The following is adapted from Jacob Jelovich’s sermon notes from Sunday 1/16/2011:

1 Timothy 5:17 – 25

How the church is to relate to Elders (vv17-25).

1. Compensation for Elders (vv17-18).
2. Double honor for Elders- respect, esteem, submission/obedience (v17). Why? > Hebrews 13:17″ Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.” James’ caution to would-be leaders: James 3:1 “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.” Material – money and other goods (v18). Deuteronomy 25:4 > 1 Corinthians 9:9 (read 1 Corinthians 9:8-12) Luke 10:7 – sending out of the 72.
3. Accusations against Elders (vv19-21). 2 or 3 reliable witnesses (v19)  If the accusations are true, Elders are to be rebuked before the entire congregation – public office = public rebuke (v20). This will generate a healthy fear of sin and the consequences thereof amongst the Eldership, Deaconship and membership.
4. Favoritism – absolutely none (v21).
5. Appointment of Elders (vv21-25). Do not be hasty in appointing Elders to leadership (v22). In so doing, if they fall, you are partially responsible for consequences. Elders character will eventually be made manifest (vv24-25). We will know who they are. Their sin will be obvious as well as their good deeds.

All who aspire to the office of Elder are to be encouraged and cautioned. It is a public office that requires strong, competent, called,  passionate leaders.