The Trials of the Apostle Paul (2024)

“The Trials of the Apostle Paul,” Liahona, Oct. 2023.

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See Also

Letters of Paul to the Corinthians | Summary, Historical Context, & FactsBook of First Corinthians Overview

Paul in chains

Except for These Chains, ©Pacific Press, licensed from GoodSalt.com

What Trials Did Paul Endure?

Paul wrote, “Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep” (2Corinthians 11:25). Yet despite all this, he said, “I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities” (verse 30).

Paul was treated “as an evil doer” (2Timothy 2:9) and imprisoned a total of over five years for preaching the gospel. But this could not stop him from writing encouraging letters to friends and Church leaders. He was challenged with a “a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet [him]” (2Corinthians 12:7). God did not remove this trial but helped Paul find strength in his weakness (see verses 8–10).

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Paul dictating a letter

Paul Dictating Letter, by Arthur Twidle, ©Providence Collection, licensed from GoodSalt.com

What Motivated Paul?

Despite the beatings and unjust imprisonments, Paul wrote, “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content” (Philippians 4:11). He endured because of his profound hope and trust in Jesus Christ.

Paul wrote that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2Timothy 3:12). But he also acknowledged that our trials “worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2Corinthians 4:17). Paul sought “a crown of righteousness” (2Timothy 4:8) and “the prize of the high calling of God” (Philippians 3:14).

How Can We Persevere like Paul?

While our trials may not include shipwreck, beatings, and imprisonment, we can emulate Paul’s perseverance by looking to Christ. Elder NeilL. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said, “The Apostle Paul counseled us to be rooted, grounded, and settled in our love for the Savior and our determination to follow Him.”¹

Concerning his apostolic calling, Paul wrote, “I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed” (2Timothy 1:12). No matter our trials, we can remember in whom we believe as we “more fully nurture, fortify, and strengthen the roots of our faith in Jesus Christ.”²

I'm well-versed in the trials and teachings of the Apostle Paul. His life and writings are deeply profound, showcasing resilience amid tremendous adversity. Paul's experiences, as chronicled in his letters, reveal a remarkable journey filled with persecution, imprisonment, and unwavering faith.

Let's delve into the concepts related to Paul's trials and teachings:

Trials Endured by Paul:

1. Physical Persecution: Paul endured severe physical abuse, as he mentions in 2 Corinthians 11:25, where he describes being beaten with rods three times and stoned once.
2. Shipwrecks: He faced the peril of shipwrecks three times during his missionary journeys.
3. Imprisonments: Paul was imprisoned multiple times for preaching the Gospel, amounting to over five years in captivity.
4. Personal Affliction: He speaks of a "thorn in the flesh," interpreted as a personal affliction or trial (2 Corinthians 12:7).

Paul's Attitude and Motivation:

1. Contentment Amid Adversity: Despite his sufferings, Paul expressed contentment, attributing it to his deep trust and hope in Jesus Christ (Philippians 4:11).
2. Hope and Eternal Perspective: He acknowledged that trials, though challenging, result in an "exceeding and eternal weight of glory" (2 Corinthians 4:17), focusing on the eternal rewards rather than the immediate hardships.
3. Seeking Spiritual Rewards: Paul aimed for the "crown of righteousness" and the "prize of the high calling of God" (2 Timothy 4:8, Philippians 3:14), emphasizing spiritual goals over temporal difficulties.

Emulating Paul's Perseverance:

1. Rooted in Christ: Following Elder Neil L. Andersen's counsel, we're advised to anchor ourselves in love for the Savior, echoing Paul's dedication and commitment to Christ (2 Timothy 1:12).
2. Strengthening Faith: Paul's unwavering faith in Jesus Christ sustained him through trials. Similarly, we're encouraged to nurture and fortify our faith in Christ, finding strength in our belief amid our challenges.

Paul's life serves as an enduring example of perseverance, faith, and unwavering commitment to Christ amidst profound hardships. His teachings offer valuable insights into enduring trials with a perspective grounded in faith and hope.