By rejecting this, some have made shipwreck of their faith, among whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme. 1 Timothy 1:19b-20
John Piper has posted a new video lab of 1 Timothy 1:18-20 (Part 3) on DesiringGod.com, so I resume my study of this book. Excerpts from this video:
- Note the connection of faith and a good conscience, and if you reject one you reject both; further exploring the connection of conscience and faith, Piper shares that if we reject a good conscience, we are thereby rejecting things that are good for us.
- Paul seeks to fix Hymenaeus and Alexander by teaching them not to blaspheme; see also 1 Timothy 1:10-11 where Paul discusses how the law is being misused and not used for healthy teaching which "accords with the gospel of the glory of the blessed God." Faith is wrecked by rejecting healthy teaching as described. You are also blaspheming - essentially saying that the Good News is not good.
- Paul's remedy is to hand over Hymenaeus and Alexander to Satan which is discussed in the forthcoming part 4 lab video on this text; in the meantime, pursue both a faith and a conscience that aligns with the gospel as Good News.
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, the Good News is good indeed! All of what comes from You is good, true, and perfect. Thank You for my salvation and for the blessings You pour out for me. I am not deserving of such blessings nor my salvation. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
