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Even if we are convinced about a thing, it is still quite difficult at times to convince someone else. Though, this problem is nothing new. Jesus Christ Himself had to experience often, that His listeners did not understand Him. In love and, as I mean, also with directness He tried to bring the Kingdom of Heaven close to them. We read, that His contempories, in spite of accurate and sound parables and pictures, had not understood Him. “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God.” (1 Cor. 2:14)
In our text here we experience Apostle Paul’s attempt to write into the heart of Timothy, his helper, emphatically the greatness of God and the redemption- deed of His Son. Also in many newer bible translations one can always read at the same place, it is with certainty that … for Paul it was clear, that it needed such strengthening confirmation. He knew that people would react to affirmations with questions like: how come, what for, why for?

Apostle Paul goes a specific way, which commends imitating. He names himself and the mercy, which he, the great sinner received, as a sound example of the great love of God. Thoroughly convinced he writes, that Christ Jesus of this reason had come into the world to save sinners, of whom he was the greatest (chief). This grace, evidenced to all, by the change of Saul to Paul was most precious to Paul. This happened for an example for others as well, not only for his own personal benefit. Unmistakingly, he shows there with the way to eternal life. The Apostle Paul was truly a significant writer and preacher. We brothers are oft in need to utter to the right praise for God. By reading and inner digesting the last verse of our Word, one could nearly become envious. Here is the norm. Here, in faith and in deep reverence is the excellence and greatness of God praised. At the same time, we are reminded, that this should be done into all eternity.

Now a few questions, which I ask myself and which somehow should be for everyone as well:
Wherewith do I witness of the godly authority that is sending me?
How do I deal with my own failure, weaknesses?
Do I confess that salvation and redemption were given to me?
Do I know, that with my redemption a sign was set before me?
Can I be an example to my fellow-man? How?
Do I remain personally steadfast in my inner character, to praise God? Do I praise God in unity with believers who are entrusted to me?
Let us serve the Lord, our Heavenly Father, in reverence.
Following words from our text-word after the translation “Hope is for all”.