John Calvin Commentary 1 Timothy 5:2

"the elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, in all purity." — 1 Timothy 5:2 (ASV)

The younger as sisters, with all chastity. The phrase, "with all chastity," relates to younger women, for at that age they ought always to dread every kind of suspicion. Yet Paul does not forbid Timothy to have any criminal or immodest conduct towards young women (for there was no need of such a prohibition), but only enjoins him to beware of giving wicked men any grounds for mockery. For this purpose, he demands a chaste gravity, which shall shine throughout all their interactions and conversation, so that he may more freely converse with young persons without any unfavorable reports.