The Character of the Christian

Cruciform Quick

by Tim Challies

D.A. Carson has pointed out that the list of qualifications for elders is “remarkable for being unremarkable.” Why? Because these traits are repeated elsewhere as qualities that ought to characterize all believers. Are you growing in godliness? How would you even know? A good place to begin is understanding and imitating the character qualifications the Bible lays out for elders. While elders are meant to exemplify these traits, all Christians are to display them. And, with just one exception, each of them is related to character. Join me as I explore the Bible to consider how we can better exemplify the highest Christian virtues. As we consider the character of the Christian, we will spur one another on to love, good works, and Christlikeness. --Tim Challies

Genres: Christian Living

56 pages, Paperback

Published December 4, 2017

About the author

Tim Challies is a leading evangelical blogger. A self-employed web designer, Tim lives in the outskirts of Toronto, Ontario with his wife and children.

Reviews

[Rodrigo Santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excelente livro sobre as características daqueles que almejam ser líderes (presbíteros/bispos/pastores). O autor vai trabalhar cada característica encontrada nas listas de 1Tm, Tito, 1Pe e ao final de cada capítulo temos perguntas e reflexões seguidas de orações. Um livro confrontador não somente para àqueles que almejam a liderança mas para todos os cristãos. Recomendo o estudo.

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Character of the Christian by Tim Challies is a study on the qualifications for elders as outlined in 1 Timothy 3:2-7, Titus 1:6-9, and 1 Peter 5:1-3. He is quick to clarify that the character qualifications for elders are actually God’s calling on all Christians.

Necessary Traits

The traits that Challies covers are that an elder is to be (1) above reproach, (2) a one-woman man (or a one-man woman), (3) disciplined, (4) hospitable, (5) gentle, (6) temperate, (7) generous, (8) family leaders, (9) mature and humble, and (10) respected by outsiders.

With each chapter, Challies explains why each trait is necessary in the life of the Christian as well as what it should look like in our lives. He often quotes from other godly men, such as MacArthur, Piper, Anyabwile, and Strauch.

Straightforward and Clear

Out of all of the Cruciform Quick booklets I have read and reviewed, this one was the most straightforward. At just over 50 pages, it can be used as elder training material or a simple personal study.

But this doesn’t mean it isn’t applicable or practical. Self-evaluation questions and prayer points are included at the end of every chapter, making this resource more valuable than any simple Bible study or commentary.

Christ as my Prize

After reading this booklet, I am convinced of the character I should display in my own life. I am convicted for where I fall short, specifically in the areas of discipline and gentleness. But I am challenged to pursue them, and encouraged to look upon Christ as my prize.

I received a media copy of The Character of the Christian and this is my honest review.

[Alex Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book on the character of the Christian. Challies emphasizes the qualifications of Elders as outlined in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus. He then shows how the rest of the scriptures call every Christian to those character qualities save a few. Therefore, every Christian, not just pastors should be those who are, by God’s grace growing in these areas.

Short chapters. Each chapter has wonderful questions and points of prayer to help apply what we’ve learned.

I think this would be a great read for a new believer to grow in their understanding of who Christ calls them to be in character while also equipping them with what they should see evident in the lives of their elders/ pastors.

[Reyna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Este libro pequeño es uno que cualquier persona debería leer desde su adolescencia o juventud, simplemente para conocer lo que se espera del carácter del cristiano y del obrero del Señor. Es un pequeño pero útil resumen de cómo va la vida creciendo y madurando con el tiempo y lo que se espera que un hijo de Dios viva y enseñe.

[Kevin VB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Un libro que todo cristiano debería leer.

[Jonathan Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick read: this is a good little book. I can’t wait to give it away!! I know a bunch of people who will like it like I did. Recommended