Wrong Verses Right: 1 Timothy 1:15 KJV

“Jesus came into the world to save sinners of whom I am chief.”

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. ~1 Timothy 1:15 KJV

Wrong Interpretation:

Those, who claim that it is acceptable to be an imperfect Christian, recite this scripture faithfully to justify that Paul was a chief professing sinner, therefore, it is okay for us to be chief professing sinners too— who will never be perfect, but are saved in our imperfection.

Right Interpretation:

Let’s look at this scripture again.  First, Paul says that this is a faithful saying and worthy of acceptance.  Then he tells us that Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners, but he says he is the chief of sinners.  Paul, formerly known as Saul, used to kill Christians. His point was that Christ came to save sinners; the worst of them, a chief sinner like himself.

Then, right after this scripture, he continues to let us all know that Jesus did this for him so that he would be an example showing forth all longsuffering (i.e. Patience, endurance, perseverance) as a pattern (following Christ’s doctrine), which is an example for all Christians to follow.

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. ~1 Timothy 1:16 KJV

We know, through the New Testament scriptures, that as we follow Paul’s pattern through the foundation he laid, which is Christ, Christ leads us to perfection here on earth to be ready for His second coming.

Therefore, Paul used his confession of being a “chief” sinner to magnify how Christ changes us into saints.  We continue to follow Him through a pattern of godliness.

Read this parable about the “unprofitable servant.”