1 Timothy 1:8

But we know that the law [is] good, if a man use it lawfully;

But {G1161} we know {G1492} that {G3754} the law {G3551} is good {G2570}, if {G1437} a man {G5100} use {G5530} it {G846} lawfully {G3545};

We know that the Torah is good, provided one uses it in the way the Torah itself intends.

Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it legitimately.

But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully,

Commentary

The Apostle Paul, writing to his young protégé Timothy in Ephesus, addresses the proper understanding and use of God's Law. This verse serves as a crucial clarification amidst confusion and false teachings prevalent in the early church.

Context

In the opening chapter of 1 Timothy, Paul warns against those who were "desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm" (1 Timothy 1:7). These individuals were likely promoting speculative doctrines and misinterpreting the Mosaic Law, perhaps using it to impose burdens or to justify ungodly behavior. Paul's statement in verse 8 directly counters such misuse, affirming the Law's inherent goodness while stressing the importance of its proper application within the context of Christian faith.

Key Themes

  • The Law's Divine Origin and Goodness: Paul unequivocally states that "the law is good." This highlights that the Law originates from God, reflecting His holy and righteous character. It is not inherently flawed or evil, a point Paul also emphasizes in Romans 7:12, where he calls the law "holy, and just, and good." The problem, therefore, is not with the Law itself, but with how it is perceived and applied.
  • Proper Use of the Law: The critical condition is "if a man use it lawfully." This implies that the Law has a specific, God-intended purpose. It is not given as a means to earn salvation or justify oneself before God, for salvation comes by grace through faith in Christ. Instead, the Law serves primarily to expose sin and demonstrate humanity's inability to perfectly fulfill God's righteous standards, thus pointing to the need for a Savior. It also functions as a guide for righteous living for those who are already in Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "lawfully" is nomimōs (νομίμως). This adverb means "according to law," "in a lawful manner," or "properly." It suggests adherence not just to the letter of the law, but to its true spirit and intent. When Paul says to use the law nomimōs, he is emphasizing that it must be applied in a way consistent with God's ultimate redemptive plan, which culminates in Christ. It's about understanding the Law's role within God's grand narrative of salvation, not as an independent path to righteousness.

Related Scriptures

  • Revealing Sin: The Law's primary function in the New Covenant understanding is to make sin known. As Paul writes in Romans 3:20, "by the law is the knowledge of sin."
  • Guiding to Christ: The Law serves as a "schoolmaster" or "tutor" to bring us to Christ, as mentioned in Galatians 3:24. It shows our need for a Savior, demonstrating that no one can be justified by perfectly keeping its demands.
  • Holiness and Righteousness: For believers, the Law continues to provide a standard of God's holiness and righteousness, guiding ethical conduct without being a burden for salvation.

Practical Application

For Christians today, 1 Timothy 1:8 reminds us that the Law is good because it reflects God's character and His will for humanity. We are not under the Law as a means of salvation (for we are saved by grace), but we are still called to live righteously. The Law serves as a mirror, showing us our sin and our ongoing need for Christ's grace and transforming power. It also provides moral guidelines that help us understand what pleases God and how to live a life that honors Him. We must avoid legalism (trying to earn God's favor by keeping rules) and antinomianism (believing that grace allows us to disregard moral standards). Instead, we are called to live by the Spirit, which enables us to naturally fulfill the righteous requirements of the Law.

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Cross-References

  • Romans 7:12 (9 votes)

    Wherefore the law [is] holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.

  • Romans 7:13 (9 votes)

    Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.

  • Psalms 19:7 (6 votes)

    ¶ The law of the LORD [is] perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD [is] sure, making wise the simple.

  • Psalms 19:10 (6 votes)

    More to be desired [are they] than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.

  • Romans 7:16 (6 votes)

    If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that [it is] good.

  • 2 Timothy 2:5 (5 votes)

    And if a man also strive for masteries, [yet] is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.

  • Galatians 3:21 (4 votes)

    [Is] the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.