Note 19 at 1 Tim. 5:24: In verses 23 and 24, Paul is simply saying that the sins of some are obvious and they will receive judgment now, while the sins of others are more subtle, but God will bring those sins to the light. Likewise, the good deeds of some are obvious and they will receive praise in this life, but those whose good deeds are hidden will have them made manifest in the day of the Lord.

This was no doubt meant as instruction for Timothy as he implemented Paul's directions to reward the elders who did well (v. 17) and rebuke the elders who sinned (v. 20). Not everyone is exactly who he seems to be. There needed to be some discernment and godly wisdom in these choices.