Is that unusual? I’ve always thought that a Christian looking back at all the dysfunction in the Hebrew Bible, and its lack of narrative closure, would find almost physical relief with the New Testament’s story of a savior who sets a good example and ties up all the Book’s loose ends.
I don’t know if it is unusual or not but my parents were sectarians (Jehovah’s Witnesses converts who left the Catholic Church before I was born). JWs do not believe in the divinity of Christ and are millenarians. Jesus was a great teacher and JWS consider themselves modern day Israelites.
Though I have rejected this sect and most of its teachings (especially because it is run as a theocracy), I realize it has formed me in significant ways and I am sure my love of the Hebrew Bible and Jewish people are due to the sect’s influence.
However, my position today is one informed by significant time spent in Israel and serious friendships with Jews, Catholics and Protestants. My struggles say more about me than about the religious beliefs of these named religions. Or maybe not. 🤷♀️
That’s fascinating, EE… and quite beautiful. All these clubs, including Club Jew, have their oddities. But maybe that’s what gives them their charm. :-)
I grew up on Hebrew Bible stories. They shaped me way more than the New Testament. Way more.
Is that unusual? I’ve always thought that a Christian looking back at all the dysfunction in the Hebrew Bible, and its lack of narrative closure, would find almost physical relief with the New Testament’s story of a savior who sets a good example and ties up all the Book’s loose ends.
I don’t know if it is unusual or not but my parents were sectarians (Jehovah’s Witnesses converts who left the Catholic Church before I was born). JWs do not believe in the divinity of Christ and are millenarians. Jesus was a great teacher and JWS consider themselves modern day Israelites.
Though I have rejected this sect and most of its teachings (especially because it is run as a theocracy), I realize it has formed me in significant ways and I am sure my love of the Hebrew Bible and Jewish people are due to the sect’s influence.
However, my position today is one informed by significant time spent in Israel and serious friendships with Jews, Catholics and Protestants. My struggles say more about me than about the religious beliefs of these named religions. Or maybe not. 🤷♀️
That’s fascinating, EE… and quite beautiful. All these clubs, including Club Jew, have their oddities. But maybe that’s what gives them their charm. :-)