Thoughts

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Young Pastors Dealing With Older Members

Paul’s advice to Timothy in chapter 5, on how to deal with different age groups is very good. I have known young pastors who went counter to this advice, very much to the detriment of their ministry. When a young so-called leader does not properly honor the more senior members, feelings are hurt and it is very hard for the young pastor to regain the respect the seniors would like to give him, had he honored their many years of service to the Lord.

This even happened to me. I used to attend a church here in my hometown of Riverside, CA. As some of you know, I ran most of the tech, for well over 20 years, at the church before this one I’m referring to. And then I got involved in doing a small bit of tech at the new church. Everything was going very well until a new, young person was hired. And this new person’s job included overseeing my area of responsibility. And this person began to micromanage what I was doing, completely ignoring my previous experience, which they were well aware of. But since I’m an “old guy”, this person edged me out. I finally quit, which was what this person was trying to accomplish. I’m not bitter about it, but at the same time, I won’t stay where I’m not wanted. There are places I can serve and be welcomed. I’m not boasting, but that church could have benefitted from my experience. 

Young Pastors Dealing With Elders and Deacons

In regards to elders and deacons in the church, Paul tells Timothy to do something that is seldom done today. Paul tells Timothy to reprimand the leaders in his church who sin, and do it publicly so that other leaders will be afraid to not live godly lives. Can you imagine that being done today? It would be good for the church to do this today, because Christians have the reputation of being hypocrites. If the world saw us cleaning up our own ranks, I believe we would have more credibility when we make moral statements about cultural issues.

Be Cautious When Choosing Whom To Ordain

Paul tells Timothy to be cautious in ordaining someone. He says that some sins are obvious, but others take time to be found out. Hence the “don’t rush to ordain” instruction. Conversely, some good and godly men are known by the nature of their service, but others serve God in such a way that they go unnoticed. Paul wants Timothy to be on the lookout for these folks, too. 

My late father-in-law was one of these types of servants. Unassuming and quiet, he did many things in the church that were behind the scenes. He was never one to draw attention to himself or what he was doing, but because of his integrity and his servant’s heart, he became known as one of the finest men in the church, and served many terms as an elder. He’s been with the Lord many years now, and is still remembered and loved by those who knew him. Including yours truly.

Stay The Course

Paul’s advice in the sixth chapter has to do with servants doing their jobs well, for the name of Christ, encouraging Timothy to remain true to the teaching he got from Paul, the damage that comes to those who lust for wealth, and a reminder to fight the good fight. 

It’s easy, when in the trenches, to get distracted by the attacks of the enemy. But when we keep the goal in mind, when we don’t stray from the basics we will make it through and accomplish the task to which we are called. This is true for pastors and it is true for the rest of us, as well. 

Today's Bible Translation

Bible translation used in today's episode: Ch. 40-41 NIV, Ch.