17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. 18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward. 19 Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses. 20 Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. 21 I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. 22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure. 23 Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities. 24 Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after. 25 Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid. (1 Timothy 5:17-25 KJV)
Honor the Elders
Here the apostle gives directions concerning the support, discipline, and ordination of ministers. Care must be taken that ministers are honorably maintained: “Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine” (1 Timothy 5:17). This means they deserve both respect and adequate support, particularly those who devote themselves fully to preaching and teaching. In the early church, the same elders who ruled also labored in the word; ruling and teaching were done by the same individuals, though some were more diligent than others.
The work of ministers consists mainly in two things—ruling well and laboring in the word and doctrine. Those who faithfully perform these duties are worthy of double honor, that is, generous esteem and maintenance. Paul confirms this by quoting Scripture: “You shall not muzzle the ox while it treads out the grain” (Deuteronomy 25:4), and “The laborer is worthy of his wages” (Matthew 10:10). As God allowed the ox to eat while working, so He expects those who minister spiritual things to receive material support. God, under both the Law and the Gospel, has made provision for His ministers, for “those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel” (1 Corinthians 9:14). Those who withhold proper support from faithful ministers sin against God, who will call them to account.
Concerning accusations against ministers, Paul writes: “Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses” (1 Timothy 5:19). A minister’s reputation is precious and must not be tarnished by rumor or malice. Any accusation must be supported by credible witnesses and handled openly, allowing the accused to face the accusers. This ensures justice and guards against false charges. But when a minister or member is guilty of open sin, Paul says, “Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear” (1 Timothy 5:20). Public offenses must be publicly corrected so that others will take warning. Public rebuke, though severe, is intended for the offender’s correction and for the spiritual safety of the church.
Regarding ordination, Paul warns: “Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people’s sins; keep yourself pure” (1 Timothy 5:22). This refers primarily to ordaining men to the ministry. Such appointments must not be made rashly or without careful examination of their gifts, character, and spiritual maturity. To ordain unqualified persons or to absolve the unrepentant too quickly makes one a partaker in their sins. Ministers must therefore act with prudence and purity, avoiding any action that might share in the wrongdoing of others.
Paul then adds practical counsel to Timothy about his personal well-being: “No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities” (1 Timothy 5:23). Timothy, being self-disciplined and inclined to bodily austerity, drank only water. But Paul, concerned for his health, advised moderation for the sake of usefulness in ministry. This reminds us that God expects us to care for our bodies as instruments for His service. Wine, when used properly, can aid health, but excess is condemned.
Paul continues: “Some men’s sins are evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later. Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden” (1 Timothy 5:24-25). This means some people’s sins are obvious and need no investigation, while others are hidden until time reveals them. Likewise, some good works are visible, while others, though less apparent, will eventually come to light. Ministers must therefore exercise wisdom and discernment in dealing with offenders, for some are quickly exposed, while others require patient observation.
Finally, Paul gives Timothy a solemn charge: “I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing with partiality” (1 Timothy 5:21). Ministers must avoid favoritism or bias in their duties. They serve under the watchful eye of God, Christ, and the angels, and will answer to them for how they conduct their ministry. Partiality in judgment or ordination undermines justice and dishonors the Lord’s work.
In summary, this passage teaches that ministers must be treated with fairness, honor, and respect. Their labor in the word deserves generous support; their reputations must be guarded; accusations must be handled justly; ordination must be conducted carefully; and all things must be done without prejudice. At the same time, ministers themselves must maintain purity, exercise wisdom, care for their health, and fulfill their duties faithfully before God. (1 Timothy 5:17-25)