The qualification for an elder to be "able to teach" (1 Tim. 3:2) does not simply refer to a man's ability to captivate an audience. While the supernatural gift of teaching is essential, the content of what is taught is far more important than how it is packaged for delivery. An elder must be wholeheartedly committed to God's word so that he may be able to preach it accurately.

The truth of the Gospel is a treasure that God revealed in His time and in His way. What the Lord entrusted to the Apostles was proclaimed and codified in His word so that we might pass it on to the next generation.

The Apostle Paul referred to the gospel and all it's implications as a precious treasure that must not only be protected and proclaimed, but passed on to others. In the introduction to this little letter, we find the reason why this message is so priceless and how we can find assurance of our salvation and grace to be transformed.

Among those who claim to have the truth are many who allegedly speak for God and even use the title "apostle." How can we know someone is a genuine spiritual leader? The Apostle Paul provides a template for those who possess the qualities that are necessary in a true servant of Christ.