Let's accentuate the positive

We are studying the qualifications for a man to be an elder in the New Testament church. We've seen some "negatives," or things that the elder should NOT do. Now, let's look at positive character traits that Paul mentions to Titus:

Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. (Titus 1:8)

 First, an elder must be hospitable. What does that mean?

The Greek word used here literally means "a lover of strangers." This is a quality that every Christian should strive for, but it's especially necessary for elders. 

Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. (Romans 12:13, NIV)

Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. (I Peter 4:9)

Many of us have visited a church for the first time and realized that the people there are indifferent to new folks. They almost appear selfish as they greet their friends and yet are aloof from newcomers. Hospitality means that we take an interest in others - a genuine interest - and we try to make them feel welcome and "at home."

Secondly, an elder must love what is good. Instead of spending his time (and filling his mind) with the filth that is on the television and the internet, he fills his mind with what Paul advised:

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. (Philippians 4:8)

The third quality in our focus verse is translated "self controlled" in the NIV. In the NKJV, it is translated "sober minded." In a different place, the NASB translates the same word as "prudent." 

An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, (I Timothy 3:2)

This means to be of a sound mind, to be a temperate person. This is especially in the sense of not being impulsive. The self-controlled man is not swayed to extremes by emotion. He doesn't "go with his impulses" that could be sinful or harmful. A self-controlled person is level-headed, and lives with God's priorities in mind.

These qualities that we are studying are necessary in the folks we choose to be elders in the church congregation. But aren't they important in our own lives, too? 

You bet they are!

Believers should strive to be hospitable....

Do not neglect hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it. (Hebrews 13:2, NASB)

To fill our minds with what is good.....

Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. (Colossians 3:2)

And to be self-controlled.....

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, (James 1:19, NIV)

We'll study more of these "positives" tomorrow.