Understanding the Law. 1 Timothy 1:8-11.
Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it lawfully, understanding that the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, The sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine, In accordance with the gospel of the glory of the blessed God with which I have been entrusted.
Dear Saints,
The false teachers in Ephesus purported to be teachers of the law. But Paul they had no understanding, so he now shows Timothy – and them, what the law is about.
Proper Use (v. 8). The law, like everything else, must be applied correctly. Misapplied, the law will appear evil. The possibility here is that the false teachers were misrepresenting the law and applying it in situations it was not meant to address. One likely possibility is that they were trying to convince Christians to observe the law, as the Jews did.
Parameters (vv. 9-10). The law was meant for the lawless! People who do evil need restraint, so the law was given to set boundaries for them. Paul purposely lists all manner of evildoers, in order to make it clear, without having to say so, that those who are in Christ do not belong to that group. He is saying to the false teachers, You are talking to the wrong crowd. Go look for the lawless.
Plan (v. 11). Paul declares that the law is in agreement with the gospel he preaches. This echoes his words to the Galatians earlier, that there is no conflict between the fruit of the Spirit and the law (Galatians 5:22-23). Before one goes to find fault with believers, Paul wants to make it clear that they are covered because of their faith in Jesus.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.