Theological Explorations

It is with a sense of shared journey and profound gratitude that I welcome you to explore the life, mind, and enduring legacy of the Apostle Paul through these writings. For me, delving into Paul’s world—his dramatic transformation, his complex theology, his tireless ministry, and the powerful letters he left behind—has been a deeply personal and intellectually invigorating pursuit. Paul remains a figure of immense inspiration, a “chosen vessel” whose encounter with the divine fundamentally altered not only his own identity but the course of history.

In my books, whether I am attempting a creative reconstruction like a hypothetical “final epistle” or lost letters, analyzing the psychological depths of his conversion, or seeking to illuminate the core truths within his canonical writings like Romans or the shorter epistles, my aim has consistently been twofold. First, to engage rigorously with the historical context and theological substance of Paul’s message. Second, and perhaps more importantly, to bridge the gap between his ancient world and our own, making his insights accessible and demonstrating their relevance for our faith, our communities, and our personal journeys of transformation today.

I do not see these texts merely as academic subjects, but as living words carrying the potential for spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of God’s grace. My hope is that as you read, you will be not only informed but also challenged, inspired, and drawn into your own meaningful encounter with the essential Paul. Thank you for joining me in this exploration. May it enrich your understanding and encourage you on your own path of faith.

Sincerely, Arthur A. Tiger

My Spiritual Journey

From my youth, I felt an irresistible attraction to understanding the Holy Scriptures. I remember being puzzled by a question that would later define my entire life: why are there four Gospels in the New Testament, and not just one that would encompass all the events from Christ’s life? This seemingly simple question became the beginning of my long and deep immersion into biblical texts.

In search of an answer, I took an ordinary notebook and began methodically combining narratives from the four Gospels into a single whole. I didn’t realize then that I was engaging in work similar to what theologians had undertaken for many centuries. For me, it was simply a desire to see the complete picture, to form a holistic understanding of Jesus’ life and teachings.

What began as curiosity grew into a genuine passion. I discovered that each Gospel reveals its unique perspective and theological viewpoint. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—each of them conveys their special view of the Savior’s ministry, and it is in their polyphony that the remarkable depth of the Christian message is revealed.

This youthful experience became the foundation of my further journey. Gradually, my notebook with excerpts evolved into extensive research. I began to meticulously study not only the Gospels but all the books of the Bible, striving to understand their historical context, cultural characteristics, and linguistic nuances. Each new discovery intensified my thirst for knowledge and deepened my understanding of God’s Word.

Over time, I realized that this was not merely academic interest. The deep study of Scripture naturally led me to desire understanding these truths at a more profound level. I saw how many people yearn to understand biblical truths but lack the keys to comprehend them. And then I felt an inner call—to continue this path of spiritual knowledge and, perhaps someday, to share these discoveries with others.

Looking back today, I understand that the boy with a notebook, diligently rewriting the Gospel lines, was already walking the path destined for him. Scripture says: “Many are called, but few are chosen.” I dare not call myself chosen, but I cannot explain that inner prompting which led me to years of Bible study as anything other than the action of Providence in my life.

“I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible.

And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Only-begotten, begotten of the Father before all ages; Light of Light, true God of true God, begotten, not made, of one essence with the Father, by Whom all things were made.

Who for us men and for our salvation came down from heaven, and was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and became man.

And was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered, and was buried.

And the third day He rose again, according to the Scriptures.

And ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of the Father.

And He shall come again with glory to judge the living and the dead, Whose kingdom shall have no end.

And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Giver of Life, Who proceeds from the Father, Who with the Father and the Son together is worshipped and glorified, Who spoke by the prophets.

In one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.

I acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins.

I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.”

This Creed is not merely a formal confession for me, but the living foundation of my understanding of Holy Scripture and Christian life as a whole.

And now, when people ask me about my path in studying theology, I tell them this story—a story of how a simple question can open a door to the boundless world of spiritual knowledge, and how a sincere search for truth can become the beginning of a special calling in a person’s life.