Chapter 4

On Widows and Slaves

¹ Do not let the widows be neglected; after the Lord, you yourself are to be their guardian.

² Let nothing be done without your consent, and do nothing yourself without God — as in fact you don’t. Stand firm.

³ Let the assemblies be held more frequently.

⁴ Seek out everyone by name.

⁵ Don’t treat male and female slaves with contempt; but neither should they themselves be puffed up — rather, let them serve all the more for the glory of God, so that they may obtain a better freedom from God.

⁶ They should not long to be set free at the community’s expense, lest they be found to be slaves of desire.