Topical Bible: Wisdom of Paul

Bible > Topical > Wisdom of Paul

◄ Wisdom of Paul ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

The Apostle Paul, a pivotal figure in the early Christian Church, is renowned for his profound wisdom and theological insights, which are extensively documented in the New Testament. His epistles, written to various early Christian communities, offer a rich tapestry of doctrinal teachings, practical advice, and spiritual encouragement. Paul's wisdom is not only evident in his theological expositions but also in his ability to address complex issues within the early Church with clarity and authority.

The Source of Paul's Wisdom

Paul attributes his wisdom to divine revelation and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. In his letter to the Galatians, he emphasizes that the gospel he preached was not of human origin but received through a revelation of Jesus Christ (Galatians 1:11-12). This divine source of wisdom is further underscored in 1 Corinthians 2:10-13 , where Paul explains that the Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God, and that he speaks not in words taught by human wisdom but in those taught by the Spirit.

Wisdom in Doctrine

Paul's epistles are foundational to Christian doctrine, addressing key theological concepts such as justification by faith, the nature of the Church, and the role of grace. In Romans, Paul articulates the doctrine of justification, asserting that "a person is justified by faith apart from works of the Law" (Romans 3:28). His understanding of grace is encapsulated in Ephesians 2:8-9 , where he writes, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast."

Practical Wisdom

Paul's letters also provide practical wisdom for Christian living. In his epistle to the Philippians, he advises believers to "do everything without complaining or arguing" (Philippians 2:14) and to "rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4). His counsel on relationships, work, and community life is grounded in love and humility, as seen in Colossians 3:12-14 , where he encourages believers to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

Wisdom in Suffering

Paul's wisdom is also evident in his teachings on suffering and perseverance. He views suffering as a means of participating in Christ's sufferings and as a pathway to spiritual maturity. In Romans 5:3-5 , Paul writes, "Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." His own experiences of hardship, detailed in 2 Corinthians 11:23-28 , serve as a testament to his steadfast faith and reliance on God's strength.

Wisdom in Unity and Diversity

Paul's vision for the Church is one of unity amidst diversity. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 , he uses the metaphor of the body to illustrate how diverse gifts and roles contribute to the unity and functioning of the Church. He emphasizes that all members, regardless of their function, are essential to the body of Christ, promoting a spirit of mutual respect and interdependence.

Wisdom in Eschatology

Paul's eschatological teachings provide insight into the Christian hope of resurrection and eternal life. In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 , he comforts believers with the assurance of Christ's return and the resurrection of the dead. His teachings on the end times are marked by a call to vigilance and moral integrity, as seen in 1 Corinthians 15:58 : "Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."

Paul's wisdom, as captured in his epistles, continues to be a source of inspiration and guidance for Christians, offering timeless truths that address both the spiritual and practical aspects of the Christian life.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Peter 3:15
And account that the long-suffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given to him has written to you;
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Colossians iv. 5, 6
... Admirable! how great is the wisdom of Paul! Observe, he doth not put ... But [890]
let us see the wisdom of Paul. "Walk in wisdom," he saith ...
/.../homily xi colossians iv 5.htm

The Divine Way of Wisdom, and Greatness, and Might God's Hiding of ...
... Paul's epistles... Chapter VI."The Divine Way of Wisdom, and Greatness, and
Might God's Hiding of Himself, and Subsequent Revelation. ...
/.../tertullian/the five books against marcion/chapter vi the divine way of.htm

From the Acts of the Disputation Conducted by Malchion against ...
... sapientia dispendium patiatur et ideo composita esse non possit--the sense intended
being perhaps just that Paul alleged that the divine Wisdom admitted of ...
/.../malchion/the epistle of malchion/iii from the acts of the.htm

Wisdom.
... WISDOM. ... He said it was the same as Paul's. I don't know what Paul's persuasion
was. All persuasions claim him. Sankey says he is a Methodist. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/moody/moodys anecdotes and illustrations/wisdom.htm

Hebrews i. 1, 2
... O! the wisdom of the Apostle! or rather, not the wisdom of Paul, but the
grace of the Spirit is the thing to wonder at. For surely ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily i hebrews i 1.htm

Fragments Apparently of the Same Epistle of the Synod of Antioch;
... Moreover understand (Paul would say) the union with Wisdom in a different sense,
namely as being one according to instruction and participation; [1413] but not ...
/.../malchion/the epistle of malchion/ii fragments apparently of the same.htm

Wisdom and Revelation.
... our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom
and revelation ... Paul felt was necessary for himself by his prayers for others ...
/.../thomas/the prayers of st paul/vii wisdom and revelation.htm

Testimonies. 1. That Christ is the First-Born, and that He is the ...
... the fountain of the water of life freely." [3936] That He also is both the wisdom
and the power of God, Paul proves in his first Epistle to the Corinthians. ...
/.../three books of testimonies against the jews/testimonies 1 that christ is.htm

2 Timothy ii. 7-Jan
... for a wrestler, [1356] he is not crowned. And observe the wisdom of Paul.
He mentions wrestlers and soldiers, the one to prepare ...
/.../homily iv 2 timothy ii.htm

True Wisdom.
... TRUE WISDOM. ... See how Paul shone for God as he went out, the first missionary to the
heathen, telling them of the God whom he served, and who had sent His Son ...
//christianbookshelf.org/moody/the overcoming life/true wisdom.htm