2-13-13 // 1 Timothy 1:12-17
///Uncover
Date: 63-66
Author: Paul
Audience: Written to Timothy.
Action: Written in regards to the principles of Pastoral care for Churches and qualified ministers.
(vs.12) I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service.
– Jesus considered Paul faithful, regardless of His past.
– Jesus sees the potential when we only see our pasts.
– Jesus saw Paul’s future faithfulness, ignoring his past mistakes.
(vs.13) Even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief;
– Paul admits his past, but gives Christ the glory in his redemption and recovery into ministry.
– Paul gives Christ the glory in the re-writing of his story.
– Paul uses the word “formerly” as a description to show his NEW life in Christ.
(vs.14) The grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus.
– Paul states that the grace of Jesus was more abundant than his past.
– Paul states that Jesus’ grace is more abundant than anyones past or mishaps.
(vs.15) It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am the foremost of all.
– Paul preaches the Grace and Truth of Jesus’ arrival as a man – To save sinners, among whom Paul admits to be the worst of all.
– Paul is preaching the Gospel of Grace, Redemption, Hope, and Mercy.
– Paul is leading from his strengths in Christ, but humble enough to share his past as a sinner. (we must do the same)
(vs.16) Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.
– Paul states that Jesus used him as a demonstration for how abundant and powerful his grace, mercy, and patience is for those who believe in Him. (His Children)
(vs.17) Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
– Paul describes some of the attributes of our Savior: Immortal, Invisible, THE ONLY GOD.
– For Paul to instruct Timothy to preach these statements was not only bold, but dangerous amidst the Jewish community.
///Relate (How does this text relate to my current life situations?)
– Paul is instructing Timothy on the basic principles of Pastoral care, and what it means to be a Christ follower.
– Truly understand and accepting the patience, grace, mercy, and power of Christ is an immeasurable attribute to my relationship with Christ.
– Through Paul’s testimony, I know that Jesus can use ALL people regardless of their pasts.
– Jesus’ love is more focused on the potential of my future than he is the mistakes of my past.
– My ministry, leadership, and relationships must be lived as an example of Jesus’ undying love and grace for us.
///Apply (How can I apply these teachings to my life?)
– I must always live as an example of Jesus’ love, grace, mercy, and patience.
– I must preach, lead, and teach as if Jesus himself is speaking through me.
– I must never allow my past to dictate my future. Why? Because it has already been forgiven.
– I must trust in the promise of Christ, knowing that his power is greater than anything I will encounter.
– I must be bold and honest when it comes to the TRUTH of The Gospel. (Like Paul instructs Timothy)
– I must ALWAYS desire to see the lost saved, in hopes that they will find redemption and salvation in Jesus.
///Prayer
God, I pray for your wisdom and guidance in my life. Do not allow my flesh to desire the “things” of this world, but instead yearn for your goodness and grace in all things. I believe in your power, your word, and your spirit. Teach me to be more like you, and allow me to help you bring change to a world that seeks darkness.
– Jarrid Wilson
