02.0. Paul, Apostle to the Gentiles, Least in the Kingdom

Paul Apostle to the Gentiles
Least in the Kingdom? by Clint Branham - AwakenedChurch.com email: clint@AwakenedChurch.com Introduction: Biblical Inerrancy and the New Testament

Almost all Christian denominations teach biblical inerrancy: all Scripture is without error and true. I have no issue with this concept at all; in fact, I wholeheartedly agree with it. However, I take exception with the modern Church’s implementation of this concept as it is applied to the New Testament.

Before you label me a heretic, please hear me out.

We all approach the New Testament from the standpoint that it was written to you, or me, or a group of which we have been a part, or that church down the street. And because it was written to me, I instinctively understand all of the concepts and issues that are being discussed. I was even urged to substitute my name in certain passages to make it “real to me.”

Consciously or unconsciously we have all been lazy in our study and reading of Scripture. We never take the time to learn about the cultural practices, mindset, religious practices, language and historical background of the biblical time period. In the past when I read seemingly contradictory passages, I would simply shrug and wonder what it meant, or just call it a “mystery,” but I can no longer ignore these types of passages. The following passages are some of the Scriptures with which I am currently wrestling.

Paul stated that the law is “done away with” and he appears to promote a “no-law” doctrine.

Romans 10:4 KJV For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.

Jesus appears to promote the opposite “pro-law” doctrine:

Matthew 5:19 KJV Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. On the other hand, Paul says:

1 Corinthians 11:1 ESV Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ. In this paper I will attempt to present evidence and evaluate the Scripture adherence to either the “no-law” doctrine or the “pro-law” doctrine. Is it possible for us to reconcile these two opposite passages and still align with biblical inerrancy?

Here are a few formatting conventions: I will color my commentary blue, as I have in this preface. Scripture will either be black or red, depending on whether they are the words of Christ. Any italics, bold, and underlining, or any combinations of these, are my attempt to add emphasis. Scripture References or Strong numbers will be Green.