The name Paul, derived from the Latin “Paulus,” means “small” or “humble.” In the New Testament, Paul is an apostle known for his missionary work and letters to early Christian communities, emphasizing grace and faith.
Scripture
9 But Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him
10 and said, “You son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, full of all deceit and villainy, will you not stop making crooked the straight paths of the Lord?
11 And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you will be blind and unable to see the sun for a time.” So immediately mist and darkness fell upon him, and he went about seeking people to lead him by the hand.
12 Then the proconsul believed, when he saw what had occurred, for he was astonished at the teaching of the Lord.
Meaning of “Paul” in the Bible
The name Paul, meaning “small” or “humble,” carries significant theological implications within the context of the New Testament. Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, transformed from a fervent persecutor of Christians to one of the most influential apostles of the Christian faith. His humility is vividly portrayed in his writings, particularly in 2 Corinthians 12:9, where he acknowledges that God’s strength is made perfect in weakness. This paradox of strength in humility reflects the core tenets of Christian doctrine, emphasizing that God’s grace is abundant for those who recognize their limitations.
Furthermore, Paul’s humility and transformation serve as a model for believers. In Philippians 2:5-7, Paul encourages Christians to adopt the mindset of Christ, who “made himself nothing” and took on the nature of a servant. This Christlike humility underpins many of Paul’s teachings; his letters often stress the importance of being small in one’s own eyes while exalting God’s greatness. Through Paul’s life and teachings, the concept of being “small” or “humble” is not merely a personal attribute but a profound spiritual principle that invites believers to rely on God, to serve others, and to find strength in surrendering themselves to His will.
Beyond his personal transformation and the symbol of humility encapsulated in his name, Paul’s ministry and apostolic missions further embody the thematic elements of being “small” before God. Throughout the Acts of the Apostles, Paul humbly approaches various communities, preaching the gospel not from a position of power or privilege, but as a servant to all. His journey from Saul to Paul reflects a divine calling that emphasizes reliance on God rather than personal status or greatness. This humility in service is echoed in his interactions with diverse groups, where he often identifies with their experiences and acknowledges his own shortcomings, fostering a sense of unity and shared faith.
In his letters, Paul frequently acknowledges his limitations and the challenges he faces as a messenger of Christ. For example, in 1 Timothy, he reflects on his past life as a chief of sinners, which exemplifies how he viewed himself in light of Christ’s grace. This acknowledgment serves to inspire others by exemplifying that no one, regardless of their past failings, is beyond the reach of God’s love and purpose. Thus, Paul’s humble recognition of his own inadequacies ultimately becomes a powerful tool for evangelism, inviting others to experience the transformative power of the gospel. His name, which signifies “small,” stands as a constant reminder that true greatness in the faith lies not in worldly accolades but in choosing a life devoted to service, love, and the glorification of God above self.
The Transformation of Identity
The name Paul, derived from the Latin “Paulus,” meaning “small” or “humble,” reflects a significant transformation in the life of its bearer. Originally known as Saul, a name associated with a king of Israel, Paul’s renaming symbolizes his shift from a life of persecution against Christians to one of profound faith and leadership within the early Church. This change highlights the theme of humility and the idea that greatness in the Kingdom of God often comes through servitude and selflessness.
The Missionary Calling
Paul’s name also embodies his role as a missionary and apostle to the Gentiles. His humble beginnings and subsequent rise to prominence illustrate the idea that God can use anyone, regardless of their past, to fulfill His purposes. The name Paul serves as a reminder of the universal call to spread the Gospel, emphasizing that the message of Christ is for all people, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries.
The Legacy of Teaching and Doctrine
In addition to his missionary work, Paul’s name is synonymous with theological depth and doctrinal teaching. His epistles form a significant portion of the New Testament, providing foundational teachings on faith, grace, and the nature of the Church. The name Paul thus represents not only a personal identity but also a legacy of instruction and guidance for future generations of believers, underscoring the importance of sound doctrine in the Christian faith.
How to Embrace Humility in Your Christian Walk
Embracing humility in your Christian walk is a transformative journey that begins with a heart open to God’s grace. It’s about recognizing that we are all flawed and in need of His mercy, just as much as anyone else. Start by reflecting on Philippians 2:3-4, which encourages us to consider others better than ourselves and to look out for their interests. This mindset shifts our focus from self-promotion to service, allowing us to cultivate genuine relationships rooted in love and respect. Practically, you can practice humility by listening more than you speak, seeking to understand rather than to be understood, and being willing to admit when you’re wrong. Remember, humility isn’t about thinking less of yourself, but rather thinking of yourself less. As you walk this path, you’ll find that true strength lies in surrendering your pride and embracing the beautiful community that God has called you to be a part of.
Bible References to the Name Paul:
Acts 9:1-19: 1 But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest
2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.
3 Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him.
4 And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?”
5 And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.
6 But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.”
7 The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one.
8 Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus.
9 And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
10 Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”
11 And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying,
12 and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.”
13 But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints in Jerusalem.
14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.”
15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.
16 For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.
17 So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”
18 And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized.
19 and taking food, he was strengthened.
Acts 22:6-21: 6 “As I was on my way and drew near to Damascus, about noon a great light from heaven suddenly shone around me.
7 And I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?’
8 And I answered, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ And he said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.’
9 Now those who were with me saw the light but did not understand the voice of the one who was speaking to me.
10 And I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Rise, and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all that is appointed for you to do.’
11 And since I could not see because of the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand by those who were with me, and came into Damascus.
And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, well spoken of by all the Jews who lived there,
And when the blood of Stephen your witness was being shed, I myself was standing by and approving and watching over the garments of those who killed him.
And he said, ‘The God of our fathers appointed you to know his will, to see the Righteous One and to hear a voice from his mouth;
15 For you will be a witness for him to everyone of what you have seen and heard.
And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name.
When I had returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, I fell into a trance.
And saw him saying to me, ‘Make haste and get out of Jerusalem quickly, because they will not accept your testimony about me.’
19 And I said, ‘Lord, they themselves know that in one synagogue after another I imprisoned and beat those who believed in you.
20 And when the blood of Stephen your witness was being shed, I myself was standing by and approving and watching over the garments of those who killed him.’
And he said to me, ‘Go, for I will send you far away to the Gentiles.’”
Acts 26:12-18: 12 “In this connection I journeyed to Damascus with the authority and commission of the chief priests.”
13 At midday, O king, I saw on the way a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, that shone around me and those who journeyed with me.
And when we had all fallen to the ground, I heard a voice saying to me in the Hebrew language, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’
15 And I said, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ And the Lord said, ‘I am Jesus whom you are persecuting.
16 But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you,
17 delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles—to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’
18 to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’
Philippians 3:4-11: 4 though I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh also. If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more:
5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee;
6 as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless.
7 But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ.
8 Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.
9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith—
10 that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,
11 that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead.
1 Timothy 1:12-17: 12 I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service,
13 though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief.
14 and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
15 The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.
16 But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life.
17 To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.
2 Corinthians 11:22-33: 22 Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they offspring of Abraham? So am I.
23 Are they servants of Christ? I am a better one—I am talking like a madman—with far greater labors, far more imprisonments, with countless beatings, and often near death.
24 Five times I received at the hands of the Jews the forty lashes less one.
25 Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I was adrift at sea;
26 on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from robbers, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brothers;
27 in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure.
28 And, apart from other things, there is the daily pressure on me of my anxiety for all the churches.
29 Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to fall, and I am not indignant?
30 If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.
31 The God and Father of the Lord Jesus, he who is blessed forever, knows that I am not lying.
32 In Damascus, the governor under King Aretas was guarding the city of Damascus in order to seize me.
33 but I was let down in a basket through a window in the wall and escaped his hands.
Galatians 1:11-24: 11 For I would have you know, brothers, that the gospel that was preached by me is not man’s gospel.
12 For I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ.
For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it.
14 And I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers.
15 But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace,
16 to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone;
17 nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia, and returned again to Damascus.
18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and remained with him fifteen days.
19 But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother.
20 (In what I am writing to you, before God, I do not lie!)
21 Then I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia.
22 And I was still unknown in person to the churches of Judea that are in Christ.
23 They only were hearing it said, “He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.”
24 And they glorified God because of me.
Romans 1:1-7: 1 Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God,
2 which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures,
3 concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh
4 and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord,
5 through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations,
6 including you who are called to belong to Jesus Christ,
7 To all those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:9-10: 9 For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.