Reflective Paper-Paul Revisited Assignment
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Reflective Paper: Paul Revisited Assignment
Andrew Pedde
NBST 520: New Testament Orientation II
August 13, 2023
Contents
Introduction……………………………………………………………………………
....
3
Re-Assessment of Paul……………………………………………………….…………..4
The Current Perspective on Paul…………………………………………………………6
The Summary of Paul’s Life ……………………………………………………………..7
Paul’s Letters ……………………………………………………………………………..8
Paul’s Theology …………………………………………………………………………..11
Paul’s Significance in the Church Today ………………………………...………………12
Conclusion ……………………………………………………………………...………...13
Bibliography …………………………………………………………………..………….15
ii
Introduction
Saul of Tarsus, more commonly recognized as Paul the Apostle, emerged as a significant figure in the formative years of Christianity, and his influence resonates within the modern Church. Hailing from Tarsus in Cilicia, situated in Asia Minor, he embodied the identity of a Greek-speaking Jew. While his occupation was that of a tentmaker, his spiritual journey led him towards the path of a Pharisee, demonstrating a fervent commitment to upholding the tenets of the Mosaic law as outlined in the Torah.
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In a curious twist, Paul's initial endeavors were not aligned with the burgeoning Christian movement. Instead, he was an active persecutor of early adherents of this radical faith, whose novel interpretations clashed with the established Jewish customs and regulations predating the advent of Christ. This intricate interplay of pre-Christ Jewish traditions and the emerging Christian paradigm formed the backdrop against which Paul's transformative odyssey played out.
Following his travels along the road to Damascus, his fervent campaign of persecution experienced an abrupt and transformative interruption. It was during this pivotal journey that Paul encountered a vision that metaphorically instigated an instantaneous recalibration of his theological perspective. The ninth chapter of the Book of Acts unveils a profound moment wherein Jesus Himself visited Paul, who had once been fervently zealous in his pursuits. This divine encounter fundamentally altered the trajectory of his life's purpose.
Once notorious for his zealous endeavors aimed at disbanding the burgeoning church and eradicating its Christian adherents, Paul underwent an astonishing metamorphosis. His mission took an astonishing turn as he transitioned from a role of dismantling to one of construction, 1
Robert W. Yarbrough and Walter A. Elwell. Encountering the New Testament: A Historical and Theological Survey. (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2013), 236. iii
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dedicating himself to the establishment of the church and the nurturing of individuals into devoted disciples of Christ.
He convened with fellow apostles in Jerusalem before embarking on journeys that resulted in the foundation of numerous churches, ultimately solidifying his profound impact on both the New Testament and the Christian belief system. Among the invaluable contributions attributed to
Paul are the epistolary works encompassing Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Thessalonians, and Philemon, among others. His legacy is notably marked by a conversion narrative of remarkable resonance – a journey from his ignominious role as a chief persecutor vehemently orchestrating the eradication of Christians, to his ascendancy as a pivotal figure and guiding light, entrusted with the task of disseminating the gospel's transformative message to multitudes.
This profound transformation, encapsulated within his life's trajectory, stands as an enduring testament to the redemptive power of faith. The narrative arc of Paul's evolution serves as a testament to the resilience of human potential, illustrating how the most ardent adversaries can evolve into impassioned advocates, emboldened by an unwavering commitment to their newfound purpose.
Re-Assessment of Paul Upon careful examination of the course video report assignment, Paul's perspective gains a heightened clarity. In a manner akin to acquainting oneself with a new companion, delving into his narrative allows for the expansion of perspective and comprehension. Strikingly, the video seemed to devote a significant portion of its content to revisiting the events that transpired in Paul's life, rather than emphasizing his subsequent actions and responses. Within the narrative framework, Paul's experiences encompassed receiving a divine vision, enduring blindness, iv
enduring torture, imprisonment, and mockery. However, it is crucial to recognize that the crux of significance lies in Paul's reactions and conduct in the face of these tribulations.
In the crucible of life-threatening circumstances that imperiled his existence and freedom, Paul's indomitable determination and steadfast refusal to yield emerge as exemplary qualities. His resolute stance serves as a beacon of inspiration for fellow believers, urging them to maintain
unshakable confidence in the gospel's veracity, regardless of the toll it might exact. It's somewhat
lamentable that the video did not adequately underscore the extensive scope of Paul's missions and letters, which hold monumental significance within the context of the Christian faith.
Paul's ardent endeavors in constructing churches hold an integral role in the dissemination and unity of the global Church. His epistles, intricate guides for navigating the complexities of life within a unified Church, offer invaluable counsel. Unfortunately, these contributions were not given their due attention in the video.
Additionally, the video appeared to downplay the profound import of Paul's conversion, a transformative event that liberated him from his past wrongdoings and facilitated reconciliation with God through Christ. Although the extent of Paul's acquaintance with Christ during His earthly ministry remains uncertain, it's evident that Paul's acknowledgment of Christ's sovereignty materialized during his transformative encounter on the Road to Damascus. This radical shift in perspective was inextricably tied to his subsequent radical mission.
Paul stands as a living testament to the profound metamorphosis believers undergo upon embracing Christ as their Savior. Yet, communicating this transformation to those who were familiar with Paul prior to his encounter with Jesus proved challenging. The profundity of Paul's mission to propagate the gospel, along with his resolute assertion that salvation is rooted solely in faith and cannot be attained through merit, engendered friction with his erstwhile legalistic v
Jewish colleagues. This friction intensified when Paul expanded his teachings to encompass the inclusion of Gentiles in the sphere of salvation.
The Current Perspective on Paul
Before delving into an in-depth exploration of Paul's life and teachings, he initially appeared as an almost unapproachable figure leading a significant breakaway from Judaism. It appears his mission was rooted in proving the redundancy of Jewish law and persuading all to embrace Christianity wholeheartedly. At a surface level, it might have seemed that Paul was advocating for a departure from meticulous rituals and deep-rooted traditions. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that Paul's purpose extended beyond apparent divides, aiming to
unite both Gentiles and Jews under a common banner.
Paul's approach, revealed through thorough examination, was characterized by a delicate balance: he sought to uphold Jewish practices for those of Jewish heritage while concurrently fostering inclusivity among Gentiles. He envisioned a scenario where Gentiles could partake in the communal essence of the faith without being obligated to adhere to every intricacy of the stringent Jewish way of life prescribed by the Mosaic law. While Gentiles were extended an invitation to join in the collective spiritual journey, it was not made mandatory for the purpose of
salvation. This nuanced perspective finds resonance in Mark Nanos' elucidation within "Four Views on the Apostle Paul," where he portrays Paul as not critically opposed to Judaism but rather dedicated to assisting non-Jewish individuals in navigating their role within the Jewish communal existence.
2
Paul's leadership during the exponential expansion of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire was undeniably impactful. In "Legacy Leadership: The Leadership Wisdom of the 2
Michael F. Bird and Thomas R. Schreiner. Four Views on the Apostle Paul
. (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2012), 190.
vi
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Apostle Paul," the authors emphasize Paul's laser focus on cultivating the nascent church and nurturing individual believers. It becomes apparent that Paul engineered a self-perpetuating leadership model, a framework that not only influenced the church directly but also catalyzed the
growth of subsequent leaders.
3
These emerging leaders, in turn, carried forward the legacy, birthing a cascade effect that ensured the continuity of Paul's mission. This deliberate cultivation of leadership proficiency empowered Paul to confidently depart from each location, secure in the
knowledge that capable individuals were poised to carry forward the noble task of guiding souls toward the embrace of Christ.
The Summary of Paul’s Life
Paul's initial biblical mention is tied to the stoning of the Apostle Stephen in Acts 7:58. This introductory encounter portrays him as a figure of influence, with persecutors placing their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul. Notably educated under Gamaliel, Paul meticulously adhered to the Mosaic law, evolving into a committed Pharisee determined to eliminate Christians seen as a threat to the established order.
Remarkably, Paul's Roman citizenship proved significant post-conversion during his time as a
prisoner in Rome. This status shielded him from execution by Roman hands, enabling him to continue writing letters from his cell and furthering the church's expansion.
4
His Roman citizenship seems providential.
Before his conversion, Paul ardently persecuted the church, until a vision left him temporarily
blind on the Road to Damascus. The resurrected Christ appeared to him, and with divine guidance, his sight was restored by Ananias. This profound encounter catalyzed Paul's 3
J. Lee Whittington, Tricia M. Pitts, Woody V. Kageler, and Vicki L. Goodwin. Legacy Leadership: The Leadership Wisdom of the Apostle Paul. The Leadership Quarterly. Vol. 16, No. 5 (2005), 753. 4
Stanley E. Porter. The Apostle Paul: His Life, Thought, and Letters.
(Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic,
2012), 65. vii
conversion to Christianity, an experience Udo Schnelle highlighted as pivotal in shaping the apostle's subsequent life.
5
In a remarkable transformation, Paul, having once been the persecutor of Christians, found himself on the receiving end of persecution due to his renewed devotion to Jesus. Seeking refuge
in Jerusalem, he established connections with fellow apostles and subsequently undertook significant missionary expeditions across Asia Minor. His primary objective was the unification of the church under the unifying banner of Christ.
Paul's influential standing and his prior role as a Pharisee, coupled with his esteemed position in society, positioned him to engage in dialogues and deliberations with authorities concerning the salvation and integration of Gentiles into the faith. He advocated the viewpoint that Gentiles need not conform to Jewish law since it wasn't binding on them. This transition marked a distinct
shift in Paul's beliefs, evolving from an impassioned Pharisee to an ardent adherent of Christ, a transformation that fundamentally reshaped his theological outlook.
While journeying through Asia Minor, Paul's interactions and experiences yielded several of his epistles, directed to the communities of Thessalonians, Galatians, Corinthians, and Romans. Upon returning to Jerusalem, Paul's arrest and subsequent imprisonment transpired. His life was spared due to his Roman citizenship, preventing his execution. Remarkably, even in confinement, Paul persisted in his written endeavors, producing notable epistles such as Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Following his eventual release, Paul's fate took a somber turn. Historical accounts suggest that he met his end as a martyr under Nero's reign.
Paul’s Letters
5
Udo Schnelle. The Apostle Paul: His Life and Theology
. (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic , 2012), 65.
viii
As noted by author Richard Green, Paul unmistakably emerges as the most prolific writer in the New Testament, with nearly half of its content attributed to him.
6
Paul's epistles each bear a unique purpose, encompassing far more than the scope of mere church bulletins or newsletters. They encompass a diverse spectrum of functions, ranging from providing solace and unity to imparting knowledge and sustenance. Within these letters lies invaluable counsel for Christians, guiding them on how to embody the essence of Christ within the world as the chosen representatives of God. Undoubtedly, Paul's contributions played a pivotal role in fueling the Church's remarkable growth.
Green aptly characterizes Paul as the Church's chief public relations ambassador. Paul's firm foundation in Old Testament Scripture, coupled with his personal encounter with Jesus Christ, and further accentuated by his extensive travels across the Roman Empire, exemplified the embodiment of fundamental principles of public relations.
7
His endeavors echoed far beyond the confines of mere rhetoric, encapsulating a practical demonstration of these principles in action.
Paul's epistles emerged as a guiding force, spearheading the charge even when he couldn't be physically present. Amid his personal tribulations, he consistently urged the Church to endure and stand firm. He serves as a poignant exemplar for believers, embodying the profound intertwining of his fate with Christ's, encompassing both suffering and glory. This resilient perspective insulated him against external circumstances.
Despite composing his letters from within the confines of a prison cell, Paul's vigor in summoning the Philippians to prayer, gratitude, and joy remained undiminished. His unwavering
belief was that all events furthering the propagation of the gospel unfolded in alignment with God's Will.
8
6
Richard Green. The Apostle Paul: Public Relations Expert
. Heythrop Journal Vol. 57, No. 4 (2016), 622.
7
Ibid., 621.
8
Udo Schnelle. Apostle Paul: His Life and Theology. (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2012), 239. ix
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Paul, when necessary, also demonstrated the courage to reprove fellow believers straying from the path of truth. Galatians 2:11-14 recounts an instance where he confronted Peter for abandoning social interactions with Gentiles due to pressure from a circumcision-affiliated group. This personal admonition serves as a timeless lesson, urging all believers to heed the imperative of upholding authenticity and avoiding leading others astray. The lesson is especially vital for leaders who must steadfastly prioritize inclusion.
Paul's message extends to the realm of unity, notably encapsulated in Ephesians 2:11-22. He eloquently elucidates how Christ's reconciliation bound Jews and Gentiles into a unified entity. A
pivotal moment is underscored in Ephesians 2:17-19, where Christ's proclamation of peace extends to both near and far, enabling access to the Father through a shared Spirit. This transformation eradicates divisions, assimilating all as fellow citizens within God's household, erasing the distinctions of foreignness and alienation.
Finally, Paul's writings aimed to embolden fellow Christians as they navigated a path divergent from the norms of the world. Acquainted with the weight of persecution and derision, Paul possessed an intimate understanding of the Christian journey's challenges. His letters often emerged during his own periods of adversity, reflecting his ability to empathize.
Even during his imprisonment, Paul's focus remained resolute on bolstering and sustaining the Church's spirit through his written words. A prime example of this intent is found in Colossians 2:5, where Paul commends individuals for their unwavering faith in Christ. Preceding
this, in Colossians 1:23, Paul offers reassurance that steadfastness in faith, coupled with an unswerving commitment to the hope of the gospel, ensures an unblemished standing in the Lord's gaze.
Paul’s Theology
x
Paul's theological perspective underwent a gradual evolution. In a manner reflective of genuine Christian transformation, his essence underwent a renewal within Christ, an evident truth expressed in 2 Corinthians 5:17. The radical notion he adopted, asserting that salvation emanated from grace through faith in Christ, took shape following his profound transformation. Prior to this metamorphosis, he adhered to the conventional belief that adherence to the law was the key to salvation.
The transformation in his perspective is articulated in Romans 3:28, where Paul asserts, "Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law." This paradigm shift also challenged his Pharisaic background. Recognizing that salvation is solely within the domain of God's grace illuminates the inherent imperfection of humanity. Obedience and virtuous deeds, though commendable, don't guarantee salvation—an idea that can be challenging for believers to embrace.
Paul's personal history holds relevance in this context. Addressing the Philippians, he underscores that if anyone were to boast in earthly accomplishments, it should be him. This sentiment is vividly presented in Philippians 3:5-6, wherein he enumerates his credentials as a Pharisee, displaying a deep-rooted background that defied the very stance he later embraced.
Paul's extensive contemplation illuminated the purpose of the Mosaic law. He interpreted it as
a moral compass, revealing one's transgressions and prompting a redirection toward embracing the necessity of Christ's salvation. Admirably, despite stressing the inadequacy of the law alone to save believers, he continued to hold a reverential regard for the law consistent with his Jewish heritage. He emphasized its sanctity and acknowledged its role within his own salvation narrative.
xi
Having established this foundation, Paul pivoted toward elucidating God's inclusive intention,
extending salvation even to the Gentiles.
9
This shift underscores his journey from a perspective bound within tradition to one grounded in a broader, all-encompassing vision of God's grace.
Paul's theological foundation found its ultimate center in Christ. His discourse was driven by the notion of unity grounded in the essence of Christ. This unity, he asserted, bridged the gap between Gentiles and Jews, harmoniously uniting them as one through their shared faith in Christ. Salvation, a universal gift, extended its reach to all humanity, contingent upon the acceptance of Christ and the act of repentance.
In a compelling affirmation of this concept, Romans 3:22-24 reinforces the universal scope of
salvation: "Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference. For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:” This passage underscores Paul's conviction that the shared human condition of sinfulness dissolves all
divisions, and the avenue to redemption rests solely in the embrace of Christ's grace and the transformative redemption He offers.
Paul’s Significance in the Church Today
Paul's legacy, exemplar, and teachings continue to wield significance in the modern era. He retains his status as a preeminent advocate of the Christian faith, often regarded as second in influence only to Jesus. Paul's imperfections serve as a relatable testament to the transformative power of a life in Christ. Contemporary Christians frequently turn to his teachings for contextual guidance, drawing insight from his writings that emerge from a complex personal history. Despite his shadowed past, Paul's life underwent a remarkable transformation catalyzed by divine intervention, allowing him to ardently advance the gospel's message.
9
Richard Green. The Apostle Paul: Public Relations Expert
. Heythrop Journal Vol. 57, No. 4 (2016), 623.
xii
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His call for unity resonates through the ages and remains a central focus within the Church today. Paul's guidance to congregations stands as a cornerstone, clarifying leadership roles and illuminating the intricate interplay of every individual's contribution within the Church's fabric. In his view, the Church constitutes a singular body, with Christ as its head. This metaphor emphasizes the indispensability of each member's unique gifts and assigned roles, facilitating a reciprocal cycle of service and nourishment.
Paul's indelible influence lies in his unwavering zeal to disseminate the gospel, mirroring the directive of Matthew 28:19-20: "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations..." This command underscores the enduring mandate for Christians to emulate Paul's initiative, bringing Christ's message to every corner of human existence. His audacity stands as a beacon for contemporary believers, urging them to embrace boldness grounded in the certainty of truth.
In Romans 1:16, Paul's proclamation, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ..." signifies his unswerving commitment. This unapologetic stance serves as a clarion call for present-day believers to cultivate resolute assurance in their convictions. Paul's life, teachings, and profound reflections continue to supply the Christian community with intellectual, pragmatic, and thought-provoking insights that effectively shape the landscape of faith in the modern world.
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Conclusion
Robert Green highlights God's astute selection of Paul as His messenger, emphasizing, "In His perfect wisdom, God chose men and women to help deliver his message...The Apostle Paul could be considered one of the best examples of God's choices" for disseminating the gospel.
11
10
Stanley E. Porter. The Apostle Paul: His Life, Thought, and Letters.
(Grand Rapids, MI: Baker
Academic, 2012), 392.
11
Richard Green. The Apostle Paul: Public Relations Expert
. Heythrop Journal Vol. 57, No. 4 (2016), 621.
xiii
Frequently, God's intricate design unfolds with meticulous calculation and brilliance, reflecting His deep understanding of human nature and a strategic approach to leadership appointments.
The paradox of Paul's transformation underscores God's grand plan, defying conventional expectations. Initially resolute in his mission to quash Christianity, Paul's transformation into God's chosen messenger for propagating the gospel throughout Asia Minor and beyond appeared improbable. However, God's plan transcends human limitations. Paul's remarkable background—
an erudite scholar, esteemed Pharisee, and influential leader—renders him the ideal candidate for
a radical transformation through Christ. His unique attributes position him to effectively navigate
interactions with his former legalistic peers, enabling him to present Christ's message compellingly and provoke theological introspection.
Paul evolves into a fervent advocate for Christ's transformative prowess. His personal testimony becomes a vivid illustration of the redemptive power and liberation experienced upon embracing Christ. His journey from humility to a new life following his acceptance of Christ mirrors the model of salvation itself.
Following Paul's paradigm, Christians are encouraged to exhibit audacious faith in Christ, perceive all individuals as integral components of a unified whole, and exhibit unwavering resilience in the face of adversity for the purpose of spreading the gospel. Paul's narrative remains a beacon of inspiration, exemplifying the potency of divine transformation and the enduring commitment to fulfill God's purposes.
Bibliography
Bird, Michael F, and Thomas R Schreiner. 2012. Four Views on the Apostle Paul
. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.
Elwell, Walter A., and Robert W. Yarbrough. 2013. Encountering the New Testament: A Historical and Theological Survey
. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic.
xiv
Green, Richard. 2015. “The Apostle Paul: Public Relations Expert.” The Heythrop Journal
57, no. 4 (November): 621–24. https://doi.org/10.1111/heyj.12310.
Porter, Stanley E. 2016. The Apostle Paul : His Life, Thought, and Letters
. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans Publishing Company.
Schnelle, Udo. 2005. Apostle Paul: His Life and Theology
. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic.
Whittington, J. Lee, Tricia M. Pitts, Woody V. Kageler, and Vicki L. Goodwin. 2005. “Legacy Leadership: The Leadership Wisdom of the Apostle Paul.” The Leadership Quarterly
16, no. 5 (October): 749–70. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.leaqua.2005.07.006.
xv
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