Three weeks ago we looked at a fisherman. Two weeks ago we focused on a tax-collector. Last week we looked at a beloved. Now we get to focus on a Pharisee.
[C]ircumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. (Philippians 3:5-6 NIV)
Saul wasn’t just a religious leader of his day. He was one of the best. He had read his Bible. He most probably had large portions of it memorized. He knew his theology and held firmly to his Church Doctrine.
I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city. I studied under Gamaliel and was thoroughly trained in the law of our ancestors. I was just as zealous for God as any of you are today. (Acts 22:3 NIV)
Traditions were preserved from generation through him. He was zealous (full of energy) for the faith. People who didn’t believe or were wavering in their faith had no place in Saul’s life.
The Jewish people all know the way I have lived ever since I was a child, from the beginning of my life in my own country, and also in Jerusalem. They have known me for a long time and can testify, if they are willing, that I conformed to the strictest sect of our religion, living as a Pharisee. (Acts 26:4-6 NIV)
How about you? Does your faith-background match Saul’s? Do you know your Bible? Have you memorized large parts of it? Do you know how to argue for your theology or doctrine? Does your faith look like a Pharisee?
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