What is Torahism? Are Christians Required to Keep the Law of Moses? Interview with R.L. Solberg
Oct 31, 2023
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Join The Remnant Radio for a theological discussion with R.L. Solberg about Torahism. They explore the role of Mosaic law in Christianity and the importance of balancing freedom and adherence to the law. They also discuss the relevance of Mosaic laws for Christians, the argument of Gentiles being grafted into Israel, and the interpretation of the law of Moses in the New Testament. Additionally, they examine the different types of laws found in the Bible, analyze Acts chapters 10, 11, and 15, and explore the historical origins of Torahism.
Colossians 2:16-17 explains the correct Mosaic way of observing certain dietary restrictions and festivals.
Torahism often questions the interpretation of Mark 7:19, claiming it refers to cleansing of the stomach rather than declaring all foods clean.
Romans 14 addresses the issue of food laws, emphasizing that observance should not be a central point of division among believers.
Deep dives
Colossians 2:16-17
Colossians 2:16-17 is often brought up to argue against certain dietary restrictions and the observance of festivals, new moons, and Sabbaths. According to Torahism, Paul is not saying that these practices should be completely abandoned, but that they should be observed in the correct Mosaic way.
Mark 7:19
Mark 7:19 directly states that Jesus declared all foods clean. However, Torahism often claims that this verse was not in the original manuscripts or that it has been misinterpreted. They may argue that the Greek word 'katharizōn' in this verse refers to cleansing of the stomach rather than Jesus cleansing all foods.
Romans 14
Romans 14 addresses the issue of food laws and the observance of special days within the early Christian community. Paul emphasizes that these matters are not of central importance and should not be used to judge or divide believers. Torahism may argue that this passage is about the correct way to observe these laws rather than whether they should be observed at all.
Importance of Focusing on Jesus Rather than the Law
The podcast episode emphasizes the danger of shifting one's focus away from Jesus towards the law. It explores the potential harm of becoming overly preoccupied with following the Mosaic law, which can lead to a neglect of the central message of the gospel. The discussion highlights that the Torah is not a means to salvation or righteousness, as that is achieved through faith in Christ alone. The speaker emphasizes that while it is acceptable for individuals to choose to observe certain aspects of the law, it should not be imposed on others, and it is crucial to maintain a proper focus on Jesus and his finished work.
Historical Context and Origins of Torahism
The podcast episode delves into the historical context and origins of Torahism, also known as the Hebrew Roots Movement. It explains that Torahism emerged in the mid to late 1800s, influenced by the Millerite and Sabotarian movements. The discussion highlights the role of figures like Herbert Armstrong and the Worldwide Church of God in further popularizing Torahism. While Torahism claims to hold a theological position rooted in the Old Testament commandments, the episode argues that it lacks historical and scriptural support. It emphasizes that Torahism is a recent phenomenon absent from church history, and that the New Testament provides clear guidance on the relationship between believers and the Mosaic law.
Join The Remnant Radio for a theological discussion with R.L. Solberg and his book addressing the questions: Are Christians required to keep the Law of Moses? Are Christians required to keep the Ten Commandments? Was Jesus divine?
R. L. Solberg is an author, apologist, and professor of theology. He runs an apologetics/teaching ministry called Defending the Biblical Roots of Christianity and is a leading Christian apologist against Torahism (aka Hebrew Roots, Torah-observant Christianity), which is a teaching that followers of Jesus are required to keep the Old Testament Law. He has been pursuing theology, apologetics, and philosophy formally and informally for more than two decades.
We'll hear him discuss Torahism and other critical questions related to the Jewish roots of the Christian faith.