RESPECT AND RESPONSIBILITY. 1Timothy 5:1-16 Courteous behavior is expected among members of any family. An assembly of believers resembles a family with different age groups, each with unique characteristics and personal rights that all members should respect. Respect is essential for the well-being and harmony of God's people. Those who lead and teach divine truths in a biblical manner hold the responsibility of maintaining order. To avoid accusations of inappropriate conduct, it is important to treat all believers in the assembly with respect and dignity.
Interpersonal relationships among the Lord’s people in an assembly are inevitable and important. They can greatly benefit when they are formed, conducted, and nurtured to befit those who are children of God. The Holy Spirit in each believer unites us into a family-like community when each person is committed to the Lord and His people. There is a family love among Christians: “We know we have passed from death unto life because we love the brethren.”
However, living as a family among believers from very different backgrounds requires biblical guidance and personal counsel from those who are mature in God’s ways. A faithful leader provides counsel and correction when we go wrong and encourages us when we do right. Offering correction involves constructive criticism and scriptural solutions to life’s inevitable issues. We especially need their help with our interactions and relationships with the opposite sex.
Someone who exhorts makes sincere appeals fueled by love and concern for others. Such exhortation intends to protect, advise, encourage, support, and if needed, discipline for correction. The Lord’s people must understand what it means to be part of and to live in the house of God.