Parasha Minute: Genesis / BreisheetSampel

"Justified through Yeshua"

How shall we be saved? That’s the question put to Sha’ul (Paul) by both Jews and Gentiles, or those who were not Jewish by birth. Paul’s teachings were under fire for being so radical. Here was a people who had performed physical rituals in the temple and followed strict instructions designed to provide sanctification and cleansing. But Paul preached the idea of one who is righteous; and salvation as a free gift offered to all who would receive it. Many new believers were coming under persecution.

Paul was raised a Torah-observant Jew, and even taught as a rabbi. Knowing Paul’s background helps us to better understand his writings…where he often referred to teachings in the Torah and the prophets. The book of Romans gives us a side-by-side comparison of Jewish tradition and the new covenant in Yeshua (Jesus). Paul’s defense begins in comparing Adam – the first man, and Yeshua. Just as sin and death came to all through the first man Adam, only one righteous man, Yeshua, can bring the gift of salvation to all. Points to Ponder: How are we saved? How clearly do you understand being set right – not by works, but by faith in Yeshua?