Paul wanted to destroy the church because he thought that this is what God wanted (Acts 23:6; Acts 26:5; Philippians 3:5–6).1 It was an outcome of his devotion to the law.2 As with many other Jews, he expected an earthly Messiah who would bring about sweeping political change. A crucified Messiah was an insult to such hopes and also incomprehensible.3
13 For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it.