1 Timothy 1: Reading Notes

My paraphrase from NKJ, NLT, 

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Paul identifies himself as appointed by God and Christ.

In the greeting, he describes Timothy as a true son in the faith.

He recaps that he told him to stay in Ephesus to combat incorrect teaching that leads to talking about pointless theories, sideways energy, in contrast to teaching that furthers God's plan, teaching that is practical, strengthening, and in faith.

Types of teaching he identifies as meaningless: discussions of myths and spiritual pedigrees.  

Paul says that "on point" teaching focuses on love that comes from a pure heart, clean conscience, and authentic faith.

Some have wandered from this into unproductive talk. They want to teach the law and do so with an air of competency, but they don't understand what they are asserting to be true.

The law is good if used correctly.  It was made for the lawless, not for those making the right choices.

Some of the lawlessness listed: those who do not distinguish between holy and base, liars, perjurers, fornicators, sodomites, murderers, kidnappers, slave traders, and anything else contrary to sound doctrine.   According to the gospel committed in trust to Paul.

Paul thanks Christ for putting him into the ministry and giving him the power to do his work.

Admits he was a blasphemer, persecutor, insolent man, but was given mercy because he did this in ignorance.

But Christ came into the world to save sinners, of whom he is the head.  He is also a prime display for the patience of God for him, as an illustration to those believing in Christ for everlasting life.

All honor goes to God who lasts forever and is invisible.

Paul commits this order to Timothy, in light of prior prophecies made about him, that with these in mind he might battle for good, with faith and a clean conscience which some have rejected.

Don't go against your conscience or it may wreck your faith.

Paul identifies Hymenaeus and Alexander as persons he's given over to Satan, that they might learn not to  slander God. 

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