READ 1 Timothy 1

1 Timothy 1:15, "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."

People have, since the founding of our nation, died for our freedom, and may we forever be grateful.   But more importantly, may we never forget the greatest sacrifice made, which was Jesus laying down His life for us that we might have our sins forgiven. 

Paul speaks of the faithfulness or trustworthiness of what he is about to say and expresses our need to receive the message. "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners..." Do you believe this statement? Have you received the trustworthiness of this statement? Have you placed your faith and trust in Jesus as the One who laid down His life for your sins?  

• “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13)

• John 10:18, "No man taketh it (Jesus' life) from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father."

No one took Jesus’ life from Him. It wasn't stolen. He wasn't overpowered.  Jesus Christ, in His love for you and me, voluntarily laid down His life to be crucified, scourged, and mocked.  This is the greatest act of love known to man, "For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."  Romans 5:7-8
Thank you, Lord, for laying down your life for us!  Without Jesus’ great sacrifice we would be eternally lost and doomed to spend eternity in Hell.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  Why did Jesus Christ come into the world?

2.  How did Jesus Christ demonstrate His great love for us?

3.  Was it possible for man to take Jesus’ life?  Explain.

4.  Have you received Jesus’ sacrifice for your sins?  If yes, where were you when you received Christ?