A true shepherd cares for his sheep. Cares enough that when they are in trouble he lays down his life for them. Perhaps not physically in most cases (after all it is just an analogy), but as a good friend of mine is fond to say, "You can lay your life down in prayer," intercessory prayer.
How is that for a qualification for an elder? What do you say Pastors?
- above reproach
- the husband of one wife
- temperate
- prudent
- respectable
- hospitable
- able to teach
- not addicted to wine or pugnacious
- but gentle
- peaceable
- free from the love of money
- manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity
- not a new convert
- ...
- and
- ...
- Concerned for the sheep
