TITUS 1:5–9
For this reason I left you in Crete, that you would set in order what remains and appoint elders in every city as I directed you, namely, if any man is above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe, not accused of dissipation or rebellion. For the overseer must be above reproach as God’s steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain, but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict.
1 TIMOTHY 3:1–7
It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil. And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
REQUIREMENTS
Men who are interested in pursuing admission into the REPC must meet the following requirements:
- Have a solid foundational knowledge of the Bible (both Old and New Testaments) and pass an English Bible Exam administered by the REPC during the admissions process.
- Have earned an undergraduate degree
- Have not been divorced nor remarried
PASTORAL LEADERSHIP & CARE
Because the REPC is focused on training godly men to be pastors of local congregations, it is not merely academic performance that makes a student eligible for graduation. A student will be assessed throughout his years of training in his character, knowledge, and skill in exercising pastoral leadership and care. A student must demonstrate competency in all three areas to be eligible for graduation and recommendation for ordination. The REPC does not offer accredited degrees. Summary transcripts are maintained of student progress and performance.
CHARACTER
Students must demonstrate a godly character and a strong sense of responsibility in every sphere of his life, especially toward the local church.
KNOWLEDGE
Students must demonstrate both a personal understanding of and the ability to communicate the core Biblical doctrines and ministry principles.
SKILL
Students must show they are able to lead and work with all types of people.
WIVES & FAMILIES
Pastors’ wives and families are critical to ministry. Wives of married students will receive development and encouragement throughout the training process. They will also be expected to serve and lead in ministry. An ongoing assessment of the family’s fitness for ministry will be included in the assessment of the student’s progress and eligibility for graduation.