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September | September 29, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
The challenge Paul gave Timothy in the opening verses of 1st Timothy to deal with false teachers in the church at Ephesus was significant. Paul knew young Timothy might think the challenge overwhelming so he shared his testimony of God’s grace as an incentive. If God could reach down and turn him around, a former blasphemer, persecutor and violent man, He could do through Timothy what Paul urged him to do.
Listen to his poignant words in verses 12-17: “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.”
Paul gave his testimony in many different places and settings. Sometimes it was longer, at other times brief and to the point. The main points remained the same but the emphasis differed. I’d like to look into his testimony further in our next visit so read and reflect on it in preparation.
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