1 Timothy 5:10

KJV

Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.

KJV (with Strong's)

Well reported of {G3140} for {G1722} good {G2570} works {G2041}; if {G1487} she have brought up {G5044} children, if {G1487} she have lodged strangers {G3580}, if {G1487} she have washed {G3538} the saints {G40}' feet {G4228}, if {G1487} she have relieved {G1884} the afflicted {G2346}, if {G1487} she have diligently followed {G1872} every {G3956} good {G18} work {G2041}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and is known for her good deeds — as one who has reared her children well, showed hospitality, washed the feet of God’s people, helped those in trouble, and engaged in all kinds of good work.

Berean Standard Bible

and well known for good deeds such as bringing up children, entertaining strangers, washing the feet of the saints, imparting relief to the afflicted, and devoting herself to every good work.

American Standard Version

well 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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Timothy 5:10 outlines the specific qualifications for widows to be officially enrolled and supported by the early church, emphasizing that such support was reserved for those whose lives consistently demonstrated genuine faith through tangible acts of service and devotion. These criteria, following the age requirement of the preceding verse, highlight a reputation built on good works, faithful family nurturing, generous hospitality, humble service to fellow believers, compassionate care for the afflicted, and diligent pursuit of every good deed.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is part of a larger section in [1 Timothy 5](/1_timothy/5 "1 Timothy 5 - Instructions for Church Conduct") where Paul provides detailed instructions to Timothy regarding the proper conduct and organization of the church in Ephesus. Specifically, [verses 3-16](/1_timothy/5-3-16 "1 Timothy 5:3-16 - On the Care of Widows") address the care of widows. Paul distinguishes between truly destitute widows who warrant church support and younger widows who should remarry. [Verse 9](/1_timothy/5-9 "1 Timothy 5:9 - Age Requirement for Widows") sets the age requirement (sixty years old), and [verse 10](/1_timothy/5-10 "1 Timothy 5:10 - Qualifications for Enrolled Widows") then elaborates on the character and conduct expected of those who would be officially enrolled and receive aid. The subsequent verses continue to discuss the responsibilities of family members to care for their own and the dangers of idleness among younger widows. The criteria in [1 Timothy 5:10](/1_timothy/5-10 "1 Timothy 5:10 - Qualifications for Enrolled Widows") are therefore not general exhortations but specific prerequisites for a particular role within the church's social welfare system.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the Greco-Roman world, and particularly within Jewish tradition, widows were often a vulnerable demographic, lacking the social and economic protections typically afforded by a husband or male relatives. The early church, embodying the compassionate spirit of Christ, took on the responsibility of caring for its needy members, especially those without family support. This care was not merely charity but an organized system, reflecting the church's commitment to social justice and practical love. The specific activities listed in [1 Timothy 5:10](/1_timothy/5-10 "1 Timothy 5:10 - Qualifications for Enrolled Widows")—raising children, hospitality, humble service, and aiding the afflicted—were highly esteemed virtues in both Jewish and early Christian communities, seen as concrete expressions of faith and devotion. Foot washing, for instance, was a common act of hospitality in a dusty climate, often performed by servants, and its mention here signifies a willingness to perform humble, self-sacrificial service.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme in [1 Timothy](/1_timothy/1 "1 Timothy - Instructions for Church Order") is the proper conduct and order within the church, emphasizing sound doctrine and godly living. Within this, [1 Timothy 5:10](/1_timothy/5-10 "1 Timothy 5:10 - Qualifications for Enrolled Widows") contributes to several key themes. Firstly, it highlights the importance of **good works** as an outward manifestation of genuine faith, reinforcing that Christian belief is not merely intellectual but active. Secondly, it underscores the value of **practical compassion and service** within the community, demonstrating the church's responsibility to care for its most vulnerable members. Thirdly, it emphasizes **integrity and reputation**, as the widow's life must be "well reported of," indicating that her past conduct serves as a testament to her character and worthiness of support. This aligns with Paul's broader emphasis on the importance of blameless conduct for church leaders and members alike, as seen in passages like [1 Timothy 3:2](/1_timothy/3-2 "1 Timothy 3:2 - Qualifications for Overseers").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Well reported of (Greek, _martyréō'_):** This word signifies "to be a witness" or "to testify," and in this context, it means "having testimony borne to her" or "having a good reputation." It implies that her commendable character and actions were widely known and affirmed by others, not merely self-proclaimed. It is a public acknowledgment of her consistent, godly conduct.
* **Good (Greek, _kalós'_):** While there are multiple Greek words for "good," _kalós_ specifically refers to that which is inherently beautiful, honorable, excellent, or morally upright. It suggests deeds that are intrinsically good in quality and appearance, reflecting a virtuous character, distinguishing it from _agathós_ (G18), which denotes intrinsic goodness.
* **Diligently followed (Greek, _epakolouthéō'_):** This compound word, meaning "to accompany" or "to follow after," implies a persistent, active, and consistent pursuit. It's not about occasional good deeds but a life marked by a continuous and earnest engagement in every good work, demonstrating a pattern of dedication and zeal.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Well reported of for good works":** This opening phrase establishes the foundational requirement: the widow must have a public reputation for a life characterized by honorable and virtuous deeds. This isn't about isolated acts but a consistent pattern of behavior that has earned her widespread respect and affirmation within the community. Her life itself serves as a testimony to her faith.
* **"if she have brought up children":** This clause emphasizes her faithfulness within the family sphere. It speaks to her role as a nurturing parent, suggesting a history of responsible care, spiritual guidance, and diligent upbringing of her own household. This demonstrates her capacity for selfless devotion and responsibility.
* **"if she have lodged strangers":** This highlights the vital practice of hospitality, a cornerstone of early Christian community. It refers to providing shelter, food, and welcome to travelers, missionaries, or those in need, showcasing a generous and open heart that extends beyond one's immediate family.
* **"if she have washed the saints' feet":** This points to an act of humble, practical service. Foot washing was a common, yet menial, task performed for guests, often by servants. By performing such a task for "saints" (fellow believers), she demonstrates a willingness to stoop to the lowest forms of service out of love and humility, echoing the example of Christ.
* **"if she have relieved the afflicted":** This emphasizes compassion and active aid to those suffering from distress, sickness, poverty, or oppression. It signifies a heart sensitive to human suffering and a proactive willingness to provide practical assistance and support to those in need. The Greek implies "to come to the aid of" or "to succor."
* **"if she have diligently followed every good work":** This concluding clause serves as a summary and intensifier. It means that her life has been marked by a consistent, persistent, and zealous pursuit of all kinds of good deeds. It's not just about fulfilling specific duties but about a general disposition of actively seeking and performing every opportunity to do good, demonstrating a comprehensive commitment to a life of service.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Anaphora** through the repeated use of "if she have" (Greek: _ei_ G1487) at the beginning of each qualifying clause. This repetition creates a strong rhetorical emphasis on the cumulative nature of the requirements, underscoring that it is not one isolated act but a pattern of life that qualifies a widow for church support. The structure is also a form of **Enumeration**, systematically listing specific examples of "good works" to provide a concrete and comprehensive picture of the expected character. The acts themselves serve as **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, where specific actions (like washing feet or lodging strangers) stand for broader virtues like humility, hospitality, and selfless service. The entire verse functions as a **Criterion List**, setting clear, measurable standards for a specific ecclesiastical role.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The criteria for widows in [1 Timothy 5:10](/1_timothy/5-10 "1 Timothy 5:10 - Qualifications for Enrolled Widows") underscore a profound theological truth: genuine faith is invariably demonstrated through a life of active love and service. While salvation is by grace through faith, not by works ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by Grace Through Faith")), good works are the natural and necessary outflow of a transformed heart, prepared by God for this very purpose ([Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - Created for Good Works")). This verse illustrates that a life "well reported of for good works" is not about earning merit but about evidencing the Spirit's work within. It reflects God's character of compassion and service, calling His people to imitate Him in practical ways, especially towards the vulnerable. The church, as God's household, is called to embody this active love, recognizing and supporting those whose lives have consistently reflected these divine virtues.

* [Matthew 25:34-40](/matthew/25-34-40 "Matthew 25:34-40 - The Sheep and the Goats")
* [James 2:14-17](/james/2-14-17 "James 2:14-17 - Faith Without Works is Dead")
* [Titus 2:7](/titus/2-7 "Titus 2:7 - Be an Example of Good Works")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific context of [1 Timothy 5:10](/1_timothy/5-10 "1 Timothy 5:10 - Qualifications for Enrolled Widows") pertains to the church's official care for elderly widows, the principles it embodies are timeless and universally applicable to all believers. This verse challenges us to consider the tangible evidence of our faith. Is our life "well reported of for good works"? Do our actions demonstrate genuine love, humility, and compassion? It encourages us to actively seek opportunities to serve, whether by nurturing our families, extending hospitality to strangers, humbly serving those in our community, or relieving the burdens of the afflicted. Our good works are not a means to earn God's favor, but rather the natural, Spirit-empowered overflow of a heart transformed by His grace. They are the visible fruit of our faith, testifying to the reality of Christ within us and bringing glory to God. This passage calls us to a diligent, consistent pursuit of every good work, making our lives a living testament to the gospel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways is my life "well reported of for good works" within my community and church?**
* **How can I more intentionally practice hospitality and humble service, even in small ways, in my daily life?**
* **What opportunities do I have to "relieve the afflicted" around me, and how can I act on them?**
* **Am I diligently pursuing *every* good work, or am I selective in my service?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of "washing the saints' feet" in this context?**

Answer: "Washing the saints' feet" refers to a literal act of humble service and hospitality. In ancient times, people wore sandals, and their feet would become dusty and dirty from travel. Washing a guest's feet was a common act of hospitality, usually performed by a servant. For a widow to have performed this act for "saints" (fellow believers) indicates a spirit of profound humility, selflessness, and a willingness to perform even the lowliest tasks out of love and devotion. It echoes the example of Jesus, who washed His disciples' feet as a demonstration of servant leadership ([John 13:1-17](/john/13-1-17 "John 13:1-17 - Jesus Washes His Disciples' Feet")). Thus, it signifies a life characterized by practical, unassuming service to the body of Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [1 Timothy 5:10](/1_timothy/5-10 "1 Timothy 5:10 - Qualifications for Enrolled Widows") outlines qualifications for human service, its spirit finds ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the one supremely "well reported of for good works," His entire life a testament to perfect obedience and selfless service, as attested by God the Father Himself ([Matthew 3:17](/matthew/3-17 "Matthew 3:17 - God's Affirmation of Jesus")). Jesus perfectly "brought up children" in a spiritual sense, nurturing His disciples and teaching them the ways of God ([John 17:6-19](/john/17-6-19 "John 17:6-19 - Jesus' Prayer for His Disciples")). He "lodged strangers" by welcoming all who came to Him, even outcasts and sinners, offering them spiritual refuge and belonging in the Kingdom of God ([Luke 15:1-2](/luke/15-1-2 "Luke 15:1-2 - Jesus Welcomes Sinners")). Most profoundly, Jesus "washed the saints' feet" not merely as a symbolic gesture but by humbling Himself to the point of death on a cross, becoming a servant to all to cleanse us from sin ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")). He "relieved the afflicted" by healing the sick, casting out demons, feeding the hungry, and ultimately bearing the afflictions of humanity on the cross to offer eternal relief and salvation ([Isaiah 53:4-5](/isaiah/53-4-5 "Isaiah 53:4-5 - The Suffering Servant")). Indeed, Jesus "diligently followed every good work," fulfilling all righteousness and perfectly accomplishing the Father's will ([John 4:34](/john/4-34 "John 4:34 - Jesus' Food is to Do God's Will")). Thus, the qualities Paul commends in widows are but faint reflections of the perfect life of service embodied by our Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom alone we are empowered to live lives of good works for God's glory ([Colossians 1:10](/colossians/1-10 "Colossians 1:10 - Bearing Fruit in Every Good Work")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Timothy 6:18

That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;

Titus 3:8

[This is] a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

Acts 9:36

¶ Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

Titus 2:7

In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine [shewing] uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

Titus 3:1

¶ Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

2 Timothy 3:17

That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

Luke 7:44

And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped [them] with the hairs of her head.