Acts 9:15
Who Was Paul?
Paul, originally named Saul of Tarsus, transformed from the most zealous persecutor of the early church into its most influential apostle and missionary. A Pharisee educated under Gamaliel, Saul was on his way to Damascus to arrest Christians when the risen Jesus appeared to him in a blinding light, turning his life around completely. Paul went on to undertake three major missionary journeys throughout the Roman Empire, planting churches across Asia Minor and Europe, and writing thirteen epistles that comprise nearly half the New Testament. His theology of justification by faith through grace, the body of Christ, and the inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan fundamentally shaped Christian doctrine.
Key Events
Conversion on the Damascus Road
While traveling to Damascus to persecute Christians, Saul was struck by a blinding light and heard the voice of Jesus saying, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" This encounter transformed him from persecutor to apostle.
First Missionary Journey
Paul and Barnabas traveled through Cyprus and Asia Minor, preaching in synagogues and to Gentiles, establishing churches in cities including Antioch of Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe.
The Jerusalem Council
Paul argued at the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15) that Gentile believers did not need to follow the Jewish law for salvation. The council agreed, opening the door for the gospel to spread freely among all peoples.
Imprisonment and Epistles
Paul was arrested in Jerusalem and eventually taken to Rome as a prisoner. During his imprisonments, he wrote several letters — Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon — which are among the most treasured books of the New Testament.
Key Scriptures
Acts 9:15
Galatians 2:20
Philippians 3:13-14
Lessons from Paul
- No one is beyond the reach of God's transforming grace — even the fiercest opponents can become faithful servants.
- Suffering and hardship are not obstacles to God's purpose but often the very means through which He works.
- The gospel is for everyone, crossing every barrier of race, culture, and background.
Family Discussion & Activity
Discussion Questions
- ? Paul's life changed completely when he encountered Jesus. Have you ever had a moment that changed how you see everything?
- ? Paul suffered shipwrecks, beatings, and imprisonment for his faith. What kept him going, and what keeps us going when things are hard?
- ? Paul wrote letters to encourage churches. Who could our family write to or encourage this week?
Family Activity
Read about Paul in the Bible this week. Have each family member draw or write about what they admire most about Paul and share with the family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Saul change his name to Paul?
Saul did not formally change his name. As a Roman citizen born in Tarsus, he likely had both names from birth — Saul was his Hebrew name and Paul (Paulus) was his Roman name. Luke begins using "Paul" in Acts 13:9 when Paul begins his ministry to the Gentiles, reflecting his role as the apostle to the Gentile (Roman) world.
How many letters did Paul write in the New Testament?
Thirteen epistles are traditionally attributed to Paul: Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. Some scholars also consider Paul the author of Hebrews, though the letter is anonymous. These letters address theology, church practice, and pastoral concerns.
How did Paul die?
According to early church tradition, Paul was beheaded in Rome under Emperor Nero around AD 64-67. As a Roman citizen, he would have been entitled to execution by the sword rather than crucifixion. Clement of Rome, writing around AD 96, refers to Paul's martyrdom, and Eusebius records the tradition of his beheading.
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