1 Timothy 5:10 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

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.

For good works - Greek, 'IN honourable works:' the sphere in which the good report of her had place (Titus 2:7). This answers to 1 Timothy 3:7, as to the bishop or presbyter.

If - if, in addition to being "well reported of," etc.

She have brought up children - piously, either her own (1 Timothy 3:4; 1 Timothy 3:12) or those of others, one of the "good works:" a qualification adapting her for ministry to orphan children and to mothers of families.

Lodged strangers (1 Timothy 3:2, end; Titus 1:8) - in the case of presbyters.

Washes the saints' feet - after Jesus' example (John 13:14): a specimen of humbly 'by love serving one another' (Luke 7:38; Galatians 5:13).

Relieved the afflicted - by pecuniary or other relief.

Followed every good (1 Thessalonians 5:15: cf. instances in Matthew 25:35-36.)

1 Timothy 5:10

10 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.