New Testament
1 Timothy 5:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
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.
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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.
What 1 Timothy 5:4 means
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.
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
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Keep studying 1 Timothy 5:4
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Timothy
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 62-66
- Genre
- Letter (pastoral epistle)
- Original Audience
- Timothy and the Ephesian church
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.
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