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The Grace of Christ

Gives Us Strength to Serve

1 Timothy 1:12-17

 

No one understood the mindset of the Judaizing teachers better than Paul. Earlier in his life, Paul had viewed those of the Way as a threat to the Law of Moses. Yet, everything changed for him. In this section, Paul describes his change of life. By doing this, he draws a contrast between the Law and Grace.

Paul begins this section by thanking Christ for giving him strength to serve God as an apostle. God permitted him to serve despite his undeniably sinful past. In the previous section, Paul stated that the Law was given for sinners (1 Tim. 1:9-10). The Law proved that Paul was a sinner; however, he had failed to understand another important aspect of the Law. The Law made clear Israel’s need for God’s grace. The only hope Paul had as a sinner was to receive the grace of Christ to be forgiven of his sins. The Judaizing teachers only had one hope. As sinners condemned by the Law they promoted, they needed to receive the grace of Christ.

Also, Paul emphasizes the power of God’s grace. He viewed himself as the world’s worst sinner; yet, God gave him mercy. Mercy is the extension of grace. Mercy is the act of pardon for the guilty. Therefore, grace is always undeserved.

Additionally, the grace of God transformed Paul. Grace energized Paul to preach the saving message of the Gospel. Not only was Israel in need of the grace of Christ, the Gentiles were, as well. Christ chose Paul to take the Gospel to the Gentiles. This mission gave Paul’s life new meaning. His work was not easy. Yet, by the grace of God, Paul served to the fullest extent possible.

QUESTIONS

1. Paul tried to save himself by keeping the Law of Moses. What are some of the ways we try to save ourselves today?

2. How are we saved by grace?

3. How does God’s grace give us strength to serve?

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