1 Timothy 5:4

The New Testament in Koya Language © The Word for the World International and Koya Translation Samithi, Malkangiri, Odisha 2020

ଯଦି ବେନ୍‌ଆଇ ରାଣ୍ଡିନ୍ ମାର୍‍ ପୌତ୍ରାଦି ମିନ୍ଦେଣ୍ଡେ, ଆୱୁ ମିନେଙ୍କ୍ ନିଜର୍ ପରିବାର୍‍ଦାଗ୍ ୟାୟବାବାଲ୍, ବାବାମହ ବା ୟାୟମାହୀଙ୍କ୍ ପ୍ରତି ଦର୍ମତଃ ନିଜର୍ କର୍ତ୍ତବ୍ୟ ପାଲନ୍ ମାଡ଼ି ଇଶ୍ୱର୍‌ତେ ପସନ୍ଦ୍‍ ଆୟ୍‍ମୁଟ୍‍ ।

What Does This Mean?

This verse says that if a widow has children or nephews, they should learn to show respect and care for their family members first, especially by taking care of their parents. This is good and pleases God.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have an aunt who doesn’t have anyone to look after her. The Bible says that if your mom or dad are in this position, it’s really important for you to take care of them first before helping others outside the family. It's like being a good helper at home.

Historical Background

The letter was written by Paul to Timothy around 63 AD. It aimed to provide guidance on various matters including how to treat widows, in a context where women were often vulnerable and dependent on their families or community support.

Living It Out Today

In modern life, this can apply when a family member is responsible for caring for an elderly parent. Instead of always volunteering elsewhere, they might prioritize being there for the parent, which is a valuable act of faithfulness.

Topics

• family duties
• respect for parents
• responsibility
• faithfulness
• caring for the elderly
• widows

Related Verses

• Matthew 15:4
• Ephesians 6:2-3
• Exodus 20:12
• Deuteronomy 5:16
• Proverbs 23:22

Recommended Reading

Commentary 1 Timothy Commentaries → Get This Bible The New Testament in Koya Language © The Word for the World International and Koya Translation Samithi, Malkangiri, Odisha Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'piety' mean in this verse?

'Piety' here means showing respect, devotion, and care. It's about being faithful and respectful towards one’s family members.

Does this apply only to children of widows?

While the text specifically mentions children or nephews of widows, the principle can be applied broadly to any situation where family support is needed.

How does repaying parents relate to pleasing God?

In biblical teaching, honoring and supporting one's parents is a way to show respect for God’s commandments. By caring for their needs, you honor both your parents and God.

What if the family member can't take care of an elderly parent due to other commitments?

In such cases, it's important to seek a balance where possible, ensuring that proper care is arranged while also addressing other responsibilities. Community or church support might be helpful.