Apostle Paul

Paul, originally named Saul, was one of the most influential missionaries in the early church. “Saul” was a name commonly used by Hebrews, while “Paul” was a common Roman name. He later began to use the name Paul to make it easier to preach in Roman territories. Because he pioneered the spread of the gospel to non-Jews, he is also known as the “Apostle to the Gentiles.” His journeys took him through much of Asia Minor and into modern-day Greece and Rome.

Paul was born into a Jewish family from the tribe of Benjamin in the city of Tarsus in the province of Cilicia, north of Judea. He was raised as a Pharisee, received a strict education in Jewish law from a young age, and studied under the famous scholar Gamaliel in Jerusalem. He had a deep understanding of the Old Testament and initially considered himself a Pharisee.

At first, Paul believed that proclaiming Jesus as the Messiah was a heresy that went against traditional Judaism, and he fiercely persecuted Christians. However, on his way to Damascus to persecute more disciples, he was struck by the Lord’s light, repented, and became a devout Christian. He then dedicated his life to proclaiming the salvation of the Lord Jesus. For the sake of the gospel, he endured many hardships and eventually died a martyr’s death. There are 27 books in the New Testament, and Paul wrote half of them under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

Paul’s life of ministry was centered on Christ, considering the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ to be the most valuable thing. He taught and lived by example, serving as a model for believers in all things. As he endured persecution from the Jews, he was simultaneously tested and served the Lord with great humility. Paul’s life of service—loving God and people with all his heart, soul, mind, and strength, and his dedication to God, the church, others, and himself—inspires us. May we emulate his service, learning to be a faithful servant of Christ. May the Lord help us to follow the example of Paul’s life and ministry, working for the Lord wholeheartedly and without reservation. Let us emulate Paul by “trusting in Christ, knowing Christ, experiencing Christ, loving Christ, imitating Christ, proclaiming Christ, and glorifying Christ.”