1 Timothy 5 (link to reading)
Scripture: 1 Timothy 5:19-20 Commentary: Paul was deeply aware of opposition to the ministry. He had already spoken of the need to guard the congregation from the reproach of slanderers (cf. 3:2, 7), and would do so again (6:1). Here he stipulated the procedure for separating valid accusations from false ones. It is the venerable approach of both the Old Testament (cf. Deut. 19:15) and the New (cf. Matt. 18:16; John 8:17; 2 Cor. 13:1), wherein an accusation should be considered only if two or three witnesses swear to it. When such accusations would then prove to be true, Timothy was to rebuke the offenders publicly, that is, before the entire congregation. In this way the remaining members could take warning (lit., “have fear”). Fear of the discipline of God, in this case administered through the congregation, is a healthy thing in a Christian, especially for those in places of leadership. Modern congregations that ignore church discipline do so at the peril of both the offender and themselves. Litfin, A. D. (1985). 1 Timothy. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures (Vol. 2, p. 744). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books. Application: Paul's instructions to Timothy are to protect leaders from being falsely accused of wrongdoing. Hence the two or three witnesses needed to confirm their misbehavior. Although verse 20 isn't applicable anymore, churches need to have a plan to discipline wayward leaders. Prayer: Lord, help us to discern how to apply Your instructions...
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