“Paul’s First Letter to Timothy — On Establishing Order in the Churches, Practically Speaking! — Part 2"

Paul here emphasizes again how necessary it was for the truths of the mystery and specifically the mystery of godliness to be taught.  Those elders that labored in the teaching of that doctrine were to be honored well.  But, to underscore this teaching to Timothy, the apostle adds to the gravity of the situation by writing here that there are heavenly observers of Timothy’s oversight of the assembly. Then, perhaps considering that this exhortation might be somewhat overwhelming, he adds here that he should not forget to take care of his own personal physical needs.  Finally, concluding his guidance in the selection of elders and “widows indeed”, he adds that since some sins are hidden for a time, it is best not to select someone for those offices until they are well proven in ministry first.  Since there was surely going to be opposition to these godly and wise principles, Timothy is told that he must separate publicly from some, as difficult as that might be.  Separation is practically difficult but sometimes necessary.  Amen.