Paul argues it is not the "works of the law" (ie religious halachic observance) that makes one tsadiq (righteous). "Works of the law" has erroneously been interpreted to mean "works of the Torah", this is very misleading, one could then assume then that "works of Torah" are not required in Mashiyach. This would mean that it would be ok to steal, lie, commit adultery, and violate Torah because no one in Mashiyach is under the "works of Torah". But Paul is referring to the "Works of Tradition" and referring to those who trust in the "works of Tradition" to establish their righteousness, outside of Mashiyach. Righteousness comes about through Faith, Faith grows through learning and observing the things of YHWH, not the things of man's traditions. Many Christian denominations have developed their own "Christian laws" the names of many Christian denominations depicts important and unique doctrines of that organization.
Paul clearly took a beating from the Romans and the Jews for presenting Mashiyach to the world, but the beating he took back then, is nothing compared to the gang warfare against him today from false religion and Hellenized Christianity. Paul is a righteous Jew who worked with his own hands to support the Good News he brought to the world. Precious few Pastors, Professors, Rabbis or Clerics work with their own hands to financially support others while working to advance the Kingdom of Elohim. Precious few leaders support themselves financially without relying on regular donations from others. But it is these men in leadership, and their Hellenized institutions who have remade Paul into a Torahless soul like they themselves.
Paul never heard the word "Justification" in his life, today "Justification" has become a foundational doctrine of Christianity. Justification has become a religious license for millions to live carnal, unfaithful lives under the label of a "Christian". You can be sure Paul was not living as a carnal man, you can also be certain the laggards who remade Paul into a Hellenist are living carnal lives and teaching others to do the same. Why not consider to live like Paul the Apostle, who observed the Shabbat and the Moedim, and sanctified the Word of YHWH in his life. Whether Jew or Gentile, we are called in one hope to live as our Master lived, Yeshua and all who walk in Him will honor His Word and let the Holy Spirit write Torah upon our hearts!
YHWH be with you,
Shalom U'Vrachot,
David
2007-02-06
19:18:50
·
7 answers
·
asked by
David T
3