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"And these things command..."

Text: 1 Timothy 5:7

AUTHORITY IN MINISTRY

The apostle Paul was most conscious of “authority” in his ministry. Words like “charge” and “command” were employed frequently.

“And these things command, that they may be blameless.”
1 Timothy 5:7

1. A look at the use of the word “command” in Paul’s first epistle to Timothy.

a) His calling as an apostle

This was by command of the Lord (1 Timothy 1:1).

b) The charge given to Timothy

The word “charge” is exactly the same as the word used in 1 Timothy 5:7.

c) The command to teach

This was stated in an earlier text (1 Timothy 4:11).

2. “And these things command”

a) This is with reference to the ministry of caring for widows.

b) Paul’s word to Timothy was not just good advice.

c) Timothy must recognise the authority that he had.

i) It was an authority that came from Paul as an apostle of Christ.

ii) It was an authority that was his to exercise as a servant of the Lord.

d) Teaching with authority:-

i) It strengthens the word preached/ taught.

ii) It enhances the ministry addressed.

iii) It builds up the pastoral ministry.

e) Exercising authority:-

i) This must be done with wisdom.

ii) It must be exercised with understanding.

iii) It must be exercised with skill.

3. “That they may be blameless”

a) A clear goal must be borne in mind.

b) The exercise of authoritative teaching was to bring about “blamelessness”.

c) Widows and their family members can be in danger of being “blameworthy” if they did not heed the authoritative word from the Lord.