1 Timothy 1:17 – Praise to God

It is important to note that in I Timothy 1:15, Paul says that “Christ Jesus came into the world.” The fact that He came into the world shows that He existed before His incarnation – that is, before He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary, He existed. Thus, when Paul, after recounting his own salvation by the grace of God, breaks forth into praise in verse 17, this praise includes Jesus Christ as a Person of the Godhead.

Paul’s praise of the LORD teaches several things about our God: 1) He is the King of Ages – the One who rules over all things, including time itself. 2) He is immortal – the term can mean “deathless” or “incorruptible.” In other words, God is not subject to time (which He created), or decay or change of any kind. He is immutable (changeless) in His nature. 3) He is the only (or only-wise) God – the All-knowing Creator of all things. There is no other god. 4) Honor and glory belong to Him forever.

Receiving salvation by God’s grace causes the believer to break forth in praise and love of God for who He really is. May all who are saved reflect on their salvation and give Him the praise due His Name.

Questions
1. Why is it important to know that Christ Jesus “came into” the world?
2. What does salvation cause the believer to do?
3. Name four things Paul tells us about God in verse 17.

Prayer Points
1. Pray for the preaching and hearing of God’s Word tomorrow.
2. Use prayer points from your congregation.
3. Pray for family matters.