The New Testament does not provide specific details about the death of the Apostle Paul. Most historical accounts and traditions suggest that Paul was martyred in Rome, likely through beheading, around AD 64-68.
This period aligns with the time of Emperor Nero’s persecution of Christians, which began after the great fire of Rome in AD 64.
Nero’s persecution was brutal, and many Christians, including possibly both Paul and Peter, were executed.
Peter is traditionally believed to have been crucified, while Paul, being a Roman citizen, is thought to have been beheaded.
These events are derived from early Christian writings and historical sources outside the New Testament.
Potential Death Cause Discussed
Paul’s letter to the Romans, written around AD 57, likely represents one of his last writings.
In it, Paul expresses his plan to visit Rome on his way to Spain. Historical accounts suggest that Paul was in Rome during Emperor Nero’s persecution of Christians, which began after the great fire of Rome in AD 64.
This period of persecution likely led to Paul’s martyrdom, with many believing he was beheaded around this time, possibly alongside Peter, who was crucified.
Paul, being a Roman citizen, was likely executed by beheading rather than crucifixion, which was reserved for non-citizens. There is no definitive evidence about the location of his burial.
Albert Barnes notes that traditions suggest either a noblewoman named Lucina buried him near the Ostian Road or that his body was interred in the catacombs, though these claims lack solid proof.
Today, the church of St. Paul’s Outside-the-Walls is believed to mark the location where Paul was killed.
It’s possible that Paul’s death might not have been directly related to Nero’s persecution after the great fire.
Regardless of the exact circumstances of his death, Paul’s life and ministry were instrumental in establishing and spreading the Christian faith.
His writings and missionary work significantly shaped early Christianity and continue to influence Christian doctrine and practice today.
