Paul, a small-town Jew and tent maker by trade, had much to say during his ministry throughout the known world. He changed the course of early Christianity with his teachings, letters, and evangelism. But what exactly happened to Paul in the Bible?
At first, before he was to become one of the most influential people in Christianity and an invaluable contributor to the Bible, Paul (formerly known as Saul of Tarsus) was a persecutor of Christians. After his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus, Paul’s life was forever changed.
After the miraculous event, Paul spent three years in Arabia and Damascus, learning the gospel. He returned to his hometown and spread the message, facing hostility and persecution.
Paul was eventually arrested and had multiple trials. He appealed to Caesar and headed for Rome, where he spent two years in prison. Although some claim he was released and continued preaching, there is no solid evidence to back that up. Despite no conclusive proof, Paul has left an indisputable trail throughout the Christian faith, and many consider his imprisonment episodes his first of two martyrdoms.
He was soon arrested and sent to Jerusalem, where he was put on trial again. After a mob attempted to kill Paul, he was sent to Caesarea, where King Herod Agrippa II and Festus, the Roman governor of Judea, attempted to pass judgment on Paul. But Paul appealed his case to Caesar, and was sent to Rome, where despite more trials and imprisonments, he was allowed some liberty. He was eventually brought before Nero, who ordered Paul’s execution.
Second Martyrdom of Paul
Though many believe Paul was released from captivity, the New Testament does not provide any tangible proof. Some authorities believe that after his imprisonment in Rome, Paul was sent back to preach in Jerusalem, only to be captured and martyred.
According to tradition, Paul journeyed back to Jerusalem and a tribunal was convened to further his case. This time he was condemned to death. Persecution under Nero had grown so fierce that it implicates in the martyrdom of Paul, along with Peter and James, the brother of Jesus.
Paul’s Legacy
Despite the lack of evidence regarding his second martyrdom, Paul’s legacy has remained intact. His writings, collected in what we now call the Pauline epistles have become pillars of Christian theology.
Paul is ultimately remembered for his dedication to his cause, his brave persistence in the face of danger, and his evangelism of the known world in the first century. If not for Paul, Christianity and the Bible as we know them today would be vastly different, and perhaps far less successful than they are.
Influence of Paul’s Writings
Paul’s writings, collected in the New Testament, are closely studied by today’s Christian theologians. The Pauline epistles have become the source of some of the most clearly defined Christian doctrines, including the epistles to the Romans and the first epistle to the Corinthians.
The influence of Paul’s teachings can be seen in modern Christianity, particularly in Protestantism, which prizes Paul’s emphasis on faith alone as a means of salvation. For example, Paul’s famous verse, “For by grace you have been saved through faith” (Ephesians 2:8), is frequently quoted in religious circles.
Paul’s writings have also served as an inspiration to many theologians who form a reliable study of Christianity. While not all of Paul’s writings are accepted as completely reflective of today’s Christianity, his teachings are nonetheless viewed as crucial for understanding the Bible and for understanding Christianity as a whole.
Death of Paul
Though there is much debate about whether or not Paul was released from captivity, he is generally regarded to have been executed by Emperor Nero sometime around 66 A.D. His death, like his life, was of great consequence in the faith, and is still remembered today.
While his death was undoubtedly a tragedy, it was also an example of one of the earliest Christian martyrs and an embodiment of strength and determination. Paul, persecuted by both Jews and Gentiles, never faltered in his faith and remained determined to spread the word of Christianity until his last breath.
Paul’s Impact
Paul’s influence on Christianity can be seen in multiple ways, from the doctrines and teachings gleaned from his writings, to the way he courageously spread his faith despite immense opposition.
Paul’s intimate knowledge of the gospel and his analysis of religious life have yielded us a rich set of inspiration and teachings, both for daily life and for the practice of Christianity. Whether one is a fan of the Pauline epistles or not, it is undeniable that his ideas, his words, and his work have shaped and continue to shape religious life in the West.
Paul in the 21st Century
Though Paul is no longer physically here, his influence is one that will be felt for centuries to come. This is most apparent in the way churches, denominations, and religious organizations look to Paul’s teachings as a source of moral and theological guidance.
From worship practices to the inclusion of females to the development of non-hierarchical organizations, Paul’s example is one that can still be followed today. In the 21st century, it is important to look back on Paul’s example, and allow his influence to shape our actions, beliefs, and relationships.
Paul’s Place in History
Paul is centrally important to the history of Christianity for many reasons. Not only did he provide the moral and theological foundations of modern Christianity, he also provided us with an example of courage, faith, and determination in a world filled with hostility and resistance.
The legacy of Paul will always remain with us, inspiring us to fight for what we believe in, no matter what odds are against us. His example is one of determination and courage, and one that will remain with us forever.
Conclusion
Paul has given us an example of faith and courage in adversity that is invaluable today. His influence on Christianity can be seen in his teachings and his example, and his writings have become a source of moral and theological instruction for many. Though Paul has left this world, his influence and his legacy remain with us today.
