The Asbury Journal

Article Title

From Saul to Paul: The Apostle's Name Change and Narrative Identity in Acts 13:9

Authors

David Wenkel, University of Aberdeen

Abstract

It has long been accepted as a safe conclusion that the difference between the names Saul and Paul in the Book of Acts merely reflects cultural accommodation in a Hellenistic milieu. This study challenges this conclusion by examining the literary pattern and narrative usage of names. This study concludes that the name change reflects the true identity of Paul amidst conflict with Bar-Jesus/Elymas. The name 'Paul' is significant because of its etymology and the information provided by the narrative.

DOI

10.7252/Journal.01.2011F.05

Recommended Citation

Wenkel, David (2011) "From Saul to Paul: The Apostle's Name Change and Narrative Identity in Acts 13:9," The Asbury Journal: Vol. 66: No. 2, p. 67-76.
Available at: https://place.asburyseminary.edu/asburyjournal/vol66/iss2/6