Definition: And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled [them] to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted [them] even unto strange cities.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from Acts 26:11. It's a really important part of understanding Paul’s past actions and how he changed his perspective. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Paul was a passionate and outspoken preacher who traveled around the Roman Empire, delivering sermons and teaching about Jesus Christ. He wasn’t always kind to people, and he frequently challenged them with harsh words and even persecuted them – essentially, drove them away. What happened in this verse? “And I punished them oft in every synagogue…” This means Paul repeatedly confronted and scolded people in churches (meeting places for Christians). He wasn’t just giving gentle reminders; he was actively trying to stop them from saying things that went against the gospel – the message of Jesus. “…and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted [them] even unto strange cities.” This is where it gets a little tricky. “Extremely mad” means he was extremely angry and hostile towards these people. He wasn't just annoyed; he felt a deep, almost violent anger toward them. He actively targeted them, driving them out of the churches and even forcing them to go to faraway places (like strange cities). So, what’s the big takeaway? Paul was deeply troubled by the disrespect and blasphemy he witnessed in churches. He felt like he needed to do something about it – to stop these people from saying things that contradicted the teachings of Jesus. He used harsh treatment as a way to try to “correct” them, but his actions ultimately led him down a path of persecution. It’s important to note: This isn't about everyone he persecuted. It was specifically directed at those who were openly challenging and blaspheming against the gospel. In short, this verse describes Paul's past behavior as being driven by his strong faith and desire to uphold biblical truth, but it also shows how that faith could sometimes lead to harsh actions. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this passage in more detail? Connect it to a particular story or event from Paul’s life? Discuss the context of his time and what was happening at the time?