Final answer:
Paul refers to fighting with beasts in 1 Corinthians 15:32, which is a metaphorical expression of his hardships and persecutions while spreading the gospel. The texts provided do not contain this reference.
Step-by-step explanation:
Paul's reference to fighting with beasts is metaphorical and can be found in the New Testament, specifically in 1 Corinthians 15:32, which reads, "If I fought wild beasts in Ephesus with no more than human hopes, what have I gained?" This passage uses the imagery of combating wild beasts to represent the struggles and persecutions that Paul faced while spreading the gospel. It's relevant in the context of discussing Christian perseverance and the concept of resurrection that Paul was teaching. However, the texts provided in the question do not contain this exact reference. Instead, they reflect on various events and themes related to the apostle Paul's missionary work and the early Christian community.