⁹ Those qualifying for appointment as overseers demonstrate practical wisdom in their lives. If married, an overseer would be adhering to the Christian standard for marriage, namely, being the husband of one wife and presiding over his own household in a fine manner. If the overseer has believing children who are in subjection with all seriousness and are not accused of debauchery or rebelliousness, other members of the congregation can confidently approach him for counsel and advice on family life and Christian living. The overseer is also irreprehensible and free from accusation and has a fine testimony even from outsiders. No valid charge of improper conduct can be brought against him to mar the reputation of the congregation. He would not recently have been reproved for serious wrongdoing. Others in the congregation are moved to imitate his fine example and are happy to entrust their spiritual life to his care.​—1 Cor. 11:1; 16:15, 16.

¹⁰ Such qualified men are able to serve the Christian congregation in a role similar to that of the elders of Israel who were described as “wise, discreet, and experienced.” (Deut. 1:13) Christian elders are not without sin, but they are known in the congregation and in the community as upright and God-fearing men who have demonstrated over a period of time that they conduct their lives in harmony with godly principles. Their blamelessness gives them freeness of speech before the congregation.​—Rom. 3:23.

¹¹ Men qualifying for appointment as overseers show moderation in personal habits and in their dealings with others. They are not fanatics. Instead, their way of life is characterized by balance and self-control. Their moderation is demonstrated in such things as eating, drinking, recreation, hobbies, and entertainment. They are moderate in the use of alcoholic beverages so as not to leave themselves open to charges of drunkenness or of being a drunkard. One whose senses have been dulled by intoxicating drink easily loses self-control and is not in a position to watch over the spiritual interests of the congregation.

¹² Exercising oversight of the congregation requires that a man have a measure of orderliness. His good habits are reflected in his personal appearance, his home, and his everyday activities. Such a man avoids procrastination; he sees what is required and plans accordingly. He adheres to godly principles.

¹⁴ Similarly, one qualifying to serve as an overseer in the congregation is sound in mind. This means that he is levelheaded, not hasty in judgment. He has a good comprehension of Jehovah’s principles and their application. Someone who is sound in mind is receptive to counsel and direction. He is not hypocritical.

¹⁵ Paul reminded Titus that an overseer is a lover of goodness. He should be righteous and loyal. These qualities are reflected in his dealings with others and in his firm stand for what is right and good. He is unwavering in his devotion to Jehovah and is consistent in upholding righteous principles. He can keep a confidence. He is also genuinely hospitable, freely giving of himself and his belongings for the benefit of others.​—Acts 20:33-35.

¹⁶ In order to serve effectively, an overseer needs to be qualified to teach. According to Paul’s words to Titus, the overseer would be “holding firmly to the faithful word as respects his art of teaching, so that he may be able both to encourage by the teaching that is wholesome and to reprove those who contradict.” (Titus 1:9) He is able to use reasoning, produce evidence, overcome objections, and apply the Scriptures in such a way that others are convinced and have their faith strengthened. The overseer exercises such teaching ability in favorable times as well as in difficult times. (2 Tim. 4:2) He has the patience needed to reprove with mildness one who is in error or to convince a doubter and motivate him to do good works on the basis of faith. Being qualified to teach either before an audience or on a one-on-one basis gives evidence that the overseer meets this important requirement.