In 1 Timothy 1:12-20 Paul thanks Christ for appointing him to ministry despite his past as a blasphemer, showing that he received mercy and grace. Calling himself the foremost sinner, he highlights God’s patience as an example to others. He praises God and charges Timothy to remain faithful, warning him with the example of Hymenaeus and Alexander, who were disciplined for rejecting the faith.
1 Timothy 1:6–11 warns against those who have turned from sound teaching to fruitless discussion, desiring to be teachers of the Law without understanding it. Paul clarifies that the Law is not for the righteous but for the lawless and sinful, listing specific moral violations. He concludes that the proper use of the Law aligns with the gospel he was entrusted to proclaim.
A closer look at Matthew 15:21-28 (Mark 7:24-30)
1 Timothy 1:1–5 opens with Paul’s greeting to Timothy, affirming his apostolic authority by the command of God and Christ Jesus. He urges Timothy to remain in Ephesus to confront false teachers promoting myths and speculations rather than God’s redemptive plan. Paul emphasizes the goal of his instruction: love that flows from a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith—highlighting the pastoral and ethical aim of sound doctrine.
Mark 15:16–41 recounts Jesus’ mockery, crucifixion, and death. Roman soldiers humiliate Him, He is crucified at Golgotha, darkness covers the land, and Jesus dies with a loud cry. The temple veil tears, and a centurion declares, “Truly this man was the Son of God.” Women followers witness from a distance.
In Mark 15:1–15, Jesus is brought before Pilate by the chief priests. Though Pilate finds no guilt in Him, the crowd—stirred by the leaders—demands the release of Barabbas instead. Yielding to political pressure and to satisfy the crowd, Pilate condemns Jesus to be crucified.
