Thoughts on 1 Timothy as Law vs. Grace

Law versus grace is really a false dichotomy. Some day we can work that out together; but here we will just dance on the margins of the controversy. The difficulty people have seems to rest on an inaccurate definition of law. But be that as it may, and as casually as I have framed it, I still want you to maintain that placeholder when reading 1 Timothy even though the letter doesn’t necessarily resolve the debate, law versus grace, but it will help you see how those two walk together, and agree.

It’s interesting how many times commands figure in Paul’s letter to Timothy, and its emphasis on the right exercise of authority in the church, in the home, in the family, and in the relationship between man and woman. Good questions to ask yourself when reading this letter are (i) what governs, or what is the governing principle, or what are the governing principles; and (ii) who governs by these principles, or who has the right to exercise these governing principles; and (iii) what is the proper exercise of these governing principles?

And in thinking of these questions, ask yourself what is the difference in what Paul relates in setting God’s household in Ephesus in order from how Jesus framed the law: Love the Lord your God, and love your neighbor as I have loved you? Do you see a difference? I don’t.

Paul contrasts loving God with the love of the world, which was influencing not a few Ephesian believers, and influencing them not only in dress, but also in practice. In fact, Paul warns that the love of the world will grow unto the possible overwhelming of the love for God. Rather than talking about it, he urged the get on with the business of loving your neighbor, whether she is a widow, or he is a master. And to love the old, like a father and mother, and the young as brother and sister, in all purity. And to be careful with all of God’s provision to not only excel in thankfulness, but to be rich in giving of the provision you have to others.

Even a man’s life in his home is not insular, inward looking; the end of looking to the needs of your family is outward looking, unto a broader guardianship over God’s little lambs and sheep, and unto the needy and oppressed.

The aim of Paul’s letter is this: love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. I think you will find if these are the defining characteristics of your life that all the Law and the Prophets will hang on this, and you will have a gospel to proclaim of the great work God has done in your heart.

Grace be with you.