1 Corinthians 15:8

And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.

And {G1161} last {G2078} of all {G3956} he was seen {G3700} of me also {G2504}, as {G5619} of one born out of due time {G1626}.

and last of all he was seen by me, even though I was born at the wrong time.

And last of all He appeared to me also, as to one of untimely birth.

and last of all, as to the child untimely born, he appeared to me also.

Commentary

In 1 Corinthians 15:8, the Apostle Paul concludes his list of witnesses to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, adding his own unique testimony. This verse is crucial for understanding Paul's perception of his apostolic call and the powerful, transformative nature of his encounter with the risen Lord.

Context

Chapter 15 of 1 Corinthians is a foundational discourse on the resurrection, a core doctrine Paul was defending against skepticism within the Corinthian church. Paul systematically presents evidence for Christ's resurrection, beginning with His death, burial, and subsequent appearances to various individuals and groups (1 Corinthians 15:5-7). He lists Peter, the twelve, over five hundred brethren at once, James, and all the apostles. Paul then places his own experience last, emphasizing its distinct nature and the overwhelming grace involved in his calling.

Key Themes

  • The Veracity of the Resurrection: Paul's personal encounter with the resurrected Christ serves as undeniable proof, strengthening the argument that the resurrection is not a myth but a historical event with profound implications.
  • Paul's Unique Apostolic Call: Unlike the other apostles who walked with Jesus during His earthly ministry, Paul's encounter was post-resurrection and sudden, a direct intervention of God that transformed him from a persecutor of Christians into the greatest missionary of the early church. This highlights the extraordinary nature of his divine commission.
  • God's Grace and Sovereignty: The verse powerfully illustrates God's ability to choose and use anyone, even those who seem least likely. Paul, who considered himself "least of the apostles" (1 Corinthians 15:9) due to his past persecution of the church, was called by God's sovereign grace.

Linguistic Insight

The phrase "born out of due time" translates the Greek word ektrลma (แผ”ฮบฯ„ฯฯ‰ฮผฮฑ). This term literally refers to something prematurely born, an abortion, or a miscarriage. Paul uses this vivid and somewhat shocking imagery to describe himself with profound humility and self-awareness. It conveys several layers of meaning:

  • Irregularity and Abnormality: His call was not "normal" or "on schedule" compared to the other apostles. He did not follow Jesus during His earthly ministry.
  • Unworthiness and Humility: It reflects his deep sense of unworthiness, likely due to his past as a persecutor. He felt like an "unfit" or "unripe" addition to the apostolic company.
  • Suddenness and Divine Intervention: His transformation was abrupt and miraculous, a sudden spiritual birth rather than a gradual development. This highlights the singular power of Christ's appearance to him on the road to Damascus.

Practical Application

Paul's testimony in this verse offers profound encouragement and lessons for believers today:

  • Personal Encounters Transform: Just as Paul was radically changed by encountering the risen Christ, personal encounters with God continue to transform lives, regardless of one's past.
  • God Uses the Unlikely: This verse is a powerful reminder that God's calling is not limited by human qualifications, past mistakes, or perceived unworthiness. He often chooses the weak and despised to accomplish His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).
  • Humility in Service: Paul's humble self-description, despite his immense contributions, serves as an example for all who serve God. True service flows from a recognition of God's grace, not personal merit.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 9:1

    ยถ Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?

  • Acts 26:16

    But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;

  • Acts 22:18

    And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me.

  • Acts 18:9

    Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:

  • Acts 9:3

    And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:

  • Acts 9:6

    And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord [said] unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

  • Acts 9:17

    And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, [even] Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.
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