Paul Profile

APOSTLE PAUL

Religious zealot changes history

So, what was the secret to the ‘success’ of Paul’s ministry? – was it stature, strength, knowledge and riches or was it something far more contrary to the way the world views the requirements of success?

Paul Factfile

Born Saul of Tarsus and raised in Jerusalem under the training of Gamaliel, a member of the Jewish Sanhedrin and renowned teacher of God’s law. During the period of the early church, Saul wrought havoc and persecuted many believers. Five years after Christ’s Ascension, Saul was gloriously converted on the road to Damascus and became Paul, Christ’s chosen witness to the Gentiles. Paul’s name comes from the Greek, Paulos, meaning ‘small.’  

Commissioned

Paul may have been small in stature but his effect on millions of people through the ages has been enormous. There isn’t enough room in this entire website to speak of the accomplishments and inspired teachings of Paul, yet alone this small section – but one thing for sure is that Paul has set an example in his life and ministry that all Christians should follow. Not only was he the greatest missionary ever but he was also a martyr for Christ – he was persecuted and suffered for the Gospel and his display of faith and his works are so deep and profound that it would benefit any Christian to take a closer look at this great man of God. Paul was officially the first missionary – along with his companion Barnabus as in they were set apart and commissioned specifically by the church in Antioch to go to the gentiles. Of course Jesus had already commissioned ALL his followers before he ascended to heaven to go to Jews and gentiles!

His missions, firstly to the Jews and then to the Gentiles in Asia, N.Africa and Europe have literally changed the face of the world we live in. The scale of the impact of his work is incalculable. He had a passion to preach Christ where he was not known (Romans 15:20). Paul evidently was willing to suffer for the Gospel.

So, what was the secret to the ‘success’ of Paul’s ministry? – was it stature, strength, knowledge and riches or was it something far more contrary to the way the world views the requirements of success? Paul was persecuted and suffered for what he believed and preached – together with his humility, servant nature, obedience, holiness, long-suffering and perseverance, he transformed the world we live in – all through faith in Christ. He told Timothy to ‘not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God’. He also admonishes all Christians that in order to live a Godly life in Christ Jesus, persecution will come! These few pointers on Paul give us some clues as to why he was such a world changer.