In Webster’s New College Dictionary, copyright 2007 a portion of the definition of “character” means the pattern of behavior; moral strength; self-discipline; fortitude; good reputation. I would like you to keep in mind these key words, as we go through this brief study on the character of God’s people.
God tells us in First Timothy 3:1-12 that a man who desires the position of a bishop or deacon desires a good work. Then the passage goes on to explain what characteristics are required to qualify to be a godly overseer. What I will be sharing in this teaching regarding these characteristics is that they are for every Christian and not just for our leaders. God is not a respecter of people and He only has one standard for all of us to follow. In short, God holds each Christian accountable for their actions and spiritual development which reflects in our character. I will be highlighting three biblical character traits that every Christian must maintain. This includes blameless, faithful and godly.
First, “blameless” means to be free from fault or sin. Once we receive Jesus as our Savior and Lord our goal should be to live according to God’s Word. Luke 1:6 gives us an example of two individuals who lived righteous and were blameless as a result of living in-line with God’s Word. Then in Philippians 2:15 we are told that we can live without fault in a perverse generation and be a light that draws others to Christ. Lastly, when we become lovers of what is good and not evil, we will be able to share with conviction the goodness of Jesus (Titus 1:7-9) and live blameless before our Heavenly Father.
Second, “faithful” means maintaining allegiance or being loyal. In Matthew 24:45-47, we are told how a faithful and wise servant is made ruler over the household. If we want to grow and be available to God to be used in His greater assignments then we will need to be faithful in the small assignments we are presently in. Then, we read in Luke 16:10-12 that a person faithful in what is least is faithful also in much and will be trusted with his own responsibilities. Those of us who continue to stand for Jesus are called chosen and faithful in Revelation 17:14. Consequently, the promises of God will manifest in our lives.
Third and last, “godly” means holy living. As a result of what Jesus did on the cross, we are told in Ephesians 4:22-24 that as Christians we are to put on and never to take off the new man created in true righteousness and holiness. And, we can do so because in Colossians 3:12-17, we are called the elect of God, holy and beloved. As the children of the Living God, we have been empowered in Jesus to live in a godly manner, we are called to holiness (First Thessalonians 4:7). When Christians live blameless, faithful and godly then we will draw others to Christ.