The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:15-16
I continue with my study of 1 and 2 Timothy using DesiringGod.com's Look at the Book video series - picking up with 1 Timothy 1:12-16, Part 4 with the video entitled Why Did God Allow Paul to Become a Persecutor? The focus of this video is vv15-16.
Excerpts from the video:
- We should trust that Jesus came into the world to save sinners - saved from condemnation and the wrath of God; see also John 3:17-36, Titus 3:7 (guilty unless justified), 2 Timothy 4:8 (salvation instead of losing access to God's Kingdom), 2 Timothy 2:10 (salvation instead of loss of glory), 2 Timothy 1:10
- Paul received mercy so that others can see (including throughout redemptive history) the dramatic turnabout in his life, have no question that this is a Godly or supernatural act, and also receive mercy; note how Paul describes himself as the "foremost" of sinners
- Paul is allowed to become a persecutor (even though God set Paul apart before he was born - see also Galatians 1:15) then saved so that no one would despair of being saved given this dramatic turnabout
- John Piper shares how this text should give hope to those whose sin leaves them in so much despair so as to believe they are beyond salvation; even Paul as being the foremost of sinners is saved - so can You!
Surrender and believe as Jesus saves!
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace for me, giving me hope during times of despair. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of the hope You give me. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
