1 Timothy 5:1

KJV

¶ Rebuke not an elder, but intreat [him] as a father; [and] the younger men as brethren;

KJV (with Strong's)

Rebuke {G1969} not {G3361} an elder {G4245}, but {G235} intreat {G3870} him as {G5613} a father {G3962}; and the younger men {G3501} as {G5613} brethren {G80};

Complete Jewish Bible

Do not rebuke an older man sharply, but appeal to him as you would to a father; treat younger men like brothers,

Berean Standard Bible

Do not rebuke an older man, but appeal to him as to a father. Treat younger men as brothers,

American Standard Version

Rebuke not an elder, but exhort him as a father; the younger men as brethren:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Timothy 5:1 provides crucial pastoral instruction from Paul to Timothy, guiding him on how to appropriately address and interact with different age groups within the Ephesian church. The verse emphasizes a nuanced approach to correction and counsel, advocating for respectful entreaty towards older men, akin to addressing a father, and a fraternal spirit when engaging with younger men, treating them as brothers. This directive underscores the importance of wisdom, love, and tailored communication in Christian leadership and community life, fostering an environment of honor and mutual respect.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's practical instructions for church order and conduct in his first letter to Timothy, his protégé leading the church in Ephesus. Chapter 5 specifically delineates guidelines for various demographics within the Christian community, beginning with the treatment of elders (both in age and office), then moving to younger men, older women, younger women, and widows. The immediate verses following [1 Timothy 5:1](/1-timothy/5-1 "1 Timothy 5:1 - Rebuke and Entreaty") continue this theme, instructing Timothy on how to treat older women as mothers and younger women as sisters with all purity ([1 Timothy 5:2](/1-timothy/5-2 "1 Timothy 5:2 - Respect for Women")). This opening verse thus sets the tone for a pastoral approach characterized by familial respect and gentle persuasion rather than harsh confrontation, particularly when dealing with those who are older or hold positions of spiritual authority.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's instructions to Timothy reflect both the specific challenges of the burgeoning Christian community in Ephesus and broader Greco-Roman and Jewish cultural norms. Ephesus was a prominent city, a hub of diverse religious and philosophical thought, and the church there faced internal issues as well as external pressures. In both Jewish and Roman societies, respect for elders was a deeply ingrained value, often associated with wisdom, experience, and authority. Paul leverages this cultural understanding, elevating it with Christian principles of love and familial unity. Timothy, being relatively young for a church leader, would have found these specific guidelines invaluable in navigating his leadership responsibilities without undermining his authority, especially when needing to address older members or established leaders.

* **Key Themes:** The verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes in 1 Timothy and the broader Pauline corpus. It highlights the theme of **Pastoral Leadership and Conduct**, emphasizing that effective leadership is not merely about authority but about embodying wisdom, humility, and love in all interactions. It underscores the **Importance of Respect and Honor** within the Christian community, particularly towards those of advanced age or spiritual office, echoing Old Testament commands to honor the aged, as seen in [Leviticus 19:32](/leviticus/19-32 "Leviticus 19:32 - Respect for the Aged"). Furthermore, it champions **Gentle Persuasion over Harsh Reprimand**, advocating for an approach to correction that seeks to restore and build up rather than to shame or alienate. This aligns with Paul's broader teaching on the nature of love as the supreme virtue in Christian conduct, as beautifully articulated in [1 Corinthians 13](/1-corinthians/13 "1 Corinthians 13 - The Superiority of Love"). Finally, the familial language ("father," "brethren") reinforces the theme of the **Church as God's Household**, where relationships are characterized by mutual care, respect, and a shared spiritual bond.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Rebuke (Greek, _epiplḗssō_):** This word, derived from a root meaning "to strike" or "to beat," carries the connotation of a sharp, harsh, or even violent reprimand. It implies a forceful, confrontational, and potentially humiliating verbal assault. Paul's prohibition here is against such an aggressive and demeaning form of correction, especially when directed at an elder, recognizing that such an approach would be counterproductive to spiritual growth and disrespectful to their age and potential office.
* **Intreat (Greek, _parakaléō_):** In stark contrast to "rebuke," _parakaléō_ means "to call near," "to invite," "to implore," "to exhort," "to comfort," or "to encourage." It suggests a gentle, persuasive, and compassionate approach, characterized by respectful appeal rather than forceful demand. This term is notably used to describe the Holy Spirit as the "Paraclete" or "Comforter" ([John 14:16](/john/14-16 "John 14:16 - The Promise of the Holy Spirit")), highlighting its association with gentle guidance and supportive counsel.
* **Elder (Greek, _presbýteros_):** This term refers primarily to an "older person" or "senior." In the context of the early church, it could refer to older men in general, deserving of respect due to their age and experience, or to those holding the specific ecclesiastical office of "elder" or "presbyter" within the church, who were responsible for spiritual oversight and teaching. The instruction applies to both, emphasizing that age and/or office warrant a particular kind of respectful address.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Rebuke not an elder":** This opening clause delivers a clear negative command. Timothy, despite his leadership position, is explicitly forbidden from using a harsh, confrontational, or scolding manner when addressing an older man, whether an elder in age or in church office. This prohibition underscores the paramount importance of respect for age and experience within the Christian community, even when correction or counsel is necessary.
* **"but intreat [him] as a father":** This clause provides the positive alternative to "rebuke." Instead of harshness, Timothy is to "intreat" or gently appeal to the elder. The simile "as a father" is crucial, implying a relationship characterized by deep respect, honor, and affectionate reverence. One would not harshly scold a father, but rather approach him with deference, persuasion, and a desire to maintain the relationship, even when difficult truths need to be spoken.
* **"[and] the younger men as brethren":** This final clause extends the principle of respectful, familial interaction to younger men. While not explicitly contrasting "rebuke" with "intreat" for this group, the implied approach is one of fraternal love and equality. Younger men should be treated as fellow members of God's family, implying a relationship of mutual respect, support, and direct but loving communication, akin to how one would engage with a brother.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Contrast** and **Simile** to convey its profound pastoral wisdom. The **Contrast** is stark between "rebuke" (_epiplḗssō_) and "intreat" (_parakaléō_), highlighting two diametrically opposed approaches to communication and correction. This juxtaposition emphasizes the preferred method of gentle persuasion over harsh confrontation, especially when dealing with those deserving of honor. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Simile** twice: "as a father" and "as brethren." These comparisons draw upon the deeply understood familial relationships to illustrate the appropriate tone and posture for Timothy. Treating an elder "as a father" evokes a sense of reverence, respect, and tender appeal, while treating younger men "as brethren" suggests equality, mutual love, and direct yet supportive fellowship. These literary choices effectively communicate the nuanced and relational nature of pastoral care.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse beautifully encapsulates the New Testament's emphasis on relational ethics within the church, viewing the community of believers as a spiritual family. It elevates the principles of honor, respect, and love above mere hierarchical authority, advocating for a leadership style that is both firm in truth and gentle in spirit. The call to "intreat" rather than "rebuke" aligns with the broader biblical emphasis on restorative justice and compassionate engagement, even in the face of sin or error. It reminds us that the goal of Christian correction is always edification and reconciliation, not humiliation or condemnation. This approach fosters a healthy church environment where individuals feel valued, and difficult conversations can occur within a framework of mutual respect and love, reflecting the very character of God who is both just and merciful.

* [Leviticus 19:32](/leviticus/19-32 "Leviticus 19:32 - Reverence for the Aged")
* [Titus 2:2-6](/titus/2-2-6 "Titus 2:2-6 - Instructions for Different Age Groups")
* [Philippians 2:3](/philippians/2-3 "Philippians 2:3 - Humility and Esteeming Others")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Timothy 5:1 offers timeless wisdom for navigating relationships within any community, especially the church. It challenges us to consider not just *what* we say, but *how* we say it, particularly when addressing sensitive issues or engaging with those older or in positions of authority. The instruction to "intreat as a father" calls for a profound level of deference, patience, and gentle persuasion, recognizing the dignity and experience that comes with age. This principle extends beyond formal church leadership to all our interactions, encouraging us to foster an atmosphere of honor and respect in our homes, workplaces, and social circles. Similarly, treating younger individuals "as brethren" promotes a spirit of genuine fellowship, equality, and supportive mentorship, where guidance is offered with brotherly love rather than condescension. Ultimately, this verse compels us to cultivate a communication style rooted in agape love, seeking to build up, restore, and preserve relationships, even when difficult truths must be shared. It reminds leaders that true authority is often best exercised through humble service and compassionate engagement.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific relationships in your life (family, church, work) might you need to apply the principle of "intreating as a father" instead of "rebuking"?**
* **How does the instruction to treat younger men "as brethren" inform your approach to mentoring or guiding those who are less experienced than you?**
* **What are practical ways to cultivate a spirit of honor and gentle persuasion in your communication, even when you disagree or need to offer correction?**
* **How does understanding the difference between "rebuke" and "intreat" impact your view of healthy conflict resolution within a Christian community?**

### FAQ
**Who is "an elder" in this context, and does it refer only to church leaders?**

Answer: The Greek word *presbýteros* (elder) in [1 Timothy 5:1](/1-timothy/5-1 "1 Timothy 5:1 - Rebuke and Entreaty") can refer to both an older man in terms of age and to an ordained church leader (presbyter). While the immediate context of 1 Timothy often discusses church leadership, the broader application of this verse suggests that Paul intends for Timothy to show respect to all older men within the congregation, regardless of whether they hold a formal office. The principle is one of honoring age and experience, which is a biblical value (e.g., [Leviticus 19:32](/leviticus/19-32 "Leviticus 19:32 - Respect for the Aged")). However, it certainly includes those who are elders in office, emphasizing that even leaders must be approached with respect and not harshness.

**Why does Paul differentiate the approach for "elders" and "younger men"?**

Answer: Paul differentiates the approach because of the varying dynamics and expectations associated with age and maturity. Older individuals, whether due to their life experience, wisdom, or formal position, are generally accorded a higher degree of respect in most cultures, including the biblical one. To "rebuke" an elder harshly would be seen as deeply disrespectful and counterproductive, potentially causing shame and alienating them. Instead, a gentle, persuasive "entreaty" is called for, akin to how one would respectfully appeal to a father. For "younger men," the relationship is framed as "brethren," implying a more egalitarian and direct, yet still loving and supportive, interaction. This distinction highlights Paul's pastoral wisdom in advocating for tailored approaches to communication based on the individual's age and relational standing within the community, always aiming for edification and unity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Timothy 5:1, with its emphasis on gentle persuasion and respectful engagement, finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. While not directly prophesying Christ, the verse outlines a pastoral ideal perfectly embodied by the Good Shepherd. Jesus, though possessing all authority, consistently approached individuals with compassion and understanding, even when delivering challenging truths. He did not "rebuke" the repentant sinner but "intreated" them with grace, as seen in His gentle restoration of Peter after his denial ([John 21:15-19](/john/21-15-19 "John 21:15-19 - Jesus Restores Peter")). He treated His disciples not as mere subordinates but as "friends" and "brothers," fostering a familial bond that transcended hierarchical distance ([John 15:15](/john/15-15 "John 15:15 - Jesus Calls Disciples Friends"); [Hebrews 2:11](/hebrews/2-11 "Hebrews 2:11 - Jesus Not Ashamed to Call Them Brothers")). Christ is the perfect example of one who perfectly balanced truth with love, demonstrating how to speak difficult words with a heart of grace and a desire for restoration. His life and ministry provide the paradigm for all Christian interaction, teaching us to approach every person, regardless of age or status, with the same honor, patience, and redemptive love that He extended to humanity, thereby building up the family of God for which He gave His life ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Leviticus 19:32

Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man, and fear thy God: I [am] the LORD.

1 Peter 5:5

¶ Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

1 Peter 5:6

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

Titus 2:2

That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.

1 Peter 5:1

¶ The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:

Galatians 6:1

¶ Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

1 Timothy 5:19

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