That thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God. — 1 Tim 3:15
It is important that those who occupy official positions in the Church shall be worthy, and that they fittingly “behave themselves in the house of God.” The minister should be without reproach. His name should be like ointment poured forth. He should be “temperate,” using the word in its broader sense; he should have his temper, his speech, his feelings, his appetites, under complete mastery. He should be soberminded – not long–faced, but serious, reverent. He should be apt to teach; gentle, not contentious. He should be well spoken of among those who are outside.
Other church officers are under scarcely less holy sanctions. Deacons must be grave, not double–tongued, not greedy for money, holding faith in a pure conscience, and living a blameless life. Holiness becometh God’s house, and all who are active in its affairs should be reverent, sincere, and worthy examples to all who look to them as their leaders. Unfit behavior in official church members hurts Christ’s cause.