**1. Paul's Influence Before Meeting Peter (Circa 37-40 AD)**

It's crucial to establish that Paul was already a significant figure before meeting Peter in Jerusalem (Galatians 1:15-24). Here's what we know:

* **Early Ministry:** After his conversion experience, Paul began preaching the gospel in Arabia and then Damascus. He developed his theology and ministry independently for several years.

* **Conflict with Jewish Christians:** His teachings about justification by faith alone were already causing tension with some Jewish Christians who insisted on adherence to Mosaic law (including circumcision) as a prerequisite for salvation. This suggests he was articulating distinct theological ideas even before Peter's influence.

* **Syrian and Cilician Churches:** Paul established churches in Syria and Cilicia, which provided him with a network of support.

* **Developing Theology:** Paul's early letters (likely 1 Thessalonians) demonstrate that he already had developed core theological concepts concerning the resurrection, Christ’s return, and the Christian life.

**2. Arguments *Against* Inclusion Without Peter's Influence**

These arguments suggest that Paul's epistles might not have made it into the New Testament canon without the connection to the established Jerusalem leadership (represented by Peter).

* **Legitimacy & Apostolic Authority:** In the early church, having an unbroken chain of apostolic succession and authorization was highly valued. While Paul claimed a direct encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (giving him his authority), some Jewish Christians questioned his legitimacy because he hadn't been taught by the original apostles or mentored within the Jerusalem community. Peter’s endorsement would have bolstered Paul's standing significantly.

* **The "Peter Factor" in Church Unity:** The early church was grappling with how to integrate Gentile (non-Jewish) believers into the existing Jewish Christian framework. Peter's role at the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15), where he affirmed that Gentiles didn’t need to observe Mosaic Law for salvation, was pivotal in resolving this tension and creating a more inclusive vision of Christianity. Paul's letters frequently address similar issues, and his arguments were strengthened by being aligned with what Peter represented. Without Peter's precedent, Paul’s views might have been seen as more radical or divisive.

* **Reception & Circulation:** Paul’s letters needed to be circulated and accepted within the broader church community. Peter’s endorsement would have made their reception much easier, especially among Jewish Christians who were initially skeptical of Paul. A letter from someone associated with Peter carried significant weight.

* **The Jerusalem Church as a Central Authority** The early church often looked to the Jerusalem leadership for guidance and validation. It is likely that recognition by the Jerusalem church was an important step in any document being considered canonical.

**3. Arguments *For* Potential Inclusion Without Peter's Influence**

These arguments suggest that Paul's writings might still have been included, even absent a strong connection to Peter.

* **The Power of His Theology:** Paul’s theological insights were profound and addressed fundamental questions about salvation, the nature of Christ, and Christian living. His theology was arguably groundbreaking, regardless of his relationship with Peter. The sheer quality and depth of his arguments could have led to their acceptance over time.

* **Widespread Acceptance in Gentile Churches:** Paul primarily wrote to Gentile churches throughout the Roman Empire. These churches were less tied to the Jerusalem tradition than Jewish Christians. If Paul's letters resonated strongly within these communities, they might have gained enough momentum for inclusion independent of Peter’s influence.

* **The Holy Spirit Argument:** Paul consistently claimed that his teachings were guided by the Holy Spirit (e.g., 1 Corinthians 7:40). This divine authority could have been seen as sufficient validation, even without human endorsement from a prominent figure like Peter. Early Christians believed that inspired scripture was directly from God.

* **The Growing Importance of Paul's Churches:** The churches Paul founded grew rapidly and were important centers of Christian life. Their support would have increased the visibility and influence of his writings.

**4. Other Factors at Play in Canonization**

It’s essential to remember that canonization wasn't a single event but a gradual process spanning centuries. Several factors influenced which books made it into the New Testament:

* **Apostolic Authorship (or Association):** While not always strictly enforced, authorship or close association with an apostle was a significant criterion.

* **Widespread Use:** Books that were widely read and valued in early Christian communities had a better chance of being included.

* **Orthodoxy:** Books needed to align with existing theological beliefs (orthodoxy) and not contain heresy.

* **Practical Considerations**: The size of the canon was also influenced by how much could be reasonably memorized, copied, and circulated among believers.

**5. Conclusion**

It’s very difficult to say definitively whether Paul's epistles would have been included in the New Testament without his encounter with Peter. My assessment is that **it's *less likely* but not impossible.**

* **Without Peter:** Paul’s writings might have circulated within Gentile churches, gaining some traction, but it’s doubtful they would have achieved widespread acceptance and canonical status as quickly or easily. The initial skepticism from Jewish Christians and the need for legitimacy would have been significant hurdles. His letters may have remained influential in certain circles but not become universally recognized Scripture.

* **With Peter:** The connection to Peter provided a crucial layer of authority, helping bridge the gap between Paul's theology and the established Jerusalem tradition. It facilitated broader acceptance and ultimately contributed significantly to the canonization of his epistles.

Ultimately, the inclusion of Paul’s letters was likely a combination of factors – the inherent quality and theological depth of his writings, the influence of his churches, and the pivotal role of Peter in shaping early Christian unity and understanding. The absence of one factor would have made the process much more challenging.

**Disclaimer:** This is an interpretive analysis based on historical and biblical scholarship. It represents a reasoned argument but should not be taken as definitive proof due to the inherent uncertainty involved in analyzing counterfactual scenarios.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5725205&forum_id=2)#48932239)