Paul the Apostle (c. AD 5 – c. AD 67; variously referred to as the "Apostle Paul" or "Saint Paul") also known as Saul of Tarsus, is one of the most influential early Christian missionaries and leaders of the first generation of Christians. Among the many other apostles and missionaries involved in the spread of the Christian faith, Paul is often considered to be one of the two most important people in the history of Christianity, and one of the greatest religious leaders of all time. Almost half of the books of the New Testament are credited to his authorship. He was responsible for spreading the gospel of Christianity through early Christian communities across the Roman Empire. From the mid-30s to the mid-50s he established several churches in Asia Minor and at least three in Europe, including the church at Corinth.

According to the New Testament and Christian tradition, before becoming a follower of Christianity, Saul zealously persecuted the newly-forming Church, trying to destroy it. Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus dramatically changed the course of his life. He began to preach that Jesus of Nazareth is the Jewish Messiah and the Son of God.^{[Acts 9:20-21]} Through his missionary activities and writings he eventually transformed religious belief and philosophy around the Mediterranean Basin. His leadership, influence, and legacy led to the formation of communities dominated by Gentile groups that worshiped the "God of Israel", adhered to the "Judaic moral code", but relaxed or abandoned the ritual and dietary teachings of the Law of Moses. He taught that these laws and rituals had either been fulfilled in the life of Christ or were symbolic precursors of Christ. Paul taught of the life and works of Jesus Christ and his teaching of a New Covenant (or "new testament") established through Jesus' death and resurrection. The Bible does not record Paul's death.