Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, to the younger men as brothers, the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity. 1 Timothy 5:1-2
When my buddy Dale and I were leading a church plant in Northern California, we often said- let’s make sure everyone who comes to the church is treated like a family member. If an older woman attends, treat her like you mom, etc. Why? Because one day our kids will go to a different church, and we hope someone will treat them like family.
The apostle Paul told Timothy to keep that ‘like family’ ethic in the church in Ephesus. Talk to older men with respect and never with a sharp rebuke. Treat guys the same age like your brother, older women like your momma, and the young women as little sisters (in all purity). What a great way to relate to one another. I have been the beneficiary as many of our older adults treat me like a brother or son.
Who can I treat like a family member today? Is there anyone who God has come into the life of the church that I have missed and not engaged like family?
God, as this day begins, I thank you for the kindness always shown me in the church. Use me to love people in your name and treat others like family.
