Paul: Theologian

About this article

This reflection centers on the core of all Christian theology which is the profound reality of the significance of the Passion, death, and Resurrection of Jesus.
They were attempting to kill [Paul]. When the believers learned of it . . . they sent him off to Tarsus. (Acts of the Apostles 9:29–30)
After his conversion, Paul began to preach, but when it became too dangerous, he was sent to Tarsus. Tradition tells us that Paul spent several years reflecting on Jesus' life, Passion, death, and Resurrection. Through prayer, study, and reflection, Paul developed a theology that served as the foundation of his preaching of the Gospel of Jesus.

We need to reflect on the mysteries of our faith to grow in understanding and to know which direction to take in life. Two great tools to guide our reflection are the Bible and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. You may want to seek out youth-friendly versions of these.

How much time do you spend each week in learning about your faith?
God, help me create time in my busy life to study and reflect on my faith.
  • To go deeper: Read Acts of the Apostles 9:19–31.

    • Acknowledgments

    (This activity is taken from Day by Day with People of the Bible: Reflections for Teens. Copyright © 2008 by Saint Mary's Press. Permission is granted for this activity to be used for classroom or campus ministry purposes. This activity may not be republished in any form without written permission from Saint Mary's Press. To order this book, contact Saint Mary's Press at 800-533-8095, or visit our online catalog at www.smp.org/catalog.cfm.)

    Published July 2, 2008.