standing before his own house well, having children in submission, with all dignity. Indeed if someone does not know how to stand before his own house, how will he care for an assembly belonging to God? 1 Timothy 3:4–5
A pastor is to know how to stand before his own house. This emphasizes a leadership role marked by active responsibility. It is not a term that implies ruling over others. Rather, he is to be one who takes deliberate responsibility and exercises attentive care over his household. Although having children is not a requirement for holding a pastoral position—for the household encompasses more than just the children—if he does have children, they are to be in proper submission to his position in a manner that is dignified. They are to understand that they are not in a position of authority and should therefore align themselves under those who are, doing so in a respectful and reverent manner.
Within the assembly of God, the pastor also stands before the saints and is responsible for their care in spiritual matters. This includes confronting wolves, addressing false teachers, and correcting fellow saints who are acting disorderly. An assembly of God is not to be a place of chaos, but one of order, so that the saints may be edified and built up.