Who was Paul according to Romans 11:1?
In Romans 11:1, Paul identifies himself as an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, and specifically of the tribe of Benjamin. He uses this personal testimony to show that God has not cast away His people Israel, since Paul himself is proof of God's continuing relationship with them.
Les explains that in Romans 11:1 Paul declares he is an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. Les notes that Paul also emphasizes this same tribal background in Philippians 3, calling himself a Hebrew of the Hebrews, of the tribe of Benjamin. Les wonders why the Holy Spirit inspired Paul to emphasize the tribe of Benjamin, since not many others do, though we know Christ came from the tribe of Judah. Paul's statement supports the chapter's theme that God has not cast away His people, as Paul himself is an Israelite.
I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.