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1 Timothy 1:13 – Heart, Mouth, Fists
We are often our most arrogant when defending our own humility. What made me think of that little thought are the various translations of 1 Timothy 1:13. The NASB reads, “violent aggressor” which suggests at least in my mind, physical and bodily force. However the HCSB and ESV read quite differently: arrogant man (HCSB) and insolent opponent (ESV). The latter suggests verbal insults while the former the pride that produces such an argumentative attitude.
Whichever translation is the best, there is a lesson of progression – or digression – for us all which is taught throughout the Bible. The heart moves the mouth and then the fists or other body parts.
- Heart – “arrogant man” (HCSB)
- Mouth – “insolent opponent” (ESV)
- Fists – “violent aggressor” (NASB)
And yet how often does the mind excuse such aberrant behavior in all three stages? How often is one’s innocence retained that these actions are defensible based upon the pride or aggravations caused by others?
Before we can change our behaviors, we need to change our speech. Before we can change our speech, we need to change our hearts. Trust me; I am not the first to suggest this – check out the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). Humility incarnated taught us to first guard our hearts.
Matthew 5:8 HCSB Blessed are the pure in heart, because they will see God.
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