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in The Gospel Messenger vol. 21 no. 11 (Nov. 1899)
AUTHOR: | Hassell, Sylvester |
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Q. In 1 Tim. v. 8, what does Paul mean by “his own,” “his own house”—is it his church or his natural family?
A. His natural family, as proved by the fourth verse, which says—”But if any widow have children or grandchildren (the original word means grandchildren or descendants, and the old English word ‘nephews,’ used in the King James Version, had this meaning), let them learn first to show piety (to be dutiful) at home (literally, as to their own house), and to requite their parents (their progenitors, not only parents but grandparents); for that is good and acceptable before God.”
Then the eighth verse reads—”But if any provide not for his own (that is, his own relatives), and specially for those of his own house (or household, his immediate family, including his parents and grandparents, who usually live in the house or family of one of their children), he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel (or unbeliever)”—for even an unbeliever generally performs these natural duties to his parents and grandparents. Children and grandchildren, especially those who profess to he Christians, should support their own aged, infirm, and dependent parents and grandparents, and not burden the church with their support. Faith without love and the works of love is dead. |
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