Bible Commentaries
1 Timothy 5

Verses 1-25

Timothy's demeanor toward men and women was now described, and demands careful study and attention. As for men, seniors are to be treated with respect, while the younger men are to be treated as brethren.

Of women, he is to treat the elder as mothers, and the younger as sisters. The large section devoted to widows indicated peculiar local conditions and dangers. Hence the careful instructions.

At verse 1Ti 5:17 we find the term "elders" used in a more specific sense, referring undoubtedly to those who held office in the Church. These were to be held in honor and provided for. Order must be maintained, and discipline enforced, yet in such a way as befits the elders' honorable position. The true Church order must ever be "first pure, then peaceable." The responsibility resting on Timothy was so great that the apostle charged him to act in the sight of God, of Jesus Christ, and the elect angels. Apparently turning aside for a moment, and thinking of Timothy's "often infirmities," he gave him personal and practical advice.