What does the Bible say about the qualifications for elders?

In Titus 1:5-9, the Apostle Paul instructs Timothy to appoint elders in every church, detailing essential qualifications for these spiritual leaders. The emphasis is on their moral character; they must be blameless, which means they should be above reproach and cannot be justly accused. Additionally, they should be the husband of one wife, which points to the necessity of faithfulness and commitment in marriage. Significant attention is given to the family life of these elders, as having faithful children—those who are trustworthy or even believers—is also a critical aspect of their qualifications.

Elders are described further as being self-controlled, not given to anger, not violent, and not greedy for dishonest gain. Instead, they are to be hospitable, lovers of good, upright, holy, and disciplined. The qualifications serve not merely as a checklist, but as a comprehensive view of the character expected of those who lead God’s flock, ultimately pointing to Christ as the perfect standard of blamelessness and righteousness.