1 Timothy 1

1 Timothy 1 opens with Paul's greeting to Timothy and a reminder of his calling to ministry. Paul emphasizes the importance of sound doctrine, warning against false teachings and myths that lead people astray. He reflects on his own experience of God’s mercy and grace, highlighting the transformative power of the gospel and the importance of living faithfully as followers of Christ.

1 Timothy 1:1 (NKJV)
"Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God our Savior and the Lord Jesus Christ, our hope,"

Paul introduces himself as an apostle, appointed by the command of God and Jesus Christ, who is the source of hope. His apostleship is not by his own will but by divine authority, establishing the foundation of his message and ministry.

1 Timothy 1:2 (NKJV)
"To Timothy, a true son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord."

Paul addresses Timothy as his true spiritual son, expressing a deep bond between them. He extends blessings of grace, mercy, and peace, emphasizing the divine origin of these gifts from God the Father and Jesus Christ, underscoring the spiritual connection they share.

1 Timothy 1:3-4 (NKJV)
"As I urged you when I went into Macedonia—remain in Ephesus that you may charge some that they teach no other doctrine, nor give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which cause disputes rather than godly edification which is in faith."

Paul reminds Timothy of the importance of staying in Ephesus to confront false teachers. He warns against myths and speculative teachings that lead to division rather than promoting spiritual growth. Paul stresses that the focus of teaching should be on building faith and godly living, not on debates that distract from the truth.

1 Timothy 1:5 (NKJV)
"Now the purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith,"

Paul explains that the goal of the instruction is to produce love that comes from a heart purified by God, a clear conscience, and genuine faith. This shows that true Christian teaching aims to transform lives through love and integrity, rooted in a sincere relationship with God.

1 Timothy 1:6-7 (NKJV)
"From which some, having strayed, have turned aside to idle talk, desiring to be teachers of the law, understanding neither what they say nor the things which they affirm."

Paul points out that some have wandered from this focus, engaging in meaningless discussions. These individuals desire to be recognized as teachers of the law, but they lack true understanding. Their teaching is misguided because they do not comprehend the deeper meaning of the law they claim to uphold.

1 Timothy 1:8-9 (NKJV)
"But we know that the law is good if one uses it lawfully, knowing this: that the law is not made for a righteous person, but for the lawless and insubordinate, for the ungodly and for sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,"

Paul acknowledges that the law is valuable when it is used correctly, clarifying that its purpose is to expose sin and guide those who live in rebellion. The law is not for those who are already living righteously but for those who act in defiance of God’s commands, listing specific examples of sinful behavior.

1 Timothy 1:10-11 (NKJV)
"for fornicators, for sodomites, for kidnappers, for liars, for perjurers, and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine, according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God which was committed to my trust."

Paul continues listing behaviors that violate the law and contrasts them with sound doctrine. He emphasizes that anything contrary to sound teaching opposes the gospel he was entrusted with. This gospel is from God and carries the weight of His glory and blessing, reflecting its divine authority.

1 Timothy 1:12-14 (NKJV)
"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus."

Paul expresses gratitude to Jesus for calling him into ministry despite his past as a blasphemer and persecutor. He recognizes that his transformation was due to God’s mercy, received because of his ignorance before knowing the truth. God’s grace toward Paul was overwhelming, bringing faith and love through Christ.

1 Timothy 1:15 (NKJV)
"This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief."

Paul declares a fundamental truth: Jesus came to save sinners, and he considers himself the worst of them. His statement highlights both the depth of God’s grace and his personal humility, acknowledging how Christ’s mission to save sinners transformed his life.

1 Timothy 1:16 (NKJV)
"However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life."

Paul reflects that his experience of mercy serves as an example for others. His conversion demonstrates the patience of Christ, providing hope for all who would believe in Him and receive eternal life. Paul’s life is a testimony to the transforming power of the gospel.

1 Timothy 1:17 (NKJV)
"Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen."

Paul ends this section with a doxology, praising God as the eternal, immortal, and invisible King. He acknowledges God’s unmatched wisdom and gives Him all honor and glory, a fitting conclusion to his reflection on God’s grace and mercy.

1 Timothy 1:18-19 (NKJV)
"This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare, having faith and a good conscience, which some having rejected, concerning the faith have suffered shipwreck,"

Paul exhorts Timothy to remain faithful and fight the spiritual battle, reminding him of the prophecies spoken over his life. Timothy is to hold on to faith and maintain a clear conscience. Paul warns that those who reject these have wrecked their faith, showing the seriousness of staying true to God.

1 Timothy 1:20 (NKJV)
"Of whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I delivered to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme."

Paul concludes by mentioning two individuals, Hymenaeus and Alexander, who have strayed into blasphemy. By delivering them to Satan, Paul means he has excluded them from the fellowship of believers so they may face the consequences of their actions and hopefully repent.