above reproach

What does this mean? A Christian leader is to be above reproach. Getz says "reputation." Thus, "above reproach" means "cannot be accused of any wrong doing," which means "having a good reputation." Does this make sense to you?

For you Greek scholars out these, the term is anepileepton (the double "ee" stands for an eta). This term is used in classical Greek literature to describe something secure, not open to attack. It describes one's character as blameless. (Liddle, Scott Lexicon) Literally, it means "not failing or falling short."

OK. This is quite a high standard, and I am already wondering if it is possible to attain such a standard. Be blameless? Sound like something only Jesus can do.

Getz tries to lessen the blow by stating that this is "a summary quality, the result of living out the other qualities mentioned in these two lists." (25)

Getz goes further to suggest that Acts 6:3 also points to this "good reputation." However, the phrase in Acts 6:3 is "men full of the Holy Spirit." So, Getz, I think rightfully, associates being blameless with being filled with the Holy Spirit. However, his interpretation of the passage is lacking (using KJV I think).

He does make a great point about the selection process. The Hellenistic Jews were told to select men from among you--some of your own men--people that you know--and have proven themselves in your midst. The Jerusalem leaders shows great wisdom by not forcing their opinion into the matter. Instead, they allow this unique expression of Christianity to form their own leadership with men who have already proven themselves as leaders before they were asked to become official leaders.

I think we get it wrong in our churches when we ask those without giftedness or discipline or actions to lead. Sometimes smaller churches really struggle with this because we have some many needs for leadership and so few people who have the time, energy, desire, or calling to fill the leadership positions.

I have always wondered--do you keep plugging in people into positions, or do you cut back positions until God raises up leaders?

My experience has shown me that plugging people into positions is a great risk--some are not ready or mature enough to handle the people they will be working with. Some burn out to soon. Some want titles of leadership, but don't have the discipline or spiritual maturity to lead in a Christian setting. In addition, we keep supporting ministries that have no leaders and that the church at large is unwilling to take charge of.

However, just try cutting back ancient programs of the church and see what happens to your base of support in the church.

But I digress . . . .

If you are one of those who has a desire to lead in the church, then developing a good reputation--without holes or weakness--is scriptural and important. We cannot say, "I will do whatever I want. If others don't like it, it is their problem." If we submit to God, then we also submit for the sake of his people--many of whom are weaker. Thus, we limit our freedom for the sake of the body.

Let your name and your reputation be well-known. It would help if part of reputation was that we are "full of the Spirit."