Guidelines for Reproof

1Rebuke not an elder, but exhort him as a father; the younger men as brethren: 2the elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, in all purity.

Honoring Widows

(Ruth 1:1-5)

3Honour widows that are widows indeed. 4But 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. 5Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, hath her hope set on God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day. 6But she that giveth herself to pleasure is dead while she liveth. 7These things also command, that they may be without reproach. 8But if any provideth not for his own, and specially his own household, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever.

9Let none be enrolled as a widow under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man, 10well reported of for good works; if she hath brought up children, if she hath used hospitality to strangers, if she hath washed the saints' feet, if she hath relieved the afflicted, if she hath diligently followed every good work. 11But younger widows refuse: for when they have waxed wanton against Christ, they desire to marry; 12having condemnation, because they have rejected their first faith. 13And withal they learn also to be idle, going about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. 14I desire therefore that the younger widows marry, bear children, rule the household, give none occasion to the adversary for reviling: 15for already some are turned aside after Satan. 16If any woman that believeth hath widows, let her relieve them, and let not the church be burdened; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed.

Honoring Elders

17Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially those who labour in the word and in teaching. 18For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox when he treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his hire. 19Against an elder receive not an accusation, except at the mouth of two or three witnesses. 20Them that sin reprove in the sight of all, that the rest also may be in fear.

A Charge to Timothy

21I charge thee in the sight of God, and Christ Jesus, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing by partiality. 22Lay hands hastily on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure.

23Be no longer a drinker of water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.

24Some men's sins are evident, going before unto judgment; and some men also they follow after. 25In like manner also there are good works that are evident; and such as are otherwise cannot be hid.