October 27, 2022
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.
17 Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
18 This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare;
19 Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck:
20 Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.
Verses 13, 14, and 15. Read them again; go ahead, I’ll wait.
At some point in our lives, we were all like St. Paul (v13).
We live now as Christians because of God’s good grace and the work of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. (v14)
The 1928 Book of Common Prayer refers to this in this way; ‘The comfortable words’: “Hear also what Saint Paul saith. This is a true saying and worthy of all men to be received, That Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” (pg 76 in Holy Communion) (v15)
Magnitude and simplicity. The Godhead and their love for us.
Words on the Word 