Today we are considering the great theological ability which God gave him to help and instruct others.
Paul and the Godhead. Paul believed and taught the trinity of three divine Persons. The three mentions in the New Testament of the word Godhead come from him; they are Acts 17. 29; Rom. 1. 20; Col. 2. 9. He gives clear reference to the divine attributes, applied to each of the Trinity. Against the Arian error there is a clear exposition of the deity of Christ and against the Docetist, of true humanity of Christ. A careful consideration of the Morphe of Philippians chapter 2, the Eikon of Colossians chapter 1 and the Character of Hebrews chapter 1 (allowing that Paul was the author) in their respective contexts will show the theological skill with which he exposed such errors.
Sin and Law. He gives an explanation of the nature of sin, and the present position, power and application of the Law. Also, when and how sin came, its effect and ultimate judgement. Sin, iniquity and transgression are defined and whilst all of the above are shown objectively, the apostle also deals with them subjectively relating them to the ongoing life of the Christian.
The Gospel. A full exposition of the doctrine of the gospel is found in the epistles of Paul. The fundamentals of Redemption, Atonement, Justification, Sanctification, Election, Adoption and Glorification are clearly set forth in context, as is the mystery of the church which is His body.
The Holy Spirit. Much truth regarding the Spirit’s Person and work is found in Paul’s letters. He writes of the Spirit being the ‘anointing’, ’seal’ and 'earnest’ within the believer, each having a threefold reference. The 'baptism’ in the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, is clearly explained by him.
Practical Evidences of his Theology. God had gifted him to be a teacher. His first public service was at Antioch where they ‘taught much people’, Acts 11. 26. Later, when ‘certain men came down from Judaea’ and taught wrong doctrine, Paul and Barnabas disputed with them, and later convinced those at Jerusalem of the unsoundness of their teaching. His letters to young assemblies were to establish them.
