1 Timothy 1:5

Authorized King James Version

Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:

Word-by-Word Analysis

τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ

G1161

Now

but, and, etc

τέλος

G5056

the end

properly, the point aimed at as a limit, i.e., (by implication) the conclusion of an act or state (termination (literally, figuratively or indefinitel

τῆς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

παραγγελίας

G3852

of the commandment

a mandate

ἐστὶν

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

ἀγάπη

G26

charity

love, i.e., affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast

ἐκ

G1537

out of

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

καθαρᾶς

G2513

a pure

clean (literally or figuratively)

#10

καρδίας

G2588

heart

the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle

#11

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#12

συνειδήσεως

G4893

conscience

co-perception, i.e., moral consciousness

#13

ἀγαθῆς

G18

of a good

"good" (in any sense, often as noun)

#14

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#15

πίστεως

G4102

of faith

persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ

#16

ἀνυποκρίτου

G505

unfeigned

undissembled, i.e., sincere

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Timothy, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of faith connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about faith, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to 1 Timothy's theological argument.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of faith differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on faith address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?