1-timothy 5:20
Translations
King James Version (KJV)
Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
American King James Version (AKJV)
Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
American Standard Version (ASV)
Them that sin reprove in the sight of all, that the rest also may be in fear.
Basic English Translation (BBE)
Say sharp words to sinners when all are present, so that the rest may be in fear.
Webster's Revision
Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
World English Bible
Those who sin, reprove in the sight of all, that the rest also may be in fear.
English Revised Version (ERV)
Them that sin reprove in the sight of all, that the rest also may be in fear.
Definitions for 1-timothy 5:20
Clarke's 1-timothy 5:20 Bible Commentary
Them that sin rebuke before all - That is, before the members of the Church; which was the custom of the Jews in their synagogues. But, if the words refer to the elders alone, then the transgressing elder is to be reproved before his fellows, and be tried by them.
That others also may fear - This is the grand object of Church censures, to reclaim the transgressors, and to give warning to others.
Barnes's 1-timothy 5:20 Bible Commentary
Them that sin - That have been proved to have committed sin - referring probably to the elders mentioned in the previous verse, but giving the direction so general a form that it might be applicable to others.
Rebuke before all - Before all the church or congregation. The word "rebuke" properly denotes to reprove or reprehend. It means here that there should be a public statement of the nature of the offence, and such a censure as the case demanded. It extends only to spiritual censures. There is no power given of inflicting any punishment by fine or imprisonment. The power of the church, in such cases, is only to express its strong and decided disapprobation of the wrong done, and, if the case demands it, of disowning the offending member or minister. This direction to "rebuke an offender before all," may be easily reconciled with the direction in 1 Timothy 5:1, "Rebuke not an elder." The latter refers to the private and pastoral conversation with an elder, and to the method in which he should be treated in such contact - to wit, with the feelings due to a father; the direction here refers to the manner in which an offender should be treated who has been proved to be guilty, and where the case has become public. Then there is to be a public expression of disapprobation.
That others also may fear - That they may be kept from committing the same offence; compare 1 Peter 2:14. The end of punishment is not the gratification of the private feelings of him who administers it, but the prevention of crime.
Wesley's 1-timothy 5:20 Bible Commentary
5:20 Those - Elders. That sin - Scandalously, and are duly convicted. Rebuke before all - The church.