Oh how I love this short testimony from the Apostle Paul. It speaks of the confidence and humility that ought to characterize ministers of the Gospel. Truth and grace are both continually evident in their words, actions, and in all of their lives – because they too need the gospel. Truth and grace must together shine in him.
“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. 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.” – 1 Timothy 1:15-16
Paul is convinced beyond all doubt that Jesus saves sinners, even the greatest of sinners. Why? Because Paul, the foremost sinner, has received mercy. Therefore, no one has sinned too much to be forgiven by the grace of God. Notice the great humility of Paul – he is the foremost sinner! Ministers ought to get the gospel like this and walk in all humility before ‘lesser’ sinners.
I sometimes tell sin-shamed people when I begin to counsel them that I am the greatest sinner in the room. That is not a technique, it is the truth. I need the grace that I am ministering to others. In fact, Paul Tripp says, “Your desire and enthusiasm to minister God’s grace to others is directly related to how much you think you need that same grace yourself.” Once you have been to the well of grace and tasted its sweet refreshment, you can draw water for others – and are eager to do so.
Christians are healed by the grace that they offer to others. But notice also this. Paul, as the foremost sinner, is an encouragement to all other sinners to come and find rest and peace in Jesus Christ. Why? Because he was the foremost sinner! He is an example to all who would draw from the wells of salvation – God will receive you, accept you, cleanse you. It is all of grace, and it is free even to the worst of sinners.
What a comforting message! And it is a message that you can believe because it is true. And it is easier to believe when this grace is ministered to you by broken hands now healed by the same gospel message.
Come, I have found the Messiah! The one with perfect patience. Let me introduce you to the fountain of grace and divine favor. He will not turn you away.