Final answer:
At the end of his life, Paul assesses himself based on his spiritual journey, the impact of his Christian teachings, and his commitment to spreading his faith. His self-assessment likely focused on his morality, treatment of others, and adherence to his beliefs rather than on material success.
Step-by-step explanation:
At the end of his life, the apostle Paul, known for his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus, assesses himself through the lens of his spiritual journey and his dedication to spreading the message of Christianity. Paul's self-assessment can be seen as a reflection of his faith, his commitment to his beliefs, and the impact of his teachings. The scriptures suggest that Paul views his life with a sense of fulfillment in his role as a messenger of God, with a particular focus on the salvation of souls and spreading the Christian faith.
Paul's assessment is deeply intertwined with his spiritual beliefs and the cultural context of his time, indicating that he felt his life's work was in service to a higher purpose. This is evident from historical texts and art, such as Figure 12.2.11, which compares an early representation of Paul with the portrayal of a philosopher, symbolizing his role as a thinker and teacher in the context of Christianity's early development.
In the face of adversity and at the end of his life, Paul likely judged his worth not on material possessions but on how he lived according to his moral convictions, how he treated others, and his steadfastness in faith, as he prepared for the judgment he believed awaited him and all people.