Misinterpreting Paul--An Early Problem

Paul (Saul) of Tarsus, the famed Apostle of the New Testament was a fascinating figure. He was a very devout Pharisee who participated in the persecution of followers of Jesus until he encountered the risen Jesus and became a follower. Something profound happened in his theology, such that he went from being a stickler to the law of Moses, to fully embracing freedom in the Spirit in Christ, and thus dissociating himself from strict adherence to the Mosaic law.

Whatever it was, Paul proclaimed freedom from aspects of the Mosaic law, like most other followers of the faith who preceeded him. However, there was something about his message that seemed to lead to deep misunderstandings about the role of grace and the obligation to do good and holy works. 

James chapter 2 gives evidence to this concern. James famously challenges those who emphasize faith and reject works as an obligation of the Christian life. He declares that faith without works is dead. It is a not-so-subtle reference to Paul. Perhaps even a rebuke, not to Paul but to the flavor his reputed doctrine. 2 Peter also explicitly mentions Paul and his wisdom, but noting that his doctrine is hard to understand and that people have twisted his words.

Now, it would seem that this concern with Paul being misinterpreted was the concern of those from a distance, but Paul himself recognized that his teachings and practices were being misinterpreted.

Romans 3 
"5 But if our injustice serves to confirm the justice of God, what should we say? That God is unjust to inflict wrath on us? (I speak in a human way.) 6 By no means! For then how could God judge the world? 7 But if through my falsehood God’s truthfulness abounds to his glory, why am I still being condemned as a sinner? 8 And why not say (as some people slander us by saying that we say), “Let us do evil so that good may come”? Their condemnation is deserved!"

Paul's misfortune was in the fact that his teaching was very much tied to his personal testimony. He understood his prior theology and practice and it is in the context of understanding the value and blessing of the Torah, that he can teach grace and freedom in the Spirit. Paul's preaching was as much about being a daily banal witness for Christ, as it was about declaring grace and truth in Christ through his proclamation. Now if one got the latter without the forner, then one misinterpretes Paul.  

So before anyone speaks about faith, grace, and freedom in the Spirit in Paul, one must first commit to imitating Paul. And what would that look like?

Romans 2:7 "7 to those who by patiently doing good seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life;"

Seems like works--doing good--wins out and the overdone emphasis on faith and grace, slanders Paul.