church leadership

In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of the elect angels I charge you to keep these rules without prejudging, doing nothing from partiality. 1 Timothy 5:21

What was so important that Paul invokes the reminder of the constant presence of God the Father, Christ the Son, and unseen angel forces? Answer: The call for Timothy to stay impartial and clear-headed in administering the conduct of church leadership. He needed to keep some clear rules, avoid prejudicial thinking, and remain impartial.

What were the “rules” about elders?

1. Those who were gifted preachers should be supported when possible (1 Timothy 5:17-18).
2. Any charge of sin against an elder needs to be established with the evidence of multiple witnesses (1 Timothy 5:19).
3. Elders clearly caught in unrepentant sin should be rebuked before the other elders and the church (1 Timothy 5:20).
4. Appointing elders should be a careful process to maintain doctrinal and personal purity (1 TImothy 5:22-25).

Lord,

Leadership is so very important in Your church. May the men I serve among see their task as the most important leadership ever. May we labor to support gospel preaching, seriously guard our hearts and Your church, and make the right choices for gifted elders to continue leading Your Church, Lord Jesus!

Amen