Conversion · Mission · Theology · Legacy of the Apostle to the Gentiles
| Module | Title | Level | Text |
|---|---|---|---|
| SOA-110 | The Life of Paul | First & Second Year | The Life of St. Paul by James Stalker (New York: Scribner & Welford) |
The Life of Paul module immerses SOA students in the ministry, writings, and lasting impact of the Apostle Paul. It explores his dramatic conversion, his three missionary journeys, and his theological contributions to the Church. Students will examine the historical and cultural context of his ministry, his role in spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles, and the key themes of his epistles — grace, faith, justification, sanctification, and Christian unity.
A. Time of Birth
Paul, originally named Saul of Tarsus, is believed to have been born around 4 BCE, though the exact day of his birth remains unknown. His birthplace, Tarsus, was a significant city in the region of Cilicia, which was part of the Roman Empire at the time. It is generally accepted that he was born around the same time as Jesus — approximately 4 BCE or slightly later.
B. The State of the World
The Christian Church of the early centuries simply could not avoid the culture of the Greeks and Romans — it was everywhere around them. It was Christianity's expansion into this largely non-Jewish world that gave rise to some of its most difficult challenges and greatest triumphs. Paul collided with classical culture several times. Most of the problems for Paul lay in Greco-Roman morality and polytheism. Nowhere is this more in evidence than in his correspondence with the new Christians in the city of Corinth.
"But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God."— I Corinthians 1:23–24
C. Family
Paul does not frequently speak of his family in his letters. He speaks of himself as set apart by God "from his mother's womb" (Galatians 1:15). Scripture mentions his sister and nephew (Acts 23:16), who would later play a critical role in saving Paul's life when his nephew overheard a plot against him and reported it to the Roman commander. Additional distant relatives are mentioned in Romans 16:7, 11, and 21, including Andronicus, Junia, Herodion, and Sosipater — each referred to as kinsmen and fellow workers in Christ.
D. Education under Gamaliel
Acts 22:3 records Paul's declaration that he had been educated "at the feet of Gamaliel." Gamaliel held a leading position in the Sanhedrin and was the first teacher to be given the title rabban — a title higher than rabbi, indicating extraordinary esteem. Like his grandfather, Gamaliel was also given the title ha-Zaqen, meaning "the Elder." Under this distinguished teacher, Paul gained a profound understanding of Jewish law, Scripture, and tradition that would later equip him to argue the case for Christ from within the very system he once defended.
E. Employment and Trade: Tentmaking
In his childhood and youth, Paul learned the trade of tentmaking (I Corinthians 4:12 — "And labour, working with our own hands"). His trade, which he continued to practice after his conversion to Christianity, helps to explain important aspects of his apostleship. He could travel with a few leather-working tools and set up shop anywhere he arrived. This self-sufficiency allowed him to preach without being a financial burden on the churches he served, and it earned him credibility among common working people throughout the Roman Empire.
Before his dramatic conversion, Saul of Tarsus was one of the most feared persecutors of the early Christian movement. The Bible does not explicitly state that Paul personally killed anyone, but his role in the persecution, imprisonment, and executions of early believers is extensively documented.
"And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul... And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem." — Acts 7:58–8:1. Paul did not personally throw the stones, but he approved and was directly implicated in Stephen's martyrdom.
"And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem."— Acts 9:1–2
"I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them."— Acts 26:9–10
The Damascus Road Conversion
Paul's conversion, which occurred around 33 CE, marked the beginning of his transformative journey — moving from a persecutor of Christians to one of the most influential apostles in the spreading of the Gospel.
"And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?... And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized."— Acts 9:3–4, 18
If God could take the most violent persecutor of the early Church and transform him into its greatest missionary, then there is no one beyond the reach of His grace. Paul's conversion is not just a historical event — it is a declaration that God can use anyone, from anywhere, for His glory.
The New Testament contains 27 books, and Paul is credited with authorship of 13 of them. Roughly half of the New Testament is connected to Paul and his influence — including a significant portion of the Acts of the Apostles. Apostle Paul's work was ideally suited to his extraordinary talents and abilities: his deep knowledge of Jewish law and Scripture, his fluency in multiple languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek), his exceptional communication skills cultivated under Gamaliel, his Roman citizenship which afforded legal protections, and his ability to connect with people from widely varying cultural backgrounds.
Seven of these 13 letters are widely regarded as directly authored by Paul himself: Romans, I Corinthians, II Corinthians, Galatians, Philippians, I Thessalonians, and Philemon. These are the most reliable sources for understanding Paul's life and theology. Additional letters — Ephesians, Colossians, II Thessalonians — are considered Deutero-Pauline, likely written by close followers of Paul in his tradition. The pastoral epistles — I Timothy, II Timothy, and Titus — are considered Trito-Pauline, written by members of the Pauline school a generation later.
All 13 letters carry the authoritative teaching of the Pauline tradition and remain fully Scripture, "profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" (II Timothy 3:16), regardless of the scholarly discussions surrounding their composition. Paul's zeal, passion, adaptability, and strategic approach to ministry made him uniquely effective in establishing and guiding early Christian churches across the Roman world.
The First Missionary Journey began in Antioch, where Paul and Barnabas were set apart by the Holy Spirit: "Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them" (Acts 13:2). They traveled through Cyprus and southern Asia Minor, preaching in synagogues and encountering fierce opposition from both Jews and Gentiles. In Lystra, after healing a crippled man, Paul was stoned and left for dead by hostile Jews from Antioch and Iconium — but he miraculously rose up and continued to Derbe. This journey was pivotal in spreading the Gospel to Gentile regions and establishing new churches. Paul and Barnabas declared boldly: "Lo, we turn to the Gentiles. For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth" (Acts 13:46–47).
The Second Missionary Journey was marked by a sharp dispute between Paul and Barnabas over John Mark, leading to their separation. Paul took Silas as his companion, and they were later joined by Timothy and Luke. This journey extended through Asia Minor into Europe — the first time the Gospel was carried to the European continent. Paul and Silas were imprisoned in Philippi following the exorcism of a slave girl, yet they prayed and sang praises at midnight, leading to a miraculous earthquake, the opening of prison doors, and the conversion of the jailer and his entire family (Acts 16:25–26). In Athens, Paul engaged Greek philosophers at Mars Hill, boldly preaching about "THE UNKNOWN GOD" (Acts 17:22–23), introducing the true Creator to an audience of philosophically sophisticated but spiritually lost Athenians. In Corinth, he received a vision from the Lord: "Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: For I am with thee" (Acts 18:9–10).
The Third Missionary Journey focused primarily on strengthening the established churches and furthering the reach of the Gospel. Paul traveled extensively through Galatia and Phrygia, revisiting churches and providing further teaching. In Ephesus, he spent over two years preaching and performing extraordinary miracles — handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched his body were carried to the sick, and diseases departed and evil spirits went out (Acts 19:11–12). This ministry stirred significant controversy, particularly from silversmiths whose livelihoods depended on the worship of the goddess Diana (Artemis). A silversmith named Demetrius incited a riot, crying that Paul was destroying their trade and threatening the honor of Diana. Throughout his journeys, Paul was accompanied by companions including Timothy, Luke, and others. As he journeyed back toward Jerusalem, Paul gave a moving farewell address to the Ephesian elders at Miletus: "I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35).
Acts 15 deals with a significant controversy in the early Christian church regarding whether Gentile converts to Christianity needed to follow Jewish law, particularly the practice of circumcision. This chapter documents the first major council in the Christian church — often referred to as the Jerusalem Council — convened to address this foundational issue.
Certain individuals from Judea had come to Antioch teaching that unless Gentile converts were circumcised according to the custom of Moses, they could not be saved (Acts 15:1). This caused sharp dispute, prompting Paul and Barnabas to go to Jerusalem to discuss the matter with the apostles and elders. During the council, Peter stood and reminded everyone that God had already shown His acceptance of the Gentiles by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He did to the Jewish believers, and that their hearts were purified by faith — not by adherence to the law (Acts 15:7–9). Peter argued that imposing the law's yoke on Gentile converts was unnecessary, and that salvation was through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ alone (Acts 15:10–11).
Paul and Barnabas shared how God had performed signs and wonders among the Gentiles. James, the brother of Jesus, then spoke, citing the prophets and concluding that Gentiles should not be burdened with circumcision, but should abstain from food polluted by idols, sexual immorality, meat from strangled animals, and blood (Acts 15:19–20). This decision was communicated through a letter sent to Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia, and was well received, bringing great relief and encouragement.
Acts 15 marks a decisive moment in the early church's understanding of the relationship between Jewish law and Christian faith, establishing that salvation comes through grace and faith in Jesus Christ — not through adherence to the Jewish law. This decision helped unify Jewish and Gentile believers and shaped the future mission and expansion of the Christian church for all generations to come.
Paul's Gospel, as presented in Romans, is his most comprehensive theological work, emphasizing salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans is the systematic declaration of the Gospel in letter form — the theological foundation upon which all of Paul's practical exhortations rest.
| Chapters | Theme | Key Verse |
|---|---|---|
| Romans 1–3 | The Universal Need for Salvation | "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." — Romans 3:23 |
| Romans 3–5 | Justification by Faith | "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." — Romans 5:1 |
| Romans 6–8 | Sanctification: Life in the Spirit | "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." — Romans 8:1 |
| Romans 9–11 | God's Sovereign Plan for Israel and the Gentiles | "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." — Romans 10:13 |
| Romans 12–15 | Practical Christian Living | "Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind." — Romans 12:2 |
| Romans 16 | Conclusion — Final Greetings and Doxology | "To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever." — Romans 16:27 |
A doxology is a short hymn or declaration of praise to God, often used in Christian worship. The term comes from the Greek words doxa (glory) and logia (saying). The most familiar is the Common Doxology written by Thomas Ken: "Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen." Romans closes with a powerful doxology affirming God's eternal wisdom and glory.
Paul's place in history, as it relates to the church, is foundational and transformative. He is regarded as one of the most influential figures in early Christianity due to his extensive missionary work, his theological contributions, and his writings that form a significant portion of the New Testament. His efforts in spreading the Gospel across the Roman Empire and his teachings on salvation by faith, grace, and the universality of the Christian message helped shape the theological framework and inclusive nature of the Christian church — allowing it to grow beyond its Jewish roots into a global faith.
Paul's role in addressing early church controversies, particularly the inclusion of Gentiles without adherence to the Jewish law, solidified his legacy as a pivotal architect of Christian doctrine and community. His letters have shaped Christian theology for two thousand years, and continue to be studied, preached, and applied in every corner of the world.
Paul's life stands as a powerful testament to the transformative grace of God. From a zealous persecutor to a devoted apostle, his journey reflects the depth of God's mercy and the limitless reach of His calling. His life challenges every believer to remain steadfast in faith, boldly proclaim the Gospel, and trust in God's sovereign purpose — knowing that He can use even the most unlikely vessel for His glory.
The Epistles serve as foundational teachings for Christian doctrine, spiritual growth, and church leadership. A central message of the Epistles is salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, emphasizing grace over works (Ephesians 2:8–9). They highlight the transformation that comes through the Holy Spirit, urging believers to live righteously, walk in love, and remain steadfast in faith despite persecution.
Addresses divisions, immorality, spiritual gifts, and the resurrection. Paul emphasizes unity, love, and the centrality of Christ's resurrection. Key verse: I Corinthians 15:3–8 (the resurrection appearances).
Strongly defends justification by faith against those who demanded Gentile adherence to Jewish law. "A man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ" (Galatians 2:16). A cornerstone of Reformation theology.
Highlights the unity of the church as the body of Christ and the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10–17). Key Reformation text: "By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:8).
Written from prison, filled with joy and encouragement. The Christ Hymn (Philippians 2:5–11) is a defining Christological passage on the humility and exaltation of Jesus. "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" (Philippians 4:13).
Combats false teachings by affirming the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ in all things. "In him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily" (Colossians 2:9). Christ is preeminent over all creation.
Encouragement for a young church facing persecution, with instruction on the second coming of Christ. I Thessalonians 4:16–17 is a pivotal eschatological text on the return of Christ.
Pastoral epistles to Paul's protégé Timothy, offering guidance on church leadership, sound doctrine, godly living, and the qualifications for church officers. "All scripture is given by inspiration of God" (II Timothy 3:16).
Instructions for church organization and sound teaching. "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men" (Titus 2:11). Emphasizes godly living as evidence of sound doctrine.
A personal letter advocating for the reconciliation and forgiveness of Onesimus, a runaway slave who became a Christian. Illustrates the transformative power of Christian love and the equality of all persons in Christ.
A profound theological treatise on the superiority of Christ over the old covenant. Jesus is the ultimate High Priest and fulfillment of every Old Testament promise. "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1).
Paul's life is living proof that God wastes nothing. The education, the zeal, the passion, the suffering, the travels, the prison cells, the shipwrecks — every single chapter was preparation for a purpose greater than Paul could have imagined when he was breathing threats against the church on the road to Damascus. He said it best himself: "By the grace of God I am what I am." That grace is available to every one of us. Study his life. Learn his doctrine. Catch his fire. And go reach the world that still needs to hear the Gospel he gave his life to proclaim.