As a scholar in biblical studies, I can provide an overview of who Paul is within the context of the Bible. Paul, also known as Saul of Tarsus, is a pivotal figure in the New Testament. He is considered by many to be one of the most significant early Christian missionaries and theologians. His letters, known as the Pauline epistles, form a substantial part of the New Testament and have had a profound influence on Christian doctrine and practice. Paul was a Pharisee, a member of a Jewish sect known for its strict adherence to the Jewish law. He was born in Tarsus, an important city in the region of Cilicia, which was part of the Roman Empire. His Jewish heritage is significant, as he often emphasized his credentials as an Israelite, a member of the tribe of Benjamin, and a Hebrew born of Hebrews. He was well-educated in Jewish law and was zealous in his pursuit of what he believed to be the correct interpretation and application of that law. However, Paul's life took a dramatic turn on the road to Damascus, as described in the Book of Acts. According to this account, Paul was on his way to Damascus to arrest followers of the new sect of Christianity when he experienced a profound vision of the resurrected Jesus. This event, known as the "Damascus Road" experience, led to Paul's conversion to Christianity and his subsequent mission to spread the teachings of Jesus throughout the Roman Empire. Paul's missionary journeys were extensive and took him to various regions of the Mediterranean. He established churches in cities such as Philippi, Corinth, and Ephesus, and his letters to these communities provide insight into the early Christian communities and the challenges they faced. Paul's letters also address theological issues, such as the nature of salvation, the role of the law in the life of a believer, and the relationship between Jews and Gentiles in the Christian community. One of the key aspects of Paul's theology is the concept of justification by faith. Paul argued that salvation is not earned through adherence to the law but is a gift from God received by faith in Jesus Christ. This idea was revolutionary and helped to shape the distinctive character of Christianity as a separate religion from Judaism. Despite his significant contributions to the development of Christianity, Paul's legacy is not without controversy. Some of his teachings have been interpreted in ways that have led to divisions within the Christian community, and his letters have been subject to varying interpretations over the centuries. It is also worth noting that the Bible provides limited information about Paul's family. His nephew, the son of his sister, is mentioned in the Book of Acts, which suggests that Paul had at least one sibling. This mention of his nephew is significant because it is used to illustrate Paul's concern for the safety of his fellow believers and his willingness to risk his own life for the sake of the gospel. In conclusion, Paul is a complex and influential figure in the history of Christianity. His life, conversion, and teachings have left an indelible mark on the development of Christian thought and practice. As a scholar, it is important to approach the study of Paul with a critical and nuanced understanding of the historical and cultural context in which he lived and the ways in which his writings have been interpreted and applied throughout history. read more >>

Paul referred to himself as being "of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee". The Bible reveals very little about Paul's family. Paul's nephew, his sister's son, is mentioned in Acts 23:16.read more >>