St Paul The Apostle Research Paper

Saint Paul the Apostle preached the Good News everywhere, establishing churches and authoring more than a dozen Epistles that helped Christianity flourish. Despite never actually meeting Jesus, his prolific writings earned him the title of the great evangelizer. Saint Paul preaches that despite the challenges of the present world, true disciples put on Christ and live a virtuous life filled with faith, hope and love. Although most people desire to avoid suffering, the letters of St. Paul underscore the importance of embracing trials and tribulations, because through difficult circumstances Christians learn to imitate Christ.

Not surprisingly, Paul employed the primary communication device of the times to share his passion and conviction with

Paul describes pouring himself out as an offering for Christ (Phil 2:17). By dedicating his entire life to Christ, Paul follows the way of Christ, who gave his whole life to the Father.

Notwithstanding Paul’s status in the community, Paul’s pedigree, failed to prevent him from numerous personal trials and suffering. He endured beatings, flogging, and even stoning. Pursued by bandits, Paul experienced many days of hunger and thirst, sleepless nights and, threats against his life by the Gentiles and Jews. Paul often escaped these situations only to be shipwrecked or imprisoned! Despite it all, Paul continued to find strength and endurance in the example of Christ.

Jesus Christ emptied himself, humbled himself, and became obedient to the point of death. For this reason, Paul instructs the faithful to rejoice in the Lord always and to not worry about anything. “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil

Written primarily for the Israelites, Paul argues in his letter to the Thessalonians that Jesus had to suffer, so that He might rise again. He opines that moral struggles reflect the practical and personal expression of one’s Christian faith, hope and love (1 Thes 5:8). This is the earliest reference to the theological virtues. Paul describes faith an attitude that shapes actions. Faith in Christ produces certain fruits, or works of salvation. Hope in Christ points to a resurrection after suffering and death. Love of Christ represents sacrificial giving, putting the needs of others before