Example of God’s Patience. 1 Timothy 1:15-17.
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. But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honour and glory forever and ever. Amen.
Dear Holy Nation,
Paul continues his testimony of God’s goodness to him despite his earlier opposition to the gospel and now declares that there was a purpose to God’s saving work in him.
Deserving Statement (v. 15). Paul introduces a phrase here that is unique to the Pastoral Epistles: “The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance.” It is a special emphasis on something he feels is really important. That statement is that Christ came to save sinners, of whom Paul is chief. While we may not take Paul to mean that he was the worst sinner who ever lived, he may well have felt that way himself. A person who truly understands the holiness of God will see himself as the worst sinner there ever was. Until we appreciate how gravely our sin offends the holiness of God, we will not understand the value of what Christ has done for us.
Display for Salvation (v. 16). Paul declares that the mercy God showed by saving him was a demonstration of patience. That no matter how resistant and unyielding a person may be, God “is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). This sentiment is also expressed here (2:4). God does not give up on sinners because he desires their salvation. We should have the mind of God and persist in prayer for and witness to the unbelieving, in the hope that they will repent and believe.
Doxology to the Saviour (v. 17). That Paul breaks out in praise to God can be expected. In the context of this passage, Paul does not distinguish between Jesus Christ and God, which should surprise no one. That Paul believes Jesus to be truly God is not in doubt. In his praise, Paul describes God as “the King of the ages,” a reference to his everlastingness, “immortal, invisible” and “the only God.” It must be understood that there are no alternatives to the God we worship. All others are false.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.