Lexical Summary epipléssó: To rebuke, to reprove, to chide Original Word: ἐπιπλήσσω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance rebuke. From epi and plesso; to chastise, i.e. (with words) to upbraid -- rebuke. see GREEK epi see GREEK plesso HELPS Word-studies 1969 epiplḗssō (from 1909 /epí, "upon" intensifying 4141 /plḗssō, "hit") – properly, to strike in a vulnerable place; (figuratively) to strike someone with sharp, insensitive (brutal) words. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom epi and pléssó Definition to strike at, to rebuke (with words) NASB Translation sharply rebuke (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1969: ἐπιπλήσσωἐπιπλήσσω: 1 aorist ἐπεπληξα; a. properly, to strike upon, beat upon: Homer, Iliad 10, 500. b. tropically, to chastise with words, to chide, upbraid, rebuke: 1 Timothy 5:1. (Homer, Iliad 12, 211; Xenophon, Plato, Polybius, others.) Strong’s Greek 1969 occurs only once in the New Testament (1 Timothy 5:1). The verb conveys the idea of striking at someone verbally—an abrupt, severe censure. Paul selects it deliberately to contrast harsh verbal blows with the respectful encouragement that ought to characterize family-like relations within Christ’s body. Biblical Usage 1 Timothy 5:1: “Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but appeal to him as to a father. Treat younger men as brothers.” The placement within a Pastoral Epistle underscores its importance for orderly church life. Though confined to this single verse, the term sits within a larger scriptural pattern that balances necessary correction (Proverbs 27:5; Luke 17:3) with gentleness (Galatians 6:1; 2 Timothy 2:24–25). Pastoral Context Timothy is a younger overseer ministering among believers who include men old enough to be his father. Paul exhorts him to avoid a confrontational style that would shame an elder publicly or undermine respect for age. Instead, Timothy must temper correction with appeals rooted in familial warmth, thereby protecting both truth and unity. Intergenerational Respect Throughout Scripture, age carries honor (Leviticus 19:32; Job 32:4–7). Paul echoes this ethic. A congregation functions as an extended household (Ephesians 2:19), so dealings with older members must mirror a son’s reverence for his father. The contrast between “rebuke harshly” and “appeal” safeguards dignity while still allowing sin to be addressed. Comparison with Other New Testament Terms for Rebuke • epitimaō (Matthew 18:15; Luke 17:3) often stresses authoritative disapproval, yet may involve restoration. By choosing 1969, Paul paints an image of a wound-inflicting reproof—something Timothy must consciously avoid with elders. Old Testament Background Hebrew wisdom warns against humiliating reproof (Proverbs 15:1; Proverbs 25:11–12). Even prophets who delivered stern messages often first framed God’s covenant love (Jeremiah 31:20). Paul’s instruction harmonizes with this precedent: correction is necessary, but the manner must reflect covenant compassion. Early Church Practice Second-century writings (e.g., The Didache 4.3) echo Paul—“You shall not rebuke a presbyter, but speak peaceably.” Respectful admonition became a hallmark of church order, preventing youthful leaders from exercising authority in a domineering way (1 Peter 5:3). Theological Implications 1. The image of God in every believer warrants speech that edifies rather than tears down (James 3:9–10; Ephesians 4:29). Practical Application Today • Church leaders should differentiate between firm doctrinal stand and personal disrespect. Illustrative Scripture Passages Proverbs 27:5 “Better an open rebuke than hidden love.” Galatians 6:1 “Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness.” 2 Timothy 2:24–25 “A servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing. He must gently instruct those who oppose him.” In light of these texts, 1 Timothy 5:1 stands as a clear directive: truth must never be sacrificed, yet the messenger’s tone must mirror Christ’s own meekness, especially toward those worthy of double honor. |
    |