1-Timothy - 5:7



7 Also command these things, that they may be without reproach.

Verse In-Depth

Explanation and meaning of 1-Timothy 5:7.

Differing Translations

Compare verses for better understanding.
And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless.
These things also command, that they may be without reproach.
And this give in charge, that they may be blameless.
And these things enjoin, that they may be irreproachable.
Press these facts upon them, so that they may live lives free from reproach.
Give orders to this effect, so that no evil may be said of anyone.
And give instruction in this, so that they may be beyond reproach.
Those are the points you should teach, so that there may be no call for your censure.

*Minor differences ignored. Grouped by changes, with first version listed as example.


Historical Commentaries

Scholarly Analysis and Interpretation.

And command these things He means, that not only does he prescribe to Timothy the course which he ought to follow, but the women also must be carefully taught not to be stained with such vices. It is the duty of the pastor not only to oppose the wicked practices or ambition of those who act an unreasonable part, but to guard against every danger, as far as lies in his power, by instruction and constant warnings. That they may be blameless. It was the natural result of prudence and steadfastness not to admit widows, unless they were worthy; but yet it was proper to assign a reason why they were not admitted; and it was even necessary to forewarn the Church that unworthy persons should not be brought forward, or should not offer themselves. Again, Paul commends this part of instruction on the ground of utility; as if he had said, that it must by no means be despised, because it is common, since it aims at the chief part of a good and perfect life. Now there is nothing that ought to be more diligently learned in God's school than the study of a holy and upright life. In a word, moral instruction is compared with ingenious speculations, which are of no visible advantage, agreeably to that saying, "All Scripture is profitable, that the man of God may become perfect," etc. (2-Timothy 3:16.)

And these things give in charge - Announce, or declare these things, to wit, particularly respecting the duty of children to their widowed mothers, and the proper duty of those who are widows.

That they may be blameless - Charge the whole Church to attend to these things, that they may be blameless. The words are not spoken of the widows only, but of the Church or its officers; it cannot be restricted to the widows, for the adjective ανεπιληπτοι is both of the masculine and feminine gender.

And these things give in charge,.... Concerning rebuking persons of a different age and sex, and concerning the maintenance of widows; and particularly that children provide for their parents when helpless; and that widows trust in God, and give themselves to prayer and supplication, and not live in sin:
that they may be blameless; before men, and in the view of the world, and not be chargeable with any notorious crime; though none are without blame in themselves, and before God, but as considered in Christ Jesus.

these things--just now spoken (1-Timothy 5:5-6).
that they may be blameless--namely, the widows supported by the Church.

That they - That is, the widows.

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