It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.
Observation
Even though 1 Timothy is written some 20 years after Paul's conversion to Christ it is clear that Paul understands what direction he was heading when Christ rescued him. Paul was hunting Christians. Moreover, Paul was a party to Stephens stoning.
Paul was relentless in his pursuit of Christians, until he had a "come to Jesus" moment. In that moment, his eyes were enlightened to a different calling on his life, he was convicted of the pain he was inflicting, and was forever changed. Now he uses his old nature as an example of God's incredible grace.
Application
There are times when I feel like the worst sinner of all. Unlike Paul, however, it is not something I boast about, but instead being the worse sinner of all brings with it feelings of shame. This condemnation is not of Christ.
Paul, has a healthy view of who he is, because his view is seasoned with the grace of Christ. He knows where he was heading and celebrates that Christ can save those who are going in the worst possible direction. He not only celebrates it, but uses it as an example to to encourage others.
This is probably one of my favorite bible verses, because it teaches me the difference between conviction and condemnation.
Prayer
Father, I am the worst sinner of all. I am proof of Your incredible grace, mercy, and love. I want to, like Paul, spend the rest of my days telling the world how You save even the messiest of sinners.
No comments:
Post a Comment