The term 'member of an ancient Jewish sect' can refer to two different sects: the Pharisees and the Essenes. The Pharisees were a Jewish sect that existed during the Second Temple period, from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD. They were known for their strict adherence to the laws of the Torah and their belief in the resurrection of the dead. The Essenes were another Jewish sect that existed during the same time period. They were known for their ascetic lifestyle and their rejection of material possessions. Both sects were influential in the development of Judaism and the formation of the early Christian church.