The Apostle Paul was one of the leaders of early Christianity, founder of many Christian congregations, and the author of several "letters" now found in the New Testament.
The ministry and missionary journeys of the apostle Paul are described in the book of Acts. The New Testament "epistles" (letters) Romans through Philemon are attributed to him.
Paul, also known as Saul of Tarsus, was a devout Pharisee and studied under Gamliel. He had been hostile to Christianity prior to a vision he received on the road to Damascus. He dramatically changed course, and went on to become a bold missionary and representative of the Christian faith throughout much of the Roman Empire.
Paul is referred to as an apostle both in Acts and in his letters. 1 Clement chapter 5 and later Christian history indicate he was martyred during the Neronian persecution sometime between AD 64 and AD 68.
