The Work of a Preacher (1 Timothy 5)

By Ron Thomas     As I continue with the theme “the work of a preacher” from 1 Timothy, let us note the exhortations in chapter 5. First, Timothy was to conduct himself with members of the congregation in an “above-board” way. There is a proper response to be given to those older within the congregation, as well as those who are younger. With regard to the first age-group, there is respect because of the maturity of their years. To those who are younger, perhaps similar in age, they are peers and not to be dismissed as if they were not one’s equal.     A special note with regard to preachers and women. Preachers may be well-informed about matters pertaining to God, but that does not mean they may not struggle with similar weaknesses found in other males. In general, he must take precautions, even extra precautions (if needed) to keep himself from falling headlong into sinful thoughts and actions. Paul admonished the brethren in Corinth, and he was mindful of the same admonition with regard to himself.     And every man that striveth in the games exerciseth self-control in all things. Now they do it to receive a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, as not uncertainly; so fight I, as not beating the air: but I buffet my body, and bring it into bondage: lest by any means, after that I have preached to others, I myself should be rejected (1 Corinthians 9:25-27, ASV).     Second, it is understood that the church of our Lord is the body of Christ, and as the body of the Lord, it is also understood the church is a family. Does the church have any obligation to care for those in need or, in other words, to family members? It does, and Paul gives counsel to the brethren concerning that. To begin, family members need to take care of their own. But if any widow hath children or grandchildren, let them learn first to show piety towards their own family, and to requite their parents: for this is acceptable in the sight of God. ... But if any provideth not for his own, and specially his own household, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever (5:4, 8).     Next, if family members fail, refuse, or are no longer around, then the church must give attention to the needs of others, doing what they can. The admonition of the Holy Spirit toward brothers in the Lord is for them to get out and work (cf. 2 Thess. 3:7-13), but with women there is a different approach. During the era of the New Testament, women were caretakers of the home; they shaped the world in the raising of the children. Consequently, they did not make a living outside the home. If they lose their primary means of support (family), the Lord allows for them to be cared for by the local congregation. Yet, the Lord set forth parameters to which we must heed.     Finally, from our lessons learned in 1 Timothy 5, let us understand that men who serve as elders (overseers) are worthy of great respect. There are some men who serve / work with the local congregation in a full-time capacity, as teachers. For those who do, they deserve not only great respect, but congregational support (livelihood) in the work they do. On the other hand, if a man who serves as an elder sins, is he disqualified? He is not. If he continues in that sin without penitence, he is no longer qualified to serve as a leader in the Lord’s local church.     These are just a few lessons to glean from 1 Timothy 5, but these lessons are to be taught by the authority of the Holy Spirit. This is a work of a preacher.

- Ron Thomas preaches for the Church of Christ at Rio Grande in Bidwell, OH. He may be contacted at etsop95@gmail.com. Visit the congregation’s website at: https://www.churchofchristatriogrande.com