Introduction

Paul's Command refers to the various instructions and directives given by the Apostle Paul in his epistles to the early Christian churches and individuals. These commands are foundational to Christian doctrine and practice, reflecting Paul's role as a divinely appointed apostle to the Gentiles. His instructions cover a wide range of topics, including moral conduct, church order, spiritual gifts, and the nature of salvation.

Moral and Ethical Conduct

Paul's letters frequently address the moral and ethical behavior expected of believers. In Romans 12:1-2, Paul urges Christians to present their bodies as a living sacrifice and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. He emphasizes the importance of love, stating in 1 Corinthians 13:13, "And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love." In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul lists the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, as essential qualities for Christian living.

Church Order and Discipline

Paul provides specific instructions regarding the organization and discipline within the church. In 1 Timothy 3:1-13, he outlines the qualifications for overseers and deacons, emphasizing the need for leaders to be above reproach, self-controlled, and able to teach. In 1 Corinthians 14:40, Paul insists that "everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way," highlighting the importance of order in worship services. Additionally, in 1 Corinthians 5:11-13, he instructs the church to exercise discipline by removing those who persist in sinful behavior.

Spiritual Gifts and Worship

Paul's teachings on spiritual gifts are primarily found in 1 Corinthians 12-14. He explains that spiritual gifts are given by the Holy Spirit for the common good and that each believer has a role to play in the body of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 12:7, Paul states, "Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." He encourages the use of gifts in love and for edification, as seen in 1 Corinthians 14:12, "So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church."

Salvation and Justification

Central to Paul's theology is the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith. In Ephesians 2:8-9, he writes, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." Paul emphasizes that justification is not achieved by adherence to the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, as articulated in Romans 3:28, "For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the law."

Christian Liberty and Responsibility

Paul addresses the balance between Christian liberty and responsibility, particularly in his letters to the Corinthians and Galatians. In Galatians 5:13, he advises, "You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love." He warns against using freedom as a license for sin and encourages believers to act in love and consideration for others, as seen in 1 Corinthians 8:9, "Be careful, however, that your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak."

Conclusion

Paul's Command encompasses a comprehensive set of instructions that continue to guide and shape Christian belief and practice. His teachings, inspired by the Holy Spirit, provide a framework for living a life that honors God and reflects the transformative power of the Gospel.