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Paul Tarsus Character Analysis

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Paul is often considered one of the most influential people of all times. He was able to go from being in a very bad state of mind religiously, to completely transforming and being gifted with a second chance by God. God wanted him to pass his message along so everyone would hear. Through his childhood and personality, it is evident that Paul was raised in an atmosphere in which he could thrive in educationally, and exhibit beneficial characteristics like his great knowledge. This was all important and made a difference in the way he was able to pass on the message of the Gospel by using past wisdom and by receiving a good education. Saul’s birthplace in Tarsus was important in the way he was raised because he was surrounded by the business …show more content…

(Hahn 13) Tarsus was known for its mountains lining its boundaries and the short distance away from the coast which was beneficial for trade routes. (Swindoll 5) He seemed to have a pretty nice atmosphere to grow up in, in addition to being surrounded by his parents. Swindoll talks about his peaceful childhood and says, ““Admittedly, when we return to the birthplace and childhood, the setting was not marked by anger and violence.” (Swindoll 4) He was surrounded by his parents who were both Jewish which allowed for a strong religious connection within the family. Acts 21:39 is how he described himself as being “A Jew from Tarsus.” He was proud of where he came from and of the religion he practiced. His family was also well off, and they could provide for him what he needed for a positive future. Money was not an issue in his household. (Webster) Acts 22:2-5 describes Gamaliel being his teacher. When he was sent to school, he had the opportunity to be taught by Gamaliel, who gave him much needed reason and advice. At the time, Saul did not fully understand Gamaliel. Gamaliel was a big influence in …show more content…

He flaunted a natural leader attitude and wanted to always take charge for what he believed in. Saul was very passionate about everything he did. He was amazed by the idea that God was giving him a second chance after how much sin he had committed. Through 2 Cor. 10:10, it is evident that Paul was able to express himself better on pen and paper rather than in front of a large group of people. He is endlessly grateful for God giving him a second chance at life, that he would sacrifice himself and put himself through every obstacle in order to honor God. One of the qualities he displays through verses like 2 Timothy 4:6-8 is determination. He wants to do the best he can in order to make up for his past. He understands that he must not think too much about the past and has to work on himself as a person. He openly admits what he had done wrong in the past and does not falter on any of it. He is grateful for the mercy that was shed on his life, that he would devote his life to Christ and spreading the gospel as the Apostle Paul. Part of the reason he starts to truly understand the Gospel is because he is reflecting back on what has been given to him in ways he might not have even thought of before . His parents, good education, and mentors along the way were blessings sent by God, even though Paul might not have fully understood everything at the time. Saul’s rampage was going on and on and he went as far

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