Throughout the Old and New Testament, various religious groups emerged within Jewish culture.

 

In Old Testament times, God established a group called the Nazarites, people who lived a unique lifestyle and reminded Israel to remain set apart for God. Nazarite practices continued into New Testament times.

 

In Jesus' day, there were varying philosophies within the Jewish faith.  While some Jews embraced the Roman rulers, others resisted with violence.  And whereas some Jewish believers lived a simple, isolated lifestyle, others enjoyed a lifestyle of wealth and influence.  As Jewish culture grew, so did disagreements about the proper way to interpret and apply the Text.  By Jesus' day, four predominant religious philosophies had emerged: Essenes, Zealots, Pharisees, and Sadducees. With radically differing beliefs, these movements often clashed.

 

During his ministry, Jesus likely interacted with them all, touching the hearts of some, and sparking violent hatred among others.

 

Do we consider it more important to be part of a Religious Group verses being a person who is set apart (a Nazarite) and a disciple of Christ -- a CHRISTIAN?

 

Prayer
Heavenly Father – help me always to remember that it is most important that I am a follower of you,  rather than a “Label” that I wear or a membership that I maintain!  Amen