1 Corinthians 15:8
And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.
1 Corinthians 15:8
**VERSE REFERENCE**
1 Corinthians 15:8: "And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time."
**Meaning & Context** (200 words)
Paul identifies himself as an appearance of the risen Christ in a unique, almost paradoxical way: “as of one born out of due time.” This phrase signals that Paul’s encounter with the risen Jesus occurred outside the typical sequence of appearances to the Twelve, James, and others. Paul’s dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus (Acts 9) is the backdrop for this claim. He writes to remind the Corinthians that his apostleship is genuine, though unconventional, highlighting that God’s grace can exceed natural expectations and social conventions. The term also addresses potential tensions in Corinth about the legitimacy of Paul’s ministry relative to the earlier apostles, reassuring readers that the risen Jesus personally appeared to him and commissioned him to proclaim the gospel.
**Theological Significance** (150 words)
This verse broadens the scope of the resurrection narrative to include a striking, grace-driven call. It challenges human expectations of how and whom God uses. Theologically, it demonstrates that apostolic authority does not hinge on conventional order but on divine intervention and commission. It also foregrounds grace as the driving force in mission: Paul’s transformation and work arise not from merit but from God’s gracious initiative.
**Modern Application** (150 words)
- Embrace unlikely calls: God can use those who feel out of step with tradition or status. Your past does not disqualify you from being part of God’s mission.
- For communities: value diverse roadmaps to faith—conversion stories, not just polished resumes.
- Practical example: reflect on your own “out of time” moments—times when God surprised you or redirected plans—and consider how to share those testimonies to encourage others.
**Cross-References**: Acts 9:1-19; Galatians 1:15-16; 1 Timothy 1:12-17; 2 Corinthians 12:11-12; Romans 11:13