Paul, formerly known as Saul of Tarsus, was a zealous Pharisee and persecutor of the early church. Acts 8:3 says, “Saul made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.” Yet, God had chosen him for a divine purpose.
On the road to Damascus, Saul encountered the risen Christ. A light from heaven shone around him, and he heard Jesus say, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” (Acts 9:4). Blinded by the encounter, he was led to Damascus, where Ananias, directed by the Lord, laid hands on him. Saul’s sight was restored, he was baptized, and began to preach Christ immediately.
God declared, “He is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15). Paul became the apostle to the Gentiles, traveling extensively to preach the gospel, plant churches, and strengthen believers.
He authored thirteen epistles, including Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, and others, laying much of the theological foundation for the New Testament church. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 affirms the divine inspiration of his writings.
Paul endured great suffering for Christ: beatings, imprisonments, shipwrecks, and more (2 Corinthians 11:24-27). Yet he declared, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).
He emphasized salvation by grace through faith, the unity of Jew and Gentile in Christ, and the power of the cross. Paul’s life was wholly consumed with the mission of making Christ known. Philippians 1:21 summarizes his heart: “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
