Ep 162 – 1 Timothy 5:17-25

We'll be covering First Timothy chapter five, verse 17-25 in today's episode. It entitled, "Choose Wisely" because Paul is going to give Timothy some wise counsel regarding the selection of elders. He has already addressed their qualifications, now he's going to deal with Timothy's relationship with these men and how he was to lead them as they led the church. Paul knew from personal experience that leading the local church was a lot of work – more than enough for one man to accomplish. So, the selection of elders was of vital importance. And their ongoing spiritual well-being was not to be assumed or taken for granted. Leaders will inevitably have detractors and those who would undermine their authority. Criticism comes with the territory, but because these men are ultimately appointed by God, they were to be treated with dignity and respect. They were to be viewed as servants of God as much as Timothy and Paul were. Their qualifications were vitally important and not to be overlooked, but neither was their spiritual well-being and right to respect and honor.