11 and younger widows be refusing, for when they may revel against the Christ, they wish to marry, 12 having judgment, because the first faith they did cast away, 13 and at the same time also, they learn 'to be' idle, going about the houses; and not only idle, but also tattlers and busybodies, speaking the things they ought not;
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Timothy 5:11-13
Commentary on 1 Timothy 5:9-16
(Read 1 Timothy 5:9-16)
Every one brought into any office in the church, should be free from just censure; and many are proper objects of charity, yet ought not to be employed in public services. Those who would find mercy when they are in distress, must show mercy when they are in prosperity; and those who show most readiness for every good work, are most likely to be faithful in whatever is trusted to them. Those who are idle, very seldom are only idle, they make mischief among neighbours, and sow discord among brethren. All believers are required to relieve those belonging to their families who are destitute, that the church may not be prevented from relieving such as are entirely destitute and friendless.