Abstract
AbstractThe question of the relationship between “Judaism” and “Christianity” in the Acts of the Apostles has been marked by two contradictory interpretive traditions. One tradition emphasizes conflict and rupture, whereas the other sees continuity and a positive treatment of Judaism. These interpretive traditions both find significant textual support from Acts. There is an internal tension within Luke’s characterization of Paul that does not fit neatly into easy dichotomies and is representative of Luke’s broader two-volume work. The present author argues that the significance of God’s history within Israel centers upon Paul’s central conviction that Israel’s Davidic Messiah, resurrected and enthroned at God’s right hand, is the singular dispenser of salvation for Israel and the pagan nations. This messianic conviction results in a re-evaluation (not rejection) of Israel’s primary identity markers that will only be embraced if one grants Paul’s claim that the hope of Israel is identified with Jesus the resurrected Messiah.
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