1 Timothy 5:17
“Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.”
THOSE WHO LABOR
In writing to Pastor Timothy, the Apostle Paul provided direction in two key areas of church management, beginning with rewarding those who rule well by lovingly and carefully watching over God’s people. Paul could have stopped right there since without these the body would suffer, but then with special emphasis he adds, “especially those who labor in the Word and doctrine.”
Those who take the Bible and its doctrines seriously are becoming difficult to find, which makes Paul’s words all the more relevant to our times. The evil days that are upon us have spawned ecumenical pulpiteers – men whose only desire is the attention and praise of men. To them, the charge to “Convince, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and teaching”
(2 Timothy 4:2) falls on deaf ears and dull hearts.
A pastor’s calling is to feed his flock the perfect Word of God,
and this requires work.
TOILING IN PRAYER
When the Bible is taught well from the pulpit it is because the greater part has been done behind closed doors. Unseen by the congregation are hours spent toiling in prayer and preparation of the message. And as sure as the day is long, there are the attacks of the wicked one. Satan’s enticements to water-down or nullify the Scriptures – combined with his fiery darts launched against the preacher – of this invisible war, Paul was well versed.
Believer, pray for those who rule well in your church. Pray for those who teach the Word to you. Pray, pray, and then pray some more!
– Pastor Jack
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