being approved by good works, if she has brought up children, if she has been hospitable to strangers, if she has washed the saints' feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, and if she has diligently followed every good work.
Let not a widow be taken into the number: This phrase in verse 9 is essential in understanding this section of the study. The "number" necessarily implies that there is a certain class or category of widows whose entire living is to be supplied by the church. Any woman whose husband has died may be considered; however, only those who meet the following guidelines Paul begins laying down in verse 5 may be selected to receive their living from the church.