Does God Really Expect Us To Be Gentle? permalink

[Apostle Paul]

Does God Really Expect Us To Be Gentle? permalink

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task. Now the overseer must be…not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. – 1 Timothy3:1-3

Some have said that spiritual leaders should be held to a higher standard, and I think I know what they mean, but the statement is not accurate. The standard is the same for everyone – but the level of accountability to that standard is different according to levels of responsibility.

This passage in 1 Timothy 3 is one often used to determine qualifications to serve as pastor or some other position of authority and responsibility in the body of Christ. However, when we look at each issue that is mentioned here it can be clearly seen that this should be the norm for all believers.

What do you think - does the Lord expect us to be gentle; and if he does, how do we accomplish that?

Be Blessed

 

[Lewis]

Yes the Lord does expect us to be gentle, but the Lord also raises up warriors, that can get nasty to accomplish the task at hand.

 

[JohnEboy1983]

Jesus flipped over tables and drove out the money changers. I dont think there is any gentle way to do that and Jesus was held on the highest standard of all.

 

[justvisiting]

Does God Really Expect Us To Be Gentle? permalink

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task. Now the overseer must be…not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. – 1 Timothy3:1-3

Some have said that spiritual leaders should be held to a higher standard, and I think I know what they mean, but the statement is not accurate. The standard is the same for everyone – but the level of accountability to that standard is different according to levels of responsibility.

This passage in 1 Timothy 3 is one often used to determine qualifications to serve as pastor or some other position of authority and responsibility in the body of Christ. However, when we look at each issue that is mentioned here it can be clearly seen that this should be the norm for all believers.

What do you think - does the Lord expect us to be gentle; and if he does, how do we accomplish that?

Be Blessed

Honestly, I do believe spiritual leaders should be held to a higher standard. Look at what Jimmy Swaggart did to his ministry. As Moses was not allowed into the promised land...merely for striking a rock in anger ...instead of speaking to it. Why? The closer you are to God...the more He expects...same as Elijah (a man of great faith)...he ran from just one fight (Jezebel)...and God turned his ministry over to Elisha. Sound harsh. When God gets that close to you...he expects a lot more.

Just remember. A reputation can be built in a lifetime...and destroyed in a day, so may God make you that person that is solid in the faith.
As for whether a minister, or deacon should be gentler. It's probably the best first choice...but
1 Corinthians 12:31  But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.
...love (1 Cor 13)
Are there times for rebuke...of course...but remember...you may want that person to come back for a visit, so don't overdo it. I think it's better to be known as a compassionate, concerned Pastor...as opposed to a harsh judge. The best way to be, is sensitive to the Spirit to the situation at hand.