1 Timothy 5:4
1 Timothy 5:4
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Widows with children or grandchildren should be cared for by their own family, which pleases God.
What Does 1 Timothy 5:4 Mean?
Paul makes a distinction: a widow with children or grandchildren has a family to care for her. Those relatives should learn to show their faith first at home.
Caring for one's own parents and elders is a way of repaying the love once received, and it pleases God. Paul roots family duty in godliness itself. Faith that does not begin at home has missed something near to its heart.
In the Original Language
eusebeo (εὐσεβέω), 'shew piety' -- to act with reverent devotion, here toward family.