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1 Timothy 1:13 – What Was Paul Like Before Being Saved?
What was Paul before being saved? The NASB says, “violent aggressor” (1 Tim.1:13). That is a possible translation, but somewhat repetitive since Paul already confessed to being a persecutor. The HCSB reads, “an arrogant man” which is also possible since the Greek is hubizo (think hubris in English), but seems to focus on the damage done to self instead of to others, the cause and not the effect. The old Young’s Literal Translation might be spot on – “insulting.” Notice the HELPS Word Studies – “properly, someone “damaging” others by lashing out with a nasty spirit. This kind of individual is insolent (delights in wrong-doing) – finding pleasure in hurting others (G. R. Berry).” Arrogance leads to insulting. Being saved should change our attitude for the better, unless we consider being saved more of a gnostic salvation than spiritual. If we keep growing in knowledge and look down on those still growing, if we claim to have a closer relationship with God than before, then how can we find pleasure in insulting those who disagree with us, whether they are still in the world or working on being like Christ?
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