How do we know that extreme wickedness does not prevent salvation?

The story of Saul of Tarsus, as recorded in Acts 9, illustrates that no amount of wickedness can hinder God's saving grace. Saul was known for his persecution of Christians, yet he was chosen by God to become a major proponent of the Gospel. This demonstrates that salvation is based on God's sovereign choice and not on an individual's past sins or merits. As Paul later identified himself, he was the chief of sinners, yet Christ came to save him, affirming that God's grace is sufficient to save even the most extreme offenders.