1 Timothy 5
1Do not rebuke an older man, but entreat him as a father; and the younger men as brothers; 2The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, in all purity. 3Honour widows who are widows indeed. 4But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety at home, and to repay their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God. 5Now she who is a widow indeed, and left all alone, trusts in God, and continues in supplications and prayers night and day. 6But she who lives in self-indulgence is dead while she lives. 7And these things give as commands, that they may be blameless. 8But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his own household, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever. 9Let a widow be placed on the roll only if she is at least sixty years old, having been the wife of one man, 10Having a reputation for good works; if she has brought up her children, if she has shown hospitality to strangers, if she has washed the saints' feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, if she has devoted herself to every good work. 11But refuse to enroll the younger widows: for when their sensual desires cause them to disregard their dedication to Christ, they will marry; 12Thus incurring condemnation, because they have cast aside their first pledge. 13Besides, they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but also gossips and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. 14Therefore, I want the younger women to marry, bear children, guide the house, and give the adversary no occasion to speak reproachfully. 15For some have already turned aside to follow Satan. 16If any woman who believes has dependent widows, let her assist them, and let the church not be burdened; that it may relieve those who are widows indeed. 17Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially those who labour in preaching and teaching. 18For the scripture says, You shall not muzzle the ox that treads out the grain. And, The labourer is worthy of his wages. 19Do not receive an accusation against an elder, except on the evidence of two or three witnesses. 20Those who continue to sin, rebuke before all, that the others may fear. 21I solemnly charge you before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the chosen angels, that you observe these things without favouring one over another, doing nothing with partiality. 22Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, nor share in other men's sins: keep yourself pure. 23No longer drink water only, but use a little wine for your stomach's sake and for your frequent ailments. 24Some men's sins are evident, going before them to judgment; and for some men they appear later. 25So also, good works are evident; and even those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.
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