We can gain a better understanding of Paul the Apostle’s life and ministry by studying the emotional depth of his letters. The profound nature of Paul’s conversion experience might have left him with an attitude of spiritual superiority. However, Paul’s encounter with Jesus on the Damascus road yielded an entirely different result.
Although he possessed a brilliant intellect and held a position of authority, Paul had no difficulty expressing his emotions. For instance, he could be openly appreciative, as shown in the following portion of his Biblical letter to the Philippian church…
“I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me. Nevertheless, it was kind of you to share my troubles” (Philippians 4:13-14 GW).
Paul also expressed his thankfulness to the church at Thessalonica…
“We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father” (1 Thessalonians 1:12-3).
In addition, Paul spoke of his deep and abiding regard for two men named Titus and Timothy. For example, Paul referred to Timothy as “my own dearly loved son” (1 Timothy 1:2 Phillips) as well as “a beloved son” (2 Timothy 1:2), while characterizing Titus as, “a true son in the common faith” (Titus 1:4). This was typical of Paul’s ministry, for he clearly developed many close friendships over the course of his life. Consider the following comment to the members of the Corinthian church…
“I was glad about the arrival of Stephanus, Fortunatus, and Achaicus because they have supplied the fellowship with you that I lacked. For they refreshed my spirit and yours. So then, recognize people like this” (1 Corinthians 16:16-18 NET).
In fact, Paul will spend much of the final chapter of Romans conveying greetings to an extensive network of friends and associates. However, this is not to say that Paul was always well-received. He certainly faced his share of adversaries, as reflected in this excerpt from the book of 2 Timothy…
“Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm. May the Lord repay him according to his works. You also must beware of him, for he has greatly resisted our words” (2 Timothy 4:14-15).
Yet even in the face of great opposition, Paul still offered the following expression of encouragement…
“But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!” (2 Timothy 4:17-18).
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