Thinking of your family, and the church body, what problems can occur if these guidelines aren’t followed?
What then, and today, may happen if widows aren’t taken care of?
Paul sees the church as the renewed family of God, and wants them to care for one another with the power of the Spirit.
N. T. Wright says, “Christian theology then, is closely bound up with the guidelines for healthy family living.”
What problems may occur if these guidelines aren’t followed?
How can we balance the life of the church with our responsibilities within our own families?
In 1 Timothy 5:17-6:5, Paul instructs Timothy on the relationship between pastors and elders, and those they lead.
Although I feel well taken care of here, and have sufficient means, I have seen many young pastors with families struggle, and once was in that position.
Paul speaks of double honor in verse 17, which suggests material things. In verse 18, he says, “The labor is worthy of his wages.” The church must consider these things today.
In chapter 6 verses 1-5, Paul discusses the issue of slavery. In First Century Roman Empire, slavery was much more common than even Colonial America.
Slavery is no longer an issue in our land. However, the church must still be concerned with class and racial equality.
In conclusion, read this passage again. Think about what the church can do to make our society better.
— Rev. John D. Guess, Pastor