12 Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith.
12 Thus they bring judgment on themselves, because they have broken their first pledge.
12 and so incur condemnation for having abandoned their former faith.
12 By breaking their word, they're liable to go from bad to worse,
12 having condemnation because they have cast off their first faith.
12 Then they would be guilty of breaking their previous pledge.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Timothy 5:12
Commentary on 1 Timothy 5:9-16
(Read 1 Timothy 5:9-16)
Every one brought into any office in the church, should be free from just censure; and many are proper objects of charity, yet ought not to be employed in public services. Those who would find mercy when they are in distress, must show mercy when they are in prosperity; and those who show most readiness for every good work, are most likely to be faithful in whatever is trusted to them. Those who are idle, very seldom are only idle, they make mischief among neighbours, and sow discord among brethren. All believers are required to relieve those belonging to their families who are destitute, that the church may not be prevented from relieving such as are entirely destitute and friendless.