Understanding Supersessionism and the Controversy over a TBM Article (Ari Lamm)
Nov 3, 2021
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Guest Ari Lamm explains supersessionism, Judaism-Christianity relationship, and controversy over TBM article. Topics include Marcion's argument, integration of 'new' and 'old', and why 'legalism' is seen negatively.
Interpreting Jesus within a Jewish context emphasizes his connection to Torah interpretations.
The sensitivity surrounding terms like 'legalism' highlights the importance of understanding historical implications.
Reflecting on how different groups like the Pharisees approached interpretations reveals diverse dialogues in biblical times.
Deep dives
Interpreting Jesus in a Jewish Context
The podcast episode delves into interpreting Jesus within his Jewish context, showcasing how he was a Jewish thinker in the first century trying to discern God's desires. It explores the idea that Jesus, like other Jews of the period, believed he was interpreting the Torah correctly. This approach aims to read Jesus within a hebraic framework, emphasizing his Jewish roots.
Challenging Notions of Legalism
The discussion touches on the term 'legalism' and its historical implications. It highlights how labeling certain Jewish interpretations as legalistic and contrasting them with Christian perspectives can evoke the harmful stereotype of 'carnal Israel.' The episode addresses the sensitivity surrounding terms like legalism when describing Jewish thinking.
Pharisees' Interpretive Approaches
The episode prompts reflection on the interpretive approaches of groups like the Pharisees in biblical times. It suggests that the Pharisees could have responded to critiques by emphasizing the importance of broader interpretations beyond strict legalism. This analysis demonstrates how varying Jewish sects engaged in interpretive dialogues.
Intellectual History Analysis
Rabbi Dr. Lam draws on his academic background to dissect the intellectual history of early Judaism and Christianity. His research focuses on how individuals derived knowledge on behavior and beliefs, emphasizing diverse sources like teachers, prophets, and interpreters. This scholarly perspective adds depth to understanding historical religious debates.
Navigating Supersessionism
The podcast navigates the delicate topic of supersessionism by examining the nuanced ways in which beliefs about Jewish-Christian theological relationships are portrayed. It underscores the importance of interpreting religious texts within their historical contexts to avoid controversial implications. The episode encourages thoughtful reflection on theological dialogues and historical sensitivities.
A couple of weeks ago, The Biblical Mind published an article by Michael LeFebvre titled Jesus Restored the Original Purpose of the Law in the New Testament. Some readers expressed concern that the article endorsed supersessionist views. Not intending to suggest supersessionism, Michael revised some language in the article to address the concerns. It was retitled Jesus' Concept of the Law in the New Testament. Some Christians readers said they didn't fully understand the reaction.
In response, Rabbi Dr. Ari Lamm joined the podcast to explain supersessionism, the relationship between Christianity and Judaism, and the reaction to some language in Michael's original article.
Show notes:
0:26 What the original title possibly conveyed
4:30 The relationship between Judaism and Christianity