9. Let a widow be enrolled if she is not less than sixty years old, married only once,
10. with a reputation for good works, namely, that she has raised children, practiced hospitality, washed the feet of the holy ones, helped those in distress, involved herself in every good work.
11. But exclude younger widows, for when their sensuality estranges them from Christ, they want to marry
12. and will incur condemnation for breaking their first pledge.
13. And furthermore, they learn to be idlers, going about from house to house, and not only idlers but gossips and busybodies as well, talking about things that ought not to be mentioned.
14. So I would like younger widows to marry, have children, and manage a home, so as to give the adversary no pretext for maligning us.
15. For some have already turned away to follow Satan.
16. If any woman believer has widowed relatives, she must assist them; the church is not to be burdened, so that it will be able to help those who are truly widows.
17. Presbyters who preside well deserve double honor, especially those who toil in preaching and teaching.
18. For the scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox when it is threshing,” and, “A worker deserves his pay.”
19. Do not accept an accusation against a presbyter unless it is supported by two or three witnesses.
20. Reprimand publicly those who do sin, so that the rest also will be afraid.
21. I charge you before God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels to keep these rules without prejudice, doing nothing out of favoritism.
22. Do not lay hands too readily on anyone, and do not share in another’s sins. Keep yourself pure.