May 25, 2025 | Zach Schlegel
Passage: 1 Timothy 5:17-25
When a leader of an organization is involved in a scandal, it undermines the credibility of the organization. This is not just true of businesses, educational institutions, or even the government. It is also true of the church. An annual Gallup Poll asks people to rate the honesty and ethical standards of people in various occupations. Over the last 50 years, clergy have gone from high up on the list for having honesty and ethical standards down to the middle of the pack. This could be the result of our 24-hour news cycle broadcasting scandal after scandal and never putting the focus on faithfulness. While this is a lopsided view of the big picture, sadly, there are times when there is a scandal in a church that hurts the witness of that leader and the church.
Such was the situation of the church in Ephesus where Timothy was the pastor. Remember Hymenaeus and Alexander from chapter one? They rejected a good conscience and made a shipwreck of their faith, tarnishing the witness of that church. The church is the pillar and buttress of truth, serving the living God who has the power to change lives. In Chapter four, Paul called Timothy to train for godliness. Timothy was to set an example for the church. His life was to reflect the truth that he taught. Paul told Timothy to watch his life and his doctrine carefully. This is something that we all must do.
Sermon Outline
1. Honor faithful elders. Vs. 17-18
2. Hold elders accountable. Vs. 19-21
3. Hand pick new elders carefully. Vs. 22-25
Series Information
