From persecutor of the Church to Gospel proclaimer

Far too often we read the Bible with the tendency of oversimplification. My grandfather has always taken the stance of wanting his faith to be like that "of a child" and I would always argue that even Jesus "grew in wisdom and stature before God and man" (Luke 2:52). That is one of the reasons why I like to read Paul's letters; it appeals to all varieties of readers. In Galatians 1:13-24 we see Paul mention his own conversion from being a persecutor of the Church to Gospel proclaimer. In 1:20 Paul says "In what I am writing to you, before God, I do not lie!". This same expression is also found in other letters that Paul desires to bring home a very valuable and important lesson for the hearers (Rom. 9:1; 1 Tim. 2:7; 2 Cor. 11:31): Why?

In that oh so important phrase is a puzzle that theologians have considered as typical of Paul and that offers so much insight into what Paul is really trying to bring home. A common type of writing in ancient times is a structure called a chiasmus. In this style the writer will structure his argument in such a way to highlight a specific point. It is best evident when analyzing a text like Galatians 1:10-2:14:

A. But when God set Paul apart for the Gentiles (1:15-17)

B. Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem (1:18-20)

C. Then I went to (the Gentiles) in Syria and Cilicia (1:21-24)

B' Then after fourteen years I went up to Jerusalem (2:1-10)

A' But when Cephas set himself apart from the Gentiles (2:11-14)

Do you see the progression? I believe this is a very well organized pattern of thought that is indicative of Paul and his letter writing. Why? It is because Paul wants, yet again, to stress that he has been set apart not for the Jews, which he can easily identify with, but with the Gentiles that were not yet accepted into the Church.

This is highlighted that much more when in the next passages of scripture Paul is confirmed by James, Peter, and John to continue in furthering the gospel. What a beautiful illustration of the body of believers covering each other with encouragement to pursue the gifts that God has placed in your life. Many of us have been given a specific vision by God to minister. That ministry may take many different forms of service and means of accomplishment. Paul certainly would not discredit people or organizations that look or act different in ministry but would, I believe, seek to find if "grace was given" (2:9). Why then do we look at ministries and seek out the numbers, look at the exterior and say how accomplished they are, or pick up a new book by a blooming young pastor about church growth. Try looking into a classroom where the best ministry comes through authentic conversation and it's the teacher that is being blessed.

What I am writing to you, before God, I do not lie! Amen.