1Do not rebuke (speak harshly to) an elder, but encourage him as if he were your father; and encourage the younger men, as brothers; 2The elder women, as mothers; the younger women, as sisters, with all purity.

3Honor and provide for widows that are widows indeed. 4But if a widow has children or nephews, those should learn to first demonstrate their beliefs at home by providing for the needs of their widows and parents at home; for that is good and pleasing to God. 5The widow who is alone, and truly in need, puts her trust in God, and continues to pray night and day. 6But the widow that lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives. 7And give the church these instructions, so that they are not criticized. 8But anyone who does not provide for their own relatives, and especially for those of their own household, has denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel (unbeliever). 9Do not add a widow to the list of those needing support that is younger than sixty years; and only add those that have been the wife of only one man, 10Well known and respected for her good deeds, such as: bringing up needy or orphaned children, showing hospitality to strangers, humbly serving God’s people, or relieving the afflicted - diligently seeking to do good. 11But do not put the younger widows on such a list; for when their sensual desires override their dedication to Christ, they will remarry, 12And incur judgement for having abandoned their former faith. 13And, besides, being on the list, they may learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; not only idle, but busybodies, telling things which they ought not. 14And so, I counsel that the younger women marry, bear children, manage their house, and give critics no opportunity for slander. 15For some have already gone astray and now serve Satan. 16If any believer has widows under their care, let them continue to help them, so that the church will not bear that burden, if they are widows indeed.

17The elders that direct the affairs of the church are worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in teaching and preaching the word. 18For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle the ox that treads out the grain.” (Deut.25:4). And, “The laborer is worthy of his reward (wages).” (Matt.10:10, Luke 10:7). 19Do not listen to an accusation against an elder, unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. 20But rebuke (reprimand) in front of everyone, any elders that are sinning, so that others may also take warning. 21I charge you before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that you observe and abide by these instructions without partiality, doing nothing out of favoritism. 22Do not be hasty in appointing church leaders and laying on of hands; and do not share in other’s sins. Keep yourself pure. 23Do not drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach and your frequent illnesses. 24Some men's sins are so obvious that they precede them to the place of judgment; while some are revealed later, following after them. 25In the same way, the good works of some are obvious (plainly evident), while those that are not obvious will not remain hidden forever.