The next class (19 mins) in our series reveals the view of the early church towards the Jews. We will compare the scriptures to early Christian leaders. All affirm that Israel has been "replaced"—the church are God's people, not the Jews.
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Main ideas:
- Jesus and the apostles clearly taught that Israel had lost its covenant and nationhood in the sight of God (Matt 22:2-9; 23:31-39; John 8:22-24, 39-47; Rom 8:30-10:4; 10:20-21; 1 Thess 2:14-16).
- [These strong words are not "antisemitic," as they were articulated by Semites (Jews). Not only Jesus, but all the apostles too were Jews. Their words are no more unfair or biased than the criticisms of the O.T. prophets. Sadly, after the declension of the church in the 4th century, it was only a matter of time before real antisemitism reared its ugly head.]
- This viewpoint was universal in the early church. It did not originate from one congregation or typify one part of the Roman Empire. All over the empire, this was the position of the Christians.
Next: A Mass conversion of the Jews in the end-times?
