FreeInChrist
Active Member
You don't see any value whatsoever for the Cross or for Pentecost?
I never said that. The bible was put together fairly in a chronological manner, as much as we actually know. When Jesus was initially sent for the lost sheep of Israel, and the crucifixion took place He established a new covent with his blood.. a necessary one because prior to that the blood from animals did not sustain the atonement for sin and to purify individuals and the community.
According to the accounts in the Book of Acts they primarily mention Jewish attendees at Pentecost, with no specific numbers given for non-Jews. While some Gentiles may have been present, however the focus was on the Jewish converts who received the Holy Spirit during this event.
Ai says
Non-Jewish Presence
- Jews and Proselytes: The attendees were mainly Jews and proselytes (Gentiles who converted to Judaism). The Book of Acts mentions that devout men from various nations were present, but it does not specify the exact number of non-Jews.
- Gentile Believers: While the focus was on Jewish converts, some scholars suggest that there may have been a few Gentiles present, but they were not the primary audience. The majority of the 3,000 converts recorded were likely Jewish.
Pentecost marking the beginning of this outreach, as the Holy Spirit was poured out on both Jews and Gentiles, was signifying the inclusion of all nations in the Christian faith.
So important yes, but again to the Jew first and eventually to the Gentiles and others because our story starts after these things.
Are you saying that the predestined you mention here was decided before time? To me it is that is Whoever believes in Christ is to be confirmed to Christ's Image, only if they have the faith and said yes to the invitation. That this is all part of the Heavenly Fathers initial plans and blueprints as he set up the world from beginning to end. For there always will be those who say no.Whoever believes in Christ is predestined to be confirmed to Christ's Image. They are the predestined ones.
I never cease to be amazed at how God vocationally elects people to spread the faith. Who would have thought that scattered Greek-speaking Jews, with their Greek LXX OT, would take on a major role in the spread of Christianity across Europe when they came to faith in Christ. Keep the faith.