Detailed instructions

NORSK
The entire fifth chapter of the first letter Paul wrote to Timothy is full of detailed instructions about the internal life of the church. The details are in many ways outdated, but the spirit and the care behind the instruction form a principal of eternal value: 
As human beings we are responsible for each others' welfare in general, and in particular for those who belong to the community of believers (1).

Today, the needs for assistance Paul described, will be covered by national social security schemes in many countries. These schemes are basically founded on Christian principles of care. Even most humanists admit that these fundamental values have their origin in religious traditions. They know that statements like:

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Matt 7:12

and

‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’
Mark 12:31

Several of the instructions given in this chapter are worthy of deeper studies, but the focus of this study is what principles a mentor sees important to pass on to his mentoree. Therefore, I will chose only a few examples during the next few days.

‘Manna’ for today:

It is important to see the motive of care behind the details.

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(1) Gal 6:10