What is the meaning of 1 Timothy 5:22?

Do not be too quick

Paul’s first caution is against haste. When a local church recognizes new leaders or commissions workers, rushing can create more problems than it solves (1 Timothy 3:6; Acts 13:3).

• Slowness gives time to observe character, as “the sins of some men are obvious… but others appear later” (1 Timothy 5:24–25).

• Scripture values proven faithfulness over charisma (Luke 16:10; Proverbs 25:19).

• Waiting allows the body to pray and discern together (Acts 6:6).

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in the laying on of hands

This act symbolizes public endorsement and the granting of responsibility (Acts 6:6; 1 Timothy 4:14).

• It is more than ceremony; it signals agreement that the candidate meets the qualifications listed in 1 Timothy 3:1-10 and Titus 1:6-9.

• Laying on hands too freely cheapens the office and confuses the flock (Acts 20:28).

• A careful process protects both the church and the individual from undue pressure or pride (1 Peter 5:5-6).

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and thereby share in the sins of others

Endorsing someone unfit links the church—and especially the one who approves—to that person’s failures (2 John 11).

• Joint participation in ministry means joint accountability (Galatians 2:9; Philippians 1:7).

• Approving a false teacher or immoral leader harms believers and dishonors Christ (Revelation 2:14-16).

• Refusing partnership with unrepentant sin is an act of love, not judgmentalism (Ephesians 5:11).

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Keep yourself pure

Personal holiness guards both the minister and the message (1 Timothy 4:12; 2 Timothy 2:21-22).

• Purity involves doctrine (1 Timothy 6:3-4) and lifestyle (James 1:27).

• Ongoing self-examination and repentance are essential (Psalm 139:23-24; 1 John 1:9).

• By staying pure, a leader models the gospel he proclaims (Philippians 2:15).

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summary

Paul urges Timothy to move slowly in recognizing leaders, because public endorsement joins the endorser to the endorsed. Careful evaluation, prayerful discernment, and steadfast personal holiness protect the church, honor Christ, and keep the servant of God unstained.