Regulations for the Discipline of Elders.1 Timothy 5:19-21.
Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses. As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear. In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of the elect angels I charge you to keep these rules without prejudging, doing nothing from partiality.
Dear Elect of God,
Having dealt with the support of elders, Paul now turns to the issue of their image and integrity before the church.
Rules of Evidence (v. 19). The concept of two or three witnesses is an Old Testament standard (Deuteronomy 17:6; 19:15), which Jesus reiterates in the New Testament (Matthew 18:16). It is interesting that at the end of this age, God will send two witnesses to prophesy to the world (Revelation 11:3). We need not belabor the point. An accusation by one person is an allegation, at best. This is not to rubbish modern evidential technology (DNA, for instance, CCTV, etc) but to emphasize the importance of establishing facts.
A rebuke of Excess (v. 20). It is important to note that Paul is talking about “those who persist in sin” here. It is also worthy of note that the context is elders. Not to say that this would not apply to ordinary Christians, but the direct reference here is elders. Such are to be rebuked publicly as a warning to others. We should be gentle with those who have fallen into sin (Galatians 6:1) but no gentleness is to be exercised for those who blatantly display their sin.
Reliance on Evidence (v. 21).To underline the importance of fairness, Paul summons God, the Lord Jesus, and the angels as witnesses of his charge to Timothy, that he should have no apriori verdict before any case and that he should act in fairness and avoid all partiality. Anyone who has ever been falsely accused will appreciate what Paul is saying. The rest of us do not need to go through it. Let the experience of others suffice and on that basis, let us practice justice.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.