Why did Paul have to set aside his background in Judaism and legalism?
Paul had to put aside his entire background in Judaism and legalism so that he could be totally the preacher of God's grace. Grace is unmerited favor. His former training could not remain central if the message of grace alone was to define his ministry.
Les explains that Paul had to put all his background in Judaism and legalism aside so that he could be totally the preacher of God's grace. That meant a complete break from relying on his former religious background and law-based standing. Les reminds us that grace is unmerited favor, so Paul's message had to rest entirely on God's unearned favor rather than legalism.