“Therefore an overseer must . . . not be a recent convert” 1 Timothy 3:6
The language here is clearly Christian.
The spiritual leader is not to be a recent convert to Christianity.
But the reasoning behind this virtue could stand for any leadership position.
” . . . he may become puffed up with conceit”
The wording implies that an immature leader can become conceited, high minded, proud, haughty.
Leadership titles and positions are heady stuff.
In this case, spiritual authority granted too soon can be a snare to the immature.
It can lead to a person’s spiritual downfall. It can lead to the downfall of many who follow.
It is easy to rush people into leadership positions.
Sometimes we can do so based on gifting or force of personality.
Sometimes we do so out of shear need. Who will lead if they don’t?
I believe Paul lists this virtue towards the end because he has already highlighted what the maturing leader looks like.
Look for the other virtues already listed. Are they present and growing?
If so, it is most likely because the emerging leader is not a recent convert.
There are not shortcuts to mature leadership whether spiritual in nature or not.
Grow into virtuous leadership.
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