1 Timothy 5:15 (KJV)

What does 1 Timothy 5:15 mean?

1 Timothy 5:15 states that some people have already turned away from the right path and are now following Satan. This verse warns that certain individuals in the church have abandoned faithful living and are now influenced by evil.

Paul is writing to Timothy, a young church leader, about specific problems among the believers in Ephesus. In the wider context, Paul is especially concerned about some widows who, instead of living honorably, have become vulnerable to harmful influences. The verse highlights the real danger of being led astray and the seriousness with which Paul views such a turn.

The Greek behind 1 Timothy 5:15

• ἐξετράπησαν (exetrapēsan, "are turned aside"): This Greek word means to turn away or deviate from a path. Paul uses it to describe a deliberate move away from what is right, not just a minor mistake.
• ὀπίσω (opisō, "after"): This word means "behind" or "after," showing that those mentioned are now following in the footsteps or influence of Satan, rather than just making a one-time error.
• Σατανᾶ (Satanā, "Satan"): The name is used here to represent the personal force of evil, not just a general idea of wrongdoing. Paul is clear that the danger is not neutral; it is a real spiritual threat.

Why 1 Timothy 5:15 matters

• This verse clarifies that Paul sees spiritual danger as an active force, not just a passive drifting away, and he names Satan as the one being followed.
• It connects to Paul's practical instructions about caring for widows, showing that his concern is not only physical well-being but also spiritual faithfulness.
• The warning helps the reader understand the seriousness with which early church leaders viewed moral and spiritual lapses, especially among those who were supposed to be examples to others.