Last verse of the week guys!

Here is the text:

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1 Timothy 5:19, “Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses.”

Interesting points:
1. In this verse Paul continues addressing the treatment of elders, transitioning from honoring them to properly handling accusations made against them. This instruction provides criteria so as not to distract them from their purpose or detract from their mission. Implied is that our adversary will seek to attack them from serving as God intends.

2. As Paul constant accusations, he fully expected church leaders to endure likewise, especially if they weighed in on controversial topics and/or spoke the truth. Since the sin-loving World is likely to respond to righteousness with fear, criticism, slander, and gossip, the church should evaluate accusations involving two or more people or with a preponderance of evidence. Paul did not place elders above sinning nor accountability – as we will see in the next verse – but his words reflect confidence in both the vetting process in selecting an elder and in properly substantiating claims before taking action.

3. Paul’s instruction finds precedence in Deuteronomy 19:15, for convicting someone legally. In Matthew 18:15–20 Jesus provided guidance concerning personal sins or offenses. In such situations, the accused individual should be confronted privately first, then by one or two others if the problem could not be resolved. Should that fail, the matter should be taken to the assembly of believers.

Application.
Brothers, how easy it is to jump to conclusions and provide credibility to rumors and false testimony by not confirming statements beforehand, methodically and deliberately. Although a select few have abused their position and the trust provided them (and will be held accountable by God and man), we as the body of Christ must look at accusations with God’s wisdom and discernment, carefully gathering and sifting through witness statements and allowing the Lord to reveal the truth.
This verse underlines the need to carefully select elders (and deacons) as delineated in 1 Timothy 3.