5:6 5:6

1 Timothy 5:7

5:8 5:8

Bible Versions

And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless.
And {G2532} these things {G5023} give in charge {G3853}, that {G2443} they may be {G5600} blameless {G423}.
And instruct them about this, so that they will not be open to blame.
Give these instructions to the believers, so that they will be above reproach.
These things also command, that they may be without reproach.

1 Timothy 5:7 is a concise yet powerful directive from the Apostle Paul to his young protégé, Timothy, serving as a pastor in Ephesus. This verse acts as a summary and a command regarding the preceding instructions given in the chapter, emphasizing the desired outcome of Christian conduct within the community.

Context

This verse directly follows Paul's detailed instructions concerning the care and conduct of various groups within the church, particularly widows (1 Timothy 5:3-6), but also touching upon younger men and women, and elders (1 Timothy 5:1-2, 17-20). Paul is laying out principles for proper church order and the moral expectations for believers. Timothy, as the leader, is charged with ensuring these standards are taught and upheld, promoting a healthy and reputable Christian community.

Key Themes

  • Pastoral Responsibility: Timothy is commanded to "give in charge" these things, highlighting his authority and duty to instruct and enforce righteous conduct within the church. It underscores the vital role of church leadership in guiding the flock.
  • Blameless Living: The ultimate goal of these instructions is that believers "may be blameless." This doesn't imply perfection but a life lived consistently with Christian principles, free from legitimate accusation or moral failing that would dishonor Christ or the church. It speaks to the importance of a good testimony both within and outside the Christian community.
  • Church Order and Purity: The emphasis on specific conduct for different groups contributes to the overall order, integrity, and purity of the local church.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "give in charge" comes from the Greek word paraggello (παραγγέλλω), which means to command, instruct, or order with authority. It's a strong term, indicating that these are not mere suggestions but authoritative directives that Timothy must enforce. The word "blameless" is from the Greek anepilemptos (ἀνεπίλημπτος), meaning irreproachable, beyond reproach, or without anything to be taken hold of against one. This ideal of living blamelessly is a recurring theme in Paul's epistles for both leaders and all believers, emphasizing the importance of Christian witness.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Timothy 5:7 serves as a reminder of the call to live lives that honor God and reflect positively on the Christian faith. It encourages:

  • Personal Accountability: Each Christian is called to strive for a life above reproach, ensuring their conduct aligns with their confession of faith. This impacts personal testimony and the church's reputation.
  • Importance of Sound Teaching: Church leaders have a responsibility to clearly teach and uphold biblical standards of conduct, just as Paul instructed Timothy.
  • Community Witness: When believers live blamelessly, it strengthens the church's witness to the world, making the gospel more credible and appealing. This commitment to integrity helps the church fulfill its mission, as seen in Matthew 5:16, where believers are to let their light shine.
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.

  • 1 Timothy 4:11

    These things command and teach.

  • Titus 2:15

    ¶ These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.

  • 2 Timothy 4:1

    ¶ I charge [thee] therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;

  • Titus 1:13

    This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;

  • 1 Timothy 6:17

    Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;

  • 1 Timothy 1:3

    As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,
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