Paul has already addresses elders in 1 Timothy. However, he returns to the topic to give some further instruction in the fifth chapter. This isn’t as much a job description, as in chapter three, but seems to be more corrective in nature.

Take a look for yourself in 1 Timothy 5:19-20:

In the previous couple of verses, Paul’s concern is for the care and compensation of elders who give their lives wholly to the ministry, forsaking other means of generating an income. Paul expects the church that Timothy is directing to take charge and help these men provide for their families.

But in these verses, his tone changes. Here he is addressing the steps to be taken when an elder is found to be in sin.

He gives Timothy two guidelines to follow:

• Timothy is not to accept any charges against an elder unless they are brought by more than one person. In other words, the charge must be certain.
• Timothy is to reprimand the elder publicly, once guilt has been established.

The concept here is simple. Paul is reiterating what is found in the Old Testament Law, from Deuteronomy 19:15. One witness is not enough to establish that a person is guilty; there must be two or more witnesses. Paul’s intent here seem to be protective of the reputation of the elder. After all, those in leadership positions seem to have accusations leveled at them frequently, often unfounded.

The second part of the instruction is probably included because Timothy was in the midst of dealing with just such an issue. Earlier in this chapter (5:1), Paul instructs Timothy to not rebuke an older man harshly. So how is to deal with a sinning elder? Respectfully, and in a public forum, so that he sees the severity of his actions, and so that others who witness it may take warning.

But what “others”? The Greek context indicates others of the same category, meaning other elders. However the public nature of the rebuke opens up the possibilities to all those who see it may grow in their relationship with the Lord as well.

While this isn’t the most encouraging passage in this chapter of Paul’s letter, the intent is for good. Paul’s desire is that the leaders of the church in Ephesus are men of integrity and honor, bringing that honor and all glory to Christ.

Has your church ever had to discipline someone in leadership? How did it turn out? You can leave your thoughts in the comments section below.