Services on Demand
Article
Indicators
Related links
- Cited by Google
- Similars in Google
Share
HTS Theological Studies
On-line version ISSN 2072-8050
Print version ISSN 0259-9422
Abstract
SCHEFFLER, Eben. (The Markan and Matthean) Jesus' appropriation and criticism of the Torah: the question of divorce. Herv. teol. stud. [online]. 2011, vol.67, n.1, pp.00-00. ISSN 2072-8050.
According to the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus functions as a Moses figure who, in the Sermon on the Mount, gave the new law of the kingdom of God. In this article it is argued that Jesus drew his ethic from his Jewish tradition, as manifested particularly in the Pentateuch. However, although being an inspiring source, to Jesus the Pentateuch (or scripture) was not an authority that could not be challenged or criticised. This is illustrated by focusing on the question of divorce (Mk 10:2-12; Mt 5:27-32; 19:3-12). It is argued that Jesus use of the Pentateuch was guided by an ethic of compassion. In view of Jesus stance, an uncritical use of the Bible (as manifested for example in many Christian circles) ironically contradicts the Bibles own message and nature.