ISB ~ Philippians 3 v4 - 5

Paul boasts impeccable credentials in the face of Judaizing missionaries trying to discredit his theology and mission. He was circumcised in accordance with the Abrahamic covenant (Gen 17:9-14); his tribal affiliation with Benjamin makes him a true Israelite (2 Cor 11:22); his ancestry as a Hebrew (from Eber, Gen 11:16) makes him a pure-blooded Semite (from Shem, Gen 11:10); and his zeal as a Pharisee linked him with one of the strictest renewal movements in Judaism (Acts 22:3; Gal 1:14). Paul is confident these facts will silence the rival claims of any Judaizing competition that makes its way to Philippi. See note on 2 Cor 11:22.