The Original Faith

REPOST IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW

Did you know Christianity was not the original faith?

Most ‘Christians’ are really shocked when they find out that ‘Christianity’ was not the faith of the apostles. Instead, the original faith was manifest at the time of the Apostles as the Nazarene ‘sect’ of Israel. They understood that it was not strict observance of the Law that saved you. They understood that deliverance (salvation) is a free gift. They observed the Law of Moshe, as an outward sign of their devotion to YAHUWAH just as we should today; and will on into the New Earth. (Isa.66:22,23)
“And the disciples were first called ‘Christians’ at Antioch”, by Gentile unbelievers (Acts 11:26). The Nazarenes were not ‘Christians’, which believe that “the law has been nailed to the cross.”

‘Christian’ was a name the apostles were called by a rival Hellenistic, anti-law, sect. These were probably the same people who plotted to kill the apostle Shaul (Paul), in Acts 9:29; whose descendants we think of as the ‘Christians’ of today. This anti-law religion would later rise to worldwide power and dominance; and, is now known as the Roman Catholic Church, assimilating or snuffing out the Nazarenes and all other forms of the original faith.
However, even though they prevailed numerically and militarily; ‘Christianity’ was, by no means, the original faith of the disciples (apostles)!

‘Christian’ historians, like Epiphanius and M. Simon, even considered the Nazarenes to be a separate (and despised) faith; at least up until the fourth century, when they were finally exterminated by the Roman Emperor, Constantine I; who, also became the first Papa, or ‘Pope’, of the Roman Catholic Church in 326 CE/AD. Satan set up this system, called ‘Christianity’, under the old guise known as Mithraism, giving it its seat, power, and great authority (Rev.20:1, 2; 12:7-9 & 13:2-4, 8, 9).

The apostles were of the Nazarene ‘sect,’ and not ‘Christians.’ These two are no-where near being synonymous. This next reference tells us that YAHUSHUA, was a “Nazarene” Yahudite; raised in Nazareth; therefore, His followers (taught-ones) were also Nazarene Yahudim. “He (YAHUSHUA) shall be called a Nazarene” (Matt. 2:23).
Further, the disciples did their works…“in the Name of YAHUSHUA ha’Mashi’ach, ha’ Natsari” (Acts 4:10). YAHUSHUA is the Messiah’s TRUE Name! Not the Hellenized name, Jesus. The Messiah spoke HIS name in Hebrew.

“And when we had all fallen to the ground, I heard a voice speaking to me, and saying in the Hebrew language, ‘Sha’ul, Sha’ul, why do you persecute Me? It is hard for you to kick against the prods. “And I said, ‘Who are You, Master?’ And He said, ‘I am YAHUSHUA, whom you persecute. (Acts 26: 14-15)
Acts 24:5 we see the priesthood labelling the apostle Sha’ul (Paul) not of being a ‘Christian’; but, “….. a ringleader of the Nazarene sect.”

“For having found this man a plague, who stirs up dissension among all the Yehudim throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Natsarenes.”

He does not respond by saying he is a ‘Christian;’ or even admitting that he is a part of any “sect.” Rather, he argues that he is a “true Israelite,” implying that the priests are the apostate ones:
“According to the Way which they say is a sect, so, I worship the Ancestral One; believing all things that are written in the Torah and in the Prophets!”(Acts 24:14).

When the Yehudim, at Rome, asked Sha’ul to speak to them about his Israelite belief, they told him:
“For indeed concerning this sect, it is known to us that it is spoken against everywhere.” (Acts 28:22)

For many years, “Christianity’ has taught that Mashi’ach came to “do away with the Jews,” and to “nail the Torah to the Cross.” Therefore, the average ‘Christian’ has a difficult time understanding that the original Nazarene Yisra’el (Israeli) sect was not a separate faith, at all; and, Nazarene (Yisra’el) Israel was a part of the nation of Israel that believed in the Nazarene Mashiach.

Now, if the apostles (disciples) called themselves Nazarenes, while the Hellenized Jews called them ‘Christians,’ would that make the two terms synonymous? Or, were the Nazarene Israelites and the ‘Christians’, in fact, two separate groups? Yes they were most definitely separate.

Also, according to standard ‘Christian’ theology; all one must do is “call upon the name of ‘Jesus;’ to be “saved.” Most ‘Christians’ profess no requirement of Torah / Law observance / obedience, because they believe ‘Jesus’ was sent to replace the ‘Yahudim (Jews)’ with Gentile ‘Christians’ and to “nail the Torah to the Cross.” But, if this is true, that all one must do to be a follower of the Mashiach is to call upon His Name; then, why does John tell us that a man casting out demons in His Name was not following Him; since he was using the true Name (YAHUWAH)? Could it be that there is more to being a true follower of Mashiach, than simply “calling on His Name, and believing on Him;” in a Greek, Platonic, philosophical sense? Check it out, for yourself!

The Western Gentile ‘church’ bases “faith” on the idea that all that is required to be “saved” is to “believe on the Messiah;” and the Nazarenes would agree, totally, with that; but, the only difference between them is their definition of what constitutes “belief.”
Greek Platonic philosophy tells us that if we merely “think” a thing is true, then we believe it is true. Then, if you think ‘Jesus’ is the Messiah; you “believe” He is the Messiah, and this mere “thought-belief” will, somehow, “save” you! I don’t think so.

Then, notice what this says: Platonized Greek philosophy tells us that as long as we think ‘Jesus’ is the Messiah, then, there are no rules of conduct to live by. This means we can indulge in idol worship, flout His Commandments; and do whatever we feel like; and, as long as we profess a non-specific ‘Christian’ love, nothing else matters.

Just like the apostate teaching, Once Saved Always Saved. This doctrine is taught in many denominations. Heresy at this level, has thousands believing, as long as they do the altar call, go to church on Sun-day, then they can do whatever they like. They have eaten a type of wormwood, called Greek philosophy.

In contrast, true Israelite or Hebrew understands that if one’s “belief” does not lead to right conduct; then one’s “belief” is not truly complete; and therefore, one does not truly believe. Hebraic understanding of faith is believing and obeying. Therefore, true belief requires us to demonstrate our belief in YAHUWAH by obeying His Commands; and, it is this obedience, to His Commands, that shows our faith in Him, just as actions speak louder than words. This confuses most ‘Christians’, because their theology teaches that ‘Jesus’ came to “nail the Torah / Law to the Cross;” and, if the Law is nailed to the Cross, then there would be no more Commandments for believers to follow/obey.
Not only is this type of ideology dangerous but it goes against the written word of YAHUWAH. We find the following in Revelation 14:12:
“Here is the endurance of the set-apart (saints) ones, here are those guarding the commands of Elohim and the belief of YAHUSHUA.” (Also, see Rev. 12:17)

These set-apart ones do two things. They keep the Commands of Elohim and they have the testimony (belief) of YAHUSHUA. Notice they do not have one without the other? They have taken up their staff following the Messiah, YAHUSHUA. They walk as He walked by keeping (guarding, observing) the Torah.

Did YAHUSHUA really come to abolish the Law, as claimed, by most of ‘Christianity’? Well, the answer is: This type of Lawlessness is a myth that has perpetuated itself over the centuries; kept alive by wishful thinking and a failure to understand certain key Hebrew words.

Now you know that the 1st believers, did not call themselves Christians but were followers of YAHUSHUA Ha Mashiach, Nazarene sect, sect of Natsarim, meaning branches/watchmen. Read Jer.31

YES! Torah – Pursuant Christianity is possible!

Imagine a Christianity that fully embraces the Torah, minimizes the influence of Greek philosophy, and dynamically engages with contemporary culture. This vision reconnects with the Jewish roots of the faith while understanding the insights of progressive revelation and the historical development of the Church. By revisiting the teachings of Yeshua (Jesus) and the early Jewish context of the faith, we reveal a form of Christianity that honors its foundations and remains relevant today.

Greek philosophical ideas significantly shaped early Christian theology. Concepts like the Logos, the nature of the soul, and the Trinity drew heavily from Greek thought. Early Christian theologians, such as John the Apostle, used the term “Logos” to describe Jesus as the divine Word (John 1:1-3). The Council of Nicaea (325 CE) employed the term “homoousios” to affirm that Jesus and the Father share the same divine essence, a concept rooted in Platonic philosophy. Philosophers like Plato and Aristotle influenced the development of doctrines such as the immortality of the soul and the hierarchy of being. Augustine and Aquinas integrated these ideas into Christian theology and shaped beliefs about salvation, the nature of God, and ethical living.

To create a Christianity committed to the Torah while minimizing Greek influences, we must embrace the Written Torah and oral traditions that align with it. We must reject those that contradict it. Yeshua emphasized the Sabbath as a day of rest and worship (Mark 2:27). This vision honors the Sabbath from Friday evening to Saturday evening, free from the burdensome regulations criticized by Yeshua (Matthew 12:1-8). We celebrate biblical festivals like Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot (Leviticus 23), align with Torah commandments, and acknowledge their fulfillment in Yeshua’s life. We observe kosher dietary laws as outlined in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, and maintain holiness and separation, as intended in the Torah. Yeshua stressed the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). These principles should be prioritized in personal and communal life. We follow the commandment to love one’s neighbor as oneself (Leviticus 19:18), which Yeshua called the second greatest commandment (Matthew 22:39).

Understanding the evolution of the Hebrew text and the influences on the Torah provides a nuanced perspective on religious development. The earliest form of Hebrew writing, known as Paleo-Hebrew, was pictographic. It evolved from ancient Semitic languages influenced by the linguistic context of the time. Moses, according to the biblical narrative, was raised in Egypt. The Torah reflects certain Egyptian legal and cultural elements. The Epic of Gilgamesh, a Mesopotamian epic, contains flood narratives similar to those in Genesis. These parallels suggest that the Torah drew from or was influenced by Mesopotamian literature. The Code of Hammurabi and Hittite laws show notable similarities to the legal sections of the Torah. This indicates that the Torah’s legal material was influenced by other ancient Near Eastern traditions. After the Babylonian exile, Aramaic became the lingua franca. Portions of the Hebrew Bible incorporate Aramaic expressions and concepts, reflecting the post-exilic period’s linguistic and cultural context. The Oral Torah began as oral traditions and teachings that complemented the Written Torah. These traditions were eventually codified in texts such as the Mishnah and Talmud. Rabbinic scholars expanded on the Torah through Midrash, commentaries, and legal rulings. They applied the Torah’s principles to changing circumstances and new contexts.

The early Christian church emerged within the Roman Empire, a diverse cultural and linguistic milieu where Greek and Latin became prominent. Early Church Fathers like Justin Martyr and Origen used Greek philosophical concepts to explain Christian doctrines. As Christianity spread in the Western Roman Empire, Latin became the dominant language. This influenced theological and liturgical development. Eastern Orthodoxy maintained Greek as its liturgical language and preserved Greek theological traditions. Western Christianity (Roman Catholicism) embraced Latin, leading to a distinct Western tradition. Following the fall of the Roman Empire, Europe entered a period of social and political turmoil. The Church became a stabilizing force and preserved knowledge and culture. Monastic communities preserved biblical manuscripts and classical texts. They became centers of learning and spiritual practice. The Church incorporated local customs and traditions, such as pagan festivals, which were Christianized (e.g., Christmas and Easter). Celtic Christianity developed unique practices and liturgies, blending Christian and local Celtic traditions. Eastern Orthodoxy continued its traditions in the Byzantine Empire and influenced Slavic cultures through missionary work.

The High Middle Ages consolidated the Roman Catholic Church’s power and influence. Scholasticism became the dominant intellectual movement. Theologians like Thomas Aquinas integrated Aristotelian philosophy with Christian theology and systematized doctrine. Military campaigns like the Crusades aimed at reclaiming the Holy Land and influenced Christian thought and practice. Despite political pressures, Eastern Orthodoxy maintained its theological and liturgical distinctiveness. Syriac Christianity preserved ancient traditions and engaged with Islamic culture, influencing Christian theology in the Middle East. The Protestant Reformation challenged the authority of the Roman Catholic Church. This led to significant theological and liturgical changes. The Reformation emphasized the authority of the Bible over Church tradition (Sola Scriptura). It promoted personal faith and direct access to the Scriptures. Anglicanism blended Reformation principles with traditional liturgical practices. Anabaptists emphasized adult baptism and a simple, community-focused faith practice.

Today, our vision of Christianity recognizes the dynamic nature of divine revelation. It allows for adapting and integrating cultural elements while staying true to foundational principles. By embracing a progressive revelation approach, the Church can effectively engage with contemporary society, honor its Hebraic roots, and incorporate valuable insights from global Christian traditions. We utilize contemporary language and media to communicate the gospel effectively. This includes digital platforms, social media, and multimedia presentations. We adapt worship styles, music, and community practices to reflect contemporary cultural contexts while maintaining core theological principles. We emphasize the Torah and Hebraic context of Yeshua’s teachings. This involves observing the Sabbath, celebrating biblical festivals, and following kosher dietary laws. We prioritize justice, mercy, and love for one’s neighbor as central tenets of faith and practice. We learn from and integrate practices from diverse Christian traditions around the world. This includes the communal focus of African Christianity, the meditative practices of Eastern Christianity, and the evangelical zeal of Latin American Christianity. We enrich understanding and practice without compromising core beliefs.

This approach honors the rich history of Christian development while emphasizing the unchanging truths of the Torah and the teachings of Yeshua. The contemporary Church can remain relevant and faithful, effectively communicating its message in a diverse and ever-changing world. Paul wrote, “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some” (1 Corinthians 9:22). Yeshua’s command to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20) underscores the mission to adapt and engage while staying true to foundational truths. Emphasizing the fulfillment of the Torah in Yeshua’s teachings (Matthew 5:17-19) and understanding the Word becoming flesh (John 1:14) guide this vision. Recognizing the global nature of the Church, as depicted in Acts 17:26 and Revelation 7:9, enriches this journey towards a vibrant, Torah-observant Christianity that honors its roots and embraces its future.