Christianity Today Book Awards Biblical Studies Finalist (2025)

An engaging and accessible introduction to the life and world of Paul

In this fresh and engaging survey, Frank Thielman introduces readers to the life and world of the apostle Paul. Drawing on the Acts of the Apostles and Paul's canonical letters as well as noncanonical sources and archaeological records, Thielman constructs a vivid picture of the complex historical period and fascinating cultures in which Paul worked. At the same time, Thielman guides readers toward a deeper understanding of who Paul was, what he believed, and how he carried out his ministry.

Solidly grounded in Paul's own writings as well as scholarly research, the book explores a wide range of compelling questions: What drove Paul to endure often treacherous journeys of hundreds of miles to establish like-minded communities around the world as he knew it? What spurred him to recruit a network of co-workers who were willing to help him in this vast project? What kept him at the task even when it landed him in prison? What prompted him to produce a body of letters to these communities of such depth that millions of people still read them with profit today? Addressing these questions through careful and conservative research, Paul, Apostle of Grace is a worthy successor to F. F. Bruce's classic study and an essential resource for scholars and students of the Bible today.

Southwestern Journal of Theology Book of the Year (2025)