How can we practically apply 1 Timothy 5:17 in our church community? Setting the Verse Before Us “Elders who lead well are worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching.” (1 Timothy 5:17) Why This Command Still Speaks • The instruction is God-breathed, literally true, and binding for every church age (2 Timothy 3:16). • It safeguards the health of Christ’s body by ensuring shepherds are valued and freed to focus on the Word (Acts 6:4). Unpacking “Double Honor” • Respectful esteem — the heart attitude (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). • Material provision — the tangible support (Luke 10:7; 1 Corinthians 9:14). • “Double” underscores both aspects together, not necessarily a mathematical figure but an above-average commitment. Practical Ways to Show Respect • Speak well of elders publicly and privately; refuse gossip (James 4:11). • Follow their biblical leadership with a willing spirit (Hebrews 13:17). • Remember and quote their teaching, demonstrating it was heard and valued (Philippians 4:9). • Encourage them with notes, texts, or brief words after services (Proverbs 25:11). • Include their families in expressions of appreciation, recognizing shared sacrifice. Practical Ways to Provide Material Support • Build a line item in the budget that allows full-time elders to live without undue financial strain (Galatians 6:6). • Review compensation annually through a finance team that understands cost-of-living realities. • Give love offerings for conference fees, sabbaticals, or educational resources that deepen their preaching and teaching. • Set up a benevolence reserve for emergencies—medical, counseling, or retreat expenses. • Remember retired pastors with ongoing honoraria or housing help, echoing 1 Timothy 5:3-4 regarding widows. Guardrails for Integrity • Require plurality of elders so no single man controls funds (Acts 14:23). • Maintain transparent financial reporting to the congregation (2 Corinthians 8:20-21). • Evaluate teaching and character by the clear standards of 1 Timothy 3:1-7; if sin surfaces, follow 1 Timothy 5:19-20. Cultivating a Culture of Honor • Teach these principles from the pulpit so the whole body owns them. • Celebrate an annual “Shepherd Appreciation” month, including testimonies of life change through the Word. • Model honor in small groups: pray for elders by name, bless their households, and note answered prayers. • Encourage budding leaders—interns, lay teachers, missionaries—by practicing the same pattern of respect and support, planting future harvest. Living the Verse Together When respect and provision flow freely, elders preach and teach unhindered, souls are fed, and the church displays Christ’s design. Honoring those who labor in the Word is not an optional courtesy; it is an act of obedience that strengthens the whole household of faith. |
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