“Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.”
Circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee — Paul's pedigree is impeccable. Circumcision on the eighth day (not later conversion circumcision) shows lifelong covenant membership. Benjamin (alongside Judah) survived exile, making it a marker of true Israel. 'Hebrew of Hebrews' (Hebraiōs ex Hebraious) emphasizes linguistic and cultural authenticity. Pharisee status was the highest attainment in Jewish piety: he mastered Torah and its traditions. He lists the credentials his opponents would vaunt.
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Carlos RiveraNote1mo agoThe beauty of holiness - Philippians 3
God is faithful in every circumstance. The promise here is not conditional on our strength but on His character. The Hebrew word used here carries a richness that English can't fully capture. God is f...
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Thomas MuellerNote1mo agoThe beauty of holiness - Philippians 3
God is faithful in every circumstance. God is faithful in every circumstance. God is faithful in every circumstance. It implies covenant loyalty, steadfast love that never wavers. God is faithful in e...
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