1 Timothy 1:6 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Certain persons, by swerving from these, have wandered away into vain discussion,

NIV: Some have departed from these and have turned to meaningless talk.

NASB: Some people have strayed from these things and have turned aside to fruitless discussion,

CSB: Some have departed from these and turned aside to fruitless discussion.

NLT: But some people have missed this whole point. They have turned away from these things and spend their time in meaningless discussions.

KJV: From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;

NKJV: from which some, having strayed, have turned aside to idle talk,

Paul again refers to "certain persons" (1 Timothy 1:3) rather than using specific names. These people had diverted from the pure heart, good conscience, and sincere faith mentioned in the previous verse (1 Timothy 1:5). The Greek term Paul uses here is exetrapēsan, indicating deviation or missing the mark. In medical contexts, the same word was used to describe dislocated limbs. In other words, these false teachers had gotten their beliefs "bent out of shape," into something unnatural and unhealthy.

"Vain discussion" can also be translated as "empty talk," including the idea of random, unimportant discussion. Paul's point here is not to criticize serious study of the Law. Rather, he is condemning a legalistic, shallow focus on the Law, and the wrong uses of it. Myths—traditions—and genealogies had taken priority over the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, and the true teachings of the gospel.

In upcoming verses, Paul will point out that the Law is lawful when used "lawfully." In a very literal sense, in the original Greek, Paul is saying that the Law is a good thing when used as it is really meant to be used (1 Timothy 1:8). However, twisting the Law becomes a sin when it's used to promote false teachings or actions. Paul, here as elsewhere, emphasizes a distinction between the benefits of Scripture and the deceptions of those who misinterpret it. Scripture is flawless (Psalm 19; 2 Timothy 3:16–17), yet its readers often misunderstand it in "flawed" ways. Errors in interpretation are not errors in the Word of God.

First Timothy 1:3–11 explains the difference between a correct application of the law versus an ''illegal'' use of it. Paul's point is that the law is meant to make us aware of our sin, not to drive us into legalism. The false teachers of Ephesus are bickering over the law and missing the point. This is driven by their desire for prestige, even though they lack knowledge. Paul gives a list of sins parallel to the Ten Commandments showing how the law is meant to convict such people of sin as a means to explain the gospel of Christ.

Paul introduces himself and emphasizes the positive relationship he has with Timothy. The specific mission Timothy has in Ephesus is to oppose false teaching. Some of the Ephesians have rejected the importance of conscience and attempt to teach without having the required knowledge. As a result, they bicker over pointless issues and misuse the law given by God. Paul recognizes his own need for forgiveness and salvation, and encourages Timothy with a reminder that they share a common savior.

The first chapter of 1 Timothy frames the situation Paul is concerned about. In particular, he is worried about the false teachers plaguing the Ephesian church. These men are misusing the law, teaching false doctrines, and rejecting the importance of a clear conscience. Paul points out his own past sins and need for forgiveness, however. By anchoring his arguments in truth and in humility, Paul sets up the importance of the letter's instructions. These are not merely suggestions, they are vital strategies Timothy needs to understand.

First Timothy is one of Paul's three ''Pastoral Epistles.'' Paul's other letters, such as Romans, Ephesians, and Colossians, are meant for a broader audience. First Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus are written to specific people whom Paul is advising on how to best lead their local churches. These three letters present a close look at the form and function of church leadership. First Timothy, like 2 Timothy and Titus, is less formal and systematic, and more personal. This gives great insight into the way pastors, deacons, and elders ought to prioritize their time and energy.