9. To be on the list of widows, a woman must be at least sixty years old. She must have been faithful to her husband.
10. She must be known for her good works—works such as raising her children, welcoming strangers, washing the feet of God’s people, helping those in trouble, and giving her life to do all kinds of good deeds.
11. But do not put younger widows on that list. After they give themselves to Christ, they are pulled away from him by their physical desires, and then they want to marry again.
12. They will be judged for not doing what they first promised to do.
13. Besides that, they learn to waste their time, going from house to house. And they not only waste their time but also begin to gossip and busy themselves with other people’s lives, saying things they should not say.
14. So I want the younger widows to marry, have children, and manage their homes. Then no enemy will have any reason to criticize them.
15. But some have already turned away to follow Satan.
16. If any woman who is a believer has widows in her family, she should care for them herself. The church should not have to care for them. Then it will be able to take care of those who are truly widows.
17. The elders who lead the church well should receive double honor, especially those who work hard by speaking and teaching,
18. because the Scripture says: “When an ox is working in the grain, do not cover its mouth to keep it from eating,” and “A worker should be given his pay.”
19. Do not listen to someone who accuses an elder, without two or three witnesses.
20. Tell those who continue sinning that they are wrong. Do this in front of the whole church so that the others will have a warning.
21. Before God and Christ Jesus and the chosen angels, I command you to do these things without showing favor of any kind to anyone.