A note from our Pastor:

“Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.”

1 Timothy 1:7

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

The Apostle Paul has previously noted how false teachers were among the church at Ephesus. Their desire to drift off into fables and extra-doctrinal teachings was leading the church at Ephesus into a dangerous path. In our study verse this week, the Apostle provides more information regarding the nature of these pastors and teachers and the false doctrine they were bringing.

First, the Apostle says these men desired to be “teachers of the law”. This law was the law of Moses or the Old Testament Jewish law. Among the Jews, there was great respect for the rabbis who could explain this law. Thus, these pastors and teachers at Ephesus in desiring the respect of the conversed Jews were trying to prove themselves as experts in the law of the Old Testament.

It is important to remember, as the Apostle will say in another letter, the Old Testament is the inspired word of God and it is profitable for the children of God. However, in the New Testament church it is profitable to explain and affirm the New Testament and the gospel of Jesus Christ. If, at any point, a church or minister becomes dependent on the Old Testament to support the principles being taught then concern over the soundness of the church should be expressed.

Now back to those at Ephesus. The Apostle is going to further explain his concern which Timothy needs to address. Not only are these pastors and teachers attempting to bring the Old Testament law into a New Testament church, but they are doing so without knowledge. These pastors and teachers did not have a real knowledge of the truth of the law. Rather, they were taking the man made interpretations of the law, with all of the burdens those interpretations create, and hefting this weight upon New Testament believers.

Furthermore, because they did not have a real understanding of the truth of the law, when they were asked questions about the law or about the application of the law they were affirming actions and requirements without any real knowledge. As a result, the church goers at Ephesus were listening to men who proclaimed to have an understanding of the things of God but were in fact being loaded down with the weight of the things of men.

As disciples today, with access in so many forms to the bible, it is vital to check the teachings coming from pastors and teachers against what scriptures actually say.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah