4. What does it mean to “be irreprehensible”?

⁴ To qualify as an elder, you must “be irreprehensible,” that is, have a good reputation in the congregation because your conduct is above reproach. In addition, you should have “a fine testimony from outsiders.” Unbelievers may criticize your Christian beliefs, but they should have no valid reason to question your honesty or conduct. (Dan. 6:4, 5) Ask yourself, ‘Do I have a good reputation both inside and outside the congregation?’

6. What are some ways to be “hospitable”? (Hebrews 13:2, 16; see also picture.)

⁶ You demonstrate that you are “hospitable” when you do good things for others, including those outside your circle of close friends. (1 Pet. 4:9) One reference work describes a hospitable man this way: “The door of his house​—and of his heart—​must be open to strangers.” Ask yourself, ‘What is my reputation when it comes to welcoming visitors?’ (Read Hebrews 13:2, 16.) A hospitable man shares what he can with visitors, including lowly ones of little means and hardworking servants, such as circuit overseers and visiting speakers.​—Gen. 18:2-8; Prov. 3:27; Luke 14:13, 14; Acts 16:15; Rom. 12:13.

8. What are some ways you show that you are “moderate in habits” and “self-controlled”?

⁸ If you are “moderate in habits” and “self-controlled,” you are balanced in all areas of your life. This includes avoiding extremes in eating, drinking, dress and grooming, and recreation. You are not a slave to the trends of the world. (Luke 21:34; Jas. 4:4) You are levelheaded, that is, you remain calm even when provoked. You are “not a drunkard”; nor do you have a reputation as a heavy drinker. Ask yourself, ‘Does the way I live show that I am moderate in habits and self-controlled?’

9. What is involved in being “sound in mind” and “orderly”?

⁹ If you are “sound in mind,” you carefully evaluate matters based on Bible principles. You have thought deeply about these principles, and that has given you insight and understanding. You do not jump to conclusions. Instead, you make sure that you have all the necessary facts. (Prov. 18:13) As a result, you make balanced decisions that reflect Jehovah’s thinking. If you are “orderly,” you are organized and punctual. You are known for being reliable and for following direction. These qualities will contribute to your fine reputation. Let us now discuss how to meet the Scriptural qualifications in setting a good example as a family head.

15. Must an elder be an excellent public speaker? Explain.

¹⁵ The Scriptures clearly state that overseers must be “qualified to teach.” Does this mean that you must be an excellent public speaker? No. Many well-qualified elders, though not the best public speakers, teach effectively in the ministry and on shepherding calls. (See “qualified to teach” study note on 1 Timothy 3:2; compare 1 Corinthians 12:28, 29 and Ephesians 4:11.) Even so, you do need to work constantly at improving your skills as a teacher. How can you become more effective?