17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
17 The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.
17 Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.
17 Give a bonus to leaders who do a good job, especially the ones who work hard at preaching and teaching.
17 Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.
17 Elders who do their work well should be respected and paid well, especially those who work hard at both preaching and teaching.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Timothy 5:17
Commentary on 1 Timothy 5:17-25
(Read 1 Timothy 5:17-25)
Care must be taken that ministers are maintained. And those who are laborious in this work are worthy of double honour and esteem. It is their just due, as much as the reward of the labourer. The apostle charges Timothy solemnly to guard against partiality. We have great need to watch at all times, that we do not partake of other men's sins. Keep thyself pure, not only from doing the like thyself, but from countenancing it, or any way helping to it in others. The apostle also charges Timothy to take care of his health. As we are not to make our bodies masters, so neither slaves; but to use them so that they may be most helpful to us in the service of God. There are secret, and there are open sins: some men's sins are open before-hand, and going before unto judgment; some they follow after. God will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and make known the counsels of all hearts. Looking forward to the judgment-day, let us all attend to our proper offices, whether in higher or lower stations, studying that the name and doctrine of God may never be blasphemed on our account.