What does "last of all" reveal about Paul's place among the apostles? Text Under the Spotlight “and last of all He appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.” (1 Corinthians 15:8) What “Last of All” Tells Us • Chronologically last eyewitness to the risen Christ • Marks the close of resurrection appearances recorded in Scripture • Highlights Paul’s unique, post-Ascension calling—outside the original Twelve Chronological Reality • Jesus’ appearances: Mary Magdalene (John 20:16), the Twelve (John 20:19; Luke 24:36), “more than five hundred” (1 Corinthians 15:6), James (1 Corinthians 15:7) • Paul’s encounter on the Damascus Road (Acts 9:3-6) comes after the Ascension (Acts 1:9-11) • No further resurrection appearances establishing new apostles are recorded after Paul Humble Self-Assessment • “For I am the least of the apostles and am unworthy to be called an apostle…” (1 Corinthians 15:9) • “as to one abnormally born” (1 Corinthians 15:8) = born out of proper time, unexpected, miraculous • Echoed in Ephesians 3:8: “I am less than the least of all the saints…” Divine Initiative, Not Human Appointment • Galatians 1:1: “Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ…” • Acts 26:16: “I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness…” • Emphasizes grace: 1 Timothy 1:15-16—“Christ Jesus came to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.” Implications for Apostolic Authority • Equality in message: Paul’s gospel matches that of the earlier apostles (Galatians 2:6-9) • Distinct ministry sphere: “apostle to the Gentiles” (Romans 11:13) • Serves as the Spirit-inspired author of thirteen NT letters, affirming full apostolic authority despite late arrival A Completed Roster of Eyewitnesses • “Last of all” signals a closure: no more foundational apostles after Paul (cf. Ephesians 2:20) • Protects the church from later claims to equal apostolic revelation Encouragement for Us Today • God’s grace reaches outsiders and latecomers • Authority of Scripture rests on historically verified, eyewitness testimony—Paul included • The same grace that placed Paul “last of all” is available to every believer now |
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