Christ's Commandments
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 4:7a . . Have nothing to do with the worldly fantasies of withered old women.
Paul isn't speaking of action comics and/or pulp novels that can be purchased at venders like Barnes & Noble and Borders; but rather, of the religious traditions that the seniors of every generation customarily pass down to the young; thus perpetuating non Christian beliefs and practices.
The USA's indigenous cultural traditions would be a good example of this. When a Native American becomes a Christian, the Bible's God expects them to disown portions of their spiritual heritage, and let them go; not entirely of course; but certain elements like contacting the spirits of one's deceased ancestors would have to be scrubbed for sure.
This is a very sensitive issue and one where non-native Christians, unschooled in Indigenous culture, seriously need to tread lightly. The White Man's early attempts to completely wipe out everything Native American was a terrible mistake that today's non-native Christians have got to be extra careful not to repeat.
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1Tim 4:7a . . Have nothing to do with the worldly fantasies of withered old women.
Paul isn't speaking of action comics and/or pulp novels that can be purchased at venders like Barnes & Noble and Borders; but rather, of the religious traditions that the seniors of every generation customarily pass down to the young; thus perpetuating non Christian beliefs and practices.
The USA's indigenous cultural traditions would be a good example of this. When a Native American becomes a Christian, the Bible's God expects them to disown portions of their spiritual heritage, and let them go; not entirely of course; but certain elements like contacting the spirits of one's deceased ancestors would have to be scrubbed for sure.
This is a very sensitive issue and one where non-native Christians, unschooled in Indigenous culture, seriously need to tread lightly. The White Man's early attempts to completely wipe out everything Native American was a terrible mistake that today's non-native Christians have got to be extra careful not to repeat.
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 4:7b-8 . .Train yourself to be pious. For physical training is of some value, but piety has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.
I think what he's talking about is the development of good habits as opposed to bad habits.
Physical training like baseball practice makes a player like Derek Jeter a whiz at short stop. While his mind is deciding what best to do with the ball, his body's reflexes automatically carry out its decision without Derek having to think about it. That comes from conditioning. But Jeter's baseball ability is only good for when he's playing baseball, not for everything he does in life; while piety moderates everything, including one's conduct on the playing field.
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1Tim 4:7b-8 . .Train yourself to be pious. For physical training is of some value, but piety has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.
I think what he's talking about is the development of good habits as opposed to bad habits.
Physical training like baseball practice makes a player like Derek Jeter a whiz at short stop. While his mind is deciding what best to do with the ball, his body's reflexes automatically carry out its decision without Derek having to think about it. That comes from conditioning. But Jeter's baseball ability is only good for when he's playing baseball, not for everything he does in life; while piety moderates everything, including one's conduct on the playing field.
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WeberHome
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 4:11 . . Command and teach these things.
I believe Paul was referring to everything he wrote in his letter; not just the last few verses.
1Tim 4:12 . . Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.
It's commonly assumed that Paul's instructions were in reference to Timothy's age; but I think it had more to do with his looks.
Some men age well; for instance the actor Rob Lowe. As of today, he's 54 years old; but honestly doesn't look it. He's one of those lucky guys who seem to be forever 21.
I think Timothy was like that. He just didn't look old enough to take the reins of a church, let alone an entire diocese. In other words: Timothy didn't look the part so he was going to have to really mean business if he was to win people's respect.
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1Tim 4:11 . . Command and teach these things.
I believe Paul was referring to everything he wrote in his letter; not just the last few verses.
1Tim 4:12 . . Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.
It's commonly assumed that Paul's instructions were in reference to Timothy's age; but I think it had more to do with his looks.
Some men age well; for instance the actor Rob Lowe. As of today, he's 54 years old; but honestly doesn't look it. He's one of those lucky guys who seem to be forever 21.
I think Timothy was like that. He just didn't look old enough to take the reins of a church, let alone an entire diocese. In other words: Timothy didn't look the part so he was going to have to really mean business if he was to win people's respect.
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WeberHome
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 4:13 . . Focus upon the public reading of scripture, and to preaching and teaching.
Public reading was necessary because of the scarcity of Bibles in those days. All were hand-written; none were mass-produced like now. But even with the ease of access to Bibles nowadays, the danger lies in Christians becoming self-taught if church officers neglect to preach and teach. (cf. Eph 4:11-16)
Scripture in those days would have been pretty much limited to the Old Testament since the New Testament's canon had not yet been compiled. The Old Testament is very important because it is impossible for believers to obtain a full understanding of The Lord's mission and purpose without a comprehensive knowledge of the Old Testament.
"And he said unto them, These are the words which I spoke unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the Prophets, and in the Psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures." (Luke 24:44-45)
"The holy scriptures are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." (2Tim 3:15-17)
"For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, that through perseverance and the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope." (Rom 15:4)
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1Tim 4:13 . . Focus upon the public reading of scripture, and to preaching and teaching.
Public reading was necessary because of the scarcity of Bibles in those days. All were hand-written; none were mass-produced like now. But even with the ease of access to Bibles nowadays, the danger lies in Christians becoming self-taught if church officers neglect to preach and teach. (cf. Eph 4:11-16)
Scripture in those days would have been pretty much limited to the Old Testament since the New Testament's canon had not yet been compiled. The Old Testament is very important because it is impossible for believers to obtain a full understanding of The Lord's mission and purpose without a comprehensive knowledge of the Old Testament.
"And he said unto them, These are the words which I spoke unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the Prophets, and in the Psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures." (Luke 24:44-45)
"The holy scriptures are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." (2Tim 3:15-17)
"For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, that through perseverance and the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope." (Rom 15:4)
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WeberHome
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 4:15-16 . . Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress.
Goods and services are often advertised by means of comparisons; i.e. before and after, e.g. weight loss programs, age resisting cosmetics, hormone replacements, house paints, etc. Well; Christianity is reputed to be not only a life-changing religion, but also a person-changing religion. Of all the people in church, its officers really ought to be living exhibits of the before-and-after results of their own religion; viz: the congregation really ought to be seeing improvements in their personality, their civility, their integrity, and their piety because if Christianity doesn't work to improve its officers, then I believe the rank and file have a justifiable right to expect it won't work for them either.
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1Tim 4:15-16 . . Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress.
Goods and services are often advertised by means of comparisons; i.e. before and after, e.g. weight loss programs, age resisting cosmetics, hormone replacements, house paints, etc. Well; Christianity is reputed to be not only a life-changing religion, but also a person-changing religion. Of all the people in church, its officers really ought to be living exhibits of the before-and-after results of their own religion; viz: the congregation really ought to be seeing improvements in their personality, their civility, their integrity, and their piety because if Christianity doesn't work to improve its officers, then I believe the rank and file have a justifiable right to expect it won't work for them either.
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WeberHome
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 5:1a . . When speaking to an older man, appeal to him respectfully as though he were your own father.
There's probably nothing more humiliating to a parent than to be treated like dirt by their children-- except maybe to be treated like dirt by a spouse.
Americans have the right to a trial by a jury of their peers. Well, a child is not a parent's peer; he's not even the parent's equal let alone his peer. Parents are not children's peers; no, parents are their betters, not their equals. It's a thoughtless, wicked, insolent dunce who treats their parents with no more respect than a college beer buddy.
I was in a Sunday school class one morning where a young fellow substituted for the regular teacher. After practically every sentence during his lecture, the fellow would pause, tighten his lips, turn down the corners of his mouth, squint his eyes into narrow slits, and look around the room with a fierce scowl on his face; and better than half that room was older than he was. I don't know about the rest of the group, but as a man easily twice his age; I deeply resented the looks that youngster was giving us.
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1Tim 5:1a . . When speaking to an older man, appeal to him respectfully as though he were your own father.
There's probably nothing more humiliating to a parent than to be treated like dirt by their children-- except maybe to be treated like dirt by a spouse.
Americans have the right to a trial by a jury of their peers. Well, a child is not a parent's peer; he's not even the parent's equal let alone his peer. Parents are not children's peers; no, parents are their betters, not their equals. It's a thoughtless, wicked, insolent dunce who treats their parents with no more respect than a college beer buddy.
I was in a Sunday school class one morning where a young fellow substituted for the regular teacher. After practically every sentence during his lecture, the fellow would pause, tighten his lips, turn down the corners of his mouth, squint his eyes into narrow slits, and look around the room with a fierce scowl on his face; and better than half that room was older than he was. I don't know about the rest of the group, but as a man easily twice his age; I deeply resented the looks that youngster was giving us.
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WeberHome
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 5:1b . .Speak to the younger men as you would to your own kin.
In this case, the "kin" would be sort of like a man's younger siblings; viz: his kid brothers. Young boys look up to their big brothers; who by all rights should be setting the example as role models that a growing boy can be proud of. Big brothers ought to be available too, and not treat their younger siblings as excess baggage and/or uncool nerds and morons who are beneath their dignity to be seen with.
Church officers who grew up in dysfunctional homes, where human relationships were an ongoing cold war, are going to find that 1Tim 5:1b is very difficult to obey in a manner that exemplifies peace, love, and understanding. Were they to speak to the younger men in church the very same way that they're accustomed to speaking to their own kin; it would produce disastrous results.
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1Tim 5:1b . .Speak to the younger men as you would to your own kin.
In this case, the "kin" would be sort of like a man's younger siblings; viz: his kid brothers. Young boys look up to their big brothers; who by all rights should be setting the example as role models that a growing boy can be proud of. Big brothers ought to be available too, and not treat their younger siblings as excess baggage and/or uncool nerds and morons who are beneath their dignity to be seen with.
Church officers who grew up in dysfunctional homes, where human relationships were an ongoing cold war, are going to find that 1Tim 5:1b is very difficult to obey in a manner that exemplifies peace, love, and understanding. Were they to speak to the younger men in church the very same way that they're accustomed to speaking to their own kin; it would produce disastrous results.
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 5:2 . . Speak to the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity.
The koiné Greek word for "purity" is hagneia (hag-ni'-ah) which means: cleanliness; viz: chastity
Webster's defines "chastity" as: abstention from unlawful sexual intercourse and/or purity in conduct and intention
Church officers are in an advantageous position for meeting women; thus opportunities for trysts, assaults, and abuse abound.
Speaking to older women as mothers means doing so in compliance with the fourth of the Ten Commandments.
● Ex 20:12 . . Honor your mother
Honoring one's mother means giving her the respect that her age and her maternal position deserve. It means watching your language, and it means keeping a civil tongue in your head. It means speaking to her as a grown-up instead of a child. It means treating her as superior and you as subordinate. It means deferring to her wishes instead of demanding your own.
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1Tim 5:2 . . Speak to the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity.
The koiné Greek word for "purity" is hagneia (hag-ni'-ah) which means: cleanliness; viz: chastity
Webster's defines "chastity" as: abstention from unlawful sexual intercourse and/or purity in conduct and intention
Church officers are in an advantageous position for meeting women; thus opportunities for trysts, assaults, and abuse abound.
Speaking to older women as mothers means doing so in compliance with the fourth of the Ten Commandments.
● Ex 20:12 . . Honor your mother
Honoring one's mother means giving her the respect that her age and her maternal position deserve. It means watching your language, and it means keeping a civil tongue in your head. It means speaking to her as a grown-up instead of a child. It means treating her as superior and you as subordinate. It means deferring to her wishes instead of demanding your own.
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 5:3-4 . . Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, her kin should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.
A widow in real need would be one who is unable to work and has no one of her own to look out after her. Here in modern America that situation isn't nearly as serious as it is in third world countries where there are no government assistance programs for senior citizens. So you can see that in those circumstances a widow's church may be the only thing between her and grinding poverty.
A widow's Christian offspring have a sacred obligation to provide for their aging ancestors.
"Those who won't care for their own kin, especially those living in the same household, have disregarded what we believe. Such people are worse than infidels." (1Tim 5:8)
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1Tim 5:3-4 . . Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, her kin should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.
A widow in real need would be one who is unable to work and has no one of her own to look out after her. Here in modern America that situation isn't nearly as serious as it is in third world countries where there are no government assistance programs for senior citizens. So you can see that in those circumstances a widow's church may be the only thing between her and grinding poverty.
A widow's Christian offspring have a sacred obligation to provide for their aging ancestors.
"Those who won't care for their own kin, especially those living in the same household, have disregarded what we believe. Such people are worse than infidels." (1Tim 5:8)
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 5:5-7 . .The widow who is really in need, and left all alone, puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for help. But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives. Give the people these instructions, too, so that no one may be open to blame.
The New Testament Greek word for "pleasure" means voluptuous; which Webster's defines as luxury and/or sensual gratification.
People who live only for the best that life has to offer generally regard religion as a ball and chain holding them back from living their lives to the fullest. Well; not everyone has access to either the means or the wherewithal to live life to the fullest. For some, life offers no options other than a tin shack, a dirt floor, a thatch roof, and a bowl of white rice; if that.
Paul says to decline widows for whom basic necessities aren't an issue, rather, whose goal is to satisfy their appetite for the best that life has to offer. As it's said that one cannot serve God and money, well neither can one serve God and one's inherent cravings. True, you can't stop yourself from having cravings for the best that life has to offer; but you can choose whether to let them be the dominant force in your life.
"Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the concerns of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful." (Mark 4:18-19)
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1Tim 5:5-7 . .The widow who is really in need, and left all alone, puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for help. But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives. Give the people these instructions, too, so that no one may be open to blame.
The New Testament Greek word for "pleasure" means voluptuous; which Webster's defines as luxury and/or sensual gratification.
People who live only for the best that life has to offer generally regard religion as a ball and chain holding them back from living their lives to the fullest. Well; not everyone has access to either the means or the wherewithal to live life to the fullest. For some, life offers no options other than a tin shack, a dirt floor, a thatch roof, and a bowl of white rice; if that.
Paul says to decline widows for whom basic necessities aren't an issue, rather, whose goal is to satisfy their appetite for the best that life has to offer. As it's said that one cannot serve God and money, well neither can one serve God and one's inherent cravings. True, you can't stop yourself from having cravings for the best that life has to offer; but you can choose whether to let them be the dominant force in your life.
"Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the concerns of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful." (Mark 4:18-19)
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 5:9-10 . . No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds.
There are unprincipled individuals out there who love nothing better than taking advantage of a church's good nature, and its desire to be helpful. Following Paul's directive is a good way to avoid being victimized by one of them. (cf. Ruth 2:11)
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1Tim 5:9-10 . . No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds.
There are unprincipled individuals out there who love nothing better than taking advantage of a church's good nature, and its desire to be helpful. Following Paul's directive is a good way to avoid being victimized by one of them. (cf. Ruth 2:11)
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WeberHome
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1Tim 5:11 . . Refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, having condemnation because they have cast off their first faith.
The Greek words for "first faith" don't necessarily have to do with chronology. The word for "first" is protos (pro'-tos) which is somewhat ambiguous. It can refer to-- besides chronology --priority, i.e. order of importance.
The passage seems to me a caution that there's always the possibility that young widows will want to get married bad enough to do so contrary to Christ's wishes that they marry only someone from among his followers (2Cor 6:14, 1Cor 7:39) thus failing to maintain their loyalty to a higher power. (cf. Luke 14:26-27)
"And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not." (1Tim 5:13)
It's said that idle hands are the Devil's workshop. The thing is: widows young enough to hold down a job should try to find one and support themselves to the best of their ability instead of relying upon a stipend from their church.
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1Tim 5:11 . . Refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, having condemnation because they have cast off their first faith.
The Greek words for "first faith" don't necessarily have to do with chronology. The word for "first" is protos (pro'-tos) which is somewhat ambiguous. It can refer to-- besides chronology --priority, i.e. order of importance.
The passage seems to me a caution that there's always the possibility that young widows will want to get married bad enough to do so contrary to Christ's wishes that they marry only someone from among his followers (2Cor 6:14, 1Cor 7:39) thus failing to maintain their loyalty to a higher power. (cf. Luke 14:26-27)
"And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not." (1Tim 5:13)
It's said that idle hands are the Devil's workshop. The thing is: widows young enough to hold down a job should try to find one and support themselves to the best of their ability instead of relying upon a stipend from their church.
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WeberHome
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 5:14 . . I will that younger women marry, have children, manage their homes, and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander.
The Greek word for "younger" actually means new and unused; so I'd say that Paul's orders are for girls not yet married and settled down and maybe thinking of putting all that off awhile for careers and/or whatever.
A very real danger for young single women is immorality. Desire, loneliness, and longings for appreciation, have a way of building up to unbearable levels in people who live alone; and just about that time, along comes a really great somebody who maybe breaks down their defenses and gets a little too chummy. That can be a difficult moment.
"To avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband." (1Cor 7:2)
NOTE: Immorality isn't the only danger related to long-term celibacy. Those who've decided on that path need to think rationally and objectively about their future; and ask themselves: Do I really want to live out my youth without someone; alone and unloved in the world? Can I bear up without a nervous break-down and/or turning to alcohol, Prozac, and overeating? Will I become irritable and difficult, and/or a chronic man-hater like aunt Lucy?
Have to be brutally honest with these questions because one's mental health is on the line here. It's very possible to wake up one day and realize, with terrible regret, that you've allowed the best years of your life for love to slip through your fingers.
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1Tim 5:14 . . I will that younger women marry, have children, manage their homes, and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander.
The Greek word for "younger" actually means new and unused; so I'd say that Paul's orders are for girls not yet married and settled down and maybe thinking of putting all that off awhile for careers and/or whatever.
A very real danger for young single women is immorality. Desire, loneliness, and longings for appreciation, have a way of building up to unbearable levels in people who live alone; and just about that time, along comes a really great somebody who maybe breaks down their defenses and gets a little too chummy. That can be a difficult moment.
"To avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband." (1Cor 7:2)
NOTE: Immorality isn't the only danger related to long-term celibacy. Those who've decided on that path need to think rationally and objectively about their future; and ask themselves: Do I really want to live out my youth without someone; alone and unloved in the world? Can I bear up without a nervous break-down and/or turning to alcohol, Prozac, and overeating? Will I become irritable and difficult, and/or a chronic man-hater like aunt Lucy?
Have to be brutally honest with these questions because one's mental health is on the line here. It's very possible to wake up one day and realize, with terrible regret, that you've allowed the best years of your life for love to slip through your fingers.
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1Tim 5:16 . . If any believing man or woman have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed.
It's awful to think that a religion based upon love, has to command its adherents to extend kindness to their own kin.
But in all fairness, I should point out that Paul's directive only impacts believing widows, not unbelieving, because a Christian church is under zero obligation to support widows who fail to meet all the requirements of a "widow indeed" as per 1Tim 5:9-10.
What we're talking about here are specifically Christian widows; so if those among your relatives are say, Atheist, Agnostic, Muslim, Buddhist, Bahái, Hindu, Jehovah's Witness, Scientology, or Mormon, et al; then don't even think about asking your church to help support them. If you want to help them, okay, but leave your church out of it.
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1Tim 5:16 . . If any believing man or woman have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed.
It's awful to think that a religion based upon love, has to command its adherents to extend kindness to their own kin.
But in all fairness, I should point out that Paul's directive only impacts believing widows, not unbelieving, because a Christian church is under zero obligation to support widows who fail to meet all the requirements of a "widow indeed" as per 1Tim 5:9-10.
What we're talking about here are specifically Christian widows; so if those among your relatives are say, Atheist, Agnostic, Muslim, Buddhist, Bahái, Hindu, Jehovah's Witness, Scientology, or Mormon, et al; then don't even think about asking your church to help support them. If you want to help them, okay, but leave your church out of it.
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1Tim 5:17-18 . .The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For the scripture says: "Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain" and "The laborer is worthy of his hire."
The koiné Greek word for "elder" is presbuteros (pres-boo'-ter-os). It corresponds to aldermen; which Webster's defines as: members of a legislative body. In other words; elders enact and enforce the proprietary rules and bylaws that govern everybody in a local church; including its pastor. In some churches those rules and bylaws are called a covenant; which new members have to accept. The aldermen are also responsible for settling disputes between church members (1Cor 6:1-5) so that they correspond to "the church" that Christ spoke of at Matt 18:15-18.
Aldermen aren't peculiar to Christianity. Councils pre-existed amongst Moses' people prior to Moses' commission (Ex 3:16). Anon, seventy of Israel's elders were established by God as a supreme council (Num 11:16-17). One's failure to submit to their church's aldermen is grounds for removing their name from the role. (Matt 18:15-18)
Since Christian aldermen sometimes wear more than one hat as preachers and teachers; then it's very possible in a large church for them to have time for nothing else, like for instance holding down a job. For that reason, their constituents should try and compensate them with a decent standard of living. I mean, after all, if their service to a local church is invaluable, then by all means the congregation should do whatever it takes to keep them on staff where they can devote all of their time and energy towards governing (that is; if you feel your church is a worthwhile endeavor).
Let's say for example, that one of your church's aldermen is a retiree trying to survive on Social Security and a diminished 401K. He'll be a lot more effective towards your church's good if the congregation, whatever its size, pitches in to help him make ends meet; and the outside world surely won't blame your church for doing so unless of course they're as callous towards the needs of a senior citizen as the bottom of a soldier's boot.
But beware that the congregation doesn't overcompensate its aldermen to the point where they can afford to drive a Cadillac Escalade, wear a Rolex, and own an expensive home in an up-scale district. That will really make Christianity look bad, and actually work against Christ's best interests.
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1Tim 5:17-18 . .The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For the scripture says: "Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain" and "The laborer is worthy of his hire."
The koiné Greek word for "elder" is presbuteros (pres-boo'-ter-os). It corresponds to aldermen; which Webster's defines as: members of a legislative body. In other words; elders enact and enforce the proprietary rules and bylaws that govern everybody in a local church; including its pastor. In some churches those rules and bylaws are called a covenant; which new members have to accept. The aldermen are also responsible for settling disputes between church members (1Cor 6:1-5) so that they correspond to "the church" that Christ spoke of at Matt 18:15-18.
Aldermen aren't peculiar to Christianity. Councils pre-existed amongst Moses' people prior to Moses' commission (Ex 3:16). Anon, seventy of Israel's elders were established by God as a supreme council (Num 11:16-17). One's failure to submit to their church's aldermen is grounds for removing their name from the role. (Matt 18:15-18)
Since Christian aldermen sometimes wear more than one hat as preachers and teachers; then it's very possible in a large church for them to have time for nothing else, like for instance holding down a job. For that reason, their constituents should try and compensate them with a decent standard of living. I mean, after all, if their service to a local church is invaluable, then by all means the congregation should do whatever it takes to keep them on staff where they can devote all of their time and energy towards governing (that is; if you feel your church is a worthwhile endeavor).
Let's say for example, that one of your church's aldermen is a retiree trying to survive on Social Security and a diminished 401K. He'll be a lot more effective towards your church's good if the congregation, whatever its size, pitches in to help him make ends meet; and the outside world surely won't blame your church for doing so unless of course they're as callous towards the needs of a senior citizen as the bottom of a soldier's boot.
But beware that the congregation doesn't overcompensate its aldermen to the point where they can afford to drive a Cadillac Escalade, wear a Rolex, and own an expensive home in an up-scale district. That will really make Christianity look bad, and actually work against Christ's best interests.
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 5:19 . . Do not accept an accusation against an elder except before two or three witnesses.
It isn't required that two or three witnesses accuse the elder, but that an accuser do so in the hearing of two or three witnesses. The witnesses are not there to testify against the elder; no, they are there to testify against the accuser in the event it's discovered that he's the perpetrator of a slander.
1Tim 5:20 . .Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
Once it's discovered that an accuser's allegations are libelous, then it's time to get up in front of the entire congregation and expose him for the cheap goods he really is because nobody's reputation is safe in the hands of someone like that. This is where the testimony of the aforementioned two or three witnesses comes into play.
"I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is a slanderer. With such a man do not even eat. Expel the wicked man from among you." (1Cor 5:11-13)
A roast of this nature can be a very humiliating experience, and when the others see how it goes, they'll think twice before making spurious allegations against elders.
However, if the accusations prove to be true; the shoe is on the other foot. Then it's time to expose the elder.
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1Tim 5:19 . . Do not accept an accusation against an elder except before two or three witnesses.
It isn't required that two or three witnesses accuse the elder, but that an accuser do so in the hearing of two or three witnesses. The witnesses are not there to testify against the elder; no, they are there to testify against the accuser in the event it's discovered that he's the perpetrator of a slander.
1Tim 5:20 . .Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
Once it's discovered that an accuser's allegations are libelous, then it's time to get up in front of the entire congregation and expose him for the cheap goods he really is because nobody's reputation is safe in the hands of someone like that. This is where the testimony of the aforementioned two or three witnesses comes into play.
"I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is a slanderer. With such a man do not even eat. Expel the wicked man from among you." (1Cor 5:11-13)
A roast of this nature can be a very humiliating experience, and when the others see how it goes, they'll think twice before making spurious allegations against elders.
However, if the accusations prove to be true; the shoe is on the other foot. Then it's time to expose the elder.
_
WeberHome
New member
Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 5:21 . . 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.
I seriously doubt that very many modern Christian churches are following Paul's instructions in regards to spurious accusations against elders. They probably find it much easier to just gloss over issues rather than comply with the mandated procedure for roasting and expelling. (as if any of this is optional)
Another thing that modern churches are very good at these days is covering up an elder's indiscretions when what they really deserve is a public hanging, so to speak. Happens all the time.
"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness." (Matt 23:27-28)
How very true that is of the staff of some of the churches in this day and age.
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1Tim 5:21 . . 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.
I seriously doubt that very many modern Christian churches are following Paul's instructions in regards to spurious accusations against elders. They probably find it much easier to just gloss over issues rather than comply with the mandated procedure for roasting and expelling. (as if any of this is optional)
Another thing that modern churches are very good at these days is covering up an elder's indiscretions when what they really deserve is a public hanging, so to speak. Happens all the time.
"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness." (Matt 23:27-28)
How very true that is of the staff of some of the churches in this day and age.
_
WeberHome
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 5:22 . . Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily
The laying on of hands was a commissioning ritual back in the day. (Acts 6:1-6, Acts 13:1-3)
The ruling seems primarily concerned with the avoidance of fast-tracking candidates for aldermen, senior pastors, associate pastors, deacons, and deaconesses; in other words: church officials; whether high ranking or low ranking.
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1Tim 5:22 . . Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily
The laying on of hands was a commissioning ritual back in the day. (Acts 6:1-6, Acts 13:1-3)
The ruling seems primarily concerned with the avoidance of fast-tracking candidates for aldermen, senior pastors, associate pastors, deacons, and deaconesses; in other words: church officials; whether high ranking or low ranking.
_
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Re: Christ's Commandments
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1Tim 5:23 . . No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.
In the days prior to the proliferation of antiseptics, antibiotics, inoculations, and a host of other mass-produced treatments; wine was an important remedy for just about everything from indigestion to open wounds. (e.g. Mark 15:23, and Luke 10:34)
Medicine has come a long ways in the last 2,000 years so that even if a little wine would still help whatever ailed Timothy's tummy, there's probably much better over-the-counter, non-alcoholic remedies available for his condition in our day.
Paul mentioned that his friend had other problems too. I have no clue what those might have been; but I have to ask: Why didn't Paul utilize his apostolic gift of healing to cure his friend? My answer is: probably because Timothy's problems didn’t require a miracle. For example Mark 16:13 where Christ' men utilized oil to treat certain people rather than miracles. In other words: when First Aid will do, surgery is unnecessary.
I think that Timothy simply wasn't taking proper care of himself and/or getting enough rest. His diet may have been inadequate too. The old adage-- God helps those who help themselves --is very true in some cases. My view is: if you can fix your own flat tire, then don't expect God to fix it for you. Like when a farmer prays for a good crop, he really needs to say amen with a hoe.
What else might be taken from 1Tim 5:23? Well; I would say do NOT rely upon so-called faith healing. Too many children are being lost these days to treatable conditions because their parents are putting so much trust in their church's interpretation of passages like Jas 5:14-15. If Paul recommended a remedy for Timothy's tummy; don't you think he would recommend a remedy for your child's treatable condition? Yes; of course he would. In many, many cases; people don't need a miracle; they just need a doctor.
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1Tim 5:23 . . No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.
In the days prior to the proliferation of antiseptics, antibiotics, inoculations, and a host of other mass-produced treatments; wine was an important remedy for just about everything from indigestion to open wounds. (e.g. Mark 15:23, and Luke 10:34)
Medicine has come a long ways in the last 2,000 years so that even if a little wine would still help whatever ailed Timothy's tummy, there's probably much better over-the-counter, non-alcoholic remedies available for his condition in our day.
Paul mentioned that his friend had other problems too. I have no clue what those might have been; but I have to ask: Why didn't Paul utilize his apostolic gift of healing to cure his friend? My answer is: probably because Timothy's problems didn’t require a miracle. For example Mark 16:13 where Christ' men utilized oil to treat certain people rather than miracles. In other words: when First Aid will do, surgery is unnecessary.
I think that Timothy simply wasn't taking proper care of himself and/or getting enough rest. His diet may have been inadequate too. The old adage-- God helps those who help themselves --is very true in some cases. My view is: if you can fix your own flat tire, then don't expect God to fix it for you. Like when a farmer prays for a good crop, he really needs to say amen with a hoe.
What else might be taken from 1Tim 5:23? Well; I would say do NOT rely upon so-called faith healing. Too many children are being lost these days to treatable conditions because their parents are putting so much trust in their church's interpretation of passages like Jas 5:14-15. If Paul recommended a remedy for Timothy's tummy; don't you think he would recommend a remedy for your child's treatable condition? Yes; of course he would. In many, many cases; people don't need a miracle; they just need a doctor.
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