Meaning of Paul in the Bible
Meaning
“Small; the Roman name Paulus”
Paul, also called Saul, was a Jewish Pharisee who persecuted followers of Jesus before encountering the risen Christ on the road to Damascus. He became a missionary to Gentiles, planted and strengthened churches across the eastern Roman world, and appears throughout Acts as a preacher, teacher, prisoner, and witness. His letters form a substantial part of the New Testament and address the gospel, life in Christ, church life, suffering, mission, and hope.
Scripture References for Paul
7 key passages featuring this name
Acts 9:15
“But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:”
Acts 13:9
“Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him,”
Acts 17:2
“And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,”
Acts 20:24
“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.”
Romans 1:1
“Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,”
1 Corinthians 15:9
“For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.”
Galatians 1:15
“But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his grace,”
Associated Biblical Places
Related Biblical Names
The Name Paul in God's Word
Names in Scripture carry deep significance. Paul — meaning “Small; the Roman name Paulus” — reflects a truth about identity, purpose, and God's design. Meditate on these passages to understand what this name reveals about God's character and His people.
- Author:
- The Lord Will Editorial Team
- Reviewed by:
- Ugo Candido
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