Question: Paul never claimed to see Jesus ‘in the flesh’ either, but had a vision of the risen Christ.
Anyway, Paul’s claim about the 500 is highly suspect. Not even the Gospel writers mention it. Perhaps this was another of his visions?
Paul did not “hallucinate”! As you know from your knowledge of God’s Word, he was a very special personage; as God said “a chosen vessel” (Eph. 3:8-12), (Rom. 11:25-33) and (1Cor. 15:8-10).
What you cynically call “visions” was God’s Graciously allowing him to see the “Glorious” state that awaits all who are loyal, and faithful in service to Him, Who has given the greatest Gift possible; “laid down His Life for a friend”; in our Lord and Saviour, Christ Jesus!
This was first alluded to, with Abram and Moses, and others of the early family of Israel.
Because of the current rejection of Jesus by Israel; the great Gift is open to all Gentiles, as is described in Romans 11:25–27. When that phase is complete, then Rom. 9:24–33 will apply, which will coincide with Zech. 12:10, and Ezek. 39:21-29!
With the current Mid-East events, this may not be long from fruition!
See: Paul's Progress on from Christian Persecution to Apostle (Study)
Paul's Progression from Apostle to the Jews, to Gentile first and veiled Jews (Study)
Paul Pre-Acts 28:28 (Study)
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