Elders who do their work well should be respected and paid well, especially those who work hard at both preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, “You must not muzzle an ox to keep it from eating as it treads out the grain.” And in another place, “Those who work deserve their pay!” Do not listen to an accusation against an elder unless it is confirmed by two or three witnesses. Those who sin should be reprimanded in front of the whole church; this will serve as a strong warning to others. I solemnly command you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus and the highest angels to obey these instructions without taking sides or showing favoritism to anyone. Never be in a hurry about appointing a church leader. Do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure. Don’t drink only water. You ought to drink a little wine for the sake of your stomach because you are sick so often. Remember, the sins of some people are obvious, leading them to certain judgment. But there are others whose sins will not be revealed until later. In the same way, the good deeds of some people are obvious. And the good deeds done in secret will someday come to light.
1 Timothy 5:17-25 NLT
Christians are called to respect their pastors, and pastors are called to be humble. When this works well, pastors are loved, their teaching is fruitful, their vision is lived out, they are financially taken care of, and accusations against them are squashed before they gain momentum. Unfortunately, these verses are not often lived out. Pastors then struggle with defensiveness and pride, trying to force others to respect them and follow God’s Word.
A person should not be given leadership quickly, especially spiritual leadership. The sins of some people are obvious, yet others hide their sins well – so we need to be patient with giving power and positions to people in church (and life). We all lead in some area of our lives – home, family, work, school, friends. How are we leading? Are we leading others closer to Christ? Are we wise with our leadership and whom we trust to lead us? Leaders also need to be people of Christ-like character, empowering other leaders who have genuine integrity – those are the people to promote. Skills can be taught, but character is a choice – forged and refined in the fire of life.
God has given us godly leaders to follow. He holds leaders accountable for how they lead and He will hold people accountable for how faithfully they follow.
How can you live out these verses this week? How can you be wise in the areas where you have been given leadership?
