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)

¹³ Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor^(A) and a violent man, I was shown mercy^(B) because I acted in ignorance and unbelief.^(C)

¹⁵ Here is a trustworthy saying^(A) that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners^(B)—of whom I am the worst.