New Testament

1 Timothy 5:4

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the focus is on the responsibility of family members, particularly children and grandchildren, to care for their widowed relatives.

Author
Paul the apostle
Written
Around AD 62-66
Genre
Letter (pastoral epistle)
Original Audience
Timothy and the Ephesian church
CBTClear Bible Translation

But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they should first learn to show piety at home and repay their parents, for this is good and acceptable before God.

KJVKing James Version

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.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the focus is on the responsibility of family members, particularly children and grandchildren, to care for their widowed relatives. It emphasizes that they should first learn to show respect and kindness at home. This means taking the time to honor their parents and repay them for the care they provided. Such actions are not just good manners; they are also pleasing to God. The idea is that caring for family is a fundamental part of living a life that reflects faith. By prioritizing family obligations, individuals demonstrate their commitment to love and support one another. This verse encourages a culture of gratitude and responsibility within families, highlighting the importance of nurturing relationships. Ultimately, it reminds us that our actions towards our family members are a reflection of our values and beliefs, and they hold significance in the eyes of God. Taking care of our loved ones is a way to express our faith in action, showing that we value the bonds that connect us.

Key themes

Related topics

faith, fear, strength

How to apply 1 Timothy 5:4 to your life

Consider how you can support your family members, especially those who may be in need. Take time to express gratitude for what your parents or grandparents have done for you. Small acts of kindness can strengthen family bonds and reflect your values in everyday life. Remember, caring for family is a meaningful expression of love and faith. It matters to God and to those you love most deeply.

Curated for this public verse page. 1 Timothy Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does 1 Timothy 5:4 teach about caring for widows?

1 Timothy 5:4 emphasizes the responsibility of children and grandchildren to care for their widowed family members. It highlights the importance of showing respect and kindness at home, suggesting that family members should honor their parents and repay them for their past care. This verse underscores that such actions are not only good manners but also pleasing to God, reflecting a life of faith.

How can I apply 1 Timothy 5:4 in my family?

To apply 1 Timothy 5:4, start by assessing how you can support your family members, especially those who may be widowed or in need. This could involve spending quality time with them, offering assistance, or simply expressing gratitude for their sacrifices. Small acts of kindness, like helping with chores or listening to their stories, can strengthen family bonds and demonstrate your commitment to love and support one another.

What does 'show piety at home' mean in this verse?

'Show piety at home' in 1 Timothy 5:4 means to demonstrate respect, kindness, and care within the family. It encourages individuals to prioritize their family relationships and responsibilities, reflecting their faith through actions that honor and support their parents and grandparents. This concept highlights that true faith is expressed through how we treat our loved ones.

Why is honoring parents important according to the Bible?

Honoring parents is important in the Bible because it reflects a fundamental principle of respect and gratitude within family relationships. In 1 Timothy 5:4, this act is seen as good and acceptable before God, emphasizing that caring for family members is a way to live out one's faith. It fosters a culture of love, responsibility, and support, which are essential values in a believer's life.

The Book of 1 Timothy
Book Summary

The Book of 1 Timothy

1 Timothy 1: Charge to Timothy and the Law's Purpose

Paul introduces himself as an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour and the Lord Jesus Christ. He addresses Timothy, calling him his son in the faith. Paul urges Timothy to remain at Ephesus and command certain men not to teach other doctrine or give attention to endless genealogies and fables that produce questions rather than godly building up in faith. He says the goal of the commandment is love from a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith. Some have turned aside into empty talk and desire to be teachers of the law without understanding what they say.

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