Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church · Sermon study sheet

Look for a Willing Servant

Bryan Schneider · July 29, 2023

1 Timothy 3:1-7

sharonrpc.org/sermons/look-for-a-willing-servant

Summary

The desire for church oversight must be a deep, durable aspiration to serve, not bossiness, manipulation, popularity, or a love of authority.
True aspiration differs from arrogance because it accepts discipline, listens to instruction, works with a team, and already serves others.
A willing elder should be marked by humility: poverty of spirit, meekness, sober self-evaluation, attentive listening to God, and practical service.
Humility also appears in receiving rebuke, correcting others gently, depending on God in prayer, and extending mercy as one who has received mercy.
A prospective elder needs biblical wisdom—knowing what is right, how to bring people toward it patiently, when to seek counsel, and which conflicts truly require a stand.
Wisdom includes admitting ignorance, returning to Scripture, welcoming the perspective of fellow elders, anticipating consequences, and learning through hardship.
The congregation should ask what presently motivates a candidate's family, work, money, relationships, and daily choices.
The governing desire must be God's glory and the good of others, flowing from a heart that knows Christ's righteousness rather than seeking self-aggrandizement.

How does a genuine aspiration to oversight differ from ambition for control or reputation?
What present acts of service demonstrate that a man is already pursuing the work?
How do poverty of spirit and meekness shape a prospective elder's leadership?
Does the candidate listen to God's Word even when it corrects him?
How does his response to rebuke affect the way he will correct others?
What does a man's prayer life reveal about humility and dependence on God?
How does biblical wisdom join truth with patient and relational application?
Does the candidate seek counsel and work well with a plurality of leaders?
Can he distinguish a necessary stand from a needless quarrel?
What present desires govern his family, work, money, and relationships?

Aspiration: A deep and active desire for oversight that moves a man to prepare, serve, learn, and pursue the good work rather than merely admire the title.
Arrogance: Self-exalting confidence that seeks authority, praise, or control without humble service, discipline, and accountability.
Meekness: Strength governed by humility, shown in restraint, gentleness, service, and willingness to listen.
Rebuke: Correction that exposes sin or error from God's Word and must be received humbly and given gently.
Wisdom: God-fearing knowledge of what is true joined to skill in applying it rightly within real relationships and circumstances.
Counsel: Advice sought from others so that plans are tested, blind spots exposed, and decisions established collaboratively.
Chief end: The supreme purpose of human life: to glorify God and enjoy him forever.