—2 Corinthians 5:18— Paul says he’s been given the…
““—2 Corinthians 5:18— Paul says he’s been given the ministry of reconciling man to God. Didn’t Jesus do that in his ministry? Back in chapter 3—here —Paul says that God has qualified him to be the dispenser of his new covenant, but he doesn’t have a word to say about Jesus dispensing that covenant. And then he goes on to talk about the splendor of God’s work in sending the Spirit to inspire missionaries like himself. But where is the splendor of Jesus’ life and ministry? Wasn’t his work at least as important as Paul’s? Does Paul think God placed greater importance on his work than on Jesus’ work? “I thought Paul was always talking about how humble he was.” I pointed to my next passage: 2 Corinthians 6:2. “Well, how’s this for humility? Paul quotes Isaiah: ‘In the time of my favor I heard you, in the day of salvation I helped you.’ This is supposed to be God promising salvation. But when does this promise come to fulfillment? Was it in Jesus’ life and death? No. Paul points to his own ministry and says, ‘I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.’!””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Questions the relative importance of Paul’s and Jesus’ ministries, suggesting Paul emphasizes his own role over Jesus’.
In simple terms: Critiques Paul's focus versus Jesus'.
Key Takeaway
Reflect on balance of biblical emphasis.
Themes
theology
scriptural interpretation
humility
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
theological
analytical
When to use this quote
- church teaching
- academic study
- personal faith discussions
Key Concepts
Christology
ecclesiology
apostolic authority
Questions to Reflect On
- How should we weigh Paul's contributions against Jesus'?
- What does humility look like in ministry?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify complex theological debates.