Definition: For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Titus 1:7. It’s a really important part of understanding what a bishop is meant to be! Here's the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, this verse describes a bishop as someone who is perfectly and honestly dedicated to God. Let’s unpack it word by word: “For a bishop must be blameless…” – This means a bishop should always be honest and trustworthy. They shouldn't have any serious mistakes or scandals that could bring shame to the church. Think of it like a leader who is always acting in good faith. “…as the steward of God” - This is a really interesting comparison! A steward manages a household, making sure things are running smoothly and correctly. Bishops are seen as responsible for guiding and leading the church – essentially, they’re entrusted with the spiritual well-being of the community. They're in charge of things that impact the whole group. “not selfwilled…” - This means a bishop shouldn't be driven by their own desires or impulses. They need to be guided by God and the will of the church, not their own wants. It’s about being controlled by something bigger than them. “…not soon angry…” – A bishop should always remain calm and thoughtful, not react with anger or outbursts. They need to be patient and understanding. “not given to wine…” - This refers to a bishop shouldn't indulge in excessive pleasure or excitement. They shouldn’t let their own enjoyment cloud their judgment or actions. “…no striker…” – A bishop shouldn't use harsh punishments or displays of anger. They need to be gentle and compassionate. “not given to filthy lucre” - This means a bishop shouldn't be obsessed with wealth or material things. They should focus on spiritual matters, not accumulating riches for themselves. It’s about prioritizing the good of God and the church over personal gain. In short, Titus 1:7 is saying that a bishop needs to be a truly righteous, honest, and disciplined leader – someone who is dedicated to serving God and guiding the church with integrity and humility. Why is this important? This verse highlights the crucial role of leadership in the Church. It emphasizes that bishops are entrusted with spiritual responsibility and must walk in a way that reflects God's character. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points further? Give an example of how this principle applies in practice?