Definition: For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Corinthians 15:9. It’s a really interesting and somewhat complex passage, so we’ll go through it step-by-step. Here's what it means in simple terms: "I am the least of the apostles… that is not to say I didn’t care about God or the church. It means I wasn’t chosen to be a special apostle – someone who was particularly important and dedicated to serving God." Let's unpack that a bit: “I am the least of the apostles…” This isn't about being a bad person. It’s about his position in the church. He wasn’t considered one of the most important or highly revered leaders. Think of it like this – he wasn't the most influential leader, but he was still part of the team. “…that is not to say I didn’t care about God…” This is a really important point. The verse isn't saying he wasn't concerned with God or the church. He genuinely cared deeply for what was right and good. “It means I wasn’t chosen to be an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.” This is where it gets a little more nuanced. The word "persecuted" in this context means he actively opposed or discouraged the growth and well-being of the church. He was involved in activities that were challenging to the church’s unity and mission – basically, he tried to undermine things that were good for the community of believers. So, what's the big takeaway? It shows that Paul wasn’t a hero or a perfect leader. He was a man who was trying to do what he thought was right – protecting the church from harmful influences. Important Context: This verse is part of a larger discussion in 1 Corinthians about the roles and responsibilities within the early Christian community. It's revealing about Paul’s perspective and his dedication to the church, even when it meant challenging others. In short, this verse emphasizes that true leadership isn't always about being the most important or powerful – it’s about serving God and helping the church thrive. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of 1 Corinthians 15? Give you a simpler analogy to understand the concept?