What does 1 Timothy 5:23 reveal about Paul's concern for Timothy's well-being? Text of 1 Timothy 5:23 “Stop drinking only water and use a little wine instead, because of your stomach and your frequent ailments.” Paul’s Personal Care for Timothy • Paul knew Timothy’s specific health issues—“your stomach” and “frequent ailments.” • He offered a concrete, actionable remedy, not a vague “I’m praying for you.” • Shows the intimacy of their relationship: Timothy was “my true child in the faith” (1 Timothy 1:2). • Reflects Paul’s broader pattern of concern for coworkers (e.g., Epaphroditus in Philippians 2:25–27). A Holistic View of Ministry • Scripture affirms we are body and spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:23). Paul ministered to both. • By addressing Timothy’s physical needs, Paul modeled that caring for the body supports effective ministry (cf. 3 John 2). • Acts 3:6 shows supernatural healing; 1 Timothy 5:23 shows ordinary means—both under God’s sovereignty. Balance: Freedom without Excess • Paul condemns drunkenness (Ephesians 5:18; 1 Corinthians 6:10), yet he commends “a little wine.” • Demonstrates Christian liberty rightly used: medical, moderate, purposeful. • Counters ascetic tendencies (“forbidding to marry, abstaining from foods,” 1 Timothy 4:3) that neglect God’s gifts. Practical Wisdom in Action • Water in the ancient world was often impure; diluted wine killed bacteria and eased digestion. • “A little” signals restraint—Paul guards Timothy from overindulgence while encouraging self-care. Implications for Church Leaders Today • Shepherds must guard their own health to serve well (Acts 20:28). • Congregations can follow Paul’s example by offering tangible help, not merely spiritual clichés. • Recognize God works through both prayer and practical medicine (Proverbs 17:22; Luke 10:34). Summary 1 Timothy 5:23 highlights Paul’s affectionate, hands-on concern for Timothy’s well-being. He valued his protégé’s health, recommended a sensible remedy, and modeled a balanced Christian approach to the body—affirming that faithful service to Christ involves caring for both soul and stomach. |
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