Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the role of a wife is multifaceted, encompassing responsibilities within the family, the community, and her relationship with God. A recurring theme in Scripture is the virtue of benevolence, particularly towards the poor and needy. This characteristic is often highlighted as a hallmark of a good and godly wife.Proverbs 31:20 provides a vivid depiction of a virtuous wife, stating, "She opens her arms to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy." This passage is part of the larger description of the "wife of noble character," whose actions are marked by wisdom, diligence, and compassion. Her benevolence is not merely an act of charity but a reflection of her inner character and commitment to living out her faith. The biblical narrative often associates the care for the poor with righteousness and obedience to God's commandments. In Deuteronomy 15:11, the Israelites are instructed, "For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you to open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor in your land." A good wife, in alignment with this command, embodies this spirit of generosity, recognizing the importance of supporting those in need as an expression of her faith. The New Testament also reinforces this principle. In 1 Timothy 5:10, the Apostle Paul outlines the qualifications for widows to receive church support, noting that they should be "well known for good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in distress, and devoting themselves to every good work." This passage underscores the expectation that women, including wives, should be active in benevolent deeds, serving others as a testament to their faith. The example of Tabitha (also known as Dorcas) in Acts 9:36 further illustrates this virtue. She is described as "full of good works and acts of charity." Her life of service and generosity had a profound impact on her community, demonstrating the powerful influence a benevolent wife can have. In the broader biblical narrative, the benevolence of a good wife is not limited to material assistance but extends to emotional and spiritual support. Her actions are a reflection of her heart, aligned with the teachings of Christ, who emphasized love and service to others. The good wife, through her benevolence, not only fulfills her role within the family but also contributes to the well-being of her community, embodying the love and compassion that are central to the Christian faith. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 31:20She stretches out her hand to the poor; yes, she reaches forth her hands to the needy. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Acts X 'Over against his House' The Third Continental Journey. Letter cxxxviii. (AD 412. ) Family Religion. What Carey did for Literature and for Humanity Nothing but Leaves Methodist Book Concern The First Native Converts and Christian Schools False Comforts for Sinners. Resources Why did God allow polygamy / bigamy in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did David need Abishag to keep him warm when he had wives and concubines? | GotQuestions.org Does the Bible truly teach monogamy / monogamous relationships? | GotQuestions.org Wives: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Wives of Ministers should be Exemplary Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To be Faithful to Them Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To be Subject to Them Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To Love Them Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To Obey Them Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To Remain With Them for Life Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To Reverence Them Wives: Good are a Blessing to Husbands Wives: Good are a Token of the Favour of God Wives: Good are Benevolent to the Poor Wives: Good are Diligent and Prudent Wives: Good are Praised by Husbands Wives: Good: Bring Honor on Husbands Wives: Good: Duty of, to Unbelieving Husbands Wives: Good: Secure Confidence of Husbands Wives: Good: should be Silent in the Churches Wives: Not to be Selected from Among the Ungodly Wives: should be Adorned with a Meek and Quiet Spirit Wives: should be Adorned with Good Works Wives: should be Adorned with Modesty and Sobriety Wives: should be Adorned: Not With Ornaments Wives: should Seek Religious Instruction from Their Husbands Related Terms |
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