Jesus, the Temple Veil, and the Eternal Gospel of Peace
The critical events at the crucifixion of Jesus, particularly the tearing of the temple veil, hold profound theological significance. The veil, which separated the Holy of Holies from the rest of the temple, symbolically represented the barrier between humanity and God. When Jesus died, this veil was torn in half, signifying a new, more intimate relationship between God and humanity.
Understanding the Significance of the Temple Veil
The tearing of the temple veil has often been misconstrued as an event that was widely known and recognized during the time of Jesus. However, it is crucial to note that the Old Testament was not compiled by God but by mortal men, who had their own interpretations and biases. This suggests that there could be discrepancies or omissions in the texts, as they were compiled by individuals rather than divine entities.
Jesus' Message and Its Intended Audience
Historical records indicate that Jesus explicitly stated that his message was intended for the Jews alone. His interactions with non-Jews, such as the Samaritan woman (see John 4), demonstrate a level of respect and inclusivity, though it was not unconditional. The dialogue with the woman at the well is often cited as a key example, highlighting Jesus' universal message of salvation.
Challenges in Interpreting Historical Events
There is no concrete historical documentation that the temple veil was torn during the crucifixion. Some legends suggest that the high priest tore his clothing to symbolize Jesus' innocence, but this was not a widely reported event. The concept of the tearing veil as a universal revelation did not emerge until the Christian era, adding complexity to our understanding of these events.
The Eternal Gospel of Blessing and Peace
According to the Bible, when God made the everlasting gospel promise to Abraham, He defined the "great everlasting nation" that would bless all nations as those who shared Abraham's faith. Genesis 12:3 states, 'I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.' This promise does not define a clear division between Jews and Gentiles, as the children of Israel were not a homogeneous group.
In the ancient times, the tribes of Israel were made up of a mixed group of people, and land division was not strictly based on lineage. Non-descendants often inherited land alongside descendants, and the tribe of Judah included sojourners and slaves. When the kingdom of Judah was established, it encompassed more than just the tribe of Judah. The point is that there was no fundamental difference between someone defined as a Jew or gentile. Being a citizen of Israel simply required agreement with the national purpose and the fulfillment of God's eternal gospel promise.
Conclusion
The division factor for God's faithful has always been their belief in the eternal gospel of blessing all nations with peace. There is no genetic, ethnic, or racial component to being one of God's faithful. As faithful disciples of Jesus, the focus should always be on fulfilling God's everlasting promise of peace and salvation for all humanity.