Lecture Notes: Understanding Jewish Eschatology and Temple Studies

Introduction

• Speaker: Host and guest, Joe
• Context: Discussion on Jewish eschatology and temple studies, a field Joe has studied for 44 years.
• Event: Upcoming teachings at a Spanish congregation on Jewish eschatology.

Key Concepts

Temple Studies and the Bible

• Joe emphasizes understanding the temple to better comprehend the Bible.
• Studying the temple increases belief in Yeshua.

Jewish vs Christian Eschatology

• Jewish Eschatology: Focuses on understanding scriptures from a Jewish perspective, including environment and context.
• Christian Eschatology: Often focuses on identifying the Antichrist and the concept of the Rapture (pre-trib, mid-trib, post-trib).
• Main Difference: Jewish eschatology uses texts from the Tanakh (Old Testament) whereas Christian eschatology often relies on New Testament.

Temple Services and Symbolism

• Rosh Hashanah (Rosh Ha-Shanah): Known as the Jewish New Year, involves temple services.
• Yom Teruah: Also known as Day of Trumpets, includes ceremonial blowing of the shofar (ram's horn).
• Shofar Blasts:
  • Symbolize enthronement of God, remembrance, and resurrection.
  • 100 blasts divided into three sections: Malchuyot (Kingship), Zichronot (Remembrances), Shofarot (Trumpets).

Theological Implications

• Biblical references to trumpets and eschatology include New Testament citations but originate from Jewish traditions.
• Jewish Texts: References like the Machzor and the Talmud provide deeper insight into practices such as the blowing of the shofar.

Influences of Jewish Thought on the New Testament

• Paul’s Writings: Uses Jewish eschatology references; proves resurrection using Torah and prophets.
• Resurrection: Linked with sounding of the shofar, a concept rooted in Jewish tradition.
• Yeshua’s Teachings: Often in the language and context of Jewish eschatology.

Practical Application

• Recommendation: Understand Jewish festivals and services to comprehend New Testament teachings fully.
• Resources:
  • Books such as "The High Holidays: A Commentary on the Prayerbook of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur" by Hayim Herman Kieval.
  • Jewish prayer books (Machzor) and commentaries provide context and deeper understanding.

Conclusion

• Challenges: Adapting a Western mindset to understand Eastern, Jewish theological perspectives.
• Encouragement: Study Jewish texts and temple practices to gain a comprehensive understanding of biblical eschatology.
• Upcoming Teaching: Live events will further explain these concepts with translation for broader accessibility.

Additional Insights

• Personal Growth: Host shares personal journey and transformation through studying temple services.
• Educational Impact: Understanding temple services and Jewish eschatology deepens faith and biblical comprehension.