biography
| name: |
Paul, St
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originally Saul of Tarsus
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| sex:
| male
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| lived:
| (?10–65/67 AD)
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| biography:
| Apostle to the Gentiles and important theologian of the early Christian Church, born of Jewish parents at Tarsus, Cilicia. He reputedly trained as a rabbi in Jerusalem, becoming a fervent Pharisee and persecutor of Christians. On his way to Damascus (AD c.34), he was converted to Christianity by a vision of Christ, and after several months in Nabatea began to preach the Christian message and undertake missionary journeys, first in Cyprus, Antioch of Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe. Around 49–51, he had to address an apostolic conference in Jerusalem on the disputed issue of how Gentiles and Jews were to be admitted to the Church (Gal 2.1–10; Acts 15.1–21), and a form of resolution was apparently reached which allowed him to continue his mission to the Gentiles, although a later dispute with Peter did arise in Antioch.
The precise chronology of his missionary activities is confused (beginning c.46), but other journeys took Paul, with Silvanus (Silas), to Asia Minor and through Galatia and Phrygia to Macedonia and Achaia, where in Corinth he was especially successful. An extensive mission was also undertaken in Ephesus, amid many difficulties, leading eventually to a final visit to Macedonia and Corinth. On his return to Jerusalem, he was apparently imprisoned for two years, following disturbances against him by the Jews. He was transferred to Caesarea and to Rome after appealing to Caesar; and according to later tradition, he was executed by Nero c.64 (although some traditions suggest that he was released and went to Spain). Thirteen New Testament letters are traditionally attributed to him, as well as some extracanonical works. Feast day 29 June. |
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