by DoxaPar on Thu May 30, 2013 1:28 pm
I hope this post isn't a complete waste of time but instead adds some clarity. Maybe you guys will even learn something. I've learned a lot from you all so maybe I can teach you something now.
One of things that just continually amazes me in this discussion is the number of criticisms folks are throwing out without any observable knowledge of the subject. In particular, the one that has come up a lot is the criticism of Christians for not following the Old Testament (it's been presented other ways as well but they basic accusation is the same). I don't want to be a jerk but honestly I don't think the folks that have leveled this criticism understand just how stupid they sound. It's clear from their posts they have so little knowledge of the Bible that they aren't even qualified to criticize it. If you really want to lay waste to the Bible first spend a bit of time learning about it and its content. You'll be so much more effective.
The main question that I think needs to be address is "What is the difference between the Old and New Testament and are they both equally prescriptive upon modern (post-resurrection non-Jewish Christians". Or, stated another way, am I fair to call Christians hypocrites if they don't obey the law prohibiting the eating of pork, wearing cloths of mixed materials, etc. Frankly, most Christians don't even understand this so my post isn't directed to anyone in particular but most to Christians who don't understand their own book and those that have laid the accusations of hypocrisy here.
If you're not interested in the answer and would like to continue to criticize the Bible or Christians for something you clearly don't understand and sound foolish by all means go to the next post.
The first thing you need to understand is the concept of "covenants". Sometimes it is spoken about in terms of a "contract", "dispensation", "testament", "testimony". The Bible is divided theologically into (largely) two "covenants" (there are others but not relevant here). The first "covenant" was established between God and the nation of Israel and was layed out in Exodus, Lev. Deut (and somewhat Number). In other words, the terms and provisions of the "deal" were documented. This "contract" or "testament" said, "Hey, children of Israel, I'll be your God and you can be my people but here are the rules". This is where you find all those laws about don't eat pork, no wearing clothing of mixed fabrics, you must circumcise your kids on the 8th day, etc. etc.
This "contract" was between God and the people of Israel (modern Jews). Notice the audience here and the parties involved in the contract.
Now.. many many years later along comes Jesus and he's like, "Hey, I'm gonna give you a new "contract". This contract though, will be for everyone, not just Jews and there are new rules, provisions and requirements for this contract. And then he lays out those rules and provisions. Thus, putting aside the "Old Covenant's" (i.e. Old Testament's) requirements (actually, theologically speaking he fulfills the requirements of it and therefore, ends it's demands).
So.. in the first covenant Moses was the mediator and "laid down the law" of the covenant from Mount Sinai. In the "New Testament", Jesus (also from a Mount) laid down the terms of the new covenant.
Thus, the requirements (laws to be obeyed in the Bible) are NOT the same for all people and in all times. Do you see how the TERMS of the covenant could be different in the same book and be directed to different audience? This is (partially) why Christians can eat Famous Dave's, don't have to circumcise their children, aren't required to go to church on Saturday, tithe (yes, it's been mentioned here), and can wear polyester pants.
Doing these things isn't hypocritical, it's perfectly consistent with their own governing authority's prescriptions.
Last edited by
DoxaPar on Thu May 30, 2013 2:41 pm, edited 1 time in total.