St Paul's writings

Most of the letters of St Paul were written whilst the Apostle was in prison or on one of his many journeys. His writings tell us of his intimate connections with the earliest church communities. These churches are alive and active, and, he knows that all who read his letters will absorb, as it were, their contents, live their message and very much feel Paul's faithfulness and apostolic authenticity. Words fail when we consider Paul for his insights are prophetic, and, enlivened by the Holy Spirit, they speak to pur hearts and lift our gaze to Jesus.

His letters are the oldest Christian writings. He is the first to determine the exposition of the Christian Faith especially concerning the mystery of redemption and salvation. As well, the Pauline epistles provide historical details such as the opposition of the Jews, the pagans and others.

To all this we must place his letters amongst the best examples of the best classical correspondence following, as they do, the educated form of his day "the name of the writer and his greeting", the content with recommendations and directives. And in all this there is a humanity that makes the reader, or more likely, the hearer, empathise with the author: tears and joy, beatings and floggings with whips, adventures on the high seas, and, several imprisonments.

Yet, even in chains and under close guard, and, on journeys from city to city, throughout Paul's letters, one cannot but feel the profound thanksgiving to God.

The most important truth presented in today's extract from First Corinthians is that God has saved us by that which is foolish in the eyes of the world, that is, the cross. Paul preaches the crucified Christ . And God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong, Why? Because if any should wish to boast let them boast only of God. Paul concludes his letter by stating that the proclamation of the Good News is not a matter of human logic but rather the grace and power of the Holy Spirit.

Issam John Darwish BSO, DD

Eparch

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