Faith without religion.
Israel and Judah: Historical Divisions, Theological Evolution
In a recent teaching session, we explored the historical and theological nuances between the ancient kingdoms of Israel and Judah, and how these distinctions have evolved over time. The Children of Israel, originally a united kingdom under David and Solomon, split into two after Solomon’s death. The southern kingdom, Judah, included the tribes of Benjamin and Judah with Jerusalem as its capital, while the northern kingdom, Israel, comprised the remaining ten tribes with Samaria as its capital. This division set the stage for significant historical events, including the Assyrian conquest of Israel in 722 B.C. and the Babylonian conquest of Judah in 586 B.C.
Fast forward to the New Testament era, and we find that the concept of salvation has evolved. In Ephesians 2:5-7, Paul speaks of being “quickened together with Christ” and saved by grace, emphasizing that salvation is a gift from God, not a result of our works. This salvation is not static but unfolds across “ages to come,” suggesting a dynamic, ongoing experience of God’s grace.
The teaching also delved into the idea of “good works,” which are not a means to earn salvation but a natural outcome of being God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus. These works of love are the fruit of a transformed heart, reflecting the internal change wrought by faith and the Holy Spirit.
Ultimately, the session underscored the purpose of human creation in God’s image: to love God and others, fulfilling our existence’s ultimate purpose through the transformative power of faith and grace.
