1 Timothy 5:8 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

Bible Comments

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 if any provide not for his own - His own people or relatives.

Those of his own house - That is, his own family, or a poor widow or relative that lives under his roof.

Hath denied the faith - The Christian religion, which strongly inculcates love and benevolence to all mankind.

Is worse than an infidel - For what are called the dictates of nature lead men to feel for and provide for their own families. Heathen writers are full of maxims of this kind; Tacitus says: Liberos cuique ac propinquos Natura carissimos esse voluit. "Nature dictates that to every one his own children and relatives should be most dear." And Cicero, in Epist. ad Caption: Suos quisque debet tueri. "Every man should take care of his own family."

1 Timothy 5:8

8 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house,b he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.