Explore the Bible Series for Jan. 15: The elderly are to be loved and respected

Posted: 1/04/06

Explore the Bible Series for Jan. 15

The elderly are to be loved and respected

• Leviticus 19:32; 2 Samuel 19:31-39; 1 Timothy 5:1-2

By Trey Turner

Canyon Creek Baptist Church, Temple

It is reported that in the last 22 years, the expected average life span has gone up 3.7 years for men but only 1.7 years for women. Medical advancement is allowing men and women to live longer, yet how will we find people to be treating us when we live the fullness of those years? Are people more hurried? Are they more frustrated with jobs, families, friends and so many responsibilities?

Some of my friends talk about not wanting to be a burden, dependent on anyone. I can appreciate people who do not want to be a burden on anyone; I do not want to be a burden, either. But have we crossed a threshold into believing that if we cannot be fully self-supporting, we have lost our value?

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It will be good to carry this discussion of human value into the church and look at biblical examples and mandates for respecting our elders. This will be a good reminder for us to wash off the dirt of this culture’s disrespect and put on our Lord’s commitment to respect all people.

Honor the elderly (Leviticus 19:32)

God thought it important enough to include as one of his commands to stand physically in the presence of those who are our elders. Respecting elders speaks highly for a society. God says his people will have respect for this segment of society. The reason he gives—because God is the Lord!

Care for the elderly (2 Samuel 19:31-36)

It is by example that David demonstrates respect for his 80-year-old friend. Barzillai had served David, and now David honors him and makes personal decisions that show David’s care in not casting him aside. David honors Barzillai.

Does our society show care for the elderly? Do I? Does the church demonstrate care? Here David was not uncomfortable with Barzillai, nor was he burdened by him. His actions reveal what is in his soul.

Accept decisions of the elderly (2 Samuel 19:37-39)

Continuing the story about Barzillai, David hears the wishes of his dear friend and helps make them happen. David does not take over the decisions for his friend, but blesses his wishes.

Today’s families are faced with questions of dignity and respect in the face of some of the most heartbreaking decisions. I have seen some of my friends struggle with the decision to take a parent’s automobile keys away. Others have struggled in regard to housing and living independently. Still others have labored through decisions of resuscitation in the last stages of life.

There are no simple answers for some of these situations. A spirit of honor and respect must be foundational before these issues are faced. Still, for believers, those decisions are made with humility before God and with solid respect for life.

Without cataloging situations and applying solutions, it will suffice for us simply to affirm the principle behind David’s respect toward Barzillai’s personal decisions.

Treat the elderly as family (1 Timothy 5:1-2)

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul gives counsel to Timothy in regard to his own humility. Timothy is in a position as a leader, but his position does not supersede his need to give personal and willful deference to those older than he. This is basic humility, which demonstrates the servant leadership central to New Testament leadership. He still is called to lead his flock; what should be his style if he cannot drive his sheep?

Paul says Timothy should reason and encourage older people with the word of God. By exhorting these brothers and sisters, one shows respect and allows the Holy Spirit to apply the words of exhortation. The relationship advocated is that of a family member. Speak to an older man as if he were your father, older women as mothers. Younger people are to be treated as little brothers and sisters.

Discussion questions

• How would you describe the way our society values or devalues senior citizens?

• What are some specific incidents you have seen positive treatment?

• Describe your participation or occasions where you have interacted with seniors.

• Do you feel you are being affected by society’s view of the elderly, or are you affecting others and their treatment?

• Is the church doing an adequate job of including and ministering to the needs of seniors? Describe how or how they are not. Who should do a better job?

• Can you make a positive difference with regard to any of these questions?