What Does God Look For?
For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.
What does God look for in a leader? The apostle Paul listed the character traits Titus should look for in those to be appointed elders in the Church of God in every city in Crete (Titus 1:5).
This list sets high standards for the Christian leader, whether now or in the soon-coming Kingdom of God (Revelation 5:10). Most of the characteristics Paul told Titus to look for in Church leaders are applicable to all Christians striving to grow in Christian character. This list provides goals for all to strive toward in service to God and fellow man.
For background for the passage, see our article on the book of Titus. For more about preparing to serve in God’s government, see our section on the “Kingdom of God.”
