What are the primary differences theologically between Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity regarding the Oral Torah?
This week we continue to delve deeper into each on the categories we discussed at a high level 2 weeks ago.
Before we begin a brief disclaimer - We do not believe everyone has to believe exactly as we do to have a relationship with G-D, and for that relationship to result in that person spending eternity with G-D. We also believe strongly in the promise that Rabbi Sha'ul (Paul) stated that "all Israel will be saved." We do not want to be dogmatic about exactly what that means, as views differ. We also believe scripture clearly teaches that Jews, Christians and Messianic Jews will make up the Kingdom. As for our Sunday brothers and sisters, whether Protestant or Catholic, many truly love G-D and will inherit the Kingdom.
Theologically, Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity began on a common road that split into 3 separate paths. One of the key areas involved in this split was the role of Oral Torah.
Traditional Judaism
For many in traditional Judaism, the Oral Torah and teachings of the Sages and Rabbis has become more important than the Written Torah. Thus, many modern practices do not follow the Torah, but instead, follow the teachings of the Rabbis. An example, stated last week, is that Biblically Jewishness is determined by the father (paternal descent), however the Rabbis determined that one's Jewishness is determined by the mother (maternal descent).
The famous story (see last week's newsletter) concerning the authority of the Rabbis has Rabbi Eliazar debating Halacha (Jewish legal rulings) with a group of Rabbis. The point of the story was (in traditional Judaism) even miracles and voices from Heaven should not influence the Rabbi's since the Holy One, Blessed be He, gave the right to make these decisions to the Rabbis'. From this story, one can see that Rabbinic teaching has evolved to the point where the Rabbis believe they can interpret the Torah, based on their authority, in ways that are binding and that do not necessarily agree with the p'shat (simple reading or meaning) expounding in Torah.
Many modern observances, such as not mixing meat and dairy, are based on Talmudic decisions by the Rabbi's. Not all decisions seen in the Oral Traditions are to be avoided, as we will see in the section on Messianic Judaism.
Traditional Christianity
The traditional Christian belief concerning the role of Oral Torah are best summed up as "Oral Torah has no value to followers of Jesus".
This view is unfortunate as many of the misunderstandings held by Christians about Jews results from this aversion to understanding the Oral Torah and the rabbinical rulings issued within Oral Torah. Thus most believe Judaism is a works based religion where you earn points to get to G-d. That is not a correct understanding. It is also worth nothing that the Oral Torah can teach us much about the life of our Messiah.
Messianic Judaism
Messianic Jewish theology generally believes Oral Torah has value as commentary, history, and to gain understanding of how the Rabbi's interpreted certain issues. Statements such as "an eye for an eye" interpreted by our Christian Brothers means literally inflicting the same injury on the person causing the injury as that of the injured party. Thus if someone gouges out your eye, you should gouge out theirs. In the Oral Torah an "Eye for an eye" is taught to mean monetary compensation. This a valid understanding as can be seen by the context of the surrounding verses in that passage.
Many teachings of The Messiah are echoed in the Oral Torah and additional information about the meanings of those teachings can be gleaned by developing an understanding of the Talmud. These gleanings add depth and further definition to the teachings of The Master. The Oral Torah & Talmud also teach us about the issues and thought processes of our people. Thus the Oral Torah and Talmud deserve to be treated with respect and understanding. They are not to be held to the level of Divine Revelation.
In a nutshell, where the Oral Torah & Talmud add value, utilize them, when they contradict The Scriptures or the Master, ignore them. We must all learn to be able to "eat the meat and spit out the bones" when it comes to reading any extra Biblical information. The same applies to books on Martin Luther, the Anti-Nicene Fathers, etc. we all must learn to discern the truth of G-d and not merely read the words of men.
Next week we will address in detail the other Theological differences.
Shalom - Rabbi Gavri'el
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Rabbi Kaduri Reveals name of the Messiah
Monday, April 30, 2007
Rabbi Reveals Name of the Messiah
Shortly before he died, one of Israel's most prominent rabbis wrote the name of the Messiah on a small note which he requested would remain sealed until now. When the note was opened, it revealed what many have known for centuries: Yehoshua, or Yeshua (Jesus), is the Messiah.
A few months before he died, one of the nation’s most prominent rabbis, Yitzhak Kaduri, supposedly wrote the name of the Messiah on a small note which he requested would remain sealed until now. When the note was unsealed, it revealed what many have known for centuries: Yehoshua, or Yeshua (Jesus), is the Messiah.
With the biblical name of Jesus, the Rabbi and kabbalist described the Messiah using six words and hinting that the initial letters form the name of the Messiah. The secret note said:
Concerning the letter abbreviation of the Messiah’s name, He will lift the people and prove that his word and law are valid.
This is I have signed in the month of mercy,
Yitzhak Kaduri
The Hebrew sentence (translated above in bold) with the hidden name of the Messiah reads: Yarim Ha’Am Veyokhiakh Shedvaro Vetorato Omdim
The initials spell the Hebrew name of Jesus, Yehoshua. Yehoshua and Yeshua are e ectively the same name, derived from the same Hebrew root of the word “salvation” as documented in Zechariah 6:11 and Ezra 3:2. The same priest writes in Ezra, “Yeshua son of Yozadak” while writing in Zechariah “Yehoshua son of Yohozadak.” The priest adds the holy abbreviation of God’s name, ho, in the father’s name Yozadak and in the name Yeshua.
With one of Israel’s most prominent rabbis indicating the name of the Messiah is Yeshua, it is understandable why his last wish was to wait one year after his death before revealing what he wrote.
When the name of Yehoshua appeared in Kaduri’s message, ultra-Orthodox Jews from his Nahalat Yitzhak Yeshiva (seminary) in Jerusalem argued that their master did not leave the exact solution for decoding the Messiah’s name.
The revelation received scant coverage in the Israeli media. Only the Hebrew websites News First Class (Nfc) and Kaduri.net mentioned the Messiah note, insisting it was authentic. The Hebrew daily Ma'ariv ran a story on the note but described it as a forgery.
Jewish readers responded on the websites' forums with mixed feelings: “So this means Rabbi Kaduri was a Christian?” and “The Christians are dancing and celebrating,” were among the comments.
Israel Today spoke to two of Kaduri’s followers in Jerusalem who admitted that the note was authentic, but confusing for his followers as well. “We have no idea how the Rabbi got to this name of the Messiah,” one of them said.
Yet others completely deny any possibility that the note is authentic. Kaduri’s son, Rabbi David Kaduri, said that at the time the note was written (September 2005), his father’s physical condition made it impossible for him to write.
KADURI'S PORTRAYAL OF THE MESSIAH
Click Here to read the remaining portion of the article
Rabbi Reveals Name of the Messiah
Shortly before he died, one of Israel's most prominent rabbis wrote the name of the Messiah on a small note which he requested would remain sealed until now. When the note was opened, it revealed what many have known for centuries: Yehoshua, or Yeshua (Jesus), is the Messiah.
A few months before he died, one of the nation’s most prominent rabbis, Yitzhak Kaduri, supposedly wrote the name of the Messiah on a small note which he requested would remain sealed until now. When the note was unsealed, it revealed what many have known for centuries: Yehoshua, or Yeshua (Jesus), is the Messiah.
With the biblical name of Jesus, the Rabbi and kabbalist described the Messiah using six words and hinting that the initial letters form the name of the Messiah. The secret note said:
Concerning the letter abbreviation of the Messiah’s name, He will lift the people and prove that his word and law are valid.
This is I have signed in the month of mercy,
Yitzhak Kaduri
The Hebrew sentence (translated above in bold) with the hidden name of the Messiah reads: Yarim Ha’Am Veyokhiakh Shedvaro Vetorato Omdim
The initials spell the Hebrew name of Jesus, Yehoshua. Yehoshua and Yeshua are e ectively the same name, derived from the same Hebrew root of the word “salvation” as documented in Zechariah 6:11 and Ezra 3:2. The same priest writes in Ezra, “Yeshua son of Yozadak” while writing in Zechariah “Yehoshua son of Yohozadak.” The priest adds the holy abbreviation of God’s name, ho, in the father’s name Yozadak and in the name Yeshua.
With one of Israel’s most prominent rabbis indicating the name of the Messiah is Yeshua, it is understandable why his last wish was to wait one year after his death before revealing what he wrote.
When the name of Yehoshua appeared in Kaduri’s message, ultra-Orthodox Jews from his Nahalat Yitzhak Yeshiva (seminary) in Jerusalem argued that their master did not leave the exact solution for decoding the Messiah’s name.
The revelation received scant coverage in the Israeli media. Only the Hebrew websites News First Class (Nfc) and Kaduri.net mentioned the Messiah note, insisting it was authentic. The Hebrew daily Ma'ariv ran a story on the note but described it as a forgery.
Jewish readers responded on the websites' forums with mixed feelings: “So this means Rabbi Kaduri was a Christian?” and “The Christians are dancing and celebrating,” were among the comments.
Israel Today spoke to two of Kaduri’s followers in Jerusalem who admitted that the note was authentic, but confusing for his followers as well. “We have no idea how the Rabbi got to this name of the Messiah,” one of them said.
Yet others completely deny any possibility that the note is authentic. Kaduri’s son, Rabbi David Kaduri, said that at the time the note was written (September 2005), his father’s physical condition made it impossible for him to write.
KADURI'S PORTRAYAL OF THE MESSIAH
Click Here to read the remaining portion of the article
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
What are the theological differences between Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity regarding the Torah?
What are the primary differences theologically between Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity regarding the Torah?
This week we will begin to delve deeper into each on the categories we discussed at a high level last week. Before we begin, a brief disclaimer. We do not believe everyone has to believe exactly as we do to have a relationship with G-D, and for that relationship to result in that person spending eternity with G-D. We also believe strongly in the promise that Rabbi Sha'ul (Paul) stated that "all Israel will be saved." We do not want to be dogmatic about exactly what that means, as views differ. We also believe scripture clearly teaches that Jews, Christians and Messianic Jews will make up the Kingdom. As for our Sunday brothers and sisters, whether Protestant or Catholic, many truly love G-D and will inherit the Kingdom.
Theologically, Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity began on a common road that split into 3 separate paths. One of the key areas involved in this split was the role of Torah.
Traditional Judaism
In traditional Jewish beliefs The Torah is core to Jewish life and thought. While that is still true, in many parts of Judaism, the Written Torah has become less important that the Oral Torah and teachings of the Sages and Rabbis. Thus some modern practices do not follow the Torah, but instead the teachings of the Rabbi's. An example, Biblically Jewishness is determined by the Father (Paternal descent), however the Rabbi's determined that ones Jewishness is determined by the mother (Maternal descent).
There is a famous story recorded in the Talmud concerning the authority of the Rabbi's. Rabbi Eliazar (a very famous Rabbi from right after the time of Messiah) was debating a certain point of Halacha (Jewish legal rulings) with a group of Rabbis. No matter how he tried, he was not able to get them to agree to his view. At this point he stated, 'if that carob Tree moves will you agree with my ruling?'. The tree then moved over many feet. The other Rabbis were not impressed, saying 'what does a Carob tree have to do with this ruling'. Rabbi Eliazar then said, 'if this stream flows backward will you agree?'. At that point the stream began to flow backward. The other Rabbis again stated, 'what does water have to do with this decision?'. That this point Rabbi Eliazar proclaimed, 'if a voice from Heaven (Bat Kol) tells you I am right, will you then agree?'. A booming voice from Heaven then proclaimed, 'Rabbi Eliazar is correct'. To this the other Rabbis exclaimed, 'even a voice from Heaven does not matter as the Holy One, Blessed be He, gave the right to make these decisions to the Rabbis'.
From the above story paraphrased from the Talmud, one can see that Rabbinic teaching has evolved to the point where the Rabbi's can interpret the Torah, based on what they believe is their authority, in ways that are binding and that do not agree with the p'shat (simple reading or meaning) expounding in Torah.
It was these type rulings, not the written Torah, that Yeshua disagreed with, often stating the oral traditions were contradicting the written Torah.
Traditional Christianity
In traditional Christian beliefs concerning the role of Torah are best summed up by 2 positions: 1. The Torah has little relevance for today as "Jesus freed us from the Law" and it is painted as a huge burden, 2. Some denominations (Baptist being one) separate the Torah into distinct sections such as: Ceremonial Law, Moral Law and Civil Law and then state we are to follow the Moral law, but not the Civil or Ceremonial.
Let's look at these 2 approaches in a little more depth:
1. Free from the "burden of the Torah" - This view is expounded by most modern Christians, either consciously on sub-consciously. The view is based on Rabbi Sha'uls (Paul) statements about the "Law being nailed to the cross" amongst others. These arguments have serious flaws; some of which are:
* Sha'ul says the Torah is good and Holy, and that all scripture is good for doctrine. The B'rit Chadsha (New or Renewed Testament) was not completed when Paul and others commented about the importance of following the Scriptures.
* Yeshua said not one yod or tittle of the Torah would pass away.
* Yochanan (John) says "sin is a violation of Torah" and that anyone who keeps violating Torah (sinning) does not know G-d.
It is sad, but true, that many who call Messianics "Legalistic" are themselves the ones who are Legalistic and as such are judging and bringing about judgment and condemnation on themselves. In a recent debate with Rabbi Micha'el, Pat Donahue from the Church of Christ had the audacity to say the we (Messianics) were not saved because we kept the Torah. That statement shows that He, and those in the Church of Christ who agree, are themselves judging others and thus bringing the judgement of G-d upon themselves. Pat believes that the Torah is completely done away with and that the "Law of Christ" only is what we are to follow. That supposition is totally inaccurate, even by Paul's words and totally violates both the words of The Messiah and His Emissary Yochanan (John 1 Chapter 3).
This can be further proven by the fact that Paul himself kept Torah after He became a believer (Acts 21 where Paul takes a Nazarite vow). Paul even calls himself a Pharisee.
Pat Donahue even made a statement that proved the point. Rabbi Micha'el asked if Beastiality was prohibited as it is not mentioned in the New Testament. Pat Donahue responded it was fornication. Then proceeded to quote that fornication was any immoral sexual practice defined in the Law. The only problem is the Law he was using to define Beastiality was the Torah, making our point that the Torah is still to be followed.
2. Following the Moral Law only. While this approach has much more validity than the above, it too has flaws. Many Commandments fit into more than one group. The commandment for Shabbat is as much a moral law as it is a ceremonial and civil law. Scripture also does not separate the Torah into sections. Many Ceremonial laws will be practiced in The Messiah's Kingdom, including sacrifice, the Feasts and the Levitical Priesthood. Additionally, many Civil Laws, while they cannot be followed literally today, still provide guidance. An example is the command to stone a witch. We today do not have the authority to stone witches under our current legal system (this included fortune tellers, etc.). We can however see that the behavior is prohibited by Adonai, and as such, we should not have any part in it, associate closely with those involved in witchcraft, or condone their behavior.
Messianic Judaism
Messianic Jewish theology believes The Torah is the core of Jewish life and thought. As such it is central to living a life of obedience to G-D. While keeping Torah does not save us, it clearly shows us how to live a life pleasing to G-D.
The aspect of obedience to Torah is clearly defined by Adonai as having promises of Blessing attached. Thus by living out the Torah, Adonai has promised to protect us and keep us from harm and provide for us. This protective aspect is very important. Many of society's ills would be cured immediately by keeping of Torah.
Imagine: no abortion, no murder, no poverty, no sexually transmitted diseases, no unwed mothers, no prostitution, no stealing, no illegal drugs, etc.
To the charges of Legalism, we are not saved by keeping Torah, and neither was Abraham, Moses, Joshua, David, The prophets, or any other follower of Adonai. We do not tell our Sunday Brothers they must keep Shabbat to be saved.
Pat Donahue made the statement in the debate mentioned above, if you keep Shabbat you must also keep New Moons, Passover, Yom Kippur and Succoth. To this our reply is; this is a problem, please make us worship Adonai more on His Appointed Times (Moedim)!
No, Messianic Jews should never be Legalistic, why, because we are free, free to live the Torah by the power of Adonai living in us.
Next week we will address in detail the other Theological differences.
Shalom - Rabbi Gavri'el
This week we will begin to delve deeper into each on the categories we discussed at a high level last week. Before we begin, a brief disclaimer. We do not believe everyone has to believe exactly as we do to have a relationship with G-D, and for that relationship to result in that person spending eternity with G-D. We also believe strongly in the promise that Rabbi Sha'ul (Paul) stated that "all Israel will be saved." We do not want to be dogmatic about exactly what that means, as views differ. We also believe scripture clearly teaches that Jews, Christians and Messianic Jews will make up the Kingdom. As for our Sunday brothers and sisters, whether Protestant or Catholic, many truly love G-D and will inherit the Kingdom.
Theologically, Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity began on a common road that split into 3 separate paths. One of the key areas involved in this split was the role of Torah.
Traditional Judaism
In traditional Jewish beliefs The Torah is core to Jewish life and thought. While that is still true, in many parts of Judaism, the Written Torah has become less important that the Oral Torah and teachings of the Sages and Rabbis. Thus some modern practices do not follow the Torah, but instead the teachings of the Rabbi's. An example, Biblically Jewishness is determined by the Father (Paternal descent), however the Rabbi's determined that ones Jewishness is determined by the mother (Maternal descent).
There is a famous story recorded in the Talmud concerning the authority of the Rabbi's. Rabbi Eliazar (a very famous Rabbi from right after the time of Messiah) was debating a certain point of Halacha (Jewish legal rulings) with a group of Rabbis. No matter how he tried, he was not able to get them to agree to his view. At this point he stated, 'if that carob Tree moves will you agree with my ruling?'. The tree then moved over many feet. The other Rabbis were not impressed, saying 'what does a Carob tree have to do with this ruling'. Rabbi Eliazar then said, 'if this stream flows backward will you agree?'. At that point the stream began to flow backward. The other Rabbis again stated, 'what does water have to do with this decision?'. That this point Rabbi Eliazar proclaimed, 'if a voice from Heaven (Bat Kol) tells you I am right, will you then agree?'. A booming voice from Heaven then proclaimed, 'Rabbi Eliazar is correct'. To this the other Rabbis exclaimed, 'even a voice from Heaven does not matter as the Holy One, Blessed be He, gave the right to make these decisions to the Rabbis'.
From the above story paraphrased from the Talmud, one can see that Rabbinic teaching has evolved to the point where the Rabbi's can interpret the Torah, based on what they believe is their authority, in ways that are binding and that do not agree with the p'shat (simple reading or meaning) expounding in Torah.
It was these type rulings, not the written Torah, that Yeshua disagreed with, often stating the oral traditions were contradicting the written Torah.
Traditional Christianity
In traditional Christian beliefs concerning the role of Torah are best summed up by 2 positions: 1. The Torah has little relevance for today as "Jesus freed us from the Law" and it is painted as a huge burden, 2. Some denominations (Baptist being one) separate the Torah into distinct sections such as: Ceremonial Law, Moral Law and Civil Law and then state we are to follow the Moral law, but not the Civil or Ceremonial.
Let's look at these 2 approaches in a little more depth:
1. Free from the "burden of the Torah" - This view is expounded by most modern Christians, either consciously on sub-consciously. The view is based on Rabbi Sha'uls (Paul) statements about the "Law being nailed to the cross" amongst others. These arguments have serious flaws; some of which are:
* Sha'ul says the Torah is good and Holy, and that all scripture is good for doctrine. The B'rit Chadsha (New or Renewed Testament) was not completed when Paul and others commented about the importance of following the Scriptures.
* Yeshua said not one yod or tittle of the Torah would pass away.
* Yochanan (John) says "sin is a violation of Torah" and that anyone who keeps violating Torah (sinning) does not know G-d.
It is sad, but true, that many who call Messianics "Legalistic" are themselves the ones who are Legalistic and as such are judging and bringing about judgment and condemnation on themselves. In a recent debate with Rabbi Micha'el, Pat Donahue from the Church of Christ had the audacity to say the we (Messianics) were not saved because we kept the Torah. That statement shows that He, and those in the Church of Christ who agree, are themselves judging others and thus bringing the judgement of G-d upon themselves. Pat believes that the Torah is completely done away with and that the "Law of Christ" only is what we are to follow. That supposition is totally inaccurate, even by Paul's words and totally violates both the words of The Messiah and His Emissary Yochanan (John 1 Chapter 3).
This can be further proven by the fact that Paul himself kept Torah after He became a believer (Acts 21 where Paul takes a Nazarite vow). Paul even calls himself a Pharisee.
Pat Donahue even made a statement that proved the point. Rabbi Micha'el asked if Beastiality was prohibited as it is not mentioned in the New Testament. Pat Donahue responded it was fornication. Then proceeded to quote that fornication was any immoral sexual practice defined in the Law. The only problem is the Law he was using to define Beastiality was the Torah, making our point that the Torah is still to be followed.
2. Following the Moral Law only. While this approach has much more validity than the above, it too has flaws. Many Commandments fit into more than one group. The commandment for Shabbat is as much a moral law as it is a ceremonial and civil law. Scripture also does not separate the Torah into sections. Many Ceremonial laws will be practiced in The Messiah's Kingdom, including sacrifice, the Feasts and the Levitical Priesthood. Additionally, many Civil Laws, while they cannot be followed literally today, still provide guidance. An example is the command to stone a witch. We today do not have the authority to stone witches under our current legal system (this included fortune tellers, etc.). We can however see that the behavior is prohibited by Adonai, and as such, we should not have any part in it, associate closely with those involved in witchcraft, or condone their behavior.
Messianic Judaism
Messianic Jewish theology believes The Torah is the core of Jewish life and thought. As such it is central to living a life of obedience to G-D. While keeping Torah does not save us, it clearly shows us how to live a life pleasing to G-D.
The aspect of obedience to Torah is clearly defined by Adonai as having promises of Blessing attached. Thus by living out the Torah, Adonai has promised to protect us and keep us from harm and provide for us. This protective aspect is very important. Many of society's ills would be cured immediately by keeping of Torah.
Imagine: no abortion, no murder, no poverty, no sexually transmitted diseases, no unwed mothers, no prostitution, no stealing, no illegal drugs, etc.
To the charges of Legalism, we are not saved by keeping Torah, and neither was Abraham, Moses, Joshua, David, The prophets, or any other follower of Adonai. We do not tell our Sunday Brothers they must keep Shabbat to be saved.
Pat Donahue made the statement in the debate mentioned above, if you keep Shabbat you must also keep New Moons, Passover, Yom Kippur and Succoth. To this our reply is; this is a problem, please make us worship Adonai more on His Appointed Times (Moedim)!
No, Messianic Jews should never be Legalistic, why, because we are free, free to live the Torah by the power of Adonai living in us.
Next week we will address in detail the other Theological differences.
Shalom - Rabbi Gavri'el
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
What are the primary differences theologically between Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity?
This question will probably run over several weeks depending on the level we choose to go in exploring the Theological differences. First let's explore the high-level differences. Then in subsequent articles we can dive down to get more detail.
Before we begin, a brief disclaimer. We do not believe everyone has to believe exactly as we do to have a relationship with G-d, and for that relationship to result in that person spending eternity with G-d. We also believe strongly in the promise that Rabbi Sha'ul (Paul) stated that "all Israel will be saved". We do not want to be dogmatic about exactly what that means as differing views, which all have creditability, can be held. We also want to say that both Christians and Jews will make up the Kingdom. As for our Sunday brothers and sisters, whether Protestant or Catholic, many truly love G-d and will inherit the Kingdom.
Theologically, Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity can be seen as (in our opinion) having started out as a common road, that around the 70 - 200 ce (AD) time frame split into 3 separate paths.
The primary differences can best be summed up around:
* The role of Torah
* The role of Oral Torah
* The Messiahship of Yeshua Ha'Nazaret
* The Diety of Yeshua
* The role of works
* The role of Faith
* Repentance
Let's examine each of these at a high level for the 3 groups.
Traditional Judaism
Traditional Jewish beliefs would answer the list above thusly:
* The role of Torah - The core of Jewish life and thought. In many parts of Judaism, the Written Torah has become less important that the Oral Torah and teachings of the Sages and Rabbi's
* The role of Oral Torah - along with the teachings of the Sages and Rabbi's Oral Torah has become the dominate force behind Halacha (How you are to walk, Jewish Law). These teachings are summed up in the Talmud, Mishneh Torah, Shulhan Arukh, and other Rabbinic texts
* The Messiahship of Yeshua Ha'Nazaret - denied by traditional Jews, most now see Yeshua as a good Rabbi who taught Torah.
* The Diety of Yeshua - denied by traditional Jews, previously seen as a form of idolitry.
* The role of works - Important as concrete evidence of following the commandments of G-d.
* The role of Faith - Faith in G-d is the basis for all Torah belief
* Repentance - Key to forgiveness of sins, must be both to G-d and the person wronged. Thus if you steal, to be forgiven you have to make restitution.
Traditional Christianity
Traditional Christian beliefs would answer the list above thusly:
* The role of Torah - Little relevance for today as "Jesus freed us from the Law". The Torah is seen as a huge burden.
* The role of Oral Torah - no relevance at all. However, it should be noted that the Church has substituted it's own oral law in the form of the Catacism, Works of the Early Church Fathers, and Denominational rulings.
* The Messiahship of Yeshua Ha'Nazaret - central doctrine of the faith.
* The Diety of Yeshua - central doctrine of the faith. Confusion exists within the Church as to exactly what this means, and the relationship between the Father, Son and Holy Spirit (more on the confusion in the future).
* The role of works - varies depending on denomination, with Catholics putting great weight on works, while many Protestant denominations place little importance on them, with Faith and "acting in the Spirit" seen as superior.
* The role of Faith - Faith is taught as all that is required for a right relationship with G-d by many denominations, while others see a balance between Faith and action.
* Repentance - Key to forgiveness of sins for many denomination, seen as of little importance for others. Repentence is seen as almost entirely between man and G-d.
Messianic Judaism
Messianic Jewish theology would answer the list above thusly:
* The role of Torah - The core of Jewish life and thought. Central to living a life of obedience to G-d. Does not save us, but shows us how to live a life pleasing to G-d.
* The role of Oral Torah - along with the teachings of the Sages and Rabbi's are viewed as valuable commentary. The writings of the Tannim (Teachers prior to 200 CE) are regarded more highly than later rulings. Never to be followed if they contradict scripture or the word of Yeshua The Messiah.
* The Messiahship of Yeshua Ha'Nazaret - Essential to the Faith. If Yeshua is not the Messiah, we are dead in our sins and trespasses.
* The Diety of Yeshua - Very important to our faith, we do not see Yeshua as 1 of 3 "g-ds" running the universe. Instead we view Him as part of G-d, 100% the same essence of G-d. Thus there is one G-d, not 3 (this will be discussed in detail in the future).
* The role of works - Important as concrete evidence of "loving" G-d and "loving our neighbors as ourselves".
* The role of Faith - Faith in G-d is the basis for all our belief
* Repentance - Key to forgiveness of sins, must be both to G-d and the person wronged. Thus if you steal, to be forgiven you have to make restitution.
As you can see, Messianic Judaism has elements of both traditional Judaism and Christianity.
Next week we will address in detail these Theological differences.
Shalom - Rabbi Gavri'el
Before we begin, a brief disclaimer. We do not believe everyone has to believe exactly as we do to have a relationship with G-d, and for that relationship to result in that person spending eternity with G-d. We also believe strongly in the promise that Rabbi Sha'ul (Paul) stated that "all Israel will be saved". We do not want to be dogmatic about exactly what that means as differing views, which all have creditability, can be held. We also want to say that both Christians and Jews will make up the Kingdom. As for our Sunday brothers and sisters, whether Protestant or Catholic, many truly love G-d and will inherit the Kingdom.
Theologically, Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity can be seen as (in our opinion) having started out as a common road, that around the 70 - 200 ce (AD) time frame split into 3 separate paths.
The primary differences can best be summed up around:
* The role of Torah
* The role of Oral Torah
* The Messiahship of Yeshua Ha'Nazaret
* The Diety of Yeshua
* The role of works
* The role of Faith
* Repentance
Let's examine each of these at a high level for the 3 groups.
Traditional Judaism
Traditional Jewish beliefs would answer the list above thusly:
* The role of Torah - The core of Jewish life and thought. In many parts of Judaism, the Written Torah has become less important that the Oral Torah and teachings of the Sages and Rabbi's
* The role of Oral Torah - along with the teachings of the Sages and Rabbi's Oral Torah has become the dominate force behind Halacha (How you are to walk, Jewish Law). These teachings are summed up in the Talmud, Mishneh Torah, Shulhan Arukh, and other Rabbinic texts
* The Messiahship of Yeshua Ha'Nazaret - denied by traditional Jews, most now see Yeshua as a good Rabbi who taught Torah.
* The Diety of Yeshua - denied by traditional Jews, previously seen as a form of idolitry.
* The role of works - Important as concrete evidence of following the commandments of G-d.
* The role of Faith - Faith in G-d is the basis for all Torah belief
* Repentance - Key to forgiveness of sins, must be both to G-d and the person wronged. Thus if you steal, to be forgiven you have to make restitution.
Traditional Christianity
Traditional Christian beliefs would answer the list above thusly:
* The role of Torah - Little relevance for today as "Jesus freed us from the Law". The Torah is seen as a huge burden.
* The role of Oral Torah - no relevance at all. However, it should be noted that the Church has substituted it's own oral law in the form of the Catacism, Works of the Early Church Fathers, and Denominational rulings.
* The Messiahship of Yeshua Ha'Nazaret - central doctrine of the faith.
* The Diety of Yeshua - central doctrine of the faith. Confusion exists within the Church as to exactly what this means, and the relationship between the Father, Son and Holy Spirit (more on the confusion in the future).
* The role of works - varies depending on denomination, with Catholics putting great weight on works, while many Protestant denominations place little importance on them, with Faith and "acting in the Spirit" seen as superior.
* The role of Faith - Faith is taught as all that is required for a right relationship with G-d by many denominations, while others see a balance between Faith and action.
* Repentance - Key to forgiveness of sins for many denomination, seen as of little importance for others. Repentence is seen as almost entirely between man and G-d.
Messianic Judaism
Messianic Jewish theology would answer the list above thusly:
* The role of Torah - The core of Jewish life and thought. Central to living a life of obedience to G-d. Does not save us, but shows us how to live a life pleasing to G-d.
* The role of Oral Torah - along with the teachings of the Sages and Rabbi's are viewed as valuable commentary. The writings of the Tannim (Teachers prior to 200 CE) are regarded more highly than later rulings. Never to be followed if they contradict scripture or the word of Yeshua The Messiah.
* The Messiahship of Yeshua Ha'Nazaret - Essential to the Faith. If Yeshua is not the Messiah, we are dead in our sins and trespasses.
* The Diety of Yeshua - Very important to our faith, we do not see Yeshua as 1 of 3 "g-ds" running the universe. Instead we view Him as part of G-d, 100% the same essence of G-d. Thus there is one G-d, not 3 (this will be discussed in detail in the future).
* The role of works - Important as concrete evidence of "loving" G-d and "loving our neighbors as ourselves".
* The role of Faith - Faith in G-d is the basis for all our belief
* Repentance - Key to forgiveness of sins, must be both to G-d and the person wronged. Thus if you steal, to be forgiven you have to make restitution.
As you can see, Messianic Judaism has elements of both traditional Judaism and Christianity.
Next week we will address in detail these Theological differences.
Shalom - Rabbi Gavri'el
Rosh Chodesh
Rosh Chodesh
By D. Thomas Lancaster, FFOZ
(Excerpts Condensed from Torah Club Volume Five, used by permission from First Fruits of Zion, www.ffoz.org)
The first day of the biblical month is called Rosh Chodesh (??? ???), which literally means 'a new head' and is understood to mean the 'first of the New Month.' A Rosh Chodesh occurs when the first crescent of the New Moon appears in the sky. Note that the biblical Rosh Chodesh is not the same as the English "New Moon." Rather the Rosh Chodesh moon is ordinarily the first visible crescent of the new lunar cycle.
The middle of the biblical month is a full moon. The end of the biblical month occurs when the moon disappears completely from the sky.
Most of the Ancient Near East determined their calendars according to the lunar phases. In that regard, Israel was not unique.
In the Torah, the commandment of identifying and declaring the new moon was addressed only to Moses and Aaron (Exodus 12). Were it addressed to the entire community, the determination of the calendar would be arbitrary and subject to all sorts of discrepancies. For that reason, this commandment has always been regarded as a function of the Sanhedrin, i.e. the leadership of Israel.1
However, in the Fourth Century, the Roman government officially forbade the Sanhedrin from convening and determining the New Moon. The Jewish community throughout the diaspora was left to their own devices for determining the calendar. The result was uncertainty over festival days, discord between communities and general chaos. A cloudy day could change the day one celebrates Passover! As a result, the method of determining the moon by observation alone fell into disuse. Astronomical projections were made to fix the calendar in advance. Rabbi Hillel II created a fixed calendar that all Israel could use.
The advent of the Rosh Chodesh is customarily announced in the synagogue on the Shabbat before it occurs. This tradition arose in ancient times as a means of keeping the community informed about the Biblical calendar. A special congregational prayer, petitioning G-D for a good month, accompanies the announcement of the day on which the New Moon will occur.
May it be Your will, L-RD, our G-d and the G-d of our fathers that You make new this month upon us for goodness and for blessing. May You give us a long life-a life of peace; a life of goodness; a life of blessing; a life of sustenance; a life of physical health; a life in which there is fear of heaven and fear of sin; a life in which there is no shame nor humiliation; a life of wealth and honor; a life in which we will have love of Torah, fear of G-d; a life in which the L-RD fulfills our heartfelt requests for the good. Amen, Selah. (Shabbat Petition of the coming New Month)
Although the New Moon is an appointed time, it is not a Sabbath, nor is there a commandment to assemble on it for a 'holy convocation.' We know from the book of 1 Samuel that King Saul used to hold a two-day banquet on the New Moon.2 We know that the prophets taught on the Sabbaths and New Moons.3 Shofars were sounded on the New Moon.4 In the Messianic kingdom to come, "it shall be from new moon to new moon and from Sabbath to Sabbath, all mankind will come to bow down before Me," says the L-RD. (Isaiah 66:23)
According to some traditions, the New Moon is a holiday for women. The Jerusalem Talmud reports that women are given the extra holiday on which they are to be free from their usual duties as a reward for not contributing their jewelry to the golden calf project.5 Fathers and husbands may be wise to take on an extra load of duties on the New Moon to give their daughters and wives a break.
For Believers, the celebration of the new moons carries great significance. Not only are they calendar events, but also the cycle of the moons speaks to the new birth and recreation which is ours in Messiah. Just as the moon is born again, we are renewed in Messiah. It is the festival of the born again.
Rosh Chodesh Special Readings:
Haftarah: Sh'mu'el Alef (1 Samuel 20:18-42)
B'rit Hadashah: Colossians 2:16-17; Revelation 21:1 - 22:5
By D. Thomas Lancaster, FFOZ
(Excerpts Condensed from Torah Club Volume Five, used by permission from First Fruits of Zion, www.ffoz.org)
The first day of the biblical month is called Rosh Chodesh (??? ???), which literally means 'a new head' and is understood to mean the 'first of the New Month.' A Rosh Chodesh occurs when the first crescent of the New Moon appears in the sky. Note that the biblical Rosh Chodesh is not the same as the English "New Moon." Rather the Rosh Chodesh moon is ordinarily the first visible crescent of the new lunar cycle.
The middle of the biblical month is a full moon. The end of the biblical month occurs when the moon disappears completely from the sky.
Most of the Ancient Near East determined their calendars according to the lunar phases. In that regard, Israel was not unique.
In the Torah, the commandment of identifying and declaring the new moon was addressed only to Moses and Aaron (Exodus 12). Were it addressed to the entire community, the determination of the calendar would be arbitrary and subject to all sorts of discrepancies. For that reason, this commandment has always been regarded as a function of the Sanhedrin, i.e. the leadership of Israel.1
However, in the Fourth Century, the Roman government officially forbade the Sanhedrin from convening and determining the New Moon. The Jewish community throughout the diaspora was left to their own devices for determining the calendar. The result was uncertainty over festival days, discord between communities and general chaos. A cloudy day could change the day one celebrates Passover! As a result, the method of determining the moon by observation alone fell into disuse. Astronomical projections were made to fix the calendar in advance. Rabbi Hillel II created a fixed calendar that all Israel could use.
The advent of the Rosh Chodesh is customarily announced in the synagogue on the Shabbat before it occurs. This tradition arose in ancient times as a means of keeping the community informed about the Biblical calendar. A special congregational prayer, petitioning G-D for a good month, accompanies the announcement of the day on which the New Moon will occur.
May it be Your will, L-RD, our G-d and the G-d of our fathers that You make new this month upon us for goodness and for blessing. May You give us a long life-a life of peace; a life of goodness; a life of blessing; a life of sustenance; a life of physical health; a life in which there is fear of heaven and fear of sin; a life in which there is no shame nor humiliation; a life of wealth and honor; a life in which we will have love of Torah, fear of G-d; a life in which the L-RD fulfills our heartfelt requests for the good. Amen, Selah. (Shabbat Petition of the coming New Month)
Although the New Moon is an appointed time, it is not a Sabbath, nor is there a commandment to assemble on it for a 'holy convocation.' We know from the book of 1 Samuel that King Saul used to hold a two-day banquet on the New Moon.2 We know that the prophets taught on the Sabbaths and New Moons.3 Shofars were sounded on the New Moon.4 In the Messianic kingdom to come, "it shall be from new moon to new moon and from Sabbath to Sabbath, all mankind will come to bow down before Me," says the L-RD. (Isaiah 66:23)
According to some traditions, the New Moon is a holiday for women. The Jerusalem Talmud reports that women are given the extra holiday on which they are to be free from their usual duties as a reward for not contributing their jewelry to the golden calf project.5 Fathers and husbands may be wise to take on an extra load of duties on the New Moon to give their daughters and wives a break.
For Believers, the celebration of the new moons carries great significance. Not only are they calendar events, but also the cycle of the moons speaks to the new birth and recreation which is ours in Messiah. Just as the moon is born again, we are renewed in Messiah. It is the festival of the born again.
Rosh Chodesh Special Readings:
Haftarah: Sh'mu'el Alef (1 Samuel 20:18-42)
B'rit Hadashah: Colossians 2:16-17; Revelation 21:1 - 22:5
Saturday, May 05, 2007
Eschatology Debate After-Report
Just arrived home. The debate went very well over all; I was a little weak in the first half (I don't play defense well), but I think I rallied back strong on my own affirmative argument. Probably my biggest blunder was accidentally (and repeatedly) calling Don "Pat." He took it in good grace and humor and gave me a friendly ribbing for it.
Having met Don Preston face-to-face, I can say with all honesty that he's as much a gentleman in person as he is over the phone and email. Don, if you read this, thank you very much for a wonderful and challenging debate, for your good grace and humor, and please thank your sister for Steve, my parents, and me for the wonderful cinnamon buns.
We've got some editing work left to do, including me needing to organize my slides for easy-ripping to video, so it'll probably be a few weeks before its available. When it is, I should have them available on the Hebrewroot.com website--along with some new articles that Don's arguments during the debate.
Service is about to begin here at Congregation Beth HaMashiach, so I've got to run.
Shabbat Shalom!
Having met Don Preston face-to-face, I can say with all honesty that he's as much a gentleman in person as he is over the phone and email. Don, if you read this, thank you very much for a wonderful and challenging debate, for your good grace and humor, and please thank your sister for Steve, my parents, and me for the wonderful cinnamon buns.
We've got some editing work left to do, including me needing to organize my slides for easy-ripping to video, so it'll probably be a few weeks before its available. When it is, I should have them available on the Hebrewroot.com website--along with some new articles that Don's arguments during the debate.
Service is about to begin here at Congregation Beth HaMashiach, so I've got to run.
Shabbat Shalom!
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Ask the Rabbi - How did Messianic Judaism and Christianity split? Pt 2
Continuing from last week, we will discuss how Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity have drifted so far apart. How did the split occur?
This week we will address the split with Christianity. As we discussed last week, by 70-135 CE (AD) Messianic Jews had by and large been excluded from the traditional Synagogue. What is more surprising is, by this same time frame, they were beginning to be squeezed out of the Church.
Up until 50-60 CE, belief in Yeshua as Messiah had been predominately held by Jews. With the success of Rabbi Sha'ul (Paul) and others this began to change rapidly. The Gentile world it seems was ripe to harvest. The former gods of Greece and Rome were seen as powerless and ineffective. Into this vacuum came the news of the true G-d, offering forgiveness and eternal life. Many Gentiles gladly received the good news.
This influx of Gentiles originally were being taught by Jewish Believers within the context of Judaism. That did not last as the events resulted in many Jews being expelled from major cities, one of which was Rome. This happened at about the Time Sha'ul was writing Romans. Without the Jewish Messianic Leaders instructing them, new Gentile converts were left on their own to learn and teach. Without the depth of understanding in Jewish Customs and Theology, minor changes in direction began to be seen. One good example is seen in Sha'uls writings on not judging another for Holidays or what they eat. Often seen as against Kosher and the Feasts of G-d, they are exactly the opposite. As Jews returned to Rome, the emerging Church began to ridicule their keeping Kosher and the Feasts of Adonai.
Gentilization of the Body & the rise of Gentile Bishops
Another major issue was growing, as the Church was becoming more Gentile, certain Gentile leaders sought ways to lessen the Authority of Jerusalem (Jerusalem Council) on their Churches. Ignatius is the first known Christian writer to put great stress on loyalty to a single bishop in each city (Source Wikipedia). Ignatius is also claimed to be the first known Christian writer to argue in favor of Christianity's replacement of the Sabbath with the Lord's Day:
" Be not seduced by strange doctrines nor by antiquated fables, which are profitless. For if even unto this day we live after the manner of Judaism, we avow that we have not received grace.... If then those who had walked in ancient practices attained unto newness of hope, no longer observing Sabbaths but fashioning their lives after the Lord's day, on which our life also arose through Him and through His death which some men deny ... how shall we be able to live apart from Him? ... It is monstrous to talk of Jesus Christ and to practise Judaism. For Christianity did not believe in Judaism, but Judaism in Christianity - Ignatius to the Magnesians 8:1, 9:1-2, 10:3, Lightfoot translation."
He is also responsible for the first known use of the Greek word katholikos, meaning "universal," to describe the church, writing:
"Wherever the bishop appears, there let the people be; as wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church. It is not lawful to baptize or give communion without the consent of the bishop. On the other hand, whatever has his approval is pleasing to God. Thus, whatever is done will be safe and valid. - Letter to the Smyrnaeans 8, J.R. Willis translation."
Ignatius of Antioch is credited by some for being one of the first Church Fathers to extol the value of the Eucharist and its Real Presence (becoming not bread and wine but the actual body & blood of Messiah.)
Note several items: 1. a Bishop is required to administer the L-rd's Supper, showing Ignatius's view on the primacy of Priests and Bishops 2. his insistence on not following the Jerusalem council 3. his move away from being part of Judaism, 4. his proposing the Bishop has the authority to change the Sabbath to Sunday.
Ignatius, in a real way, was the beginning of a conscious effort by the Gentile Church to remove all Jewishness from belief in Messiah.
The fall of Jerusalem resulted in the expulsion of Jews and the loss of the Jerusalem Council as the predominate force on Messianic Practices. Into this vacuum, men like Ignatius were able to exert Gentile control over the believers. This trend continued with subsequent years bringing more Gentiles in the body, with a corresponding lessening of Jewish practice.
According to Eusebius' History of the Church 4.5.3-4: the first 15 Bishops of Jerusalem were "of the circumcision" (Jews). From that time forward, Jerusalem has never had a Jewish Bishop.
135 CE revolt
The 135 CE (AD) revolt resulted in Jews being treated as enemies of the State. Gentile believers, who now made up the large majority, sought ways to distance themselves from the Jews to reduce persecution. During this time Sunday worship became the normal practice. By the end of the 2nd century Easter was replacing Passover as the celebration of the death and resurrection of Messiah.
Heresy
The 2nd century also brought the beginnings of paganistic beliefs (Mother-son religion, Mithras worship, etc.) being incorporated into the Church. Additionally, the "New" Testament was becoming the primary focus, while the "Old" Testament was being reinterpreted only to stories that showed Judaism in a negative light. Mass Heresies such as Marcionism arose. Marcion taught that reformation was needed. "This reformation was to deliver Christendom from false Jewish doctrines by restoring the Pauline conception of the gospel, - Paul being, according to Marcion, the only apostle who had rightly understood the new message of salvation as delivered by Christ. In Marcion's own view, therefore, the founding of his church - to which he was first driven by opposition - amounts to a reformation of Christendom through a return to the gospel of Christ and to Paul; nothing was to be accepted beyond that." (Source Wikipedia)
Polycarp (a Talmidim or disciple of John) called Marcion "the first born of Satan." Marcion proposed to remove the entire Tanakh (Old Testament) from the Church and follow only Paul.
Many Churches today are unknowingly actually following the teachings of Marcion. Many other similar heresies arose including the Gnostics which are so hyped today with the Gospel of Judas and the Gospel of Mary.
Church Councils
The Councils of Laodicea, Nicaea, Laodicea 2, etc. progressively distanced believers from their Jewish Messiah. Many Biblical practices were outlawed by the Church including: keeping Shabbat, circumcision, keeping of the Feasts G-d commanded, etc. "The Council of Laodicea of around 365 decreed: Christians must not judaize by resting on the Sabbath, but must work on that day, rather honouring the Lord's Day; and, if they can, resting then as Christians. But if any shall be found to be judaizers, let them be anathema (accursed) from Christ." (Source Wikipedia).
The council of Nicaea in 325 CE forcibly separated the resurrection of the Messiah from Passover. The ruling was so crafted that Passover and Easter would never fall together (It is an interesting note that the planners were not as smart as they thought, for First Fruits not Passover is the date of the Resurrection, and that has continued to occur, several times in out generation).
Expulsion & Inquisition
Once the Biblical Jewish practices were denounced, the next step was enforcement. This enforcement took many forms, from excommunication to extermination. In Spain Columbus sailed on the very day Jews were expelled. Believers, if they practiced any Biblical Jewish practices were forced to confess, many times under extreme torture, and often murdered. "The historian Hernando del Pulgar, contemporary of Ferdinand and Isabella, estimated that the Inquisition had burned at the stake 2,000 people" (In just the beginning decade).
The ultimate tragedy occurred when Adolph Hitler and the Nazi's killed 6 million Jews. This was not religiously motivated as many were Believers in Messiah. All that was required is for 1 of your grandparents to be a Jew and you were to be exterminated.
Legalism & Today
The final chapter is not yet been written. What is obvious is that Jew's are still persecuted and hated today. Even within the Church, Messianic's and Messianic Jews are often accused of being legalistic. This happened recently in Rabbi Micha'els debate with Pat Donahue from the Church of Christ. Pat stated that Messianic's are not saved because we keep the Torah. He is not the only one the feel that way, while Evangelicals generally are somewhat supportive, the moment our views cross theirs, out comes the Judaizer label.
Imagine the scene today, a Jewish couple has heard about the Messiah, and they have trusted in Him. They seek a place to worship. On their second visit they are invited to a cook-out. Arriving the first thing they are handed is a nice big Pork chop or rib. When they politely decline, the person asks why? They explain that they are Jews and don't eat pork. The person who offered the nice ribs, confused, goes and gets the Pastor or Elder. The Elder or Pastor says 'why you can eat that now, your not under the law'. This pattern repeats itself, first for Passover, then the Holy Days. When Christmas and Easter roll around this couple is supposed to be putting up a tree and hunting Easter Eggs. If they don't, they are probably shunned, or a least given a strong talking to by the Pastor who explains they are to leave that "Jewish stuff" behind, that Christ freed them from it.
If the couple above agrees with the Pastor; he has unknowingly done what 2000 years of persecution and even Hitler could not do. He has caused the Jewish people to cease to exist!.
Next week we will address how Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity are different Theologically and how they each interpret scripture.
Shalom - Rabbi Gavri'el
This week we will address the split with Christianity. As we discussed last week, by 70-135 CE (AD) Messianic Jews had by and large been excluded from the traditional Synagogue. What is more surprising is, by this same time frame, they were beginning to be squeezed out of the Church.
Up until 50-60 CE, belief in Yeshua as Messiah had been predominately held by Jews. With the success of Rabbi Sha'ul (Paul) and others this began to change rapidly. The Gentile world it seems was ripe to harvest. The former gods of Greece and Rome were seen as powerless and ineffective. Into this vacuum came the news of the true G-d, offering forgiveness and eternal life. Many Gentiles gladly received the good news.
This influx of Gentiles originally were being taught by Jewish Believers within the context of Judaism. That did not last as the events resulted in many Jews being expelled from major cities, one of which was Rome. This happened at about the Time Sha'ul was writing Romans. Without the Jewish Messianic Leaders instructing them, new Gentile converts were left on their own to learn and teach. Without the depth of understanding in Jewish Customs and Theology, minor changes in direction began to be seen. One good example is seen in Sha'uls writings on not judging another for Holidays or what they eat. Often seen as against Kosher and the Feasts of G-d, they are exactly the opposite. As Jews returned to Rome, the emerging Church began to ridicule their keeping Kosher and the Feasts of Adonai.
Gentilization of the Body & the rise of Gentile Bishops
Another major issue was growing, as the Church was becoming more Gentile, certain Gentile leaders sought ways to lessen the Authority of Jerusalem (Jerusalem Council) on their Churches. Ignatius is the first known Christian writer to put great stress on loyalty to a single bishop in each city (Source Wikipedia). Ignatius is also claimed to be the first known Christian writer to argue in favor of Christianity's replacement of the Sabbath with the Lord's Day:
" Be not seduced by strange doctrines nor by antiquated fables, which are profitless. For if even unto this day we live after the manner of Judaism, we avow that we have not received grace.... If then those who had walked in ancient practices attained unto newness of hope, no longer observing Sabbaths but fashioning their lives after the Lord's day, on which our life also arose through Him and through His death which some men deny ... how shall we be able to live apart from Him? ... It is monstrous to talk of Jesus Christ and to practise Judaism. For Christianity did not believe in Judaism, but Judaism in Christianity - Ignatius to the Magnesians 8:1, 9:1-2, 10:3, Lightfoot translation."
He is also responsible for the first known use of the Greek word katholikos, meaning "universal," to describe the church, writing:
"Wherever the bishop appears, there let the people be; as wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church. It is not lawful to baptize or give communion without the consent of the bishop. On the other hand, whatever has his approval is pleasing to God. Thus, whatever is done will be safe and valid. - Letter to the Smyrnaeans 8, J.R. Willis translation."
Ignatius of Antioch is credited by some for being one of the first Church Fathers to extol the value of the Eucharist and its Real Presence (becoming not bread and wine but the actual body & blood of Messiah.)
Note several items: 1. a Bishop is required to administer the L-rd's Supper, showing Ignatius's view on the primacy of Priests and Bishops 2. his insistence on not following the Jerusalem council 3. his move away from being part of Judaism, 4. his proposing the Bishop has the authority to change the Sabbath to Sunday.
Ignatius, in a real way, was the beginning of a conscious effort by the Gentile Church to remove all Jewishness from belief in Messiah.
The fall of Jerusalem resulted in the expulsion of Jews and the loss of the Jerusalem Council as the predominate force on Messianic Practices. Into this vacuum, men like Ignatius were able to exert Gentile control over the believers. This trend continued with subsequent years bringing more Gentiles in the body, with a corresponding lessening of Jewish practice.
According to Eusebius' History of the Church 4.5.3-4: the first 15 Bishops of Jerusalem were "of the circumcision" (Jews). From that time forward, Jerusalem has never had a Jewish Bishop.
135 CE revolt
The 135 CE (AD) revolt resulted in Jews being treated as enemies of the State. Gentile believers, who now made up the large majority, sought ways to distance themselves from the Jews to reduce persecution. During this time Sunday worship became the normal practice. By the end of the 2nd century Easter was replacing Passover as the celebration of the death and resurrection of Messiah.
Heresy
The 2nd century also brought the beginnings of paganistic beliefs (Mother-son religion, Mithras worship, etc.) being incorporated into the Church. Additionally, the "New" Testament was becoming the primary focus, while the "Old" Testament was being reinterpreted only to stories that showed Judaism in a negative light. Mass Heresies such as Marcionism arose. Marcion taught that reformation was needed. "This reformation was to deliver Christendom from false Jewish doctrines by restoring the Pauline conception of the gospel, - Paul being, according to Marcion, the only apostle who had rightly understood the new message of salvation as delivered by Christ. In Marcion's own view, therefore, the founding of his church - to which he was first driven by opposition - amounts to a reformation of Christendom through a return to the gospel of Christ and to Paul; nothing was to be accepted beyond that." (Source Wikipedia)
Polycarp (a Talmidim or disciple of John) called Marcion "the first born of Satan." Marcion proposed to remove the entire Tanakh (Old Testament) from the Church and follow only Paul.
Many Churches today are unknowingly actually following the teachings of Marcion. Many other similar heresies arose including the Gnostics which are so hyped today with the Gospel of Judas and the Gospel of Mary.
Church Councils
The Councils of Laodicea, Nicaea, Laodicea 2, etc. progressively distanced believers from their Jewish Messiah. Many Biblical practices were outlawed by the Church including: keeping Shabbat, circumcision, keeping of the Feasts G-d commanded, etc. "The Council of Laodicea of around 365 decreed: Christians must not judaize by resting on the Sabbath, but must work on that day, rather honouring the Lord's Day; and, if they can, resting then as Christians. But if any shall be found to be judaizers, let them be anathema (accursed) from Christ." (Source Wikipedia).
The council of Nicaea in 325 CE forcibly separated the resurrection of the Messiah from Passover. The ruling was so crafted that Passover and Easter would never fall together (It is an interesting note that the planners were not as smart as they thought, for First Fruits not Passover is the date of the Resurrection, and that has continued to occur, several times in out generation).
Expulsion & Inquisition
Once the Biblical Jewish practices were denounced, the next step was enforcement. This enforcement took many forms, from excommunication to extermination. In Spain Columbus sailed on the very day Jews were expelled. Believers, if they practiced any Biblical Jewish practices were forced to confess, many times under extreme torture, and often murdered. "The historian Hernando del Pulgar, contemporary of Ferdinand and Isabella, estimated that the Inquisition had burned at the stake 2,000 people" (In just the beginning decade).
The ultimate tragedy occurred when Adolph Hitler and the Nazi's killed 6 million Jews. This was not religiously motivated as many were Believers in Messiah. All that was required is for 1 of your grandparents to be a Jew and you were to be exterminated.
Legalism & Today
The final chapter is not yet been written. What is obvious is that Jew's are still persecuted and hated today. Even within the Church, Messianic's and Messianic Jews are often accused of being legalistic. This happened recently in Rabbi Micha'els debate with Pat Donahue from the Church of Christ. Pat stated that Messianic's are not saved because we keep the Torah. He is not the only one the feel that way, while Evangelicals generally are somewhat supportive, the moment our views cross theirs, out comes the Judaizer label.
Imagine the scene today, a Jewish couple has heard about the Messiah, and they have trusted in Him. They seek a place to worship. On their second visit they are invited to a cook-out. Arriving the first thing they are handed is a nice big Pork chop or rib. When they politely decline, the person asks why? They explain that they are Jews and don't eat pork. The person who offered the nice ribs, confused, goes and gets the Pastor or Elder. The Elder or Pastor says 'why you can eat that now, your not under the law'. This pattern repeats itself, first for Passover, then the Holy Days. When Christmas and Easter roll around this couple is supposed to be putting up a tree and hunting Easter Eggs. If they don't, they are probably shunned, or a least given a strong talking to by the Pastor who explains they are to leave that "Jewish stuff" behind, that Christ freed them from it.
If the couple above agrees with the Pastor; he has unknowingly done what 2000 years of persecution and even Hitler could not do. He has caused the Jewish people to cease to exist!.
Next week we will address how Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and Christianity are different Theologically and how they each interpret scripture.
Shalom - Rabbi Gavri'el
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