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1 Timothy 1:16 |
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Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.
Note 11 at 1 Tim. 1:16: Paul's testimony of his conversion is found five times in the New Testament (Acts 9:3-18; 22:3-16; 26:12-20; Gal. 1-2; Phil. 3:5-16).
Paul states here that his experience was a "pattern" to all those who would follow him in faith in Christ. The Greek word used here is HUPOTUPOSIS and literally means "a sketch (figuratively) for imitation" (Strong's). The Lord used Paul's conversion to draw a picture for us of just how great His mercy and saving power is.
Paul's salvation displayed God's grace to the worst and most wretched of sinners. Paul's conversion showed an example that any sinner, regardless of his state, may be saved. Furthermore, it was the chief of sinners (v. 15) who became one of the greatest saints and servants of God (Gal. 2:8; Eph. 1:1).
