What role does the law play according to 1 Timothy 1:10? Setting the Scene Paul reminds Timothy that the Mosaic Law is “good if one uses it lawfully” (1 Timothy 1:8). Verses 9-10 then spell out the specific kinds of people for whom the law was designed. What Does 1 Timothy 1:10 Say? “for the sexually immoral, for homosexuals, for slave traders and liars and perjurers, and for anyone else who is averse to sound teaching”. Seeing the Larger Context: 1 Timothy 1:8-11 • v. 8—The law is good when used properly. • v. 9—It is laid down “not for the righteous, but for the lawless and disobedient.” • v. 9-10—A representative list of sins (ending with v. 10). • v. 11—All of this is “in accord with the glorious gospel of the blessed God.” Key Insights About the Law in v. 10 • Diagnostic: The law identifies behaviors that violate God’s moral order—sexual immorality, human trafficking, deceit, perjury, and all resistance to sound doctrine. • Restraining: By naming these sins, the law sets clear boundaries that curb evil actions in society. • Convicting: It exposes sinners to their need for forgiveness, driving them to the gospel (cf. v. 11). • Protective: It guards the purity of “sound teaching,” ensuring that believers recognize false practices and doctrines. Complementary Scriptures • Romans 3:20—“Through the law we become conscious of sin.” • Romans 7:7—“I would not have known sin except through the law.” • Galatians 3:24—“The law was our guardian to lead us to Christ.” • Psalm 19:7—“The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul.” • 1 John 3:4—“Everyone who practices sin practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness.” Putting It Together According to 1 Timothy 1:10, the law functions as a moral spotlight, revealing specific sins that stand in opposition to “sound teaching.” By exposing and restraining these deeds, it prepares hearts to embrace the “glorious gospel” that offers cleansing and transformation through Christ. Living in Light of the Law and the Gospel • Let the law clarify what God calls sin. • Acknowledge where it convicts, and confess quickly. • Rejoice that the same passage that condemns sin points directly to the gospel that saves and sanctifies. |
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