There is a common thought that the Apostle Paul received a miraculous change of name as he began his ministry. Some might suppose that the change occurred at the time of his dramatic conversion (Acts 9:1-31). However, there is no mention of a name change in this context.
The book of Acts uses the name Saul from chapter 7 through chapter 13:7. But then in Acts 13:9, it plainly states, “But Saul, who was also known as Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, fixed his gaze on him…” There are no other details as to how or why Paul began to use his new name.
‘Saul’ was the apostle’s Hebrew, given name and means “desired or asked for.” ‘Paul’ is of Latin origin meaning “little.” Perhaps the Apostle Paul preferred to be called “little” out of humility of heart? He did refer to himself as the “least of the apostles.” 1 Corinthians 15:9, “For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.”
After this verse in Acts 13, the remainder of references identify the apostle as ‘Paul.’
Additional Resource: Christian Questions Podcast Episode #1113: “Paul or Matthias: Who Was the Real 12th Apostle? Contradictions Series” Clear evidence to prove Paul or Matthias as the 12th Apostle Preview Video CQ Rewind Show Notes
For parents, children and Bible class teachers: CQ Kids Video – “What happened on the road to Damascus?”
