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Sergius Paulus

also known as: Paulus and Lucius Sergius Paulus

Sergius Paulus became a convert to Christianity under Paul, who visited this island on his first mission to the heathen idolaters of Cyprus.

It is said that he is a “prudent man,” a “man of understanding” (RKJV), the deputy or “proconsul” (RKJV) of Cyprus (Acts 13:6-13).

During Paul's mission to Cyprus he encountered proconsul Sergius Paulus and his family on Cyprus (Acts 13:4–12). Ancient inscriptions have been found confirming a 1st-century proconsul named Paulus (e.g., Soloi inscription ~AD 54) supporting the historical accuracy of Sergius Paulus. Also, the archeology confirms that this place was a Roman administrative center and had a city layout and amenities that aligns with Paphos being a provincial capital where Paul preached and converted the proconsul.

A remarkable memorial of this proconsul was discovered in 1887 at Rome. On a boundary stone of Claudius his name is found, among others, as having been appointed (47 AD) one of the curators of the banks and the channel of the river Tiber.

After serving his 3 years as proconsul at Cyprus, he returned to Rome, where he held the office referred to.

As he is not saluted in Paul’s letter to the Romans, he probably died before it was written.

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Article Version: January 30, 2026