1 Timothy 5:13-25 ▼

13 Now at the same time, they also learn to be idle as they go from house to house; and not only idle, but also gossips and busybodies [meddlers in things that do not concern them], talking about things they should not mention.

14 So I want younger widows to get married, have children, manage their households, and not give opponents of the faith any occasion for slander.

15 Some [widows] have already turned away [from the faith] to follow Satan.

16 If any believing woman has [dependent] widows [in her household], she must assist them [according to her ability]; and the church must not be burdened [with them], so that it may assist those who are truly widows [those who are all alone and are dependent].

17 The elders who perform their leadership duties well are to be considered worthy of double honor (financial support), especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching [the word of God concerning eternal salvation through Christ].

18 For the Scripture says, “YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE IT IS TREADING OUT THE GRAIN [to keep it from eating],” and, “The worker is worthy of his wages [he deserves fair compensation].”

19 Do not accept an accusation against an elder unless it is based on [the testimony of at least] two or three witnesses.

20 As for those [elders] who continue in sin, reprimand them in the presence of all [the congregation], so that the rest will be warned.

21 I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels that you guard and keep these rules without bias, doing nothing out of favoritism.

22 Do not hurry to lay hands on anyone [ordaining and approving someone for ministry or an office in the church, or in reinstating expelled offenders], and thereby share in the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin.

23 No longer continue drinking [only] water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.

24 The sins of some people are conspicuous, leading the way for them into judgment [so that they are clearly not qualified for ministry]; but the sins of others appear later [for they are hidden and follow behind them].

25 Likewise, good deeds are quite evident, and those which are otherwise cannot be hidden [indefinitely].