1 Timothy 5:17 “Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.”
The apostle Paul writes to pastor Timothy, directing him in two key areas of church ministry. First, Timothy is instructed to reward those who labor at ruling, caring, loving, and watching over their fellow believers. Second, he is to turn an even keener eye toward pastor-teachers who labor in the Word and doctrine.
Sadly, those who hold scripture and doctrine in high esteem are fewer and fewer. The evil days in which we live have spawned ecumenical pulpiteers—men uninterested in the things of God, yet lovers of the attention and praise—to the ruin of the body of Christ.
There are many reasons to honor those called to proclaim God’s Word, not the least of which are the unseen yet very real pressures inherent in their labors. Those who teach invest heartfelt prayer into each message, asking God for illumination and direction. They devote themselves to rightly dividing the Word of truth for the benefit of their hearers. And yet, little is said of the fiery darts and invisible soldiers that war against them in an attempt to twist, water down, or nullify the message. But as sure as the day is long, they must ward off the devilish attacks of the wicked one. All the while, pastors are called to tend to the needs of those under their care. Pray for them!
Honor for those who “rule well,” especially those who labor in the Word and doctrine.
– Pastor Jack
Click here to read all of Jack Hibbs’ Weekly Devotionals at Real Life with Jack Hibbs.
