Learning on the Way
Sermon Summary
This sermon explores the critical importance of biblical leadership within the church, drawing from Paul’s instructions to Titus regarding the appointment of elders in Crete. Using the example of Gregory of Nazianzus, a reluctant but faithful church leader, the sermon emphasizes that effective church leadership is grounded in Scripture (Doctrine), produces Christ-like character (Action), and is maintained through healthy relationships (Discipleship). Paul’s qualifications for elders focus on character over perfection, requiring men who are “above reproach” – not sinless, but consistently trustworthy and committed. The sermon warns against being “woodens” (rigidly literal interpreters) while maintaining that church leaders must be saturated in God’s Word and able to teach sound doctrine.
Key Points
Church leadership must be grounded in Scripture as the foundation for all ministry
Elders must be “above reproach” – consistently trustworthy, not sinless perfection
Leadership qualifications emphasize character, family commitment, and doctrinal soundness
The congregation plays a vital role in praying for, supporting, and holding leaders accountable
Effective leadership requires both knowledge of God’s Word and the ability to teach and apply it
Leaders are broken men in need of grace, not idols to be worshipped
Small Group Questions
The sermon mentions Gregory of Nazianzus, who initially ran away from church leadership because he understood its demands and dangers. What does this teach us about the weight and responsibility of spiritual leadership? How should this affect our prayers for church leaders?
Paul instructs Titus to find men who are “above reproach” rather than sinless. What’s the difference between these two standards? Share about a leader (church or otherwise) whose consistency and trustworthiness earned your respect, even though they weren’t perfect.
The sermon warns against being “woodens” – Christians who interpret Scripture so rigidly that they miss the bigger picture and leave no room for grace. Can you think of an example where understanding context and intent is crucial for properly applying a biblical principle?
In verses 7-8, Paul lists both vices to avoid and virtues to pursue in church leadership. How do these qualities reflect the fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5? Why is it significant that these character traits come from the Holy Spirit’s work rather than human effort?
The sermon emphasizes that congregation members should pray for leaders, hold them accountable, extend grace to them, and remember their families. Which of these four areas do you find most challenging, and why?
The sermon concludes with the discipleship chain: Jesus entrusted Paul, Paul entrusted Titus, Titus entrusted the elders, and the elders entrust us. How does understanding this chain of spiritual responsibility change your perspective on your role in the church?
Key Verses
Titus 1:5-9, Galatians 5:16-25, 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Acts 6:1-7
Application On The Way
This week, choose one of the four ways mentioned in the sermon to support church leadership: (1) Pray specifically for your pastors and elders, asking them what they need prayer for; (2) Build an accountability relationship with a church leader; (3) Extend grace when leaders fall short of expectations; or (4) Show care and support for a leader’s family. Take concrete action in one of these areas and reflect on how it impacts both you and your church community.
Want to Go Deeper
Additional Scripture Passages:
1 Timothy 5:17-20 (Honoring and disciplining elders)
Hebrews 13:7, 17 (Submitting to spiritual leaders)
1 Peter 5:1-4 (Peter’s instructions to elders)
Acts 20:17-35 (Paul’s farewell to the Ephesian elders)
1 Corinthians 4:1-2 (Leaders as stewards of God’s mysteries)
James 3:1 (Greater judgment for teachers)
Ezekiel 34:1-16 (God’s heart for shepherding His people)
Personal Reflection Questions:
Consider Paul’s statement that an overseer is “God’s steward” (Titus 1:7). What does it mean for church leaders to be stewards rather than owners of God’s house? How should this perspective shape both how leaders lead and how congregations respond to leadership?
The sermon mentions that effective leaders need both knowledge of God’s Word and the ability to teach and apply it. Reflect on your own spiritual growth: Are you more naturally drawn to learning doctrine or to practical application? How can you develop in the area where you’re weaker while using your strengths to serve others?