Week 11- The Christian Faith in Jewish Context (Hebrews and James)

Topic 11: "The Christian Faith in Jewish Context" (Hebrews and James). In these lectures Dr. Tim focuses on two New Testament letters, Hebrews and James, which draw heavily on the Jewish theological background of the Christian faith. The authors, like many of the first Christians, were Jewish themselves and understood Jesus Christ and their faith in him as a logical extension of what was taught in Hebrew Scriptures. In Hebrews, the author explains the meaning of Jesus Christ's life and death in terms drawn from the Old Testament (e.g., high priest, sacrifice, atonement, etc.) to urge Jesus's followers not to revert to Judaism amid persecution. To stand strong, they need to keep their eyes fixed on Jesus and to hold on to their faith in him. In James, the author emphasizes the importance of doing good deeds and showing one's faith in Christ by treating other people fairly and well. James is one of the most practical books in the New Testament and makes clear that true religion, which is pleasing to God, will include social concern and concrete acts of service. One of the key teachings in these lectures addresses the thorny question of whether salvation is by works (as James seems to argue) or by faith (so, Paul). Is there a contradiction in the Bible? Were the early Christian leaders fighting with one another? The professor argues that the answers to these questions can be found by examining the different contexts behind each letter.