1 Timothy 1:13 – September 11, 2022

I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and an arrogant man, but I have been mercifully treated because I acted out of ignorance in my unbelief. 1 Timothy 1:13 NABRE

Paul in writing to a disciple, Timothy, speaks about his experience in encountering Christ. Paul is converted from Jewish persecutor of the followers of Christ to a Jewish evangelist for Christ after a single encounter with Christ. Paul participated in the stoning of a Christian and was actively trying to crush this movement of Christianity. In meeting Christ Paul changes his ways and becomes educated about the gospel message. In his understanding of the message Paul realizes that he has received mercy, he believes, because he was ignorant of the message of Christ, which is a beautiful thought, but in all things God is merciful.

Paul speaks of being saved through Christ which is a message picked up by many churches today. Christ is a savior. Often this is seen as His act of death and resurrection. But this message of saving can be much more realistic. Paul’s life was headed in a destructive direction and it is his encounter with Christ that saves him, redirecting him from a path of destruction to a life of planting and growth. Had Paul continued in the direction he was heading we may never have heard of him. But changing direction he has become one of the most influential men in history. Christ saved him profoundly. Encountering Christ could save you as well, but know that God is merciful and everlasting life is in you future.

Have you had an encounter with Christ? Do you desire mercy?

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