But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 1:13b-14
I return to my study of 1 and 2 Timothy, using DesiringGod.com's Look at the Book video series for these books. Today, I look at 1 Timothy 1:12-16, Part 2. Excerpts from the video entitled Do Ignorance and Unbelief Deserve Mercy?:
- Here, Piper zeroes in on how despite Paul "acted ignorantly in unbelief" he received mercy and Piper examines why this is and he states unequivocally up front that this mercy hinges on v16 where Christ's perfect patience is on display.
- Piper then seeks to challenge those who might read v13b and think Paul is saying that he received mercy because of his ignorance and unbelief which then might lead some to believe that this ignorance and unbelief causes or makes Paul more deserving of mercy....Piper points to Matthew 13:58 (unbelief does not cause mercy but instead cuts you off from mercy), Romans 11:19-20 (Jews were cut off from Christ because of their unbelief), Romans 2:4-5 (ignorance, hardness of heart stores up wrath), and Romans 10:1-3 (ignorance does not lessen guilt)
- Piper then shares how a more appropriate reading (based on Paul's intent) is that Paul received mercy because that is what he needed not because he deserved it
- We ALL need God's mercy!
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for me as You saved me and You continue to pour out Your mercy for me every single day...thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such grace and mercy. My sin 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.
