PDF Summary:Papa's Last Words, by R. H. Ben-Shalom

In Papa's Last Words, R. H. Ben-Shalom examines core aspects of the Christian faith, including the nature of God, the person and work of Christ, and the authority and interpretation of biblical texts. Ben-Shalom challenges mainstream views like the Trinity doctrine, arguing for the singularity of God and Jesus' fulfillment of Messianic prophecies.

The author advocates for knowing and using God's name, contending that its avoidance diminishes humanity's connection to the divine. He engages with common objections to biblical accounts and Jesus' Messiahship, pointing to scriptural and archaeological evidence that supports their reliability.

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• Some theologians argue that Jesus' kingship is not to be understood in a literal, political sense, but rather in a spiritual sense, where He reigns in the hearts and lives of believers, thus fulfilling the prophecy of kingship during His earthly ministry.
• Some scholars argue that the Book of Revelation, which discusses the millennial kingdom, is highly symbolic and should not be used as a blueprint for future historical events.
• Some philosophical perspectives suggest that ultimate peace and justice may be unattainable ideals due to the complex and often conflicting nature of human societies and moral frameworks.

Jesus' Death and Resurrection Offer Salvation and Forgiveness

Ben-Shalom emphasizes that the core of Jesus' mission was to offer salvation and forgiveness through His crucifixion and rising from the dead. He explains that Jesus, as the perfect sacrifice, accepted the penalty of sin, creating a path for humanity to be reconciled with God. This act of altruistic love, he argues, offers forgiveness for both unintentional and intentional sins, providing a means for spiritual cleansing and restoring one's connection with God. He also contrasts the legacy of death received from Adam, the first man, with the offering of eternal life through Jesus, the Last Adam, highlighting the transformative power of Jesus' sacrifice.

Context

• This is the process of restoring a broken relationship between humanity and God, made possible through Jesus' sacrificial death, which bridges the gap caused by sin.
• The idea of Jesus accepting the penalty of sin is rooted in the Christian doctrine of original sin, which suggests that humanity inherited a sinful nature due to the actions of Adam and Eve. Jesus' sacrifice is seen as a remedy for this inherited condition.
• Spiritual cleansing refers to the process of being purified from sin and guilt, allowing individuals to stand righteous before God. This is a key aspect of the salvation experience in Christianity.
• The cross, as a symbol of Jesus' sacrifice, represents both suffering and victory over sin and death, embodying the hope of eternal life for believers.
• The idea of Jesus as the Last Adam is central to doctrines of atonement and salvation, emphasizing the belief that through Jesus, believers can overcome the spiritual death introduced by Adam.
• These events have profoundly influenced Western art, literature, and culture, inspiring countless works that explore themes of sacrifice, redemption, and hope.

Jesus Never Changed the Torah

Ben-Shalom addresses the common misconception, shared by both non-messianic Jews and some Christians, that Jesus abolished the Torah or changed its precepts. He argues that Jesus, in fact, upheld the Torah as eternal and authoritative, emphasizing its continuing relevance for His followers. He criticizes the Christian tendency to reject certain aspects of the Torah, arguing that this practice deviates from Jesus' own teachings and His example of perfect obedience.

Jesus Upheld the Everlasting and Authoritative Nature of the Law

Ben-Shalom argues that Jesus never intended to abolish or alter Jewish law. He points to Jesus' statements, such as "I did not come to destroy but to fulfill" (Matthew 5:17) and "Not one jot or tittle will pass away from the Law" (Matthew 5:18), as evidence of His affirmation of the Torah's eternal relevance. Ben-Shalom believes Jesus came to exemplify the Torah, not to annul it, providing a model for His followers to live according to God's instructions. He contends that this understanding is supported by Jesus' own life and teachings, which consistently aligned with the Torah's principles.

Other Perspectives

• Jesus' teachings on issues such as divorce and the Sabbath seem to reinterpret Jewish law, suggesting a modification rather than a strict adherence to the original commandments.
• The phrase "to fulfill" could be understood as bringing the Law to its intended purpose or completion, which might imply a transformation or a new understanding of the Law in light of Jesus' teachings and actions.
• The concept of declaring all foods clean in Mark 7:19 has been seen as a departure from the dietary laws prescribed in the Torah.
• The cultural and historical context of Jesus' life was very different from the modern world, which may limit the applicability of his model in contemporary society.

Christianity's Torah Rejection Deviates From Jesus’ Teachings

The author criticizes mainstream Christianity for rejecting aspects of the Jewish Law while simultaneously claiming to follow Jesus. He argues that this behavior is hypocritical and demonstrates a misunderstanding of both Jesus' teachings and the aim of the New Covenant. By abandoning the Law, Ben-Shalom contends, Christians have embraced a form of selective obedience that distorts the message of the Gospel and undermines its connection to the Hebrew roots of their faith.

Other Perspectives

• The New Testament, particularly in the writings of Paul, suggests that the Law was a tutor to lead to Christ, but once faith has come, Christians are no longer under a tutor.
• The Council of Jerusalem, as recorded in Acts 15, suggests that the early Christian leaders, including the apostles, did not require Gentile converts to adhere to the full Jewish Law, indicating an early Christian understanding of a distinction between Jewish cultural practices and the requirements for followers of Jesus.
• The Gospel message is centered on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is a universal message of salvation that transcends adherence to specific laws or customs.

Christians Join God's People Through Faith, Not Judaism

The author clarifies that the New Covenant, established through Jesus, offers a path for Gentiles to enter into a relationship with God without having to convert to Judaism and become subject to the regulations of the Sinai Covenant. He explains that while the Hebrew Bible remains authoritative, faith in Jesus, not adherence to Jewish rituals or traditions, is what leads to salvation. This grafting into God's community, he argues, is a fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham that He would bless all nations through his lineage.

Context

• This theological shift allowed Christianity to spread rapidly across the Roman Empire, as it removed cultural and religious barriers that might have hindered Gentile conversion.
• The idea underscores a universal approach to Christianity, where cultural and ritualistic barriers are minimized, promoting inclusivity and unity among diverse believers.
• The Hebrew Bible contains numerous moral and ethical teachings that continue to influence religious and secular thought, including concepts of justice, charity, and community responsibility.
• The promise to bless all nations is reiterated in several places in the Bible, including Genesis 12:3 and Galatians 3:8, where Paul interprets this promise as being fulfilled in Christ.

Properly Interpreting and Comprehending Biblical Texts

Ben-Shalom emphasizes the importance of examining the Scriptures within their original cultural and historical context, arguing that this approach is essential for gaining a true understanding of God's message. He critiques both Jewish and Christian misinterpretations that have arisen from neglecting this context. Furthermore, he argues that depending on the Holy Ghost, rather than solely human reason, is crucial for properly interpreting the Bible, allowing God to reveal His deeper truths to those who seek Him sincerely.

Examine Biblical Texts in Their Original Societal and Chronological Context

The author asserts that to correctly interpret the Scriptures requires an awareness of the cultural and historical backdrop in which they were written. He points out that both Christian and Jewish interpretations have often gone astray by neglecting this context, leading to misinterpretations and even contradictory views. He encourages readers to engage with the Hebrew roots of their faith, especially Christians, and to consider the ancient Jewish understanding of the Tanakh (Old Testament), to better grasp the intended meaning of the biblical text.

Religious Communities Have Misunderstandings and Biases That Lead to Improper Scriptural Interpretations

Ben-Shalom argues that interpretations by both Christian and Jewish scholars have been shaped by cultural biases and misunderstandings. He explains that Jewish interpretations, particularly those stemming from rabbis and Jewish sages writing after the first century, often carry anti-Christian biases that shape their understanding of Messianic prophecies. He also criticizes mainstream Christianity for neglecting the Hebrew context of biblical texts, leading them to embrace pagan-influenced interpretations like the Trinity doctrine.

Other Perspectives

• The historical development of religious doctrines, such as the Trinity, may have been influenced by philosophical and theological discourse rather than simply "pagan-influenced interpretations."
• The concept of bias implies a deviation from an objective truth, but interpretations of religious texts are inherently subjective and influenced by the interpreter's community, experiences, and beliefs.
• Mainstream Christianity often engages with the Hebrew context of biblical texts through historical-critical scholarship, which seeks to understand the historical circumstances, cultural context, and linguistic nuances of the original Hebrew scriptures.

Trusting in the Spirit Is Essential for Biblical Interpretation, Not Just Human Reason

Ben-Shalom highlights the Spirit's importance in guiding believers to a proper understanding of the Scriptures. He argues that while human reason and scholarship can assist in interpretation, the Spirit's illumination is crucial for discerning the deeper truths of God's Word. He encourages readers to cultivate a relationship with God and to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance when engaging with the scriptures, allowing God to reveal His message to them personally.

Practical Tips

• Start a small discussion group with friends or community members where each person shares their interpretation of a biblical passage and discusses how they believe the Spirit influenced their understanding. This collective exercise can help you see the diverse ways the Spirit works in different individuals, enriching your own interpretive process.
• Engage in a creative expression activity, such as drawing or composing music, inspired by your scriptural readings. Sometimes, engaging different parts of your brain can unlock new levels of understanding and spiritual connection. Share your creations with others to inspire and encourage a deeper exploration of the scriptures.
• Experiment with 'illuminated reasoning' during decision-making. When faced with a decision, list the pros and cons using your best logical reasoning. Then, enter a period of meditation or prayer, asking for spiritual guidance on the matter. Note any new insights that come to you during this time. Compare these insights with your logical list to make a decision that feels both well-reasoned and spiritually aligned.
• Engage in "Scriptural Role-Play" with friends or family members where you reenact stories or parables from the Scriptures. This can be a fun and interactive way to delve deeper into the narratives and characters, gaining a more personal understanding of their experiences and teachings. For instance, assign roles from a well-known parable and act it out, then discuss how each person interpreted their character's relationship with the divine.
• Develop a habit of pausing for a moment of silent contemplation before reading a passage to set your intention to be open to spiritual guidance. This can create a receptive mindset, allowing you to be more perceptive to insights that resonate with your spiritual journey.
• Engage in a creative activity like painting, music, or writing poetry without a set intention, allowing your subconscious to guide the process. This can be a way to tap into deeper thoughts and feelings that you might not access through more direct or analytical approaches. Notice if certain themes or ideas keep surfacing in your creative work, as these could be interpreted as messages meant for your personal reflection and growth.

Interconnection of the Tanakh and Christian Bible

Ben-Shalom emphasizes the essential connection between the Tanakh (the Old Testament) and the New Testament, arguing that they form a cohesive whole that reveals God's plan throughout history. He points out that the writers of the Christian Scriptures viewed the Tanakh as authoritative, seeing Jesus as its fulfillment. He argues against separating the Tanakh from the Christian Greek Scriptures, contending that it distorts God's unified message and leads to a fragmented understanding of Christianity.

New Testament Writers Viewed Tanakh As Authoritative, Seeing Jesus As Its Fulfillment

Ben-Shalom points out that the New Testament writers consistently viewed the Tanakh as authoritative and foundational for their understanding of Jesus. He provides numerous examples of quotations and allusions to the Tanakh within the New Testament, demonstrating that the first Christians saw Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. He argues that this interconnectedness speaks to the unity of God's message and the continuity of His promises to humanity.

Practical Tips

• Create a personal reflection journal that focuses on the themes of authority and inspiration. As you read through the Tanakh, jot down instances where you see its teachings reflected in your own values or in society today. This exercise can help you appreciate the enduring relevance of ancient texts in contemporary life.
• Develop a visual timeline that maps out key events and figures from the Tanakh alongside those from your area of interest. This can help you visualize the historical and thematic links, providing a clearer picture of how foundational texts can inform contemporary understanding.
• Engage in interfaith dialogue by sharing insights on the shared heritage of the Tanakh and the New Testament. Find a local or online interfaith group and participate in discussions about the commonalities between Jewish and Christian scriptures. Prepare by identifying a few specific examples of quotations or allusions, and use these as a starting point for conversation. This can foster a deeper understanding and respect for the historical and spiritual links between the two faiths.

Separating the Hebrew Bible and New Covenant Distorts God's Plan

The author criticizes the tendency, particularly in conventional Christianity, to disconnect the Tanakh from the New Testament, suggesting that the latter has superseded or replaced the former. Ben-Shalom argues that this approach creates a false dichotomy and distorts the intended message of each section. He contends that God's plan unfolds progressively throughout Scripture, with the New Testament building upon and fulfilling the promises and predictions of the Tanakh.

Other Perspectives

• The concept of "replacement theology" or "supersessionism" has historical roots in Christian thought, positing that the church has replaced Israel in God's plan, which could be seen as the New Testament taking precedence over the Tanakh.
• Various Christian denominations interpret the relationship between the Old and New Testaments differently, with some emphasizing discontinuity due to the New Covenant's fulfillment and transformation of the Old.
• Jewish theology traditionally maintains that the Tanakh is a complete work in itself and does not require a New Testament to fulfill its promises and predictions.

Responding to Criticisms Against Biblical Narratives

Ben-Shalom addresses common criticisms against the Bible's reliability, highlighting archaeological discoveries that have refuted earlier doubts and confirmed the accuracy of biblical accounts. He also tackles objections to Jesus as the Messiah, demonstrating that these arguments often stem from misunderstandings or biases rather than a genuine engagement with biblical texts. He encourages readers to weigh the evidence carefully and to approach controversial doctrines with caution and humility.

Evidence Refutes Accusations of Bible’s Unreliability

Ben-Shalom argues archaeological discoveries and manuscript evidence strongly support the reliability of the Bible. He cites numerous examples, such as the discovery of Sargon's palace, the Lachish ostraca confirming the Babylonian exile, and the Ketef Hinnom amulets containing ancient biblical texts, as evidence that archaeological findings consistently align with biblical accounts. He also argues that the Qumran texts, containing ancient copies of Hebrew religious texts, demonstrate the remarkably accurate transmission of biblical writings over centuries.

Discoveries Confirm Biblical Accounts Once Doubted

The author highlights specific archaeological finds validating biblical accounts previously questioned or doubted by historians and scholars. He specifically mentions the excavation of Sargon’s palace in Assyria, previously thought to be a fictional figure mentioned in Isaiah 20:1, along with the Lachish letters confirming the Babylonian siege on Jerusalem, earlier dismissed by scholars as a "Jewish myth." These discoveries, he argues, demonstrate the historical accuracy of biblical texts despite skepticism from secular sources.

Context

• The excavation of Sargon II's palace at Khorsabad, near modern-day Mosul in Iraq, revealed inscriptions and reliefs that confirmed his historical presence and achievements, aligning with the biblical narrative.
• The discovery of the Lachish letters was significant in the field of biblical archaeology, as it provided direct evidence from the period, helping to bridge the gap between historical records and biblical texts.
• Secular scholars often rely on empirical evidence and scientific methods to validate historical claims, while religious perspectives may accept scriptural accounts as inherently true.

Preservation of Scripture: Evidence From Ancient Manuscripts and the Dead Sea Documents

The author draws attention to the Dead Sea Scrolls and early New Testament manuscripts like the John Rylands papyrus as evidence for the meticulous preservation of the biblical text. He notes that these discoveries, spanning centuries, reveal only minor variations in wording, confirming the reliability of the transmission process and substantiating the accuracy of the Bible's content we have today.

Context

• These findings have reinforced confidence in the historical reliability of biblical texts, allowing scholars to trace the development and transmission of these texts over time.
• Modern techniques such as radiocarbon dating and digital imaging have allowed for more precise dating and analysis of these manuscripts, enhancing our understanding of their origins and authenticity.
• While minor variations exist among manuscripts, they typically involve spelling, grammar, or word order, which do not affect the core messages or doctrines of the biblical texts.
• The careful preservation of these texts reflects their importance to religious communities, who viewed them as sacred and authoritative, motivating meticulous copying practices.
• Known as P52, this is the earliest known fragment of the New Testament, dated to around 125 CE. It contains a portion of the Gospel of John, demonstrating the early existence and circulation of New Testament writings.

Objections to the Messiahship of Jesus Often Stem From Misunderstandings or Biases

Ben-Shalom addresses common objections to Jesus being the Messiah, demonstrating that these arguments are often rooted in misunderstandings of Jesus' mission and His Messianic role. He explains that while Jesus did not fulfill certain expectations associated with a political or military Messiah, He fulfilled the predictions about the suffering redeemer and the priestly Messiah, forming a fresh divine agreement through His sacrifice.

Addressing Jewish Arguments on Jesus' Divinity and Messiahship Through Scripture

Ben-Shalom directly engages with several Jewish arguments against Jesus' divinity and Messiahship, utilizing Scripture to demonstrate that the Christian understanding of Jesus is valid. He clarifies the Jewish reading of the 53rd chapter of Isaiah, which they apply to Israel as a nation, and counters by explaining how the passage more accurately describes the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus. He also addresses the Jewish expectation of a Davidic lineage for the savior, clarifying that Jesus does fulfill this requirement through His mother, Mary, and His legal father, Joseph. He further tackles the Jewish objection to Jesus not building a Third Temple by explaining that Jesus himself is the true temple, raised after three days, and points to the numerous prophecies that speak of the structure already being built upon the Messiah's arrival.

Context

• The building of a Third Temple is a significant aspect of Jewish eschatology, symbolizing the ultimate redemption and the presence of God among His people.
• Christians believe that Jesus fulfills numerous Old Testament prophecies, which they argue validate his role as the Messiah. These include prophecies about his birth, life, death, and resurrection.
• Traditionally, Jewish interpretations see the "Suffering Servant" as a metaphor for the nation of Israel, which has endured suffering and exile but remains faithful to God.
• In Jewish tradition, adoption could confer full legal rights and status, meaning Joseph's role as Jesus' adoptive father would legally place Jesus within the Davidic line.
• The New Testament, particularly in the Gospel of John, presents Jesus as the embodiment of God's presence, with references to Jesus saying, "Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days," which is interpreted as referring to his resurrection.

Approach Christian Doctrines Like the Trinity With Humility and Caution

The author acknowledges that even within Christianity, certain doctrines, like the Trinity, can be confusing and require careful consideration. He advises readers to approach these teachings with humility and caution, recognizing that human understanding is limited and that certain aspects of God's nature may remain a mystery. He emphasizes the importance of relying on the guidance of the Holy Ghost and grounding one's faith in the clear teachings of Scripture, rather than blindly accepting theologies constructed by human reasoning.

Context

• Many theologians and spiritual leaders encourage personal reflection and prayer as means to engage with complex doctrines like the Trinity, suggesting that spiritual insight can complement intellectual understanding.
• Various analogies, such as water existing as ice, liquid, and vapor, are often used to explain the Trinity, but these are limited and can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or oversimplifications.
• The Bible itself contains passages that suggest the incomprehensibility of God, such as Isaiah 55:8-9, which states that God's thoughts and ways are higher than human thoughts and ways.
• Many theologians argue that some aspects of God’s nature are inherently mysterious and beyond full human comprehension, which is why reliance on divine guidance is emphasized.
• While tradition plays a significant role in many Christian denominations, the emphasis on Scripture suggests that traditions should be evaluated in light of biblical teachings to ensure they align with foundational Christian beliefs.