1 Timothy 1:12–15 (ESV) — 12 I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus
our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service, 13 though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent.
But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, 14 and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love
that are in Christ Jesus. 15 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.
NOTE: Paul's use of
the term "insolent opponent," also translated as a "violent
man" in the NIV84 captures my attention. The word actually denotes his
pride. He was incredibly prideful and apparently good with words so that he
would heap insults and difficult arguments upon others in his quest to destroy
their faith. I'm sure he felt the full shame of that knowledge after he came to know Jesus in such a miraculous way.
He was ignorant -- aren't we all? -- but God demonstrated mercy and grace to
Paul. None of us deserve the opportunities that we have. We are all sinners
saved by grace. None of us are needed by God. None of us are untouched by sin.
None of us are worthy. Jesus came to save sinners and for some strange reason
or seeming accident, he saved me too. Move over Paul, you are not the only one
who shouldn't be in the family.
PRAYER: Father,
thank you for your salvation and for including me in you plan. I am not worthy
to be called your son. Thank you so much for this incredible gift!
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