Additionally, sound doctrine will create people in the image of Christ (Rom. 8:29; Col. 1:10) and allow them to be examples that others can look to (vs. 16). Paul says, “However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life.” Wayne Jackson summarized the point of this passage very well.
But Paul’s point of emphasis here is God’s providential selection of him as an irrefutable example of Heaven’s love for man. If salvation was offered to the world’s worse rogue, the bloodthirsty Saul, surely the patience of Christ shines forth as an example, indeed an incentive, to all who subsequently should believe on him (i.e., they are on the verge of committing themselves to a life of trust) with a view to life eternal (i.e., everlasting communion with God).
That the blood of Christ was powerful enough to save the apostle Paul should stand as a constant reminder that it continues to be powerful enough to save anyone who is willing to obey the gospel, regardless of the sin he or she has committed. The unadulterated Word of God will completely transform our lives so that we may practice righteousness (Rom. 6:15-23) and live in such a way that we, like the apostle Paul, can say to others, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). Unhealthy doctrine cannot accomplish that.
When we consider the marvelous power found in sound teaching (1 Tim. 1:12-17) versus the devastating impact of unsound teaching (1 Tim. 1:3-11) it is no wonder that Paul would end this section with a marvelous expression of praise to God. God is “King eternal,” the self-existing ruler of the Universe. He is “immortal,” that is He is immune to decay or death; “invisible,” unable to be seen with human eyes; and He is the “God who alone is wise,” meaning there are no others gods beside Him and His wisdom is unmatchable (cf. Rom. 11:33). Our great God is worthy of high esteem (honor) as we humble ourselves before His great power and majesty (glory). Why do we place such great importance on sound doctrine? Why does God emphasize its importance? Because He has crafted a system of teaching (cf. Eph. 4:5) that, when taught and obeyed faithfully, has the power to save our souls.