Excursus - The Gospel of Resurrection, Part One

Paul's trial before the Sanhedrin concerned charges that he was guilty of crimes against the Law of Moses, the sanctuary and the people of Israel. Thus, at bottom, he was guilty of blasphemy against Israel's God and so deserved to die (22:22). But from his perspective, Paul saw himself as being on trial for "the hope and resurrection of the dead" (23:6). Paul recognized that he was being opposed for his gospel, and he regarded that gospel as the "good news" of resurrection and the hope it holds forth. This message is the first of two which considers that claim and how it is that Paul could regard the gospel of the kingdom in such simple terms.