1 Timothy 5 19

1 Timothy 5:19 kjv

Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.

1 Timothy 5:19 nkjv

Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses.

1 Timothy 5:19 niv

Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses.

1 Timothy 5:19 esv

Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses.

1 Timothy 5:19 nlt

Do not listen to an accusation against an elder unless it is confirmed by two or three witnesses.

1 Timothy 5 verses

1 Timothy 5 19 Meaning

This verse instructs Timothy, and by extension the church, that a formal accusation against an elder (a spiritual leader) should not be entertained or acted upon unless it is supported by the corroborating testimony of at least two or three credible witnesses. This rule safeguards church leaders from malicious, false, or unsubstantiated charges that could unjustly damage their reputation, ministry, and the unity of the congregation, while also upholding a biblical standard for justice.

1 Timothy 5 19 Context

First Timothy, part of Paul's pastoral epistles, provides detailed instructions for the proper functioning and order of the church in Ephesus, where Timothy served. Chapter 5 addresses various groups within the congregation, including younger and older believers, widows, and particularly elders. Verses 17-18 emphasize the honor due to diligent elders. Verse 19, immediately following, provides a critical safeguard for these esteemed leaders, balancing their deserving of honor with the need for a just process should accusations arise. It reflects the gravity of bringing charges against someone in a position of authority and responsibility within the sacred assembly, aiming to prevent baseless attacks that could undermine leadership and cause internal division. The verse implies that while elders are indeed accountable, they are also worthy of protection from malicious gossip and unfounded allegations due to their crucial role in the church.

1 Timothy 5 19 Word analysis

• Do not receive (μὴ παραδέχου - mē paradéchou): This is a strong imperative prohibition. Paradéchomai means to receive, welcome, or accept as valid. In this context, it implies "do not entertain," "do not give credit to," or "do not proceed with." It's not a command to ignore or never listen to an accusation, but to not take it seriously or act upon it without proper corroboration. It signifies judicial discretion rather than a blanket dismissal of all complaints.
• an accusation (κατηγορίαν - katēgorian): Refers to a formal charge or a public denouncement, distinct from mere gossip or rumor. It suggests an intention to bring someone to account or judgment, often in a legal sense, for wrongdoing. The gravity of such a formal charge necessitates a high standard of evidence.
• against an elder (κατὰ πρεσβυτέρου - kata presbyterou):
  • against (κατὰ - kata): In this context, denotes opposition or directed at.
  • an elder (πρεσβυτέρου - presbyterou): This term, presbyteros, refers not merely to an older person but specifically to an appointed leader in the early Christian church. Elders functioned as overseers (bishops) or spiritual guides, holding significant responsibility for teaching, governing, and shepherding the flock. Their moral integrity and reputation were crucial for the stability and credibility of the church. Accusations against them could greatly undermine the church's health and witness.
• except on the basis of (ἐκτὸς εἰ μὴ ἐπὶ - ektos ei mē epi): This phrase introduces a conditional exception. It sets a mandatory minimum standard for the consideration and validation of any accusation.
• two or three witnesses (δύο ἢ τριῶν μαρτύρων - dyo ē triōn martyron): This is a direct reference and application of the Mosaic Law principle found in passages like Deut 17:6 and Deut 19:15, which required the testimony of multiple witnesses (at least two, and ideally three for extra certainty in serious matters) to establish guilt in a capital case or other significant legal dispute. This principle was adopted into the judicial practice of both Jewish and early Christian communities to prevent false accusations, ensure truthfulness, and uphold justice. The witnesses must be credible, independent, and corroborating, testifying to the same facts from personal knowledge. This stipulation is paramount for fairness and reliability.

1 Timothy 5 19 Bonus section

The concept of "witnesses" in this context is deeply rooted in Jewish legal tradition. A "witness" (martys) was not just someone who observed an event, but someone whose testimony held legal weight, capable of proving guilt or innocence. This standard was meant to counter situations where a single person might harbor ill-will or spread false rumors, thereby protecting vulnerable individuals, especially those in positions of leadership who are often targets of scrutiny. This rule applies to formal charges intended to result in disciplinary action against an elder, not merely to hearing a concern or a personal complaint that may lead to private counsel. The "witnesses" should ideally be direct observers of the alleged wrongdoing, not just repeaters of hearsay. This verse implies that dealing with leaders requires greater discretion due to their spiritual authority and the potential impact their downfall could have on the wider community's faith and trust.

1 Timothy 5 19 Commentary

First Timothy 5:19 provides a crucial standard for maintaining justice and order within the early church, especially concerning its leaders. Paul's instruction to Timothy emphasizes the necessity of protecting elders from unsubstantiated or malicious accusations. This rule is not intended to shield elders from accountability for actual sin, but rather to ensure due process and to safeguard their office and reputation from frivolous charges or personal vendettas. By requiring the corroboration of "two or three witnesses," the verse elevates the standard of proof, reflecting Old Testament judicial principles designed to prevent conviction based on a single, potentially biased, testimony. This protects against gossip and political maneuvering within the church, which could undermine spiritual authority and cause disunity. When a formal accusation is brought against an elder, the evidence must be strong, independent, and verifiable. This does not mean that every minor complaint requires multiple witnesses, but any charge grave enough to warrant formal disciplinary action (such as public rebuke or removal from office) demands this high evidentiary standard. It promotes a system of fairness, caution, and reverence for those God has called to lead His flock. For practical usage, churches must establish clear internal policies reflecting this principle, ensuring transparent and just processes for addressing concerns about leaders, balancing protection for elders with accountability for their conduct.