Today we start with a new book of the Bible, the first of two letters from Paul to a young pastor named Timothy: 1 Timothy, chapter 1. “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (v 15). This truth is the beating heart of all our hope and joy. God’s patience and mercy are at work to save all sinners, whether they are blinded by ignorance (like Paul) or have actively rejected the faith (like Hymenaeus and Alexander). Our conscience may sometimes be plagued by doubts and regrets. But if God’s desire to save sinners could extend even to Paul, who actively persecuted Jesus’ followers, and who is foremost among sinners, then it can certainly extend to us as well. God’s mercy and patience for us is demonstrated at the cross, where Jesus died as the substitute for all sinners and won eternal life for all who believe.
Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 10460-10461). (Function). Kindle Edition.