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Question 1

David Bercot argues that Paul had to “largely discard most of his rabbinical training” in order to serve Christ; what do you think Paul actually set aside, and what might it look like for an educated or theologically trained Christian today to “come into the kingdom as a little child” without despising learning?

Another way to ask: Bercot says Paul had to set aside much of his rabbinic training to serve Christ. What do you think Paul actually gave up, and how can a well-educated Christian be childlike in faith without looking down on learning?

Direct Answer Based on David Bercot’s teaching, Paul mainly set aside reliance on polished rhetoric and “human wisdom” as the way to advance God’s kingdom, choosing instead a humble, Christ-centered message. For educated Christians today, “coming as a little child” would mean using learning only in a submitted, humble way—so Christ and obedience stay central rather than intellectual status.

Support from Transcript:

Bercot says education isn’t barred: “The door to the kingdom is not barred to those who have an advanced education… but only if they are willing to humble themselves and come into the kingdom as a little child.”
He states plainly: “To serve Christ, Paul had to largely discard most of his rabbinical training.”
Paul’s own approach: “did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom… I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.”
Paul contrasts “persuasive words of human wisdom” with “demonstration of the Spirit and of power.”
Goal: “that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.”

Discussion Follow-ups How can training be used to clarify and serve “Jesus Christ and Him crucified” without becoming a substitute for spiritual power or humility?

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