What Does ‘Above Reproach’ Mean In The Bible?
The phrase ‘above reproach’ appears several times in the Bible, usually in reference to leaders who are of good character and high moral standards. But what exactly does it mean for someone to be above reproach according to the Bible?
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer: In the Bible, being ‘above reproach’ means being blameless, having integrity, and living according to God’s standards.
In this comprehensive article, we will examine the meaning of ‘above reproach’ by looking at how it’s used in context in the Bible. We’ll see that it refers to being of godly character, acting with wisdom and discernment, being free from hypocrisy, and setting an example for others in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity.
Old Testament Usage of ‘Above Reproach’
Used for Priests and Sacrificial Animals
In the Old Testament, the phrase “above reproach” or “without blemish” was often used to describe the qualifications for priests and acceptable sacrificial animals. God commanded that priests must be “above reproach” or “blameless” (Leviticus 21:17-23).
This meant they had to meet certain physical qualifications – no disabilities or defects. Sacrificial animals also had to be physically “without blemish” or “unblemished” (Exodus 12:5). This showed that they were set apart and acceptable for God’s holy purposes.
This standard revealed God’s perfection and holiness. The priests acted as mediators between God and man, so they had to be sanctified and purified to approach God’s presence in the tabernacle. The sacrificial animals also symbolized purity as they temporarily atoned for the Israelites’ sins.
Overall, the “above reproach” requirement displayed how God’s people should strive for righteousness and perfection before a holy God.
Used for Godly Kings of Israel
“Above reproach” was also used to describe kings who served God faithfully. For example, King David told Solomon to walk in God’s ways and serve with “a whole heart and a willing mind” so his reign would be “blameless” (1 Kings 2:2-4).
Other kings were also described as “doing what was right in the eyes of the Lord” (1 Kings 15:5; 2 Chronicles 34:1-2). This showed they were righteous, just, and uncompromising in obeying God’s laws.
However, many other wicked kings in Israel’s history failed to meet this standard, provoking God’s judgment. The amount of ungodly kings actually outnumbered the righteous ones. Still, the “above reproach” ideal remained an important requirement for kings to be considered honorable and upright.
Overall, this phrase in the Old Testament emphasized moral purity, spiritual integrity, and wholehearted devotion to God’s ways.
New Testament Usage of ‘Above Reproach’
Qualifications for Elders/Overseers
The New Testament provides clear guidelines for the qualifications of elders/overseers in the church. 1 Timothy 3:2 states that an overseer must be “above reproach.” This Greek phrase can also be translated as “blameless” or “above criticism.”
The idea is that an elder should lead an exemplary life that gives no valid cause for accusation or slander.
In Titus 1:6-7, Paul again emphasizes that an elder must be “above reproach” or “blameless.” This quality is linked to being a proper steward of God, not self-willed, quick-tempered, given to wine, or greedy.
An elder’s personal conduct should be honorable so that his leadership brings respect to the church.
1 Peter 5:1-3 charges elders to shepherd the flock willingly and eagerly. They should set an example, not lord their authority over others. Their oversight should be motivated by genuine care for people’s souls.
In this way, when the Chief Shepherd appears, they will “receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.”
Instructions for Younger Men
Paul’s letter to Titus also includes directions that younger men should live sensibly, righteously and godly (Titus 2:6). Younger men are called to purity and self-control. They should be an example to others in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity (1 Tim 4:12).
Paul instructed Timothy, as a young man, to “flee youthful lusts” and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace (2 Tim 2:22). Guarding sexual purity is a key theme. Romans 13:13 warns believers to walk properly in the daytime, not in “revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy.”
What It Means to Be Above Reproach
Blameless and Righteous Before God
Being above reproach means being blameless and righteous before God (Psalm 15:1-2). It requires having integrity of heart and clean hands. Those who are above reproach walk faithfully with the Lord, speaking truth from their heart and avoiding slander or deceit.
They keep their promises even when it hurts and maintain trusting relationships. Though not perfect, they quickly repent of their sins and change wrong behavior when the Holy Spirit convicts them.
Integrity and Purity in Public and Private Life
A person above reproach exhibits consistency and wholeness between their public reputation and private life. They display integrity and moral purity in business dealings, community involvement, and family relationships. Their public persona does not contradict how they behave at home.
They avoid hidden sin or secret vices that would damage their testimony if exposed. Those above reproach take pains to keep a clear conscience before God and people.
Wisdom and Discernment in Judging Others
Being above reproach means having wisdom and discernment in judging others. It requires humility, patience, and compassion. Those who are above reproach are cautious about accusing, avoiding rash judgments based on circumstantial evidence. They believe the best about others until proven wrong.
At the same time, they are discerning about sin and name it appropriately after verification. They handle disciplinary matters with grace, seeking restoration not condemnation.
Speech Full of Grace
Those above reproach use words that build up rather than tear down. They speak graciously with kindness, deference, and respect even in disagreement. Their speech avoids gossip, slander, impatience, or exaggeration.
Careful not to sin with their tongue, they think before speaking, and apologize quickly for hurtful words. With humility, they receive correction and listen to understand others rather than argumentatively defend themselves.
Living as an Example to Others
Being above reproach requires consciously living as an example for others to follow. It means being a model of Christ-like behavior in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity (1 Timothy 4:12). Those above reproach know others watch their lives.
They prayerfully depend on the Spirit to help them walk worthy of their calling. Their lives back up their words. With true humility, they point others to Christ, not self. They rejoice when those who follow their example surpass them.
How to Become Above Reproach
Study God’s Word
Reading and studying the Bible regularly is crucial for learning God’s standards and growing in Christlike character (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Make a habit of daily Bible study and Scripture meditation to renew your mind and align your thoughts with God’s truth (Romans 12:2).
Useful resources include Bible Gateway, YouVersion, commentary sites, and books on spiritual growth.
Pray for Wisdom and Discernment
Ask God daily for wisdom and discernment to understand His word, make wise choices, and recognize sinful attitudes or behaviors you need to change (James 1:5). The Holy Spirit convicts believers of sin and enables them to walk uprightly. Yield to His leading through prayerful dependence.
Examine Your Heart and Motives
Regularly examining your heart and motives before God prevents harboring secret sins and exposes areas needing repentance and change (Psalm 139:23-24). Confess known sins immediately, ask forgiveness, and make restitution if necessary. Accountability partners can provide feedback on blind spots.
Be Accountable to Mature Believers
Accountability partners provide counsel, encouragement, correction, and prayer support to help believers walk above reproach. According to 2021 research, 95% of Christians who meet regularly with accountability partners maintain sexual integrity.
Seek mature believers who will lovingly challenge you to uphold godly standards.
Rely on the Holy Spirit
While personal discipline is vital, ultimately the key to living above reproach is relying on the Holy Spirit’s empowerment to align one’s desires with God’s will (Galatians 5:16-17). Through Spirit-filled believers, Christ lives His righteous, sinless life through us. Abide daily in Him.
Conclusion
Being above reproach is clearly an important biblical concept, especially for those in leadership. It means having integrity, living righteously, and setting an example for others in speech and conduct.
Though we may fall short at times, we can keep striving to become blameless by studying God’s word, prayer, accountability, and relying on the Holy Spirit. Our goal as Christians is to increasingly become above reproach for the glory of God.
