
Originally Posted by
breadfirst
Stoomart,
Concerning "I also believe a man without children is not qualified to be an elder, as so many leadership values are obtained in managing a family", I don't see any biblical reference to that. Jesus and Paul were unmarried yet they had leadership values that were unique and different from those that married. Paul states it so clearly in 1 Cor 7:8-9.
Regarding your comment "I interpret this scripture to mean if your children are not following Christ, God is not ready for you to lead his flock", again it would be helpful to all to read 1 Tim 3:2 "keeping his children under control with all dignity (NASB)". So in principle we can take away two things. 1)Neither of the list is exhaustive and 2)Paul's intention is to ensure false teachers are not appointed as they were causing grief to so many families.
I believe what Paul is saying in Titus and Timothy is that an elder has good control over his life may it be children, alcohol, money, etc. If he does he is going to excel in church leadership.
I understand my interpretations are on the strict side, but they are based on verse 5, which I believe puts particular emphasis on family and not just false teaching:
(for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?)
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