Paul's Developing Theology

• Acts 26:6 (NLT)

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Note how this expression blossomed out of Paul's being backed into a corner a few chapters earlier and blurting out (to divide his accusers) "I am on trial for belief in the resurrection." Now that expression, which was true (perhaps truer than Paul considered at the first trial before the Sanhedrin, etc.), the truth of which probably hit Paul between the eyes, has developed into a touchstone of biblical theology!

Now it appears (here in Acts 26:5) connected with "God's promise made to our ancestors," seen as fulfillment of covenant promises. It may be that Paul, having some time on his hands during these proceedings, had time to reflect on the theological significance of Jesus' resurrection. This would also account for some of the way he argues for the resurrection in his epistles, setting it over against the flesh and (synonymously) the works of the law as a theological reality more than just an existential experience.

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