1 Timothy 1:8 – “We know that the law is good if one uses it properly.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this short but powerful verse, Paul shifts gears. After calling out people who were misusing the law and teaching things they didn’t understand, he now makes something clear: the law itself isn’t the problem. The law is good-but only when it’s used the right way.
God’s law was never meant to be a tool for self-righteousness, empty debate, or spiritual pride. It was meant to reveal what’s right, expose what’s wrong, and point people toward their need for a Savior. When people take the law and twist it to make themselves look holy or to control others, they misuse it. But when the law is understood in light of God’s truth and grace, it serves a beautiful and helpful purpose.
Historical Context
Many early Christians-especially those with Jewish backgrounds-struggled to understand how the Old Testament law fit into the gospel. Some wanted to return to rules and rituals as the foundation of their faith. Others tried to blend the gospel with the law, creating confusion and false teaching.
Paul had faced this in other churches too (like in Galatia), and he wanted Timothy to make sure the believers in Ephesus didn’t fall into the same trap. The law was not something to ignore, but neither was it to be worshipped or used as a way to earn God’s favor.
Paul had deep respect for the law because he knew it came from God. But he also knew it had a specific purpose in God’s plan-and it had to be handled with care.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that God’s law is part of His good and holy design. It reflects His character and shows us what righteousness looks like. However, the law isn’t the source of salvation. It reveals sin but doesn’t remove it.
Paul affirms that truth matters, and so does how we use truth. The law is not a weapon for pride or judgment. It’s not a checklist to impress God. It’s a mirror that shows our need for grace. Used properly, the law leads us to repentance and points us to Jesus.
It also reminds us that God’s Word must be handled rightly. Even something good can be harmful if misused or misunderstood.
Literary Analysis
Paul’s phrasing here is deliberate. He starts with a firm statement: “We know.” This shows confidence and agreement among faithful believers. Then he adds balance: the law is “good”-if it’s used properly. That little word “if” holds all the weight. It introduces a condition that matters deeply.
This kind of sentence structure (positive statement + qualifying clause) is typical of Paul when he’s addressing potential misunderstandings. He doesn’t throw out the law-he corrects the misuse of it, which ties back to the false teachers he mentioned in the previous verses.
Biblical Cross-References
- Romans 7:12 – “So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous and good.”
- Galatians 3:24 – “So the law was our guardian until Christ came that we might be justified by faith.”
- Romans 3:20 – “Through the law we become conscious of our sin.”
- Psalm 19:7 – “The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul.”
These verses affirm that the law is not the problem-our hearts are. When we use the law for its intended purpose, it leads us to truth, conviction, and ultimately to Christ.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
Many Christians today wonder what to do with the Old Testament law. Are we still under it? Should we follow all its rules? This verse helps clarify the issue. The law is still good-it reflects God’s standards and shows us His heart for holiness, justice, and mercy.
But we’re not saved by keeping the law. We’re saved by grace through faith in Jesus. The law can’t make us right with God, but it shows us that we need to be made right-and that’s where Jesus comes in.
For today’s Christian, this verse calls us to respect God’s truth and to handle it wisely. We’re not called to ignore the law or become legalistic about it, but to understand its role and allow it to shape our understanding of sin, grace, and righteousness.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God gave the law not to burden us but to bless us. His commands are for our good, to show us how to live in a way that honors Him and brings life. A loving God doesn’t leave us guessing-He gives us standards, guidance, and clear boundaries.
And when we fall short, which we all do, He doesn’t leave us condemned. He uses the law to show us our need and then points us to His mercy and grace in Christ. That’s the love of a perfect Father-not just telling us the truth, but making a way for us to be made new.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Himself said He didn’t come to abolish the law, but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). He lived a perfect life under the law, obeying it fully-something no one else could do. Then He took the penalty for our failure on the cross, satisfying justice and offering us grace.
In Romans 10:4, Paul writes, “Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.” Jesus is the goal the law points to. The law shows us what we can’t do on our own. Jesus shows us what He has done for us.
When we understand the law properly, it leads us straight to the cross-and from there, into a life of grateful obedience.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How have you seen God’s law used properly-or misused-in your own experience?
- Why is it important to understand the purpose of the law in light of the gospel?
- How does the law reveal our need for Jesus?
- Are there ways you’ve tried to use God’s commands to earn His approval instead of relying on His grace?
- How can you grow in handling God’s truth with both respect and understanding?