Think about the life of Saul of Tarsus before he was known as the apostle Paul. He persecuted anyone claiming to follow Jesus. He played a significant role in the unspeakable violence aimed at Christians and, in his own words, was the “chief” of sinners (1 Timothy 1:15, KJV). Nothing he did deserves God’s love or forgiveness.
Read 1 Timothy 1:12-17.
Divine grace — God’s unmerited favor — led the Almighty to reach down, forgive Saul, and change the trajectory of his life. God lovingly transformed him into a man who dedicated himself to sharing the gospel message. The apostle’s life beautifully illustrates the power of God’s goodness.
No matter how many good deeds we perform, we are unable to earn our way into heaven. Salvation is possible only because of Jesus Christ; the One who made it possible for us to be free from sin deserves all credit for our redemption. He blesses us according to His goodness, apart from anything we’ve done.
There is no transgression too great for Jesus to forgive. We can add nothing to His all-sufficient act of atonement — all we’re able to do is receive this free gift. If we trust in Christ as Savior, God will save us, making us His children forever.
As the Hymn “Chief of Sinners Though I Be” declares:
Chief of sinners though I be,
Jesus shed His blood for me.
Died that I might live on high,
Lived that I might never die.
As the branch is to the vine,
I am His and He is mine.
Prayer
Father, I thank You for the gift of salvation through Your Son, Jesus. Let me always remember Your mercy and grace, and always return my feed to Your path when I fail and stray away.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
