Biblical Research & Education Resources

 Richard Blaine Robison, M.A., M.R.E.

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Bible Insights

Besekh (New Testament)

So then you are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the holy ones, and of the household of God, being built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Messiah Yeshua himself being the chief cornerstone.” (Eph 2:19-20 HNV)

About this Section

This section of the website provides exegetical commentary on portions of the New Testament or Besekh and is especially devoted to exploring the Jewish roots of the Besekh and the Christian faith. See my article My Journey into Jewish Roots. Little recognized by Christians is that the Besekh is a Jewish book, written by Jews, largely about Jews, and meant for both Jews and Gentiles. Recognizing the inherent Hebraic nature of the apostolic writings will assure a greater understanding of Scripture.

Articles

The Defamation Against Zacchaeus

Abstract: For centuries Bible expositors have treated Zacchaeus (Heb. Zakkai) as a virtual criminal, guilty of all manner of offenses including theft, fraud, extortion, and bribery. Zakkai was certainly guilty in the court of public opinion, but a close examination of the evidence yields a very different picture. (9 pages)

Did Yeshua Cancel Torah Food Laws?

Abstract: Christians typically assume that Yeshua canceled the Torah rules concerning "unclean" animals. The text shows that the actual issue was eating with unwashed hands, not the menu. (7 pages)

Eucharist or Messianic Passover?

Abstract: Christians have been taught for centuries that Yeshua inaugurated an entirely new ritual that replaced the Jewish Passover. But, the biblical evidence tells a very different story. (11 pages)

Introduction to the Gospels

Abstract: This article provides an overview of each of the four Gospels, explaining background of the authors, date of writing, the purpose and message, and unique content. Consideration of this information is valuable in interpretation of the Gospel material. (19 pages)

The Jewish New Testament

Abstract: This article argues that the New Testament is essentially Jewish, and does not reflect Christianity as it developed under the church fathers. Only by understanding the Jewish culture, character and composition of the New Testament can the apostolic writings be properly understood and interpreted. (10 pages)

Mary Magdalene

Abstract: This article joins my series on godly Bible personalities who have been maligned by Christian interpreters across the centuries. Contrary to wide-spread Christian belief, Mary ("Miriam") was not a rescued social derelict, but a good woman set free to serve Yeshua as a faithful disciple. (6 pages)

The Nativity Story (Scripture Text)

Abstract: This is the birth narrative of Yeshua the Messiah from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke (NIV), placed in chronological order and without commentary. (7 pages)

Remember the Sabbath

Abstract: Many Christians believe that Yeshua created the Lord's Day as a substitute for the Jewish Sabbath and that the apostles canceled observance of the seventh day rest. What does Scripture actually say, and how does God intend for his people to honor Him in the use of time? (6 pages)

The So-Called Synoptic Problem

Abstract: Matthew, Mark and Luke are called the Synoptic Gospels because they contain considerable material in common, but there are also striking differences. Scholars have suggested various solutions to explain this phenomenon. Which one is right? (3 pages)

Under the Law

Abstract: Many Christians, aided by Gentile Bible versions, have misinterpreted Paul's phrase "under Law" to effectively nullify obedience to God's commandments. The phrase actually refers to the misuse of Law as an oppressive system. (7 pages)

What is a Christian?

Abstract: The definition of the name "Christian" has been the subject of debate for centuries, since it was coined in Antioch (Acts 11:26). Most Bible scholars contend that the name refers to Gentile followers of Yeshua. But, is that assumption accurate? This article explores the Jewish context for the origin of the name and offers some surprising analysis. (10 pages)

Commentary

Abstract: All commentary on Scripture incorporates verse-by-verse exegesis, with explanation of word meaning and the cultural context, interpretation of the significance of the text, and application to life.

The Gospel of Matthew

Matthew 1

Sermon on the Mount

Matthew 5  |  6  |  7

 

Discussion-Study Questions

Olivet Discourse

Matthew 24 |  25

Discussion-Study Questions

The Gospel of Mark

Mark 1 (with links to all chapters; in process)

The Gospel of Luke ~ Nativity

Luke 1:11-80  |  2:1-20

Letter to the Romans

Romans 1 (with links to all chapters)

Letter to the Corinthians

1 Corinthians 14  |  15

Letter to the Thessalonians

2 Thessalonians 2

Visions of John

Revelation 1 (with links to all chapters)

Resources

Abbreviations of Bible Versions

These are standard abbreviations used in scholarly works. Most Bible versions can be accessed on the Internet.

Bible Question and Answer

Users can submit questions on the Bible to the author for definitive answers.

Bible Study Library

Click on this link for my recommended list of books that help you better understand Scripture.

Greek Texts and Translation

The article explains the basic approaches to translation reflected in major Bible versions and the background of the various New Testament Greek texts.

A Short Guide to Greek Grammar

The article explains the meaning of grammatical abbreviations used in biblical commentary, as well as a pronunciation guide for New Testament Greek.

 

 

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