September 23, 2021 – 1 Timothy 1-6

Paul’s is an amazing testimony: “I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service, though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. But I received mercy” (1:12,13). And: “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” (1:15). This is the man who is now counseling Timothy and the churches on prayer, proper relationships, leaders and servants in the church, and is encouraging the churches during a time in which they face opposition and, especially, false teaching.

An amazing testimony about God's power and grace, which can take even a man like Paul and make him a minister of the gospel. Surely, Paul could look back over his life, as can we ours, and with amazement and thankfulness, sing the following words. Oh, wait! The words of the refrain ARE his words!

I know not why God’s wondrous grace

to me is daily shown,

nor why, with mercy, Christ in love

redeemed me for his own.

But “I know whom I have believed,

and am persuaded that he is able

to keep that which I’ve committed

unto him against that day.” -- D. W. Whittle (1883)