1 Timothy 5:15
For some are already turned aside after Satan.
Original Language Analysis
γάρ
For
G1063
γάρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἐξετράπησαν
are
G1624
ἐξετράπησαν
are
Strong's:
G1624
Word #:
4 of 7
to deflect, i.e., turn away (literally or figuratively)
ὀπίσω
after
G3694
ὀπίσω
after
Strong's:
G3694
Word #:
5 of 7
to the back, i.e., aback (as adverb or preposition of time or place; or as noun)
Cross References
2 Peter 2:2And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.1 John 2:19They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.1 Timothy 1:20Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.2 Timothy 4:10For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.
Historical Context
Some young widows in Ephesus apparently broke vows of devotion to church service, fell into immoral behavior, and perhaps even joined false teachers (2 Timothy 3:6 mentions false teachers infiltrating households and 'leading captive silly women'). Their defection damaged both their own souls and the church's witness. Paul's strict guidelines prevent such tragedies.
Questions for Reflection
- How does idleness and self-indulgence constitute 'following Satan'?
- What warning does this verse give about the danger of unfulfilled vows or commitments?
- How can churches help prevent believers from 'turning aside' to follow destructive paths?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
For some are already turned aside after Satan (ἤδη γάρ τινες ἐξετράπησαν ὀπίσω τοῦ Σατανᾶ, ēdē gar tines exetrapēsan opisō tou Satana)—'for some have already turned away to follow Satan.' Ektrepō means to turn away, deviate, go astray. Opisō means 'after, behind'—following Satan rather than Christ.
This sobering statement explains Paul's urgency: some young widows have already fallen into the patterns he warned against (idleness, gossip, sensuality) and thereby fallen under Satan's influence. They've abandoned their devotion to Christ for destructive lifestyles.
The verse underscores the seriousness of the issue. This isn't hypothetical concern but observed reality in the Ephesian church. Young widows who pledged devotion to Christ but then pursued sensual pleasure, gossip, and idleness have effectively aligned with Satan's purposes rather than God's. Paul's preventive counsel (remarriage for younger widows, strict enrollment criteria for older widows) protects against such spiritual disaster.