''Paul, an apostle--not from men nor through man, but
through Jesus Christ and God the Father (Galatians 1:1).''
People don't make other people Apostles or prophets or
preachers or teachers. God gives them those offices (Ephesians 4:11). God gives
these gifts to the Church.
Paul was appointed an Apostle by the risen Lord Jesus.
On the Damascus Road, Paul came face-to-face with the Savior he was
persecuting. Even St. Ananias was dubious of the Lord's call, but Jesus says,
"He is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and
the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for
My name's sake" (Acts 9:16-17).
Jesus appointed Paul to be an Apostle because he could
go between Jewish and Gentile culture in a way that the other Apostles
couldn't. Jesus appointed Paul to be sent to all nations, just as He commanded
the disciples before His Ascension (Matthew 28:18-19).
Paul was an Apostle of Jesus Christ. And for this
reason we listen to His words. Because the words are all about Jesus. Amen.
