Concerning Elders

17 aThe elders who brule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who cwork hard 1at preaching and teaching.

18 For the Scripture says, “aYou shall not muzzle the ox while he is threshing,” and “bThe laborer is worthy of his wages.”

19 Do not receive an accusation against an aelder except on the basis of btwo or three witnesses.

20 Those who continue in sin, arebuke in the presence of all, bso that the rest also will be fearful of sinning.

21 aI solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels, to maintain these principles without bias, doing nothing in a spirit of partiality.

22 aDo not lay hands upon anyone too hastily and 1thereby share bresponsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself 2free from sin.

23 No longer drink water exclusively, but ause a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.

24 The sins of some men are quite evident, going before them to judgment; for others, their sins afollow after.

25 Likewise also, deeds that are good are quite evident, and athose which are otherwise cannot be concealed.