The Church is family

That’s true, right? I mean we know this don’t we?

In a world which is often characterised by harshness, criticism, inappropriateness, self-seeking ambitions, there is an alternative life. It’s called the Church. Paul writes at length to this Church leader about building the Church into a community where people of all ages and backgrounds are treated with dignity and respect. We will take each instruction slowly. If Paul speaks at length then it is because of its importance. So let’s be inspired by his words:-

“Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, ² older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity.” (1 Timothy 5 v 1-2)

Even older guys need correction. Their old age doesn’t mean they are beyond accountability. But the approach to the older men in the church is everything. Latre in v 20 Paul will tell Timothy there are times when elders need to be publicly corrected so it isn’t the fact that Timothy has to let the older men off the hook. But it is all about his attitude and motivation. Honour, patience and humility is what Paul is seeking rather than condescending harshness. It is not what you say but how you say it that counts. Respect the older man as if he was your father.

Younger men are your equal as brothers. Let there be banter. Let there be mutual support. Let there be shared goals. Let these spiritual ‘siblings’ experience and share in the wellbeing of you and them.

Older women need to be treated as the same as the older men. They are your spiritual mothers so let that be seen through your respect, gratitude and honour for their contributions within the church which is a nurturing role.

Younger women are your equal as sisters. If you have ever had a younger sister then you know feelings of protection that brings.

Do it all with absolute purity. A purity of motive, speech and actions regardless of age or gender.

This is the Church. This is family. Timothy make sure it happens. And we should take that instruction also.