1 Timothy 1:15
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.
Study Note
Study Note
'The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost' — the 'faithful saying' (pistos logos) formula, unique to the Pastoral Epistles, introduces what may be a pre-existing catechetical formula that Paul endorses. The soteriological purpose clause 'came into the world to save sinners' expresses the Incarnation's goal in the most direct terms — matching Luke 19:10 ('the Son of Man came to seek and save the lost'). Paul's self-designation as 'the foremost' (prōtos) of sinners uses the superlative not to evaluate his sins relative to others but to emphasize the extremity of grace required for his case. The verse has been foundational for Christian proclamation because its simplicity and direct formulation makes it one of the clearest gospel summaries in the New Testament.
Other Translations
Faithful is the saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief:
stedfast <FI>is<Fi> the word, and of all acceptation worthy, that Christ Jesus came to the world to save sinners--first of whom I am;
It is a true saying, in which all may put their faith, that Christ Jesus came into the world to give salvation to sinners, of whom I am the chief:
Cross References
Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.
That thou mayest remember, and be confounded, and never open thy mouth any more because of thy shame, when I …
Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall lothe yourselves in …
Not for your sakes do I this, saith the Lord God, be it known unto you: be ashamed and confounded …
And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people …
But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come …
Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their …
Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life …
When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they …
I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.