1 Timothy 3:1-13 [NLT] Big Idea Paul builds a healthy church on a foundation of qualified leaders. 1 Timothy 3:1–7 (NLT) This is a trustworthy saying: “If someone aspires to be a church leader, he desires an honorable position.” God’s church family is designed to be led & loved by men & women who exercise his delegated authority as: Selected elders — shepherd overseers, not executives. Elected & selected deacons — servant leaders, not directors. Baptized members — gifted givers, not customers. Look for: & respected members. spiritual & credible influence. ability to . 2 So a church leader must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife. He must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation. He must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach. 3 He must not be a heavy drinker or be violent. He must be gentle, not quarrelsome, and not love money. Inspect their : inside their home. among their community. 4 He must manage his own family well, having children who respect and obey him. 5 For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church? 7 Also, people outside the church must speak well of him… 12 A deacon must be faithful to his wife, and he must manage his children and household well. CAUTION 1 Don’t rush them because a prideful will disgrace & damage the church’s reputation. 7.. . so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the devil’s trap. 6 A church leader must not be a new believer, because he might become proud, and the devil would cause him to fall. CAUTION 2 Before appointing anyone, closely them. 1 Timothy 3:10 (NLT) Before they are appointed as deacons, let them be closely examined. If they pass the test, then let them serve as deacons. What now? Find your place to contribute. Pray for our leaders.