Reflection
(1Ti 1:12 ESV) I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service,
(1Ti 1:13 ESV) though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief,
(1Ti 1:14 ESV) and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
(1Ti 1:15 ESV) 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.
(1Ti 1:16 ESV) 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.
(1Ti 1:17 ESV) To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.
Discussion
Thinking of Paul’s life before he encountered Jesus, he was not what we might call a supporter of the Christian church. He chased, arrested, and murdered _____________. From this _____________ saved him, forgave him, and called him to a life opposite all he had ever known. In this we see the humbleness of _____________ and greatness of God. That He would have the power to redeem man and willing to save a man such as Paul gives us great hope in our own salvation in _____________.
Considering our inclination to sin and disobey God, we can find joy and peace in remembering that He knows all things, yet still desires to save us and call us His own. Let that sink in.
Connection
What does the nature of God’s saving grace say about who He is?
Can you say your life is different today that is was before encountering Jesus?
How can you describe your life before becoming a disciple of Christ?
How would you describe your life today?
The difference in these two descriptions are a measure of your connectedness to God. Spend some time in prayer about where you find yourself in Christ today asking Him to shape your heart to His will.
Expansion
Salvation
Romans 8:27-30, Ephesians 1:3-14, Ephesians 2:1-10, 2 Timothy 1:8-9, John 1:12-13, Romans 6:16-18, Romans 9:10-24, John 6:43-45, Romans 10:10-21, 2 Peter 3:9, John 12:32, Romans 14:10-12
The Kept: God Will Preserve Us Until The End
John 10:28-29, 1 John 2:19-20, Romans 5:9-10, Romans 8:30, Romans 9:10-16