5:7 5:7

1 Timothy 5:8

5:9 5:9

Bible Versions

But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
But {G1161} if any {G1536} provide {G4306} not {G3756} for his own {G2398}, and {G2532} specially {G3122} for those of his own house {G3609}, he hath denied {G720} the faith {G4102}, and {G2532} is {G2076} worse than {G5501} an infidel {G571}.
Moreover, anyone who does not provide for his own people, especially for his family, has disowned the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
If anyone does not provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
But if any provideth not for his own, and specially his own household, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever.

In 1 Timothy 5:8, the Apostle Paul delivers a powerful and direct command regarding the responsibility of believers to care for their immediate family. This verse underscores the foundational importance of providing for one's household, linking this duty directly to the authenticity of one's Christian faith. Neglecting this fundamental obligation, Paul asserts, is tantamount to denying the faith and is considered even worse than the conduct of an unbeliever.

Context

This verse is situated within Paul's instructions to Timothy concerning the proper conduct and order within the early church in Ephesus. Chapter 5 specifically addresses how the church should care for different groups, particularly widows (1 Timothy 5:3-16). Before discussing the church's role, Paul emphasizes that the primary responsibility for family provision rests with the individual family members themselves. This establishes a clear hierarchy of care, where personal and familial duties precede communal church support, ensuring that church resources are used for those truly without other means.

Key Themes

  • Personal Responsibility and Provision: The verse highlights the non-negotiable duty of believers to provide for their "own," especially their immediate "house." This encompasses not only financial and material needs but also emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. It's a call to active stewardship within one's family unit, a core aspect of Christian living.
  • Integrity of Faith: Paul's stark statement, "he hath denied the faith," indicates that neglecting family provision is not merely a social failing but a spiritual one. It suggests that genuine faith in Christ should naturally manifest in responsible and loving care for those closest to us. Such neglect undermines the credibility of one's profession of faith and sets a poor example.
  • Distinction from Non-Believers: The phrase "worse than an infidel" (or unbeliever) is a severe indictment. It implies that even those outside the Christian faith often recognize and fulfill the natural obligation to care for their families. For a Christian to fall short of this common human decency, let alone a divine command, brings reproach upon the Gospel itself. It sets a lower standard than even the world might expect.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "provide" is pronoew (προνοέω), which means "to take thought for beforehand," "to make provision for," or "to care for." It implies foresight and active effort in meeting needs. The term "infidel" comes from the Greek apistos (ἄπιστος), meaning "unbelieving" or "faithless." The contrast is sharp: a Christian, by definition, is one who has faith (pistis), yet neglecting family demonstrates a lack of practical faith and responsibility that even an apistos might uphold.

Practical Application

This verse remains profoundly relevant today. It calls believers to prioritize the needs of their families, whether providing financial support, time, emotional presence, or spiritual guidance. It challenges the notion that one can be deeply spiritual while neglecting fundamental earthly responsibilities. For parents, it underscores the duty to raise and nurture their children (Ephesians 6:4); for adult children, it may include caring for aging parents. The principle extends to all within one's "own house," emphasizing the importance of a strong, healthy family unit as a testament to the power of the Gospel. It serves as a reminder that true faith is active and practical, not just theoretical (James 2:17).

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.

  • Galatians 6:10

    As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:14

    Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.

  • Luke 11:11

    If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if [he ask] a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent?

  • Luke 11:13

    If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall [your] heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?

  • Isaiah 58:7

    [Is it] not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?

  • Titus 1:16

    They profess that they know God; but in works they deny [him], being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

  • Matthew 7:11

    If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
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