Dynamic Life Baptist Ministries - Pastor Victor Clay

Sermon Title: The Servant's Relationship with Elders
Sermon Text: 1 Timothy 5:17-25
Sermon Purpose: To call the hearer to relate to church elders in a way that is biblical and impartial.
Sermon Proposition: There are 3 basic concepts related to the ministry to Elders.

17 Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine. 18 For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,”[a] and, “The laborer is worthy of his wages.”[b] 19 Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses. 20 Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear. 21 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. 22 Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people’s sins; keep yourself pure. 23 No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities. 24 Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later. 25 Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden. 1 Timothy 5:17-25 (NKJV)

1. The church's ministry to faithful Elders. v.17a

   • The church is to be governed by Elders. v.17a

   • Elders refer to the spiritual mature male leadership of the church. (Acts 20:17, 28)

   • Elders make up the governing board of the church. (1 Timothy 4:14)

   • Elders operate at different levels of responsibility.

   • The church is to be modeled by Elders.

   
   

2. The church is to honor faithful Elders. v.17b-18

   • Elders are to be honored attitudinally. (1 Thess. 5:12-13; Hebrews 13:7)

   • Elders are to be honored financially. (Deuteronomy 25:4; Luke 10:7)

   
   

3. The church is to discipline unfaithful Elders. v.19-20

   • There must be adequate confirmation of sin. (Deuteronomy 19:15)

   • There must be public discipline if they are unrepentant. (Galations 2:11)

   • There must be correction with integrity and impartiality.

   
   

4. The church is to properly select Elders. v.22-25

   • Elders must be chosen and ordained slowly. v.22a

   • Elders must be chosen and ordained carefully. v.22b (Acts 13:3; 1 Timothy 4:14; 1 Timothy 1:6)

   • Elders are to be selected based on their spiritual qualifications. v.23-25