How to Care for Elders / Pastors in the Church
(1 Timothy 5:17-25)
In a shared ministry in the church, the “elders who direct the affairs of the church… especially those whose work is teaching and preaching” deserve to be compensated. Leaders who are justly and properly accused and found guilty of any misconduct are to be rebuked publicly. The church is advised to select its elders carefully allowing the element of time to reveal the candidates true character.
1. We should RESPECT and HONOR them: (v. 17-19)
- because of their labor. (v.17)
- by proper remuneration. (v.18-19)
Application:
a) Pray for your church leaders.
b) Appreciate your pastor / elders by saying thank you, sending a card,
c) Celebrate Pastors Appreciation Month in October.
2. We should PROTECT them from unfounded accusations (v. 19)
but if charges are substantiated (v. 20) REBUKE them PUBLICLY,
without partiality nor favoritism to deter sin in the church (v.21).
Application:
a) Learn from the mistakes of Miriam and Aaron in Numbers 12 who rebelled against Moses. We must remember that the authority of God’s Kingdom flows down through the fivefold ministries in Ephesians 4:11-12 and not through one’s giftedness. A person can be more gifted than his pastor yet the pastor who stands in the office of authority is over the gifted person.
b) Learn from the rebellion of Korah, Dathan & Abiram in Numbers 16.
In God’s grace, he no longer strikes down rebellious church members
but spares His anointed ones to protect His glory.
c) Learn from the positive example of David whom King Saul wanted
dead, spared his life twice (1 Sam. 24 & 26) because David would not
lift up his hand against the Lord’s anointed.
3. We should encourage them to CARE for their physical bodies as well.
(v.23)
Application: Annual check-ups, regular physical exercise and diet, observance of day off, vacations and sabbaticals are important keys to longevity in the ministry.
4. WE should CHOOSE them:
- slowly, not hastily. (v.22)
- carefully and wisely through examination of their lives and doctrine (v.24)
