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salingcrew
, August 02, 2013
I had the privilege to meet and hear Reza Aslan at his book signing at Powell's. However, he is outright dishonest in what he says and writes. Consider pages 185 & 186 of his book.
1.) Aslan says that the Apostle Paul says he is superior to all the other apostles. Fact: Paul said he is the least of all the apostles 1 Cor 15:9
2.) Aslan says that Paul holds contempt for James, Peter, and John, mocking them as "so-called pillars of the church." Fact: Paul commends them as apparent pillars of the church Galatians 2:9 "And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship"
3.) Aslan says that Paul said of James, Peter, and John "Whatever they are makes no difference to me...those leaders contributed nothing to me" quoting Galatians 2:6. Fact: He was not referring to them, but others who he deemed false brethren and teachers.
4.) Aslan says that Paul believes he is better because Jesus gives him secret visions, a prideful man. Fact: Paul never boasted of his visions, but manifested humility in it by sometimes speaking in the third person (2 Cor 12)
5.) Aslan says that Paul implies in Galatians 1:15) that rather than being the 13th apostle, he is the 1st apostle because he was chosen before the foundation of the world, while Jesus didn't pick the others until he was with them. Fact: Paul said it was only because of the grace of God he was appointed as an apostle. Plus, Jesus said all the apostles were ordained before the foundation of the world John 15:16)
It is very evident that Aslan is not being scholarly or academic in his portrayal of a "historic Jesus," but is plainly being dishonest, twisting and lying about what the New Testament writers say. This is not a matter of "diverse interpretations," but very clear dishonesty to advance his agenda in trying to undermine the real historical Jesus.
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