Introduction

• Titus 1:5-9

• 1 Peter 5:1-4

• John 10:11

• Revelation 7:17

• 1 Timothy 3:1

Qualifications for Elders

1. General (Titus 1:5-6, 2 Corinthians 8:19, Acts 14:23)

• Men

• Appointed or congregational approved

• Above reproach

Complementarianism says that men and women are equal in dignity and value but created different with complementary functions and roles.

2.Family (Titus 1:6)

• Husband of one wife

• Children are believers

• Children are obedient

3.Personal (Titus 1:8)

• Not arrogant (head strong)

• Not quick tempered

• Not addicted to wine

• Not violent

• Not greedy

• Hospitable

• Love of good

4.Mental (Titus 1:8-9, 1 Timothy 3:1)

• Self-controlled

5.Spiritual (Titus 1:8-9)

• Upright

• Devout/holy

• Disciplined

• Word Centered

Warm-Up

• When you think of a really good leader (in sports, business, or life), what qualities stand out to you most?”

• How are those qualities similar or different from what you see in spiritual leadership?

Sermon Discussion

Read Together

Titus 1:5–9, 1 Peter 5:1–4, John 10:11

General (Read Titus 1:5–6)

• Why do you think Paul emphasizes that elders must be “above reproach”?

• In today’s culture, what does it look like for a leader to live above reproach?

Family (Read Titus 1:6)

• Why might Paul connect a man’s family life to his readiness for church leadership?

• How does this challenge or encourage you in your own family responsibilities?

Personal & Mental (Read Titus 1:7–8)

• Which of the personal qualifications (humble, self-controlled, hospitable, etc.) seems most important for leaders today? Why?

• Which one feels the most difficult to practice consistently?

Spiritual (Read Titus 1:8–9)

• Paul ends with spiritual maturity—why is being “devoted, disciplined, and holding to the Word” crucial for an elder?

• How does this apply to all Christians, not just church leaders?

Application

• Which qualification stood out to you most today—and why?

• In what area of your own life do you want to grow so you can better reflect Christ’s character, whether you’re in leadership or not?

• How can this group encourage and pray for you in that specific area this week?

Closing Thought

Spiritual leadership isn’t about position—it’s about character and Christlike example. Elders are models, but these qualities are goals for all believers as we follow Jesus, our Good Shepherd (John 10:11).