You can’t escape it: a Christian’s conduct matters…greatly. Christ’s reputation is on the line, and nonbelievers are watching. This makes God’s “gamble” seem crazy—that sinful, Spirit-filled people are called to lead His church. Is it any wonder then that He decrees that His leaders be above reproach? Not at all. In lesson seven we looked at the first two verses of 1 Timothy 3 and seven character qualities every overseer must demonstrate. In this lesson, we’ll explore verses 3–7 and seven more character traits. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Paul continued to set forth in plain, uncomplicated language the non-adjustable, non-alterable essentials of God’s standard for church leadership.