1 TIMOTHY 5

GUIDANCE FOR SUPPORTING + CARING FOR THE CHURCH FAMILY 

Paul encourages Timothy to teach the Ephesians to care for and encourage all generations. He instructs them not to be harsh with older people, but show them patience and treat them like family. Likewise, they are to treat the younger people as brothers and sisters in Christ.

Paul teaches that one’s family is their first priority and primary ministry. Everyone is to care for their own household and provide for their needs. When someone is widowed, their family is called to support them and provide assistance. Paul specifies that the Church must care for older widows, prioritizing those who have no other family. From Paul’s letter, it appears that some of the younger widows were taking advantage of the church's support or exploiting the money they received. Paul is not advocating for not helping younger widows, but cautions the church to be good stewards of who they provide with financial support.

Giving instructions for the church leaders, Paul outlines how to respond to both righteous and struggling leaders. Paul tells Timothy to honor those who preach and teach, rewarding their diligent work. For those who are persistent in sin, Timothy is to rebuke and correct them. Paul teaches Timothy to collect evidence from reliable witnesses and maintain impartiality.

Paul teaches that some sins have immediate consequences, while others will not appear for some time. In the same way, not all good works have instant results and some result in delayed gratification.