S – ⁷ As an overseer of God’s household, he must be blameless, not arrogant, not hot-tempered, not an excessive drinker, not a bully, not greedy for money, ⁸ but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, righteous, holy, self-controlled,

Titus 1:7–8 CSB

O – Commentary:

The need for blamelessness is repeated from verse 6. The reason this quality is so important is that an overseer serves as a steward of God. Damage to a church leader’s reputation is damage to God’s reputation. Then Paul resumed his list with five vices which must not characterize an overseer: (4) not overbearing, not arrogant and self-willed; (5) not quick-tempered (cf. James 1:19–20); (6) not given to much wine; (7) not violent (cf. 1 Tim. 3:3 for this and the previous vice); (8) not pursuing dishonest gain (cf. comments on 1 Tim. 6:5).

1:8. Whereas verse 7 lists negative characteristics to avoid, verse 8 lists positive qualities to be sought. The elder must be (9) hospitable (cf. 1 Tim. 3:2); (10) one who loves what is good (cf. Ps. 15); (11) self-controlled, or temperate and sensible (sōphrona; cf. Gal. 5:23; 1 Tim. 3:2; Titus 2:2, 4); (12) upright (dikaion, “just”); (13) holy (these last two are, with blamelessness, two of the characteristics Paul himself had modeled [cf. 1 Thes. 2:10], but neither is mentioned in 1 Tim. 3); and (14) disciplined (in contrast to the vices of Titus 1:7; cf. 1 Tim. 4:7–8).

“Titus,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scripture

A – The church requires leadership that will bring oversight, vision and action steps.  These leaders must be gifted to lead.  Just as important, is their ability to model the character of God in their leadership and oversight.  It reflects on them personally, the church and God.  This is a good “checklist” for one to use in determining a person’s qualifications to lead in the church.

R – Heavenly Father, you are worthy of our praise and honor.  We desire to model your heart and character in our words, thoughts and actions.  We are not perfect and we will sin and make mistakes.  Yet, we can choose your ways consistently and embody your character for others to see and follow.  Thank you for your grace and mercy as we lead others.