Last week we began a series on the five levels of Christian maturity found in the books of Timothy and Titus. We discussed the first two levels of novice and deacon.
The third level of maturity in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 is elder maturity. The traits of elders in 1 Timothy 3 not already mentioned for deacons are: above reproach (have blameless character), self-controlled, hospitable, able to teach, gentle, not quarrelsome, not a recent convert, and have a good reputation with outsiders. Titus 1:6-9 gives us these additional traits: not overbearing (arrogant), not quick-tempered, loves what is good, upright, holy, disciplined, and able to refute those who oppose sound doctrine.
We notice that the traits for elder maturity amount to a higher standard of godliness. This maturity level requires blameless character, self-control, gentleness, love of good and holiness. One at this level may slip occasionally, but they consistently display these qualities. One who gives in to speaking angry and harsh words in their home would not have elder maturity. A business owner who does not pay their employees well would not have elder maturity. One who is not humble enough to listen to another’s point of view and give appropriate weight to it would not qualify. Neither would one who consistently watched ungodly shows.
It may be surprising to consider the traits that are not mentioned for elders. There is no mention of being a good worshipper. There is no mention of being someone who often shares the gospel with unbelievers. There is no mention of any exercise of manifestly supernatural gifts. There is no mention of certain types of experiences of God’s presence during prayer. There are only two mentions of traits related to knowledge: able to teach and able to refute false teachers. There is no allusion to popularity, such as gathering large numbers to weekly home meetings or any other type of numerically “successful” ministry. And, of course, there is no mention of any kind of worldly success – business or financial or otherwise – though they should have a good reputation with “outsiders”.
Thus, the traits that we often venerate in our congregations are not the traits that Scripture picks for those who would be spiritual leaders in our congregations. In Scripture there is much emphasis on holiness and treating others well. These descriptions of maturity remind us of the Sermon on the Mount or 1 Corinthians 13.
Therefore, it is important to ask ourselves if our conception of spiritual maturity is influenced more by Scripture or by what is currently popular in our congregation. Are we overvaluing knowledge? Are we overvaluing supernatural ministry? Are we overvaluing speaking skills? Are we overvaluing general charismatic personality traits? Are we overvaluing worldly standards of success in other occupations? Have we veered off the path? What do we need to do to get back on the path of maturity?
As you examine these levels of maturity it is also important to ask yourself if you are developing the traits for each level. How well do you practice the traits? Does it seem that you possess the character that the bible associates with your responsibilities in your congregation or ministry?
In Part 3, in next week’s post we will look at arch-elder and architect-level maturity.
MORE ON STAGES OF GROWTH
View our post on stages of growth relating to how one experiences the inflow of God’s grace here.
Two of our posts explain the fivefold way of growth. Part 1 is here and Part 2 is here. The fivefold way describes a repeating pattern of growth that occurs in all growing believers. This is very helpful in understanding how God is working in your life.
You can also study Scripture on this topic in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 where Paul explains the qualifications for elders (overseers) and deacons.
For books on stages of growth see Bruce Demarest’s Seasons of the Soul and Thomas Ashbrook’s Mansions of the Heart.
