1 Timothy 1:3-11 – ‘an ethical manifesto of the use of the Decalogue in Christian ethics.’
Paul’s purpose:
(1) To confront the false teaching of the law-teachers.
(2) To give instruction on the right use of the law.
At issue: is the right and wrong use of the Moral Law – v.8
(1) Wrong Use of the Law – v.3-4 – These law-teachers were ‘trouble-makers’ in the church – stirring up controversies by using the law to promote their peculiar ideas, myths and genealogies. (Titus 3:9) ‘But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless.’ (v.6-7).
(2) Right Use of the Law – v.5 … to promote love and moral practice consistent with true faith.