1 Timothy 5:4

Translations

Modern

But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to show godliness to their own family and repay their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God.

Traditional

But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God.

Literal

But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them learn to be devout first to their own household and to give back recompense to parents, for this is acceptable before God.

Latin

Si qua autem vidua filios, aut nepotes habet: discat primum domum suam regere, et mutuam vicem reddere parentibus: hoc enim acceptum est coram Deo.

Original

Greek

English

But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to show godliness to their own family and repay their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God.

Notes

1 Timothy 5:3–16

A widow without wealth or family was alone in a world that did not support her. The Christian community was expected to care for such widows among its members (see Deuteronomy 10:17–19; Isaiah 1:17; compare Acts 6:1–6; James 1:27). Some suggest this passage implies a religious order of widows in the first-century AD church at Ephesus. However, there is no obvious evidence of such an order, only of a ministry to help community members without financial means.

1 Timothy 5:1–6:2

Proper behavior in God's spiritual household involves everyone, including:

the old and young (5:1–2),
widows (5:3–16),
old people (5:17–25), and
slaves (6:1–2a).

Showing respect within the household goes beyond social boundaries.

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul) Concern for the Poor Social Justice

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1 Timothy 5:4

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