He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. (Titus 1:9)
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. (2 Timothy 4:2)
Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. (1 Timothy 3:8)
so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. (Ephesians 4:14)
- What is the expectation of solid teaching?
- How can you tell if they have the “right stuff”?
- Do they actually instruct from Scripture?
- Do they have the “backbone” to rebuke and correct -- and do so with soundness but also with grace and relational strength?
- Are they able to take a stand and do so in the face of conflicting ideas and discomfort, or are they “double tongued” and seek to please?