1 TIMOTHY 5:1,2: "Do not severely criticize an older man. To the contrary, entreat him as a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters with all chasteness." (NWT).

(1) If a brother in the faith whose age was say around sixty years wanted to entreat an 'older man' or 'elder' half his age, on a valid point as to the faith, and with a pure motive, how would he approach the younger brother. Would he entreat him as he would a father?

This question is to assist you in the correction of yet another false teaching of fear taught by certain men, who teach that you cannot criticise an "older man" for any reason. This scripture has been interpreted incorrectly by this sect because of the so-called authority unsealed men receive when appointed in congregations of JWs as 'elders' and given the title 'older man' -- a title even given to young men appointed by their so-called governing body. (See Pages 777, 778 & 779). 1 Timothy 5:1,2 has been erroneously used to further and falsely substantiate their false appointments to authority.

As we thankfully have our Heavenly Father's Word to put matters straight, let us use it obediently in this regard, for the scripture reveals this fact: That the "older man" referred to has the same meaning as it does toward "older women": that they should be entreated as you would your own father or mother because they are older, usually have more wisdom, and have greater experience of life. It means literally to honour these older brothers and sisters as you would your own literal fathers and mothers, and with lowliness of mind. (1 Peter 5:5).

The Greek Translation of 1 Timothy 5:1 states: "To older man not you should deal blow upon, but be you entreating as father". The New World Translation of this scripture has proven to be out of context with the Greek Translation, sufficiently to allow for this extension of error by authority-seekers among JWs.

Spiritually speaking, only anointed brothers that are obedient examples to the flock of God's inheritance are truly "elders", because they have attained to the qualifications described in Titus 1:6-9 as respects God's chosen ones: "Stewards" of His household and as such are spiritually mature men.

Because of this kind of "fruitage", Paul's words in Ephesians 5:11 are applicable to these erroneous teachers: "Quit sharing with them in the unfruitful works that belong to the darkness, but, rather, even be reproving (them)."

Furthermore, it would be wrong to severely criticise anyone, especially elderly persons in such a harsh way. But the scripture of 1 Timothy 5:1,2 embraces more than just criticism. In fact, it advocates lowliness of mind and to entreat one another, which is just the opposite to severe criticism that may incite the striking of a blow. (See Greek Translation).

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