NextLevel Online: Healthy Elders & Deacons

Character Qualities of Elders

Christian leaders lead first in their character. What are the Christ-Like traits of a Mature Elder?
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Character Qualities of Elders

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The vision of Ozark Christian College is to glorify God by evangelizing the lost and edifying Christians worldwide. The mission of Ozark Christian College is to train men and women for Christian service as a degree-granting institution of biblical higher education.

Classroom Instructions

Lesson
17:22Session 2 VideoSession 2 Video

  • Christian leaders lead first in their character.

  • The Bible focuses more upon their character than it does their specific tasks.

    • 1 Timothy 3:1–7
    • Titus 1:5–9
    • 1 Peter 5:1–4

  • Checklist or Portrait? Functionality of “Above Reproach”

  • Christ-Like Traits of a Mature Elder/Overseer

    • Maturity as a disciple (not a recent convert)

    • Teaching and protecting the gospel

    • Evidence of Christ’s control in their lives

      • Evidence of Christ-likeness and discipleship in the home
      • Christ-like interactions with others
      • Self-control (Spirit-controlled)
      • Motivations for leadership

    • Reputation with outsiders

Discussion Questions:

  • Do you think it is best to view 1 Timothy and Titus 1 as a checklist or a portrait of one who is above reproach?

  • How can you better emphasize the importance of Christ-like character in your elders?

  • Are you willing to practice church discipline when an elder is no longer above reproach?

Character Qualities of Elders Instructions

Lesson
17:22Session 2 VideoSession 2 Video

  • Christian leaders lead first in their character.

  • The Bible focuses more upon their character than it does their specific tasks.

    • 1 Timothy 3:1–7
    • Titus 1:5–9
    • 1 Peter 5:1–4

  • Checklist or Portrait? Functionality of “Above Reproach”

  • Christ-Like Traits of a Mature Elder/Overseer

    • Maturity as a disciple (not a recent convert)

    • Teaching and protecting the gospel

    • Evidence of Christ’s control in their lives

      • Evidence of Christ-likeness and discipleship in the home
      • Christ-like interactions with others
      • Self-control (Spirit-controlled)
      • Motivations for leadership

    • Reputation with outsiders

Discussion Questions:

  • Do you think it is best to view 1 Timothy and Titus 1 as a checklist or a portrait of one who is above reproach?

  • How can you better emphasize the importance of Christ-like character in your elders?

  • Are you willing to practice church discipline when an elder is no longer above reproach?