Why do you think this way? I'd be interested to see your concise outline of how one gains salvation in a world of sin. It seems like you're looking for a loophole. Is there something in your life you're struggling with that makes you seek justification? Help me understand your reasoning behind this.
I strongly disagree with your interpretation; I just don't see it as biblical.
The assertion that only Paul is the Apostle and Minister to us today overlooks several important aspects of the Bible’s broader message. While Paul certainly had a special mission to the Gentiles, the idea that he is the only apostle with relevance to today's believers is not supported by Scripture.
All Scripture is useful for teaching: The Bible tells us that "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16). This means that the teachings of James, Peter, John, and the other apostles are relevant and applicable to all believers, including those today. None of their writings can be discarded based on the idea that only Paul's teachings matter.
Jesus commissioned all the apostles: Yeshua (Jesus) commissioned all twelve apostles to preach the Gospel and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). This commandment was not exclusive to Paul. The original apostles, including Peter, James, and John, were charged with spreading the Gospel message as well. While Paul had a specific role in bringing the Gospel to the Gentiles (Romans 11:13), this did not invalidate the work or teachings of the other apostles.
James addresses how faith without works is dead: The book of James, often misrepresented in these debates, was not a contradiction to Paul's teachings on justification by faith. Instead, James emphasizes that true faith produces works (James 2:14-26). This complements Paul's teaching that we are saved by grace through faith, not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9), as Paul also affirmed that good works are the result of salvation, not the cause (Ephesians 2:10). James' teachings are valuable in showing the practical side of faith in action.
Paul acknowledges the importance of the other apostles: In Galatians 2:7-9, Paul affirms the legitimacy of Peter's ministry to the Jews (the "circumcised") while acknowledging his own calling to minister to the Gentiles (the "uncircumcised"). This shows that both ministries, Jewish and Gentile, are valid and part of God's plan. Paul never claimed exclusivity; rather, he emphasized that different apostles had different callings.
Peter's endorsement of Paul: The reference to 2 Peter 3:15-16 where Peter acknowledges Paul's wisdom is not an endorsement of Paul's exclusivity. Instead, Peter is affirming that Paul's writings are difficult to understand but are still Scripture, emphasizing the value of Paul's teachings without excluding his own or other apostles' writings.
The unity of the apostles: The early church was built on the foundation of the apostles (Ephesians 2:20), plural—not just Paul. While Paul had a unique role in ministering to the Gentiles, the message of Yeshua was spread and solidified through the work of all the apostles, who were in unity on the core tenets of faith (Acts 15:6-29).
In conclusion, the entire New Testament was written for believers across all generations. While Paul is vital for understanding the spread of the Gospel to the Gentiles, the teachings of the other apostles cannot be dismissed. They contribute to a holistic understanding of faith, salvation, and how we are to live as followers of Yeshua today.
