Talks for Growing Christians
Paul's Experiences Before and After Becoming a Christian
1 Timothy 1:12-17
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Lesson Number 3
Background Notes
Doctrinal Point(s)
- God’s mercy does take into account the ignorance of man.
- God’s mercy is not separate from the sovereign plan of God.
Practical Application
- Do you have periodic bursts of praise?
Questions
- Why is this section sometimes called “Paul’s delayed thanksgiving”?
- What is Paul thanking and praising the Lord for in this passage?
- Is this a change of subject from his case against false teaching?
- What is the purpose of the law?
- What does Romans 7:7 tell us about Paul?
- Does ignorance change God’s standards?
- Is anyone actually ignorant of God?
Answers
- First century letters would normally have a section of thanksgiving following the salutation.
- For his salvation and for being put into Christian service.
- No. Actually, it’s part of his argument against false teaching, because false teachers did not understand the purpose of the law.
- To act as a mirror to show that we are unclean. The law cannot save us, but it points out sin.
- That Paul kept the law before he met Christ. He was sincere, but sincerely mistaken.
- No. But God takes into account a person’s ignorance when dealing with him.
- No. See Romans 1.
Discuss/Consider
- Paul thought he was doing God’s will before he became a Christian. See Acts 26:9. God took this ignorance into account and saved him. How did God save you?
- Paul actually delighted in getting Christians killed (see Acts 26:10-11). But Paul received God’s mercy. This is a pattern for believers. How did God show you mercy when you were ignorant of Him?
Challenge
- Read 1 Timothy 1:17. A doxology of praise is typical of Paul. He praises God for His character and attributes. When was the last time you had a burst of praise?
Key Verses
- “ I thank Jesus Christ our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry. ” - 1 Timothy 1:12 “ I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. ” - 1 Timothy 1:13 “ The grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant…” - 1 Timothy 1:14 “ Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. ” - 1 Timothy 1:15 “ Jesus Christ showed all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life. ” - 1 Timothy 1:16 “ Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. ” - 1 Timothy 1:17
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