I Am the Chief of Sinners

The first section of the sermon presents the central theme: this is a trustworthy saying that Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners, and Paul himself is the chief of sinners. Nevertheless, because of the gravity of his own sin, Paul received God's mercy, and Christ displayed His complete patience toward him to serve as an example for those who would later believe in Him and receive eternal life. This is not self-deprecation on Paul's part, but a clear demonstration of God's intervening grace.

The second section develops the theological point through Paul's extraordinary life as an apostle. He confesses that he is the least of all apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle because he previously persecuted the Church of God. Yet grace was given to him to proclaim the unsearchable riches of Christ to the Gentiles. Paul also recounts the sufferings he endured: imprisonment, beatings, shipwreck, dangers from many sources, and daily concern for the churches. Despite this, he can say that when anyone is weak, he is weak, and when anyone stumbles, he is deeply moved, demonstrating profound compassion for those he shepherds.

The third section applies the message to the practical life of the congregation through trustworthy sayings that are repeated many times. Those who desire to be overseers must understand that godliness has value for all things, with promise for both the present life and the life to come. God's grace is revealed not because of our righteous deeds, but because of His mercy. Those who follow Paul must imitate him as he imitates Christ, guarding themselves and shepherding the Church of God which He purchased with His own blood. The hope of all believers is to be filled with all the fullness of God, with Christ dwelling in their hearts through faith.