In a day of fragile self-esteem and uncertain identity, we have become loath to speak of people using the category of sin.
Paul shows no hesitation in that regard - least of all in reference to himself! He claims top spot among sinners.
Paul does so to make clear that there is no one beyond the reach of the grace of God. If even he, the chief of sinners, can become the recipient of this life-altering divine love, then there is no one who can possibly be outside God’s reach.
In the perfect patience of God’s eternal view, the end game is the inclusion of every last person who is willing to join in the life of the kingdom of God.
