Did Paul Think of Himself As Another Christ?

Introduction

The Apostle Paul is one of the most influential figures in early Christianity, shaping much of Christian doctrine through his letters in the New Testament. However, scholars have long debated the extent of his self-perception and the role he saw himself playing within the early Christian movement. One of the more provocative interpretations comes from James D. Tabor, a historian of early Christianity, who has suggested that Paul may have seen himself as "another Christ" or as someone uniquely embodying Christ’s message and role. This article explores Tabor’s perspective on this issue, analyzing the evidence from Paul’s letters and its implications for understanding early Christianity.

Tabor’s Approach to Pauline Christianity

James D. Tabor, a scholar known for his work on the historical Jesus and early Christianity, has consistently argued that Paul’s view of himself went beyond that of a mere apostle or teacher. According to Tabor, Paul saw himself in an exalted role, one that in some ways mirrored that of Christ himself. This argument is built upon a close reading of Pauline texts, particularly passages where Paul speaks about his mystical experiences, his sufferings, and his role in the divine plan.

Tabor’s approach is rooted in historical-critical methods, analyzing Paul’s letters without the later theological overlay provided by orthodox Christianity. He argues that Paul’s own words provide hints that he saw himself not just as a servant of Christ but as someone who, in a profound way, was embodying Christ’s mission on Earth.

Paul’s Mystical Experiences and Christ-like Identity

One of the key pieces of evidence for Tabor’s claim is Paul’s frequent reference to his mystical experiences. In 2 Corinthians 12:1-7, Paul describes being "caught up to the third heaven," where he received divine revelations. This mystical encounter echoes the exalted status that early Christians attributed to the risen Christ.

Moreover, in Galatians 2:20, Paul makes the striking claim:

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me."

This passage suggests a deep identification with Christ, where Paul no longer distinguishes himself from Jesus but instead sees himself as embodying the very presence of Christ. According to Tabor, such statements indicate that Paul saw himself as not just a follower of Christ but as someone who, in a mystical and theological sense, was continuing Christ’s role.

Paul’s Sufferings as a Reflection of Christ’s Passion

Another major aspect of Tabor’s argument is Paul’s repeated emphasis on his own sufferings, which he presents as parallel to Christ’s passion. In 2 Corinthians 11:23-28, Paul lists his numerous hardships, including beatings, imprisonments, and shipwrecks. This suffering, Paul argues, is not just for the sake of spreading the gospel but is part of his very identity as a Christ-like figure.

In Colossians 1:24, Paul makes a particularly striking statement:

"Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions."

Tabor argues that this statement implies that Paul saw his own suffering as a continuation or completion of Christ’s work. Such an idea would suggest that Paul did not simply see himself as a preacher of Christ but as someone who was, in a real sense, participating in the redemptive work of Christ.

Paul as the Template for Christian Life

Beyond his mystical experiences and sufferings, Paul also presents himself as the template for Christian life. In 1 Corinthians 4:16 and 11:1, Paul explicitly tells his followers:

"Therefore I urge you to imitate me."

This is significant because rather than directing believers solely to Christ as their example, Paul asks them to imitate him. Tabor interprets this as an indication that Paul saw himself as embodying the role of Christ on Earth in a way that justified such imitation.

This notion of imitation goes beyond mere discipleship; it suggests that Paul believed he was representing Christ in a unique way. If Paul saw himself as another Christ figure, then his instructions to his followers would make more sense in this light.

The Implications of Tabor’s Thesis

If Tabor is correct that Paul saw himself as "another Christ," it has profound implications for our understanding of early Christianity. Traditionally, Paul is seen as the great evangelist who spread the message of Jesus. However, Tabor’s interpretation suggests that Paul may have considered himself as an indispensable figure in God’s plan—someone whose role was nearly as central as Christ’s.

This perspective also challenges traditional theological views that sharply distinguish between Jesus and Paul. Instead of merely preaching Christ, Paul may have believed that he was, in some sense, an extension of Christ’s presence on Earth. Such an understanding would place Paul’s letters in a different light, showing that his role was not just as a teacher of doctrine but as someone who saw himself as fulfilling a divine mission akin to Jesus’.

Criticisms and Counterarguments

Tabor’s argument is not without its critics. Many scholars argue that Paul’s statements about his identification with Christ should not be taken literally but rather as expressions of deep devotion. Others suggest that Paul’s language about suffering and imitation is meant to encourage believers rather than to elevate himself to Christ’s level.

Additionally, some theologians argue that Paul’s insistence on Christ’s uniqueness in salvation contradicts the idea that he saw himself as "another Christ." For instance, in 1 Corinthians 3:11, Paul explicitly states:

"For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ."

This passage suggests that Paul recognized a clear distinction between himself and Christ, making it difficult to argue that he saw himself as equal to Jesus.

Conclusion

James D. Tabor’s interpretation of Paul as "another Christ" offers a bold and thought-provoking perspective on the Apostle’s self-understanding. While his argument is built on strong textual evidence—especially regarding Paul’s mystical experiences, sufferings, and calls for imitation—it remains controversial within biblical scholarship.

Whether or not Paul saw himself as an extension of Christ’s role, his influence on Christianity is undeniable. His letters shaped Christian theology, and his self-perception, whatever it may have been, played a crucial role in how the early Christian movement understood its mission and identity. Tabor’s work invites us to rethink traditional interpretations and to explore the deeper complexities of Paul’s thought and legacy.