For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion
By Martin Luther

      This passage does not contain doctrine. Paul adduces his own case for an example. 'I have,' he says, 'at one time defended the traditions of the Pharisees more fiercely than any of your false apostles.' Now, if the righteousness of the Law had been worth anything I would never have forsaken it. So carefully did I live up to the Law that I excelled many of my companions. So zealous was I in defense of the Law that I wasted the church of God.