1 Timothy 1:5-11: The Goal of the Commandment
The Context
In 1 Timothy 1:5-11, the apostle Paul writes to Timothy, his young disciple, to address the false teachings that were creeping into the church in Ephesus. Paul's goal was to encourage Timothy to stay faithful to the true gospel and to remind him of the importance of preaching the truth in love.
The Problem of False Teachers
<sup>5</sup> The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. <sup>6</sup> Some have departed from these and have turned to meaningless talk. <sup>7</sup> They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently assert.
Paul highlights the problem of false teachers who have deviated from the true faith. These individuals have turned to "meaningless talk," which implies that their teaching is devoid of spiritual power and significance. They pretend to be experts in the law, but they lack understanding and confidence in their assertions.
The Purpose of the Law
<sup>8</sup> We know that the law is good if one uses it legitimately, <sup>9</sup> realizing that law is not intended for the righteous, but for the lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinful, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers, <sup>10</sup> for the sexually immoral, for those practicing homosexuality, for slave traders and liars and perjurers—and for whatever else is contrary to the sound teaching <sup>11</sup> that conforms to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was entrusted to me.
Paul reminds Timothy that the law is good when used correctly. The law is not intended for believers, but for the unrighteous and rebellious. Paul lists various forms of sin, including murderers, the sexually immoral, and liars, emphasizing that the law is meant to curb such sinful behavior. The gospel, on the other hand, is the glorious message of salvation that Paul has been entrusted with.
Conclusion
In 1 Timothy 1:5-11, Paul emphasizes the importance of staying true to the gospel and avoiding false teachings. He highlights the problem of false teachers who have departed from the faith and are spreading meaningless talk. The law is meant to regulate sinful behavior, but it is the gospel that brings salvation and transformation. As believers, we are called to uphold the truth in love and to preach the glorious gospel of the blessed God.
