1 Timothy 5:7
And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 6
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
παράγγελλε
give in charge
G3853
παράγγελλε
give in charge
Strong's:
G3853
Word #:
3 of 6
to transmit a message, i.e., (by implication) to enjoin
Cross References
1 Timothy 4:11These things command and teach.Titus 2:15These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.Titus 1:13This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;2 Timothy 4:1I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
Historical Context
The early church faced scrutiny from pagan society looking for reasons to criticize. If Christians neglected their own families while claiming superior virtue, or if the church distributed funds carelessly, enemies would accuse believers of hypocrisy. Paul insists on blameless conduct—both in private family care and public church benevolence—to protect the gospel's credibility.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does Paul use military language ('command') for teaching about family and financial responsibility?
- How does the church's handling of benevolence affect its public witness?
- What does it mean for church members to be 'blameless' in their family responsibilities?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless (καὶ ταῦτα παράγγελλε, ἵνα ἀνεπίλημπτοι ὦσιν, kai tauta parangelle, hina anepilēmptoi ōsin)—'command these things, so that they may be above reproach.' Parangellō is military language: order, charge, command. Anepilēmptos means blameless, irreproachable—the same term used for elders (3:2).
Paul instructs Timothy to publicly teach these principles about widow care and family responsibility. The goal is that both widows and their families will be 'above reproach'—their conduct won't bring criticism on the church. Families caring for their own demonstrate godliness; widows living devotedly demonstrate faith; the church's discernment demonstrates wisdom.
Public teaching on practical matters like financial stewardship and family responsibility is essential pastoral ministry. These aren't private suggestions but apostolic commands to be proclaimed authoritatively. The church's reputation depends on members living blamelessly.