Titus 1:5-9
5 “For this reason I left you in Crete, that you would set in order what remains and appoint elders in every city as I directed you, 6 namely, if any man is beyond reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe, not accused of indecent behavior or rebellion. 7 For the overseer must be beyond reproach as God’s steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not overindulging in wine, not a bully, not greedy for money, 8 but hospitable, loving what is good, self-controlled, righteous, holy, disciplined, 9 holding firmly the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict it.”
Appoint elders: Titus seems to have been, primarily, an administrative pastor. There is no indication that he taught the congregation though this could have certainly been the case.
Beyond reproach…children who believe: Paul wants Titus to find people who truly know Jesus. This relationship will be expressed through righteous living at home as well as in the world. This is seen in Paul’s admonition to find someone who is married to one woman and consequently not a polygamist. Those who know Jesus will have lives characterized by His fruit and not deeds of the flesh.
Hospitable, loving: Love is the single characterizing trait of the Christian. Consequently, elders ought to be examples of how Christ’s love can shine through believers.
Exhort in sound doctrine: Elders must be well-versed in the New Covenant otherwise confusion will spread in the congregation. Those who lead the church need to have a crystal-clear understanding of God’s grace and have good theological boundaries.
