The Apostle Paul is often interpreted as providing clarifications or theological expansions on the teachings of Jesus, rather than directly refuting Him. However, some scholars and critics argue that there are instances where Paul's writings appear to differ from or reinterpret the words of Jesus. Below are some examples where these perceived tensions arise, with explanations for context:

1. Justification by Faith vs. Works

• Jesus' Teaching (Faith and Works):

  • Matthew 19:16-22: Jesus tells the rich young ruler to keep the commandments and sell his possessions to follow Him, implying a connection between actions and salvation.

  • Matthew 7:21: "Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father."

• Paul's Teaching (Faith Alone):

  • Romans 3:28: "For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law."

  • Ephesians 2:8-9: "For by grace you have been saved through faith... not a result of works."

• Tension: Paul emphasizes salvation by faith apart from works, which some view as contradicting Jesus’ emphasis on actions as evidence of faith. Others argue that Paul clarifies that salvation begins with faith but results in good works (see Ephesians 2:10).

2. The Role of the Mosaic Law

• Jesus' Teaching (Fulfillment of the Law):

  • Matthew 5:17-19: "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them... Not the smallest letter will disappear until everything is accomplished."

• Paul's Teaching (Freedom from the Law):

  • Romans 6:14: "You are not under law but under grace."

  • Galatians 3:23-25: "Now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian [the Law]."

• Tension: Jesus affirms the enduring importance of the Law, while Paul argues that faith in Christ supersedes the Law for salvation. This is often interpreted as Paul addressing Gentile believers who were not bound by the Mosaic covenant.

3. Divorce and Remarriage

• Jesus' Teaching (Strict Prohibition):

  • Mark 10:11-12: "Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery."

• Paul's Teaching (Specific Exception):

  • 1 Corinthians 7:12-15: Paul permits divorce if an unbelieving spouse chooses to leave, a concession Jesus does not explicitly mention.

• Tension: While Jesus provides a stricter rule, Paul introduces a pastoral exception, which some view as an adaptation for specific circumstances.

4. Eschatology (Second Coming of Christ)

• Jesus' Teaching (Imminent Kingdom):

  • Mark 13:30: "Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened."

• Paul's Teaching (Ongoing Expectation):

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:2-3: Paul emphasizes the unpredictability of the Second Coming, saying, "The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night."

• Tension: Some interpret Paul's writings as adjusting expectations about the timing of Jesus’ return, especially as years passed without its fulfillment.

5. Teachings on Wealth

• Jesus' Teaching (Renunciation of Wealth):

  • Luke 14:33: "Those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples."

• Paul's Teaching (Moderation):

  • 1 Timothy 6:17-19: Paul advises the wealthy to be generous and share, without insisting they relinquish all possessions.

• Tension: Paul appears to take a less radical approach, encouraging responsible use of wealth rather than total renunciation.

6. Women's Roles in Ministry

• Jesus' Teaching (Inclusive Ministry):

  • Jesus includes women like Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and others as part of His ministry and allows them to sit as disciples (e.g., Luke 10:39).

• Paul's Teaching (Restrictions):

  • 1 Timothy 2:12: "I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet."

• Tension: While Jesus' ministry includes women in prominent roles, Paul's writings (or at least those attributed to him) impose restrictions on women’s leadership in the church. Some argue these reflect cultural adaptations.

Conclusion

The apparent differences between Paul and Jesus often stem from the distinct contexts they address. Jesus speaks primarily to Jews under the Mosaic Law, while Paul navigates the inclusion of Gentiles and the establishment of the early church in diverse cultural settings. These differences are often interpreted as complementary rather than contradictory, with Paul building upon Jesus' teachings to address new circumstances.