Young pastors, upon entering the ministry, soon discover that while performance in ministry counts, it is their character that will make the lasting difference.

As Eugene Peterson, the noted writer and pastor-theologian has expressed it, "The way you live is what qualifies or disqualifies you from leadership." What we find stressed in Scripture are not job descriptions, but an emphasis on character formation. As Peterson states it, "Leaders are not distinguished by their function or, as we might say it today, their 'gifts', but by their character." As most of us already know, Jesus highlighted the importance of living the faith, not just talking about it. Congregations desire leaders who are trustworthy and faithful as evidenced in their lifestyle. Peterson sums it up succinctly by saying, "Forget about charisma, go for character."

Seminary education as we know it, is preoccupied with imparting knowledge and interpreting its implications for the practice of ministry. We seek to influence the spiritual and ethical development of those who hear us. However, as important as it is to be competent and committed as grassroots theologians, the lasting legacy of our ministry will be evaluated by the quality of our character. One¹s character factor can never be taken for granted; to neglect its maintenance is to our peril.

This was the message the Apostle Paul was trying to communicate to young Titus who was beginning his ministry on the newly evangelized island of Crete. Paul was encouraging Titus to understand that good character lies at the heart of discipleship. Paul wanted this newly planted church in Crete not only to be nurtured in the faith, but also to be a model of Christian witness evident to all.

This is why Paul says to Titus, "Show yourself in all respects a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, gravity and sound speech that cannot be censured: then any opponent will be put to shame, having nothing evil to say of us" (Titus 2:7, NRSV).

Developing character that honors God is a never-ending task. Living the Christian life begins anew each day: we never graduate from being "Christian" and then go on to do advanced work in ministry. We are constantly in the process of becoming "Christian", as we practice forgiveness and acceptance, even when we are victimized by the shortcomings of others. Developing healthy relationships is an on-going task, which puts our churches to the test daily. Building trust and building character are interrelated. Without nurturing and encouraging both, we will lack credibility in what we teach and preach.

Paul instructs Titus and us to look beyond our transcripts of good grades and good works. Paul wants us not only to teach well, but to teach with integrity, and to maintain an attitude of gravity, that is, to avoid frivolous behavior in our practice of ministry. In other words, let¹s not display our sense of humor at the expense of others. Finally, we are called to practice sound speech that contributes to healthy and wise conversation that enriches and affirms one another¹s worth. Sound speech encourages us to be our best selves and frees us from trivial comments (those sweet nothings) that so often preoccupy our social hours, denying us authentic and fulfilling relationships.

Forming and nurturing character that extends beyond our professional persona will add immensely to the quality of our ministry to the glory of God. A sterling character will also confuse and confound our antagonists and enemies. This doesn¹t mean that we will escape the crossfire that comes from inevitable church conflicts, but character rooted in integrity, gravity and sound speech will steer us through those moments.

When evaluating your ministry, consider seriously then this character factor. For it is your character, for better or for worse, that will make the lasting difference in your ministry once your sermons and Bible studies are no longer remembered and your good works forgotten.

Note: Dr. Calian, an ordained pastor in the Presbyterian Church (USA), is president and professor of theology at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. The above was reproduced from a commencement address to graduates in May 2000.