Relations between Gentiles and Jews

Apostolic Conference: Gal 2:1-10 (cf. Acts 15:6-21)

Difficult issues in daily life: circumcision, foodlaws, etc. Those aspects of the Jewish Law which traditionally separated Jew from Gentile

First-century Judaism diverse, but united by Monotheism, Temple, and Torah

Struggle to be Faithful in a Gentile World

Military conquests of Alexander the Great (reigned 336-323 BCE): radically transforms the eastern Mediterranean world, Hellenism as an international culture

Conflict between Jews and Seleucid Kings of Syria reach climax during reign of Antiochus IV (175-163 BCE) who seeks to eradicate Mosaic tradition

Struggle to be Faithful in a Gentile World

Under persecutions of Antiochus, Jews died for practicing faith (2 Maccabees)

Growing belief in immortality and apocalyptic notions (e.g. Dan 12:1-3)

Maccabean revolt: Led by Judas Maccabeus, a Jewish army recaptures, purifies and redicates Temple 164 BCE (Hanukkah); Israel independence 142 BCE, establishment of Hasmonean dynasty

Domination of Rome

Hasmonean Period (142-40 BCE) is plagued by division

Rome conquers in 63 BCE - Pompey’s legions occupy Palestine

After 63 BCE Rome rules Palestine through “puppet” kings (Herodians) and Roman governors (Pontius Pilate)

Religious/Political challenge of loyalty to Rome (see Mark 12:17)

Domination of Rome

Herod the Great’s building program (37-4 BCE): massive renovation of Temple, fortresses (Masada), port city of Caesarea.

Jewish War against the Romans (66-77 CE), led by passionate Jewish nationalists.

Temple destroyed in 70 CE Second revolt in 132-35 CE led by bar Kochba

(some believed him to be the Messiah)

NT Attitudes toward Rome

The political implications of Jesus’ proclamation of the Kingdom of God

Revelation: strongest negative voice against Rome (see Rev 17-18)

Luke-Acts: Christianity is a law-abiding movement

Study Romans 13