What was Paul s belief about the coming Messiah - JSS3 Christian Religious Studies Paul's persecution of the early church Question

Before his conversion, Saul's belief about the Messiah was shaped by traditional Jewish expectations. He expected a powerful political and military leader and could not accept Jesus as the Messiah because of Jesus' crucifixion. This belief led Saul to zealously defend the Jewish faith and persecute Christians, whom he saw as spreading false teachings. His understanding changed dramatically after his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, leading him to become a follower of Jesus and a key figure in spreading Christianity.