13 And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not. 14 Therefore I desire that the younger widows marry, bear children, manage the house, give no opportunity to the adversary to speak reproachfully. 15 For some have already turned aside after Satan. 16 If any believing [a]man or woman has widows, let them [b]relieve them, and do not let the church be burdened, that it may relieve those who are really widows.

Honor the Elders

17 Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine. 18 For the Scripture says, (A)“You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,” and, (B)“The laborer is worthy of his wages.” 19 Do not receive an accusation against an elder except (C)from two or three witnesses. 20 Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear.

21 I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the [c]elect angels that you observe these things without (D)prejudice, doing nothing with partiality. 22 Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor (E)share in other people’s sins; keep yourself pure.

23 No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent [d]infirmities.

24 Some men’s sins are (F)clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later. 25 Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Timothy 5:16 NU omits man or
  2. 1 Timothy 5:16 give aid to
  3. 1 Timothy 5:21 chosen
  4. 1 Timothy 5:23 illnesses

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