The transition from Saul to Paul in the Scriptures is noted in the Book of Acts. This change is observed in Acts 13:9, where it states, “But Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him.” This verse is significant because it marks the first time in the New Testament that the name Paul is used, and from this point forward, the narrative of Acts refers to him as Paul.

It’s important to note that the text does not explicitly describe this as a formal name change nor does it provide a specific reason for the dual naming. Instead, it seems to reflect a common practice of the time, especially among Jews living in the Roman Empire, to have both a Hebrew name and a Roman or Greek name. Saul was his Hebrew name, and Paul was his Roman name. Given that his ministry was largely to the Gentiles, it makes sense that he would use Paul, a name more familiar to those he was trying to reach.

The transformation of Saul to Paul, in terms of his identity, is more about his conversion and mission change from persecuting Christians to becoming a champion of the Christian faith, rather than the simple changing of a name. His letters and missionary journeys, as detailed in the New Testament, underscore the profound impact of his conversion and the depth of his commitment to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.