1 Corinthians 15:9 – The least of the apostles

…For I am the least of the apostles, who am not competent to be called an apostle, because I persecute the ecclesia of God.

The living Lord has appeared on many occasions for 40 days after his resurrection. To “the twelve,” once even to five hundred brothers at once, and to all the apostles. Paul was never there. Indeed, when “the ecclesia of God” had been growing against the tribulations for a number of years, Saul of Tarsus was the most prominent persecutor of that movement.

Isn’t it bizarre that while this Saul was going to continue his violent actions abroad, the resurrected Christ appeared to him precisely? A few years after the ascension. Outside the country. To an enemy pur sang. From heaven, in dazzling light. Why did this man have to be called an apostle (= delegate)?

Paul’s calling is of a completely different order than that of the other apostles. He was embarrassed to be called an “apostle.” His calling merely demonstrates grace. And as a living proof of that, he was allowed to go to the nations with that message …

Delen: