Ethical Misconduct among Nigerian Church Leaders in the Context of 1timothy 3: 1 - 7

Abstract

The character of uncorrupted virtue, especially in relation to truth and fair dealing is expected from ministers of God. The Pastoral Epistles attached unequivocal importance to ministerial integrity in terms of godly character, holiness, blamelessness, and skillful hands that are consistent. The life of integrity enhances the credibility and effectiveness of a minister. The number of ministers of God in Nigeria today who meet this expectation is very few. Many Church leaders thrive on corruption, some take advantage of the psychology of an average Nigerian who is always in search of miracles and wonders, they exploit their followers financially and materially. Preaching the Gospel has become a business venture to a large extent. The paper attempts a re-appraisal of the relevance of the apostolic precepts in the Pastorals, with regards to the obligations of bishop and deacons, to the Nigerian context through a re – reading of 1Timothy 3:1-7. The state of ministerial integrity in Nigeria was examined and the paper concluded that adopting and enforcing the qualities required of Church leaders and Overseers in the Pastorals in the selection and appointment of ministers today will help the Nigerian Church redeem her battered image and raise persons of good moral characters and virtues as Church leaders.

Keywords: Ethical Misconduct, Church leaders, 1Timothy 3:1-7, Nigeria