1 Timothy 5:17-22

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. ²¹ I solemnly exhort you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels, to maintain these principles without bias, doing nothing in a spirit of partiality. ²² Do not lay hands upon anyone too quickly and thereby share responsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin.”

Verse 17: Paul highlights the importance of honoring and supporting elders who faithfully serve in leadership roles within the church. He emphasizes that those who diligently carry out their responsibilities in overseeing the affairs of the church are deserving of double honor. This recognition is particularly significant for those who are engaged in the important work of preaching and teaching, as they play a vital role in equipping and edifying the body of Christ.

Verse 18: Paul supports his instruction on honoring elders by referencing two Old Testament passages. The first passage, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,” illustrates the principle of not restricting the provision for those who are laboring. The second passage, “The worker deserves his wages,” emphasizes the principle that those who work should receive fair compensation for their efforts. These references serve to reinforce the importance of recognizing and valuing the work of those who serve in leadership roles within the church.

Verse 19: Paul advises Timothy to exercise caution when considering accusations against elders. He instructs him not to entertain or give credence to accusations unless they are supported by multiple witnesses. This requirement ensures that accusations are thoroughly examined and prevents false or unfounded accusations from causing harm or division within the church. By adhering to this principle, the integrity and reputation of elders are protected, and the church maintains a fair and just environment.

Verse 20: Paul instructs Timothy that if elders are found to be engaged in sinful behavior, they are to be rebuked publicly. This public rebuke serves as a warning to others, demonstrating the seriousness of sin and its consequences. It also helps to maintain the purity and integrity of the church, ensuring that leaders are held accountable for their actions. Notice that God’s grace is never an excuse for sin. To the contrary, God’s grace teaches us to live righteously. Sin, therefore, needs to be taken seriously.

Verse 21: Paul charges Timothy, in the presence of God, Christ Jesus, and the elect angels, to faithfully adhere to these instructions without showing favoritism or partiality. This emphasizes the importance of upholding justice and fairness in the church, treating all individuals, including elders, with equal regard and holding them accountable to the same standards.

Verse 22: Paul advises Timothy to exercise caution and discernment when appointing individuals to positions of leadership within the church. He warns against hasty decisions in ordaining or commissioning individuals, as this could lead to sharing in their sins or being implicated in their wrongdoing. Timothy is urged to maintain personal purity and integrity, ensuring that those entrusted with leadership roles are qualified and committed to upholding the teachings of Christ.