1 Tim 1:12-20

Paul reveals the purpose of God in his redemption from being a persecutor of the church to one of its greatest proponents.

Paul’s Transformation

1 Timothy 1:12–20 “12 I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service, 13 though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, 14 and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.

God transformed Paul to be a glorifier, promoter, and fervent advocate for the Gospel of Jesus.

God is able to see the potential of a heart and life that is surrendered to Him

God saved Saul on his way to persecute the church, and made Saul a member of His body.

Mercy’s Purpose

15 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. 16 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.

Why is it a good thing that Jesus saved Saul?

He can save me too.

Why is it a good thing that Jesus had a purpose in mind for Paul?

Because He has a purpose in mind for me too.

What divine purpose are we missing because we have our head and our hearts buried in the things of this earth, or in our shame?

Praise Break!

17 To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

Timothy’s Charge

18 This charge I entrust to you, Timothy, my child, in accordance with the prophecies previously made about you, that by them you may:

wage the good warfare,

19 holding faith and a good conscience.

Wine in a wine bottle

By rejecting this, some have made shipwreck of their faith, 20 among whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme.”

Violation of conscience= grounding and destruction of a life of faith

Not beyond hope of redemption

Satan has been playing games with God’s people

temptation

alienation

destruction

HTSWL

Repent of known sin and invite the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas of your life that are dishonoring to Him.

Do not allow satan’s subtle voice to suggest your exoneration

Do not allow him to redefine the terms

The Holy Spirit may only speak once and very quietly. Then only after the devastation of our wayward actions

Walk in obedience to Jesus, in fellowship with God’s people

Struggle Well

but never alone

1 Peter 1:3–7 “3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”