1 Timothy 5:17 – “The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.”
Extended Explanation
This verse shifts focus from the care of widows to the treatment of church leaders-specifically elders. Paul is giving guidance on how to honor and value those who serve faithfully in leadership roles within the church. He says that elders who lead well-those who are diligent, faithful, and effective in overseeing the church-deserve not just honor, but “double honor.”
This “double honor” likely includes both deep respect and financial support. In the next verse (1 Timothy 5:18), Paul quotes Scripture to show that workers deserve to be paid. Paul is not saying church leaders should be treated like royalty, but that those who pour themselves out in leadership and especially in the work of preaching and teaching should be cared for and honored in a generous and respectful way.
He singles out those who preach and teach because they are shaping the spiritual lives of the entire church. Their role is weighty and essential, and their faithful labor is worthy of extra recognition and support.
Historical Context
In the early church, elders (also called overseers or pastors) were men appointed to lead and care for the local congregation. Their responsibilities included teaching, leading in worship, guiding the church in truth, and caring for the spiritual health of the people.
Some of these elders were likely bi-vocational, working other jobs to provide for themselves. Others may have been fully supported by the church so they could devote themselves full-time to ministry. Paul is telling Timothy that when an elder serves well-especially in teaching-he should be honored with both respect and, when possible, financial support.
In a time when Christians were often poor or persecuted, giving “double honor” meant making sacrifices to ensure leaders could continue their work. Paul is emphasizing the importance of valuing faithful leadership, not taking it for granted.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that spiritual leadership is not to be taken lightly-either by the leaders themselves or by those they serve. God places leaders in the church to guide, teach, protect, and shepherd His people. When they serve well, it brings health to the whole body.
It also shows that God cares about justice and fairness. Those who labor for the good of others, especially in feeding them God’s Word, should be treated with dignity and cared for practically. Honoring church leaders is one way the church reflects God’s care and order.
This verse also highlights the unique role of preaching and teaching. While all believers are called to live out and share God’s truth, some are given the special task of regularly feeding the church with sound doctrine. That role carries both high responsibility and deep value.
Literary Analysis
The verse begins with a clear subject: “The elders who direct the affairs of the church well.” The phrase “direct the affairs” points to leadership, oversight, and spiritual guidance. Paul then adds that these men are “worthy of double honor,” which is both a commendation and a command. The final part singles out those “whose work is preaching and teaching,” emphasizing that not all elders may preach, but those who do carry a unique role.
The structure builds from general (elders who lead well) to specific (those who teach and preach). The repetition of the word “honor” connects back to earlier verses in the chapter (honoring widows and others), tying the theme of respect and care together.
Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Timothy 3:1–7 – Paul lists the qualifications for elders, showing the kind of character and maturity required for this role.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13 – “Acknowledge those who work hard among you… Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.”
- Hebrews 13:17 – “Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority… Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden.”
- Galatians 6:6 – “The one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.”
- Luke 10:7 – “The worker deserves his wages.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse is a reminder to respect and support faithful church leaders. When a pastor, elder, or teacher works hard to lead well and teach truth, we should respond with gratitude, encouragement, and practical support.
This also applies to how we speak about church leaders. Instead of criticism or neglect, we’re called to honor them-especially when they serve humbly and well. That doesn’t mean ignoring sin or error, but it does mean treating leadership as a gift from God, not something to take lightly.
For church leaders, this verse is a call to serve with integrity and excellence. Leading well and teaching truth is not just a job-it’s a calling that shapes lives and honors Christ.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God is a God of order and care. He raises up leaders in His church not to lord it over others, but to serve, teach, and guide. This verse shows that God values faithful service and calls His people to recognize and reward it.
It also reflects God’s love for His people-He gives them shepherds to feed them His Word, protect them from error, and lead them in truth. And He loves those shepherds enough to ensure they are honored and supported.
God’s love shows up in how we treat those who serve us. He wants the church to be a place where leaders and people care for each other in humility and grace.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the perfect Shepherd, the ultimate model for all church leaders. He said, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). Every elder or pastor is called to follow His example-serving with love, teaching truth, and leading with humility.
Jesus also taught that “the worker deserves his wages” (Luke 10:7), affirming the idea that those who labor for God’s people should be supported and honored.
And through Jesus, the church becomes a spiritual family-where everyone has a role and no one is overlooked. Elders serve the body, and the body supports and honors them in return. It’s a picture of mutual love and service, grounded in Christ.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you show honor and encouragement to the leaders who serve faithfully in your church?
- What does “double honor” look like in practical terms for your church community?
- Are you praying regularly for your pastors and teachers? Why is that important?
- How can churches ensure their leaders are both respected and held accountable in love?
- If you are in a leadership role, how does this verse challenge you to lead and teach with excellence?