How does 1 Corinthians 15:9 demonstrate Paul's humility and view of himself? Setting the Verse in Context 1 Corinthians 15 is Paul’s great defense of the bodily resurrection. Before he builds his case, he reminds the Corinthians of the gospel he preached and his own role in it. Verse 9 is Paul’s personal aside, highlighting how amazed he is that God would use him at all. Paul’s Candid Self-Assessment “For I am the least of the apostles and am unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.” (1 Corinthians 15:9) • “Least of the apostles” – Paul places himself at the bottom of the apostolic list. • “Unworthy to be called an apostle” – he openly confesses he does not deserve the title. • “Because I persecuted the church of God” – his past sins remain vivid in his memory, fueling humility rather than guilt. Why Paul Calls Himself “Least of the Apostles” • He recognizes the damaging zeal of his pre-conversion life (Acts 8:3; 9:1-2). • Unlike the Twelve who walked with Jesus on earth, Paul met the risen Christ only after being an enemy of the faith (Acts 9:3-6). • He sees apostleship as pure grace, not reward (1 Corinthians 15:10). The Impact of Past Sin on Present Humility Paul never minimizes grace, but he never forgets the pit from which he was pulled. • Ephesians 3:8 – “To me, the very least of all the saints, this grace was given…” • 1 Timothy 1:15 – “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.” • Galatians 1:13 – reminds readers of his violent past to magnify God’s mercy. Humility Anchored in Gospel Reality • Honest memory of sin keeps pride in check. • Constant awareness of grace energizes service: “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:10). • Humility does not paralyze; it propels Paul to labor “more abundantly” (v. 10). Comparing Paul’s Voice Elsewhere • Romans 7:18 – admits nothing good dwells in his flesh. • 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 – boasts in weaknesses so Christ’s power rests on him. • Philippians 3:12-14 – presses on because he has not yet arrived. Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Remembering who we were apart from Christ cultivates gratitude. • Titles and achievements are stewardship, not personal trophies. • True humility doesn’t deny gifting; it acknowledges the Giver. • Past sin, once forgiven, becomes a platform to highlight God’s mercy. |
    |