Quick Facts
Apostle to the Gentiles": From persecutor to Christianity's greatest evangelist.
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Life Journey
Paul, originally named Saul, was born to Jewish parents in Tarsus, a city in the Roman province of Cilicia.
Saul begins his rigorous education in Jewish law and traditions, likely studying under the renowned teacher Gamaliel in Jerusalem.
Saul is recognized as a Pharisee, a member of a religious sect known for strict adherence to Jewish law and traditions.
On his way to Damascus to persecute Christians, Saul has a vision of Jesus, leading to his conversion and a change of name to Paul.
Paul starts preaching about Jesus in Damascus, converting many Jews and Gentiles to Christianity, despite facing persecution.
Paul embarks on his first missionary journey with Barnabas, traveling to Cyprus and Asia Minor, establishing churches and spreading the Gospel.
Paul attends the Council of Jerusalem, a significant meeting that addresses the inclusion of Gentiles in the Christian church without requiring full Jewish conversion.
Paul sets out on his second missionary journey with Silas, traveling to Macedonia and Achaia, founding churches in Philippi, Thessalonica, and Corinth.
During his travels, Paul writes the Epistle to the Galatians, addressing issues of faith and works and the inclusion of Gentiles in the church.
Paul begins his third and longest missionary journey, primarily in Ephesus, where he spends about three years teaching and establishing a strong Christian community.
While in Corinth, Paul writes the Epistle to the Romans, a comprehensive theological treatise that outlines his understanding of the Gospel.
Paul is arrested in Jerusalem after a dispute with Jews who accuse him of defiling the temple. He is then sent to Caesarea for trial.
Paul appeals to Caesar, exercising his right as a Roman citizen to be tried in Rome, leading to his transfer to Rome under Roman custody.
Paul arrives in Rome and is placed under house arrest, where he continues to teach and write, including the Epistles to the Colossians, Philemon, and Ephesians.
Paul is executed by beheading in Rome, under the orders of Emperor Nero, marking the end of his influential life and ministry.