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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Timothy 5:4 But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to show godliness to their own family and repay their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_timothy/5-4.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/16/54_1Ti_05_04.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Timothy 5:4 - Support for Widows" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to show godliness to their own family and repay their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_timothy/5-4.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_timothy/5-4.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_timothy/">1 Timothy</a> > <a href="/1_timothy/5.htm">Chapter 5</a> > Verse 4</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad4.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_timothy/5-3.htm" title="1 Timothy 5:3">◄</a> 1 Timothy 5:4 <a href="/1_timothy/5-5.htm" title="1 Timothy 5:5">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_timothy/5.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_timothy/5.htm">New International Version</a> But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God. <a href="/nlt/1_timothy/5.htm">New Living Translation</a> But if she has children or grandchildren, their first responsibility is to show godliness at home and repay their parents by taking care of them. This is something that pleases God. <a href="/esv/1_timothy/5.htm">English Standard Version</a> But if a widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show godliness to their own household and to make some return to their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God. <a href="/bsb/1_timothy/5.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to show godliness to their own family and repay their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God. <a href="/blb/1_timothy/5.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them learn to be devout first to the own household and to give recompense to parents; for this is pleasing before God. <a href="/kjv/1_timothy/5.htm">King James Bible</a> 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. <a href="/nkjv/1_timothy/5.htm">New King James Version</a> But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety at home and to repay their parents; for this is good and acceptable before God. <a href="/nasb_/1_timothy/5.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> but if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to show proper respect for their own family and to give back compensation to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God. <a href="/nasb/1_timothy/5.htm">NASB 1995</a> but if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to practice piety in regard to their own family and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God. <a href="/nasb77/1_timothy/5.htm">NASB 1977 </a> but if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to practice piety in regard to their own family, and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God. <a href="/lsb/1_timothy/5.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> but if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to practice piety in regard to their own family and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God. <a href="/amp/1_timothy/5.htm">Amplified Bible</a> But if a widow has children or grandchildren [who are adults], see to it that these first learn to show great respect to their own family [as their religious duty and natural obligation], and to compensate their parents or grandparents [for their upbringing]; for this is acceptable and pleasing in the sight of God. <a href="/csb/1_timothy/5.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them learn to practice godliness toward their own family first and to repay their parents, for this pleases God. <a href="/hcsb/1_timothy/5.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> But if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must learn to practice godliness toward their own family first and to repay their parents, for this pleases God. <a href="/asv/1_timothy/5.htm">American Standard Version</a> But if any widow hath children or grandchildren, let them learn first to show piety towards their own family, and to requite their parents: for this is acceptable in the sight of God. <a href="/cev/1_timothy/5.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they should learn to serve God by taking care of her, as she once took care of them. This is what God wants them to do. <a href="/erv/1_timothy/5.htm">English Revised Version</a> But if any widow hath children or grandchildren, let them learn first to shew piety towards their own family, and to requite their parents: for this is acceptable in the sight of God. <a href="/gwt/1_timothy/5.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> The children or grandchildren of a widow must first learn to respect their own family by repaying their parents. This is pleasing in God's sight. <a href="/gnt/1_timothy/5.htm">Good News Translation</a> But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they should learn first to carry out their religious duties toward their own family and in this way repay their parents and grandparents, because that is what pleases God. <a href="/isv/1_timothy/5.htm">International Standard Version</a> But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to respect their own family by repaying their parents, for this is pleasing in God's sight. <a href="/msb/1_timothy/5.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to show godliness to their own family and repay their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God. <a href="/net/1_timothy/5.htm">NET Bible</a> But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they should first learn to fulfill their duty toward their own household and so repay their parents what is owed them. For this is what pleases God. <a href="/nheb/1_timothy/5.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them learn first to show piety towards their own family, and to repay their parents, for this is acceptable in the sight of God. <a href="/wbt/1_timothy/5.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> But if any widow hath children or nephews, let them learn first to show piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God. <a href="/wey/1_timothy/5.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> But if a widow has children or grandchildren, let these learn first to show piety towards their own homes and to prove their gratitude to their parents; for this is well pleasing in the sight of God. <a href="/web/1_timothy/5.htm">World English Bible</a> But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them learn first to show piety toward their own family and to repay their parents, for this is acceptable in the sight of God. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_timothy/5.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety to their own house, and to give back a repayment to the parents, for this is right and acceptable before God. <a href="/blb/1_timothy/5.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them learn to be devout first to the own household and to give recompense to parents; for this is pleasing before God. <a href="/ylt/1_timothy/5.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and if any widow have children or grandchildren, let them learn first to their own house to show piety, and to give back a recompense to the parents, for this is right and acceptable before God. <a href="/slt/1_timothy/5.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And if any widow have children or descendants, let them learn first to be pious to their own house, and to return recompenses to their progenitors: for this is good and acceptable before God.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_timothy/5.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> But if any widow have children, or grandchildren, let her learn first to govern her own house, and to make a return of duty to her parents: for this is acceptable before God. <a href="/cpdv/1_timothy/5.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let her first learn to manage her own household, and to fulfill, in turn, her own obligation to her parents; for this is acceptable before God. <a href="/nabre/1_timothy/5.htm">New American Bible</a> But if a widow has children or grandchildren, let these first learn to perform their religious duty to their own family and to make recompense to their parents, for this is pleasing to God. <a href="/nrsvce/1_timothy/5.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> If a widow has children or grandchildren, they should first learn their religious duty to their own family and make some repayment to their parents; for this is pleasing in God’s sight.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_timothy/5.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And if any of the widows have children, or grandchildren, let them know that aid should be first sought from those of their own household so that the children have the opportunity to repay their obligations to their parents: for this is acceptable before God. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_timothy/5.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> And if there is a widow who has children or grandchildren, let them learn first that they should be assigned to children of their households, and they should pay compensation to their parents, for this is acceptable before God.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_timothy/5.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> But if any widow has children or grand-children, let them learn first to be dutiful to their own family, and to requite their parents; for that is good and acceptable in the sight of God. <a href="/godbey/1_timothy/5.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> But if any widow has children, or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety to their own house, and to give benefactions to their ancestors: for this is acceptable in the sight of God. <a href="/haweis/1_timothy/5.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them learn as their first duty to shew their piety towards their own family, and make a grateful return to their progenitors: for this is becoming and acceptable before God. <a href="/mace/1_timothy/5.htm">Mace New Testament</a> if a widow has children or grand-children, let them above all things instruct their own family to be religious, and let them be grateful to their parents, for this is acceptable to God. <a href="/wey/1_timothy/5.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> But if a widow has children or grandchildren, let these learn first to show piety towards their own homes and to prove their gratitude to their parents; for this is well pleasing in the sight of God. <a href="/worrell/1_timothy/5.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> But, if any widow has children or grand-children, let them learn first to show regard to their own family, and to make returns to their parents; for this is acceptable before God. <a href="/worsley/1_timothy/5.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> But if any widow have children or grandchildren, let these learn first to shew piety at home, and to make suitable returns to their parents: for this is becoming, and acceptable in the sight of God. <a href="/parallel/1_timothy/5-4.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EkcLX59OJyU?start=636" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_timothy/5.htm">Support for Widows</a> 3Honor the widows who are truly widows. 4<a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">But</a> <a href="/greek/1487.htm" title="1487: ei (Conj) -- If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc.">if</a> <a href="/greek/5100.htm" title="5100: tis (IPro-NFS) -- Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object.">a</a> <a href="/greek/5503.htm" title="5503: chēra (N-NFS) -- Feminine of a presumed derivative apparently from the base of chasma through the idea of deficiency; a widow, literally or figuratively.">widow</a> <a href="/greek/2192.htm" title="2192: echei (V-PIA-3S) -- To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.">has</a> <a href="/greek/5043.htm" title="5043: tekna (N-ANP) -- A child, descendent, inhabitant. From the base of timoria; a child.">children</a> <a href="/greek/2228.htm" title="2228: ē (Conj) -- Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.">or</a> <a href="/greek/1549.htm" title="1549: ekgona (Adj-ANP) -- Descended, subst: a descendant. Neuter of a derivative of a compound of ek and ginomai; a descendant, i.e. grandchild.">grandchildren,</a> <a href="/greek/3129.htm" title="3129: manthanetōsan (V-PMA-3P) -- Prolongation from a primary verb, another form of which, matheo, is used as an alternate in certain tenses; to learn.">they must first learn</a> <a href="/greek/4412.htm" title="4412: prōton (Adv) -- First, in the first place, before, formerly. Neuter of protos as adverb; firstly."></a> <a href="/greek/2151.htm" title="2151: eusebein (V-PNA) -- To be dutiful, pious, show piety towards, worship. From eusebes; to be pious, i.e. to worship, or to respect.">to show godliness</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">to their</a> <a href="/greek/2398.htm" title="2398: idion (Adj-AMS) -- Pertaining to self, i.e. One's own; by implication, private or separate.">own</a> <a href="/greek/3624.htm" title="3624: oikon (N-AMS) -- A dwelling; by implication, a family.">family</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/591.htm" title="591: apodidonai (V-PNA) -- From apo and didomi; to give away, i.e. Up, over, back, etc.">repay</a> <a href="/greek/287.htm" title="287: amoibas (N-AFP) -- A change, an exchange; hence plur: reciprocal good deeds (services), a fitting requital. From ameibo; requital."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tois (Art-DMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">their</a> <a href="/greek/4269.htm" title="4269: progonois (N-DMP) -- An ancestor. From proginomai; an ancestor, parent.">parents,</a> <a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">for</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: touto (DPro-NNS) -- This; he, she, it. ">this</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estin (V-PIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">is</a> <a href="/greek/587.htm" title="587: apodekton (Adj-NNS) -- Worthy to be received (welcomed), acceptable, welcome, pleasant. From apodechomai; accepted, i.e. Agreeable.">pleasing</a> <a href="/greek/1799.htm" title="1799: enōpion (Prep) -- Neuter of a compound of en and a derivative of optanomai; in the face of.">in the sight of</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God.</a> 5The widow who is truly in need and left all alone puts her hope in God and continues night and day in her petitions and prayers.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/exodus/20-12.htm">Exodus 20:12</a> Honor your father and mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you. <a href="/ephesians/6-2.htm">Ephesians 6:2-3</a> “Honor your father and mother” (which is the first commandment with a promise), / “that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.” <a href="/matthew/15-4.htm">Matthew 15:4-6</a> For God said, ‘Honor your father and mother’ and ‘Anyone who curses his father or mother must be put to death.’ / But you say that if anyone says to his father or mother, ‘Whatever you would have received from me is a gift devoted to God,’ / he need not honor his father or mother with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition. <a href="/mark/7-10.htm">Mark 7:10-13</a> For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’ and ‘Anyone who curses his father or mother must be put to death.’ / But you say that if a man says to his father or mother, ‘Whatever you would have received from me is Corban’ (that is, a gift devoted to God), / he is no longer permitted to do anything for his father or mother. ... <a href="/proverbs/23-22.htm">Proverbs 23:22</a> Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. <a href="/proverbs/1-8.htm">Proverbs 1:8</a> Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and do not forsake the teaching of your mother. <a href="/proverbs/6-20.htm">Proverbs 6:20</a> My son, keep your father’s commandment, and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. <a href="/colossians/3-20.htm">Colossians 3:20</a> Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord. <a href="/deuteronomy/5-16.htm">Deuteronomy 5:16</a> Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that your days may be long and that it may go well with you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you. <a href="/genesis/45-9.htm">Genesis 45:9-11</a> Now return quickly to my father and tell him, ‘This is what your son Joseph says: God has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me without delay. / You shall settle in the land of Goshen and be near me—you and your children and grandchildren, your flocks and herds, and everything you own. / And there I will provide for you, because there will be five more years of famine. Otherwise, you and your household and everything you own will come to destitution.’ <a href="/genesis/47-12.htm">Genesis 47:12</a> Joseph also provided his father and brothers and all his father’s household with food for their families. <a href="/ruth/4-15.htm">Ruth 4:15</a> He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth.” <a href="/1_samuel/22-3.htm">1 Samuel 22:3-4</a> From there David went to Mizpeh of Moab, where he said to the king of Moab, “Please let my father and mother stay with you until I learn what God will do for me.” / So he left them in the care of the king of Moab, and they stayed with him the whole time David was in the stronghold. <a href="/2_samuel/19-37.htm">2 Samuel 19:37</a> Please let your servant return, that I may die in my own city near the tomb of my father and mother. But here is your servant Chimham. Let him cross over with my lord the king, and do for him what is good in your sight.” <a href="/proverbs/30-17.htm">Proverbs 30:17</a> As for the eye that mocks a father and scorns obedience to a mother, may the ravens of the valley pluck it out and young vultures devour it.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to show piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God.nephews.<a href="/judges/12-14.htm">Judges 12:14</a> And he had forty sons and thirty nephews, that rode on threescore and ten ass colts: and he judged Israel eight years.<a href="/job/18-19.htm">Job 18:19</a> He shall neither have son nor nephew among his people, nor any remaining in his dwellings.<a href="/isaiah/14-22.htm">Isaiah 14:22</a> For I will rise up against them, saith the LORD of hosts, and cut off from Babylon the name, and remnant, and son, and nephew, saith the LORD.learn.<a href="/1_samuel/22-3.htm">1 Samuel 22:3,4</a> And David went thence to Mizpeh of Moab: and he said unto the king of Moab, Let my father and my mother, I pray thee, come forth, and be with you, till I know what God will do for me… <a href="/proverbs/31-28.htm">Proverbs 31:28</a> Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.<a href="/luke/2-51.htm">Luke 2:51</a> And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.piety.<a href="/matthew/15-4.htm">Matthew 15:4-6</a> For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death… <a href="/mark/7-11.htm">Mark 7:11-13</a> But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free… to requite.<a href="/genesis/45-10.htm">Genesis 45:10,11</a> And thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt be near unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children's children, and thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou hast: … <a href="/genesis/47-12.htm">Genesis 47:12,28</a> And Joseph nourished his father, and his brethren, and all his father's household, with bread, according to their families… <a href="/ruth/2-2.htm">Ruth 2:2,18</a> And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter… good.<a href="/1_timothy/2-3.htm">1 Timothy 2:3</a> For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_timothy/2-3.htm">Acceptable</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-15.htm">Care</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-12.htm">Children</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-14.htm">Children's</a> <a href="/galatians/3-29.htm">Descendants</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-13.htm">Duty</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-3.htm">Eyes</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-5.htm">Family</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-9.htm">Fathers</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-10.htm">First</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-6.htm">Good</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-6.htm">Grandchildren</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-17.htm">Home</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-22.htm">Homes</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-11.htm">Learn</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-2.htm">Mothers</a> <a href="/ezra/8-19.htm">Nephews</a> <a href="/colossians/3-20.htm">Parents</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-8.htm">Piety</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-15.htm">Practice</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-10.htm">Prove</a> <a href="/colossians/2-16.htm">Religious</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/1-6.htm">Repay</a> <a href="/joel/3-4.htm">Repaying</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/1-7.htm">Requite</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-6.htm">Right</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-16.htm">Shew</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-16.htm">Show</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-3.htm">Sight</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/1-3.htm">Towards</a> <a href="/acts/9-39.htm">Widow</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/hebrews/11-4.htm">Acceptable</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-8.htm">Care</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-10.htm">Children</a> <a href="/genesis/31-16.htm">Children's</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-16.htm">Descendants</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-4.htm">Duty</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-13.htm">Eyes</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-5.htm">Family</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-3.htm">Fathers</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-12.htm">First</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-10.htm">Good</a> <a href="/genesis/31-28.htm">Grandchildren</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-14.htm">Home</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-14.htm">Homes</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-13.htm">Learn</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-2.htm">Mothers</a> <a href="/judges/12-14.htm">Nephews</a> <a href="/2_timothy/3-2.htm">Parents</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-5.htm">Piety</a> <a href="/hebrews/5-14.htm">Practice</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-13.htm">Prove</a> <a href="/hebrews/10-11.htm">Religious</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-14.htm">Repay</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/7-10.htm">Repaying</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-14.htm">Requite</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-13.htm">Right</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-15.htm">Shew</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-2.htm">Show</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-20.htm">Sight</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-2.htm">Towards</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-5.htm">Widow</a><div class="vheading2">1 Timothy 5</div>1. <a href="/1_timothy/5-1.htm">Rules to be observed in reproving.</a> 3. <a href="/1_timothy/5-3.htm">Of widows.</a> 17. <a href="/1_timothy/5-17.htm">Of elders.</a> 23. <a href="/1_timothy/5-23.htm">A precept for Timothy's health.</a> 24. <a href="/1_timothy/5-24.htm">Some men's sins go before unto judgment, and some men's follow after.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_timothy/5.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_timothy/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_timothy/5.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>But if a widow has children or grandchildren In the early church, widows were often among the most vulnerable members of society, lacking the means to support themselves. The mention of "children or grandchildren" highlights the biblical principle of family responsibility. In ancient Jewish culture, family was the primary social unit, and caring for one's relatives was a fundamental duty. This reflects the commandment to "honor your father and your mother" (<a href="/exodus/20-12.htm">Exodus 20:12</a>), emphasizing the importance of familial obligations.they must first learn to show godliness to their own family The phrase underscores the idea that true godliness begins at home. The family is seen as the first ministry for believers, where they practice their faith through acts of love and service. This aligns with the broader biblical teaching that faith without works is dead (<a href="/james/2-26.htm">James 2:26</a>). The early church placed a strong emphasis on practical expressions of faith, and caring for one's family was a tangible demonstration of godliness.and repay their parents This concept of repayment is rooted in the biblical principle of reciprocity. Parents invest time, resources, and love into raising their children, and as they age, it becomes the children's responsibility to care for them in return. This reflects the cultural norms of the time, where multi-generational households were common, and the elderly were respected and cared for by their descendants. The idea of repayment also ties into the broader biblical theme of sowing and reaping (<a href="/galatians/6-7.htm">Galatians 6:7</a>).for this is pleasing in the sight of God The phrase emphasizes that caring for one's family is not just a social obligation but a spiritual one. It aligns with the biblical teaching that God values acts of love and service (<a href="/micah/6-8.htm">Micah 6:8</a>). Pleasing God is a central theme throughout Scripture, and this passage highlights that fulfilling family responsibilities is a way to honor Him. The idea that God is pleased with such actions is a reminder of the relational nature of faith, where believers seek to align their lives with God's will.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/w/widows.htm">Widows</a> In the early church, widows were often left without support and were a primary concern for the Christian community. The church was instructed to care for them, but this verse emphasizes the responsibility of their own family first. 2. <a href="/topical/c/children_and_grandchildren.htm">Children and Grandchildren</a> These family members are called to demonstrate godliness by caring for their widowed mothers or grandmothers, highlighting the importance of family responsibility. 3. <a href="/topical/t/timothy.htm">Timothy</a> The recipient of this letter, a young pastor in Ephesus, who is being instructed by Paul on how to lead the church and address various issues, including the care of widows. 4. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle who authored this letter, providing guidance and instruction to Timothy on church leadership and Christian living. 5. <a href="/topical/e/ephesus.htm">Ephesus</a> The city where Timothy was pastoring, known for its diverse population and the challenges of maintaining a Christian community amidst various cultural influences.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/f/family_responsibility.htm">Family Responsibility</a> The primary responsibility for caring for widows lies with their own family. This reflects the biblical principle of honoring and supporting one's parents and grandparents. <a href="/topical/g/godliness_in_action.htm">Godliness in Action</a> True godliness is demonstrated through practical acts of love and support within the family. This is a tangible expression of faith and obedience to God's commands. <a href="/topical/p/pleasing_god.htm">Pleasing God</a> Caring for one's family is not just a social duty but a spiritual act that pleases God. It reflects His heart for family and community. <a href="/topical/r/repayment_and_gratitude.htm">Repayment and Gratitude</a> Supporting parents and grandparents is a form of repayment for the care and upbringing they provided. It is an expression of gratitude and acknowledgment of their sacrifices. <a href="/topical/c/church_and_family_dynamics.htm">Church and Family Dynamics</a> While the church has a role in supporting widows, the family is the first line of support. This balance ensures that the church can focus its resources on those truly in need.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_timothy_5.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Timothy 5</a> <a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_nursing_homes.htm">What does the Bible say about Christian nursing homes?</a> <a href="/q/what_are_the_main_themes_in_1_timothy.htm">What are the main themes in 1 Timothy?</a> <a href="/q/does_mark_7_9-13_contradict_honoring_parents.htm">Does Jesus’ challenge to “Corban” in Mark 7:9–13 contradict the biblical command to honor parents? </a> <a href="/q/what_is_the_origin_of_mother's_day.htm">What is the origin of Mother's Day?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_timothy/5.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(4) But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents (or, nephews).--The Greek word here should be rendered grandchildren; the original meaning of "nephew" (nepotes) has disappeared. Here a warning against allowing the Church to be burdened with a burden which others ought to bear is given, in the form of a pressing reminder to the children or grandchildren of the destitute and desolate widow. It is a solemn and imperative duty for the children to afford all needful succour--a duty not to be evaded by any bearing the Christian name.For that is good and acceptable before God.--An especial blessing is promised to those who really carry out this too often forgotten duty. (See <a href="/context/ephesians/6-2.htm" title="Honor your father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;">Ephesians 6:2-3</a>; and also comp. <a href="/context/mark/7-10.htm" title="For Moses said, Honor your father and your mother; and, Whoever curses father or mother, let him die the death:">Mark 7:10-11</a>.)<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_timothy/5.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 4. - Hath for have, A.V.; grandchildren for nephews, A.V.; towards their own family for at home, A.V.; this for that, A.V.; acceptable in the sight of for good and acceptable before, A.V. and T.R. Grandchildren (ἔκγονα; only here in the New Testament, but common in the LXX. and in classical Greek); descendants, children or grandchildren (as on the other hand, πρόγονοι in this verse includes grandparents as well as parents). In Latin nepotes, "descendants;" nos neveux (in French), "our descendants;" and so the English word "nephews" (derived from nepos, through the French neveu) properly means, and is commonly so used in all old English writers, as e.g., in Holinshed (Richardson's Dictionary), "their nephews, or sons' sons, which reigned in the third place." Locke's phrase, "a nephew by a brother," seems to show the transition to the modern use of "nephew." But as the old meaning of "nephews" is now obsolete, it is better to substitute "grandchildren," as in the R.V. Let them learn. Clearly "the children or grandchildren" is the subject. To show piety towards (εὐσεβεῖν). In the only other passage in the New Testament where this word occurs, <a href="/acts/17-23.htm">Acts 17:23</a>, it has also an accusative of the person - "whom ye worship." In classical Greek also εὐσεβεῖν τινα is used as well as εἰς, or περὶ, or πρὸς τινα.. Their own family, of which the widowed mother or grandmother formed a part. The force of τὸν ἴδον οῖκον, "their own family," lies in the implied contrast with the Church. As long as a widow has members of her own house who are able to support her, the Church ought net to be burdened (see ver. 16). To requite (ἀμοιβὰς ἀποδίδοναι); literally, to give back the return or exchange due. Ἀμοιβή is only found here in the New Testament, but is not uncommon in the LXX., and is much used in the best classical authors. The πρόγονοι had nourished and cared for them in their childhood; they must requite that care by honoring and supporting them in their old age. This is acceptable (ἀπόδεκτον); only here in the New Testament or LXX., and rarely if ever in classical Greek. The same idea is expressed in <a href="/1_timothy/1-15.htm">1 Timothy 1:15</a>, by πάσης ἀποδοχῆς ἄξιος, and in <a href="/1_peter/2-19.htm">1 Peter 2:19, 20</a>, by χάρις Τοῦτο χάρις παρὰ Θεῷ, "This is acceptable with God." <a href="/commentaries/1_timothy/5-4.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>But δέ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. if εἰ (ei) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1487.htm">Strong's 1487: </a> If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc. a τις (tis) Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5100.htm">Strong's 5100: </a> Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object. widow χήρα (chēra) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5503.htm">Strong's 5503: </a> Feminine of a presumed derivative apparently from the base of chasma through the idea of deficiency; a widow, literally or figuratively. has ἔχει (echei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2192.htm">Strong's 2192: </a> To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold. children τέκνα (tekna) Noun - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_5043.htm">Strong's 5043: </a> A child, descendent, inhabitant. From the base of timoria; a child. or ἢ (ē) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2228.htm">Strong's 2228: </a> Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than. grandchildren, ἔκγονα (ekgona) Adjective - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1549.htm">Strong's 1549: </a> Descended, subst: a descendant. Neuter of a derivative of a compound of ek and ginomai; a descendant, i.e. grandchild. they must first learn μανθανέτωσαν (manthanetōsan) Verb - Present Imperative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3129.htm">Strong's 3129: </a> Prolongation from a primary verb, another form of which, matheo, is used as an alternate in certain tenses; to learn. to show godliness εὐσεβεῖν (eusebein) Verb - Present Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_2151.htm">Strong's 2151: </a> To be dutiful, pious, show piety towards, worship. From eusebes; to be pious, i.e. to worship, or to respect. to [their] τὸν (ton) Article - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. own ἴδιον (idion) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2398.htm">Strong's 2398: </a> Pertaining to self, i.e. One's own; by implication, private or separate. family οἶκον (oikon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3624.htm">Strong's 3624: </a> A dwelling; by implication, a family. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. repay ἀποδιδόναι (apodidonai) Verb - Present Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_591.htm">Strong's 591: </a> From apo and didomi; to give away, i.e. Up, over, back, etc. [their] τοῖς (tois) Article - Dative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. parents, προγόνοις (progonois) Noun - Dative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4269.htm">Strong's 4269: </a> An ancestor. From proginomai; an ancestor, parent. for γάρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. this τοῦτο (touto) Demonstrative Pronoun - Nominative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> This; he, she, it. is ἐστιν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. pleasing ἀπόδεκτον (apodekton) Adjective - Nominative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_587.htm">Strong's 587: </a> Worthy to be received (welcomed), acceptable, welcome, pleasant. From apodechomai; accepted, i.e. Agreeable. in the sight of ἐνώπιον (enōpion) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1799.htm">Strong's 1799: </a> Neuter of a compound of en and a derivative of optanomai; in the face of. God. Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_timothy/5-4.htm">1 Timothy 5:4 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_timothy/5-4.htm">1 Timothy 5:4 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_timothy/5-4.htm">1 Timothy 5:4 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_timothy/5-4.htm">1 Timothy 5:4 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_timothy/5-4.htm">1 Timothy 5:4 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_timothy/5-4.htm">1 Timothy 5:4 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_timothy/5-4.htm">1 Timothy 5:4 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_timothy/5-4.htm">1 Timothy 5:4 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_timothy/5-4.htm">1 Timothy 5:4 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_timothy/5-4.htm">1 Timothy 5:4 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-4.htm">NT Letters: 1 Timothy 5:4 But if any widow has children (1 Tim. 1Ti iTi 1tim i Tm) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_timothy/5-3.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Timothy 5:3"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Timothy 5:3" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_timothy/5-5.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Timothy 5:5"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Timothy 5:5" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>