09/03/2026
SOME THOUGHTS ON THE CHARACTER OF A BISHOP (Part One)
The Apostle Paul writes:
“Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer (bishop) desires a noble task.” (1 Timothy 3:1)
On Saturday, September 5, the Global Methodist Church is consecrating new bishops. Last year, the Assembly selected me to preach this service. I’m humbled by this opportunity.
As part of my preparation to preach at the consecration service, I read the first sermon preached at the consecration of an American bishop. Thomas Coke preached it at the Christmas Conference on December 27, 1784—the bishop being consecrated was Frances Asbury. In the sermon, Coke shared ten graces he believed should be manifest in one set apart for general superintendency. I believe those graces are as relevant today as they were then.
I share the first five here for all to see:
1—HUMILITY. Coke said, “The other nine graces were like fine powder in the wind without humility.” Human nature recoils at the appearance of pride or arrogance in another person, but humility reflects a life that is fit for serving Jesus. A humble bishop is crucified to the world and the world to them, and as a result, they become clay in the hands of the Potter.
2—MEEKNESS. Coke said, “Meekness is a passive grace that reflects a ballasted soul that reflects evenness and divine serenity.” A meek bishop holds all the passions of their heart subject to Christ. They have a gracious temperament that conveys pity, compassion, and Christ-like love.
They respond rather than react in adverse situations. They are “… quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” (James 1:19-20)
3—GENTLENESS. Coke said, “Gentleness is an active grace that embodies Christian courtesy.” This grace is reflected in the words they speak—even words of reproof or correction are “dipped with oil and drop like gentle rain from heaven on the earth.” When this grace is evident, the life of the bishop makes following Jesus amiable, even in the face of the judgment of the world.
4—PATIENCE. Coke said, “Patience endures all things graciously—even in suffering and trial. They are unshaken by circumstance or reaction.” You strengthen patience the more you exercise it, making it flow like a mighty river that bears all before it, and yet, waters every meadow in its banks. When this grace is evident, the bishop smiles at persecution, thanks God for the opportunity to show the world the faith they proclaim, and perseveres until the work is done.
5—FORTITUDE. Coke said, “Fortitude is the cardinal virtue in all its strength, vigor and courage.” This grace manifests itself in the leader’s backbone, which Coke described as “an iron pillar.” This gives the bishop the ability to take the fire of the enemy as they protect the church—like a shepherd protects their sheep from wolves.
God, grant our bishops the grace—and the graces—to lead us well.
Bishop Jeff Greenway
