Who Is Paul?

Study One (Titus 1:1)

Paul: His identity, his station, and his purpose.

In this study, as the first few words of Titus discuss, we will discuss Paul. The apostle Paul, how he is, and the nature of his reason in writing this letter. It is simple fact that to best understand the letter, or any letter, one must understand who the sender is. Who is the author, and why does he write? What kind of person is he? All these things help in understanding the letter.

So, who is Paul? The name Paul is παυλον (pronounced “paulon” in the Greek), which literally means ‘small or little.’ This is interesting, considering Paul is a huge figure in the New Testament, and perhaps the greatest apostle to the Gentiles that we know of. However, his name is called ‘little.’ Why is this? For several reasons, perhaps, one of which could be that before his conversation, Paul was exactly the opposite: He was concerned only for being made much of, for status, and for personal pride. 

In the case of Saul, his purpose to become great and large. His changing of name to Paul might perhaps reflect his changed character to a full one hundred and eighty degrees, the sudden moving of the Holy Spirit to alter his self-focus to considering himself of ‘small or little’ importance. Also, we know that Paul was given a thorn in his side, so that he would not be too self-exalting. We know that Paul struggled with pride issues occasionally, though of course, as always, our Lord and the sanctifying of His Spirit win out in the end. Though Paul’s depraved nature sought to make much of himself, his name after regeneration testifies that his life purpose is now to be little in comparison to Christ, and to serving others. We can also assume that now, fully perfected in the Kingdom above, Paul lives up to his true name, making little of himself and making much of the King.

We will continue study one shortly! Please, any comments or thoughts are welcome below. 

God bless!

~Alex

Phil. 4:13