What does it mean to be given “double honor?”
February 9, 2023
Commentary
In this passage the Apostle Paul turns to admonitions and instructions concerning the elders of a church. To get a church operating as it ought to is more important than maintaining good schools, or electing strong officials to office, or building a sound economic base in this country; it is far more important than developing our natural resources or controlling crime. All those things are very important, but they are less important than getting a church functioning the way it ought to. History confirms that, if a church functions the way it ought, all the things above will begin to occur.
The apostle says that “those who labor at preaching and teaching,” are to be given “double honor (vv. 17-18). “Honor” (respect) is to be given to all elders and pastors – that is the first honor. “Remuneration” (financial) is the second honor. Their needs, their expenses, their salaries are to be paid to free them to do the work of preaching and teaching. The apostle lists some Scriptural evidence in support of this. He goes back to the Law, to the book of Deuteronomy, and quotes what Moses said: “You shall not muzzle an ox when it is treading out the grain,” (Deut. 25:4).
Today any concerned individual who sees from the Scriptures that things are out of line is responsible to call these things to the attention of the leaders of the church and press for action if need be (vv. 19-20). First, there must be no partiality shown (v. 21). Paul tells Timothy to be careful, to not give people leadership roles in the Church too hastily (v. 22). Look for the qualifications that other Scriptures have told us to look for. If you are sick take a little wine for healing (v. 23). Paul tells Timothy not to ignore sins and weaknesses he may find in men and let good deeds show (vv. 24-25).
Application
What am I doing to help my church to be the kind of influence it should be in my community. It is so easy to just be a spectator and not be a part of the team that reaches out into the community.
1 Timothy 5:17– 25 (NET)
17 Elders who provide effective leadership must be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard in speaking and teaching. 18 For the scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,” and, “The worker deserves his pay.” 19 Do not accept an accusation against an elder unless it can be confirmed by two or three witnesses. 20 Those guilty of sin must be rebuked before all, as a warning to the rest. 21 Before God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, I solemnly charge you to carry out these commands without prejudice or favoritism of any kind. 22 Do not lay hands on anyone hastily and so identify with the sins of others. Keep yourself pure. 23 (Stop drinking just water, but use a little wine for your digestion and your frequent illnesses.) 24 The sins of some people are obvious, going before them into judgment, but for others, they show up later. 25 Similarly good works are also obvious, and the ones that are not cannot remain hidden.