MENTOR SERIES: No Matter Who! No Matter What!

(My notes from jan 15, sun a.m., FBC Ruston and Dr. Chris)

1 Timothy 1:12-17

12 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. 13 Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. 14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

1. No matter who you are or what you've done, Christ can save you (v 13-16)
Christ saved Saul/Paul ... Paul declares he is a trophy of the grace of God
vs. 17 is an exclamation point on Paul's declaration

2. No matter who you are or what you've done, Christ can use you (v 12)
God appointed Paul a servant/minister, though he HAD been a destroyer of the church; he wrote at least 13 New Testament books...

Illustration: Sailor and party-er and slave trader John Newton found Christ, authored "Amazing Grace" and became a minister who worked to end the slave trade

Paul wants us to understand that the hope and grace available to him is available to all

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