⁹ For I am the least of the apostles^(A) and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted^(B) the church of God.^{(C) 10} But by the grace^(D) of God I am what I am, and his grace to me^(E) was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them^(F)—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.^{(G) 11} Whether, then, it is I or they,^(H) this is what we preach, and this is what you believed.

The Lord’s Grace to Paul

¹² I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength,^(A) that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service.^{(B) 13} Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor^(C) and a violent man, I was shown mercy^(D) because I acted in ignorance and unbelief.^{(E) 14} The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly,^(F) along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.^(G)

¹⁵ Here is a trustworthy saying^(H) that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners^(I)—of whom I am the worst. ¹⁶ But for that very reason I was shown mercy^(J) so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience^(K) as an example for those who would believe^(L) in him and receive eternal life.^{(M) 17} Now to the King^(N) eternal, immortal,^(O) invisible,^(P) the only God,^(Q) be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.^(R)