Distinctive #5: Gospel Character

If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task.

1 Timothy 3:1

The fifth distinguishing mark of a gospel-centred church is gospel character, that is, the character and competence of a Christian leader.

Most of us are not called to be an elder or a deacon, so you may wonder, What does this have to do with me? Here are three answers:

1. Discernment: What to look for
The biblical pattern is not to make people leaders and then hope that they will rise to it. It is to look for people who show the character and competence of effective leaders. What should we look for in the leaders we elect, the pastors we call, and the missionaries we send?

2. Direction: What to aim for
Every Christian should cultivate a desire for maximum usefulness to Jesus Christ. Should you do theological training? Should you be in full-time ministry? Should you serve overseas? The first things to pursue are right here in 1 Timothy. They will make you a better parent, business leader, teacher, or volunteer. These are the qualities God seeks in the life of every Christian.

Maybe you have not been able to do what you wanted to do. You would like a second chance. Jesus came to restore what was lost, and to recreate what was destroyed. What we learn here can be your future even if it has not been your past. Perhaps God will ignite a desire in you to maximise your usefulness for Christ and a passion to move in that direction.

3. Gratitude: What to give thanks for
If your church leaders follow the principles of 1 Timothy, do not take this for granted. Ask God to increase your thanksgiving for His abundant goodness in the gift of godly leaders.

How might God be prompting you to maximise your usefulness for Him?