1.What are some of the metaphors the Bible uses to describe the church? What metaphor is Paul using in this paragraph?

2. In verses 1-2, what reasons can you think of for Paul's directive in the way Timothy treats church members: older men, younger men, older women, younger women? How does this apply to our church culture?

3. According to verses 3-8, what is the church's responsibility toward widows, orphans, single moms, etc? What conditions apply? What is different in our time and culture?

4. In verses 9-15, Ephesus apparently had a list of sister widows who served the church in an official capacity. What were the prerequisites for serving in this position? Is there such a place in the church today? Why, or why not?

5. What contemporary application can be made to service in the church today by retirees? What should their service, role, or position be? Why isn't that happening now?