1 Timothy 4:1–5 as a neglected eschatological passage
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: In 1 Timothy 4:1, the Spirit explicitly states that in later times some will devote themselves to the teachings of demons. While acknowledging the future implications of these doctrines, most commentators focus on their historical origins. To demonstrate that 1 Timothy 4:1–5 is an overlooked eschatological passage, this article examined the expression ‘later times’ (1 Tm 4:1), reconsidered the content of these demonic teachings (1 Tm 4:3a), and linked the passage (1 Tm 4:3b–5) to the Noahic covenant – and subsequently to end-time texts. It is argued that 1 Timothy 4:1–5 should be recognised as an eschatological passage that has often been neglected. The ‘later times’ (1 Tm 4:1) of the church age could serve as the backdrop for prophecies destined for fulfilment during the Tribulation Period. Contribution: The fallen world may well be prepared for the ‘end game’ (1 Tm 3:16; 6:15) of the later times of the church age – even the Tribulation Period – but nothing can thwart the plan of God in Christ (1 Tm 1:4), for the true Sovereign and great mystery of godliness will return (1 Tm 3:16; 6:15).
Source: In die Skriflig/In Luce Verbi
Author: Jacob Scholtz
Language: English
Subfield: Religious studies
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $715
OpenAlex ID: W4411434917