A man apart!

We know that Paul never physically met Jesus in person. His only encounter was a visionary one with the ascended Jesus, on the road to Demascus.

At this point he became the 13th Apostle, and the one chosen to take the gospel out to the gentiles.

But in these verses from his letter to the church in Galatia, it's clear that Paul didn't mix much with the 12 original apostles. So much so that he swears on it!

Galatians 1:15-20
'But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being. I did not go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went into Arabia. Later I returned to Damascus. Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Cephas (Peter) and stayed with him fifteen days. I saw none of the other apostles – only James, the Lord’s brother. I assure you before God that what I am writing to you is no lie'.

Calatians 1:15-20

Paul swears that the gospel message he received, came directly from Jesus as a divine revelation and had no input from talking with the 12 apostles, or receiving their approval for it!

In Galatians 2:6 it also appears that Paul didn't hold much of an opinion of the Apostles in Jerusalem! (Peter, James &John)

'As for those who were held in high esteem – whatever they were makes no difference to me; God does not show favouritism – they added nothing to my message.' Gal 2:6

Harsh words indeed, especially considering that the guys he's talking about are the apostles who 'make no difference to me'.

So, it makes me ask, did Pauls two week stay with Peter result in him receiving a blessing of friendship and agreement to take his non-jewish version of the gospel out to us, the gentiles?

Have a great week, and God bless,

Trev.