Fine Work: Church leadership matters because Jesus cares. When He restored Peter, Jesus’ thoughts were fixed on the care for His sheep (John 21:15-17). Christ loves His church (Eph. 5:25). Shepherding is an excellent work,[1] for it reflects the heart of Christ that seeks the spiritual welfare of His flock. A true overseer seeks no personal agenda or prominence. He is not the Savior, only a signpost, directing all to the only One who can save and sanctify them.[2] His work, then, is to beckon all to know, trust, love, and follow Christ.[3]

Qualified Men: An overseer is called to shepherd[4] under the direction of the Chief Shepherd.[5] He is to echo Jesus’ voice, expound His Word, and lead His people to do His will. As a steward (Tit. 1:7), he exercises a derived authority, neither independent nor absolute, but managerial. He is expected to carry out the will of his Master. He must, therefore, be “above reproach” (v2) as a man of integrity, entirely and relentlessly committed to Christ and His cause with nothing to compromise that aim. He is to be free of moral defects that can undermine this work, though he is neither sinless nor universally admired. Nonetheless, his character is to be tested (3:10), and he is to be appointed (without haste!) and serve only if he is above reproach (5:22). It is as the Lord has so prepared a man that he is fit for this fine work (2 Cor. 3:5; 1 Tim. 1:12).

[1] This is kalos (καλός), which is used to describe Christ’s virtue and excellence (John 10:11, 14). This adjective is used to describe Jesus’ works (John 10:32, 33) and our works as well (Matt. 5:16; Tit. 2:14; Heb. 10:24).

[2] The trustworthy statement of 3:1 is preceded by the preeminent trustworthy statement of 1:15-16, where Christ is the Savior of all believers (also 2:5). He, not church leaders, is the mystery of godliness (3:16).

[3] Indeed, Christ is the foundation (1 Cor. 3:11), the cornerstone (Eph. 2:20), and the vine in whom all must abide (John 15:5). As each one draws near to Him, the church is built up (1 Pet. 2:4-5; Eph. 2:21-22; 4:15).

[4] Overseers are called elders (Acts 20:17, 28; Titus 1:5-7) and they are to shepherd (Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:2).

[5] Cf. 1 Pet. 5:4; Heb. 13:20. Christ alone is the head of His church (Eph. 1:22; 4:15-16; Col. 1:18).