1Corinthians 1:1 – Representative of Christ Jesus

Paul, a called apostle of Christ Jesus, through the will of God, and Sosthenes, a brother…

We are at the beginning of a long and extremely interesting and important letter. Written by Paul from Ephesus (16:8). It coincides with the time described in Acts 19:21. In terms of from, Paul follows the classic salutation: first the sender, then the addressees and then a greeting. Paul writes this letter in the company of one Sostenes, presumably the same as “the chief of the synagogue” of which we read in Acts 18:17.

Paul presents himself as “called representative of Christ Jesus”. Thus this letter speaks with the authority of Christ Jesus himself. For Paul is most personally called by him and delegated to speak on his behalf. It is true that Paul writes, not to be worthy to be called an apostle (15). But nevertheless, he is “… through the will of GOD”. That is to say, it has never been Paul’s own choice.

In fact, Paul’s apostleship is even of a much higher order than that of “the twelve”. Literally higher. For he was called and delegated from heaven in a dazzling light. He is also the last apostle to be called (15:8). What Paul makes known on behalf of Christ is definitive and complete.

Delen: