“Some people’s sins are obvious, preceding them to judgment, but the sins of others surface later. Likewise, good works are obvious, and those that are not obvious cannot remain hidden.” (1 Timothy 5:24-25)
Chapter 5 is full of instructions around a number of topics: communication, delivering criticism, supporting widows, leadership appointments, charges against elders, etc. The chapter concludes (verses 24 and 25 mentioned above) with a certainty that is derived from Biblical truths found in other parts of the Bible. Isa 40 tells us how God knows ALL THINGS and Ps 139:2-23 gives further detail that He knows everyoneʻs thoughts, deeds, and words. As fellow creatures, we need to trust him in situations to provide justice or reward, as the case may be. We should also be patient and not quick to judge (negatively or to make someone a hero) since only God knows the human heart and, sometimes, we won’t see the truth until some time in the future.
- Regarding wine (verse 23) Paul might be considering “It is not for Kings or rulers to drink wine lest they drink, forget the laws, and are unjust” (Pro 31:4-5, paraphrase mine) and “He…makes wine that gladdens hearts” (Ps 104:14-15) – a little wine to help Timothyʻs stomach.
- Regarding widows (verses 3-16) truth described in Acts 6, Pro 22:6, Psalm 127, Ecc. 12:14, and other Old and New Testament passages are rendered down for details on how to identify and support those truly in need.
- Regarding selecting leaders (verse 22) we are warned, similar to many Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, teaching in James 3, etc. to be careful and cautious about appointing Elders.
We should know God’s word and memorize it (Deut 6:4) so when we encounter various life situations, we can draw on what the entirety of the Bible says about a subject. Scripture helps us to fight against temptation to sin (Ps 119:9), gives joy and protects us (Ps 19). It’s not just the New Testament or just a few “key” books, but “All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness” (2 Tim 3:16). Paul knew God’s word inside and out and drew on that knowledge to give sound instruction to Timothy. Take your knowledge of God’s truth and just do it! That good action is wisdom. We should use the knowledge found throughout Scripture to help us with everything we do because when we apply it, and it’s not just head knowledge, we glorify God by shining His light in the dark world around us.