Scripture References: 1 Timothy 5:17-25, 1 Timothy 3, Deuteronomy 25:4, 1 Corinthians 9:3-12, Luke 10:7, 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, Hebrews 13:17, Acts
Intro:
- 1 Timothy: Paul's letter to Timothy, a young pastor in Ephesus, providing guidance on church order.
- 1 Timothy 5 addresses issues concerning church leaders.
- Leadership in the church can be complex due to imperfect people.
- Acknowledge past hurts and issues related to church leadership.
Key Points:
- Leaders in Pay (1 Timothy 5:17-18):
- Elders who "rule well" (manage/direct) deserve "double honor."
- Varying roles exist within leadership teams.
- "Double honor" includes:
- Respect, esteem, and cooperation (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, Hebrews 13:17).
- Financial compensation for those directing church affairs, preaching, and teaching (Deuteronomy 25:4, 1 Corinthians 9:3-12, Luke 10:7).
- Leaders in Problems (1 Timothy 5:19-21):
- Leaders are not immune to problems, even serious ones.
- Instructions for dealing with problem leaders:
- Concerns about persistent sin should be brought to leadership.
- Public rebuke/correction may be necessary in cases of public ministry and persistent sin.
- Purpose of public correction: Fear of the Lord.
- Timothy's charge: Be impartial.
- Leaders in Placement (1 Timothy 5:22-25):
- Do not be hasty in appointing new leaders.
- Take time to discern character.
- Leaders are like trees, needing time to establish.
- Parenthetical statement (1 Timothy 5:23):
- Paul's advice to Timothy regarding wine for his stomach.
- Possible interpretations:
- Help with Timothy's anxiety.
- Countering ascetic teachings (1 Timothy 4:1-5).
Conclusion:
- Church done God's way includes leaders with mature character.
- Qualities of leaders:
- Chosen based on long-term strength.
- Still growing in Christ.
- Real people with real needs.
- Not perfect.
- Open to input but not captive to preferences.
- Not seeking wealth or power.
- Leaders have varying roles.
- Healthy examples, worthy of respect and support.
Call to Action:
- Positional repentance on behalf of leaders.
- Release forgiveness for past hurts.
- Pray for church leaders:
- For a clear conscience.
- To live honorably.
- For joy in their work.
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