Business card

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God our Savior and the Lord Jesus Christ . . . .   — 1 Timothy 1:1

In some cultures, the title below your name on your business card is very important. It identifies your rank. The way you are treated depends on your title as compared with others around you.

If Paul had a business card, it would have identified him as an “apostle” (1 Tim. 1:1), meaning “sent one.” He used this title not out of pride but out of wonder. He didn’t earn that position; it was “by the commandment of God our Savior and the Lord Jesus Christ.” In other words, his was not a human but a divine appointment.

Paul had formerly been a “blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man” (v.13). He said that he considered himself to be the “chief” of sinners (v.15). But because of God’s mercy, he was now an apostle, one to whom “the King eternal” (v.17) had committed the glorious gospel and whom He had sent out to share that gospel.

What is more amazing is that like the apostle Paul we are all sent out by the King of kings to the world (Matt. 28:18-20; Acts 1:8). Let’s recognize with humility that we don’t deserve such a commission either. It is our privilege to represent Him and His eternal truth in word and in deed each day to all around us.                 — C. P. Hia

Let us go forth, as called of God,

Redeemed by Jesus’ precious blood;

His love to show, His life to live,

His message speak, His mercy give.

— Whittle

READ: 1 Timothy 1:1,12-17

God gave you a message to share. Don’t keep it to yourself!

The Bible in one year:

• 2 Chronicles 34-36; John 19:1-22