King James Version
What Does 1 Timothy 1:8 Mean?
“But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully;”
Context
6
From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling; having: or, not aiming at
7
Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.
8
But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully;
9
Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,
10
For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **But we know.**—Better, *Now we know*: a strong expression of his knowledge, learned in the school of the Holy Ghost. He spoke with the conscious authority of an Apostle, confident of the truth of what he preached and taught.
**That the law is good, if a man use it lawfully.**—“The Law is good,” St. Paul declared with apostolic authoritative knowledge, “should a man—*i.e., *a teacher of the Law—make use of it lawfully; if he should use it so as to make men conscious of their sins, conscious that of themselves they deserve no mercy, only punishment.” To press this sorrowful knowledge was the Law’s true work upon men. It was never intended to supply materials for casuistry and idle, profitless arguments. It was never meant as a system out of which man might draw material for self-deception. It was never meant as a system through which a man might imagine that by a compliance, more or less rigid, with its outer ritual he was satisfying all the higher requirements of justice and truth.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 Timothy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 Timothy 1:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 Timothy 1:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge