1 Timothy 1:16 – Paul as pattern

But therefore was I shown mercy, that in me, the foremost, Jesus Christ should be displaying all His patience, for a pattern of those who are about to be believing on Him for life eonian.

The reason Paul was shown mercy was so that he would be a pattern of all who would put their trust in Jesus Christ. As an extremist, Paul railed against “the ecclesia of God” and that made him the “foremost of sinners” in his day. But precisely because he took first place as a sinner, he also qualified first for Jesus Christ, to demonstrate His grace, mercy and patience.

Paul was destined by Jesus Christ to be a pattern. A model and standard of grace, in which nothing is expected of man. Enmity and unbelief do not prevent us from receiving grace. Because Paul’s calling proves: God’s grace overrules every opposition! Paul is the example of grace that surpasses all sin and all unbelief! Paul’s calling is a proof and a demonstration of “the grace of God” that he was allowed to herald. God even saves sinners who are hostile to Him and do not want to know anything about His Son. And so… there is hope for every sinner, unconditionally!

Delen: