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.