1 Timothy 5:9-16
9 “A widow is to be put on the list only if she is not less than sixty years old, having been the wife of one man, 10 having a reputation for good works; and if she has brought up children, if she has shown hospitality to strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has assisted those in distress, and if she has devoted herself to every good work. 11 But refuse to register younger widows, for when they feel physical desires alienating them from Christ, they want to get married, 12 thereby incurring condemnation, because they have ignored their previous pledge. 13 At the same time they also learn to be idle, as they go around from house to house; and not merely idle, but also they become gossips and busybodies, talking about things not proper to mention. 14 Therefore, I want younger widows to get married, have children, manage their households, and give the enemy no opportunity for reproach; 15 for some have already turned away to follow Satan. 16 If any woman who is a believer has dependent widows, she must assist them and the church must not be burdened, so that it may assist those who are actually widows.”
Verse 9: Paul provides specific criteria for widows to be included on the list of those receiving financial support from the church. He mentions that widows should be at least sixty years old and have demonstrated faithfulness to their husbands during their lifetime. This requirement ensures that the church’s resources are allocated to those who are truly in need and have proven themselves to be responsible and trustworthy.
Verse 10: Paul continues by highlighting the importance of a widow’s character and good deeds. He mentions specific examples such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, serving others, and devoting herself to various acts of kindness and service. These good deeds are evidence of a widow’s faith and commitment to living out the love of Christ in practical ways. This was Paul’s way of ensuring that the church’s money and assistance be used in a worthy manner.
Verse 11: Paul advises against including younger widows on the list of those receiving financial support. He explains that younger widows may be more susceptible to worldly desires and may desire to remarry, which could potentially distract them from their dedication to Christ. This guidance is given to ensure that the church’s resources are used wisely and that younger widows have the opportunity to remarry and establish new households.
Verse 12: Paul counsels younger widows to pursue marriage, have children, and manage their households. By doing so, they can fulfill their God-given roles and responsibilities, while also avoiding any opportunity for the enemy to slander or criticize them. This advice is given to promote stability, family life, and a positive witness within the community.
Verse 13: Paul acknowledges that some younger widows have already turned away from their dedication to Christ and have chosen to follow the ways of Satan. This serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential dangers and temptations that younger widows may face if they are not guided and supported in their faith journey.
Verse 14: Paul encourages believers to take responsibility for caring for widows within their own families. By doing so, they alleviate the burden on the church and ensure that the church’s resources are available to support those widows who are truly in need. This highlights the importance of personal responsibility and the role of the family in providing care and support.
Verse 15: Paul acknowledges the important role of elders in the church and emphasizes the need to honor and support them. He particularly highlights those who are involved in preaching and teaching, recognizing the significance of their ministry in guiding and equipping the body of Christ.
Verse 16: Paul supports his instruction regarding honoring elders by referencing two Old Testament passages. The first passage highlights the principle of not restricting the provision for those who are laboring, using the analogy of not muzzling an ox while it is working. The second passage emphasizes the principle that workers deserve to be compensated for their labor. These references serve to reinforce the importance of honoring and supporting those who are faithfully serving in leadership roles within the church.