Faith without religion.
Defending the Apostle: Paul’s Struggle for Acceptance
In a recent discussion, Shawn and Delaney delved into the concluding verses of Galatians 1, exploring the Apostle Paul’s journey and the challenges he faced in establishing his credibility. Paul recounts his visit to Jerusalem three years after his conversion, where he met Peter and James, the brother of Jesus. He emphasizes that his teachings come directly from God, not from human consultation, highlighting his independence from other apostles.
The conversation touches on the skepticism Paul faced, as he often had to defend his apostleship. Despite having direct encounters with Jesus and the Holy Spirit, many still doubted him. Shawn and Delaney reflect on how human nature tends to resist new ideas, especially when they challenge established norms. They discuss how Paul’s message, initially embraced by society’s outcasts, struggled to gain acceptance among the powerful and wealthy.
The dialogue also considers the broader narrative of the Bible as a reflection of human nature and God’s plan to rectify humanity’s mistakes. Shawn and Delaney see the Bible as a success story, illustrating how God anticipated human failings and provided a path to redemption. They conclude by acknowledging the ongoing journey of understanding these themes, promising to continue their exploration in the next chapter of Galatians.
