Avoid Showing Favoritism
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, I come eagerly and gladly to meet with You now. Speak to me through Your Word.
Read 1TIMOTHY 5:17-6:2
[17] The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. [18] For the Scripture says, “Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain,” and “The worker deserves his wages.” [19] Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. [20] Those who sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that the others may take warning. [21] I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism. [22] Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure. [23] Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses. [24] The sins of some men are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them; the sins of others trail behind them. [25] In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not cannot be hidden. [1] All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered. [2] Those who have believing masters are not to show less respect for them because they are brothers. Instead, they are to serve them even better, because those who benefit from their service are believers, and dear to them. These are the things you are to teach and urge on them. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
What principles about treating church leaders are given here?So often when we hear a great talk or someone at church does a great service to us we may not show our gratitude, but Paul says we should praise them (17). Also, it may be easy to try and cover up bad actions by other Christians in an attempt to “protect” the church, but Paul and God want a church based on integrity and honesty (20).
Paul warns us against showing favoritism (21). God treats everyone equally and we should as well. God is the high King of heaven and the only way that we can receive forgiveness of sins is through faith in Jesus Christ. Money, fame, beauty or connections will not save us; that is achieved only through believing in Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross.
Although we are unlikely to have slave masters we will probably have bosses or parents whom we should honor, respect and obey. If Christian bosses manage us, we should serve them wholeheartedly and respectfully. On the other hand, if you are struggling at work, remember Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”
Apply
Are you tempted to show favoritism inside or outside the church? How do you treat those you work for or manage?
Closing prayer
Lord, help me to see others just as You do, all equally loved and valuable in Your sight.
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