The List Begins

1 Timothy 3:2
An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, …

The word "overseer" refers to one who is in charge (has inspection rights) of an organization or person. The use of "bishop" in some translations appears to be a reliance on the Latin translated to English. So what are the qualifications of overseers.

1. Above reproach. This seems to eliminate everyone at the outset. "For all have sinned…" and are, therefore, reproachable. Is Paul/God demanding perfection for those in leadership? No. We know that's quite impossible.
   Considering the context of church leadership the "above reproach" requirement seems best applied to matters of biblical doctrine and immorality of all sorts. We're all sinners.
   So, does the leader keep a short account?
   Is he willing to confess whenever necessary?
   Can he be accused publically for a major downfall?
   Does he accuse others of a sin of which he himself is guilty?
   Does he teach accurately from the Scriptures?
   Is he above reproach?
   
2. The husband of one wife. balance is the key here, I believe. Too strictly enforce this and the church must say that no single man may serve in leadership. Too loosely apply this and the church could end up (and literally end) using an unmarried philanderer.
   The best application seems to be to ascertain whether or not the man leads a lifestyle that demonstrates he is in love with and committed o his wife. If he's been married before, he should be willing to acknowledge the sinfulness of his divorce and willingness to obey God's commands concerning marriage and faithfulness.
   
3. Temperate. the King James says "vigilant." Watchful. A sober person is better able to watch over and care for himself, his business, and his actions. An intemperate person cannot have the presence of mind to properly guard and care for a congregation.
   
4. Prudent. immediately following temperance is self-control. Once a difficulty or problem is identified through watchfulness does he apply sound judgment to the situation?
   
5. Respectable. the root of this Greek word means orderly. Whereas prudent refers to of the mind, here ones actions are in view. One who is the rude, clownish, or ill-mannered should not rule over God's people.
   
6. Hospitable. the Greek word derives from two others: brotherly love and alien or foreign. So, one who loves to care for strangers.
   
7. Able to teach. teaching is a gift of the Spirit. Paul says the leader should be so gifted, having the strong desire to share that which he learns. He is one who is ready to communicate effectively God's Word to others. Because of the possibility of one-on-one counseling, the ability must be demonstrated during informal situations as well as the classroom.
   
8. …
   

Pressing on, Ed