Paul and False Apostles

Paul and False Apostles

Introduction

In this paper, we would discuss the Paul and the false apostles. The paper would be based on the judgment of the opinion of Paul. It would also discuss what the false apostles had against Paul. Little has been known about Paul except what he says about himself in the Acts or the letters he wrote. Paul was also known as Saul of Tarsus.

Discussion

Recognizing the Apostles

According to Revelation 2:2, Jesus praised the Ephesians church for what it tested those who call themselves apostles and are considered as liars. Furthermore, in 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 Paul again, speaking of some employees of the Corinthians describes them as false apostles, deceitful workers and the apostles of Christ.

He further commented on this subject: "And no wonder, for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light, and it is not strange if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works."Thus, it becomes clear need in this case to test those who call themselves apostles and determine if they are unable to pass the test. They are rejected as liars and Jesus blames it on the Church. Since, the false apostles are rejected it is necessary to learn how to identify those who are real. In this regard, there is a need to know what is really meant by apostle. 

The literal translation of the Greek word apostle is “the one who was expelled”. The man whom no one has expelled cannot be an apostle. In Ephesians 1:22-23, Paul says that Jesus was made head over everything for the church. Thus, it is Jesus being the head of the church sent the apostles. However, in 2nd Corinthians 3:17 Paul says:"The Lord is the Spirit (the Holy Spirit)". This means that Jesus (Lord of the Church) and the Holy Spirit (God in the Church). An example of this is that some members in Antioch were appointed and sent to the apostles:"At Antioch, in the church, there were some prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manali, of Herod the tetrarch and Saul.  They served as the Lord and fasted as the Holy Ghost except Barnabas and Saul. When they fasted and prayed and laid their hands on they were sent forth by the Holy Spirit who went down to Seleucia and from there they sailed to Cyprus. (Acts 13:1-4). Jesus being the head of the Church acted through the Holy Spirit which is considered as divine, reliable and personal representative of the Church.

From the very beginning, all five men mentioned in Acts 13:1 were called prophets and teachers. After Paul and Barnabas were sent they were called apostles for example, in Acts 14:14: "But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of it”

Paul and Barnabas were right to be called apostles due to the fact that they were expelled from Antioch. Furthermore, Acts 16:1-4 described how Timothy was taken by Paul and was sent as a member of ...