In the text we have
I. A humiliating and painful recollection. Men should diligently study the true uses of the past. The past is rightly used (1) when it deepens our sense of personal guilt; (2) when it illustrates the greatness of Divine mercy; (3) when it inspires with courage in regard to the future.
II. A humiliating and painful recollection relieved by the highest consideration. "I obtained mercy." The fact that sin must be met by the mercy of God shows (1) that sin deserves punishment, (2) that escape from such punishment can only be secured by the sovereign mercy of God, (3) that there must be a personal realisation of the Divine mercy.
III. A humiliating and painful experience succeeded by a holy and sublime vocation. The fact that Jesus Christ employs converted sinners in the ministry of His Gospel serves three important purposes (1) It puts the minister into moral sympathy with his hearers; (2) it exemplifies the power of the Gospel to do what it proposes; (3) it stimulates the study of Divine things. Application: (1) This text appeals to the worstof men blasphemers, persecutors, injurious; (2) explains the vehemence and urgency of an earnest ministry; (3) exalts and illustrates the infinite mercy of Jesus Christ.
Parker, City Temple,vol. i., p. 58.