1 Corinthians 15:9

“For I am the least of the apostles, etc.] Referring not to the littleness of his stature, but to the figure before used, and as expressing not the opinion of others concerning him, but the true and real sense he had of himself, for which he himself gives the strongest reason that can be given; and by “apostles” he means not only the twelve, but all other ministers of the Gospel that were sent forth by Christ to preach it: nor need this be wondered at, when he says, that he was less than the least of all saints, (<490308>Ephesians 3:8) though when his person and doctrines were traduced by false teachers, and attempts were made to disgrace his ministry, and render it useless, in vindication of…”

“least--The name, "Paulus," in Latin, means "least." I persecuted the church--Though God has forgiven him, Paul can hardly forgive himself at the remembrance of his past sin.”

“For - A reason for the appellation which he had given to himself in 1 Corinthians 15:8. I am the least of the apostles - Not on account of any defect in his commission, or any lack of qualification to bear witness in what he saw, but on account of the great crime of his life, the fact that he had been a persecutor. Paul could never forget that; as a man who has been profane and a scoffer, when he becomes converted, can never forget the deep guilt of his former life. The effect will be to produce humility, and a deep sense of unworthiness, ever onward. Am not meet to be called an apostle - Am not fit to be regarded as a follower of the Lord Jesus, and as appointed to defend his cause, and to…”

“I persecuted the church - True believers are humbled all their lives, even for the sins they committed before they believed. 1 Corinthians 15:10”

“the least: Co2 11:5, Co2 12:11; Eph 3:7, Eph 3:8 because: Act 8:3, 9:1-19, Act 22:4, Act 22:5, Act 26:9-11; Gal 1:13, Gal 1:23; Phi 3:6; Ti1 1:13, Ti1 1:14 1 Corinthians 15:10”