The Trials of the Apostle Paul

What helped Paul endure adversity?

Except for These Chains, © Pacific Press, licensed from GoodSalt.com

What Trials Did Paul Endure?

Paul wrote, “Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep” (2 Corinthians 11:25). Yet despite all this, he said, “I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities” (verse 30).

Paul was treated “as an evil doer” (2 Timothy 2:9) and imprisoned a total of over five years for preaching the gospel. But this could not stop him from writing encouraging letters to friends and Church leaders. He was challenged with a “a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet [him]” (2 Corinthians 12:7). God did not remove this trial but helped Paul find strength in his weakness (see verses 8–10).

Paul Dictating Letter, by Arthur Twidle, © Providence Collection, licensed from GoodSalt.com

What Motivated Paul?

Despite the beatings and unjust imprisonments, Paul wrote, “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content” (Philippians 4:11). He endured because of his profound hope and trust in Jesus Christ.

Paul wrote that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12). But he also acknowledged that our trials “worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Corinthians 4:17). Paul sought “a crown of righteousness” (2 Timothy 4:8) and “the prize of the high calling of God” (Philippians 3:14).

How Can We Persevere like Paul?

While our trials may not include shipwreck, beatings, and imprisonment, we can emulate Paul’s perseverance by looking to Christ. Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said, “The Apostle Paul counseled us to be rooted, grounded, and settled in our love for the Savior and our determination to follow Him.”¹

Concerning his apostolic calling, Paul wrote, “I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed” (2 Timothy 1:12). No matter our trials, we can remember in whom we believe as we “more fully nurture, fortify, and strengthen the roots of our faith in Jesus Christ.”²