Saul, who later became known as Paul, was a biblical figure who played a significant role in the early spread of Christianity. Saul was born in Tarsus, a city in modern-day Turkey, and was a member of the Jewish faith. He was educated in the law and was a zealous Pharisee who persecuted Christians before he converted to Christianity.

Saul first appears in the Bible in the book of Acts, where he is described as being present at the stoning of the Christian martyr Stephen. He then sets out to persecute Christians in Jerusalem and beyond, and is said to have been “breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples” (Acts 9:1). Saul even obtained letters from the high priest to authorize him to arrest any Christians he found in Damascus.

However, on his way to Damascus, Saul has a dramatic encounter with Jesus Christ, who appears to him in a blinding light and speaks to him. This experience led to Saul’s conversion to Christianity, and he became a passionate believer in Christ. After his conversion, Saul changed his name to Paul and began preaching and teaching about Jesus Christ. He became a missionary and traveled extensively throughout the Roman Empire, establishing churches and spreading the message of Christ.

Paul is credited with writing many of the letters in the New Testament, which provide guidance and instruction to early Christians. His writings focus on the grace of God and the importance of faith in Christ, and he emphasizes that salvation is available to all who believe. Paul’s teachings have had a profound influence on Christian theology and continue to shape Christian thought and practice today.