The Struggle Between Jesus and Paul: Unraveling the Enigma of Paul’s Conversion

Uncommonly, one finds a detailed examination of Paul's conversion to Christianity, questioning why this pivotal moment has faced so much scrutiny and resistance by religious authorities and scholars alike. This exploration delves into the core issue of how Paul's 'blinding' and meeting with the Risen Christ on the Damascus Road are often ignored, leading us to consider whether it is only because the prevailing teachings do not align with the truth as revealed to Paul.

Church Fathers and the 'Who Telling the Truth' Question

The traditional pathway that started with the “Church Fathers” has been deeply flawed, particularly in its treatment of the central question: “who is telling the truth – Jesus or Paul?” This narrative was further reinforced by the Roman Church under the influence of Constantine, incorporating and further entrenching these doctrinal errors. Over the centuries, sincere and diligent Christians have sought to correct these teachings, with remarkable progress occurring in the last 100 years.

Holy Scriptures and Historical Context

The 12th letter to the Thessalonians was written by Paul around AD 53, approximately 16 years after his conversion. During this period, Paul was deeply obedient to the Risen Lord Jesus, working diligently despite facing considerable opposition from Jewish authorities. His correspondence with the churches served as both a form of encouragement and support, reflecting the challenges and resistance he faced.

Paul’s Journey and Resistance

Paul's travels, including his first Roman journey circa AD 61, were marked by the Romano-Jewish Synagogue witness. This confrontation led to the rejection of Jesus by the Jewish Elders and Teachers, prompting Paul to quote the prophecy in Isaiah 6:9–10 and enacting the condition of “Lo-Ammi” – “Not My People.” This has profound implications for the faithful until the fulfillment of the prophesied return of Christ in Zechariah 12:10, as affirmed in Romans 9:24–33. The only exception to this Jewish restriction lies in those who can see “through the Veil” set by God.

The Jewish Misunderstanding and God’s Mercy

The persistent belief among Jewish scholars that messiah has yet to come, and will be of human stock, has led to the rejection of Jesus as the messiah. This misunderstanding, as hinted at in Ezekiel 39:21-29, shows a deep denial of God’s plan for salvation. Nevertheless, God continues to save Israel, as mentioned in Ezekiel 39 and other scriptures, proving that He never breaks His word. This serves as a warning against disbelievers and a reminder of God's unwavering commitment to His word.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey of Paul's conversion and its implications cannot be understated. The story of why Paul spoke out against Jesus, and the resistance to his message, is a critical component in understanding the development and evolution of Christianity. Whether through the conscientious endeavors of modern Christian scholars or the sincere reflection of ancient believers, the quest for truth continues to unfold.