17 The well-leading elders of double honour let them be counted worthy, especially those labouring in word and teaching, 18 for the Writing saith, 'An ox treading out thou shalt not muzzle,' and 'Worthy 'is' the workman of his reward.' 19 Against an elder an accusation receive not, except upon two or three witnesses. 20 Those sinning, reprove before all, that the others also may have fear; 21 I testify fully, before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the choice messengers, that these things thou mayest keep, without forejudging, doing nothing by partiality. 22 Be laying hands quickly on no one, nor be having fellowship with sins of others; be keeping thyself pure; 23 no longer be drinking water, but a little wine be using, because of thy stomach and of thine often infirmities; 24 of certain men the sins are manifest beforehand, leading before to judgment, and certain also they follow after; 25 in like manner also the right works are manifest beforehand, and those that are otherwise are not able to be hid.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Timothy 5:17-25
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.