Grace & Mercy Change Everything - Pastor Annie Bullard
Key Scripture- 1 Timothy 1:12–17
“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him, even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief. Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus.
This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”—and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.” 1 Timothy 1:12-17 NLT
No matter who you are or what you’ve done, God’s grace & mercy can transform your life.
What is Grace?
Grace is God’s unearned favor and love toward us.
Unmerited
Transforming
Constant
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” — Ephesians 2:8
What is MERCY?
Mercy is compassion or kindness shown to someone who deserves punishment or judgment. In scripture, it’s God choosing not to give the penalty that’s deserved, out of love and compassion.
Different from Grace
Constant
“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in mercy.” — Psalm 103:8
Grace gives you want you don’t deserve.
Mercy doesn’t give you what you do deserve.
Grace gives, mercy spares — both come from God’s love.
“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him, even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief. Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus.
This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”—and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.” 1 Timothy 1:12-17 NLT
Paul’s Past — From Lost to Found: 1 Timothy 1:12-13
God’s Power — Not Ours: 1 Timothy 1:12-14
Purpose in the Process: 1 Timothy 1:15-16
A Life of Praise: 1 Timothy 1:17
Paul’s Past — From Lost to Found
God can use even the worst moments of anyone’s past. There is hope for anyone.
YOUR mistakes, regrets, and past didn’t disqualify YOU.
God doesn’t waste our messes; He redeems them.
God’s Power — Not Ours
Transformation happens and opportunities arise because of God’s grace and mercy, not our effort.
“Even though I used to ________, God has given me the strength to ________.” He appointed me and considered me worthy.
Strength for service to our King comes from God alone, not self-reliance, good works, our best behavior or our past.
Purpose in the Process
God gives your life a purpose — even through your failures.
Grace & mercy isn’t just about being saved — it’s about being sent.
A Life of Praise
Transformation leads to worship and testimony.
“No matter where you came from, what you’ve been through, or how many times life tried to break you — God is still able to rewrite your story. I’ve walked through things I never thought I’d survive, but even with my history, I still found my way back to the Lord. He never stopped protecting me. He never stopped providing. If He can lift me up, heal me, and guide me through the storms, He can do the same for you. Your path isn’t too messy, your past isn’t too heavy, and your future isn’t too far gone. Keep walking. Keep trusting. God’s hands are on you daily.”— The legend formerly known as ‘Ruby Rose’
Take-Aways:
• Past: Don’t let guilt, shame or mistakes define you.
• Present: Lean on God’s grace and mercy daily — it gives strength.
• Future: Step into purpose and let your story impact others.
“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners…” 1 Timothy 1:15