Paul, like Peter, did not simply state that women should be modestly dressed. Whereas Peter added that they should be adorned with a meek and quiet spirit, Paul insisted that modest dress must be accompanied by good works. Once again, there is a danger of Christians putting undue emphasis on the dress aspect and failing to consider the positive part of the exhortation.
Some might be inclined to argue that all Christians, not only the women, should be characterized by good works. This is true and the Scriptures certainly do exhort us all in this area. There is, however, a certain line of responsibilities connected with being a Christian wife that can be classified as good works. The widow of 1 Tim. 5:1010Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work. (1 Timothy 5:10) is not a specific woman but rather representative of those who take on the role of being a wife. Good works are to witness to her right to assembly care in her old age. While she had followed every good work, specific ones are mentioned. This woman of God exercised hospitality. This goes with the role of being a Christian wife just as providing for the family goes with the role of being a husband. It is one which must be carried out in order for the husband to be an overseer among the Lord's people (1 Tim. 3:22A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach; (1 Timothy 3:2)).
In other areas, it appears that the widow had been, in addition to exercising hospitality, a helpful servant to all the Lord's people (washing their feet). Perhaps this speaks of the little things done that require personal sacrifice and a lowly spirit: things that did not bring much notice but things that were said and done for the welfare of His people. Furthermore, she was to impart relief where it was needed. How many believers and unbelievers need relief of some kind today!
Perhaps Phoebe (Rom. 16:1, 21I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: 2That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succorer of many, and of myself also. (Romans 16:1‑2)) is a specific scriptural example of what is suggested in 1 Tim. 5:1010Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work. (1 Timothy 5:10). Paul said that this sister had been a helper of many. The word "helper" (JND) here is a strong one implying that she had been a patron of many. A patron is one who makes our total welfare his responsibility: one who supports us through failures and victories. There is a great need of such helpers in our assemblies—among young and old. I suppose Phoebe never had to wonder what to do when her housework was done. The wife who is characterized by good works has a full-time position!