Paul of Tarsus

Definition

Paul of Tarsus, also known as Saint Paul, was an early Christian missionary and theologian who played a pivotal role in the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire during the first century AD. He is best known for his epistles, which articulate key theological concepts and help shape early Christian doctrine, significantly influencing both the development of Christian communities and their integration into the broader Greco-Roman society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Paul was originally a Pharisee named Saul who persecuted early Christians before converting to Christianity after a dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus.
2. He undertook multiple missionary journeys across the Roman Empire, establishing numerous Christian communities in key cities such as Corinth, Ephesus, and Philippi.
3. Paul's teachings emphasized faith in Christ over adherence to Jewish law, which helped broaden Christianity's appeal to Gentiles.
4. He is traditionally credited with writing 13 of the 27 books in the New Testament, which include letters addressing various theological and practical issues faced by early Christians.
5. Paul's imprisonment and eventual martyrdom in Rome highlight the challenges faced by early Christians, as well as his unwavering commitment to spreading the message of Jesus.

Review Questions

• How did Paul's background as a Pharisee influence his approach to spreading Christianity?
  • Paul's background as a Pharisee gave him a deep understanding of Jewish law and scripture, which he skillfully used to connect with both Jewish audiences and Gentiles. His training enabled him to articulate complex theological ideas in ways that resonated with different cultures. This dual perspective allowed him to advocate for a version of Christianity that transcended strict adherence to Jewish law, thereby making it accessible to a wider audience.
• In what ways did Paul's missionary journeys contribute to the establishment of early Christian communities throughout the Roman Empire?
  • Paul's missionary journeys were crucial in spreading Christianity beyond its Jewish roots into the Greco-Roman world. By traveling extensively and establishing churches in major cities like Corinth and Ephesus, he created networks of Christian believers. His letters not only provided guidance and support for these communities but also helped unify them under shared beliefs despite cultural differences. This laid the groundwork for the future expansion of Christianity across diverse regions.
• Evaluate the impact of Paul's writings on Christian doctrine and how they helped shape the relationship between Christianity and Judaism during the early years.
  • Paul's writings had a profound impact on Christian doctrine by emphasizing themes such as grace, faith, and salvation through Christ rather than adherence to Jewish law. This shift sparked significant theological debates about the relationship between Judaism and emerging Christianity. By advocating that Gentiles could join the faith without following all Jewish customs, Paul facilitated a separation that defined early Christianity while also maintaining respect for its Jewish heritage. His contributions helped form a new identity for Christians as they navigated their place within the Roman Empire.

Related terms

Apostle: A term referring to the early followers of Jesus who were sent out to preach the gospel, with Paul being one of the most prominent apostles.

Epistles: Letters written by Paul and other early Christian leaders, which address theological issues, guidance for churches, and personal matters, forming a significant part of the New Testament.

Gentiles: Non-Jewish people, whom Paul actively evangelized, emphasizing that Christianity was open to all regardless of ethnic or cultural background.