Appointing shepherds is one of the most important things a church can do. While it can be a time of joy, optimism, and promise, it can also be a dangerous time. It can be a time when factions can form, gossip can spread, people can get their feelings hurt, become envious, and make the process a popularity contest.

These dangers become realities when Christians stop following the Lord’s plan and begin binding opinions. Too often, members want to appoint men who meet their standards and qualifications.

Since we are in the middle of appointing additional shepherds, let’s consider the qualities that God says leaders should have (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9).

He desires the work.

  • He doesn’t desire to be a church “CEO” or boss. He doesn’t desire to have his ego stroked and be placed in a seat of honor.
  • He serves to serve God’s people (1 Timothy 3:1; 1 Peter 5:2). He desires to shepherd, protect, and lead the flock of the Chief Shepherd.

He is a man of godly character.

  • He is above reproach. He is a godly man against whom no evil character can be sustained.
  • He is temperate. He is a man of self-control and discipline. He knows how to reign himself in and manage his temper.
  • He is sober-minded. He is calm, levelheaded, and has good judgment. He is watchful and careful in all situations.
  • He is of good behavior. He is worthy of imitation and an example to the flock (1 Peter 5:3).
  • He is gentle. He is mild-mannered, patient, approachable, and compassionate.
  • He is just. He doesn’t show favoritism or partiality.
  • He is holy. He is devout and lives a sanctified life in Christ.
  • He is a lover of good. He loves the truth and rejoices when others walk in the truth.
  • He is not given to wine.
  • He is prudent.
  • He is respectable.
  • He has a good name among all men.
  • He is not self-willed. He doesn’t always have to get his way.

He is a teaching man.

  • He is experienced and skilled in teaching God’s word (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9). He is capable of silencing false teachers and defending the flock.
  • He is also to share God’s word both publicly and privately.

He is a family man.

  • He is devoted and faithful to his wife (1 Timothy 3:2).
  • He manages his children well and keeps them under control. His children obey and honor him (1 Timothy 3:4).
  • His wife is dignified and faithful to God (1 Timothy 3:11).
  • How he leads his family is evidence of his ability to lead God’s family (1 Timothy 3:5).

He is a spiritually mature man.

  • God allows a congregation to judge whether a man is spiritually mature enough to serve as a shepherd. He doesn’t do that with widows who seek to be supported by the church (1 Timothy 5:9).
  • Men reach levels of spiritual maturity at different times.

He is a caring man.

  • He cares about the souls of every member of the flock.
  • He is “welcoming to strangers” (1 Timothy 3:2).
  • He possesses the heart of a shepherd!

What do we need to do?

  • We need to evaluate potential elders by God’s standards.
  • We need to take our personal opinions out of it.
  • We need to trust God’s plan. God knows what is best for His people!
  • We need to remember that this is all about going to heaven. Shepherds help equip us for service and watch over our souls (Hebrews 13:17).

Conclusion:

Are you following the Chief Shepherd?