Timothy’s Task in Ephesus

1:3 As I urged you when I was leaving for Macedonia, stay on in Ephesus3 to instruct4 certain people not to spread false teachings,5 1:4 nor to occupy themselves with myths and interminable genealogies.6 Such things promote useless speculations rather than God’s redemptive plan7 that operates by faith. 1:5 But the aim of our instruction8 is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith.9 1:6 Some have strayed from these and turned away to empty discussion. 1:7 They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not understand what they are saying or the things they insist on so confidently.10

1:8 But we know that the law is good if someone uses it legitimately, 1:9 realizing that law11 is not intended for a righteous person, but for lawless and rebellious people, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers, 1:10 sexually immoral people, practicing homosexuals,12 kidnappers, liars, perjurers—in fact, for any who live contrary to sound teaching. 1:11 This13 accords with the glorious gospel of the blessed God14 that was entrusted to me.15

1:12 I am grateful to the one who has strengthened me, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he considered me faithful in putting me into ministry, 1:13 even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor, and an arrogant16 man. But I was treated with mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief, 1:14 and our Lord’s grace was abundant, bringing faith and love in Christ Jesus.17 1:15 This saying18 is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”—and I am the worst of them!19 1:16 But here is why I was treated with mercy: so that20 in me as the worst,21 Christ Jesus could demonstrate his utmost patience, as an example for those who are going to believe in him for eternal life. 1:17 Now to the eternal king,22 immortal, invisible, the only23 God, be honor and glory forever and ever!24 Amen.

1:18 I put this charge25 before you, Timothy my child, in keeping with the prophecies once spoken about you,26 in order that with such encouragement27 you may fight the good fight. 1:19 To do this28 you must hold firmly to faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and so have suffered shipwreck in regard to the faith. 1:20 Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I handed over to Satan29 to be taught not to blaspheme.