Instructions for Various Church Members Part 2 BIG IDEAS: 1. What is an Elder 2. False Accusations 3. Appropriate Honor 1 Timothy 5:17-6:2 17 Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine. 18 For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer is worthy of his wages.” 19 Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses. 20 Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear. 21 I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing with partiality. 22 Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people’s sins; keep yourself pure. 23 No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities. 24 Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later. 25 Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden. Honor Masters 6 Let as many bondservants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed. 2 And those who have believing masters, let them not despise them because they are brethren, but rather serve them because those who are benefited are believers and beloved. Teach and exhort these things. The Greek title episkopos-- an overseer, a man charged with the duty of seeing that things to be done by others are done rightly, any curator, guardian or superintendent, elder, or overseer of a Christian church. Acts 20:28 Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. The traditions of Judaism are also referred to as tēn paradosin tōn presbyterōn, or “the traditions of the elders” (Matt 15:2; Mark 7:3). The term presbyteros can also refer simply to the elderly or aged population (1 Tim 5:1–2). The term episkopos was a more common Greek way of indicating someone in charge of civil or religious matters. The term presbyter was common in Hellenistic (Greek-speaking) Judaism to refer to the honored older members of the community who often served as local community leaders. 1 Timothy 5:19 19 Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses. 20 Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear. God lays down this law as applicable to all cases, that they shall be decided "by the mouth of two or three witnesses." (Deuteronomy 17:6; Matthew 18:16.) 20. Those that sin rebuke before all. Deuteronomy 19:18-19 – The judges shall inquire diligently, and if the witness is a false witness and has accused his brother falsely, then you shall do to him as he had meant to do to his brother. So you shall purge the evil from your midst. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 – We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. Hebrews 13:7 – Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. 1 Timothy 5:21-25 21 I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing in partiality. 22 Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people's sins; keep yourself pure 23 No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities. 24 Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later. 25 Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden. This is a reminder that judgment is certain. It is also a reminder to be careful and discerning. Not everyone is who they appear to be. Even in the visible church there are occasional wolves in sheep’s clothing. Leaders should be cautious about promoting people too quickly. Accountability and transparency are also important to maintain. 1 Tim 6:1 Let as many bondservants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed. 2 And those who have believing masters, let them not despise them because they are brethren, but rather serve them because those who are benefited are believers and beloved. Teach and exhort these things. TAKE AWAYS: Do not begrudge those in authority over you Do not jump to a guilty verdict just because a charge is made Do not make life harder for those who strive to impart God’s word