Mission Intended to Last?

The closer the end of the apostle Paul's life and ministry comes into view, the more some of his co-workers and congregations turn away from him. This article speculates on the reasons for this phenomenon, which Paul himself expresses in his presumably last letter, 2 Timothy. The focus is particularly on the personality of the apostle, which seems to intensify with advancing age, even in its challenging features. Based on the results of the study, the article concludes by reflecting on sustainable leadership for those in positions of responsibility in today's churches. The article provides connection opportunities, especially for psychological and sociological studies focusing on guidance by leaders in advanced age as well as for studies in historical research on emotions and studies in the field of organizational development.