Foundations of Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG07

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F O U N D A T I O N S O F C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

G. The history of the Church demonstrates the need for pastors and churches to congregate, not merely as individual congregations, but in association with others.

1. For fellowship and like-minded identity

2. For support and financial aid

3. For outreach and mission efforts

III. Calling and Criteria for the Bishop Office

But deacons should remember that the Lord chose apostles– that is, bishops and overseers. But apostles appointed for themselves deacons after the ascension of the Lord into heaven, as ministers of their episcopacy and of the church. ~ Cyprian (c. 250, E), 5.366., Ibid., p. 72.

A. The biblical qualifications for a bishop, 1 Tim. 3.2-7; Titus 1.6-9

1. Spiritual qualifications

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2. Family qualifications

3. Character qualifications

B. Jesus as the standard for exercising oversight: the Shepherd and Bishop of our souls, 1 Pet. 2.25 Jesus is the standard by which we understand the exercising of oversight and authority. It is not done on the basis of coercion and domination, but willing, eager, and loving oversight for the sake of protection, provision, and peace.