How should we honor elders who "direct the affairs of the church well"? Setting the Context “Elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.” What “Double Honor” Includes • Respectful esteem—visible, vocal appreciation (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) • Material support—fair, even generous, financial provision (1 Corinthians 9:13-14; Galatians 6:6) • Protective care—shielding them from frivolous accusations (1 Timothy 5:19) Why Their Labor Deserves Special Recognition • They “direct” the church—overseeing doctrine, discipline, worship, outreach (Acts 20:28) • They “labor in the word”—investing hours in study, prayer, and proclamation (2 Timothy 4:2) • Their faithfulness benefits the whole body—healthy leadership nurtures healthy disciples (Hebrews 13:17) Practical Ways to Show Double Honor 1. Esteem them publicly: speak gratitude, celebrate milestones, share testimonies of impact. 2. Provide consistent financial care: salary, retirement, conference costs, family health coverage. 3. Support their preaching: attend, listen eagerly, take notes, apply truth (James 1:22). 4. Guard their reputation: require two or three witnesses before hearing charges (1 Timothy 5:19; Deuteronomy 19:15). 5. Lighten their load: volunteer for ministries, offer administrative help (Exodus 18:21-22). 6. Pray for wisdom, boldness, protection from temptation (Ephesians 6:18-20). 7. Encourage rest and renewal: schedule sabbaticals, respect days off (Mark 6:31). Balancing Honor with Accountability • Honor never excuses sin—those persisting in wrongdoing must be rebuked publicly (1 Timothy 5:20). • Genuine love speaks truth for their good and the church’s purity (Galatians 6:1). Blessings That Flow from Obeying This Command • Gospel workers remain focused on teaching rather than survival (1 Corinthians 9:14). • Congregations model counter-cultural gratitude and generosity (2 Corinthians 9:12-13). • Christ is magnified when His servants are valued as He commands (John 13:35). Personal Next Steps • Evaluate: Do I view my elders as gifts from Christ (Ephesians 4:11-12)? • Plan: What tangible act of honor can I offer this week—note, meal, financial gift? • Commit: Speak well of them, stand with them, and share in their labor for the sake of the gospel. |
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