What does the Bible say about mercy for great sinners?

In 1 Timothy 1:12-16, the Apostle Paul reflects on his own past as a great sinner who obtained mercy from Christ. He emphasizes that mercy is not something we achieve or earn; rather, it is a free gift from God. Paul acknowledges his blasphemy and persecution of the church, yet, in his ignorance and unbelief, he was shown immense mercy. This underscores the biblical principle that no sinner is beyond the reach of God's grace and mercy, highlighting the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice, which is the true ground for our forgiveness.