1 Timothy 5:14

14. younger women—rather, as ellipsis ought to be supplied, "the younger widows," namely younger widows in general, as distinguished from the older widows taken on the roll of presbyteresses ( :-). The "therefore" means seeing that young widows are exposed to such temptations, "I will," or "desire," c. (1 Timothy 5:11-13). The precept here that they should marry again is not inconsistent with 1 Corinthians 7:40 for the circumstances of the two cases were distinct (compare 1 Corinthians 7:40- :). Here remarriage is recommended as an antidote to sexual passion, idleness, and the other evils noted in 1 Corinthians 7:40- :. Of course, where there was no tendency to these evils, marriage again would not be so requisite; Paul speaks of what is generally desirable, and supposing there should be danger of such evils, as was likely. "He does not impose a law, but points out a remedy, to younger widows" [CHRYSOSTOM].

bear children— (1 Corinthians 7:40- :); thus gaining one of the qualifications (1 Corinthians 7:40- :) for being afterwards a presbyteress widow, should Providence so ordain it.

guide—Greek, "rule the house" in the woman's due place; not usurping authority over the man (1 Corinthians 7:40- :).

give none occasion—literally, "starting-point": handle of reproach through the loose conduct of nominal Christians.

the adversary—of Christianity, Jew or Gentile. Philippians 1:28; Titus 2:8, "He that is of the contrary part." Not Satan, who is introduced in a different relation (1 Timothy 5:15).

to speak reproachfully—literally, "for the sake of reproach" (1 Timothy 3:7; 1 Timothy 6:1; Titus 2:5; Titus 2:10). If the handle were given, the adversary would use it for the sake of reproach. The adversary is eager to exaggerate the faults of a few, and to lay the blame on the whole Church and its doctrines [BENGEL].