1 Timothy 1:12-17

12I thank Christ Jesus our Lord that he has trusted me and has appointed me to do his work with the strength he has given me.

13In the past I cursed him, persecuted him, and acted arrogantly toward him. However, I was treated with mercy because I acted ignorantly in my unbelief.

14Our Lord was very kind  to me. Through his kindness he brought me to faith and gave me the love that Christ Jesus shows people.

15This is a statement that can be trusted and deserves complete acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, and I am the foremost sinner.

16However, 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.

17Worship and glory belong forever to the eternal king, the immortal, invisible, and only God. Amen.