Gravity Commons Podcast Paul Sloan: How We Misunderstand Jesus' Relationship to the Law of Moses
Nov 4, 2025
Dr. Paul T. Sloan, an Associate Professor of Early Christianity and author of Jesus and the Law of Moses, challenges the common view that Jesus dismissed the Law of Moses. He argues that Jesus actually aimed to restore the covenant, rather than abolishing it. The conversation explores how Protestant interpretations have misconceived the role of Torah, and how Jesus’ teachings align with broader Jewish thought. Sloan also addresses the complexities of Jesus' actions on the Sabbath and implications for Gentiles in the context of the Law.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Jesus As Herald Of Restoration
- Jesus announced restoration of Israel rather than abolishing Torah or saving people from the law.
- Restoration eschatology frames Jesus as solving national exile, not merely opposing legalism.
Why We Think Law Is The Problem
- Modern Protestant readings often treat the law as the problem to be overcome by grace and faith.
- Sloan argues Torah and grace are compatible and Jesus didn't nullify Torah to bring salvation.
Antitheses: Law Interpreting Law
- Matthew 5's antitheses interpret Torah with Torah, linking commands to each other rather than opposing them.
- Jesus teaches interior dispositions because Torah already demands heart-level obedience.
