​Introduction:

         1. In our lesson we are examining 4 passages that have several things in common.
             a. They were all written by the apostle Paul.
             b. They were all written to evangelists: Timothy (3) and Titus (1).
             c. Each one is referred to as "a faithful saying."
         2. By referring to these statements as "faithful sayings," Paul was not implying that his other writings are
             not faithful.
         3. We learn from 1 Corinthians 14:37 that his writings are the commandments of the Lord.
         4. By referring to these statements as "faithful sayings," Paul was emphasizing the importance of the
             principles being taught in these passages.
         5. Since these passages are so important, we must study them carefully.

Discussion:

I.           (1 Timothy 1:15) JESUS  CHRIST  CAME  INTO  THE  WORLD  TO  SAVE  SINNERS

         A. In the context (vs.12-17), Paul was thanking God for the change that had taken place in his life.
             1. Paul had been an evil person at one time.
             2. However, even though he considered himself to be "chief of sinners," God had saved him.
         B. Paul had been saved because of what is revealed in vs.15.
             1. Jesus came into the world to make salvation from sin available.
             2. It cost Jesus His life to provide this salvation.
         C. This faithful saying is "worthy of all acceptation" [deserves our full acceptance].
         D. Our next faithful saying shows how we accept it.

II.          (2 Timothy 2:11) IN  ORDER  TO  LIVE  WITH  CHRIST,  WE  MUST  BE  DEAD  WITH  HIM

         A. Dying and living with Christ are explained in Romans 6:3-11.
         B. This is what Paul had done to be saved (Acts 22:16; 9:18).
         C. We learn from:
             1. the first faithful saying that Jesus came into the world to save sinners
             2. the second faithful saying that those who die with Him will be saved.
         D. The other 2 faithful sayings are directed to those who have been saved.

III.         (1 Timothy 4:7-9) WHEN  WE  ARE  SAVED,  WE  ARE  TO  EXERCISE  OURSELVES  UNTO  GODLINESS

         A. A contrast is made between physical exercise and godliness.
             1. There is some profit associated with physical exercise [its benefits are limited to this present life].
             2. However, "godliness" [doing things that please God] is profitable unto all things -- it holds promise
                 for the present life, and it holds promise for the life to come.
         B. Godliness is so important that we are to follow after it (1 Timothy 6:11).
         C. This saying is also "worthy of all acceptation" [deserves our full acceptance].
         D. Very closely associated with this faithful saying is the fourth one.

IV.         (Titus 3:8) THOSE  WHO  HAVE  BEEN  SAVED  ARE  TO  BE  CAREFUL  TO  MAINTAIN  GOOD  WORKS

         A. Good works are valuable -- they are good, and they are "profitable unto men."
         B. The Bible places special emphasis on Christians doing good works.
             1. (Titus 2:14) Christians are to be "zealous of good works."
             2. (Titus 3:14) Good works will keep Christians from being "unfruitful."

Conclusion:

         1. These passages we have studied deal with matters of utmost importance.
         2. As we go through the new year, let us practice the principles that are taught in these "faithful sayings."