1 Timothy 1:9-10: The Purpose of the Law
The Law and the Wicked
In 1 Timothy 1:9-10, Paul writes:
"...knowing this: that the law is not made for a righteous person, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers, for fornicators and sodomites, for kidnappers, for liars, for perjurers, and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine..."
The Purpose of the Law Revealed
Paul is stating that the law was not intended for righteous people, but for those who are wicked and disobedient. In essence, the law is not for those who are already walking in righteousness, but for those who are living in opposition to God's will.
A List of Wickedness
Paul then proceeds to list various examples of those who are lawless and disobedient, including:
- The ungodly and profane: those who have no reverence for God and live in opposition to His will.
- Those who kill their fathers or mothers: those who commit violent acts against their family members.
- Murderers: those who take the lives of others.
- Fornicators and sodomites: those who engage in immoral sexual behavior.
- Kidnappers: those who take people against their will.
- Liars and perjurers: those who deceive and lie, and those who make false oaths.
The Law and Sound Doctrine
Paul finishes by stating that the law is contrary to sound doctrine. This means that the law is not in line with the teaching of sound doctrine, which is the doctrine of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
In 1 Timothy 1:9-10, Paul reminds us that the law was not intended for those who are righteous, but for those who are wicked and disobedient. The law is not a means of salvation, but rather a means of pointing out our sins and pointing us to the salvation that is found in Jesus Christ.
