1 Timothy 5:15

KJV

For some are already turned aside after Satan.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} some {G5100} are {G1624} already {G2235} turned aside {G1624} after {G3694} Satan {G4567}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For already some have turned astray to follow the Adversary.

Berean Standard Bible

For some have already turned aside to follow Satan.

American Standard Version

for already some are turned aside after Satan.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse serves as a stark warning within Paul's pastoral instructions to Timothy concerning the care and conduct of widows in the early church. This verse reveals that some individuals, previously committed to Christian service or faith, had already deviated from their spiritual path, aligning themselves, perhaps unknowingly, with the purposes of Satan. It underscores the ever-present danger of spiritual drift and the adversary's influence, particularly when coupled with idleness or a lack of spiritual discipline.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a larger section of Paul's letter to Timothy (specifically [1 Timothy 5](/1_timothy/5 "1 Timothy 5 - Instructions for Church Order")) that provides detailed instructions on various groups within the Ephesian church, including elders, younger men and women, and particularly, widows. Paul delineates specific criteria for enrolling older widows for church support, emphasizing their proven godliness and service to others. However, he strongly advises against enrolling younger widows for this formal support, expressing concern that their natural desire to remarry, coupled with potential idleness, could lead them into temptation. He warns that such idleness might cause them to become "gossips and busybodies, saying things they ought not to say" ([1 Timothy 5:13](/1_timothy/5-13 "1 Timothy 5:13 - Idleness and Gossip")). The preceding verses ([1 Timothy 5:11-14](/1_timothy/5-11-14 "1 Timothy 5:11-14 - Younger Widows")) explain Paul's rationale, concluding with the direct justification in [1 Timothy 5:15](/1_timothy/5-15 "1 Timothy 5:15 - Warning Against Turning Aside"): "For some are already turned aside after Satan," indicating that this was not a hypothetical concern but an observed reality.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the Greco-Roman world, widows often faced significant social and economic vulnerability, making the church's provision for them a vital act of charity and practical theology. The early church, as it grew, developed structures to care for its members, including a formal "order of widows" who might have served in various capacities, such as prayer, hospitality, or teaching younger women. However, this structure also presented challenges. Younger widows, unlike older ones, might find it difficult to maintain a life of celibacy and dedicated service, especially if they lacked the maturity or spiritual grounding. The cultural expectation for women to marry and have children was strong. Furthermore, Ephesus, where Timothy was ministering, was a bustling metropolitan center known for its diverse religious practices, philosophical schools, and moral laxity. This environment presented numerous temptations and false teachings, making spiritual vigilance crucial. The early church was constantly battling external pressures and internal weaknesses, and Paul's instructions reflect a concern for maintaining purity, order, and spiritual integrity amidst these challenges.

* **Key Themes:** [1 Timothy 5:15](/1_timothy/5-15 "1 Timothy 5:15 - Warning Against Turning Aside") contributes to several key themes prevalent in [1 Timothy](/1_timothy/1 "1 Timothy - Paul's Letter to Timothy") and the broader Pauline epistles. One prominent theme is the **importance of sound doctrine and guarding against false teaching**. While not directly about heresy, turning "after Satan" implies a departure from truth and godly living, which can be influenced by or lead to doctrinal error. Another theme is **spiritual vigilance and discipline**. Paul's concern for the younger widows highlights that idleness and a lack of purposeful engagement can create fertile ground for temptation and spiritual decline, as seen in [1 Timothy 5:13](/1_timothy/5-13 "1 Timothy 5:13 - Idleness and Gossip"). The verse also underscores the **reality of spiritual warfare**, emphasizing that deviation from God's path is not merely human failing but can involve the active influence of the adversary, a concept Paul elaborates on in passages like [Ephesians 6:11-12](/ephesians/6-11-12 "Ephesians 6:11-12 - The Spiritual Battle"). Finally, it touches upon the theme of **church order and practical theology**, as Paul's instructions are designed to maintain the integrity and witness of the Christian community by preventing behaviors that bring reproach upon the faith.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **some (Greek, _tìs'_):** This indefinite pronoun refers to an unspecified number of individuals, indicating that the problem was not universal but significant enough to warrant Paul's strong caution. It suggests that actual instances of spiritual deviation had occurred among those who might have been considered for church support or who were already within the Christian community.
* **turned aside (Greek, _ektrépō'_):** Derived from `ek` (out of) and `trepō` (to turn), this verb literally means "to turn out of the way," "to deviate," or "to go astray." In a figurative sense, as used here, it denotes a departure from a correct course, whether morally, doctrinally, or spiritually. It implies a deliberate or gradual departure from the path of faith and godly conduct, rather than a mere stumble.
* **Satan (Greek, _Satanâs'_):** This term, of Chaldean origin, means "the accuser" or "adversary." It refers to the devil, the chief antagonist of God and humanity. To "turn aside after Satan" means to follow his purposes, to align with his agenda, or to become his instrument, even if unknowingly. It signifies a spiritual allegiance to the forces of evil, contrasting sharply with allegiance to Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For some are already turned aside":** This clause reveals the immediate justification for Paul's preceding counsel regarding younger widows. The word "already" (Greek: _ḗdē_) emphasizes the present reality and urgency of the situation; this was not a hypothetical danger but an observable problem within the Ephesian church. The phrase "turned aside" signifies a deviation from the path of faith, commitment, or godly living that these individuals were expected to uphold. It implies a significant spiritual departure.
* **"after Satan":** This phrase clarifies the ultimate direction and allegiance of those who have "turned aside." It indicates that their deviation is not merely a personal failing but a movement towards the adversary. This does not necessarily imply conscious allegiance or demonic possession, but rather that their actions, attitudes, or choices (perhaps born of idleness, gossip, or worldly desires as implied in the preceding verses) inadvertently or directly serve the purposes of the devil, who seeks to undermine faith and disrupt the church.

#### Literary Devices
[1 Timothy 5:15](/1_timothy/5-15 "1 Timothy 5:15 - Warning Against Turning Aside") primarily functions as a **Warning**, serving to justify Paul's stringent advice regarding younger widows. The phrase "turned aside after Satan" employs **Metaphor**, portraying spiritual deviation as a physical journey where one leaves the right path and begins to follow an adverse leader. Satan is **Personified** as a figure one can follow, implying an active, insidious influence rather than a mere abstract force of evil. This also utilizes **Hyperbole** to some extent, as "after Satan" is a strong, dramatic statement designed to emphasize the gravity of spiritual drift, even if the individuals themselves do not consciously pledge allegiance to the devil. The starkness of the language serves to shock and impress upon Timothy (and the church) the severe consequences of spiritual laxity and idleness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound warning in [1 Timothy 5:15](/1_timothy/5-15 "1 Timothy 5:15 - Warning Against Turning Aside") resonates deeply with core biblical themes of spiritual warfare, the reality of temptation, and the necessity of perseverance in faith. It highlights that the Christian life is not passive but an active engagement against forces that seek to draw believers away from Christ. The phrase "turned aside after Satan" underscores the theological truth that there are only two ultimate allegiances: to God or to His adversary. Any deviation from God's path, whether through idleness, worldly desires, or false teaching, ultimately serves the purposes of the enemy, even if the individual is unaware of this spiritual reality. This verse reminds us that the devil is a real, active foe who seeks to "devour" believers ([1 Peter 5:8](/1_peter/5-8 "1 Peter 5:8 - Be Sober, Be Vigilant")). Therefore, vigilance, spiritual discipline, and a steadfast commitment to Christ are paramount to avoid such a tragic spiritual trajectory.

* [Ephesians 6:11-12](/ephesians/6-11-12 "Ephesians 6:11-12 - The Armor of God")
* [James 4:7](/james/4-7 "James 4:7 - Resist the Devil")
* [2 Peter 2:20-22](/2_peter/2-20-22 "2 Peter 2:20-22 - Worse Than Before")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 Timothy 5:15](/1_timothy/5-15 "1 Timothy 5:15 - Warning Against Turning Aside") serves as a timeless and potent reminder for believers today about the subtle yet profound dangers of spiritual complacency and drift. It urges us to recognize that idleness, whether physical or spiritual, can create an open door for temptation and distraction, gradually pulling one away from their initial commitment to Christ. The phrase "after Satan" is a sobering call to acknowledge the reality of spiritual warfare and the adversary's insidious influence, which often operates not through overt rebellion but through a gradual turning away from truth, discipline, and godly pursuits. This verse challenges us to examine our own lives: Are there areas where we have become lax, allowing worldly desires or distractions to subtly redirect our allegiance? It underscores the critical importance of remaining watchful, rooted in faith, and actively engaged in meaningful service and spiritual disciplines to guard against the tragic outcome of unknowingly serving the purposes of the enemy. Our commitment to Christ must be active, vigilant, and constantly renewed through prayer, study of God's Word, and fellowship with other believers.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be susceptible to spiritual idleness or complacency, and how might these open a door to subtle spiritual drift?**
* **How does understanding the reality of spiritual warfare, as highlighted in this verse, impact my daily choices and my commitment to spiritual disciplines?**
* **What practical steps can I take to ensure I am actively following Christ and not, even inadvertently, turning aside after the adversary's agenda?**
* **How can my involvement in a supportive Christian community help me remain steadfast and avoid the pitfalls warned against in this verse?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean to "turn aside after Satan"? Does it imply demon possession or overt satanic worship?**

Answer: To "turn aside after Satan" in [1 Timothy 5:15](/1_timothy/5-15 "1 Timothy 5:15 - Warning Against Turning Aside") does not necessarily imply demon possession or conscious, overt satanic worship. Instead, it signifies a spiritual deviation where an individual's actions, attitudes, or lifestyle choices, even if seemingly mundane, align with or serve the purposes of the adversary. In the immediate context, Paul links this "turning aside" to idleness, gossip, and a desire for worldly pleasures ([1 Timothy 5:13](/1_timothy/5-13 "1 Timothy 5:13 - Idleness and Gossip")). These behaviors, while not overtly demonic, are contrary to godly living and can lead one away from Christ, effectively making them instruments of Satan's disruptive agenda within the church. It's a warning about the subtle, insidious ways the enemy can influence believers to stray from their faith and commitment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [1 Timothy 5:15](/1_timothy/5-15 "1 Timothy 5:15 - Warning Against Turning Aside") presents a stark warning about turning aside after Satan, its ultimate fulfillment and hope are found in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Christ is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep, promising that "no one will snatch them out of my hand" ([John 10:28](/john/10-28 "John 10:28 - My Sheep Hear My Voice")). His victory on the cross disarmed the spiritual powers and authorities, triumphing over them ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities")). For the believer, turning aside "after Satan" represents a tragic departure from the safety and provision found in Christ. However, Christ's work provides the means to resist the devil, for He Himself "destroyed the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil" ([Hebrews 2:14](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14 - Christ's Victory Over Death")). Through His indwelling Holy Spirit, believers are empowered to stand firm against temptation and the wiles of the enemy, enabling them to "resist the devil, and he will flee from you" ([James 4:7](/james/4-7 "James 4:7 - Resist the Devil")). Thus, while the warning is real, the ultimate security and power to overcome the adversary are rooted in the finished work of Christ and the ongoing ministry of the Spirit within us, calling us to remain steadfast in Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Peter 2:2

And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.

Jude 1:4

For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.

Jude 1:5

I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not.

2 Peter 2:20

For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.

2 Peter 2:22

But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.

1 John 2:19

They 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.

2 Timothy 4:10

For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.