“Rather, because of this I was shown mercy in order that in me, as the most prominent Christ Jesus might demonstrate the perfect patience as an example to those who would subsequently believe upon Him into life eternal.”

(1 Timothy 1:16)

The reading is simple, though its application is profound. Paul has already professed himself to be chief amongst sinners due to his persecution of Christians earlier in his life. Now, Paul is driving the point home by saying that the reason that God chose to save him was to be a model of the extent of God’s grace poured out on those who believe. Basically, it is a picture of God reaching down to the least of the least, the most wretched of the wretched, the most wicked of the wicked and showing that person grace as an example to those who will follow in faith.

What is the application of this teaching? Evangelize! Share the gospel! There is no sinner that is so far gone that it is impossible for God to save them. It is true that we do not know who the Elect are, but that is exactly the point. We don’t know who the elect are, so we should share the Gospel with all we meet. If Paul is a “model” or an example, then it can be confidently said that God delights to redeem those who we might view as incorrigible or irredeemable. Think of the many wicked men in church history that God has turned into believers and his servants: Augustine, John Newton, the many former cannibals of the New Hebrides Islands who became Christians through the work of John Paton. The list goes on and it is a list in which I would include my own name. Perhaps that list includes yours as well.

God will save His elect. Further, God did not choose His elect on the basis of anything in us. It is all about God’s will and God’s good pleasure. Our job is to be faithful and well-sharpened tools in the Master’s hand and to give Him praise and honor for the work He is doing in building Christ’s Kingdom.