Topical Bible: Paul: Escapes by Being Let Down from the Wall in a Basket; Goes to Jerusalem

◄ Paul: Escapes by Being Let Down from the Wall in a Basket; Goes to Jerusalem ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Apostle Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, is a central figure in the New Testament, renowned for his missionary journeys and theological contributions to early Christianity. One of the pivotal moments in Paul's early ministry is his dramatic escape from Damascus, where he was let down from the city wall in a basket, followed by his consequential visit to Jerusalem.

Escape from Damascus

Paul's escape from Damascus is recorded in the Book of Acts and referenced in his second letter to the Corinthians. After his conversion on the road to Damascus, Paul began to preach boldly in the synagogues, proclaiming Jesus as the Son of God. His transformation from a persecutor of Christians to a fervent apostle of Christ astonished many and quickly drew the ire of the Jewish leaders in Damascus.

Acts 9:23-25 recounts the plot against Paul: "After many days had passed, the Jews conspired to kill him, but Saul learned of their plot. Day and night they watched the city gates in order to kill him. One night, however, his disciples took him and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall."

This escape highlights the immediate danger Paul faced as a new convert and preacher of the Gospel. The use of a basket to lower him from the city wall underscores the urgency and peril of the situation. It also reflects the early Christian community's resourcefulness and commitment to protecting their leaders.

In 2 Corinthians 11:32-33 , Paul provides additional details: "In Damascus, the governor under King Aretas secured the city of the Damascenes in order to arrest me. But I was lowered in a basket through a window in the wall and escaped his grasp." This account emphasizes the political and religious opposition Paul encountered, as well as the divine providence that enabled his escape.

Journey to Jerusalem

Following his escape from Damascus, Paul traveled to Jerusalem. This visit was significant as it marked his first return to the city as a Christian. Acts 9:26-28 describes his initial reception: "When Saul arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing he was a disciple. Then Barnabas brought him to the apostles and described how Saul had seen the Lord on the road to Damascus and how the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had spoken boldly in the name of Jesus. So Saul stayed with them, moving about freely in Jerusalem and speaking boldly in the name of the Lord."

Barnabas, known for his encouragement and discernment, played a crucial role in vouching for Paul, facilitating his acceptance among the apostles. This endorsement was vital for Paul's integration into the early Christian community and for establishing his credibility as an apostle.

During his time in Jerusalem, Paul engaged in debates with the Hellenistic Jews, further demonstrating his zeal and commitment to spreading the Gospel. However, his bold preaching once again incited opposition, leading to another plot against his life. Acts 9:29-30 notes, "He talked and debated with the Hellenists, but they tried to kill him. When the brothers learned of this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus."

Paul's journey to Jerusalem and subsequent departure to Tarsus illustrate the challenges and dangers he faced as a proclaimer of the Gospel. These events also underscore the early Church's protective measures for its leaders and the divine guidance that directed Paul's path, ultimately shaping his future missionary endeavors.