The Unity of Jesus and Paul: A Point-by-Point Comparison
Introduction
Scholars and skeptics have debated the perceived contradictions between Jesus Christ’s and the apostle Paul’s teachings for centuries. This article aims to demonstrate that, far from contradicting each other, Jesus and Paul’s teachings are in perfect harmony. We will examine three key areas of their teachings and show how Paul’s claim of divine authority supports continuity rather than contradiction.
Salvation by Faith
Jesus’ Teaching
Jesus emphasized the importance of faith in salvation. In John 3:16, He states:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Paul’s Teaching
Paul echoes this sentiment in Ephesians 2:8-9:
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Unity: Both Jesus and Paul emphasize that salvation comes through faith, not works. They present faith as the conduit through which God’s grace operates in the believer’s life.
Law and Grace
Jesus’ Teaching
In Matthew 5:17-20, Jesus says:
“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
Paul’s Teaching
Paul, in Romans 3:28, states:
“For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.”
And in Galatians 2:16:
“…know that the works of the law do not justify a person, but by faith in Jesus Christ.”
Unity: While this might seem contradictory at first glance, both Jesus and Paul affirm the law’s importance while emphasizing that salvation comes through faith. Jesus fulfills the law, making it possible for believers to be justified by faith, as Paul teaches.
Love and Forgiveness
Jesus’ Teaching
Jesus emphasizes love and forgiveness throughout His ministry. In John 14:15, He says:
“If you love me, keep my commands.“
Paul’s Teaching
Paul echoes this in Romans 13:8-10, stating:
“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.”
Unity: Both Jesus and Paul teach that love is the fulfillment of the law and that obedience to God’s commands expresses love for Him.
Paul’s Claim of Divine Authority
Paul’s assertion that his teachings come directly from Christ supports the continuity between his message and Jesus’ teachings. In Galatians 1:11-12, he states:
“I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel I preached is not of human origin. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ.”
This claim suggests that Paul’s teachings are not a deviation from Jesus’ message but a divinely inspired continuation and elaboration of it.
Conclusion
Through this point-by-point comparison, we can see that Jesus and Paul’s teachings are not contradictory but complementary. Their messages on salvation by faith, the relationship between law and grace, and the importance of love and forgiveness align perfectly. Paul’s claim of divine authority further reinforces the unity and continuity of their teachings.
As scholars and students of theology, it’s crucial to understand this harmony to gain a more comprehensive view of Christian doctrine. Rather than seeing Paul as diverging from Jesus’ teachings, we should recognize him as expounding upon and applying Jesus’ message to a broader context.
About the Author
Meet Bruce Mitchell – a devoted servant of God’s Word and compassionate guide to his flock. As a Pastor, Bible teacher, and writer, Bruce shares heavenly wisdom for daily life.
Educated at Biola University and Dallas Theological Seminary, Bruce leads Agapao Allelon Ministries and writes at Allelon.us. His mission is to weave God’s love into society’s fabric through the principle of Loving One Another.
Inspired by 1 Peter 4:8, Bruce believes love can transform enemies into friends. He teaches that knowing God requires love (1 John 4:7-8) and urges us to love as Jesus did (Ephesians 4:31-32).
Bruce embodies unwavering faith and deep empathy. He offers wisdom from personal experiences and inspires and comforts others. Join him in exploring God’s word and applying it to your life. Let’s share love, as Jesus commanded!
Pastor | Bible Teacher | Speaker | Writer | Podcaster | Advocate for God’s Mercy, Grace & Love | Biola University & Dallas Theological Seminary alumnus | 1 Peter 4:8
