Lección 2

Understanding the Hermeneutics of the Great Commission

The Importance of Genesis 12 in Biblical Context

• The discussion begins with a focus on understanding the general theme of the Bible, particularly how it informs scripture reading and preaching.

• Genesis 12:1-3 is read, where God commands Abraham to leave his homeland and promises to make him a great nation, bless him, and that all families on earth will be blessed through him.

• Key promises made by God include: becoming a great nation, personal blessings for Abraham, and blessings for others through Abraham's lineage.

• The significance of God's promise is highlighted; despite the world's chaos at that time, God chose to bless nations through Abraham and his descendants.

• The ultimate fulfillment of this promise is identified as Jesus Christ, referred to as the seed of Abraham in Galatians 3:16.

The Mosaic Covenant and Its Implications

• Transitioning to Exodus 19:4-6, God reminds Israel of their redemption from Egypt and establishes them as His treasured possession among all nations.

• The Mosaic covenant is described as conditional; it requires Israel to obey God's voice and keep His covenant in exchange for being His special treasure.

• Israel's role is emphasized as a kingdom of priests tasked with mediating between God and other nations while showcasing God's holiness.

• This responsibility includes adhering to commandments that set Israel apart from other peoples, aiming for them to be a holy nation dedicated to God.

• The concept of centripetal versus centrifugal mission work is introduced; Israel was meant to draw other nations towards themselves (and thus towards God).

Examples of Gentile Conversion in the Old Testament

• Historical examples are provided where Gentiles approached or converted to worshiping Yahweh through interactions with Israel.

• Ruth’s declaration ("Your people will be my people") exemplifies this conversion process as she aligns herself with Naomi's faith.

• Another example includes the Queen of Sheba visiting Solomon after hearing about his wisdom and relationship with God.

Understanding the Efficacy of God's Strategy

The Problem with the Old Covenant

• The effectiveness of God's strategy is questioned, particularly regarding the shortcomings of the Old Covenant and its inability to lead to widespread obedience among the Israelites.

• Despite being commanded to follow the Ten Commandments, the Israelites often longed for foreign gods and failed to eliminate pagan influences as instructed by God.

• A significant issue was that God had not given them a heart to obey; they lacked His Spirit dwelling within them, which contributed to their disobedience.

Moses' Intercession and God's Glory

• The narrative highlights a moment in Exodus 32 where Moses intercedes for Israel after they create a golden calf, emphasizing God's concern for His glory among nations.

• Moses argues against God's anger by pointing out how it would reflect poorly on God’s reputation among Egyptians if He destroyed His people after liberating them from slavery.

Divine Unchangeability and Testing Commitment

• It is noted that God does not change His mind like humans do; Numbers 23:19 illustrates this point about divine consistency and perfection in knowledge.

• The discussion suggests that God was testing Moses’ commitment towards his people during this incident.

God's Desire for Global Recognition

• Psalms 67 reflects God's desire for mercy upon Israel so that His ways may be known across all nations, indicating a broader mission beyond Israel alone.

• Rahab's belief in Israel's God showcases how knowledge of God's deeds can lead others to faith, reinforcing the idea of being blessed to bless others.

The Shift in Understanding After Christ

• There is an emphasis on understanding Psalm 67 as part of a larger missional theme where blessings are intended for global recognition of God’s name.

• As discussions move into Isaiah chapter 2, it becomes clear that all nations will eventually seek knowledge from Israel about worshiping the one true God.

• This notion challenges early Jewish exclusivity regarding worship practices and highlights conflicts faced when Gentiles sought inclusion in worship.

Historical Context and Misunderstandings

• Early Jews struggled with accepting Gentiles into their religious fold due to historical possessiveness over their covenant relationship with God.