1 Timothy 5:1-2 Respect

Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, to the younger men as brothers, the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity. [1 Timothy 5:1-2 NASB]

There is a Greek word that is used only once in the entire Bible. It is translated here as "sharply rebuke". The literal meaning is "to strike, or to lash out". In other words, don't harshly berate your elders. Instead, treat your elders with respect, as you would your own father.

This shouldn't be taken to mean that a leader shouldn't rebuke an elder at all, only that he does so respectfully. Paul said;

Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning. [1 Timothy 5:20 NASB]

The younger men are to be treated as equals. Timothy may have a position of authority, but that does not make him better than them. We are all equal under Jesus Christ, who is the head of us all.

In the same way, the older women are to be treated with the same respect that is shown to the older men, and the younger women are to be treated as equals as well.

There is an added dimension when a man is dealing with young women. Paul tells Timothy that his relationships with them must be "in all purity." A man of God must never be inappropriate with a woman. That includes more than just overt actions. There should be no flirting, no suggestive language, and no double entendres.

While this letter is addressed to Timothy in his role as an apostle, the principles apply to all believers.

The concept of "respect your elders" is largely lost in modern society. Instead of respect we get a dismissive "okay boomer." The younger generation is saying that their elders are irrelevant, and rather than treating them with respect, they speak to them and about them with contempt.

Young Christians need to keep themselves far from this attitude. Do not give in to the pressure of your peers in putting down older people. This is not just for the sake of your elders, but for your own relationship with God. If you are an example of godliness, showing respect, then you can influence your peers to do better.

Regarding relationships between men and women, sexual scandals have been a blight on the church since the early days. Paul addresses this situation in Corinth;

I have decided to deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of his flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. [1 Corinthians 5:5 NASB]

There is no room for sexual immorality in the Christian church. Many formerly respected pastors have been brought down by their sin.

Vice President Mike Pence was mocked by the media when he said that he never allows himself to be in a room alone with a woman who is not his wife. Instead of being mocked, he should be praised for his wisdom.

I once had a college professor ask a class, "Is there a man in this room who can prove that he has never raped a woman?" As we discussed and considered the question, it became clear that the mere accusation of a private event is nearly impossible to disprove. The solution, of course, is to never allow yourself to be in a position where you can be accused.

A pastor should never counsel a woman alone behind closed doors. Leaders aren't the only ones at risk. I once knew a man and woman who shared a ministry which often put them alone during the church service. Then they started to see each other outside of the service, and eventually had an adulterous affair.

Whether you are a man or a woman, it is okay to refuse to be put in a potentially compromising position. you can say "no".

Christians need to stay above reproach in our relationships, whatever that relationship may be. We must be respectful and humble, and we must be mindful of Jesus Christ who lives within us, and of His reputation.

Heavenly Father, I pray for wisdom and Your love when dealing with people. Please remind me to be humble and respectful in all of my words and actions. Give me the grace to bring You into every relationship.