Definition: But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Timothy 5:11. It's a really interesting and somewhat surprising passage about how people handle faith and commitment. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks to a situation where someone who has lost their spouse – they’re widowed – is starting to feel restless, dissatisfied, and maybe even angry with God. They're starting to question his plan for them and start thinking about finding a new way to live. It suggests that they might be tempted to not continue following God’s guidance and instead seek something else. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “But the younger widows refuse…” : This is the key part. It refers to women who are still young, newly widowed, and haven't fully embraced faith or a life guided by God. They’re refusing to follow what God has laid out for them. “…for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ…” : “Waxing wanton” means to become restless, agitated, or rebellious. It suggests that these women are feeling like they're not moving forward in the way they were intended. They’ve started to question God’s plan and feel a strong desire for something different. “…they will marry;” : This is the crucial part. The verse says that if they continue down this path of restlessness and rebellion, they will eventually start looking for another partner – marriage. So, what does it mean? It’s a warning about the potential for doubt and temptation. It suggests that when people are struggling with grief, loss, or feeling adrift, they might fall into a trap where they prioritize their own desires over God's guidance. It’s about resisting the urge to stray away from what's right and aligning themselves with faith and purpose. In essence, it’s a gentle reminder that it's okay to feel unsettled, but we need to stay on the path God has set for us. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted in the context of Paul’s ministry to a specific group of women – those who had experienced significant loss and were grappling with faith. It’s about recognizing the natural human tendency to seek external validation, even when it leads us astray. --- Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of this verse in more detail? Discuss its significance within Paul’s letters?