Thanks for watching again, hope this bible study brings you something.

Transcript:

1 Timothy 1:15, “Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners -- of whom I am the worst.”

Interesting points:
1. In this verse, Paul uses a literary device limited to his two letters to Timothy and letter to Titus (the Pastoral Epistles/Letters). Paul highlights a point he wants his reader to remember by saying, “Here is a trustworthy saying…”. In this verse, the device reinforces the idea of the previous verse concerning the grace, love and peace we receive from God: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” plus the assertion, “of whom I am the worst.”

2. Paul’s statement combines an essential tenet of Christianity -- that Jesus’ only purpose of becoming a man was to save sinners -- with the startling statement that he is the worst of those sinners. This claim to be the worst of sinners is not a revelation intended to shock but a reminder to a beloved and entrusted protégé (and younger pastor) that without God’s grace and faith and in Christ, he would be nothing of significance, and most certainly not a mentor, leader or in a position to offer spiritual advice.

3. Paul’s words remind us of our identity in Christ. Pastors, Church and ministry leaders serve God’s flock and at His pleasure. The words “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners -- of whom I am the worst” ground us in our faith and keep us humble and obedient to His direction and guidance. Shepherds cannot effectively care for God’s flock if they are looking down on and speaking condescendingly to them. Instead, in fully remembering they, too, are flawed, they will seek God’s wisdom and discernment in ministry.

Application.
Brothers, what a great reminder that when we are faced with a broken-spirited sinner that (a) we too were once in his/her shoes and that (b) without God’s intervention and our decision to accept Christ we would still be there! When we remember that we are the “worst of sinners”, we can better testify of Jesus’ redemptive and awesome power to revive, transform, and reconcile us to our righteous and holy Father.

Similarly, may Paul’s words to Timothy that, “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners -- of whom I am the worst” become our own so that we remain humble, focused and ready to communicate the truth about Christ’s redemptive power to those that don’t know Him.