The term "trustworthy saying" refers to specific statements within the New Testament that are highlighted by the Apostle Paul as being of particular importance and reliability. These sayings are found in the Pastoral Epistles—1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus—and serve as concise summaries of key Christian doctrines and ethical teachings. The phrase "trustworthy saying" underscores the reliability and authority of these teachings within the early Christian community.

1 Timothy 1:15
The first occurrence of a "trustworthy saying" is found in 1 Timothy 1:15: "This is a trustworthy saying, worthy of full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst." This statement encapsulates the core of the Gospel message, emphasizing the purpose of Christ's incarnation and the universal need for salvation. Paul's personal reflection on his own sinfulness highlights the transformative power of grace and serves as a model of humility and gratitude for believers.

1 Timothy 3:1
Another "trustworthy saying" appears in 1 Timothy 3:1: "This is a trustworthy saying: If anyone aspires to be an overseer, he desires a noble task." Here, Paul affirms the honorable nature of church leadership. The role of an overseer, or bishop, is presented as a noble pursuit, underscoring the importance of godly leadership within the church. This saying sets the stage for the qualifications of church leaders, emphasizing character and integrity.

1 Timothy 4:8-9
In 1 Timothy 4:8-9, Paul writes: "For physical exercise is of limited value, but godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for the present life and for the one to come. This is a trustworthy saying, worthy of full acceptance." This passage contrasts the temporary benefits of physical exercise with the eternal value of godliness. The emphasis on spiritual discipline reflects the Christian call to live a life that is pleasing to God, with eternal implications.

2 Timothy 2:11-13
The "trustworthy saying" in 2 Timothy 2:11-13 is a poetic expression of the Christian life: "This is a trustworthy saying: If we died with Him, we will also live with Him; if we endure, we will also reign with Him; if we deny Him, He will also deny us; if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself." This saying encapsulates the hope of resurrection, the call to perseverance, the warning against apostasy, and the assurance of God's faithfulness. It serves as both encouragement and admonition for believers.

Titus 3:4-8
In Titus 3:4-8, Paul presents another "trustworthy saying": "But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. This Spirit He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by His grace, we would become heirs with the hope of eternal life. This saying is trustworthy." This passage highlights the doctrine of salvation by grace, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the hope of eternal life. It underscores the transformative power of God's mercy and the believer's new identity in Christ.

The "trustworthy sayings" in the Pastoral Epistles serve as foundational truths for the early church and continue to be vital for Christian teaching and practice. They encapsulate essential aspects of the Gospel, the nature of Christian leadership, the call to godliness, the hope of resurrection, and the assurance of salvation by grace. These sayings are intended to be fully accepted and integrated into the life of the believer, reflecting the enduring truth and reliability of God's Word.