Clearing out the rubbish

This is a true saying, to be completely accepted and believed: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. I am the worst of them, but God was merciful to me in order that Christ Jesus might show his full patience in dealing with me, the worst of sinners, as an example for all those who would later believe in him and receive eternal life. To the eternal King, immortal and invisible, the only God – to him be honour and glory for ever and ever! Amen.            (verses 15-17)

Read 1 Timothy 1:1-17

One of the bugbears of life is machinery that doesn’t work properly. It has to be taken apart, and often the problem is due to an accumulation of grime or rubbish. Once that has been cleared away the machine functions smoothly again.

The purpose of Paul’s first letter to his friend Timothy is to give advice and encouragement to the young pastor at Ephesus, where some members of his congregation are losing sight of the gospel by indulging in useless discussions and arguments. Only when such ‘rubbish’ is removed can the wonderful message that Jesus came to save all people from death be clearly and joyfully proclaimed. Paul, leading by example, then recalls his own salvation through the gift of faith in Jesus.

Paul names himself ‘worst sinner’ in order to highlight the magnificence of God’s grace and mercy. God is not in the business of categorising sins. His business is saving, and you are one of the saved. Your baptism is your guarantee of the astounding fact that you have been released from the death sentence and have been given eternal life.

Lord, I want to pour out my thanks and praise for all your goodness to me. Let everyone praise you! Amen.

by Margaret Hunt, in ‘New Strength for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 1998)

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