Supplementary Lesson 1: The Life of Paul

Paul was born in Tarsus, probably in a wealthy family, since they were roman citizens. His name before conversion was "Saul," meaning "asked for" (“Paulos” means “little”).

He studied the Scriptures in the synagogue, along with all the Jewish children, starting at five years of age. From ten to thirteen, he would study the Jewish legal traditions. At thirteen, he would become a “bar mitzvah”, a “son of the commandment,” taking on the responsibility of keeping the law.

As a young man, he went to Jerusalem to study with Gamaliel (Acts 22:3). He began to persecute Christians, and was present during the stoning of Stephen, showing his approval (Acts 7:58 - 8:1).

Mark each of the phrases that correctly describe Paul.