Lesson 236: 1 Timothy 1:15
1 Timothy 1:15
The Blueprint — The Verse
Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
Memorization Practice
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The Context — The History
Paul writes 1 Timothy to guide church order in Ephesus amid false teaching. The trustworthy saying summarizes the gospel Paul embodies as former blasphemer now displaying God's patience.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
Paul urges Timothy to wage good warfare holding faith and good conscience. He cites the trustworthy saying that Christ came to save sinners, naming himself worst.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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1 Timothy 1:14
14The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
Read the verse immediately before this lesson (1 Timothy 1:14) to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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1 Timothy 1:16
16But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.
Read the verse immediately after this lesson (1 Timothy 1:16) to continue the passage.
Discussion
- Why does Paul call himself the worst sinner?
- How does this saying anchor gospel ministry?
- Who needs to hear that Christ came to save sinners like them?