April 10
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CONCERNING ELDERS
17 The elders who lead well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. 18 For the Scripture says, “YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE IT IS THRESHING,” and “The laborer is worthy of his wages.” 19 Do not accept an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses. 20 Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning. 1 Timothy 5:17-20
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In this letter of Paul to Timothy, he explains to him matters concerning the elders. In verses 17-18, talks about compensation for the position of elders. In verse 17, the phrase “worthy of double honor” can be translated as worth of double wage or salary. He specifically talks about an elder’s role at preaching and teaching. Elders here includes pastors, wardens, deacons and all others in leadership in the church. Notice how Paul raises up the work of a preacher or a teacher. Since they are handling the word of God or truth, it involves study, preparation and a bigger responsibility in bringing the truth to the body of Christ. Just as a teacher in school prepares the lesson plan ensures that understanding and learning becomes possible, so does the preacher and teacher of the word. There are many people who thinks that ministers and church leaders shouldn’t get a salary and instead the donations should only go to the poor or needy. In this letter, Paul justifies the need for these hardworking elders to be compensated too. After all, they also invest time and energy and work in bringing truth to the body.
In verses 19-20, Paul tackles the issue when elders are accused of an offense, a sin or wrongdoing. He talks about the importance of two or three witnesses. Once again, Paul refers to Deuteronomy 19:15 that says that one person is not sufficient to put a charge for an offense but needs two or three witnesses to establish such offense. He also gave a guideline to follow in case these elders continue to sin. They have to be rebuked in the congregation so that it will be something that will instill fear to sin.
It is sad to know that a lot of churches do not follow these guidelines for elders. It almost seems like these Elders basis for work is just like the regular world system. It is now a novelty to see the church deal with sin especially if it is done by the leaders. That is why there is so much authority abuses ongoing now in many churches. What a shame it is for the people of God not to address these very important issues.
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REFLECTION
• Why do you think Paul clearly spoke of the importance of addressing sin?