BIG IDEA: As the early church was growing Paul knew that he needed to establish strong leadership within the church - a leadership uneasily shaken that would care for those around them, and be attentive to the Holy Spirit's leading. The body of Christ has the same need today and Paul’s instruction in 1 Timothy 3 gives us a framework for how we are to live. 

Let's read Paul's instructions to the church in Ephesus. 

KEY SCRIPTURE:
1 Timothy 3:1-13 (ESV) 1 The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. 2 Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. 4 He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, 5 for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? 6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil. 8 Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. 9 They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. 11 Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. 13 For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

MAIN IDEA: We are all entrusted with leadership in some capacity. As a follower of Christ, God's plan for your life extends far beyond passive observation and watching others grow in their leadership. Growing in your leadership is necessary because if the Church is growing then so must its leadership. 

Let’s take a look at the qualifications of a healthy leader according to 1 Timothy 3:1-13: 

1. Good Character

A qualified leader is one whose character and reputation are well thought of within his/her community. Good leaders seek out integrity with intention.

Question: What are some examples of Godly character? 

2. Healthy Relationships

Qualified leaders work on cultivating healthy relationships within their families, especially within their marriages. As a leader, we should desire to be hospitable and care about the needs of others. 

Question: Share some ways that you can be hospitable to others. What are some ways you show love and kindness throughout the week? 

3. Capable of Self-Management

If we desire to lead others we must first be capable leaders ourselves. Being capable of self-management is not just for the leader. It is just as important for every Christ follower to be able to live slow to anger, not be addicted to much wine, and be generous of heart. 

Question: Self-management can be difficult without accountability partners. Can you share how having a leader has impacted your life in a positive way in the area of self-management? 

4. Develop Skills

A qualified leader is a student of God’s word, eager to share it with others. They are no longer immature in faith but have built their lives on a firm foundation unmoved by culture or popular opinion.

CONCLUSION: 

Now, more than ever, there is a need for those of us within the local church to aspire to grow and lead others to Christ. What are your aspirations as a believer? This week ask yourself these questions:

1. Where am I in the discipleship process?
2. Am I growing in your knowledge of the word? 
3. Is my character being refined?
4. Have I learned my gift?
5. What am I aspiring to?