From the Pulpit...

Churches should keep themselves pure by avoiding the temptation to hastily appoint elders. Churches should allow for a period of time to evaluate the work and character of a man, allowing time for disqualifying sins to surface that might otherwise go unnoticed. Paul warns of the danger of acting hastily. Churches should avoid the guilt and responsibility of appointing men who later demonstrates themselves unfit for ministry. Paul writes a parenthetical remark to Timothy concerning using wine to help with Timothy's frequent illnesses. This passage is not to be used as an endorsement for social drinking.