1 Timothy 1:9
Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,
1 Timothy 1:9 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse you are referring to is found in 1 Timothy 1:9, where it discusses the purpose of the law. In this verse, it explains that the law is not intended for those who are already righteous, but rather for those who are lawless and disobedient. The law serves as a guide for the ungodly, sinners, the unholy, and the profane, to show them the error of their ways and lead them towards righteousness. It also highlights specific examples of those who need the law, such as murderers of fathers and mothers, and manslayers.
Essentially, this verse emphasizes that the law is a tool to bring about conviction and correction for those who are living in sin and disobedience. It serves as a standard by which individuals can measure their behavior and actions, guiding them towards a life that is pleasing to God. By acknowledging the purpose of the law and recognizing that it is meant for those who are in need of guidance and correction, individuals can strive towards a life of righteousness and obedience to God's commandments.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the purpose of the law in relation to different categories of individuals. It emphasizes that the law is not meant for those who are already righteous, as they adhere to moral and ethical principles naturally. Instead, the law serves as a guide and correction for those who act lawlessly, disobediently, ungodly, sinful, unholy, profane, and engage in violent acts such as murder. By outlining these behaviors, the verse underscores the need for law and order in society to hold individuals accountable for their actions and uphold justice. Through word studies, the specific descriptions of individuals targeted by the law provide insight into the gravity of their transgressions and the importance of enforcing moral standards. This verse serves as a reminder of the role of the law in addressing wrongdoing and promoting righteousness among individuals, ultimately leading to a more just and harmonious society.
1 Timothy 1:9 in other translations
American Standard Version
as knowing this, that law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and unruly, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,
World English Bible
as knowing this, that law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and insubordinate, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for man slayers,
Douay-Rheims
Knowing this: That the law is not made for the just man but for the unjust and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for the wicked and defiled, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,
Geneva Bible (1599)
Knowing this, that the Lawe is not giuen vnto a righteous man, but vnto the lawles and disobedient, to the vngodly, and to sinners, to the vnholy, and to the prophane, to murtherers of fathers and mothers, to manslayers,