Topical Encyclopedia Gamaliel, a prominent figure in the New Testament, is recognized as a distinguished teacher of the Jewish law and a member of the Sanhedrin, the highest Jewish council in Jerusalem. He is most notably known for his association with the Apostle Paul, who was one of his students. Gamaliel's influence and wisdom are highlighted in the Acts of the Apostles, where he is depicted as a voice of reason and moderation.Background and Position Gamaliel was a Pharisee, a sect known for its strict adherence to the Law of Moses and the traditions of the elders. He was the grandson of the renowned Rabbi Hillel, one of the most respected Jewish scholars of the time, and he carried on his grandfather's legacy of teaching and interpretation of the law. Gamaliel's reputation as a teacher was so esteemed that he was given the title "Rabban," a term of high honor, indicating his authority and respect among the Jewish people. Role in the Sanhedrin Gamaliel's role in the Sanhedrin is most clearly illustrated in Acts 5:34-39. When the apostles were brought before the council for preaching about Jesus, Gamaliel advised caution and restraint. He stood up and addressed the Sanhedrin, saying, "Men of Israel, consider carefully what you are about to do to these men... if this plan or action is of men, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God" (Acts 5:35, 38-39). His counsel was heeded, and the apostles were released, demonstrating his influence and the respect he commanded. Paul's Teacher The Apostle Paul, formerly known as Saul of Tarsus, was educated under Gamaliel's tutelage. In Acts 22:3, Paul himself states, "I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city. I studied under Gamaliel and was thoroughly trained in the law of our fathers" . This education under Gamaliel would have provided Paul with a deep understanding of the Jewish law and traditions, which later played a significant role in his ministry and writings. Legacy and Influence Gamaliel's legacy extends beyond his role as a teacher and member of the Sanhedrin. His approach to the law and his moderate stance in dealing with the early Christian movement reflect a wisdom that sought to balance tradition with an openness to the possibility of divine intervention. His influence on Paul, one of the most significant figures in Christianity, underscores the importance of his teachings and the impact they had on the early church. Gamaliel's presence in the New Testament serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between Jewish tradition and the emerging Christian faith. His wisdom and moderation continue to be admired and studied by those seeking to understand the historical and religious context of the early church. Nave's Topical Index Acts 22:3I am truly a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as you all are this day. Nave's Topical Index Library Sacred Times --The Lord's Day. Subjects of Study. Home Education in Israel; Female Education. ... His Unconscious Preparation for his Work The Purification of the virgin and the Presentation in the Temple Homilies on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. Acts IX Preface by the Editor. Index i. Of Subjects On the Interpretation of Scripture [Endnotes] Resources Who was Gamaliel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Theudas in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the story of Saul of Tarsus before he became the apostle Paul? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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