1 Timothy 1:15
Verse
Context
God’s Grace to Paul
14And the grace of our Lord overflowed to me, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.15This is a trustworthy saying, worthy of full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst.16But for this very reason I was shown mercy, so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display His perfect patience as an example to those who would believe in Him for eternal life.
Sermons
Bakht Singh
Zac Poonen
J. Edwin Orr
C.H. SpurgeonC.H. SpurgeonSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners - This is one of the most glorious truths in the book of God; the most important that ever reached the human ear, or can be entertained by the heart of man. All men are sinners; and as such condemned, justly condemned, to eternal death. Christ Jesus became incarnate, suffered, and died to redeem them; and, by his grace and Spirit, saves them from their sins. This saying or doctrine he calls, first, a faithful or true saying; πιστος ὁ λογος, it is a doctrine that may be credited, without the slightest doubt or hesitation; God himself has spoken it; and the death of Christ and the mission of the Holy Ghost, sealing pardon on the souls of all who believe, have confirmed and established the truth. Secondly, it is worthy of all acceptation; as all need it, it is worthy of being received by all. It is designed for the whole human race, for all that are sinners is applicable to all, because all are sinners; and may be received by all, being put within every man's reach, and brought to every man's ear and bosom, either by the letter of the word, or, where that revelation is not yet come, by the power of the Divine Spirit, the true light from Christ that lightens every man that cometh into the world. From this also it is evident that the death of Christ, and all its eternally saving effects, were designed for every man. Of whom I am chief - Ὡν πρωτος ειμι εγω. Confounding Paul the apostle, in the fullness of his faith and love, with Saul of Tarsus, in his ignorance, unbelief, and persecuting rage, we are in the habit of saying: "This is a hyperbolical expression, arguing the height of the apostle's modesty and humility and must not be taken according to the letter." I see it not in this light; I take it not with abatement; it is strictly and literally true: take the whole of the apostle's conduct, previously to his conversion, into consideration, and was there a greater sinner converted to God from the incarnation to his own time? Not one; he was the chief; and, keeping his blasphemy, persecution, and contumely in view, he asserts: Of all that the Lord Jesus came into the world to save, and of all that he had saved to that time, I am chief. And who, however humble now, and however flagitious before, could have contested the points with him? He was what he has said, and as he has said it. And it is very probable that the apostle refers to those in whom the grace and mercy of God were, at the first promulgation of the Gospel, manifested: and comparing himself with all these he could with propriety say, ὡν πρωτος ειμι, of whom I am the first; the first who, from a blasphemer, persecutor (and might we not add murderer? see the part he took in the martyrdom of Stephen), became a preacher of that Gospel which I had persecuted. And hence, keeping this idea strictly in view, he immediately adds: Howbeit, for this cause I obtained mercy; that in me First, πρωτῳ, Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a pattern To Them which should Hereafter, των μελλοντων believe on him to life everlasting. And this great display of the pardoning mercy of God, granted in so singular a manner, at the very first promulgation of the Gospel, was most proper to be produced as a pattern for the encouragement of all penitent sinners to the end of time. If Jesus Christ, with whom there can be no respect of persons, saved Saul of Tarsus, no sinner need despair.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
faithful--worthy of credit, because "God" who says it "is faithful" to His word (Co1 1:9; Th1 5:24; Th2 3:3; Rev 21:5; Rev 22:6). This seems to have become an axiomatic saying among Christians the phrase, "faithful saying," is peculiar to the Pastoral Epistles (Ti1 2:11; Ti1 4:9; Tit 3:8). Translate as Greek, "Faithful is the saying." all--all possible; full; to be received by all, and with all the faculties of the soul, mind, and heart. Paul, unlike the false teachers (Ti1 1:7), understands what he is saying, and whereof he affirms; and by his simplicity of style and subject, setting forth the grand fundamental truth of salvation through Christ, confutes the false teachers' abstruse and unpractical speculations (Co1 1:18-28; Tit 2:1). acceptation--reception (as of a boon) into the heart, as well as the understanding, with all gladness; this is faith acting on the Gospel offer, and welcoming and appropriating it (Act 2:41). Christ--as promised. Jesus--as manifested [BENGEL]. came into the world--which was full of sin (Joh 1:29; Rom 5:12; Jo1 2:2). This implies His pre-existence. Joh 1:9, Greek, "the true Light that, coming into the world, lighteth every man." to save sinners--even notable sinners like Saul of Tarsus. His instance was without a rival since the ascension, in point of the greatness of the sin and the greatness of the mercy: that the consenter to Stephen, the proto-martyr's death, should be the successor of the same! I am--not merely, "I was chief" (Co1 15:9; Eph 3:8; compare Luk 18:13). To each believer his own sins must always appear, as long as he lives, greater than those of others, which he never can know as he can know his own. chief--the same Greek as in Ti1 1:16, "first," which alludes to this fifteenth verse, Translate in both verses, "foremost." Well might he infer where there was mercy for him, there is mercy for all who will come to Christ (Mat 18:11; Luk 19:10).
John Gill Bible Commentary
This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation,.... This is said, lest it should be thought strange, or scarcely credible, that so great a sinner should be saved; as well as to give a summary of the glorious Gospel the apostle was intrusted with; and in opposition to fables, endless genealogies, and vain jangling, and contentions about the law. The doctrine of Christ's coming into the world, and of salvation by him, as it is the sum and substance of the Gospel, so it is a "faithful saying"; in which the faithfulness of God is displayed to himself, and the perfections of his nature, his holiness, justice, love, grace, and mercy; to his law, which is magnified, and made honourable; to his word of promise hereby fulfilled; and to his Son in carrying him through the work: and the faithfulness of Christ is discovered herein, both to his Father with whom, and to his friends for whom, he engaged to obtain salvation; and the faithfulness of ministers is shown in preaching it, and of other saints in professing it, and abiding by it: it is a true saying, and not to be disputed or doubted of, but to be believed most firmly; it is certain that God the Father sent his Son into the world for this purpose; and Christ himself assures us, that he came for this end; his carriage to sinners, and his actions, testified the same; his works and miracles confirm it; and the numberless instances of sinners saved by him evince the truth of it: and it is "worthy of all acceptation"; or to be received by all sorts of persons, learned, or unlearned, rich or poor, greater or lesser sinners; and to be received in all ways, and in the best manner, as the word of God, and not man; with heartiness and readiness, and with love, joy, and gladness, and with meekness, faith, and fear, and by all means; for it is entirely true, absolutely necessary, and suitable to the case of all, and is to be highly valued and esteemed by those who do approve and accept of it. It is the Christian Cabala, or the evangelical tradition, delivered by the Father to Christ, by him to his apostles, and by them to the saints, by whom it is cordially received. The apostle seems to allude to the Cabala of the Jews, their oral law, which they say (m) was delivered to Moses on Mount Sinai, and by him to Joshua; and by Joshua to the elders; and by the elders to the prophets; and so from one to another to his times: but here he suggests, that if they would have a Cabala, here is one, that is firm, and true, and certain, and worthy to be received, whereas the Jewish one was precarious, yea, false and untrue. Indeed, sometimes the words of the prophets are so called by them; so that passage in Joe 2:13 is called "Cabala" (n), some thing delivered and received; upon which one of their commentators (o) has these words, "whatever a prophet commands the Israelites, makes known unto them, or exhorts them to, is a Cabala. And if a prophetic command or admonition, then surely: such an evangelical doctrine, as follows, is entitled to this character, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; Christ came into the world, being sent by his Father, but not against his will, but with his free consent: he came voluntarily in the fulness of time into this sinful world, where he was ill treated; and this was not by local motion, or change of place, but by assumption of nature; and the end of it was, that he might be the Saviour of lost sinners, as all men are, both by Adam's sin, and their own transgressions; though he came not to save all, for then all would be saved, whereas they are not; and if he came to save them, he must have then so far lost his end; but he came to save sinners, of all sorts, even notorious sinners, the worst and chief of sinners: and the apostle instances in himself, of whom I am chief; or "first"; not that he was the first in time; Adam was the first man that sinned, though Eve was before him in the transgression: it is a most stupid notion, that some gave into from this passage, as if the soul of Adam passed from one body to another, till it came to Paul, and therefore he calls himself the first of sinners: but his meaning is, that he was the first in quality, or the greatest and chiefest of sinners, not only of those that are saved, but of all men, Jews or Gentiles; and this he said not hyperbolically, nor out of modesty, but from a real sense or apprehension he had of himself, and his sins, which were made exceeding sinful to him; or he was the chief of sinners, and exceeded all others in his way of sinning, in blaspheming the name of Christ, and persecuting his saints, otherwise his conversation was externally moral, and in his own, and in the opinion of others, blameless: he was no fornicator, adulterer, thief, extortioner, &c. but in the above things he went beyond all others, and was a ringleader in them; and the remembrance of these sins abode with him, and kept him humble all his days; he was always ready to acknowledge them, and express his vileness and unworthiness on account of them: hence he here says, not "of whom I was", but "of whom I am chief". Now such sinners, and all sorts of sinners, Christ came to save from all their sins, original and actual; from the law, its curse and condemnation; from the bondage of Satan, the evil of the world, and wrath to come, and from every enemy; and that, by his obedience, sufferings, and death, by fulfilling the law, bearing its penalty, offering himself a sacrifice for sin, thereby finishing it, making reconciliation for it, and bringing in an everlasting righteousness: and a great Saviour he is, and an only one; a full, suitable, able, and willing Saviour; a Saviour of the soul, as well as of the body, and of both with an everlasting salvation, (m) Pirke Abot, c. 1. sect. 1. (n) Misn. Taanith, c. 2. sect. 1. (o) Jarchi Misn. Taanith, c. 2. sect. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:15 This is a trustworthy saying: This expression occurs only in the letters to Timothy and Titus (1 Tim 3:1; 4:8-9; 2 Tim 2:11-13; Titus 3:4-8). These sayings are probably quotations from tradition that Paul has adapted to the current situation; here, in addition to the way the saying underscores the mercy shown to Paul, it probably corrects the false teachers. The emphasis of this saying falls on Christ’s entrance into history for the salvation of sinners, which was probably being marginalized by the false teachers, who emphasized law (1 Tim 1:7), special knowledge (6:20; cp. Titus 1:16), and stipulations such as those in 1 Tim 4:3 (cp. Col 2:16-23).
1 Timothy 1:15
God’s Grace to Paul
14And the grace of our Lord overflowed to me, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.15This is a trustworthy saying, worthy of full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst.16But for this very reason I was shown mercy, so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display His perfect patience as an example to those who would believe in Him for eternal life.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Attributes of God (Series 2): The Divine Infinitude
By A.W. Tozer4.6K48:38Attributes of GodMAT 22:37JHN 1:29JHN 14:6ROM 1:202CO 12:9EPH 2:81TI 1:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the infinite nature of God and how it allows us to be bold and brave in the universe. He compares this boldness to that of a young child who feels brave when their father is around. The preacher acknowledges that he can only point people to God and the Lamb of God who takes away sins, but it is up to individuals to have a personal relationship with God. He also discusses the difference between knowing about God and truly knowing God, emphasizing the need for a spiritual rebirth through the Holy Spirit.
Bakht Singh Funeral - Part 1
By Bakht Singh4.0K06:001TI 1:15
This sermon tells the powerful transformation of a man named Boxing who, after encountering the words of John 3:3, experienced deep conviction, repentance, and a profound change of heart. Despite facing opposition and being told to keep his faith a secret, Boxing boldly proclaimed his newfound faith in Jesus, leading to his baptism and a life dedicated to sharing his testimony with others.
(Titus - Part 25): The Christian and Good Works I
By A.W. Tozer3.7K38:32TitusMAT 6:33LUK 18:1JHN 14:2ACT 20:241TI 1:152TI 4:7TIT 3:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of a faithful saying, which is a phrase often used by Paul in his writings. There is some debate among commentators about whether Paul meant the preceding or following statements to be the faithful saying. The preacher emphasizes the importance of believers being diligent in maintaining good works and being actively involved in serving God, even if they may not have certain talents like singing. He shares a testimony of a photographer who was converted by listening to a tape recording of one of his sermons.
(Basics) 5. the Function of Conscience
By Zac Poonen3.5K12:37GEN 3:6PRO 20:9MAT 9:12ROM 3:231TI 1:151PE 2:241JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of conscience as God's greatest gift to humanity. He explains that conscience serves as a warning signal, much like pain in our physical bodies, indicating when we fall short of God's standards. The speaker highlights how children naturally exhibit selfish tendencies and a propensity for wrongdoing, which stems from the sinful nature inherited from Adam and Eve. He also points out that even religious individuals can possess selfishness masked by external displays of goodness. Ultimately, the sermon teaches that our selfishness is the root cause of all our problems and that we must strive to align ourselves with God's standards.
Chapel of the Air - Characteristics of Revival
By J. Edwin Orr3.4K12:15Revival Theology2CH 7:14MAT 6:6MAT 9:38LUK 15:7ACT 1:141TI 1:15JAS 5:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the impact of revivals in the past and what he would like to see God do among the American people. He emphasizes the importance of having a burden for prayer and the need for prayer meetings to be more lively in churches. The speaker also highlights the significance of promoting explicit agreement and visible union among different denominations in order to experience a true revival. Additionally, he mentions that personal righteousness and confession of sin are key characteristics of revival, but cautions against public exhibitionism and the temptation to outdo each other in sharing past sins.
For Whom Is the Gospel Meant?
By C.H. Spurgeon3.3K49:22MRK 2:17ROM 5:6ROM 5:81TI 1:15The sermon transcript discusses the importance of persevering in successful processes and applying them on a larger scale. The preacher emphasizes the need to preach the basic elements of the gospel, focusing on the mission of Jesus in relation to sin. The transformative power of grace is highlighted, as it not only converts individuals but also inspires and moves them deeply. The preacher shares a personal experience of preaching a simple gospel message and witnessing immediate results, leading him to believe in the effectiveness of sticking to similar subjects.
His Name -- the Counsellor
By C.H. Spurgeon3.2K48:48GEN 10:32PSA 55:22JER 45:5JHN 6:37ROM 8:28EPH 1:41TI 1:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses the title given to Christ as a counselor. He explains that Christ is a counselor in three ways: as God's counselor, as our counselor in times of trouble, and as a counselor for those seeking worldly greatness. The preacher emphasizes that God's ways may seem roundabout to us, but He always goes straight to His purpose. He encourages listeners to cast their burdens upon the Lord and seek greatness in Christ rather than worldly pursuits. The preacher also highlights the significance of Christ's birth and how it relates to the past and future of the world.
Are You Tired?
By Major Ian Thomas3.0K1:04:58WearinessMAT 11:28JHN 3:16JHN 10:11JHN 14:6ACT 4:122CO 5:171TI 1:15In this sermon, the speaker begins by acknowledging the rapid growth of the world's population, with an estimated 4,000 more people being born by the time he finishes speaking. He also highlights the prevalent issue of tiredness among people in today's world. The speaker expresses his desire to bring refreshment and comfort to the tired audience. He then shares a personal story about a young girl who discovered the purpose of her existence in surrendering her entire being to Jesus Christ. Throughout the sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing God as our Creator and Redeemer, and surrendering all aspects of our lives to Him.
What Is Your Goal in Life?
By Paul Washer2.9K1:33:01PurposeEXO 20:24EXO 34:5MAT 1:21JHN 1:9JHN 3:141TI 1:15In this video, the speaker reflects on the brevity of life and the importance of considering what will be written on one's tombstone. He shares his hesitation in giving his testimony but feels called by the Lord to do so. The speaker emphasizes the significance of relationships in Christianity, highlighting the importance of loving God and others. He also reminds the audience that life is temporary and encourages them to live with purpose and not chase after meaningless things.
Eligibility for Communion
By John Murray2.6K41:38CommunionROM 1:51TI 1:15HEB 4:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the love of God towards believers. He explains that God's love for us is not based on our own goodness or worthiness, but rather on His own grace and sovereignty. The preacher highlights that God's love is demonstrated through His calling us into fellowship with His Son and working in us the obedience of praise. He encourages believers to humbly accept God's love and to strive for obedience and communion with Christ. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's blessing and a reminder of the throne of grace where we can find mercy and grace in times of need.
Memory - the Handmaid of Hope
By C.H. Spurgeon2.3K52:10PSA 69:33ISA 53:5JHN 14:16ACT 14:22ROM 5:51TI 1:15REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering the promises of God in difficult times. He shares a story of a young man who had to prove his rightful inheritance in court but lacked sufficient evidence. However, he discovers an old parchment in his father's chest that provides the necessary proof. The preacher then reminds the audience that there is a promise in the Bible that perfectly applies to their situation. He declares that Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners, which is the best news ever heard. The sermon concludes by urging the listeners to recognize their need for salvation and to trust in Christ.
Man's Ruin and God's Remedy
By C.H. Spurgeon1.9K44:23NUM 21:8MAT 6:33JHN 3:14ROM 5:82CO 5:21EPH 2:11TI 1:15In this sermon, the preacher addresses sinners and emphasizes their desperate state. He describes four alarming truths that sinners must face: their guilt for past sins, their inability to save themselves, their inherent depravity, and their inclination to continue sinning. The preacher warns that without belief in Christ, sinners are in a ruined state, much like the Israelites bitten by fiery serpents in the wilderness. However, he offers hope by proclaiming that Christ, who came down to sinners, is willing to save them if they trust in him.
Sovereignty and Salvation
By C.H. Spurgeon1.9K49:36JDG 16:202KI 5:10PSA 46:10ISA 45:22MAT 3:11ROM 3:231TI 1:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the simplicity and universality of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. He highlights the power of a simple act of looking to Jesus for salvation, which can happen in an instant. The preacher challenges the notion that salvation requires complex rituals or intellectual knowledge, stating that God has ordered a simple act of faith to humble us and show His sovereignty. He then directs the listeners to the crucifixion of Jesus, describing the agony and sacrifice He endured for the sake of sinners, inviting them to come and receive forgiveness and redemption through His blood.
The Weeding of the Garden
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K39:30ISA 55:1MAT 7:24MAT 11:28MAT 15:181TI 1:15REV 3:18REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the gospel is available to everyone, regardless of their sins or shortcomings. He encourages sinners to trust in Christ for salvation, assuring them that their souls will be saved and protected by God. The preacher emphasizes the need for a change in one's life, regardless of how moral they may have been. He urges believers to examine themselves and make sure they are truly saved, reminding them that Christ came to save sinners. The sermon concludes with a plea for those who feel unworthy or hopeless to come to Christ and receive his salvation.
The True Church (Reading)
By J.C. Ryle1.7K1:01:31MAT 6:33MAT 16:18ROM 8:92CO 13:5EPH 2:201TI 1:15HEB 10:25In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the church of Jesus Christ as the foundation that will endure forever. He highlights the ongoing conflict and opposition faced by the true church from the devil, who hates it passionately. Despite persecution and attempts to destroy it, the church has always prevailed and will continue to do so. The preacher assures the listeners that Christ will never be without a witness in the world, and that every member of his army will be accounted for in the end.
The Elizabethan Settlement
By J.I. Packer1.7K55:09MAT 11:28JHN 3:161TI 1:151JN 2:1In this sermon transcript, the preacher discusses the three main themes of the gospel: our sin, our need for pardon, and God's grace and promise of forgiveness through Christ. The sermon emphasizes the importance of faith, trust, thanksgiving, and dedication to God's service. The liturgy of the communion service is described as a double sequence of these themes, with the first part focusing on the proclamation of the gospel through words and the second part through the sacraments of receiving bread and wine. The sermon references Bible verses such as John 3:16 and Matthew 11:28 to highlight the promises of God to sinners.
The Saviour's Many Crowns
By C.H. Spurgeon1.6K41:15JOS 1:9PSA 55:22MAT 27:29ACT 9:11TI 1:15REV 4:10REV 19:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and sovereignty of Christ over all creation. He describes how Christ controls the seasons, the tides, and even the stars. The preacher also highlights Christ's role as the dispenser of grace and mercy, as well as the keyholder to heaven. He emphasizes the importance of imitating Christ in our battle with the world and encourages believers to have hope and courage in overcoming its temptations. The sermon draws from biblical references to support these teachings.
Save to the Uttermost
By Chuck Smith1.5K31:24JHN 14:6ROM 8:341TI 1:15HEB 7:25
This sermon delves into the concept of salvation and the importance of coming to God through Jesus Christ for complete redemption. It emphasizes the need to recognize our lost state due to sin and the assurance that Jesus is able to save to the uttermost. The sermon highlights the significance of Jesus' intercession for believers, the exclusivity of salvation through Christ, and the power of his prayers for those who come to him.
Studies in 1 Timothy-05 1 Timothy-5
By William MacDonald1.2K38:37DEU 25:4LUK 10:71TI 5:23The sermon transcript discusses various instructions given by Paul to Timothy on how to behave towards different classes in the Christian family. It begins by addressing the old and young, male and female, emphasizing the importance of showing honor and respect. The transcript then moves on to discussing the care and support of widows, highlighting the responsibility of the church in providing for them. It also touches on the role of elders in the church, emphasizing the need for financial care, caution in appointing men, and the importance of having multiple witnesses in cases of accusation. Overall, the transcript emphasizes the practical advice given by Paul to Timothy for the care of believers in the Christian assembly.
Questions People Ask-03 Questions and Answers
By William MacDonald1.2K34:48Question AnswerMAT 6:33ROM 5:81CO 6:192CO 5:17GAL 6:7EPH 2:81TI 1:15In this sermon, the speaker shares the transformational story of a man who was once involved in criminal activities and addiction but is now preaching the word of God in Brazil. The speaker emphasizes that when a person accepts Christ, they become a new creation and their life is revolutionized. The speaker also addresses the question of whether the gospel is too cheap, stating that salvation is a free gift from God but must be accepted. The sermon concludes by affirming that the gospel is easy and free, but it was only through the sacrificial death of Jesus that salvation became available to all.
Be Filled With the Holy Spirit - 6
By Zacharias Tanee Fomum1.0K2:03:35Holy SpiritMAT 9:13JHN 3:19ACT 4:12ROM 3:23EPH 2:81TI 1:151JN 1:8In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal testimony of how he came to know Jesus at a young age but struggled with a head knowledge of the Bible without a true heart transformation. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's sinfulness and need for forgiveness in order to have a relationship with Jesus. The speaker also highlights the natural inclination of humans to turn away from God and the consequences of sin that can affect future generations. He concludes by sharing a powerful story of how his teaching and guidance helped two students succeed academically and encourages listeners to trust in God's timing and not give up on what is good.
Do You Understand Your Situation
By Robin McKeown90327:06SituationJER 29:13LUK 5:31LUK 7:34ACT 8:26ACT 8:29ROM 3:231TI 1:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the message of the Gospel is for everyone, regardless of their race, religious background, or geographic location. He highlights three remarkable conversions from the book of Acts, which represent the three lines of the Sons of Noah, to illustrate God's reach to the entire world. The preacher emphasizes the importance of being saved and shares his personal experience of needing the Savior. He also discusses the role of a servant of God in carrying the Gospel to people and encourages the audience to seek God with all their hearts.
Loving Christ Supremely
By Zac Poonen89058:28PSA 73:25MAT 10:37MRK 12:30LUK 7:472CO 11:31TI 1:15HEB 3:131JN 4:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of developing a deep and pure devotion to Jesus Christ, focusing on the need to love Him fervently and to understand the depth of His forgiveness towards us. It challenges listeners to prioritize worshiping God above all else, to seek a genuine relationship with Him, and to be aware of both conscious and unconscious sins in their lives. The message encourages a humble and repentant heart, acknowledging the need for God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome sin and grow spiritually.
Chief of Sinners
By Joshua Daniel80128:30PSA 51:10PRO 28:13JHN 8:34ACT 7:58ROM 6:6GAL 2:20PHP 3:61TI 1:152TI 3:11JN 1:9
This sermon by Joshua Daniel emphasizes the need for a deep understanding of sin, the significance of the cross in crucifying our old selves, and the call for moral responsibility and revival in a world plagued by selfishness, greed, and moral decay. It challenges the complacency and lack of awareness of sin in society, urging a return to the core message of Christ's salvation for sinners. The speaker highlights the importance of acknowledging personal sinfulness and the transformative power of the cross in daily life.
Love the Sinner; Hate the Sin
By Shane Idleman71448:25PSA 51:17HOS 6:6MAT 9:13JHN 4:23ROM 3:23ROM 6:23GAL 5:151TI 1:15
This sermon emphasizes the importance of true repentance and following Jesus wholeheartedly. It challenges the audience to recognize their need for God's mercy and to prioritize a genuine relationship with Him over religious rituals. The message highlights the significance of worship as a time to connect with God and experience transformation in the heart.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners - This is one of the most glorious truths in the book of God; the most important that ever reached the human ear, or can be entertained by the heart of man. All men are sinners; and as such condemned, justly condemned, to eternal death. Christ Jesus became incarnate, suffered, and died to redeem them; and, by his grace and Spirit, saves them from their sins. This saying or doctrine he calls, first, a faithful or true saying; πιστος ὁ λογος, it is a doctrine that may be credited, without the slightest doubt or hesitation; God himself has spoken it; and the death of Christ and the mission of the Holy Ghost, sealing pardon on the souls of all who believe, have confirmed and established the truth. Secondly, it is worthy of all acceptation; as all need it, it is worthy of being received by all. It is designed for the whole human race, for all that are sinners is applicable to all, because all are sinners; and may be received by all, being put within every man's reach, and brought to every man's ear and bosom, either by the letter of the word, or, where that revelation is not yet come, by the power of the Divine Spirit, the true light from Christ that lightens every man that cometh into the world. From this also it is evident that the death of Christ, and all its eternally saving effects, were designed for every man. Of whom I am chief - Ὡν πρωτος ειμι εγω. Confounding Paul the apostle, in the fullness of his faith and love, with Saul of Tarsus, in his ignorance, unbelief, and persecuting rage, we are in the habit of saying: "This is a hyperbolical expression, arguing the height of the apostle's modesty and humility and must not be taken according to the letter." I see it not in this light; I take it not with abatement; it is strictly and literally true: take the whole of the apostle's conduct, previously to his conversion, into consideration, and was there a greater sinner converted to God from the incarnation to his own time? Not one; he was the chief; and, keeping his blasphemy, persecution, and contumely in view, he asserts: Of all that the Lord Jesus came into the world to save, and of all that he had saved to that time, I am chief. And who, however humble now, and however flagitious before, could have contested the points with him? He was what he has said, and as he has said it. And it is very probable that the apostle refers to those in whom the grace and mercy of God were, at the first promulgation of the Gospel, manifested: and comparing himself with all these he could with propriety say, ὡν πρωτος ειμι, of whom I am the first; the first who, from a blasphemer, persecutor (and might we not add murderer? see the part he took in the martyrdom of Stephen), became a preacher of that Gospel which I had persecuted. And hence, keeping this idea strictly in view, he immediately adds: Howbeit, for this cause I obtained mercy; that in me First, πρωτῳ, Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a pattern To Them which should Hereafter, των μελλοντων believe on him to life everlasting. And this great display of the pardoning mercy of God, granted in so singular a manner, at the very first promulgation of the Gospel, was most proper to be produced as a pattern for the encouragement of all penitent sinners to the end of time. If Jesus Christ, with whom there can be no respect of persons, saved Saul of Tarsus, no sinner need despair.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
faithful--worthy of credit, because "God" who says it "is faithful" to His word (Co1 1:9; Th1 5:24; Th2 3:3; Rev 21:5; Rev 22:6). This seems to have become an axiomatic saying among Christians the phrase, "faithful saying," is peculiar to the Pastoral Epistles (Ti1 2:11; Ti1 4:9; Tit 3:8). Translate as Greek, "Faithful is the saying." all--all possible; full; to be received by all, and with all the faculties of the soul, mind, and heart. Paul, unlike the false teachers (Ti1 1:7), understands what he is saying, and whereof he affirms; and by his simplicity of style and subject, setting forth the grand fundamental truth of salvation through Christ, confutes the false teachers' abstruse and unpractical speculations (Co1 1:18-28; Tit 2:1). acceptation--reception (as of a boon) into the heart, as well as the understanding, with all gladness; this is faith acting on the Gospel offer, and welcoming and appropriating it (Act 2:41). Christ--as promised. Jesus--as manifested [BENGEL]. came into the world--which was full of sin (Joh 1:29; Rom 5:12; Jo1 2:2). This implies His pre-existence. Joh 1:9, Greek, "the true Light that, coming into the world, lighteth every man." to save sinners--even notable sinners like Saul of Tarsus. His instance was without a rival since the ascension, in point of the greatness of the sin and the greatness of the mercy: that the consenter to Stephen, the proto-martyr's death, should be the successor of the same! I am--not merely, "I was chief" (Co1 15:9; Eph 3:8; compare Luk 18:13). To each believer his own sins must always appear, as long as he lives, greater than those of others, which he never can know as he can know his own. chief--the same Greek as in Ti1 1:16, "first," which alludes to this fifteenth verse, Translate in both verses, "foremost." Well might he infer where there was mercy for him, there is mercy for all who will come to Christ (Mat 18:11; Luk 19:10).
John Gill Bible Commentary
This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation,.... This is said, lest it should be thought strange, or scarcely credible, that so great a sinner should be saved; as well as to give a summary of the glorious Gospel the apostle was intrusted with; and in opposition to fables, endless genealogies, and vain jangling, and contentions about the law. The doctrine of Christ's coming into the world, and of salvation by him, as it is the sum and substance of the Gospel, so it is a "faithful saying"; in which the faithfulness of God is displayed to himself, and the perfections of his nature, his holiness, justice, love, grace, and mercy; to his law, which is magnified, and made honourable; to his word of promise hereby fulfilled; and to his Son in carrying him through the work: and the faithfulness of Christ is discovered herein, both to his Father with whom, and to his friends for whom, he engaged to obtain salvation; and the faithfulness of ministers is shown in preaching it, and of other saints in professing it, and abiding by it: it is a true saying, and not to be disputed or doubted of, but to be believed most firmly; it is certain that God the Father sent his Son into the world for this purpose; and Christ himself assures us, that he came for this end; his carriage to sinners, and his actions, testified the same; his works and miracles confirm it; and the numberless instances of sinners saved by him evince the truth of it: and it is "worthy of all acceptation"; or to be received by all sorts of persons, learned, or unlearned, rich or poor, greater or lesser sinners; and to be received in all ways, and in the best manner, as the word of God, and not man; with heartiness and readiness, and with love, joy, and gladness, and with meekness, faith, and fear, and by all means; for it is entirely true, absolutely necessary, and suitable to the case of all, and is to be highly valued and esteemed by those who do approve and accept of it. It is the Christian Cabala, or the evangelical tradition, delivered by the Father to Christ, by him to his apostles, and by them to the saints, by whom it is cordially received. The apostle seems to allude to the Cabala of the Jews, their oral law, which they say (m) was delivered to Moses on Mount Sinai, and by him to Joshua; and by Joshua to the elders; and by the elders to the prophets; and so from one to another to his times: but here he suggests, that if they would have a Cabala, here is one, that is firm, and true, and certain, and worthy to be received, whereas the Jewish one was precarious, yea, false and untrue. Indeed, sometimes the words of the prophets are so called by them; so that passage in Joe 2:13 is called "Cabala" (n), some thing delivered and received; upon which one of their commentators (o) has these words, "whatever a prophet commands the Israelites, makes known unto them, or exhorts them to, is a Cabala. And if a prophetic command or admonition, then surely: such an evangelical doctrine, as follows, is entitled to this character, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; Christ came into the world, being sent by his Father, but not against his will, but with his free consent: he came voluntarily in the fulness of time into this sinful world, where he was ill treated; and this was not by local motion, or change of place, but by assumption of nature; and the end of it was, that he might be the Saviour of lost sinners, as all men are, both by Adam's sin, and their own transgressions; though he came not to save all, for then all would be saved, whereas they are not; and if he came to save them, he must have then so far lost his end; but he came to save sinners, of all sorts, even notorious sinners, the worst and chief of sinners: and the apostle instances in himself, of whom I am chief; or "first"; not that he was the first in time; Adam was the first man that sinned, though Eve was before him in the transgression: it is a most stupid notion, that some gave into from this passage, as if the soul of Adam passed from one body to another, till it came to Paul, and therefore he calls himself the first of sinners: but his meaning is, that he was the first in quality, or the greatest and chiefest of sinners, not only of those that are saved, but of all men, Jews or Gentiles; and this he said not hyperbolically, nor out of modesty, but from a real sense or apprehension he had of himself, and his sins, which were made exceeding sinful to him; or he was the chief of sinners, and exceeded all others in his way of sinning, in blaspheming the name of Christ, and persecuting his saints, otherwise his conversation was externally moral, and in his own, and in the opinion of others, blameless: he was no fornicator, adulterer, thief, extortioner, &c. but in the above things he went beyond all others, and was a ringleader in them; and the remembrance of these sins abode with him, and kept him humble all his days; he was always ready to acknowledge them, and express his vileness and unworthiness on account of them: hence he here says, not "of whom I was", but "of whom I am chief". Now such sinners, and all sorts of sinners, Christ came to save from all their sins, original and actual; from the law, its curse and condemnation; from the bondage of Satan, the evil of the world, and wrath to come, and from every enemy; and that, by his obedience, sufferings, and death, by fulfilling the law, bearing its penalty, offering himself a sacrifice for sin, thereby finishing it, making reconciliation for it, and bringing in an everlasting righteousness: and a great Saviour he is, and an only one; a full, suitable, able, and willing Saviour; a Saviour of the soul, as well as of the body, and of both with an everlasting salvation, (m) Pirke Abot, c. 1. sect. 1. (n) Misn. Taanith, c. 2. sect. 1. (o) Jarchi Misn. Taanith, c. 2. sect. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:15 This is a trustworthy saying: This expression occurs only in the letters to Timothy and Titus (1 Tim 3:1; 4:8-9; 2 Tim 2:11-13; Titus 3:4-8). These sayings are probably quotations from tradition that Paul has adapted to the current situation; here, in addition to the way the saying underscores the mercy shown to Paul, it probably corrects the false teachers. The emphasis of this saying falls on Christ’s entrance into history for the salvation of sinners, which was probably being marginalized by the false teachers, who emphasized law (1 Tim 1:7), special knowledge (6:20; cp. Titus 1:16), and stipulations such as those in 1 Tim 4:3 (cp. Col 2:16-23).