1 Timothy 1:4

Fables. Gr. muthoi, “myths,” “inventions,” “falsehoods.” Paul may here refer to the rabbinical fictions such as were later incorporated into the Mishnah and other Jewish writings (see Vol. V, pp. 96-100). However, he may also be warning against an early form of Gnosticism (see Vol. V, p. 181; Vol. VI, pp. 54-58).

Genealogies. Probably a reference to a Jewish practice in which an attempt was made to trace family ancestries back to a Davidic or priestly heritage. Much of Jewish teaching and preaching was based on finely spun allegories that pleased the fancies of the people without feeding their souls. See Titus 1:14.

Minister. Or, “cause,” or “bring about.”

Questions. Gr. ekzeteseis, “investigations,” “speculations.”

Edifying. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the reading “stewardship.” Accordingly, the last clause of this verse may read: “which engender mere speculation rather than the stewardship of God, which is [accomplished] in faith.” Mere disputation, which satisfies profitless curiosity only, will never promote the growth of the church.