Unraveling the Controversy of Healing on Shabbat in the Gospels
Some of Jesus's more contentious conflicts stem from his healing on this Holy day. But if healing on Shabbat is generally permitted in Jewish law, what is the real point of the story?
Replacement Theology
38 posts
How to Read the Letters of Paul
The writings of the Apostle Paul, commonly known as the Epistles, hold immense significance in Christian theology. How will we re-evaluate his letters if we view them within a specific Rabbinic correspondence framework?
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?
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 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.
Paul's Eagerness to Celebrate Shavuot
Did you know that Paul was adamant about keeping the festival of Shavuot at the Temple in Jerusalem? If not, it is likely because many English translations have obscured this account.
The Cursing of the Fig Tree
There is a bizarre story that seems to be out of place in the hagiographical flow of the Gospels. It is the story in which Jesus takes his vengeance out upon a random fig tree on the side of the road. This story concludes with many rightfully scratching their heads,
Who Killed Jesus?
There is a perennial tension in the Jewish community that emerges around the time of Easter. In past centuries, the yearly retelling of the "Passion" would spark fiery pogroms and blood libels throughout Europe, as Christians sought to avenge the death of Jesus,
Pharisees
As a child growing up in the church, admittedly, I had acquired a negative view of the Pharisees. The dark villains of many Sunday school stories and their combative portrayal in the Gospel readings, it seemed the word ‘Pharisee’ was an acceptable form of a curse word. However, I recall
The Missing Context of the New Testament - pt. 2
As part of the greater Jewish community, the Apostolic leaders struggled with these particular issues more acutely. The sudden influx of Gentiles leaving paganism to join the diasporic Jewish communities made this a primary issue for them...
But You Are Not To Be Called "Rabbi"
From a literalist read of the Gospels, it appears that Jesus gives a clear prohibition against the use of religious titles, in particular, the title of "Rabbi".
A New Commandment
Did Jesus teach a new and separate commandment apart from the commandments of the Torah?