1 Timothy 1:14 – Overwhelming with faith and love

But I was shown mercy, seeing that I do it being ignorant, in unbelief. Yet the grace of our Lord overwhelms, with faith and love in Christ Jesus.

Paul was overwhelmed by the grace of his Lord. Every question and doubt disappeared completely in one moment. Not because Paul was pressured or forced to repent. Coercion is the exercise of power to make someone do something against their will. Coercion is an extreme tool of power, but also proof of the inability to get someone to do something voluntarily. Those who are able to reach hearts need no coercion at all. Behold the GOD of the Bible. He inclines men’s hearts, even the king’s (Prov.21:1) and He heals backsliding (Hos.14:4). He opens hearts when He pleases (Acts 16:14). Without crowbar.

Paul was overwhelmed by the grace of our Lord “with faith and love.” This confirms exactly what we established above: the Lord does not overwhelm outwardly but with an inwardly transforming power. With His overwhelming grace He also gives faith and love. Because His grace overwhelms and convinces. No enmity can match that! His love melts even the coldest heart.

Delen: