1st Timothy Chapter 1, Part 2

In this section of 1 Timothy 1, Shawn and Delaney wrestle with Paul’s teaching on the law and its purpose. Paul writes that the law is not for the righteous but for the lawbreakers—a statement that raises the question of whether the law condemns everyone or applies especially to those living in rebellion. Shawn explains that Paul’s point is that the law has value primarily for those acting against God’s will, while mercy and grace are extended to those acting in ignorance or unbelief. They reflect on Paul’s own testimony as one who once persecuted believers but received mercy, highlighting how Christ’s grace works even when people don’t fully understand their actions.

The conversation then shifts to Paul’s bold declarations about Christ, God, and mediation. They discuss how Paul praises Jesus for his patience and role as mediator between God and man, raising questions about the nature of Christ’s identity—whether he is seen as God himself, or as mediator during his earthly ministry who became something greater after resurrection and return. Shawn emphasizes that understanding Christ requires looking at him in phases—before his incarnation, during his life, after resurrection, and now. This framing challenges traditional views like the Trinity, which attempt to collapse all these phases into a single static identity.