1 Timothy 5:1-6:2

How a pastor should treat the people in his church & how he should take care of himself:

1. Old men - with respect as fathers.
2. Women - as mothers & sisters.
3. Widows - These are older women who have no means of support. They have no family and no job options. The church is to provide them support while allowing them to maintain their dignity. There are some terms for support by the church:
- Widows with family members should be cared for by their family.
- Young widows should remarry, because that is where their heart will be.
- Widows under 60 are still able to work. Supporting oneself is a godly principle.
- Those receiving support from the church should be true Christians (godly women).
4. Elders - defend & respect. Do not let others spread rumors about them. Yet, they are to be held accountable for their actions.
5. Laying on of hands - this refers to a call into ministry. Timothy should use discernment when ordaining others.
6. Slaves - are equals in Christ, but must still be respectful of their Christian masters.

Himself:
1. Hold himself up to a higher standard as he is an example to the church of a godly man.
2. Take care of his health. In order to abstain from fermented drink, he was drinking only water, which was impure & causing health problems. Paul told him to mix in a little alcohol, for it would kill of the impurities in the water. This is not an approval to get drunk.