Paul’s instructions to Timothy on how to lead the church now turns to interpersonal relationships. At times everyone needs correction but Timothy was not to be harsh and rebuke people but treat them as members of a family, which the church is. He was to deal with those older than him like he would his mom or dad and his peers and those younger than him like a brother or sister. Paul adds the extra warning that he was to deal with the younger women in all purity. Extra care must be taken by men in leadership when it comes to their relationship and interactions with women to ensure that purity is maintained at all times.
Can your relationships with others in the church be described as familial relationships?

The church is to take responsibility for widows who are without children. Those who have children or grandchildren should be cared for by their family. Our parents care for us when we are young and we have the responsibility to care for them as they age. If we don’t then we are worse than unbelievers who generally provide for their parents even without this command from God.
A widow who does not have children and has not remarried is to be cared for by the church provided she exhibits a life dedicated to God and not one lived in self-indulgence.

The church was designed by God to operate as a large family, looking out for one another and caring for each other. God also designed the family to be where we should learn these loving relationships. Too often our families are where our relationships first break down. Remember that elders are to show their ability to lead by first leading their families. Our godliness must begin within our family and then work outward from that. How are you doing with your family, and your church relationships?