Who at Corinth most strongly opposed Paul and his mystery teachings?
The strongest opposition at Corinth came from professing followers of Peter. They resisted Paul’s apostleship and his teachings according to the mystery, with a related group claiming to follow Jesus’ teachings. These factions challenged Paul’s authority and message in the assembly.
Les explains that Paul constantly had to defend his apostleship because false teachers were coming in. The strongest element at Corinth opposing Paul and his teachings according to the mystery were those who claimed to follow Peter. Right next to that were those who claimed to follow the teachings of Jesus. Les notes this is no different today, as many say they like Paul but will go by what Jesus said. He clarifies that what Jesus said was to the nation of Israel under the Law, while Paul’s writings are Holy Spirit inspired and directed to Gentiles in this age of grace. Paul also asks whether he must come with official letters of commendation from Peter and the twelve in Jerusalem, or from those who were apostles before him.