1Timothy 1:15-16 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.
‘Faithful saying’ – there are four “faithful sayings” in Timothy and Titus: Christ came to save sinners (1:15; 4:10; Matt. 1:21; John 3:16; Gal. 1:4). Godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of life now, and of that which is to come (1:4). If we are dead with Him, we shall also live with Him (2Tim. 2:11-13). They which belief must maintain good works (Tit. 3:8; cp. 1Tim. 3:1; Rev. 21:5; 22:6). This gives the whole span of redemption from the fall of man to the eternal reign with Christ.
‘Worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.’ The gospel of Christ dying to save sinners is worthy of being accepted by the whole world. Since He died for the world, the world has a right to the benefits of His death (John 3:16-20, 36; 5:24).
‘Of whom I am chief’ – The sins of note, 1Timothy 1:13 above gave him claim to the title chief of sinners. The Greek for chief is protos, meaning first in rank. Translated “chief” (1:15; Matt. 20:27; Mark 6:21; 10:44; Acts 13:50; 16:12; 17:4; 25:2; 28:7, 17).
‘For this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.’ Because Christ came to save sinners, I (Paul) obtained mercy. I have been chosen as a pattern (example) for all who will believe in Christ for everlasting life.
Living the Word 