The thought expressed in the phrase “apt to teach” suggests that the shepherd is to be skilled in teaching. According to Meyers, he is “one who possesses everything that fits him for teaching, including also the inclination or the willingness.” [1] While being “apt to teach” does not prevent others from teaching, it certainly includes elders actively involved in it (1 Tim. 5:17). Why would Paul require that an elder be skilled in teaching if he did not intend for them to do it? There is too much evidence that strongly teaches that the elder’s fundamental role is that of teaching. Let’s explore some of them. Hebrews 13:7 reads,
Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.
When Paul discusses the honoring of elders in 1 Timothy 5:17,18, he writes of those who rule well being deemed worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in word and teaching. From the context, the honor speaks of monetary reward for their labors. I have heard it taught that Paul distinguishes between ruling elders and teaching elders, creating two classes of elders, i.e., non-teaching elders and teaching elders. This is a terrible misapplication of this passage. The interpretation neglects their primary role of teaching imposed on all shepherds, and the use of the word, “especially.”
[1]Meyer, H.A.W., Meyer’s Commentary on the New Testament, Vol. 9, pg. 119.