1 Timothy 5:20 – “But those elders who are sinning you are to reprove before everyone, so that the others may take warning.”
Extended Explanation
This verse gives guidance on what to do when a church leader-specifically an elder-is found to be in sin. Paul tells Timothy that if an elder is sinning, and it has been confirmed (as discussed in the previous verse), that elder should be publicly corrected. The goal is not to embarrass or shame, but to send a clear message that sin is serious, even for those in leadership.
This instruction is not about every minor mistake or failure. Paul is referring to serious, ongoing, or unrepentant sin. When a leader behaves in a way that harms the church or contradicts the message of the gospel, it must be addressed openly. Why? Because leaders are examples. If sin is ignored in a leader, it sends the wrong message to everyone else.
The public rebuke serves as a warning-a wake-up call to others in leadership and in the congregation that holiness matters and that no one is above correction.
Historical Context
In the early church, elders were spiritual leaders who taught God’s Word, oversaw the life of the congregation, and shepherded believers. Their role came with great responsibility-and great influence. When a leader sinned publicly or seriously, the damage could be deep and far-reaching.
Paul had already made it clear that elders should not be accused lightly (see verse 19), but now he’s just as clear that when wrongdoing is confirmed, it must not be swept under the rug. The early church needed to protect its witness, uphold truth, and maintain the integrity of its leadership.
Church discipline, even of leaders, was never meant to be cruel-it was meant to be restorative, serious, and loving. Paul is guiding Timothy to deal with such matters with wisdom, courage, and clarity.
Theological Implications
This verse reinforces the principle that no one is above accountability-not even church leaders. It teaches that the purity of the church matters, and that leadership carries weight not just in teaching, but in example.
It also shows that God expects truth to be upheld in the church, even when it’s uncomfortable. When sin is tolerated-especially in leadership-it harms the entire body and dishonors God.
Yet the verse also shows God’s grace in action. The goal of public correction is not humiliation, but repentance and warning. God wants leaders to be restored, and He wants others to walk in holiness, avoiding the same traps.
Literary Analysis
This verse uses strong, clear language: “those elders who are sinning,” “reprove before everyone,” and “so that the others may take warning.” It’s direct and weighty.
The structure follows a clear logic:
- Condition: “elders who are sinning”
- Action: “reprove before everyone”
- Purpose: “so that the others may take warning”
Paul isn’t speaking vaguely. He’s addressing a real issue in a specific way. The public nature of the rebuke matches the public influence of the elder. The warning is meant to protect others from making the same mistake.
Biblical Cross-References
- Galatians 6:1 – “If someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves…”
- Titus 1:7 – An elder “must be blameless… not arrogant or quick-tempered.”
- Matthew 18:15–17 – Jesus outlines a process for confronting sin, ending with public correction if private steps fail.
- James 3:1 – “Not many of you should become teachers… because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.”
- Proverbs 27:5 – “Better is open rebuke than hidden love.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a strong reminder that church leaders are not perfect-but they are held to a higher standard because of their role. If a leader sins, it must be taken seriously, for the sake of their soul, the church’s health, and the glory of God.
For Christians today, this means we shouldn’t ignore sin in leadership, nor should we treat it as entertainment or gossip. When a leader falls, it should be dealt with truthfully and lovingly, not with cruelty or cover-up.
It also reminds us to pray for our leaders. They carry a heavy load, and they face many temptations. They need encouragement, accountability, and support as they lead the church by example.
For those in leadership, this verse is both a warning and a gift. It calls for a life of holiness and humility, and it assures that discipline, when necessary, is part of God’s loving plan for the church.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God is holy, and He calls His people-especially leaders-to reflect His character. But He is also loving and patient. His correction is never meant to crush, but to lead people to repentance and restoration.
This verse shows that God’s love includes discipline. He doesn’t allow sin to go unchecked because He cares too much about His people. By calling out sin, especially in leaders, He protects the church and provides a way forward.
Love doesn’t ignore sin. It deals with it honestly, with the goal of healing, not harm. That’s what we see in this verse-tough love for the sake of the whole body.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the Head of the church, and He is both full of grace and truth (John 1:14). When He walked on earth, He called out hypocrisy-especially among religious leaders. He also welcomed sinners with compassion and led them to new life.
In Revelation 2–3, Jesus speaks to several churches and their leaders, calling out sin and urging repentance. His desire is always for purity in His people and for leaders to lead well.
Jesus also gave His life to make the church holy (Ephesians 5:25–27). So when leaders sin, it doesn’t just affect people-it dishonors the One who died to make the church clean. That’s why discipline is necessary-but always under the cross, where forgiveness and restoration are possible.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why is it important to handle sin among church leaders with both truth and love?
- How should a church respond when a respected leader falls into serious sin?
- What can we learn from Jesus about how to confront sin while still offering grace?
- Why does public sin sometimes require public correction?
- How can we pray for and support our church leaders in light of this verse?