Acts 26:5 – “They have known me for a long time and can testify, if they are willing, that I conformed to the strictest sect of our religion, living as a Pharisee.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul continues his defense before King Agrippa, emphasizing that his past life as a devout Pharisee was well known. He is making it clear that he was not a casual believer or an outsider to Jewish teachings—he was fully committed to the strictest interpretation of Jewish law.

By stating that the Jewish leaders “have known me for a long time,” Paul is showing that his transformation was not a result of ignorance but of deep conviction. If his accusers were honest, they would have to admit that Paul had once been one of the most zealous defenders of Jewish traditions.

This is an important point in Paul’s defense. He wants Agrippa and those listening to understand that his faith in Jesus did not come from rejecting Judaism but from realizing that Jesus is the fulfillment of all that he had believed and studied as a Pharisee.

Historical Context

Paul was raised and trained as a Pharisee, a religious group known for its strict adherence to the Jewish Law. The Pharisees were highly respected among the Jewish people for their devotion, but they were also known for their legalism and opposition to Jesus during His ministry.

Before his conversion, Paul was not only a Pharisee but a persecutor of Christians. He believed that followers of Jesus were a threat to Jewish tradition, so he actively sought to arrest and imprison them (Acts 9:1-2). His commitment to the Pharisee lifestyle was intense—he was willing to go to great lengths to protect what he believed was the true faith.

This background is significant because it shows that Paul was not someone who could be easily swayed. His belief in Jesus came from encountering the truth, not from a lack of religious conviction. By highlighting his past, Paul is making it clear that only something as powerful as meeting Jesus Himself could have changed him.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights how God can transform even the most unlikely people. Paul was deeply entrenched in his religious beliefs, yet God opened his eyes to see the truth of Jesus. This teaches us that no one is beyond God’s reach—He can change hearts, no matter how stubborn or resistant they may seem.

It also reminds us that salvation is not about religious rules but about faith in Christ. Paul had followed the law as closely as anyone, yet he later realized that righteousness comes not from obeying rules but from trusting in Jesus (Philippians 3:7-9).

Additionally, this verse challenges the idea that Christianity is a break from the Old Testament. Paul is arguing that believing in Jesus is not a betrayal of Judaism but the fulfillment of its promises. The same God who gave the Law also sent Jesus to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17).

Literary Analysis

Paul’s statement follows a common pattern in legal defenses—he establishes his credibility before making his case. By reminding everyone of his Pharisee background, he is making it clear that his belief in Jesus was not a rash decision but a thoughtful and informed one.

The phrase “if they are willing” is significant. It suggests that the Jewish leaders knew Paul’s past but were unwilling to acknowledge the truth. This highlights their resistance—not just to Paul, but to the gospel itself.

The use of “strictest sect” emphasizes the seriousness of Paul’s former devotion. He is not downplaying his past beliefs; rather, he is using them to show how radical his transformation was. This makes his testimony even more powerful.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Philippians 3:5-6 – Paul describes his background as a Pharisee and his zeal for the law.
• Acts 9:1-2 – Paul’s former persecution of Christians before his conversion.
• Galatians 1:13-14 – Paul explains how he once tried to destroy the church because of his devotion to Jewish traditions.
• Matthew 5:17 – Jesus says He did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds us that religious activity and rule-following do not save us—only faith in Jesus does. Paul had lived as strictly as possible under Jewish law, yet he realized that true righteousness comes through Christ.

It also challenges us to examine whether we are clinging to traditions or truly following Jesus. Just as Paul had to shift his understanding of faith, we too must be willing to let go of anything that keeps us from fully embracing Christ.

Finally, this verse encourages us to never give up on people who seem resistant to the gospel. If God could transform Paul, He can reach anyone. No one is beyond the reach of His grace.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He pursues people, even those who seem far from Him. Paul was not seeking Jesus—he was fighting against Him. Yet God, in His love, revealed the truth to Paul and gave him a new purpose.

This verse also reflects God’s patience. Instead of condemning Paul for his past, God used him for His glory. This shows that God does not hold our mistakes against us—when we turn to Him, He redeems and restores us.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Paul’s transformation is a reflection of Jesus’ mission. Jesus came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance (Luke 5:31-32). Paul was one of those sinners, and his life shows the power of Christ to change a heart completely.

Additionally, Paul’s message in this verse reinforces the truth that Jesus fulfills the Old Testament. As a Pharisee, Paul had once rejected Jesus, believing that strict adherence to the law was the way to righteousness. But after encountering Christ, he realized that Jesus is the fulfillment of all that the Law and Prophets pointed to (Luke 24:27).

Jesus Himself often challenged the Pharisees, exposing their legalism and pointing them to true faith (Matthew 23:23-24). Paul’s journey mirrors this—he had once been like them, but his encounter with Jesus opened his eyes to the truth.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Paul once believed that strict rule-keeping was the key to pleasing God. Are there ways we sometimes rely on religious actions instead of true faith?
2. What does Paul’s transformation teach us about God’s ability to change hearts?
3. Do you know someone who seems resistant to the gospel? How can you pray for and encourage them?
4. How does this verse challenge us to examine our own traditions and beliefs in light of Christ?
5. How can we use our personal testimonies, like Paul did, to share the truth of Jesus with others?

Paul’s words in Acts 26:5 remind us that no matter our past, God’s grace is greater. He can take our history, our experiences, and even our mistakes and use them for His glory.