Brief

Arguably, Paul the Apostle (also known as Saul of Tarsus) is the most important figure in Christianity beyond Christ himself. It’s difficult to imagine the history of Christianity, or its contemporary version with the influence of Paul. Along with Simon Peter and James the Just, Paul was one of the most prominent early Christian leaders. For example, the writings of Paul became a significant portion of the New Testament, and his influence on Christian thought and philosophy persists into the 21^st century.

The New Testament indicates that Saul (which was his name before his conversion) dedicated himself to persecuting the early disciples of Jesus. The Book of Acts describes Saul’s journey from Jerusalem to Damascus to “bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem.” Along the way, the resurrected Jesus appeared before him in a great light, and he was struck blind. However, three days later Ananias of Damascus restored his sight, and Paul began to preach that Jesus of Nazareth is the Jewish Messiah and the Son of God.

Paul’s conversion changed his life. Through his missionary activity and writings, he transformed religion and philosophy around the Mediterranean Basin. His leadership, influence, and legacy created communities of Gentiles that worshiped the God of Israel, but relaxed or abandoned the ritual and dietary teachings of the Law of Moses. According to Paul, the old laws and rituals either were fulfilled during the life of Christ or were symbolic precursors of Christ. Paul’s teachings about the life and works of Jesus Christ slowly evolved into a New Covenant (New Testament) established by the death and resurrection Jesus.

Historically, 14 epistles in the New Testament are attributed to Paul (although modern scholars question attributing seven of them to Paul). Nevertheless, Augustine expanded Paul’s assertion that salvation is based on faith, rather than “works of the law.” Additionally, Martin Luther’s doctrine of sola fide stems directly from Paul’s writings; consequently, “faith alone” is foundational to Protestantism, and distinguishes it from Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodox Christianity.

The inscription on the bottom of the monument reads: “I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7-8.

This bronze depiction of Saint Paul was commissioned by Bob Scott of St. Paul the Apostle Church, Horseshoe Bay, TX, which is where this monument was placed.