Brother T. R. Etheridge has been a friend of ours for years. And has been preaching the Word of God for six decades! One night last week in a short Revival Meeting he and his Wife Betty helped prepare a meal for Debbie and me, food accompanied by great fellowship. Memories about serving Jesus!

Today’s Lesson …

Recently I thought a little about the older, faithful Preachers God has brought into my life. And what a help they have been to me, especially in those younger years.

Paul certainly addressed this subject. For example, in 1st Timothy 5:17 he admonished: “Let the elders (preachers, especially pastors) that rule (lead their people) well be counted worthy of DOUBLE HONOUR, especially they who labour in the word (expounding the Scriptures) and doctrine.”

Wow!

The adjective “diplous” means “double” for sure, and is even translated “twofold more” in Matthew 23:15. Its meaning is obvious.

But in today’s religious culture too often the emphasis is on the younger men. (Thank God for them, too!) I’ve noticed Churches nowadays seek younger Pastors, not older ones. No doubt each situation should be considered individually … but I am telling you … we often overlook a lot of wisdom and experience and counsel and love … by automatically ignoring the senior Men of God!

Oh, I fondly remember those who helped me so much. Dr. John V. Ray in college days. Dr. R. C. Henry in the prayer room. Dr. W. A. Criswell as an expositor. Dr. Oliver B. Greene and Dr. Jack A. Green helped me start my library, one that has grown through the years. And so many more …

Do you have an older Preacher in your life?

A former Pastor?

The one who won you to the Lord?

Oh yes, young Preachers, I encourage you to have such a “mentor” in your life. An older seasoned Preacher who can advise you as your grow in your ministry. (Even the President has a “cabinet,” you know.) Elisha had an Elijah, for a while. Timothy had a Paul.

Here’s today’s verse again: “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.”

Do something kind (on “double honor” level) for him today, that older Preacher you love.

— Dr. Mike Bagwell