Heralds Digest

"Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine." (1 Timothy 5:17 NKJV) Ordinary honour means a great fortune to followers. After all, they are used to giving honour, and not receiving. Therefore, it is natural for followers to pay attention to rules. Unlike followers, rulers are tempted to rule without paying attention to rules for self-use. However, elders who accept to be ruled by the word of God will not abuse the privilege to lead others. This implies that a double honour is worth the reward for any elder who sees the ruling of self as primary responsibility.

"Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses." (1 Timothy 5:19 NKJV) Experiences with the challenges in all affairs of life, including family, job, business, etc, can only make anyone who is not marred by his previous engagements. Therefore, an elder's judgment is fairly sacred to anyone who care to learn from past experiences. As a young minister with dynamic faith in the word of God, Timothy was warned to be wary of accusation levelled against elders, without verifiable evidence. Elder's honour admits the fact that whatever it takes to survive the wickedness within the system of the world in the past is likely to sustain life against future challenges. Ultimately, elder's experience advantage cannot be bought with the wealth of a novice's sophistication.