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Hebrews (Part One): The Stage Is Set
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The ceremonial law, particularly the requirement of circumcision, was a significant point of contention in the early church, as many Jews who believed were zealous for the law of Moses. They were informed that Paul taught Jews among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, instructing them not to circumcise their children or follow the customs. This zeal for the ceremonial law created cultural turmoil in Jerusalem, contributing to the rejection of the church's message by those who could not accept the changes instituted under Jesus Christ. The decision to set aside circumcision as no longer required was a major doctrinal shift, reached during the conference in Jerusalem around 49 AD, nearly two decades after the events of Pentecost in 31 AD. This change was a test for the apostles to follow Christ rather than the traditions of Judaism, a test they passed by recognizing that Jesus, during His earthly ministry, never mentioned circumcision as a requirement. Under the New Covenant, both Gentiles and Israelites come to God on the same terms, with no distinction through ceremonial practices like circumcision, emphasizing that they are no better than one another in His sight. The book of Hebrews, written much later around 65 AD, provided written guidance on why Jesus Christ is central to salvation, reinforcing the shift away from ceremonial laws. In contrast to Leviticus, which dictated rigid ceremonial worship practices under the Old Covenant, Hebrews reflects the New Covenant where Christ, as the living Word, demonstrated the way of life directly, moving beyond physical observances to spiritual responsibilities. Though ceremonial practices are no longer required, the lessons from Leviticus remain part of God's Word, supporting believers in their relationship with Christ and fellow man, preparing them for responsibilities after His return.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Eighteen)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPaul never taught any Jew to forsake the Law of Moses, but he did warn against Pharisaical additions for the expressed purpose of attaining justification.
Hebrews: Its Background (Part Eight)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Hebrews emphasizes that spiritual growth and glorification depends on an individual's relationship with Christ, the centerpiece of the Book of Hebrews.
Forms vs. Spirituality (Part 4)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe yoke grievous to bear (Acts 15:10) was not God's law, but an entire package of Pharisaic regulations that had been elevated to the level of God's law.