Paul's Journey from Pharisee to Faith

Aug 8, 2024

Lecture on Paul and Pharisees 2

Introduction

  • 20 years after his conversion, Paul still considered himself a Pharisee.
  • Paul believed in the resurrection of the dead and that Jesus was coming back to build his kingdom.
  • Discussed the three basic beliefs: every believer is a priest, every believer should live by God’s word, and it’s the pastor's responsibility to teach the word.
  • Addressed the question: Why did Jesus condemn the Pharisees?

Background on Paul

  • Place of birth: Tarsus
  • Education: Studied under Gamaliel, an authority on the Hebrew scriptures.
  • Known for being knowledgeable about the Old Testament and Messianic prophecies.
  • Played a crucial role in spreading the Gospel in Asia and Europe.

Paul's Pharisee Background

  • Philippians 3: 4-6: Paul describes his background and qualifications as a Pharisee.
  • Member of the Tribe of Benjamin, obeyed Jewish law strictly.

Pharisees in History

  • Term Pharisee has a negative connotation today.
  • John the Baptist and Jesus referred to them negatively (e.g., vipers, hypocrites).
  • Pharisees seen as overtly religious and self-righteous in the Bible.
  • Pharisees emerged during the Second Temple period to defend Judaism against Hellenistic influences.

Beliefs and Practices of Pharisees

  • Believed that every Jew should live like a priest (Exodus 19:5-6).
  • God’s word should be applied to everyday life.
  • Scribes (Pharisees) saw it as their duty to teach and interpret the law (Exodus 18:15-20).

Christianity's Connection to Pharisaic Beliefs

  • Christianity shares some Pharisaic beliefs: every believer is a priest (1 Peter 2:5), and the application of God’s word to everyday life (2 Timothy 3:16).
  • Pastors are to teach the word of God, similar to Pharisees teaching the law.

Jesus and Pharisees

  • Many Pharisees dined with Jesus, indicating some level of respect or curiosity.
  • Jesus often critiqued Pharisees for elevating oral law and traditions above God’s commands.
  • Some Pharisees warned Jesus of danger and even became believers (Acts 15:5-6).

Legalism in Pharisaic Practices

  • Jesus condemned Pharisees for legalism: being more concerned with the letter of the law than the intent.
  • Examples of Pharisaic legalism: Criticizing Jesus' disciples for plucking grain on the Sabbath (Mark 2:23-27).
  • Legalistic practices included placing burdens on people and being judgmental (Matthew 23:2-4, Mark 7:1-7).

Key Takeaways

  • Legalism leads to judgmental attitudes and elevating human traditions over God’s word.
  • Paul shifted from legalistic practices to understanding faith in Jesus as fulfilling the law.
  • Importance of realizing that good works alone are insufficient for salvation; faith in Jesus and his sacrifice is essential.

Conclusion

  • Encouraged self-reflection on legalistic attitudes and reliance on faith in Jesus for salvation.
  • Simple prayer for receiving Jesus and making him Lord of one’s life.