This is just a short educational post, to clear the air on a very common misconception which seems to often present itself in reflection of Paul's story. Saul never became Paul.
Yes, you read that correctly.
Many people believe God changed Saul’s name to Paul at his conversion, but the Bible never says that. Saul was always both Saul and Paul. As a Jew born with Roman citizenship, he naturally carried two names- Saul (Hebrew) and Paul (Latin).
The shift happens in Acts 13:9: “Saul, who was also called Paul…”
Nothing changed. Luke simply starts using the Roman name (of Paul) once Saul begins ministering to the Gentiles. It was strategy, not identity change. To one group, he was Paul, to the other, Saul. This was very common in this culture.
So unlike Abram, who became known as Abraham, or Simon who became known as Peter, Saul didn’t stop being Saul. Paul didn’t replace his namesake.
Instead, God redirected the same man with a new mission. The true transformation wasn’t a name change- it was a heart change, a calling change, and a destiny realigned by Jesus.
Feel free to share this with others, so that we are teaching a correct and accurate account of the stories conveyed to us biblically. And before doing so, please never simply take our word- as with anything posted here or elsewhere, please check this against scripture, which is our measuring stick for truth. There's confidence in knowing for yourselves, but this also helps to identify those who are genuine teachers of the word, versus the wolves dressed in lambs clothing.
Blessings!
~ Devin
Devin Osborne
