1 Timothy 1:13
Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
Study Note
Study Note
Paul's testimony to his own pre-conversion identity — 'I was a blasphemer and a persecutor and insolent,' acted in unbelief, and obtained mercy — provides the autobiographical foundation for his theology of grace (verse 14-16). The distinction 'I acted in ignorance and unbelief' neither excuses the sin nor removes responsibility, but it contextualizes the magnitude of mercy: forgiveness operates where accountability exists. Luke 23:34 and Acts 3:17 apply the 'ignorance' motif to those who crucified Jesus, consistent with a New Testament pattern where culpable ignorance does not preclude sincere repentance. Paul's self-identification as a pattern ('foremost' among sinners who received mercy as an 'example,' verse 16) makes his testimony a pastoral resource for those who consider their own sin too great for forgiveness.
Other Translations
though I was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: howbeit I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief;
who before was speaking evil, and persecuting, and insulting, but I found kindness, because, being ignorant, I did <FI>it<Fi> in unbelief,
Though I had said violent words against God, and done cruel acts, causing great trouble: but I was given mercy, because I did it without knowledge, not having faith;
Cross References
But the soul that doeth ought presumptuously, whether he be born in the land, or a stranger, the same reproacheth …
And I will sow her unto me in the earth; and I will have mercy upon her that had not …
And that servant, which knew his lord’s will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be …
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast …
And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that …
Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore …
And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.
As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them …
And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,
And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard …