1 Timothy 1:10 – “for the sexually immoral, for those practicing homosexuality, for slave traders and liars and perjurers-and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Paul continues listing the kinds of behaviors and lifestyles that go against God’s law. He had just said in verse 9 that the law is for the ungodly and rebellious. Now, in verse 10, he gets more specific. He mentions the sexually immoral, those practicing homosexuality, slave traders, liars, and perjurers. Then he adds a sweeping phrase to cover anything else that is “contrary to the sound doctrine.”
Paul isn’t picking on people-he’s giving examples of how sin shows up in real life. These sins aren’t just private mistakes; they’re violations of God’s design for how people should live, treat others, and walk in truth. This list isn’t meant to shame people but to show how far people can drift from God when they ignore His ways. And the law is meant to shine a light on these sins, not to condemn without hope, but to point people toward the truth.
Historical Context
In the culture Timothy was working in-especially in a place like Ephesus-these sins weren’t just tolerated, they were often celebrated or ignored. Sexual immorality was common in both pagan temples and personal life. Slavery was accepted as normal. Lying and perjury were part of political and business dealings. Some false teachers even claimed to be spiritual while living in ways that totally rejected God’s standards.
Paul is telling Timothy to stand firm and speak clearly, even when culture says the opposite. Timothy’s role was to guard the gospel and teach sound doctrine. That meant being clear about what sin is, even when it was uncomfortable or unpopular.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches us that God defines right and wrong, not culture. The behaviors listed here are not just social issues-they are moral and spiritual issues. God’s law exposes these things as sinful, not to destroy people, but to call them to repentance.
The phrase “sound doctrine” means healthy, true teaching. Anything that goes against God’s Word leads to spiritual sickness. But sound doctrine brings clarity, conviction, and hope.
Also, this verse reminds us that sin is not limited to just one group. The list includes sexual sins, sins against human dignity (like slave trading), and sins of speech (lying, perjury). It shows that all sin matters to God-and that everyone needs His grace.
Literary Analysis
This verse is the second half of a longer sentence that started in verse 9. Paul is making a list, and he moves from general to specific. His list is not exhaustive, which is why he ends with “whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine.” This is a powerful summary. Instead of debating a full list of wrongs, Paul ties everything back to the clear teaching of God’s Word.
By naming certain sins and then opening the door for anything else that opposes truth, Paul shows that sin is not just about rule-breaking-it’s about rebellion against God’s truth.
Biblical Cross-References
- Romans 1:26–27 – Paul talks about the effects of rejecting God, including dishonorable passions and same-sex behavior.
- 1 Corinthians 6:9–11 – Another list of sins, including sexual immorality, theft, and greed, followed by the hope of redemption: “And that is what some of you were.”
- Exodus 20:16 – “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor,” pointing to lying and perjury.
- Deuteronomy 24:7 – God’s law condemned kidnapping, which connects to the idea of slave trading.
- 2 Timothy 4:3 – Paul warns that people will turn away from sound doctrine to hear what they want instead.
These verses reinforce that God’s Word consistently calls sin what it is-but also points toward the possibility of redemption through grace.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that we live in a world that normalizes many things God calls sinful. It also reminds us that truth doesn’t change with time. As Christians, we are called to love others and speak truth-not to judge harshly, but to point people to what is good and right.
It also means that we can’t water down Scripture just because something is uncomfortable. The Bible calls us to a higher standard-not because God wants to make life harder, but because He wants to make our lives whole.
And just as important: no matter what sin a person has committed, the gospel offers forgiveness. We should be bold in truth and gentle in love, always remembering that God’s kindness leads people to repentance.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God tells the truth. He doesn’t leave people in the dark. He gives clear standards for living-not to crush us, but to protect and redeem us. When God names sin, He’s not being harsh-He’s being honest, like a doctor who diagnoses a deadly illness so the right cure can be applied.
This verse, though strong, flows from the heart of a God who wants people to turn from sin and be healed by His mercy.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus didn’t ignore sin-He confronted it with truth and love. He said to the woman caught in adultery, “Go now and leave your life of sin” (John 8:11). He welcomed sinners, but He didn’t leave them where they were.
On the cross, Jesus paid the price for every sin in this verse. 1 Peter 2:24 says, “He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness.”
Jesus is the only one who lived in perfect agreement with sound doctrine. He fulfilled the law, and now He invites all who are guilty-including every name on Paul’s list-to come, repent, and be made new.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Paul included this list of sins while talking about sound doctrine?
- Which of these sins are often overlooked or accepted in today’s culture?
- How can we respond with both truth and compassion when talking about sin with others?
- In what ways do you personally need to come into alignment with God’s truth?
- How does knowing Jesus died for all sin, even the worst kinds, affect how you see yourself and others?