1 Timothy 1

Paul charges Timothy to remain at Ephesus to confront those teaching “different doctrine” and devoting themselves to “myths and endless genealogies,” who have swerved from love and misused the law. The law is good when used lawfully, exposing sin, and it accords with “the glorious gospel of the blessed God.” Paul then bursts into thanksgiving for the mercy shown him: though “formerly a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent,” he received grace, “and the saying is trustworthy... that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost,” a display of Christ’s “perfect patience” for all who would believe. He charges Timothy to “wage the good warfare,” holding “faith and a good conscience.”