Note 1 at 1 Tim. 5:1: The word "rebuke" was translated from the Greek word "EPIPLESSO" meaning "to chastise with words, to chide, upbraid, rebuke" (Thayer).

Note 2 at 1 Tim. 5:1: Paul is giving Timothy instructions on how to handle people in the church. In the first two verses of this chapter he deals with the older men, the younger men, the older women, and the younger women.

Note 3 at 1 Tim. 5:1: The term "elder" designated three major groups in the New Testament: older individuals, leaders of the Jews and leaders of the church (see note 2 at Lk. 7:3, p. 172). The Greek word "PRESBUTEROS" was translated "elder(s)" four times in this chapter and means "older." It came to be used to denote those in leadership in the church regardless of their age (see note 3 at 1 Tim. 3:1, p. 1278).

This term is used four times in this chapter, but only refers to the age of a person twice (verses 1 and 2) and the other two instances refer to people in leadership in the church (verses 17 and 19). This is deduced from the context.

Note 4 at 1 Tim. 5:1: "Entreat" is an archaic word that meant "to treat" (NAHD). Paul is telling Timothy to treat the older men as he would his father. In dealing with older individuals, the scriptures tell us to hold them in honor and respect, especially those who walk in righteousness. "The hoary head (gray hair) is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness" (Prov. 16:31).

Even when an older one errs he is to be treated with respect and dignity. This is something that younger ones (especially ministers) need to keep in mind.

Note 5 at 1 Tim. 5:1: The point Paul is making to Timothy about how to treat these four groups of people , is to treat them with love as we would treat members of our own families. Through Christ, we are all members of one family (Eph. 3:15).