1 Timothy 5:17, 18 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine.… Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the Word and doctrine. I. THE CLASS OF PERSONS HERE REFERRED TO. 1. It is evident that the apostle knew of no officers in the Church at Ephesus but these elders, with the deacons. 2. Their principal duty was government. It was at least the prominent element in their calling. 3. The passage suggests that, while all the elders governed, all did not labor in the Word and doctrine. Each Church in that day had its band of elders at its head, but the teaching function was not universal, though by-and-by assumed greater prominence and commanded greater distinction and respect. II. THE HONOR DUE TO ELDERS. They were to be counted worthy of double honor; that is, they were to be liberally provided for by the Church, as a special mode of showing respect to their office. III. THE GROUND FOR THIS INJUNCTION. "For the Scripture saith, Thou shall not muzzle an ox while treading out the corn. And, The laborer is worthy of his hire." These two sayings, one contained in Scripture (Deuteronomy 25:4), the other a proverbial saying used by our Lord himself (Luke 10:7), affords an argument for the support of Christian laborers. 1. This shows that both the Law and the gospel sanction the due support of the ministry. 2. It shows that the minister's support is a matter of right, and not of compassion or kindness. The animals that labored had a right to the fruit of their labors. - T.C. Parallel Verses KJV: Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. |
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