Conversion of skeptic Paul

In what can only be described as autobiographical narrative, Saul of Tarsus – now going by a new name "Paul," describes how prior to his conversion, he had a prestigious, respected and powerful position as a Pharisee.

Philippians 3:4b-7

If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church, as for legalistic righteousness, faultless. But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
 

Paul was more than just a skeptic. He was actively seeking to put down the Christian movement. Again in his own words, he states the following from Gal 1:13

For you have heard of my previous way of life in Judaism, how intensely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it.

 
Paul has a religious experience which results in his conversion. Giving up his previous way of life, he becomes a Christian and he takes up preaching and building up the Church which he previously attacked.     

Gal 1:23b "The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy."

  
During the rest of his life, Paul travels to many countries throughout the northern and western Mediterranean preaching the Christian message.
 

Credit:Conflict and Community in the Corinthian Church

 

During the course of his ministry, he was persecuted repeatedly for his Christian faith.

2 Corinthians 11:23b-25

I have been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned…

Ultimately, Paul's preaching results in his execution in Rome under Nero.

  

St Paul's.tomb is located in Basilica of St Paul, in Rome. Saint Paul's Tomb  Latest archealogical findings (June 2009) indicate that the tomb is authentic.  Authenticity of St Paul's remains .

 

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