Paul: A Novel

As a Christian, there are only a handful of books I recommend without hesitation. Paul: A Novel by Walter Wangerin Jr. is firmly on that short list. This is historical fiction done right—deeply faithful to the Book of Acts. It’s so vividly written that I felt transported back to the first century, witnessing the extraordinary inner workings of the most influential Christ-follower after John the Baptist. What I loved most was how Wangerin brought Paul’s character and the entire early churches' history to life with remarkable emotional depth. The Biblical accuracy blended seamlessly with rich imagination, making the telling of the story feel authentic and alive. His writing style is powerful and immersive, turning the familiar accounts from Acts into something even more vivid—like a super-amplified version of the Book of Acts that ministered directly to my spirit. I was especially moved watching the fiery passion of Saul transform into the deep faith and love of Paul. That shift from a man of hatred to a man of love drives home the power of Jesus’ influence in a profoundly memorable way. Reading this book deepened my understanding of Scripture and strengthened my faith in a way few books have. This novel blessed me very much. I even gave a copy to my mom. If I were in charge, I’d make Paul: A Novel required reading in every seminary. Whether you’re a pastor, a student of the Bible, or simply a believer who wants to experience the early church in fresh, living color, this book is a treasure. Thank you, Walter Wangerin Jr. Highly recommended—5 stars!

This is my 2nd time to order this book. First one was loaned out n never returned, lol. If you want to really gain insight into the life of Paul, I highly recommend this book. Paul was one who knew his walk would be filled with suffering and he accepted the call anyway, just like Jesus did. This book brings such depth and appreciation for the man called Paul. You will come to know him and love him all the more

I’m not a biblical scholar but reading this book can only improve my understanding of what was really happening during the beginning of Christian religion.

This book met all my expectations: in good condition, clean, very readable. The life of this giant is precious to me. This book fills in many life gaps of Paul.

Not being an author, I have always yearned for someone *else* to show the modern world what an incredible drama the stories of Paul & the early church hold. Wangerin has done a very good job, although I have some caveats to offer. On the positive side, the book does a fine job of character development in bringing some of the "stars" to life. Wangerin's James especially, as he struggles with his great respect for Paul & his angry astonishment at some of their differences, makes an impact on me. Some Christians may get anxious at the idea of Wangerin's artistic license as he speculates in order to flush out these characters, but rather than drawing one away from the scriptures, it brings a new excitement about them. At least in this reader! On the down side, the read is a little bumpy. Wangerin employs a variety of voices (Prisca, James, Timothy....interestingly enough, never Paul) to tell the story, and switching gears from person to person can be disorienting. So buckle yourself into your chariot before the journey, but then sit back & enjoy!

If one wants to read a story about St Paul... this is it! Using research and imagination Dr. Wangerin has masterfully written Paul's struggling story. Persecution of the Christians was his way of life and then he is their strongest advocate. May people have an eye opening turn of events that wake them to the faith life shared by Christians. And surely Paul had just that. Paul's humanity, love and care for the churches he founded broke his heart and his body. He did more than others to bring Christ's story to the people of the time. He was a great man and we Christians have much to be thankful for with him.

Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Very easy read and brought a humanity to the biblical characters. Obviously this is a work of fiction, so the author takes liberties, but I felt he tried to stay as close to the bible as possible, so you really don't feel like you're reading fiction. Have recommended this to many people.

Insight that Paul was both exceptional and human. Paul accepted his vocation, and let Christ take him to the ends of his world, his abilities, his talent

このシリーズは全巻通読しておりますが、この使徒行伝が一番、小説として完成度が高いと昔読んだ時に思いました。 ストーリーテリングも巧くて引きこまれるし、パウロがね、カッコいいヤツなんですよ(*'▽`*) 新約篇とイエスが完全に喰われちゃっててまずいです(-.-；) 余談ですが、「新約篇」じゃなく「福音書篇」というタイトルの方がよかった気がします。 個人的には、この小説に描かれているパウロとプリスキラとの決して一線を超えぬプラトニックな情愛が一つの理想形としてあります。 不屈の男・パウロが拷問された傷の痛みに苦しんでいて、プリスキラが介抱するシーンは見所の一つです。 未明の頃で、アキラは寝てて、パウロは手当てをしてもらいながら、誰にも話したことのない、しかし彼にとって一番大切な心の秘密を彼女だけに明かすのです。 パウロがアキラとプリスキラ夫婦の家に居候してたのも、しょっちゅうボコボコにリンチされてたのも聖書の記述通りですが、小説家の妄想力ってすごいですよね(￣＾￣；) まだまだ、この小説にはプリスキラ大活躍のオリジナル展開があります。 日本聖書協会の「みんなの聖書 マンガシリーズ」だと、パウロがまたチャーミングなイケメンで、プリスキラがまたかわいくて、「この絵でワンゲリンのシナリオをカバーしてほしい」と思いました。ややこしいな。

I was asked to read a biography of Paul. I had already studied him in the Scriptures, of course, and had commentaries on his books. This, although classed as a novel, was recommended to me. It brought Paul to life - a living, breathing human being, confronting the human nature of his own and of others. This book does not water down an extraordinary life; it gives flesh to the outline and brings St Paul wonderfully to life. After reading this, it left me feeling so humble at what he endured so that I can understand the relationship we have, or should be enjoying, with our Creator.

I read it a long time ago, but it has not lost anything since. It brings the period alive, and teaches so much about Paul - even if it is a novel -

There are better books around but none that wrap it all into a novel, like this does. Language style can be off putting for some but I liked it.

クリスチャンの洗礼を受けたばかりの私にとって大変に勉強になります。使徒パウロの改心の様子、様々な迫害が手に取るように学べました。もう一度聖書を勉強されたい方にも是非奨めます。