In his new book, Saul of Tarsus: The First Terrorist, author and Park Cities resident Jack Minter provides rare insight into the man who was once the greatest intentional murder of Christians — “the first terrorist” — but was ultimately so touched by God that he became one of the greatest Christians of all time and a martyr for his faith in Jesus Christ.

On Monday, Dec. 7, in the wake of the recent ISIS attacks in Paris and the ISIS-inspired terrorist attack in San Bernardino, California, CBS News reported that Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson will soon be unveiling a new terror alert system. In a time when the news is filled with terrorism related tragedies, one unanswerable question remains: “Why?” Although we may never know the “why” behind these particular events, Minter provides us with an understanding of the very first terrorist, Saul, how his life compared and contrasted with that of Jesus, and how that affected his decisions and ultimately, transformed his faith as he became the apostle Paul.

As recent events have proven, terrorists continue to persecute Christians as well as others for their faith and beliefs. Saul took the lead as the first terrorist, but was so completely affected by Jesus, that as Paul, he became one of the most powerful Christians of all time. In a time when radicalized groups and religious elites are distorting our paths to righteousness, Saul of Tarsus is an objective lesson in the dangers of violent intolerance. 

More information on Minter and Saul of Tarsus: The First Terrorist can be found by visiting www.JackMinter.com.