1 Timothy 4:2

Hypocrisy. Or, “pretense,” “outward show.” Teachers of deception (v. 1) may pretend loyalty to truth while they spread their “doctrines of devils” (v. 1). Apostates often do not sail openly under the flag of error and treason to the cause of Christ. The teachers of deception trumpet loudly their loyalty to the cause of truth, thus better to delude men.

Their conscience. Literally, “their own conscience.” The deceptions that are misleading others in the church are, at the same time, making the deceivers insensitive to truth.

Seared with a hot iron. Or, “branded with a branding iron.” Some hold that this refers to the insensibility of a conscience that is no longer aware of guilt at wrongdoing in somewhat the same way that searing by a hot iron renders human flesh incapable of feeling, so that it becomes progressively difficult for the Holy Spirit to make any impression on the conscience. Compare the course of Judas, who finally ignored every appeal to his soul (see Luke 22:3; John 6:70; 13:27). Others believe that as a branding iron leaves its mark, so the “doctrines of devils” (1 Timothy 4:1) and hypocritical “lies” (v. 2) make the satanic brand an indelible mark. Hence, as Paul possessed the “marks” of his service to Christ (Galatians 6:17), so these deceivers will bear corresponding marks of loyalty to Satan.

Forbidding to marry. Paul here warns against fanatical concepts that were first introduced into Christianity by the Gnostics (see Vol. VI, pp. 54-58) and perpetuated by the monastic system. The Gnostics believed that all matter was evil, and that the human body, being material, must have its passions repressed and denied. According to this theory, marriage became a concession to the lusts of the flesh, and was therefore sinful. Paul makes clear that marriage is a God-given institution and that to attack this institution would be to assail the infinite wisdom and beneficent purposes of God (see on 1 Corinthians 7:1; Hebrews 13:4).

Meats. Gr. bromata, “food” (see on Mark 7:19). For a discussion of Paul’s position concerning the relationship between food and Christian living see on Romans 14:1. Paul here refers to ascetic influences and tendencies that penetrated the church. For ceremonial, ritualistic reasons these ascetics considered the total prohibition of certain foods to be spiritually desirable. The prohibition of certain foods on particular religious days may also be included in the apostle’s warning.

Which. Some believe that this refers back to “meats” only, whereas others urge that marriage is also to be included.

Created. Both food and marriage were part of God’s original plan for man in Eden.

To be received. Literally, “for participation.” The institution of marriage and the foods specified for man to eat (see on Genesis 1:29; see Additional Note on Leviticus 11) are part of God’s plan for the proper development of man. He who created man knows best what activities he should participate in so as to attain a balanced, happy life. For man to deny himself the privileges of marriage and food necessary for proper health would be to question and defy the wisdom and will of God.

Thanksgiving. Men are not only to accept God’s directions for living, but to rejoice in His concern for them and to register their gratitude in a life of praise and thanksgiving (see on 1 Corinthians 10:30, 31).

Which believe and know. Literally, “by the faithful, even those knowing folly [that is, who have an experimental understanding of].” God’s plans for man are understood best by those who have committed their will to Him and put those plans into practice (see John 7:17). Those who know by experience the unfailing love and concern of God will be the first to vindicate His wisdom as it extends to every facet of their lives. Only those who have fully realized this wisdom will be able to give genuine “thanksgiving.”

Truth. That is, the revealed will of God as contained in the Scriptures (see chapter 3:15; see on chapter 2:4).