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Was Paul a False Apostle?

Sermonette by David C. Grabbe

An increasing number of people believe Paul was not a real apostle, but an imposter, trying to seduce people to stop keeping God's laws.

Where Did The Original Apostles Go?

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

The apostle Paul, originally named Saul of Tarsus, was chosen by God to be the twelfth apostle, replacing Judas Iscariot, as He intended Paul to carry forth His message. Unlike the original twelve apostles, Paul was specifically commissioned to bear the gospel to the Gentiles. His travels through Cyprus, Asia Minor, Greece, and Italy are well-documented, and most of the New Testament following the book of Acts was written by him. Christ gave assurance to Ananias, who baptized Paul, of this mission to the Gentiles, as noted in Acts 9:15. Paul himself declared in Acts 18:6 that from then on he would go to the Gentiles, a role not assigned to the original twelve, who were sent to the lost sheep of the House of Israel. Christ chose Paul for a three-fold purpose: to teach the Gentiles, to appear before kings, and to bear His name to the children of Israel. After a two-year imprisonment in Rome, during which no accusers appeared, Paul was to fulfill his third commission among the Lost Ten Tribes. Luke, however, was not permitted by Christ to include the final journeys of Paul's life in Acts, as it would have revealed the whereabouts of the children of Israel before God's appointed time. Paul preached in Rome around AD 60, where the true gospel had not been publicly proclaimed before his arrival, and he never mentions Peter in his epistle to the Roman brethren. Universal tradition holds that Paul was brought back to Rome in AD 67, beheaded in AD 68, and buried on the Ostian Way. Additionally, Clement of Rome confirms Paul's journey to the West, and the Greek church historian Theodoret reports that Paul brought salvation to the isles in the ocean, identified as the British Isles, indicating part of his mission to the lost tribes. Paul's work in southern Asia Minor, including cities like Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe, contrasted with the northern regions under Peter's jurisdiction, where Paul did not preach.

Paul: Grace, Law, and Obedience

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Paul, the Apostle, emerges as a significant figure whose background and transformation are pivotal to understanding his contributions to Scripture. Born in Tarsus, a notable city in southeastern Turkey, Paul described it with pride as no obscure place. Though a Jew by nationality, he held Roman citizenship, a valuable status likely inherited from his father. Raised in Jerusalem, he was educated under Gamaliel, a prominent Pharisaic teacher, and trained strictly in the Jewish law, displaying intense zeal for God. This zeal led him to persecute the church with authority from the council of elders, establishing him as a formidable figure among his contemporaries, respected by both peers and elders for his rapid progress and outward demeanor. Paul's dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus marked a profound shift in his life. Encountering a blinding light and hearing Jesus speak to him, he was rendered blind and instructed to go to Damascus for further guidance. There, Ananias, a member of the sect he once persecuted, informed Paul of his calling to witness for Christ and urged him to be baptized. This event turned the hunter into the hunted, as Paul faced rejection instead of acceptance and became an enemy to those in power. Yet, he began to experience God's direct involvement in his life, building his faith for the challenging assignment God had prepared for him. Reflecting on his past as an old man, Paul advised Timothy, viewing himself as the greatest of sinners, yet transformed by the mercy shown to him by Christ. He came to see his own sinfulness deeply, repenting and considering himself the least of the apostles, despite working harder than all others combined over decades of sacrifice. Paul revealed that God had set him apart from his mother's womb, emphasizing that no works of his own influenced God's choice of him as an apostle to the Gentiles. This divine selection guided his education in Old Covenant law long before his calling, preparing him for his ultimate purpose without his awareness until the moment of conversion. After his conversion, Paul spent time in the desert, taught directly by Christ, with minimal human input. When opposition arose among Jewish church members regarding his calling and message, he traveled to Jerusalem to meet Peter, James, and John, not for instruction but to establish mutual understanding and confirm shared beliefs. His writings, often difficult to understand as noted by Peter, form a substantial portion of the New Testament, highlighting his importance. Combined with Luke's accounts in Acts, nearly half of the New Testament relates to Paul or flows through his mind, underscoring his critical role in shaping early Christian thought.

Twelfth Apostle?

Sermonette by Bill Onisick

Was it Matthias or Paul who replaced Judas Iscariot? Christ did not choose him; rather, the disciples selected his name by prayer and casting lots.

Was Mr. Armstrong an Apostle?

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

Based on the requirements and evidences of apostles, here is how we can know whether the title is fitting for the late Herbert Armstrong.

The Miracle of God's Calling

Sermon by Kim Myers

The apostle Paul was selected and called by God, just as we all have been, brethren. The miracle of Paul's calling was dramatic and extraordinary. On the road to Damascus, a great blinding light surrounded him, and a voice called him by name, identifying itself as Christ. This terrified the men with him, leaving them speechless. Paul was struck blind, uncertain if the condition was permanent, and for three days, he neither ate nor drank. He was humble, scared, and confused, praying during this time. God had a significant and immediate job for Paul, unlike the gradual process many of us experience in our calling. Though our callings may lack such drama, they are no less miraculous. Paul endured immense trials and suffering, yet God loved him deeply. His experiences included shipwrecks, being adrift at sea for a day and a night, and countless other hardships. Despite these challenges, God's care for Paul never wavered, just as it remains steadfast for each of us through our own difficulties. Paul's calling, marked by a direct encounter with a bright light and temporary blindness, affirms that God calls and supports us personally, no matter the circumstances or trials we face. This should strengthen our resolve and give us hope, knowing that God is with us as He was with Paul.

Acts (Part Twenty-Six)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Paul is brought before King Agrippa to make his defense. Paul gives his testimony and preaches the gospel. Agrippa is impressed but Paul appeals to Caesar.

Lamentations (Part One; 1989)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

An introduction to the book of Lamentations, focusing on grim hardships (similar to Paul's perils) Christians may face in the future.

Acts (Part Twenty-Three)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Paul established his identity and credentials as a Jew in order to build a foundation from which to provide a logical defense of his 'apostasy'.

Day By Day

Sermonette by Clyde Finklea

Ecclesiastes teaches us to rejoice when times are good and to reflect soberly when times are bad. Adversity is a tool God uses to create something beautiful.

Acts (Part Thirteen)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

In Acts 13, the false prophet Elymas is cursed with blindness, providing the witness prompting the Proconsul Sergius Paulus to become converted.

Using God's Irrevocable Gifts for His Glory

Sermon by Mark Schindler

Luke had the gift of an investigative journalist, presenting the words in a plain, logical, orderly fashion, making matters crystal clear.

Acts (Part Twelve)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Paul and Barnabas developed the church in the cosmopolitan city of Antioch, the location from where the term 'Christian' originated.

Acts (Part Eighteen)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

On Paul's second evangelistic campaign, he preaches in southern Turkey and western Greece. He tries to go north but is prevented.

God's Investment in You

Sermon by Mark Schindler

God wants to protect His investment in us, calling those whom He knows will exercise the zeal, and willingness to sacrifice, to complete the project.

Acts (Part Twenty-Seven)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Agrippa was knowledgeable about Jewish customs, so Festus brought him in to hear Paul's case, which lincluded his conversion and ministry.

Why Hebrews Was Written (Part Two)

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

Jesus Christ perfectly fulfilled His spiritual responsibilities and can now aid us in fulfilling ours, which includes keeping God's commandments.

Facing Times of Stress: When God is Silent (Part Four)

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Paul demonstrated inner peace during turmoil, showing consistency in times of instability and faith in God during persecution, fulfilling the role God gave him.

Called To Be Saints (Part One)

CGG Weekly by David C. Grabbe

One of the greatest blessings we have been given as Christians is our calling by God. Jesus declared that only the Father determines who comes to the Son.

Acts (Part Eleven)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

The conversion of Cornelius is nearly as pivotal as the original Pentecost because the Gentiles are given the same portal of salvation offered to Israel.

Benjamin: Son of the Right Hand

Article by Staff

We know a lot about Joseph, but we tend to know precious little about his younger brother Benjamin. Here is what the Bible shows about him.

Facing Times of Stress: When God Is Silent (Part Three)

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Acts 27 teaches that we must distinguish among several types of suffering. Regardless of the type of suffering, we must remember that God will deliver us.

The Fifth Teacher (Part One)

CGG Weekly by David C. Grabbe

Belief always produces conduct, and thus, ungodly behavior signals the presence or influence of a false teacher. Who was the false teacher in Corinth?

Acts (Part Two)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Our historical and theological roots are advanced in a polished, chronological narrative (Acts), perhaps designed as a trial document authored by Luke.

Acts (Part One)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

The book of Acts could have been an exculpatory trial document designed to vindicate Paul and the early church, showing that Christianity was not a threat.

Chosen Instruments of God

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Ted E. Bowling

Paul was chosen, but Ananias was also chosen. Ananias's role was like a Jew living in Nazi Germany, ordered by God to minister to a repentant SS officer.

Don't Give Up (2015)!

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Have you ever wanted to just give up? Have trials weighed you down to the point of despair? Is old age sapping the strength and determination?

Suffering Disgrace For Christ's Name

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

We can always expect new challenges, including persecution, and must never be content with standing still, but must press on to spiritual maturity.

Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Nineteen)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Ecclesiastes 7 contains a series of 'this is better than that' observations. Wisdom seems to carry more sadness and sorrow than mirth or foolishness.

God Has Faith in You

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John O. Reid

It can be encouraging to us that our patriarchs and the prophets had serious doubts, but God overrode all their fears in accomplishing His purpose.

Acts (Part Twenty-Two)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Paul's insistence that a relationship with God could not be established by keeping the law did not lead to the conclusion that the law had been done away.

Acts (Part Seventeen)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Paul, by circumcising Timothy, demonstrates a reluctance to flaunt his religious liberty, preferring instead to exercise cautious conservative expediency.

Acts (Part Ten)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

The martyrdom of Stephen had the paradoxical effect of spreading the Gospel into Gentile venues, enabling individuals like Cornelius to be added to Christ.

Tithing: First Tithe

Bible Study by Martin G. Collins

Many churches understand tithing but do not believe that God commands them for today. However, tithing has always been God's way of financing His work on earth.

Anticipation

Sermonette by Joseph B. Baity

In Carly Simon's song 'Anticipation,' she wonders whether the present moment of joy will last into the future or turn into disillusionment.

Facing Times of Stress: When God Is Silent (Part Two)

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

What appeared to be a series of judicial set-backs for Paul was actually the outworking of God to place him before even higher levels of secular leadership.

Acts (Part Twenty-Five)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Had Paul not appealed to Caesar, Agrippa (moved by Paul's testimony and convinced of his innocence) would have set him free. But God had other plans.

Acts (Part Twenty)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Paul's success at promoting the Way started to undermine the prosperity of vendors promoting the worship of Diana, leading to a riotous assembly in her temple.

Why Hebrews Was Written (Part Seven)

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

The epistle of Hebrews is so vital to Christians in the first century and now because it explains the unique place and power of Christianity's High Priest.

Facing Times of Stress: When God Is Silent (Part One)

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Paradoxically, when God seems to be silent, He is feverishly at work micro-managing what otherwise appears as insignificant details.

Godly Tact and Diplomacy

Article by David F. Maas

Humans are very adept at causing offense. But as Christians, we must learn the art of tact and diplomacy that works toward unity among the brethren.

Hebrews: Its Background (Part Five)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

When Hebrews was written, the newly converted Jew to the Way encountered persecution from the established religion and culture similar to what we experience.

The Fifth Teacher

Sermonette by David C. Grabbe

Corinth had four positive teachers, yet a mysterious fifth teacher was also influencing them and instilling beliefs that were the source of all the bad fruit.

Made By Fire

Sermonette by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

We are a kingdom of priests, called to be living sacrifices, ardently serving God, with a view of being consumed or used up in service to Him.

An Unpayable Debt and Obligation

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

When God calls us and redeems us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we suddenly come under obligation—a debt we cannot pay but overshadows all we do.

Deuteronomy (Part 6)

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

God is absolutely faithful to finish what He started, knowing the end from the beginning. Our strength is dependent upon the relationship we have with God.

Barnabas: Son of Encouragement and Consolation

Article by Martin G. Collins

Everyone needs a little encouragement on a regular basis. Barnabas tends to be one of the forgotten apostles, yet he provides a sterling example of encouraging others.

Acts (Part Twenty-One)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

The phrase 'first day of the week' is used 8 times in scripture, but none does away with the Sabbath nor establishes Sunday as the 'Lords Day.'