1 Timothy 5 - Printer Friendly

Chapter 5 begins a new section giving instructions regarding various groups. Paul provides Timothy with guidance regarding various persons within the Ephesian church. These include both older and younger people (1 Timothy 5:1–2), widows (1 Timothy 5:3–16), and elders (1 Timothy 5:17–25). Chapter 6 will continue this discussion in the context of servants or slaves.

The first section in this chapter (1 Timothy 5:1–2) includes specific information regarding treatment of older and younger men. Timothy is to treat both with respect: older men as fathers, younger men as brothers. Verse two deals with older and younger women, who are to be honored and not treated with lustful or inappropriate attitudes.

Verses 3 through 16 provide a lengthy set of instructions relating to widows in the church. Paul's overall message is to "Honor widows who are truly widows" (1 Timothy 5:3). This means the church should prioritize those who are truly in need. Charity should not be squandered on those who have the ability to help themselves. Family is always the first line of defense against poverty (1 Timothy 5:4). Those who are truly left alone are to be helped by other believers (1 Timothy 5:5–6). Rules for widows helped by the church are given in verses 9 through 16.

The third section of this chapter focuses on proper ways to honor and discipline elders (1 Timothy 5:17–25). Those who rule well are worthy of "double honor" (1 Timothy 5:17). In this context, that means not only the respect of the church members, but financial support to allow them to focus on the needs of the congregation. Accusations against elders are to be handled according to specific instructions (1 Timothy 5:19–21). In particular, Timothy is to avoid wasting time on charges which lack evidence or credibility. However, if an elder is found to be in sin, they are to be publicly rebuked.

In addition, Paul strongly warns Timothy to use much caution in selecting elders (1 Timothy 5:22–25). Both sins and good deeds can be hidden from the eyes of other people. God, however, is well aware of them.

First Timothy 5:1–2 is a brief description of how Timothy, as a church leader, ought to interact with the men and women of his congregation. These commands are brief, but they have powerful implications. These commands are in the context of Timothy's role as a spiritual leader and teacher. Timothy is to treat older men and women as fathers and mothers—with respect and support, not harsh rebuke. Younger men and women are to be treated with fairness and equality, rather than arrogance or lustfulness.

First Timothy 5:3–16 gives Paul's instructions regarding priority in the care of widows. Since church resources are finite, it is important to focus attention on those who are most needy. In this case, Paul refers to such women as ''true widows.'' Those who are younger or more capable should not be given an excuse for laziness or gossip. And, family members have the first and foremost responsibility for caring for each other. The guidelines given here focus attention on the most vulnerable women and avoid enabling immodest behaviors.

First Timothy 5:17–25 provides guidelines on how a church should honor elders. It also refers to the proper way to discipline them, if this becomes necessary. Those who devote themselves to serving the church should be supported, meaning paid, so they can fully focus on the needs of the congregation. Accusations should only be taken seriously when there is sufficient evidence. And elders who are found in sin should be publicly rebuked. Paul also warns Timothy not to be too hasty in assigning elders, since some men's sins are hidden and hard to detect.

First Timothy chapter 5 focuses on Timothy's supervision of those within the church. This includes a respectful attitude towards both men and women, young and old. A large portion of the chapter deals with how to care for widows. The theme of Paul's instruction is prioritizing those who are truly in need, and not enabling those who are merely lazy. Timothy is also instructed on how to screen out baseless accusations against an elder, and how to properly discipline them if they are found in sin. With that in mind, Timothy is also warned not to be reckless in who he appoints as an elder.

Prior passages explained the burden placed on Timothy and other church leaders. In this chapter, the emphasis is on how Timothy is to treat others in the congregation. A large portion of this refers to prioritizing charity for widows. This passage will more or less complete Paul's specific instructions to Timothy in this letter. The next (final) chapter will build on all of these themes with a command for Timothy to make the most of his spiritual service.

First Timothy is one of Paul's three ''Pastoral Epistles.'' Paul's other letters, such as Romans, Ephesians, and Colossians, are meant for a broader audience. First Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus are written to specific people whom Paul is advising on how to best lead their local churches. These three letters present a close look at the form and function of church leadership. First Timothy, like 2 Timothy and Titus, is less formal and systematic, and more personal. This gives great insight into the way pastors, deacons, and elders ought to prioritize their time and energy.