1 Timothy 5:17-22

Giving Proper Honor to Elders

Elders rule, or direct the affairs of the church, under the chief shepherd, Jesus Christ (1 Peter 5:1-5). They should not be forced to earn their living as well. Any elder who did a good job in tending the flock would be worthy of double honor and especially those who also were involved in preaching and teaching the word. Remember, we saw in 1 Timothy 5:3 that the word “honor” suggests respect and temporal relief. Paul goes on to cite Deuteronomy 25:4 to prove elders should receive pay. The same verse was used by Paul in reference to a preacher's right to be supported in the preaching of the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:1-14). Clearly, it could be said elders are worthy of financial support when they labor as overseers of the flock (1 Timothy 5:17-18).

Anyone in a position of leadership is subject to criticism. Paul made it plain that the man of God is not to listen to those who would accuse an elder of sinful actions, unless the incident can be confirmed by two or three witnesses. Actually, this is the respect which is due any brother (Matthew 18:15-17) and it is certainly due an elder. When a leader is found in sin, he must be rebuked just like any other member. Rebuking a leader shows that all are equal under Christ and should cause all Christians to fear violating God's will. Paul solemnly charged Timothy in the presence of God, Christ and the faithful angels who serve God.

Remember, some angels were involved in rebellion (Judges 1:6; 2 Peter 2:4). Other references make it clear that angels observe things going on in the church and with Christians (Luke 15:10; Hebrews 1:14; 1 Corinthians 4:9). Since God is no respecter of persons, anyone who is hearing charges against one of His people should also be unbiased (Acts 10:34). The man of God cannot afford to favor someone just because they are good friends or are part of the same clique. In fact, he should not become a part of a clique for that very reason (1 Timothy 5:19-21).

One can lay hands on a man because he is accused (Acts 4:3). This could be a reference to accusations against an elder, in which case, the latter part of the verse would go on to require Timothy to go ahead and rebuke those who had been fully proved to be in sin. However, the laying on of hands may also refer to the appointment of elders (compare Acts 13:3; 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6). It was certainly the job of an evangelist to appoint elders in every church (Titus 1:5).

If this is the meaning here, the last part of the verse would indicate the process of selecting elders should be carefully carried out. Timothy would not want to have been a part of placing a man in the office of a bishop who was wicked when such could have been known if the time to check things out had have been allowed (1 Timothy 5:22).