24/04/2022
Over the course of 3 books (Titus 1, 1 Timothy 3, and 1 Peter 5) God gives the church 17 qualifications for being a Pastor. Of those 17 only one has to do with a man's ability. 16 are determined by a man's personal life and character. Yet, one remains that is of utmost importance.
He must be one who teaches sound doctrine.
Titus 1:9 "He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it."
1 Timothy 3:2 "Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, ABLE TO TEACH,"
This doesn't mean that he must be an extraordinary communicator. One who understands inflection, alliteration, the art of presentation, or even engaging. Does it help? Sure. But that is not one of the requirements. Often times that is one way we can find ourselves being led astray, if we are not careful.
Men, for your families, I encourage you to read through the chapters I mentioned at the beginning of this post. Your Pastor will not be perfect or infallible. However, he should be one who strives to uphold and be an example of all 17 qualifications.
In our world today, there are too many who flippantly use the Bible to only get out of it what they desire. Let us be believers who desire the full counsel of the Word of God.
If your Pastor doesn't hold to sound doctrine. If he veers away from delivering the "faith that was once delivered for all the saints." (Jude) Then I would encourage you to go talk with him. Ask questions. A Pastor should always welcome someone who asks questions for the sake of ensuring we all are in line with Scripture.
