Qualifications of Leadership

1 Timothy 3:1–13

At The Church on the Square, we believe church leadership is a sacred trust. Elders (overseers) and deacons are called not by ambition, but by character. Their qualifications are clearly given in Scripture, serving as both a standard and a safeguard for the household of God.

Qualifications of Elders (Overseers)

Our elders carry the responsibility of spiritual oversight. They devote themselves to prayer, teaching, and the ministry of the Word. Their charge is to shepherd the people of God, uphold sound doctrine, and ensure that every aspect of church life reflects the authority and beauty of Christ.

“This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of overseer, he desires a good work.” — 1 Timothy 3:1

An overseer must be:

• Blameless, the husband of one wife

• Temperate, sober-minded, and self-controlled

• Of good behavior and hospitable

• Able to teach sound doctrine

• Not given to drunkenness or violence

• Not greedy or quarrelsome, but gentle and content

• A man who rules his own household well, with children who respect his leadership

• Spiritually mature—not a novice—so that pride does not lead to downfall

• Well-spoken of by outsiders, maintaining a good testimony before the world

Such men are entrusted to shepherd the flock, care for the church of God, and lead by example in holiness and humility.

Qualifications of Deacons (Servants)

Our deacons serve the church in practical ways, meeting needs, maintaining order, and ensuring that mercy and service flow freely within the body. Their work strengthens unity and allows the elders to focus on prayer and the ministry of the Word.

“Likewise, deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience.” — 1 Timothy 3:8–9

A deacon must be:

• Reverent and trustworthy in speech

• Temperate and content, not greedy for gain

• Grounded in the faith with a pure conscience

• Tested and found blameless before serving

• Faithful in marriage, ruling well his own household

Deacons who serve faithfully gain “a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.” Their service supports the ministry of the elders and strengthens the unity of the body.

In all things, leadership in Christ’s Church is measured not by status, but by faithfulness.
Those called to lead must first be servants—men whose lives model obedience, integrity, and love for the Lord Jesus Christ.

Together, these men serve under the headship of Christ and the authority of Scripture, leading not as rulers, but as examples to the flock.

“Whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all.”
— Mark 10:43–44