I’ve read several more chapters that Paul wrote, and my feelings about him have changed, subtly, slowly. I can feel his urgency and conviction now, ringing through letter after letter. He considered these churches his offering to God. There is so much passion in them, and I can understand that, given how I feel about mentoring my children and my students.
He was also, in seems, virtually growing a religion, trying to articulate the fundamental tenets of Christianity. I don’t really understand why he felt a need to do that, although I’m gathering that there were many sects that sprang up after Christ died. Was Paul feeling pressed to represent the true Christ? Was he afraid that Christ’s message would be lost? I’m guessing so, since he seems to feel so much urgency.
It’s awesome how many letters he wrote. Over and over again….reassuring, storming, warning, cajoling. They are really highly personal letters, and I feel like I’m going into someone’s private papers….almost too intimate.
