17 ^uLet the ^velders who ^wrule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. 18 ^xFor the Scripture says, ^y“You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain,” and, ^z“The laborer deserves his wages.” 19 Do not admit a charge against an elder except ^aon the evidence of two or three witnesses. 20 As for those who persist in sin, ^brebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear. 21 ^cIn the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of the elect angels I charge you to keep these rules without prejudging, ^ddoing nothing from partiality. 22 ^eDo not be hasty in the laying on of hands, nor take part in the sins of others; keep yourself pure. 23 No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments. 24 The sins of some people are conspicuous, going before them to judgment, but the sins of others appear later. 25 So also good works are conspicuous, and ^feven those that are not cannot remain hidden.