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1 Timothy 5:17
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17 Let [axioo] the elders [presbuteros] that rule [proistemi] well [kalos] be counted worthy [axioo] of double [diplous] honour, [time] especially [malista] they who labour [kopiao] in [en] the word [logos] and [kai] doctrine. [didaskalia] KJV-Interlinear
17 Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. NASB
In chapter three, the word for senior instructor was ‘bishop,’ and in the beginning of chapter five, our word here for elder was used for senior men, or men of advanced age.
However here, the word for elder is used in conjunction with, rule, and is a reference to the senior person who is the overseer of the church or organization or study group, the teacher or instructor, as the case may be.
He is the teacher of doctrine, ‘labor in the word and doctrine.’
Paul seemingly switches over from the support of widows, who are represented as being in a helpless state, to that of Bible instructors, worthy of honor or respect. And at first glance it seems to be an odd transition of subjects.
However, just as in general, people do not think of widows and supporting them, so too, people do not think of Bible teachers, and the support that is due to them. Out of sight generally means out of mind. And free access likewise is presumed to be free of obligation.
Remember back in chapter two, when there were several prayer requirements for Christians. One of them was to pray for doctrine and for instructors to teach it. For without doctrine and teachers, you would have nothing with which to build a relationship with God and therefore you would not have a life of any value.
Some might believe that they can learn on their own, but that is a fantasy and a delusion. If teachers were not required, then the subject would not be covered in the scriptures.
However, Christians approach apostasy when they violate several fundamental principles of Christianity, and this is one of them, support of those who teach doctrine.
Double honor, means both in respect and in finances. It does not mean double a wage or salary of sorts, but it does refer to generosity through giving. And generosity means to give without hesitation, regret or resentment. It also means to give through paying attention in class as in an academic setting. To attend class or study or church, whichever applies in your case, and to attend on a regular basis.
The Christian has an obligation to go to class, listen, learn, and support the teaching of the scriptures, just as they are under an obligation to participate in the support of widows, helpless persons, etc.
There is no rate or formula for giving. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were under the Levitical code which called for a ten percent tax for the government, a ten percent tithe for the Levitical Priesthood, and in every third year, an additional ten percent donation for the poor of the land. However, that code is no longer valid, and you are no longer under its obligation. Of course a maximum of ten percent to the government (for all taxes would be nice these days).
Anyway, in a spiritually weak society, you will find that the financial support of the church is lacking among Christians, while the financial support that unbelievers offer to their false churches, is busting at the seams. This is one of the many signs that exists or will exist as apostasy increases in the world. You can easily look around you and find examples of this principle, and you can also look at your own life and decide how your beliefs fit into this principle.
Do you feel any obligation to obey Gods mandate, or do you have a list of excuses as long as your arm which justify your avoiding it?
Support has nothing to do with the one receiving the support, nor the amount of the support. It has everything to do with the giver’s attitude.
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