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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Timothy 1:16 But for this very reason I was shown mercy, so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display His perfect patience as an example to those who would believe in Him for eternal life.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_timothy/1-16.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/15/54_1Ti_01_16.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Timothy 1:16 - God's Grace to Paul" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="But for this very reason I was shown mercy, so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display His perfect patience as an example to those who would believe in Him for eternal life." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_timothy/1-16.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_timothy/1-16.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_timothy/">1 Timothy</a> > <a href="/1_timothy/1.htm">Chapter 1</a> > Verse 16</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad16.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_timothy/1-15.htm" title="1 Timothy 1:15">◄</a> 1 Timothy 1:16 <a href="/1_timothy/1-17.htm" title="1 Timothy 1:17">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_timothy/1.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_timothy/1.htm">New International Version</a> But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. <a href="/nlt/1_timothy/1.htm">New Living Translation</a> But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. <a href="/esv/1_timothy/1.htm">English Standard Version</a> But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. <a href="/bsb/1_timothy/1.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> But for this very reason I was shown mercy, so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display His perfect patience as an example to those who would believe in Him for eternal life. <a href="/blb/1_timothy/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> But because of this I was shown mercy, that in me, the foremost, Christ Jesus might display perfect patience, as a pattern for those being about to believe on Him to eternal life. <a href="/kjv/1_timothy/1.htm">King James Bible</a> Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting. <a href="/nkjv/1_timothy/1.htm">New King James Version</a> However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life. <a href="/nasb_/1_timothy/1.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost sinner Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. <a href="/nasb/1_timothy/1.htm">NASB 1995</a> Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. <a href="/nasb77/1_timothy/1.htm">NASB 1977 </a> And yet for this reason I found mercy, in order that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience, as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. <a href="/lsb/1_timothy/1.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Yet for this reason I was shown mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Christ Jesus might demonstrate all His patience as an example for those who are going to believe upon Him for eternal life. <a href="/amp/1_timothy/1.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost [of sinners], Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example or pattern for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. <a href="/csb/1_timothy/1.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> But I received mercy for this reason, so that in me, the worst of them, Christ Jesus might demonstrate his extraordinary patience as an example to those who would believe in him for eternal life. <a href="/hcsb/1_timothy/1.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> But I received mercy for this reason, so that in me, the worst of them, Christ Jesus might demonstrate His extraordinary patience as an example to those who would believe in Him for eternal life. <a href="/asv/1_timothy/1.htm">American Standard Version</a> howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me as chief might Jesus Christ show forth all his longsuffering, for an ensample of them that should thereafter believe on him unto eternal life. <a href="/cev/1_timothy/1.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> But since I was worse than anyone else, God had mercy on me and let me be an example of the endless patience of Christ Jesus. He did this so that others would put their faith in Christ and have eternal life. <a href="/erv/1_timothy/1.htm">English Revised Version</a> howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me as chief might Jesus Christ shew forth all his longsuffering, for an ensample of them which should hereafter believe on him unto eternal life. <a href="/gwt/1_timothy/1.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> However, I was treated with mercy so that Christ Jesus could use me, the foremost sinner, to demonstrate his patience. This patience serves as an example for those who would believe in him and live forever. <a href="/gnt/1_timothy/1.htm">Good News Translation</a> but God was merciful to me in order that Christ Jesus might show his full patience in dealing with me, the worst of sinners, as an example for all those who would later believe in him and receive eternal life. <a href="/isv/1_timothy/1.htm">International Standard Version</a> But for that very reason I received mercy, so that in me, as the worst sinner, the Messiah Jesus might demonstrate all of his patience as an example for those who would believe in him for eternal life. <a href="/msb/1_timothy/1.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> But for this very reason I was shown mercy, so that in me, the worst of sinners, Jesus Christ might display all His patience as an example to those who would believe in Him for eternal life. <a href="/net/1_timothy/1.htm">NET Bible</a> But here is why I was treated with mercy: so that in me as the worst, Christ Jesus could demonstrate his utmost patience, as an example for those who are going to believe in him for eternal life. <a href="/nheb/1_timothy/1.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> However, for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first, Jesus Christ might display all his patience, for an example of those who were going to believe in him for everlasting life. <a href="/wbt/1_timothy/1.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> However, for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all long-suffering, for a pattern to them who should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting. <a href="/wey/1_timothy/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> But mercy was shown me in order that in me as the foremost of sinners Christ Jesus might display the fulness of His long-suffering patience as an example to encourage those who would afterwards be resting their faith on Him with a view to the Life of the Ages. <a href="/web/1_timothy/1.htm">World English Bible</a> However, for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first, Jesus Christ might display all his patience for an example of those who were going to believe in him for eternal life. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_timothy/1.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> but because of this I found kindness, that Jesus Christ might first show forth all long-suffering in me, for a pattern of those about to believe on Him to continuous life. <a href="/blb/1_timothy/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> But because of this I was shown mercy, that in me, the foremost, Christ Jesus might display perfect patience, as a pattern for those being about to believe on Him to eternal life. <a href="/ylt/1_timothy/1.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> but because of this I found kindness, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all long-suffering, for a pattern of those about to believe on him to life age-during: <a href="/slt/1_timothy/1.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> But for this was I commiserated, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a model to them about to believe on him to eternal life.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_timothy/1.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> But for this cause have I obtained mercy: that in me first Christ Jesus might shew forth all patience, for the information of them that shall believe in him unto life everlasting. <a href="/cpdv/1_timothy/1.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> But it was for this reason that I obtained mercy, so that in me as first, Christ Jesus would display all patience, for the instruction of those who would believe in him unto eternal life. <a href="/nabre/1_timothy/1.htm">New American Bible</a> But for that reason I was mercifully treated, so that in me, as the foremost, Christ Jesus might display all his patience as an example for those who would come to believe in him for everlasting life. <a href="/nrsvce/1_timothy/1.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> But for that very reason I received mercy, so that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display the utmost patience, making me an example to those who would come to believe in him for eternal life.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_timothy/1.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Howbeit for this cause he had mercy on me, that in me first Jesus Christ may shew forth all patience, for a pattern to those who should hereafter believe in him to life everlasting. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_timothy/1.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> But because of this he showed me mercy, that Yeshua The Messiah might show in me all his longsuffering, as the example of those who are going to believe in him unto eternal life.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_timothy/1.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> But for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all long-suffering, for an example to those who might afterward believe on him in order to life eternal. <a href="/godbey/1_timothy/1.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> but on this account I obtained mercy, in order that Jesus Christ might in me the chief show forth all longsuffering, for an example of those about to believe on him unto eternal life. <a href="/haweis/1_timothy/1.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> But for this end obtained I mercy, that in me, the chief, Jesus Christ might shew forth all long-suffering, for a pattern to those who should after believe in him unto eternal life. <a href="/mace/1_timothy/1.htm">Mace New Testament</a> however I obtained mercy, that Jesus Christ might demonstrate the greatness of his clemency, by making me an eminent instance of it to those who should hereafter believe in him, in order to eternal life. <a href="/wey/1_timothy/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> But mercy was shown me in order that in me as the foremost of sinners Christ Jesus might display the fulness of His long-suffering patience as an example to encourage those who would afterwards be resting their faith on Him with a view to the Life of the Ages. <a href="/worrell/1_timothy/1.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> but for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me, as chief, Christ Jesus might show forth all His longsuffering for an example to those about to believe on Him unto eternal life. <a href="/worsley/1_timothy/1.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> But for this end I obtained mercy, that in me a chief sinner Jesus Christ might display his long-suffering, for an example to those who should afterwards believe on Him to eternal life. <a href="/parallel/1_timothy/1-16.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EkcLX59OJyU?start=143" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_timothy/1.htm">God's Grace to Paul</a> …15This is a trustworthy saying, worthy of full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst. 16<a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">But</a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: dia (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.">for this very reason</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: touto (DPro-ANS) -- This; he, she, it. "></a> <a href="/greek/1653.htm" title="1653: ēleēthēn (V-AIP-1S) -- To pity, have mercy on. From eleos; to compassionate.">I was shown mercy,</a> <a href="/greek/2443.htm" title="2443: hina (Conj) -- In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.">so that</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: emoi (PPro-D1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">me,</a> <a href="/greek/4413.htm" title="4413: prōtō (Adj-DMS) -- First, before, principal, most important. Contracted superlative of pro; foremost.">the worst of sinners,</a> <a href="/greek/5547.htm" title="5547: Christos (N-NMS) -- Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.">Christ</a> <a href="/greek/2424.htm" title="2424: Iēsous (N-NMS) -- Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites.">Jesus</a> <a href="/greek/1731.htm" title="1731: endeixētai (V-ASM-3S) -- To show forth, prove. From en and deiknuo; to indicate.">might display</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">His</a> <a href="/greek/537.htm" title="537: hapasan (Adj-AFS) -- All, the whole, altogether. Absolutely all or every one.">perfect</a> <a href="/greek/3115.htm" title="3115: makrothymian (N-AFS) -- Patience, forbearance, longsuffering. From the same as makrothumos; longanimity, i.e. forbearance or fortitude.">patience</a> <a href="/greek/4314.htm" title="4314: pros (Prep) -- To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.">as</a> <a href="/greek/5296.htm" title="5296: hypotypōsin (N-AFS) -- A pattern, example; a form, sample. From a compound of hupo and a derivative of tupos; typification under, i.e. a sketch for imitation.">an example</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">to those who</a> <a href="/greek/3195.htm" title="3195: mellontōn (V-PPA-GMP) -- A strengthened form of melo; to intend, i.e. Be about to be, do, or suffer something.">would</a> <a href="/greek/4100.htm" title="4100: pisteuein (V-PNA) -- From pistis; to have faith, i.e. Credit; by implication, to entrust.">believe</a> <a href="/greek/1909.htm" title="1909: ep’ (Prep) -- On, to, against, on the basis of, at. ">in</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autō (PPro-DM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">Him</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">for</a> <a href="/greek/166.htm" title="166: aiōnion (Adj-AFS) -- From aion; perpetual.">eternal</a> <a href="/greek/2222.htm" title="2222: zōēn (N-AFS) -- Life, both of physical (present) and of spiritual (particularly future) existence. From zao; life.">life.</a> 17Now to the King eternal, immortal, and invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/acts/9-15.htm">Acts 9:15</a> “Go!” said the Lord. “This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings, and before the people of Israel. <a href="/1_corinthians/15-9.htm">1 Corinthians 15:9-10</a> For I am the least of the apostles and am unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. / But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not in vain. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. <a href="/ephesians/2-7.htm">Ephesians 2:7</a> in order that in the coming ages He might display the surpassing riches of His grace, demonstrated by His kindness to us in Christ Jesus. <a href="/2_peter/3-9.htm">2 Peter 3:9</a> The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance. <a href="/romans/5-20.htm">Romans 5:20-21</a> The law came in so that the trespass would increase; but where sin increased, grace increased all the more, / so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. <a href="/titus/3-4.htm">Titus 3:4-7</a> But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, / He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. / This is the Spirit He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, ... <a href="/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1</a> Therefore, since God in His mercy has given us this ministry, we do not lose heart. <a href="/galatians/1-13.htm">Galatians 1:13-16</a> For you have heard of my former way of life in Judaism, how severely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it. / I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers. / But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by His grace, was pleased ... <a href="/philippians/3-6.htm">Philippians 3:6-8</a> as to zeal, persecuting the church; as to righteousness in the law, faultless. / But whatever was gain to me I count as loss for the sake of Christ. / More than that, I count all things as loss compared to the surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ <a href="/1_corinthians/7-25.htm">1 Corinthians 7:25</a> Now about virgins, I have no command from the Lord, but I give a judgment as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy. <a href="/romans/11-30.htm">Romans 11:30-32</a> Just as you who formerly disobeyed God have now received mercy through their disobedience, / so they too have now disobeyed, in order that they too may now receive mercy through the mercy shown to you. / For God has consigned everyone to disobedience so that He may have mercy on everyone. <a href="/2_timothy/1-13.htm">2 Timothy 1:13-14</a> Hold on to the pattern of sound teaching you have heard from me, with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. / Guard the treasure entrusted to you, with the help of the Holy Spirit who dwells in us. <a href="/matthew/9-13.htm">Matthew 9:13</a> But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” <a href="/luke/19-10.htm">Luke 19:10</a> For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” <a href="/john/3-16.htm">John 3:16-17</a> For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. / For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>However, for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all long-suffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.for this.<a href="/numbers/23-3.htm">Numbers 23:3</a> And Balaam said unto Balak, Stand by thy burnt offering, and I will go: peradventure the LORD will come to meet me: and whatsoever he sheweth me I will tell thee. And he went to an high place.<a href="/psalms/25-11.htm">Psalm 25:11</a> For thy name's sake, O LORD, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great.<a href="/isaiah/1-18.htm">Isaiah 1:18</a> Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.I obtained.<a href="/1_timothy/1-13.htm">1 Timothy 1:13</a> Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.<a href="/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1</a> Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;all.<a href="/exodus/34-8.htm">Exodus 34:8</a> And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped.<a href="/romans/2-4.htm">Romans 2:4,5</a> Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? … <a href="/1_peter/3-20.htm">1 Peter 3:20</a> Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.for a.<a href="/2_chronicles/33-9.htm">2 Chronicles 33:9-13,19</a> So Manasseh made Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to err, and to do worse than the heathen, whom the LORD had destroyed before the children of Israel… <a href="/isaiah/55-7.htm">Isaiah 55:7</a> Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.<a href="/luke/7-47.htm">Luke 7:47</a> Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.believe.<a href="/john/3-15.htm">John 3:15,16,36</a> That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life… <a href="/john/5-24.htm">John 5:24</a> Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.<a href="/john/6-40.htm">John 6:40,54</a> And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_thessalonians/4-17.htm">Afterwards</a> <a href="/colossians/1-26.htm">Ages</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-12.htm">Believe</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-4.htm">Cause</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-15.htm">Chief</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-15.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-5.htm">Clear</a> <a href="/romans/3-26.htm">Demonstrate</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-10.htm">Display</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-17.htm">Encourage</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-9.htm">Ensample</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-16.htm">Eternal</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-16.htm">Everlasting</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-9.htm">Example</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-15.htm">Faith</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-15.htm">First</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-15.htm">Foremost</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-4.htm">Forth</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-14.htm">Found</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-14.htm">Fulness</a> <a href="/john/14-30.htm">Hereafter</a> <a href="/philippians/4-14.htm">Howbeit</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-13.htm">However</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-15.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-7.htm">Life</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-14.htm">Longsuffering</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-13.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-13.htm">Obtained</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-9.htm">Order</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-5.htm">Patience</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-9.htm">Pattern</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-24.htm">Perfect</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-11.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-10.htm">Receive</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-20.htm">Resting</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/1-9.htm">Shew</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-12.htm">Show</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-13.htm">Shown</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-15.htm">Sinners</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-19.htm">Unlimited</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/1-11.htm">View</a> <a href="/luke/11-26.htm">Worst</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/hebrews/3-5.htm">Afterwards</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-17.htm">Ages</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-3.htm">Believe</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-6.htm">Cause</a> <a href="/hebrews/3-1.htm">Chief</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-5.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-19.htm">Clear</a> <a href="/romans/3-25.htm">Demonstrate</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-17.htm">Display</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-2.htm">Encourage</a> <a href="/titus/2-7.htm">Ensample</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-17.htm">Eternal</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-16.htm">Everlasting</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-12.htm">Example</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-19.htm">Faith</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-1.htm">First</a> <a href="/genesis/32-17.htm">Foremost</a> <a href="/hebrews/1-14.htm">Forth</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-10.htm">Found</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-11.htm">Fulness</a> <a href="/revelation/1-19.htm">Hereafter</a> <a href="/hebrews/3-16.htm">Howbeit</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-19.htm">However</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-5.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-8.htm">Life</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-2.htm">Longsuffering</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-2.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/hebrews/1-4.htm">Obtained</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-18.htm">Order</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-11.htm">Patience</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-12.htm">Pattern</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-2.htm">Perfect</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-6.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-11.htm">Receive</a> <a href="/titus/1-2.htm">Resting</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-4.htm">Shew</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-4.htm">Show</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-10.htm">Shown</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-20.htm">Sinners</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-19.htm">Unlimited</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-1.htm">View</a> <a href="/exodus/9-18.htm">Worst</a><div class="vheading2">1 Timothy 1</div>1. <a href="/1_timothy/1-1.htm">Paul declares Timothy is faithful to the charge which was given him at his going to Macedonia.</a> 5. <a href="/1_timothy/1-5.htm">The right use and end of the law.</a> 11. <a href="/1_timothy/1-11.htm">Paul's calling to be an apostle;</a> 20. <a href="/1_timothy/1-20.htm">and the disobedience or Hymenaeus and Alexander.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 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href="/study/chapters/1_timothy/1.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>But for this very reason I was shown mercy Paul acknowledges that his past as a persecutor of Christians was met with divine mercy. This highlights the transformative power of God's grace. The concept of mercy is central to the New Testament, emphasizing God's willingness to forgive and restore. In the broader biblical context, mercy is a recurring theme, seen in God's dealings with Israel and in Jesus' ministry (e.g., <a href="/matthew/9-13.htm">Matthew 9:13</a>).so that in me, the worst of sinners Paul refers to himself as the "worst of sinners," underscoring his humility and recognition of his past transgressions. This self-identification serves to magnify the grace of God. It echoes his earlier statements in <a href="/1_corinthians/15-9.htm">1 Corinthians 15:9</a> and <a href="/ephesians/3-8.htm">Ephesians 3:8</a>, where he describes himself as the least of the apostles and the least of all the saints, respectively.Christ Jesus might display His perfect patience The patience of Christ is a testament to His enduring love and willingness to wait for sinners to repent. This patience is not passive but active, as seen in Christ's interactions with His disciples and others during His earthly ministry. The patience of God is also evident in the Old Testament, where He repeatedly calls Israel to repentance despite their rebellion (e.g., <a href="/nehemiah/9-30.htm">Nehemiah 9:30</a>).as an example to those who would believe in Him for eternal life Paul's transformation serves as a powerful example for future believers, illustrating that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. This phrase connects to the broader biblical narrative of redemption and the promise of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, as seen in <a href="/john/3-16.htm">John 3:16</a> and <a href="/romans/6-23.htm">Romans 6:23</a>. The concept of eternal life is central to Christian doctrine, offering hope and assurance of salvation.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul (formerly Saul of Tarsus)</a> The apostle who wrote the letter to Timothy. Once a persecutor of Christians, he became a devoted follower of Christ and a key figure in the early Church. 2. <a href="/topical/t/timothy.htm">Timothy</a> A young pastor and protégé of Paul, to whom this letter is addressed. Timothy was entrusted with leading the church in Ephesus. 3. <a href="/topical/c/christ_jesus.htm">Christ Jesus</a> The central figure of Christianity, whose life, death, and resurrection are the foundation of the faith. In this verse, His perfect patience is highlighted. 4. <a href="/topical/e/ephesus.htm">Ephesus</a> The city where Timothy was leading the church. It was a major center of early Christianity and a place where Paul had previously ministered. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_early_church.htm">The Early Church</a> The community of believers in the first century who were spreading the message of Jesus Christ throughout the Roman Empire.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_transformative_power_of_mercy.htm">The Transformative Power of Mercy</a> God's mercy can transform even the "worst of sinners" into vessels of His grace and purpose. Paul's life is a testament to the radical change that God's mercy can bring. <a href="/topical/c/christ's_perfect_patience.htm">Christ's Perfect Patience</a> Jesus' patience is perfect and serves as an example for believers. It encourages us to be patient with others, reflecting Christ's character in our interactions. <a href="/topical/a/an_example_for_believers.htm">An Example for Believers</a> Paul's transformation serves as an example for all who would believe. It reassures us that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace and that our past does not define our future in Christ. <a href="/topical/t/the_call_to_share_our_testimony.htm">The Call to Share Our Testimony</a> Like Paul, believers are called to share their testimonies of how Christ has worked in their lives. This can inspire and encourage others to seek and trust in Jesus for eternal life. <a href="/topical/l/living_with_eternal_perspective.htm">Living with Eternal Perspective</a> Understanding that our lives are examples to others, we should live with an eternal perspective, focusing on how our actions and words can lead others to faith in Christ.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_timothy_1.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Timothy 1</a> <a href="/q/what_defines_an_acrostic_poem.htm">What did Paul mean by 'chief of sinners'?</a> <a href="/q/what_did_paul_mean_by_'chief_sinner'.htm">What did Paul mean by "chief of sinners"?</a> <a href="/q/how_is_paul_'worst_sinner'_yet_righteous.htm">How does Paul calling himself “the worst of sinners” in 1 Timothy 1:15 align with the idea that Christians are transformed and made righteous?</a> <a href="/q/is_god_merciful.htm">Is God merciful?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_timothy/1.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(16)Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy.--In spite of this deep consciousness of his guilt, faith and confidence in his own salvation seem never to have wavered. He speaks of this with all certainty, and proceeds to tell us with great clearness why Christ saved him, the chief of sinners.That in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering.--If Christ could show mercy to him, surely in after times the greatest of sinners need never doubt the Redeemer's power and will to save. St. Paul's conversion foretold many a patient waiting on the part of the Lord, much long-suffering, which would never hurry to punish His enemies, but which would tarry long, in the hope of the sinner repenting while it was yet time.For a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him.--Men were to learn that such conversions as his were to be looked forward to as no uncommon occurrences--conversion of blasphemers, of persecutors, whom the Lord would tarry long for, till they, too, coming to the knowledge of the truth, should acknowledge Him. Thus to all sinners was St. Paul a pattern--an example of the Lord's long-suffering, of His patient waiting. His gracious Master had dealt with him like a king, who, when judging the case of a rebel city, pardons the chief rebel. If God would redeem Saul the persecutor, none need despair of finding mercy.To life everlasting.--And the goal--which lay before these poor redeemed sinners, who, like St. Paul, in faith and loving trust in Jesus had found peace and acceptance--was eternal life.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_timothy/1.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 16. - As chief for first, A.V.; might Jesus Christ for Jesus Christ might, A.V.; his long-suffering for long-suffering, A.V.; an ensample of for a pattern to, A.V.; unto eternal life for to life everlasting, A.V. That in me as chief; rather, as A.V., first; i.e. both in order of time, and in respect also of the greatness of the sin forgiven. Show forth (ἐνδείξηται; see <a href="/2_timothy/4-14.htm">2 Timothy 4:14</a>, note). All his long-suffering; more properly, as Alford, the whole long-suffering; i.e. the entirety of long-suffering - all that was possible, every kind and degree of long-suffering. Ὁ πᾶς with the substantive denotes the whole of a thing: τὸν πάντα χρόνον, "the whole time" (<a href="/acts/20-18.htm">Acts 20:18</a>); ὁ πᾶς νόμος, "the whole Law" (<a href="/galatians/5-14.htm">Galatians 5:14</a>). So in the two examples from Polybius, τῆς πάσης ἀλογιστίας and τῆς πάσης ἀτοπίας "the utmost unreasonableness," and "the utmost strangeness," the construction is exactly the same. Long-suffering (μακροθυμια); more literally, long-animity; very frequent both in the New Testament and in the LXX. The adjective μακρόθυμος (LXX.) is a translation of the Hebrew קְצַר אַפַיִם, "long," or "slow to anger," to which the opposite is אֶרֶך, ὀξύθυμος (LXX.), "short to anger," i.e. hasty, passionate. The verb μακροθυμέω also occurs frequently, both in the New Testament and in the LXX.: Ἡ ἀγάπη μακροθυμεῖ, "Charity suffereth long" (<a href="/1_corinthians/13-4.htm">1 Corinthians 13:4</a>). For an example (πρὸς ὑποτύπωσιν). The word only occurs in the New Testament here and <a href="/2_timothy/1-12.htm">2 Timothy 1:12</a>; but both it and the verb ὑποτυπόω are good classical words. The meaning of ὑπότύπωσις is "a sketch" or "outline," and hence a "pattern." This pattern is spoken of as being the property of, being for the use of, them which should hereafter believe. Just as the workman looks at his plan, or outline, by which he is to work, so those future believers would see in Christ's dealings with St. Paul the exact pattern of the long-suffering which they might expect for themselves. Others take ὑποτύπωσις in the sense of "instruction," but this sense cannot be made good. Believe on him unto eternal life. These words hang together. The particular force of πιστεύειν ἐπ αὐτῷ, "found in the New Testament only here and <a href="/romans/9-33.htm">Romans 9:33</a>; <a href="/romans/10-11.htm">Romans 10:11</a>; and <a href="/1_peter/2-6.htm">1 Peter 2:6</a>" (Huther) - as distinguished from the other constructions of to πιστεύειν - is "rest," "lean on" (Ellicott). St. Paul thus incidentally affirms that his own faith rested upon Jesus Christ in the full assurance of attaining to eternal life (see <a href="/1_timothy/6-12.htm">1 Timothy 6:12</a>; <a href="/2_timothy/1-1.htm">2 Timothy 1:1, 2</a>). <a href="/commentaries/1_timothy/1-16.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>But ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. for this very reason διὰ (dia) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1223.htm">Strong's 1223: </a> A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through. I was shown mercy, ἠλεήθην (ēleēthēn) Verb - Aorist Indicative Passive - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1653.htm">Strong's 1653: </a> To pity, have mercy on. From eleos; to compassionate. so that ἵνα (hina) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2443.htm">Strong's 2443: </a> In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. me, ἐμοὶ (emoi) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. [the] worst [ of sinners ], πρώτῳ (prōtō) Adjective - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4413.htm">Strong's 4413: </a> First, before, principal, most important. Contracted superlative of pro; foremost. Christ Χριστὸς (Christos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5547.htm">Strong's 5547: </a> Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. Jesus Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2424.htm">Strong's 2424: </a> Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites. might display ἐνδείξηται (endeixētai) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Middle - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1731.htm">Strong's 1731: </a> To show forth, prove. From en and deiknuo; to indicate. [His] τὴν (tēn) Article - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. perfect ἅπασαν (hapasan) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_537.htm">Strong's 537: </a> All, the whole, altogether. Absolutely all or every one. patience, μακροθυμίαν (makrothymian) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3115.htm">Strong's 3115: </a> Patience, forbearance, longsuffering. From the same as makrothumos; longanimity, i.e. forbearance or fortitude. as πρὸς (pros) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_4314.htm">Strong's 4314: </a> To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward. an example ὑποτύπωσιν (hypotypōsin) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5296.htm">Strong's 5296: </a> A pattern, example; a form, sample. From a compound of hupo and a derivative of tupos; typification under, i.e. a sketch for imitation. to those who τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. would μελλόντων (mellontōn) Verb - Present Participle Active - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3195.htm">Strong's 3195: </a> A strengthened form of melo; to intend, i.e. Be about to be, do, or suffer something. believe πιστεύειν (pisteuein) Verb - Present Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_4100.htm">Strong's 4100: </a> From pistis; to have faith, i.e. Credit; by implication, to entrust. in ἐπ’ (ep’) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1909.htm">Strong's 1909: </a> On, to, against, on the basis of, at. Him αὐτῷ (autō) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. for εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. eternal αἰώνιον (aiōnion) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_166.htm">Strong's 166: </a> From aion; perpetual. life. ζωὴν (zōēn) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2222.htm">Strong's 2222: </a> Life, both of physical (present) and of spiritual (particularly future) existence. From zao; life. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_timothy/1-16.htm">1 Timothy 1:16 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_timothy/1-16.htm">1 Timothy 1:16 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_timothy/1-16.htm">1 Timothy 1:16 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_timothy/1-16.htm">1 Timothy 1:16 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_timothy/1-16.htm">1 Timothy 1:16 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_timothy/1-16.htm">1 Timothy 1:16 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_timothy/1-16.htm">1 Timothy 1:16 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_timothy/1-16.htm">1 Timothy 1:16 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_timothy/1-16.htm">1 Timothy 1:16 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_timothy/1-16.htm">1 Timothy 1:16 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-16.htm">NT Letters: 1 Timothy 1:16 However for this cause I obtained mercy (1 Tim. 1Ti iTi 1tim i Tm) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_timothy/1-15.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Timothy 1:15"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Timothy 1:15" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_timothy/1-17.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Timothy 1:17"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Timothy 1:17" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>