One of the lessons I’ve learned and re-learned in more than one church is the danger of selecting a man to serve as elder who has a history of protracted, repeated, and/or unresolved conflict. On more than one occasion I have overlooked conflict in a man’s life, reasoning either that it was justified by the circumstances, a function of immaturity that has been outgrown, or foisted upon him as the innocent party. The fact is, however, that even when circumstances or theology vindicate his side of the conflict, a man can still be a quarrelsome man. This may demonstrate itself in a lack of gentleness, a propensity to taking rigid positions when none are required, an inability to lose graciously, or simply an over-love of debate. Whatever the form it takes, quarrelsomeness is a serious impediment to effective service as an elder; unchecked it is a clear disqualification (1 Tim. 3:3).

— Michael Lawrence (b. 1966), Pastor, Theologe und Autor

Related Bible passage: 1TI.3.3

Topics: Church & Congregation, Ethical Questions, Wisdom & Understanding

Michael Lawrence

Michael Lawrence (* 1966) ist ein US-amerikanischer reformiert-baptistischer Theologe und Pastor, der nach langjährigem Dienst in Washington, D.C., seit 2010 die Hinson Baptist Church in Portland, Oregon, leitet. Er steht in Verbindung mit Netzwerken wie The Gospel Coalition und 9Marks für das Anliegen, akademisch fundierte biblische Theologie für die praktische Gemeindearbeit und Seelsorge nutzbar zu machen. Für Bibelleser bietet er Orientierung darin, die gesamte Heilige Schrift als zusammenhängende, auf Jesus Christus ausgerichtete Heilsgeschichte zu verstehen.

All quotes by Michael Lawrence (18)

Michael Lawrence

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