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First Timothy: Doing Church God's Way

Radiant Church Visalia
Radiant Church Visalia
Episode • Jan 19, 2020 • 54m

Scripture References: 1 Timothy 5:17-25, 1 Timothy 3, Deuteronomy 25:4, 1 Corinthians 9:3-12, Luke 10:7, 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, Hebrews 13:17, Acts

Intro:

  • 1 Timothy: Paul's letter to Timothy, a young pastor in Ephesus, providing guidance on church order.
  • 1 Timothy 5 addresses issues concerning church leaders.
  • Leadership in the church can be complex due to imperfect people.
  • Acknowledge past hurts and issues related to church leadership.

Key Points:

  • Leaders in Pay (1 Timothy 5:17-18):
    • Elders who "rule well" (manage/direct) deserve "double honor."
    • Varying roles exist within leadership teams.
    • "Double honor" includes: 
      • Respect, esteem, and cooperation (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, Hebrews 13:17).
      • Financial compensation for those directing church affairs, preaching, and teaching (Deuteronomy 25:4, 1 Corinthians 9:3-12, Luke 10:7).
  • Leaders in Problems (1 Timothy 5:19-21):
    • Leaders are not immune to problems, even serious ones.
    • Instructions for dealing with problem leaders: 
      • Concerns about persistent sin should be brought to leadership.
      • Public rebuke/correction may be necessary in cases of public ministry and persistent sin.
      • Purpose of public correction: Fear of the Lord.
      • Timothy's charge: Be impartial.
  • Leaders in Placement (1 Timothy 5:22-25):
    • Do not be hasty in appointing new leaders.
    • Take time to discern character.
    • Leaders are like trees, needing time to establish.
    • Parenthetical statement (1 Timothy 5:23): 
      • Paul's advice to Timothy regarding wine for his stomach.
      • Possible interpretations: 
        • Help with Timothy's anxiety.
        • Countering ascetic teachings (1 Timothy 4:1-5).

Conclusion:

  • Church done God's way includes leaders with mature character.
  • Qualities of leaders: 
    • Chosen based on long-term strength.
    • Still growing in Christ.
    • Real people with real needs.
    • Not perfect.
    • Open to input but not captive to preferences.
    • Not seeking wealth or power.
  • Leaders have varying roles.
  • Healthy examples, worthy of respect and support.

Call to Action:

  • Positional repentance on behalf of leaders.
  • Release forgiveness for past hurts.
  • Pray for church leaders: 
    • For a clear conscience.
    • To live honorably.
    • For joy in their work.

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