It's All in the Name Change

I find myself thinking about Paul more than any other Bible character; well, besides Jesus of course. Paul was one of the most influential figures in Christian history, and yet his roots led to actions that were steeped in grief, torment, and often death.

In those early days, he was known as Saul. Saul was born in Tarsus, a prominent city in modern-day Turkey. He was both a Jew from the tribe of Benjamin and a Roman citizen. According to my online research, he studied under the esteemed Gamaliel in Jerusalem, becoming a Pharisee zealous for the Mosaic Law. His dedication to preserving Jewish traditions led him to fiercely persecute early Christians, viewing them as a threat to his faith.

Saul’s campaign against Christians reached its height with his involvement in the stoning of Stephen, the first Christian martyr. On his way to Damascus to arrest more believers, a blinding light from heaven stopped him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice: “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” When he asked who was speaking, the answer came: “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” You can read more in Acts chapter 9.

Blinded by the encounter, Saul was led into Damascus, where he fasted and prayed for three days. God sent a disciple, Ananias, to restore his sight and baptize him. From that moment, Saul, now known as Paul, devoted his life to proclaiming the gospel.

Paul is credited with writing 13 of the 27 books in the New Testament: Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon.

Paul’s story is a powerful witness to the grace of God! And he did not take that grace lightly. He wrote in 1 Timothy 1:15: "The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost." ESV

Just think about it! A persecutor of Christians became one of their greatest advocates!

 Paul’s story, his life, shows me that that no one is beyond redemption. His life reminds me that transformation is possible for anyone willing to respond to God’s call.

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." 2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV

by Jeanette Stark – Wednesday, January 8, 2025