Bible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample

There’s Hope for Even the Worst!
Read 1 Timothy 1:12-20

Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 1 Timothy 1:15

Many Christians in Asia come from non-Christian families and communities. Some of our loved ones, including our parents, are devout followers of other religions or are free-thinkers. They tolerate our new-found faith at best or actively persecute us at worst. We may despair that they would ever come to the Lord.

Paul was once a blasphemer and violent persecutor of Christians. But he was touched and transformed by the grace, mercy, love and faith that Christ poured out on him. Christ came to save sinners and Paul claimed that he was the worst.

Christ not only turned him away from his old sinful ways but appointed him to His service as well. Paul was changed from being the ‘chief of sinners’ into the greatest apostle and missionary of the early church. There is no one too hard-core for Christ to change.

When the going got tough, Paul focused his eyes on God and Christ, the great King, and his strength and courage were renewed. He could go on and he urged Timothy to do likewise. We must not give up our faith, like Hymanaeus and Alexander did. Even when persecuted let us fight the good fight and hold on to Christ till the end. If Christ could save Paul, the worst of sinners, He can save anyone.

Pray for hard-core unbelieving family members, friends and persecutors of God’s children. Ask God to give them an ‘on the road to Damascus’ encounter with the risen Christ and pray that they will be saved to love and serve Him.