“This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life.” (1 Tim 1:15-16)
“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.” This statement reflects Paul’s deep awareness of his own sinfulness and his complete dependence on God’s grace. He recognized the gravity of his sins and knew that salvation was only possible through the grace of God. Paul’s transformation was not a result of his own efforts but the work of God’s abundant mercy. Through the longsuffering and grace Christ showed to Paul, others could find hope and encouragement to believe in Him for eternal life.
Just as He accepted Paul in the past, Christ continues to accept and save sinners today. Like the adulterous woman whom the scribes and Pharisees brought to Jesus for judgment, we may feel burdened by guilt and shame; maybe we think, “I feel so far away from God,” or “How could God ever love a sinner like me?” Yet, Jesus came into the world not to judge or condemn sinners but to save them. Paul’s story serves as a powerful reminder that no one is beyond the reach of Christ’s grace and love.
Consider the account of the blind beggar as Jesus passed through Jericho. The beggar cried out to Jesus for mercy, but the crowd rebuked him, perhaps because his cries disturbed others. Undeterred, the beggar cried even louder, pleading for Jesus’ help. His persistence and faith reflect the attitude Jesus encourages us to adopt when we seek God’s grace and pray for the Holy Spirit, as illustrated in the parable of the persistent friend. The blind man seized the opportunity to ask Jesus for mercy. Subsequently, he received his sight. Filled with gratitude, he followed Jesus, praising God. His healing inspired others to glorify God as well.
The fourth stanza of the hymn “Just as I Am, Without One Plea” beautifully captures this theme of coming to Christ in faith and surrender:
“Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind;
Sight, riches, healing of the mind,
Yea, all I need, in Thee to find,
O Lamb of God, I come! I come!”
May we, too, approach Christ with the same faith, trusting that He is willing to accept us just as we are and to transform our lives by His grace.