7 For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money,
not quick-tempered,
Quick-tempered is someone inclined to anger. It does not take much to make them angry. Good leaders do not operate on their emotions but are stable in their approach to those who follow them. This does not mean that leaders are to subsume burning convictions about ministry but it does preclude impulsive reaction to others.
Ja 1: 19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
PRINCIPLE:
Holding one’s temper is an important qualification for leadership.
APPLICATION:
I am glad the word “quick” is in this term. Everyone becomes angry at times. However, some have a low boiling point and continuously blow their stack. They are always uptight about something. They cannot control their emotions and exercise proper judgment in a difficult situation. They cannot see humor in anything and have difficulty in laughing at themselves.
Pr 16: 32 He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.
An angry leader feels that his goals are more important than the group. He disallows any other opinion than his own; otherwise, he becomes angry. This pastor is emotionally immature. Most of these types have an inflated view of themselves. They cannot tolerate anyone holding an opinion other than their own.
There is no place for a leader with a short fuse, who is easily provoked or irritated in God’s work. A quickly pugnacious person does not convey a godly character. The spirit of hostility toward others will cause schism and division. On the other hand, a patient pastor will help others grow in Christ.
