Paul writes to Timothy that he was the chief sinner.
I wonder about this. This is a very interesting statement. In the first place, it seems incongruous that one who was so blessed by the Lord should acknowledge this kind of thing. But he hastens to explain that his sinning allowed him the full measure of the Lord's mercy. This enabled him to completely reform his life and become a new creature, one who knew first-hand the love of the Lord and His grace.
Paul's experience, of course, is similar to that of Alma the younger. He also was a terrible sinner, saw an incredible vision, and changed his life. I find this idea very appealing. Life is hard, and I have personally done things that I am not proud of. Yet the mercy of Christ is extended to me - I can repent and be better, reform my life, and become who I was meant to be.
I also find it interesting that Paul uses a very different tact when speaking to Timothy. While still expounding good and valid doctrine, he is much more loving and understanding of Timothy. He explains that Christ is our Mediator, the pillar between the ground and the heavens, connecting us with the Father. We have access to the Father through the great Mediator. That is why we pray to the Father in His name.
We are all sinners. We have all come short of the desired and ideal. We all struggle with things that we know better. Yet in all of this, there is a great shining Light, a perfect Light, which shines in our darkest moments and illuminates even the most occluded heart. As we come to understand the goodness of God, His grace and mercy will abound in us forever. We can love Him because He first loved us. And there is no greater love.
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