Episode 565: 1 Corinthians 9 Part 1 Paul Defends His Authority

There were 12 original, hand-picked disciples of Jesus until Judas died by suicide. After he died, Peter said, “Boys, there has to be 12 so we need to fill this vacancy!” So they chose two men who met the qualifications to be an apostle, “they had to be with Jesus from the beginning when he started his ministry and they had to witness his resurrection.” Mathias was chosen to replace Judas by casting lots. Guess who wasn’t there?!?! The man who was persecuting these Jesus followers—Saul who later became Paul! So there is a good reason for the people to question his authority...or is it? Paul saw Jesus and was commissioned by him to take the gospel to the Gentiles, and just like the original disciples, Paul was confirming his message with miracles. Yet, Paul continued to humble himself in order to win others to Christ!