_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ 1 Timothy 1:1. BY THE COMMANDMENT.—The usual expression has been “by the will of God.” There is a perceptible ring of austerity about the word for “commandment.” Paul IS an apostle in accordance with the behest of God. GOD OUR SAVIOUR.—A designation not often found... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ 1 Timothy 1:3. CHARGE SOME THAT THEY TEACH NO OTHER DOCTRINE.—R.V. “charge certain men not to teach a different doctrine.” It is doctrine that differs in quality that was not to be taught. In his impassioned address to the Galatians St. Paul would anathematise “even... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ 1 Timothy 1:5. THE END OF THE COMMANDMENT.—The end is not the same thing as the fulfilment of the law. It is the goal towards which, with strenuous endeavour, each Christian must press on. “Commandment” (R.V. “charge”) is the monitory teaching—a touch of severity cl... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ 1 Timothy 1:8. WE KNOW THAT THE LAW IS GOOD.—The “grace and truth” which “came by Jesus Christ” did not abrogate the law. That law had a moral excellence, was indeed an admirable thing, provided that it was used legitimately. 1 Timothy 1:9. THE LAW IS NOT MADE FOR.—... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ 1 Timothy 1:12. HE COUNTED ME FAITHFUL.—For the very reason that he had been “a blasphemer and a persecutor and injurious,” the Jerusalem Christians looked askance at him when he was introduced as a brother; Ananias at Damascus thought his penitence a ruse, and Paul... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ 1 Timothy 1:18. PROPHECIES WHICH WENT BEFORE ON THEE.—The prophecies went forward, as it were the heralds and avant-couriers of the actions which they foretold (_Ellicott_). See 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:16. THOU BY THEM MIGHTEST WAR A GOOD WARFARE.—A frequent met... [ Continue Reading ]