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1 Timothy 1:12-16

King James Version (KJV)

“In our prayers we talk to God, in our Bible study God talks to us, and we had better let God do most of the talking.”
— D.L. Moody

Scripture focus

12. And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; 13. Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did [it] ignorantly in unbelief. 14. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. 15. This [is] a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. 16. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

1 Timothy 1:12-16 — KJV

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Timothy 1:12

Theological / Devotional

Thank. That is, for the honor of being entrusted with the gospel (v. 11). Verses 12-16 reveal Paul’s humble evaluation of his own insufficiencies. However, when he used the law “lawfully” (v. 8) he became a new man and a living witness to the saving power of God. Consequently, what God could do with him, the “chief” of sinners (v. 15), He could also do for any other man.

Enabled. Gr. endunamod, “to empower.” Paul depended on no merit of his own in carrying out the divine charge. Every pastor can claim the resources of divine power when the problems of the ministry confront him.

Faithful. That is, worthy of being trusted. Paul’s warm heart fills with gratitude when he considers the honor of being trusted by God. The response of a sincere man is to leave nothing undone in vindicating this confidence of God in him.

Ministry. Or, “service.”

By SdaBc