Don't rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father; the younger men as brothers;
Throughout his epistles Paul urged his readers to adopt certain attitudes toward God (to think of Him as Father, Lord, Savior, etc.) and themselves (as saints, ambassadors, sons of God, etc.). These attitudes were crucial for them to hold so they might live properly. The way we think determines how we behave. Here (1 Timothy 5:1-2) he taught a particular view toward others in the local church that is essential to success in interpersonal relationships, especially as pastors.