Level Ground at the Cross
I love Paul's honesty about himself, his Savior, and God's purpose. Paul, in noting the strength that Jesus has given him and the service he is now privileged to offer, reminds his protégée that he has a past. He says, "Though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent." He doesn't beat around the bush. He just puts it out there. In fact, if you consider Paul's other letters, he is quick to point out his weaknesses and his failures in front of both saints and sinners, rulers and servants, and of course, in front of all of the churches he writes to encourage and teach.
I don't think many brand consultants or career coaches would suggest that strategy to many start-ups or job seekers. “Invest in me, hire me, though formerly I was a drunk, a liar, a crook or maybe a gossip, a meddler, or an adulterer.” Usually, we are coached to put our best foot forward and share some of our successes or our skills and talents. But Paul points out his worst qualities as evidence of God's grace and mercy and in so doing demonstrates to everyone that there is level ground at the cross. He wants everyone to know that it is not your past failures or even your accomplishments that gain God's favor. It is only the love of God expressed in Christ that gives us God's favor and draws us into his family and his service.
Pride is so easy to fall into. I want to always remember that formerly I was a .... And that sometimes formerly was five minutes ago. It is truly amazing that God uses us to do his Kingdom work! Let's claim this truth with Paul and pray his prayer today:
"But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost (sinner), Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever, Amen."
Your Time with God’s Word
1 Timothy 1:12-17 ESV
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