I used the library’s online catalog to begin my search for a book using the keywords “Paul” and “Christianity” because I was interested in how Paul influenced the spread of Christianity throughout history. I find it fascinating that one man could make such an impact on the world. The first result that appeared was Paul and Jesus: How the Apostle Transformed Christianity. I felt this title grasped the general idea I hope to expand on with my paper- the origins of how Paul began his journey to spread the gospel. I am interested in further investigating Christianity before and after Paul.

After a brief flip through I found this book to cover a variety of topics including a timeline of major events and figures, a map of cities Paul visited, Christianity before Paul, and reading the gospels from Paul’s perspective. I found the map and timeline particularly helpful as they each gave me glimpse in the general events and cities part of Paul’s history. I know have a more concrete understanding of when Paul’s journey began at his conversion, when he began to write his letters and preach, and eventually executed. As I flipped through the chapters I found the organization to be helpful as many of the writer’s ideas are supported by references to passages in the Bible. It aids in my understanding of the foundation of Paul’s teachings. There are also extensive notes that cover each chapter in detail regarding the author’s sources.

I know this is a credible source because the author is not only the chair of the department of religious studies at the University of Carolina at Charlotte but also holds a Ph.D. in biblical studies from the University of Chicago and is an expert on Christian origins. In addition to his writing and teaching, he has also done field work in archaeology at a number of sites in Israel and Jordan.