Titus 1:5 This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you— 6 if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. 7 For an overseer, as God's steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, 8 but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. 9 He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.
In his brief letter to Titus, Paul wastes no time getting to the point to remind him of his calling. Paul seems to say just as much or more than in his letters to Timothy - possibly Titus was more mature and less likely to be intimidated. He was there to establish leadership. It was not an easy task. In making a list of qualifications Paul begins: if anyone..., which begs the question: "What if there isn't anyone?" Fortunately Paul was confident they were there - Titus just needed to sort them out. It was not a worldly search for the "strong leader," but a thorough search for an honest, humble, hospitable man in pursuit of holiness, who also felt called to help others in their spiritual journey. He must be able to "stand his ground" in love.
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