The “Do’s” and the “Do Not’s”
1 TIMOTHY 5: 1-25
(October 20)
I like lists. There is satisfaction to be found in checking off completed items and feeling like you have accomplished something. I also like things spelled out for me, so I don't have to spend my time guessing. What is allowed, what is not; the "do's" and the "do not's".
In today's reading, Paul is giving the believers of Thessalonica a list of things they are TO DO and NOT TO DO. He does this in the hopes of keeping them growing in the faith and living a life that is pleasing to God, without allowing the enemy to penetrate their hearts.
He talks about how we are to speak to other people. He spells it out pretty clearly that we are to treat others just like family, with respect, grace, and gentleness.
He talks a lot about widows. He defines the TRUE widow as "someone who is at least sixty years old and was faithful to her husband, well respected by everyone because of the good she has done, has brought up her children well, has been kind to strangers and served other believers humbly, has helped those in trouble, and always been ready to do good." (Vs. 9-10)
In those days, it was crucial that the church take care of these widows. They didn't have a 401K or Social Security to fall back on. There was no life insurance left behind for her, and really no jobs of value. Basically, they had no way to support themselves.
If they had family, it was that family's responsibility to care for her. A family was not supposed to pass that responsibility off to others, but to care for the widow and see to her needs and support.
Those widows who had no family were in grave danger of poverty. The church was to step in and offer care and support. The widow, in turn, would serve the church. I think of Naomi, with both sons and her husband gone. What would've happened to her if Ruth didn't step up and provide for her?
What about the younger widows? Paul advised them to remarry and spend their days caring for their new family.
He goes on to speak about the Elders of the church. According to Paul, these Elders deserved respect and payment for their preaching and teaching. He backs up that claim with several scriptures. He warns against gossip about an Elder. He also stated that those who sin should be reprimanded in front of the whole church. WOW!! That would be EMBARASSING!!
And when it comes to choosing a church leader? Paul advises that they take their time. Pray over it. Right now, my church is without a youth pastor. There is someone filling in temporarily, but the Elders of the church are being very prayerful and patient about who they choose to guide the youth in our church. They want to make sure our youth stay focused on Jesus and growing in their faith.
Have you heard the saying "To whom much is given, much is required"? Well ... much has been given to us as believers. We have received grace beyond measure, incomparable love, and unbelievable promises. In turn, we need to give much ... our prayers, our patience, our respect, our love, our kindness, and our thoughtful consideration to covering all the "do's" and "do not's" spelled out in God's word.