Lecture Notes: Understanding the Gospel and Pagan Traditions

Introduction

• The lecture explores the influence of pagan sun god worship originating in Babylon.
• Israel was chosen to be a kingdom of priests for God.
• Israel invented its own religion, contradicting the commandments.
• Emphasis on Yeshua, the promised Messiah.

Personal Journey - Michael Rood

• Started at Calvary Baptist in Greenville, Michigan.
• Early exposure to the Bible and Christian teachings.
• Family religious background: Jewish roots, great ancestors in Holland.
• Grew up in a "Gentile church," memorized scripture as a teen.
• Boredom with traditional church services.

Life-Changing Experiences

• Encounter with drafted friends and war influences at 17.
• Profound realization: "Thy word is truth."
• Immersed in the Bible, discovering the "greatest story never told."
• Realization about the Acts of the Apostles and living the teachings with miracles.
• Disillusionment with traditional church practices.

Journey into Truth and Understanding

• Enlisted in the Marine Corps; fate changed by commandant's decision.
• Decades-long search for truth, leading to residency in Israel.

The Gospel of the Kingdom

• Jesus and his disciples preached the gospel in Galilee before crucifixion.
• The gospel they taught wasn't about crucifixion/resurrection.
• Many Christian traditions have roots in non-biblical stories.
  • Example: Nativity scene comparisons with "Ben-Hur."

Critique of Christian Traditions

• Halloween's pagan roots and Christian adaptations.
• Criticism of Good Friday and Easter traditions—contradiction with biblical timing.
• Pagan origins of December 25th as a significant date.

Authenticity of Jesus as the Messiah

• Jesus' teachings and adherence to Moses' commandments.
• Differentiating true prophets by following traditional commandments.
• Jesus verified by miracles and teachings aligning with Moses.

Misinterpretations and Traditions

• Apostles’ Creed and its lack of emphasis on Jesus' teachings.
• Jesus' ministry focused on the "gospel of the kingdom."
  • Preaching, teaching, healing were key components.

Conclusion

• Emphasizes the need to adhere strictly to God's commandments.
• Criticizes man-made religious adaptations and distortions.
• Encourages exploration of Jesus’ true teachings and their application today.
• Invitation to learn more about Jesus' life and teachings in Israel.

This lecture emphasizes the importance of understanding the original gospel of Jesus and challenges the traditional Christian interpretations and adaptations that have pagan origins.