1 Timothy 1:8-11

Introduction

As we look into this short passage and continue in 1 Timothy, I want to answer several questions. Why is the law good? What power does the law have? How is the necessity of our Saviour brought to light in the law?

Why is the law good?

It reveal sin. It discloses previously unknown information. The law brings knowledge of human sin and the need for redemption.

King James Version Chapter 3

20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.

Holman New Testament Commentary: Romans C. Epilogue: Who God Judges (3:9–20)

Paul says that the law’s purpose is to let you know that the law cannot make you righteous. Rather, it is through the law [that] we become conscious of sin. In other words, when the law says, “Do this or that,” it is really saying, “You can’t do this or that.” The law wants you to know that you are guilty of not being able to keep it, and that your righteousness will never have its source in the law. The law tells you of your unrighteousness; the gospel tells you of the righteousness of God.

Restrain Sin (Temporally)

Redeeming Savior

I return to my final question, “How is the necessity of our Saviour brought to light in the law?”

We have seen that the law reveals sin. Without the law …

We have seen the law has limited power to restrain sin…

As a result, we are lost and condemned to an eternity in hell away from the Savior, but our passage highlights “the glorious gospel.” What is the gospel? It is the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Response