Introduction: The Authority of Paul’s Writings

The Apostle Paul remains one of the most influential figures in Christianity, yet also one of the most criticized. His letters, written between c. 49 C.E. and 67 C.E., form the largest portion of the New Testament, shaping doctrine, ethics, and Christian practice. Critics claim Paul’s writings are harsh, contradictory, or even inconsistent with the teachings of Jesus. Others accuse him of inventing Christianity or distorting its original message. However, a careful application of the historical-grammatical method demonstrates that Paul’s writings are fully consistent with the Old Testament, aligned with the teachings of Christ, and divinely inspired. The “difficult” passages often objected to are neither contradictions nor errors, but rather profound theological truths and practical applications requiring context and careful explanation.

---

Paul’s Teaching on Justification by Faith Alone

Romans 3:28 declares, “For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.” Critics argue this contradicts James 2:24, “You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.” The apparent difficulty disappears when context is applied. Paul emphasizes that justification (being declared righteous before God) is by faith in Christ, not by works of the Mosaic Law. James, however, addresses false faith that produces no works, insisting that genuine faith results in action. Paul himself affirms this in Galatians 5:6: “The only thing that counts is faith working through love.” Far from contradicting, Paul and James complement each other: salvation is by faith, and true faith produces works.

---

Paul’s Teaching on the Role of Women

Passages such as 1 Corinthians 14:34–35 (“Women should keep silent in the churches”) and 1 Timothy 2:12 (“I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man”) have drawn intense criticism. Modern readers view these as oppressive. Yet Paul grounds his teaching not in cultural bias but in creation order (1 Timothy 2:13; Genesis 2:18–24). Women in the first-century church prayed, prophesied, and served (1 Corinthians 11:5; Romans 16:1–2), but the role of authoritative teaching and governance in the church was reserved for men. This teaching upholds God’s design for leadership while affirming the equal value and dignity of women in Christ (Galatians 3:28).

---

Paul on Slavery and Obedience

Ephesians 6:5 instructs, “Slaves, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling.” Critics charge Paul with endorsing slavery. Yet Paul addresses the social realities of the Roman world without endorsing its abuses. His teaching transformed the master-slave relationship by commanding masters to treat slaves justly (Ephesians 6:9; Colossians 4:1). Paul condemned slave-trading in 1 Timothy 1:10. His letter to Philemon (c. 61 C.E.) presents Onesimus, a runaway slave, as a “beloved brother” (Philemon 16). Rather than abolishing slavery politically, Paul planted principles that undermined it morally, ultimately leading to its rejection where Christianity spread.

---

Paul on Governing Authorities and Submission

Romans 13:1–2 commands, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God.” Critics argue this justifies tyranny. However, Paul writes in the context of God’s sovereignty over human affairs. Governments maintain order and justice in a fallen world (Romans 13:3–4). Submission is the general principle, but never at the expense of obedience to God (Acts 5:29). Paul himself resisted authorities when commanded to disobey God (Acts 16:35–40). Romans 13 calls for respect toward lawful authority while acknowledging God as the ultimate authority.

---

Paul on Sexual Morality and Homosexuality

Romans 1:26–27 condemns homosexual practices, a passage often attacked as intolerant. Paul describes same-sex relations as “contrary to nature.” The Greek text (para physin) indicates deviation from God’s created design (Genesis 1:27; 2:24). Critics claim Paul reflects cultural prejudice. However, his argument rests not in cultural convention but in creation order. Paul consistently condemns sexual immorality in all forms (1 Corinthians 6:9–10; 1 Timothy 1:10). The biblical teaching is not hatred but truth: sexual immorality separates humanity from God, but repentance and faith bring forgiveness and transformation (1 Corinthians 6:11).

---

Paul on Head Coverings in Worship

1 Corinthians 11:2–16 raises the question of head coverings for men and women. Paul teaches that women should cover their heads while praying or prophesying, while men should not. Critics dismiss this as cultural. Yet Paul roots his argument in creation order and the principle of authority (1 Corinthians 11:3, 7–9). The practice symbolized submission in Corinth’s cultural context, but the principle is timeless: recognition of God’s order in worship. While cultural expressions may differ today, the underlying truth of gender distinctions and respect for authority remains unchanged.

---

Paul on Eating Meat Offered to Idols

In 1 Corinthians 8–10, Paul addresses eating meat sacrificed to idols. He acknowledges idols are nothing (1 Corinthians 8:4) but warns against causing weaker believers to stumble. Critics see inconsistency in his teaching, since in 1 Corinthians 10:21 he forbids participation in idol feasts. The resolution is contextual: eating meat sold in the market with no association to idol worship is permissible, but participating in idol rituals is forbidden. Paul teaches liberty constrained by love—Christians are free in conscience but must not use freedom to harm others’ faith.

---

Paul on the Resurrection Body

1 Corinthians 15:35–44 discusses the resurrection body. Some skeptics argue Paul contradicted himself by describing the resurrection body as “spiritual” (v. 44) while elsewhere insisting on bodily resurrection (Romans 8:11). The difficulty is linguistic. The Greek sōma pneumatikon does not mean immaterial but a body transformed and empowered by the Spirit. Paul contrasts the mortal body with the imperishable, not physicality with immateriality. The resurrection body is real, physical, and immortal, patterned after Christ’s resurrected body (Luke 24:39; Philippians 3:21).

---

Paul on Predestination and God’s Sovereignty

Romans 9:18 declares, “So then He has mercy on whomever He wills, and He hardens whomever He wills.” Critics claim Paul teaches fatalism. However, Paul rejects deterministic fatalism and affirms human responsibility (Romans 10:9–13). God’s hardening, as with Pharaoh, is judicial—confirming individuals in their freely chosen rebellion. Election is not arbitrary but consistent with God’s foreknowledge and plan (Romans 8:29). Paul balances divine sovereignty with human responsibility, affirming both without contradiction.

---

Paul on Celibacy and Marriage

1 Corinthians 7 presents Paul’s preference for celibacy yet affirms marriage as honorable. Critics see inconsistency. Paul explains that celibacy allows undivided devotion to God (v. 32–35), but marriage is a divine institution and protection against immorality (v. 2). His counsel reflects situational wisdom during a time of distress (v. 26), not a universal command. Both marriage and celibacy are gifts from God, each with unique purposes.

---

Paul’s Harsh Tone Toward False Teachers

Galatians 1:8–9 contains Paul’s strongest words: “If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.” Critics label this intolerant. Yet Paul defends the exclusivity of the gospel of Christ. False gospels endanger eternal salvation; therefore, Paul’s uncompromising tone reflects divine urgency. His severity is rooted in love for truth and souls, not personal animosity.

---

Paul’s Teaching on the Law

Galatians 3:24 states, “The law was our guardian until Christ came.” Critics argue Paul disparages the Mosaic Law. However, Paul affirms the Law’s goodness (Romans 7:12) but emphasizes its role as temporary, pointing to Christ. The Law exposed sin but could not save (Romans 3:20). With Christ’s coming, believers are no longer under the Law’s covenantal obligations but under grace (Romans 6:14). Paul’s teaching magnifies the Law’s purpose while showing its fulfillment in Christ.

---

Conclusion: Paul’s Teachings Stand Firm

The Apostle Paul’s toughest teachings are often those most misunderstood. Far from contradicting Jesus or undermining Scripture, Paul clarifies and applies God’s Word in profound and practical ways. His writings reflect divine authority, timeless truth, and pastoral wisdom. When read in context, Paul’s difficult passages strengthen faith and demonstrate the unity and coherence of God’s revelation.

You May Also Enjoy

Difficulties In the Bible – Really?

See more

About the Author

CLICK LINKED IMAGE TO VISIT ONLINE STORE

CLICK TO SCROLL THROUGH OUR BOOKS