1 Timothy 5:8 (KJV)
But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
A believer who is worse than an infidel?
The word infidel means “disbelieving” or “without confidence.” I am reminded that the Bible says of unbelievers that they are without Christ and have no hope (Ephesians 2:12). Infidels might also be untrustworthy and unfaithful in their duties, but that is not always the case. It is not necessarily a terrible accusation to call someone an infidel. It is like the more commonly used (though probably no better received) word, “sinner.”
Words tend to take on different meanings—and therefore different reactions—over time.
But a believer who is “worse than an infidel”? How could that be?
The context has to do with providing for your own, especially those of your own house.
To be worse than an infidel would be:
Unfaithful in your family obligations.
Think of the father who abandons his wife for another woman—worse than an infidel.
Untrustworthy with your responsibilities.
I once knew a Christian man who lost his job. Rather than telling his wife, he would get up each morning, have her pack him a lunch, and then sit in the park for eight hours. She believed he was earning an income. He was not.
Lacking confidence.
The inability to confidently—and therefore competently—lead his family. A wife often begins to step outside her role when she loses confidence in her husband’s leadership.
It is impossible for one who is eternally saved to be worse off than one who is eternally lost.
The good news is this: the one who does not provide for his own house can heed the Word of God and step into his role.
It is also good news that the one who is lost need not remain lost. At any moment, he or she may hear the gospel, turn from rejection, receive Christ as Saviour, and be confidently assured of an eternal home with Him.
#ProvideForYourOwn #BiblicalManhood #FaithInAction #ChristianResponsibility #1Timothy58
When Faith Fails at Home: How Can a Christian Be Worse Than an Infidel?
What do you think this verse is teaching about responsibility in the home?
Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d value hearing your perspective.
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