I have difficulty w/ much of Paul's writing; he seem quite judgemental at times, and his writing is often convoluted and difficult to follow. But I can't deny God used him, despite his considerable emotional problems and internal conflict. It gives hope for all of us.
You are not the only one. I believe that is further proof of his narcissistic choices. Although people often express how he changed (and he did), we still see some of it even after his conversion.
But as you say, how helpful is that! How encouraging to know that we are chosen, sometimes due to our struggles, to fulfill the calling and ripple effects He has for us.
Beautiful. 🥹
Thank you for reading and posting your thoughts. Much appreciated.
Thank you for this insightful post, Julie. It’s amazing how God can use someone … their past, good and bad, their weaknesses and their strengths … and turn it all into something good for His kingdom. A fictional book I read by Angela Hunt, “The Apostles Sister” gave me an entirely new perspective on Paul and also the Jewish people of that time.
From what I remember, similar to what you’ve written here, but she does show how he developed over time and then the radical change after encountering Jesus. I appreciated getting a better understanding into how the culture and religion at the time could make it very challenging for the Jewish people to accept Jesus as their Savior.
A very good traditional Christianity post Julie, and even 10 years ago I would have strongly supported it. However, over the past 10 years, I have uncovered numerous reasons to doubt the traditional version of earliest Christian history, especially the Book of Acts. But at present it takes roughly 75,000 words to explain my objections to the Book of Acts, so I will not press further at present.
I have difficulty w/ much of Paul's writing; he seem quite judgemental at times, and his writing is often convoluted and difficult to follow. But I can't deny God used him, despite his considerable emotional problems and internal conflict. It gives hope for all of us.
You are not the only one. I believe that is further proof of his narcissistic choices. Although people often express how he changed (and he did), we still see some of it even after his conversion.
But as you say, how helpful is that! How encouraging to know that we are chosen, sometimes due to our struggles, to fulfill the calling and ripple effects He has for us.
Beautiful. 🥹
Thank you for reading and posting your thoughts. Much appreciated.
Thank you for this insightful post, Julie. It’s amazing how God can use someone … their past, good and bad, their weaknesses and their strengths … and turn it all into something good for His kingdom. A fictional book I read by Angela Hunt, “The Apostles Sister” gave me an entirely new perspective on Paul and also the Jewish people of that time.
Very interesting. What was her take?
From what I remember, similar to what you’ve written here, but she does show how he developed over time and then the radical change after encountering Jesus. I appreciated getting a better understanding into how the culture and religion at the time could make it very challenging for the Jewish people to accept Jesus as their Savior.
Yes, that was a big challenge indeed. The beliefs were well ingrained in the culture for sure. I appreciate you commenting! 🧡
A very good traditional Christianity post Julie, and even 10 years ago I would have strongly supported it. However, over the past 10 years, I have uncovered numerous reasons to doubt the traditional version of earliest Christian history, especially the Book of Acts. But at present it takes roughly 75,000 words to explain my objections to the Book of Acts, so I will not press further at present.
Very insightful, Julie!