The problem with writing a daily devotional is the same as systematic preaching working through a book of the Bible verse by verse. Suddenly you arrive on a certain topic and you know what’s going to happen if you preach on it. People think you are referring to someone in particular or worse still themselves and you have used the pulpit to challenge what you already know . The option is to jump the verse but what’s the point in that?
So with that said let’s proceed.
We are going to read what Paul says next about church.
Paul gives crucial guidance on how to handle one of the most delicate situations in church life: accusations against spiritual leaders.
Most ‘elders’ have received false accusation. I know I have and often it is not wise or even possible to publicly bring the truth of the matter because of confidentiality. I have also been rightly accused and apart from the unkind packaging, within it, I saw the truth and apologised quickly.
No ‘elder’ is above criticism nor accountability.
“Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. But those elders who are sinning you are to reprove before everyone, so that the others may take warning.” – 1 Timothy 5:19-20
Those in positions of spiritual authority often face increased scrutiny and potential attacks. Leaders make difficult decisions, address sin, and sometimes deliver uncomfortable truths—actions that can generate opposition and false accusations.
Paul quotes the Old Testament law as Jesus does in Matthew 18:16. What does this mean: serious accusations require corroborating testimony.
The reasons are obvious. Lives can be ruined when falsehood is believed. When accusations fly without proper verification, churches can split, trust erodes, and the gospel witness suffers in the community.
However, this protection must not become a shield for actual wrongdoing. Paul makes that clear when talking about ‘elders’ who are found to have sinned.
- Leaders are not above the moral and ethical standards they teach others. In fact they are held to higher standards due to their influence and responsibility.
- Public acknowledgment of leadership failures helps protect the congregation from ongoing harm and maintains transparency.
- Rather than covering up or handling things quietly, public accountability demonstrates the church’s commitment to holiness and truth.
- Leaders should understand both their protections and their responsibilities.
- God cares about protecting innocent leaders from harm while also ensuring that those who abuse their positions face consequences.
Paul’s instructions remind us that leadership in the church is not a privilege to be protected at all costs, nor is it a position to be attacked without cause.
Missions Paul 