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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