Sharing Generously

Wednesday, September 9, 2015
1 Timothy 5:11-19 NIV 

11 As for younger widows, do not put them on such a list. For when their sensual desires overcome their dedication to Christ, they want to marry. 12 Thus they bring judgment on themselves, because they have broken their first pledge. 13 Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also busybodies who talk nonsense, saying things they ought not to. 14 So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander. 15 Some have in fact already turned away to follow Satan. 16 If any woman who is a believer has widows in her care, she should continue to help them and not let the church be burdened with them, so that the church can help those widows who are really in need. 17 The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. 18 For Scripture says, "Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain," and "The worker deserves his wages." 19 Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) After addressing the treatment of other church members, specifically the treatment of widows, what does the Apostle Paul write concerning the treatment of younger widows? Why? (v.11-13)
2) What was the apostle's counsel to younger widows? Why? (v.14-15)
3) What does Paul write concerning those believers who care for widows and the treatment of elders? Why? (v.16-19)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
4) How do you and/or your local church treat the widows in your congregation?

LIFE LESSONS
5) The Lord has always required His people to make provision for the poor, the needy, the orphan, and the widow.