ACC ~ 1 Timothy 5 v1

GREAT DISCRETION. CHRYSOSTOM: Admonition in its own nature tends to be offensive, particularly when it is addressed to an older man, and when it proceeds from a young man, too, there is an intensified impression of forwardness. By the manner and mildness of it, therefore, one had best soften it. For it is possible to correct without offense, if one will only make a point of this: it requires great discretion, but it may be done. HOMILIES ON 1 TIMOTHY 13.

CORRECTION WITH CHARITY. LEO THE GREAT: Among our negligent and sluggish brothers there is generally something requiring correction by a sterner show of authority. But the correction should be applied so as not to destroy charity. Hence, also, the blessed apostle Paul, instructing Timothy in the government of the church, says, “Do not rebuke an elderly man, but exhort him as you would a father, and young men as brothers, elderly women as mothers, younger women as sisters in all chastity.” If, by the apostle’s direction, this moderation is to be shown to any members of lesser rank, how much more should it be displayed without offense toward our brothers and fellow bishops? LETTERS 14.1.

A RUINOUS EXAMPLE FOR YOUTH. GREGORY THE GREAT: The preacher of almighty God, Paul the apostle, says, “Do not rebuke an older man.” This rule is to be observed in cases where the fault of an older man does not draw the hearts of the younger into ruin through his example. But when an elder sets an example to the young for their ruin, he is to be confronted with severe rebuke. For of him it is written, “You are all a snare to the young.”LETTERS 9.1.

1 Tim