Young People's Group

HE EXAMPLE OF PAUL – CHANGED BY THE LORD’S GRACE

by Pastor Mitch
February 28, 2010

Difficulties In Changing

Sin can be so ingrained in our lives that we often find it hard to change. When we look at Paul’s past life, sin was also very much a part of his life.

“Although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man”
1 Timothy 1:13

Paul spoke sacrilegiously against God. He persecuted Christians to the death. His
pride and insolence caused him to speak contemptuously against the Christians.
Despite being a grave sinner, he was able to change into a great servant of God. How
was he able to do this? It was possible through the abundant grace of God.

Deeply Touched By The Abundant Grace Of God

“And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant”
1 Timothy 1:14

The grace of God was so great towards Paul that it touched his soul deeply. No matter how sinful we are, the measure of God’s grace is far greater than our sins.

1. The Lord Extending Mercy To Paul

“But I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.”
1 Timothy 1:13

“However, for this reason I obtained mercy… as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life.”
1 Timothy 1:16

Despite Paul’s sinfulness, the Lord was still most merciful to him. He knew that Paul persecuted the Christians because he did it in spiritual ignorance. The Lord was most merciful to Paul by giving him a second chance at life.

2. The Lord Being Longsuffering Towards Him

“That in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering”
1 Timothy 1:16

Paul also understood how the Lord Jesus was most longsuffering towards him. He did not give up on Paul despite his sinful past. He believed in Paul and showed much love towards him. It was this grace expressed in Christ being longsuffering towards him that empowered his life. He sought to change because he was deeply touched by the great grace and love extended to him.

The Challenge To Follow Paul’s Example

“As a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him”
1 Timothy 1:16

From a dreadful sinner, Paul became a pattern for all who are seeking to have faith in the Lord. His grace encouraged and empowered him to change. The challenge is for us to follow his example. Let’s also seek to be transformed by the Lord’s great grace.

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