Being born into a Christian family is not the same as being born again into God’s Family. One is based on our blood, the other is based on His blood.

1 Timothy 5:3
Honor widows who are really widows.

James 1:27
Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.

True religion covers the vulnerable and cares for those in trouble.

1 Timothy 5:4
But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety at home and to repay their parents; for this is good and acceptable before God.

The Church is a family, but it must not replace the responsibilities that God assigned to the family.

1 Timothy 5:5
Now she who is really a widow, and left alone, trusts in God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day.

1 Timothy 5:6
But she who lives in pleasure is dead while she lives.

When we aid people in sin, we only enable people to sin.

1 Timothy 5:7-8
And these things command, that they may be blameless. ⁸ But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

If our Christianity is not realized at home, it is not real outside of the home.

Discussion Questions

1. Discuss the significance of the biblical mandate to care for widows and orphans as a reflection of God’s character (Psalm 68:5; 146:9; 140:12; Proverbs 15:25; Deuteronomy 10:18; 27:19; 24:17; Isaiah 1:17). In addition, what was one of the reasons for developing and selecting deacons in the early church? (See Acts 6:1-4)
   

2. How do the teachings on honoring parents intersect with the responsibility to care for widows, especially those with children or grandchildren? What are the implications for the family within the context of the church?
   

3. Reflect on the concept of true religion, as outlined in James 1:27, and its connection to caring for widows and orphans. How does this challenge your faith?
   

4. Consider the warning against enabling sinful behavior by providing assistance without discernment. How can the church navigate the tension between compassion and accountability in helping those who have faced consequences due to their lifestyle choices?
   

5. Reflect on the implications of failing to provide for one’s own family, as described in 1 Timothy 5:7-8. How does this challenge our priorities and understanding of faith in action?