How did Paul describe his Jewish background in Romans?
Paul writes in Romans that he was a Pharisee of Pharisees and of the tribe of Benjamin. He describes himself as a good religious Pharisaical Jew, indicating his deep Jewish heritage and religious devotion. This self-description highlights his standing within Judaism.
Les explains that Saul of Tarsus, later known as the Apostle Paul, was not a casual onlooker at Stephen's stoning; he was the leader of the rebellion and hated anything concerning Jesus of Nazareth. Why? Because he was a good religious Pharisaical Jew. Paul himself writes in Romans that he was a Pharisee of Pharisees and of the tribe of Benjamin. Les also points to Galatians 1:13, where Paul says he persecuted the church of God beyond measure, showing his former zeal within Judaism.