1 Timothy 5:9, 10 No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the Lord’s people, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds.
It appears that the early churches kept a list of widows. These widows were not only supported financially (there being no state support) but served the church by helping in the practical work. Here Paul gives three qualifications, the last one being dealt with under five heads. The first qualification was an age one. Widows under sixty were expected to fend for themselves. Faithfulness to her dead husband is also required. The third qualification is that such a woman should be well known for her good deeds - so not just a do gooder but one well known for it. Five examples are given of the sorts of things in mind. These are bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the Lord’s people (which would mean showing hospitality in particularly needy situations where needed), helping those in trouble and a final catch all devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds. These are the sorts of activities ministers should be encouraging in the women of the congregation. Not all will be bringing up children, though many will be. Hospitality, sometimes hospitality to very needy people, will be typical. People who help those in trouble and do good deeds are the sort of people that are wanted in a church that seeks to help others.
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