St Paul

One of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age who spread the teachings of Jesus to the first-century world.

This biography of St Paul helps you learn English through real historical stories.

bornc. 5 AD

diedc. 64 or 67 AD

nationalityJewish (Roman citizen)

known forhis epistles and missionary journeys spreading Christianity

fieldreligion and theology

Key Takeaways

He transformed from a persecutor of Christians to its most passionate missionary
He undertook three major journeys to establish churches across the Mediterranean
He authored many epistles that make up a large part of the New Testament
He is known as the 'Apostle to the Gentiles' for bringing Christianity to non-Jews

Life Timeline

c. 5 AD

Born in Tarsus as Saul

c. 33-36 AD

Converted to Christianity on the road to Damascus

c. 46-58 AD

Undertook three major missionary journeys

c. 50-60 AD

Wrote his major epistles (letters) to early church communities

c. 64-67 AD

Martyred in Rome

Biography Reading: St Paul

background

Paul the Apostle, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, was born around 5 AD into a devout Jewish family. As a Roman citizen and a Pharisee, he was highly educated in Jewish law and Greek philosophy. In his early years, Saul fiercely opposed the newly formed Christian movement, actively persecuting the followers of Jesus in an effort to protect traditional Jewish orthodoxy.

achievement

His life changed dramatically on the road to Damascus when, according to the biblical account, he experienced a profound vision of the resurrected Jesus. This dramatic conversion transformed him from Christianity's greatest enemy into its most passionate advocate. Changing his name to Paul, he dedicated the rest of his life to spreading the Gospel, undertaking three extensive missionary journeys across the Mediterranean world, establishing churches in key cities like Corinth, Ephesus, and Philippi.

impact

Perhaps Paul's most enduring legacy is his writings. He authored numerous epistles (letters) to the early Christian communities, addressing theological disputes, ethical behavior, and the nature of salvation through faith in Christ rather than strict adherence to the Jewish law. These letters comprise a significant portion of the New Testament. Ultimately, his tireless efforts to bridge the gap between Jews and Gentiles fundamentally shaped Christian theology, earning him the title of the "Apostle to the Gentiles" before his martyrdom in Rome.