Definition: Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 26:5. It’s a really important and somewhat surprising statement! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: “Which knew me from the beginning” : This refers to someone who knew about you, long before anyone else did. Think of it like a memory that stretches back a long time. “…if they would testify…” : This is the key part. It means that those people – likely the early Christians – believed in what you were doing and believing. "...that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee." : This is where it gets interesting. “Straitest sect” means the smallest or most strict group within your faith. “Pharisee” was a term used to describe people who were very concerned with rules, rituals, and self-righteousness. Putting it all together: This verse essentially says that you were a very strict and rule-following follower of your religion. You were so focused on following the traditions and rules of your faith that you became quite judgmental and preoccupied with details. You were to the point that you were worried about every single thing, even things that weren’t really important. What's the point? It highlights a potential weakness or flaw in your faith. It shows that you were perhaps overly concerned with appearances or following rules to the point where you became detached from the true spirit of your belief. It suggests a need for balance and humility. In short, it means you were a zealous follower who was consumed by strictness. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you a historical context (like when this verse was written)? Discuss its significance within the early Christian community?