Dictionary of Bible Themes: 7759 preachers, qualifications for

7759 preachers, qualifications for

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Dictionary of Bible Themes » 7000 God's people » 7700 Leadership and the people of God » 7754 preaching » 7759 preachers, qualifications for

Those entrusted with the task of preaching must ensure that their lives are in line with their message. They must be of good character and conduct, be consistent in all they teach and do and be accountable to others.

Preachers must be of good character

1 Timothy 4:12 See also 1 Thessalonians 2:9-10; 1 Timothy 4:16; 2 Timothy 2:20-26; Titus 2:7-8; James 3:1 That the judgment is based on character, and not just on teaching, seems clear from the references to guarding the tongue which follow.

Preachers must practise what they preach

Matthew 23:2-4 See also Romans 2:21-23; Galatians 2:11-14

Preachers must be accountable to others and to God

Mark 6:30 pp Luke 9:10 See also Acts 14:26-27; Acts 21:17-19; Galatians 2:1-2

Preachers must not look for honour for themselves

Mark 12:38-40 pp Matthew 23:5-12 pp Luke 20:45-47 See also Acts 14:11-15; 1 Corinthians 3:5-6; 1 Thessalonians 2:3-6

Preachers must not look for personal gain

2 Corinthians 2:17 See also Acts 20:33-35; 2 Corinthians 11:7-9; 1 Thessalonians 2:6-9

Preachers must be people of integrity

2 Corinthians 4:2 See also 2 Corinthians 1:12; 1 Thessalonians 2:3-6