Paul the Apostle

Who / What

Paul the Apostle, also known as Saint Paul or Saul of Tarsus, was a Christian apostle and missionary active in the first‑century AD. He is known primarily for his missionary journeys that spread the teachings of Jesus throughout Asia Minor and Europe.

Background & History

Born around 5 AD in Tarsus, Paul became a prominent early Christian preachers from the mid‑40s to the mid‑50s AD. He founded several Christian communities during his travels, and his letters and the Acts of the Apostles form a major portion of the New Testament. Though not one of the original Twelve Apostles, Paul’s influence helped shape the Apostolic Age.

Why Notable

Paul’s writings constitute a significant portion of Christian scripture and have shaped theological debates for centuries. His establishment of numerous churches broadened Christianity’s geographic reach. His transition from persecutor to proponent forged a new paradigm for mission work and scriptural interpretation.

In the News

Paul’s teachings continue to be studied in theological and scholarly circles, reinforcing his enduring relevance. Recent academic discussions often focus on revising the interpretation of his letters in light of early Christian historiography. His legacy remains a touchstone for faith, history, and cultural discourse.

Key Facts

**Type:** organization

**Also known as:** Paul the Apostle, Saint Paul, Saul of Tarsus

**Founded / Born:** c. 5 AD, Tarsus

**Key dates:** Mid‑40s to mid‑50s AD – founding of Christian communities; 64/65 AD – death

**Geography:** Tarsus, Asia Minor (modern Turkey) and mission routes in Europe and Asia Minor

**Affiliation:** Early Christianity, Christian church

Links

[Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_the_Apostle)

Sources

• 🔗 Wikipedia

Paul (born Saul of Tarsus; c. 5 – c. 64/65 AD), commonly known as Paul the Apostle or Saint Paul, was a Christian apostle who spread the teachings of Jesus in the first-century AD. For his contributions towards the New Testament, he is generally regarded as one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age, and he also founded several Christian communities in Asia Minor and Europe from the mid-40s to the mid-50s AD. The main sources of information on Paul's life and works are Paul's letters and the Acts of the Apostles in the New Testament. Approximately half of its content documents his travels, preaching, and miracles. Paul was not one of the Twelve Apostles, and he did not know Jesus during his lifetime.