1Timothy 5:9-12 Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man, Well 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. But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry; Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith.
‘Damnation’ – Condemnation [Greek: krima] a judgment; sentence. Translated “damnation” when meaning loss of soul (5:12; Matt. 23:14; Mark 12:40; Luke 20:47; Rom. 3:12); “condemnation” (3:6; Jas. 3:1; Jude 1:4). It is used for men condemning Christ to death (Luke 23:40; 24:20); of God’s “vengeance” on rebels (Rev. 18:20); of “judgment” where the loss of the soul is meant (Matt. 7:2; John 9:39; Acts 24:25; Rom. 2:2-3; 5:16; 11:33; Gal. 5:10; Heb. 6:2; 1Pet. 4:17; 2Pet. 2:3; Rev. 17:1); of “power of judgment” to the saints (Rev. 20:4); of “going to law” (1Cor. 6:7); of “condemnation” of saints (1Cor. 11:34); of human and divine “damnation” (Rom. 13:2); and of men “damning” themselves (1Cor. 11:29).
It is not sinful to marry, but any marriage causing one to break their vows to God is to be avoided. Marriage is honourable to all (Heb. 13:4). Paul advises remarriage here, as a measure against the evils of 1Timothy 5:11-15.
‘Cast off’ [Greek: atheteo] Translated “cast off” (5:12); “reject” (Mark 6:26; 7:9; Luke 7:30; John 12:48); “despise” (Luke 10:16; 1Thess. 4:8; Heb. 10:28; Jude 1:8); “bring to nothing” (1Cor. 1:19); “disannul” (Gal. 3:15); and “frustrate” (Gal. 2:21). If one does this to his faith will faith save his soul despite his not having it?
Living the Word 