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having known me from the first, if they are willing to testify, that after the strictest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.

Verse Takeaways

1

A Strategic Defense

Commentators explain that Paul isn't boasting but making a strategic defense. By highlighting his impeccable record as a Pharisee—the most respected religious sect—he establishes his credibility. He implies his accusers are acting in bad faith, as they know his history but refuse to testify truthfully.

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Acts

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Commentaries

8

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Acts 26:5

18th Century

Theologian

Which knew me. This refers to those who were well acquainted with me.

From the beginning. Anwyen. This means form…

AT Robertson

AT Robertson

On Acts 26:5

Having knowledge of me from the first (προγινωσκοντες με ανωθεν). Literally, "knowing me beforehand" (both προ and ανωθεν), from t…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Acts 26:5

19th Century

Bishop

After the most straitest sect.—Better, most rigid, or most precise. The Greek does not contain anything answering to the…

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Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon

On Acts 26:4–7

19th Century

Preacher

My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews; which knew me from the beginning…

Expositor's Bible Commentary

Expositor's Bible Commentary

On Acts 26:5

It was not in spite of his Jewish heritage but because of it, Paul insisted, that he believed and proclaimed what he did. So he began the body of h…

John Gill

John Gill

On Acts 26:5

17th Century

Pastor

Which knew me from the beginning
From his youth, from his first coming to Jerusalem:

if they woul…

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Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Acts 26:1–11

17th Century

Minister

Christianity teaches us to give a reason of the hope that is in us, and also to give honour to whom honour is due, without flattery or fear of man.…