Are you qualified to be a pastor?

Relationship with Christ – I Tim. 3:6, I Tim. 5:22, I Sam. 13:14

• Is the individual a fully-devoted follower of Christ?
• Do they pursue Jesus passionately?
• Are they recent converts or have they had time to prove their faith is true?

Character – I Tim. 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9

• Does the individual have a solid character?
• As examples, do they possess self-control? Are they gentle, hospitable, upright, holy, and disciplined?

Conduct – I Tim. 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9

• Are their actions reflective of someone who is fully-devoted to Christ?
• As examples, is their marriage solid? Are they a good parent to their children?
• Are they quarrelsome and overbearing? Do they have a quick temper?

Bible Knowledge – Titus 1:9, Col. 1:28-29

• Does the individual have a good knowledge of God’s Word to defend the Christian faith and encourage people to take steps in spiritual maturity?
• Could the person identify false doctrine?
• Note that I Tim. 5:17 suggests that not all elders are preachers and teachers.

Sense of Responsibility – Acts 20:28, Heb. 13:17

• Does the person reflect a concern for the spiritual well-being of the entire church, “all the flock”, or just ministries or sub-ministries within the church?
• Is there an appreciation for the responsibility and accountability God has given the individual to watch over the entire church?

Heart for People – Acts 20:28, I Pet. 5:2, Ez. 34

• Does the person reflect a concern for helping lost people find Jesus?
• Does their heart beat fast when discussing ministry opportunities to reach people who haven’t heard about Christ?

Calling – I Pet. 5:2, Gal. 1:1, Eph. 1:1

• Does the individual consider this to be an appointment from God or from men?
• Is there a clear sense that this is God’s calling? Is it God’s will?