Insightful Musings on theScriptures

by

Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67

Good morning, nice people.

Becki and I just completed a little walk/jog again. It had been raining previous—but we faced little more than the feeling of moist air.

I did more truck graphics yesterday than I had expected—so that ate into my time at repairing the mill. I worked on it last evening till around 8:30pm and have it acceptably readjusted and ready to weld the blade guard plate back to the blade guide arm. I had to bend it back in shape. I’m sure you’re interested in all this detail—and would be offended if I didn’t impart it.

Before bed, we processed more apples—enough to complete a load in the food dryer. This is the first year we’ve gone to drying. It’s a very nice way to preserve that wonderful resource.

Have a great day. Love, Dad/Ray.

Reading this chapter could prompt one to reason, “This is not relevant for me personally—after all I’m not a pastor (overseer) or a deacon (church leader).” Hey—just a minute! Let’s understand that we have here a list of exemplary qualities to look for across the spread of Biblical Christianity (The Church/ The Body of Christ) that make one eligible for official positions of church leadership. After all, everyone is a leader—even faulty ones. These are, in fact, standards that should be upheld and pursued by all. I think it is appropriate to affirm that GOD DOES NOT EXPECT OR DESIRE MORE OF PASTORS AND DEACONS THAN HE DOES OF YOU AND ME.

In order for us to grade ourselves against this checklist of qualities presented here by Paul, I will simply list the main ideas, putting some entries in my own words. Please bear in mind that this is not intended to be a guilt trip. Think of as a goal trip. To be sure, we can all confess to some sad violations in our past—but we are in error to allow our past to dictate our future.

• RESPECTABLE TRACK RECORD.
• NOT GIVEN TO EXTREMES.
• SELF DISCIPLINED.
• HOSPITABLE.
• GOOD BIBLE TEACHER.
• NOT A BOOZER.
• NOT A FIGHTER.
• NOT ARGUMENTIVE.
• NOT MONEY HUNGRY.
• NOT A SWINDLER.
• GENTLE.
• GOOD FAMILY MANAGER.
• EXEMLARY SPOUSE.
• HAVING OBEDIENT CHILDREN.
• MATURE IN THE FAITH.
• FREE FROM PRIDE.
• GOOD REPUTATION IN COMMUNITY.