Paul claimed that he was directly called by the risen Jesus Christ, not appointed by humans. Although he was not one of the original Twelve, his apostleship was later recognized and affirmed by the early church leaders. Therefore, calling him merely a “self-proclaimed preacher” is an oversimplification.
1. Why do some say Paul was “self-proclaimed”?
He was not among the original Twelve apostles
He did not follow Jesus during His earthly ministry
He explicitly calls himself an apostle
This leads critics to argue that Paul appointed himself.
2. Paul’s own claim
Paul consistently states that:
He encountered the risen Christ on the road to Damascus (Acts 9; 22; 26)
His mission was directly commissioned by Jesus, especially to the Gentiles
“Paul, an apostle—not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ”
— Galatians 1:1
3. Did other apostles accept Paul?
Yes.
Initial suspicion existed (Acts 9:26)
Barnabas vouched for Paul (Acts 9:27)
Later, Peter, James, and John formally recognized his ministry
“They gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship”
— Galatians 2:9
Peter even refers to Paul’s letters as Scripture (2 Peter 3:15–16).

Conclusion:-
Paul did assert his calling himself — true
But his apostleship was tested, confirmed, and accepted by church leadership
Therefore, he was not merely a self-appointed preacher, but a recognized apostle