1 Timothy 1:15 "This is a true saying, and everyone should believe it: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners -- and I was the worst of them all."
Paul is recounting how he once persecuted Christians, hunted them down, and had them arrested. In certain cases, men like him had followers of Jesus killed. Yet, Jesus saved Paul. Jesus turned him into a new creation and completely changed his life. Paul reflects on this and points out that this was the very reason Jesus came-"to save sinners."
Paul says he is the worst sinner of all. He hasn't met me! If I'm really honest I'm just as much of a sinner as Paul. And yet the beautiful thing is, Jesus came and hung on a cross for Paul and for me, in spite of our sin. In fact he did this because of our sin, and for our sin. And if Jesus saved Paul, the "worst of them all" than he can save anybody. His salvation is for everyone willing to hear it and accept it. That is good news. That is Jesus. I must remember to tell everyone I know, no matter how sinful I think they are (and I know some good sinners!) that Jesus is for them. He loves them and he came for them.
Dear Jesus, thank you for coming to earth for me and Paul. Help me share your good news with someone today. Amen.
