Was Paul the First Christian Convert?
Of course, Paul converted, right? The chapter heading says so, and his name was changed to Saul, wasn't it?
New Testament Insights
174 posts
Insights and new perspectives on the New Testament
The Divorce of Israel
Did G_D divorce the Jewish people? Has He abandoned any covenantal ties with the people of the promise, or has a misunderstanding occurred?
The Healing of the Blind Man
What is the lesson of the healing of the blind man? Is it simply a recorded event, or is there more for readers to take away from this moral?
New Book - Exploration of the Soul
Though concealed from many, the Bible's inner wisdom and soul, particularly its exploration through the Jewish tradition, remain some of humankind's most practical, timeless, and profound writings.
Developing the Soul - Mussar Series. Part 4 ▶
In this final session, we recap some of the concepts of this study, focusing on some common areas of imbalance many of us will want to be aware of.
What Does the Bible Say About the Afterlife?
The concept of the afterlife, particularly heaven, and hell, has been the subject of fascination and contemplation across various religious and cultural traditions. But, what does the Bible say about these topics?
Developing the Soul - Mussar Series. Part 3 ▶
In this study session, we look at an often-overlooked presupposition that we must consider when we begin spiritual development. In this, we look at the issue of impurity that stems from the sin of Adam.
Unexpected Encounters: Jesus and the Canaanite Woman
Jesus is surrounded by his students while teaching when a woman suddenly interrupts, asking him to heal her daughter. We naturally expect him to immediately heal a child with care and compassion. However, his response is an unexpected curveball.
Developing the Soul - Mussar Series. Part 2 ▶
In this session, we look at the concept of Derech Eretz, also known as "Decency" or customs and manners. Derech Eretz is defined as, then ancient Jewish principle that refers to the decorum, dignified behavior, and gentlemanly conduct that should characterize a Jew at all times.
What Is A "Baptism of Fire?"
What did John [the Baptist] mean when he said Jesus would 'baptize with fire'? The answer can be found in the Kabbalah, and is surprisingly practical for understanding some more complex metaphors in the Bible.
The First Adam and Second Adam: Adam Kadmon and the Logos
With this article, we will start to cover some of the more complex concepts that are featured in the New Testament. Hopefully, we'll lay a foundation to understand ideas many see as controversial and/or a major departure from Jewish thought.
The Pharisees Who Wash the Outside of Cups
Though it can lead to flawed conclusions, reading the Gospels and Epistles without understanding the complicated and technical discussions of Jewish law behind them is simple. We should know that these knowledge gaps are not inconsequential and can result in oversimplified interpretations.