The only credible way to lead is by modeling behavior through actions. A leader who professes to be a Christian should live as Christian. This is the model Paul noted in Titus 1:7–9. An overseer (leader) must be above reproach. A Christian leader is to be self-controlled and self-disciplined as defined in Scripture. This suggests that leaders should be seeking to live in agape love, which is serving God’s purpose in others. Accordingly, this implies that leaders are not to be self-centered or self-serving.
Combining the traits of overseers given in Titus 1:7–9 and 1 Timothy 3:1−7, one can develop a more comprehensive list of traits for ekklesia (church) leaders.
My friend Dennis Peacocke teaches that the qualifications for ekklesia leaders should be the qualifications for all leaders. This is a high standard but an excellent one and worthy of consideration. Following is a list of leadership traits:
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Leaders display strong godly character.
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Leaders are biblically trained to discern the will of God.
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Leaders model the truth.
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Leaders encourage alignment with the will of God.
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Leaders teach truth and refute error.
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Leaders are passionate.
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Leaders serve willingly and sacrificially.
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Leaders are appointed not self-appointed.
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Leaders have C4 (calling, character, capability, and commissioning).
Sound (godly) leaders are needed in every jurisdiction—the family, ekklesia, workplace, and civil government. Only Christianity provides guidance for how to lead well, because in God’s universe only his values and principles produce enduringly good results.
Here is your business tip. Godly leaders are self-governed under God’s principles. They are overseers who serve God’s purpose in the various jurisdictions (family, ekklesia, workplace, and civil government) to which they are assigned. They display a lifestyle marked by biblical leadership traits found in passages such as 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. The purpose of godly leaders will always be to lead individuals and organizations into alignment with God’s will in accordance with God’s ways and timing. And their only motive will be to bring glory to God.
