With the sacfrifice of Jesus on the cross, a new covenant was written between God and the people (the line of demarcation between the old and new testament). While the mosaic laws were not "taken away nor added to..." (Jesus' words paraphrased), the Christian acknowledges the old testament as historical and prophetic of the coming messiah and ultimate redemption of mankind. The teachings of the new covenant, taken from the new testament are directions to living the commandments that Jesus taught his disciples, and all of mankind who believe in him and accrept him as savior; that is to "love God with all your mind, heart, soul and being, and to love your neighbor as yourself.."

Scholars accpet that the mosiac, cleanliness laws were for the protection of Gods people. Disease and illness that was linked to certain behaviors and diets were minimized by strict adherance to the levitical teachings. This was Gods way of protecting his people as much as possible, given the fallen and imperfect state the people (we) live in. A close study of the old testament will reveal a strong emphasis on family, and familial responsibilities. Laws on adultery and sexual behavior helped further protect the people from disease and family breakdown.

The orthodox Jews acknowledge Jesus as a prophet, but do not recognize him as the "Messiah" (They believed the messsiah would come in, guns blazing, and be a powerful "warlord" type deliverer. This did not happen, so they, as a people, do not believe in the Christ; they are still awaiting the coming of the MEssiah). As Gods chosen people, they are assured the rewards of heaven, without the acceptance of the savior (The "pathway" or belief in the Savior of mankind , if you will, was granted the gentile to become an heir of the kingdom eternal). This is why the Jewish teachings are still so closely linked and based on the Pentateuch, the first 5 books of the old testament. For them, the New Testament has no literal meaning as to the guidance of their faith.

There is a jewish sect, called the Messianic Jews, that are turning to the teachings of Jesus, and growing to accept him as savior.

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RM Smith
1988 560SL

"Where is it again that we are going, and why are we in this handbasket"?