It Starts Small

 ²² Don’t be too quick to appoint anyone as an elder, and don’t share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure. ²³ Don’t continue drinking only water, but use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses. ²⁴ Some people’s sins are obvious, preceding them to judgment, but the sins of others surface later. ²⁵ Likewise, good works are obvious, and those that are not obvious cannot remain hidden.

1 Timothy 5:22-25

Don’t be too quick to appoint anyone as an elder,

Elders or leaders usually passionately lay their hands upon those chosen for a sacred task. They may even anoint them as elders themselves. This act resonates with an undeniable intensity, akin to a powerful ordination that stirs the soul. It is absolutely vital for Timothy to approach this responsibility with fervent dedication. Choosing the wrong person can unleash chaos upon the church, inflicting lasting wounds that echo through time. Instead, it is much wiser to embrace patience. Observe with unwavering diligence over a long period. Resist the intense urge to make a hasty decision of such monumental importance.

but use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses

Timothy is wholeheartedly committed to a life free from alcohol, steadfast in his convictions. Yet, Paul worries this choice might impact Timothy’s health. He gently encourages him to indulge in just a touch of wine. This discourse reveals a profound truth: drinking alcohol is not inherently wrong for a believer. While some may see any form of alcohol consumption as sinful, this perspective lacks biblical grounding. After all, Jesus transformed water into wine, affirming that self-control and moderation are essential virtues. Choosing to abstain is a noble path. However, let us remember that those who do partake, albeit in moderation, should not be met with judgment.

Some people’s sins are obvious

Eventually, every good deed and every wrongdoer will be brought into the blazing light of truth. Many actions, both virtuous and wicked, are glaringly apparent, visible to all without exception. Yet, there are other deeds, whether noble or nefarious. They lurk in the shadows. They wait for the relentless march of time to unearth them. Some transgressions may remain shrouded in secrecy until that ultimate reckoning, when justice will finally be served.

Why does Paul tell this to Timothy?

It serves as a powerful reminder that judgment is inevitable! We must remain vigilant and discerning, for not everyone presents themselves truthfully. Even within the visible church, there lurk occasional wolves in sheep’s clothing. Leaders must exercise caution and resist the urge to promote individuals too hastily. The importance of accountability and transparency cannot be overstated if we are to preserve our integrity!

We have all heard the heart-wrenching tales. We believed them to be devout individuals. However, we later discovered they were merely wearing a mask. It is imperative for churches to safeguard their communities by exercising greater discernment from the start. Consider this: Sunday School programs can unwittingly become hunting grounds for sexual predators. That’s why many churches mandate background checks for their Sunday School teachers. This is a crucial step in protecting our children. It also helps safeguard our faith. Similarly, as individuals, we must approach monumental decisions—like marriage or choosing a business partner—with the utmost caution. Do not rush into these alliances blindly! First, commit to truly understanding the person behind the facade. This knowledge is vital to ensuring your future is secure.

---

Discussion Questions

• What does laying on of hands refer to?
• What does verse 23 teach us about believers and alcohol?
• What is the meaning of verse 24?
• Why does Paul tell Timothy that good deeds are obvious and can’t be hidden?

---

© Kimberlee Smith 2025 http://www.itstartssmall.com All rights reserved.