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1 Timothy 5:19
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19 Against [kata] an elder [presbuteros] receive [paradechomai] not [me] an accusation, [kategoria] but [ei me] [ektos] before [epi] two [duo] or [e] three [treis] witnesses. [martus] KJV-Interlinear
19 Do not receive an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses. NASB
In every social organization, whether it be a group organized for entertainment, competition, social gatherings, church services, or for some other reason, you will find those who are not in charge, who will resent those who are in charge, and the reverse is true too. This inordinate competition, or social discord leads to gossip and maligning and disruption from within the organization.
If this type of social disruption is allowed to go unchecked, then the entire organization will fall apart or even split apart, or cease altogether.
Therefore, Paul applies the principle of Deut 19:15 and Matt 18:16, wherein two or three witnesses with first hand knowledge of some sort of infringement, must come forward before any accusation may be brought against the church leadership.
The word for receive, ‘paradechomai,’ means to receive, or to entertain, or to consider. Therefore, if credible evidence is presented, then it is to be investigated. If the evidence proves to be nothing more than gossip, or simply a disagreement of opinion, then it is to be dismissed or ignored.
The accusation is to be of a criminal or immoral nature, which is a violation of duties of the office of the elder.
Just not liking someone or disagreeing with them, is no basis for an accusation.
An accusation, ‘kategoria,’ means complaint, or criminal charge. The magnitude of the accusation needs to be severe enough that legal due process is justified.
Pettiness, gossip, political struggles for control and so forth, do not fit into this scenario. If leadership is to be changed, then the member can either leave the organization, or abide by the rules of change by voting and election, as the organization calls for. This means that any change must be accomplished in an orderly fashion, and not by vigilante force.
As far as churches or study groups are concerned, the content of the scriptures are their first priority. If that is not the case, then you certainly have the right to bring your recommendations before those who are in charge. But, you do not have the right to disrupt the organization by means of unsubstantiated or irrelevant accusations.
If at all possible, always work from within the organization to bring about change. Never try to seize control or force change by means of devious or violent methods.
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