In the Apostle Paul’s letter to Timothy, we find invaluable wisdom about leadership within the church. One such passage, 1 Timothy 5:22-25, addresses the careful selection and oversight of church elders (pastors). This section emphasizes the need for discernment, thorough vetting, and accountability to safeguard the spiritual health of the church.
1 Timothy 5:22–25
22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure. 23 Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities. 24 Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after. 25 Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.
First, let me say a word about the "wine." Paul urged Timothy to use “wine” for the sake of his weak stomach. Commentators view this seeming excursus as relating to Paul’s command “keep thyself pure.” Assuming an alcoholic nature to the wine (which is not certain), Timothy’s abstinence was likely based on his desire for purity. Paul urged the medicinal use of “wine,” alleviating Timothy’s concerns about purity. The larger context, of course, is an admonishment concerning the selection of church elders (pastors). This blog post will be about that subject.
A Case for Caution in Ordination
Paul writes, “Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure” (1 Timothy 5:22). Ordination is not just a ceremony but an endorsement of a man’s character, ministry, and calling. Churches are warned to proceed cautiously, as hasty decisions can lead to complicity in future sins or failures.
Why Caution is Necessary
Visible Sins and Hidden Dangers
Some sins are evident (“open beforehand”), while others only manifest later (“they follow after”). Churches must conduct background checks, speak with references, and review a candidate’s ministry history. Patterns of unresolved issues often signal future problems.
For example, a pastor in Georgia was implicated in theft and fraud, largely due to failures in accountability. A thorough vetting process might have exposed potential red flags, saving the congregation from scandal.
Evaluating Character and Commitment
Beyond surface-level observations, this passage also leads us to investigate the potential pastor's character and commitment. Churches should consider:
Laziness: Does the candidate have a record of diligent service?
Accomplishment: Has he demonstrated measurable ministry success? "the good works of some are manifest beforehand"
Spousal Involvement: The man's wife will have key insights about her husband's character and commitment. Is his wife actively supportive of his ministry? Scripture suggests a strong partnership is vital (1 Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:6).
Unforeseen Challenges
Even with thorough vetting, no process is foolproof. Problems can arise later as temptations and pressures mount. Churches must establish systems of accountability to provide ongoing support and oversight.
Best Practices for Vetting Pastoral Candidates
To ensure a church chooses wisely, consider these steps:
Conduct Comprehensive Checks
Perform background and credit checks.
Contact all references and request secondary ones.
Speak with previous churches, pastors, and ministry colleagues.
Contact the ministry school from which he graduated. If he did not go to a Bible college, why not? What type of preparation (academic and/or practical) has he had for ministry?
Engage the Entire Search Committee
Share findings openly among committee members to allow for prayerful discernment.
Address any “red flags” directly with the candidate. Caring for these matters before he becomes pastor is much better than having to deal with them after.
The church is not looking for a "perfect" pastor...there are none. A loving and wise church can anticipate problems and they can help a man in certain areas so that he might improve as a pastor and leader.
Assess Long-Term Potential
Look for evidence of good works (1 Timothy 5:25). A pastor with a history of fruitful ministry is more likely to continue leading effectively. Keep in mind that "good works" come in all kinds of different ways. If a man is a new pastor, one must look at his previous ministry engagements (of whatever type they are) and ascertain his usefullness in those areas. If A man has not had much visible "success" this does not necessarily eliminate him. Be sure to throughly explore the situation and consider it in its context. "Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid."
Establishing Accountability
Paul’s instructions underscore the need for ongoing accountability. Accountability manifests in various ways.
Spousal Accountability: A pastor should be wisely transparent with his wife about finances, ministry activities, and personal struggles.
Peer Accountability: In plural elder leadership, pastors should feel free to challenge and support one another without fear of reprisal.
Deacon Involvement: Although deacons should consider themselves the pastor's "boss," deacons serve as vital partners in addressing concerns discreetly and biblically.
Congregational Involvement: If issues arise, members should follow Matthew 18:15-17 to address concerns with grace and respect.
Safeguarding the Future
Ultimately, careful vetting and robust accountability are not just about avoiding problems but about fostering an environment where good works can flourish. A pastor’s “good works” may not always be immediately apparent, but with time and faithful service, his ministry will bear fruit that cannot be hidden (1 Timothy 5:25).
By exercising caution and adhering to biblical principles, biblically-based churches can stand firm in the face of cultural challenges and protect their congregations from unbiblical practices. Let us commit to prayer, wisdom, and discernment in seeking leaders who will shepherd God’s people with integrity and faithfulness.
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