03-30-2010, 01:44 PM
Quote:Likewise, if you do believe that God Himself is the One Who grafts Gentiles to the Jewish olive tree, how do you explain that Jesus would forbid his disciples to take his gospel to the Gentiles? (Mat. 10:5,6)
Shlama, Ben.
It seems that prohibition was a temporary command for expediency on their first mission trip. In the same passage, Jesus hints that this will eventually result in them going before kings and governors and result in them being witnesses to Gentiles (Matt. 10:18).
Also, it can't be an eternal command because Jesus himself witnessed to Gentiles, such as the Samaritan woman at the well.
In addition, Acts 1:8 makes it clear that the disciples are expected to expand beyond the borders of Israel.
This brings to mind Isaiah 49:6, as well:
Quote:"It is too small a thing for you to be my servant
to restore the tribes of Jacob
and bring back those of Israel I have kept.
I will also make you a light for the Gentiles,
that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth."
bar Sinko