Navigating the Wake of Ann Coulter’s ‘Perfect’ Storm
By Gabriel Sanders
Right-wing pundit Ann Coulter ignited a firestorm last week, and she did it with a single word.
In an October 8 appearance on CNBC’s “The Big Idea” with host Donny Deutsch, the ever-provocative Coulter said that what Christians ultimately want is for Jews to be “perfected” into Christians.
“That,” she said, “is what Christianity is. We believe the Old Testament, but ours is more like Federal Express.”
“Wow,” an incredulous Deutsch replied, “you didn’t really say that, did you?”
Reactions from the Jewish world were swift. The Anti-Defamation League said Coulter’s comments were “a throwback to the centuries-old teaching of contempt for Jews and Judaism.” The American Jewish Committee called the remarks “hateful,” and the National Jewish Democratic Council launched an online petition calling on all the major television news networks to stop using her as a commentator.
The debate that ensued essentially recapitulated any of a number of episodes Coulter, a recreational offender, has provoked over the last decade: Her usual detractors called for her head; her traditional defenders dismissed the affair as just another left-wing witch hunt and a third group wrote (at length) about how they weren’t going to take Coulter’s bait anymore.
Largely absent from the discussion, however, was any real examination of her remarks’ theological significance. What exactly did Coulter mean by “perfection”? In voicing a desire for the conversion of the Jews, is she alone? And is the desire that Jews convert to Christianity by definition synonymous with antisemitism?
While Coulter’s choice of words is not much in vogue today, her language is far from new. The New Testament’s “Epistle to the Hebrews,” traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul, essentially argues that because Jesus offered a “superior” alternative to the Hebrew Bible’s angels, prophets and priests, Christianity represents a superior, indeed “perfected,” alternative to Judaism. “Having been perfected,” the text reads (Hebrews 5:9), “[Jesus] became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey him.”
The notion that God’s covenant with Christians came to replace his covenant with Jews — a concept known as supersessionism, or replacement theology — informed centuries of Christian thought. It was a central idea for both the early church fathers and the leaders of the Reformation. It was also embraced, and expanded upon, by the German Idealist philosophers of the late-18th and early-19th centuries.
In the decades after the Holocaust, however, as Christian denominations were forced to rethink the nature of Christian-Jewish ties, many reconsidered, and ultimately repudiated, the concept. In 1988, the Episcopal Church endorsed a new set of guidelines governing Christian-Jewish relations. Supersessionism’s repercussions, the guidelines read, had been “fateful.” Rather than being a “fossilized religion of legalism,” as the Judaism of Jesus’ time was long thought to be, the church’s revised position held that “Judaism in the time of Jesus was in but an early stage of its long life.”
But not all Christian denominations have followed the Episcopal Church’s lead.
“The larger, older denominations have either gone that way or are moving that way,” said Edith Blumhofer, director the Institute for the Study of Evangelicals at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Ill. “Where you find this other rhetoric is among independent radio ministers, televangelists and among some more conservative fundamentalist groups…. They don’t say it quite the way Coulter did in public all that much, but they believe that salvation comes only through Christ.”
But is belief in “perfection” or “completion” through Jesus tantamount to hostility to Jews?
Not at all, said Yaakov Ariel, a professor of religious studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
“A conservative, Jesus-oriented faith doesn’t mean, in and of itself, that people are anti-Jewish,” said Ariel, a specialist in Jewish-Evangelical ties. “Some of the more favorable attitudes toward Jews have developed in Evangelical circles, though perhaps in a way that makes some Jews uncomfortable.”
Coulter and some of her defenders, meanwhile, have argued that she has fallen victim to an unfair standard. Do not all communities ultimately want their guiding truth to become a truth shared by all? “I assume all vegans think the world would be better if everyone were a vegan,” Coulter said in a radio broadcast this week.
Asked if he thought Jews make truth claims of the sort posited by Coulter, Ariel hedged.
“The answer would be ‘yes’ and ‘no,’” he said. “On the one hand, Jews will tell you that non-Jews can be justified before God and reach eternal life just by fulfilling the Noahide laws. On the other hand, you can follow a Durkheimian understanding of religious communities. Emile Durkheim claimed that all religious communities ultimately worship themselves. There’s an element of this in the concept of the Chosen People.”
In a sense, Ariel said, Judaism, when faced with evangelism, suffers from its essential multiplicity.
“Here is Judaism,” he said, “a [numerically] vulnerable community with no one definition of what it means to be Jewish. It wants to live and let live and wants people to respect whatever faith it does or does not hold. It is then confronted by people who know exactly who they are and what they are and where they are going. This creates an uneasiness among Jews.”
And what of the argument, put forward by the ADL and others, that Coulter’s language and the thinking that undergirds it are what fueled centuries of anti-Jewish persecution?
“This is a step away from the demonization of the Jews because of the death of Christ,” Blumhofer said. “In some ways, it’s better.”
Ariel agreed.
“People who don’t care about Jews don’t care about their conversion,” he said. “Enemies of the Jews in the late-19th and early-20th centuries certainly did not try to convert them. The more you know about the Other, the better the ties. Relations between Jews and Evangelicals are better today than ever before.”
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your lame. stop writing to justify ugly views. You know damn well that she didnt meant it in a loving or care for the jews way. No matter how you spin it. religion is nothing but a base of beliefs. no one CAN EVER be right or be proven right. only delusional. Hate speech is hate speech no matter how you justify it. Cant wait till all you idiots are out in the cold. but be the way, I know you will all change you views and pretend you had it right all along. ...again...lame.
Coulter is an idiot. No explanation be needed. As for Judaism, it would be wise for its leaders to stear as clear as possible from Evengelical Christians. Any house built with them is built with mud. They wil turn on you....eventually, they will turn on you. If you want proof, just look at Ms Coluter's comment. Jews need to be "perfected".....disgusting woman. Let's be honest, she gets media time because she's an attractive, blonde-haired, white woman. If she were ugly, nobody would give a shekel for that woman.
It is heartwarming to hear rational voices concerning Ann's comments. She certainly DID intend for her comments to reflect a loving attitude toward Jews. She did NOT mean that Jews should be FORCIBLY converted, but rather that they, like everyone else, would be "blessed" by God, IF they chose to convert. Christianity, like Judaism, is a VOLUNTARY membership! (In spite of whatever grievances occurred in the past, MODERN Christianity holds that acceptance MUST be voluntary to be valid!) The "sting" from the use of the word "perfected" is lessened by the understanding that this speaks to ALL of us, not just Jews. The attainment of such "perfection" is in the NEXT life, not this one. No Christian believes that we ARE perfect, but that one day we will become "perfect" in the Christ. Christians welcome EVERYONE! Any specific comments directed at Jews are a result of the kinship that Christians feel toward God's Chosen people. God chose the Jews. Jesus IS a Jew. How can any Christian rationally justify any attitude other than a distant, familial connection?
It is heartwarming to hear rational voices concerning Ann's comments. She certainly DID intend for her comments to reflect a loving attitude toward Jews. She did NOT mean that Jews should be FORCIBLY converted, but rather that they, like everyone else, would be "blessed" by God, IF they chose to convert. Christianity, like Judaism, is a VOLUNTARY membership! (In spite of whatever grievances occurred in the past, MODERN Christianity holds that acceptance MUST be voluntary to be valid!) The "sting" from the use of the word "perfected" is lessened by the understanding that this speaks to ALL of us, not just Jews. The attainment of such "perfection" is in the NEXT life, not this one. No Christian believes that we ARE perfect, but that one day we will become "perfect" in the Christ. Christians welcome EVERYONE! Any specific comments directed at Jews are a result of the kinship that Christians feel toward God's Chosen people. God chose the Jews. Jesus IS a Jew. How can any Christian rationally justify any attitude other than a distant, familial connection?
Ann Coulter should convert to Judaism and learn how to be a decent person who has respect for all religions. She is a publicity-seeking jerk and ought to be ignored.
Al keyn n'kaveh l'cha haShem Elokeinu...
Al keyn n'kaveh l'cha haShem Elokeinu...
Coulter's comments on the CNBC show are more proof of the wisdom of the folk tale about the fellow who agreed to cross the river on the back of a poisonous turtle and was surprised when the turtle bit his passenger and killed him. Leaving aside other vile comments she's made in the past (see for example, her diatribes about the 9/11 widows who had the temerity to question the Bush administration), her statements on Donny Deutsch's program reveal the true nature of what evangelicals think of Jews. Just because Pat Robertson, Tom DeLay and their ilk support Israel doesn't mean that they think Jews should continue practicing their religion as they have for thousands of years. Wake up and smell the coffee, folks!
If Christianity is a "loving" religion, why does it only seek to perfect, or convert, or complete and "love" Jews? There does not seem to be any concerted effort for Christians to love and convert Muslims, Hindus, Buddists, Shintoists, Sikhs,etc.etc. -only Jews. Why? What is there about Judaism that make Christians so uniquely focused on it and uncomfortable? This question is all the more intriguing when you realize that Jesus,their saviour whom they worship as G-d, was himself a Jew! The continuing presence of Jews practicing Torah Judaism is an enanthema to Christianity because it contradicts the Doctrine of Supercessionism. This Doctrine simply states that since the Jews rejected Jesus, G-d rejected the Jews. Henceforth the Jews were to become a cursed people, hated and punished by G-d, destined to be homeless for ever and ever more-the proverbial "wandering Jew"-and the Christians who, by accepting Jesus, thereby became the "new chosen Jews". The standard option offered the original Jews by the "new Jews" for almost 2000 years was convert or be killed. Some choice! Since the re-establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, the Doctrine of Supercessionism is in very hot water indeed, to say the least.It appears that the original Jews are still G-d's Chosen and beloved People.( imagine- how odd of G-d /to choose- the Jews). This, my friends, is why Christians would love for all Jews to accept Jesus and convert to Christianity- and thereby become "perfected". Then they can truly say their Doctrine of Supercessionism is viable and correct, both theologically and historically. The continuing success and viability of Judaism is uncomfortable -like a bone sticking in the theological throat of Christianity and choking it- it can't swollow it, and it can't spit it out. And that is why the Jews are singled out for "perfection" by Christians. Thankfully, for now at least, they no longer seem intent on killing us.
There are two things about Coulter that scare me: (1) She believes what she says and (2) She doesn't believe what she says. I think everyone has it wrong. She only wants to make money selling her books. Provocative statements about Jews have the effect of anti-Semites wanting to buy her books because they like what she says, as well as Jews wanting to buy her books to refute her. Personally I think she is a brilliant Atheist business woman. Menschen, she is playing you like a violin.
That Ann Coulter is an idiot and a nut-job is beyond reasonable doubt; at her best, she is Stephen Colbert in drag, a parody of a right-wing demagogue, but at her worst, as here, she manages at one and the same time to be both hateful and stupid. Her comments are nonetheless instructive insofar as they demonstrate the difference between "anti-Judaism" and "anti-Semitism": she isn't anti-Semitic in the sense that she wishes Jewish PEOPLE harm; if anything, in her benighted way she loves Jewish people TOO MUCH, and wants to make them/us just like her. But she is anti-Jewish in that her remarks display an unmistakable contempt for the Jewish religion. It is ultimately impossible to respond to her remarks without descending into comparably contemptuous insults: that the New Testament isn't a completion of the Hebrew Bible, it's a misreading of it; that after something like 17 centuries of Christian persecution of Jews, culminating (one hopes) with the Holocaust, Christianity has no moral or historical basis to position itself above Judaism; that Christians claiming, as Coulter does, to be "perfected Jews" are in fact neither. These are comments I would never wish to make in the presence of my Christian friends (and, of course, "some of my best friends" are Christians...). But by the same token, when someone with the prominence, however dubious, of Ann Coulter begins to attack the theological sanctity of Judaism, one finds it difficult to remain silent. And that's precisely the danger her remarks pose: she doesn't threaten Judaism or Jewish people so much as she does the neutral public sphere on which American ecumenicism rests; there can be no ecumenicism, no neutral meeting ground between religions, no fellow-feeling in a conversation where one person holds the religion of the other in contempt. Her remarks as a Christian American ultimately serve to discredit and demean the concept of Christian love and the principles of American freedom. Once again, her words undermine the principles she ostensibly embraces. This is exactly what makes Stephen Colbert so funny--and, one suspects, what makes her so pathetic.
There is nothing theological about Coulter's statements. Flat out, she is a bigot and a hatemonger, playing to hatred in the country.
Ann Coulter; it still sounds like "Yuden Frei" espoused by Adolph Hitler
Reply to Marc Brukhes: In typical Liberal fashion, you initially visciously attack Coulter personally, and then proceed to outline, again in typical Liberal fashion, a touchy, feely idealistic, imaginary America where in the words of Rodney King , "everybody gets along".This scenario never was and never will be- until Moshiach comes. You have also failed to realize the true intent of Christian attempts to convert Jews. You should know that thoughtful Christians are threatened theologically by Judaism and are on the defensive when challenged theologically by Jews who are knowledgable about Jewish history and religion. Christians won't admit it publicly, but in their hearts, if they truly understand the shakey foundation on which Christianity rests;i.e. virgin birth, trinity second coming--they know that Christianity is a false religion. It's a case of -if you don't like the message of the competition,,try to get rid of the messenger. This, my friend, is the reason Coulter said what she said. She was only being an honest Christian. If you can't deal with the message of Judaism, try getting rid of the Jew. Thankfully ,today the other historic option -the stake- is no longer a popular option. Why don't you ask your Christian friends what they TRULY think of Coulter's opinions?
What's so shocking about what Coulter said? She was simply reaffirming the mainstream belief held by many if not most Christians that Christianity is Judaism perfected. If you're a Liberal-Left Jew, as typified by this papers editorial and reportorial slant, then, of course, you're offended. If like myself, you're not, then you understand Coulter was stating the traditional viewpoint of mainstream Christianity. Lighten up!
For the first few decades, the early so called Christians were nothing more than Jews who though the Messianic Age had begun. When they figured out that they were wrong, they, reverted back to idolatry, and over the next few hundred years made up myths, saints, pope, statues, icons, etc. This is perfection? Hah!
I agree with the concept that the more we care/know about each other the more acceptable we become to each other. I also believe Jesus would be clapping his hands and nodding his head as we humans attempt to love one another.
"A Simple Yid" is quick to diagnose my previous comments on this article to a "touchy, feely idealistic, imaginary" view of America. I would argue, to the extent that any reply is entitled or constructive at all, that my perspective is basically the same as the First Amendment, the reiterated views of the founding fathers, and the Supreme Court in several consistent decisions, all of which posit a public sphere in which people are allowed to live their lives without having to justify their beliefs before the majority religion. However much he may wish to scoff, these are institutions that have better served Jews and other Americans in real historical terms than anyone's messianic aspirations: Jewish, Christian, or otherwise. Speaking for myself, I don't think that the simple proposition that people show respect for one another's beliefs in public is particularly idealistic, "touchy-feely," or even political, whether liberal or otherwise. I think it's a practical, ethical way of making a way in the world. "A Simple Yid," by contrast, falls into precisely the trap that Coulter sets, and which I had cautioned against: he responds to one set of insults with another, pointing to the irrationalities of the Christian religion. Well, any religion is going to appear irrational from the outside--I wouldn't advocate shokling the lulav and esrog, avoiding shatnez, or shlogn kapoyres as rational alternatives to Virgin Birth or the trinity--because religion isn't premised on logic, it's premised on faith and belief. It's for that reason why I have no desire to engage my Christian friends, or any of my non-Jewish friends, in a theological debate; such an argument would damage our friendship, and accomplish nothing on behalf of either religion. My non-Jewish friends agree with me on this point, which is the pre-condition that makes our friendship possible. We have more important things to talk about than what Ann Coulter believes. On most days I also have more important things to do than respond to the comments of "A Simple Yid," but I guess you caught me on a bad night--so much the worse for all of us. Kol tuv un zayt gezint!
An orthodox rabbinical response (quoted from an actual conversation): "Ann Coulter says Jews need to be perfected" "She's right" "She says they need to be perfected through Christianity" "She's wrong."
For the first few decades, the early so called Christians were nothing more than Jews who though the Messianic Age had begun. When they figured out that they were wrong, they, reverted back to idolatry, and over the next few hundred years made up myths, saints, pope, statues, icons, etc. This is perfection? Hah!
To Marc Brukhes,again: I respectfully submit to you that Judaism is nothing if not a completely rational religion. The examples you mention- Lulov-esrog, shatnez,and kapores all have logical bases as well as having beautiful symbolism. If you have difficulty seeing the logic in these mitzvoth, I suggest you read a sefer called Taamei Hamitzvoth or other commentary in order to expand your appreciation of Judaism. Certain mitzvoth which are known as Chukim,have a rational which is beyond human comprehension but we are duty-bound to observe nevertheless because G-d commanded us to ,and by observing them we realise that human wisdom is far beneath that of the Almighty. If you have ever studied Talmud Bavli, you must admit that its logic is awe-inspiring- you don't have to accept it on faith. Turning to Jewish Hashkafah, or philosophy, again, the logic, rational and truth of Judaism is obvious. All the miracles which G-d performed for us were open miracles which were witnessed by all. In contrast, regarding the virgin birth- Who were the witnesses to the conception? No one! With regard to the trinity, three equaling one is an absurdity. When G-d gave us tht Torah, He revealed Himself to every Jew at Mt. Sinai- they were all witnesses. The miracles and plagues performed in Egypt during the Exodus were all open, witnessed by all. The passover seder story has been passed on from father to son since we left Egypt -we are all links in an unbroken chain.As stated previously, the Torah given to us at Mt.Sinai was given openly to all Jews. How do Christians claim the Covanent at Sinai was broken? One man, an epileptic by the name of Paul,-one man- had a vision on the road to Damascus,in which G-d (Jesus?) told him ALONE that the Torah was no longer operative. Now all you had to do was believe in Jesus and you are guaranteed the World To Come. Who witnessed this dramatic, world-shattering change? No one! This is what Christians believe. And because we don't accept this foolishness, we are imperfect and doomed to evelasting Gehinnom. This is what Christians truly believe.You may think that all religions are equally silly and espouse the philosophy and wishes of John Lennon in his anthem "Imagine" but I'm sorry I'm sticking with Yiddishkeit.
"A Simple Yid" chastises me for stating that some Jewish rituals lack a rational basis, then writes, "Certain mitzvoth which are known as Chukim,have a rational which is beyond human comprehension but we are duty-bound to observe nevertheless because G-d commanded us to...." For anyone other than a simple Jew, it would go without saying that a mitzvah whose rationale goes beyond human comprehension is therefore, by definition, irrational, since rationality is a human category. Beyond his self-contradiction, however, "A SImple Yid" misses the point of my previous post: to say that something lacks a rational basis does not and should not suggest that it lacks beauty (since aesthetics and logic are two separate, though equally man-made, categories) or that it lacks meaning/value. Shokling the lulav and esrog with the proper kavanah--that means "concentration," or "intent," since "A Simple Yid" enjoys explaining terms didactically--is a beautiful and meaningful spiritual experience, even though to a non-Jew it might, conceivably, seem absurd. By comparison, visiting the Sistine Chapel, listening to a gospel choir, or observing Ramadan might be just as beautiful and meaningful to an adherent of that religious tradition. Recognizing this rather obvious fact is not the same as claiming either that all religions are equal or that all religions should disappear à la John Lennon: just as it's foolish to claim that Judaism is logically superior to Christianity, it's also foolish to assume on the basis of a couple of anonymous Internet postings that I'm not a religious Jew who values Yiddishkeit, since after all, simple Jew, you don't know the first thing about me. The purpose of affirming that religious belief revolves around matters of faith and not a question of rationality is to allow other people to believe what they wish, which is the basis of a civil society. That's what Ann Coulter's comments, in their own inane and ultimately forgetable way, begin to imperil. To presume that Judaism is a more perfect religion than Christianity on "objective" grounds doesn't refute her idiocy, it mimics it. I'm not sure how much value there is in continuing this enlightened exchange of views.
Why would any Jew want to become Christian when it was Christians who prepared the way with their Christ-killer theology for antisemitism, pogroms and the Holocaust, and those who perpetrated the atrocities during the Holocaust were Christians? It was also Christians who brought us the Inquisition.
TO Marc: One last point and I'm done. A "chok" is not irrational; it's suprarational. It has a rational which happens to to be beyond our comprehension but it has a rational. It's like the electromagnetic spectrum: there are certain light wave-lengths that are beyond the visual capability of the human eye to see, but these wave lenghts do exist. Good night and Gut Shabbos.
“Enemies of the Jews in the late-19th and early-20th centuries certainly did not try to convert them.(above in the article) ...Yahshuah never converted Judas..the jew. Jews confuse "hate" with truth. Grow up and admitt you are not the true Israelites. Titus-Do NOT believe jewish fables. Sighned, a pure German Israelite.
Her remarks don't surprise me. She is against anything that helps protect the environment, or that helps people (except for the super rich which she caters to), and against science and reason--she supports "cre(a)ti(o)nism" which has no basis at all in science. She is also a hypocrite--she wants the vote taken away from women, yet she votes herself--sometimes in the wrong precinct!
As a Christian, I have good reason to believe there's a nice hot hibachi in hell reserved especially for the hate-mongering Anne Coulter. Or as the good book says, she will be one "roasteth roast" Isaiah Chapter 44 Verse 16
As a Christian, I have good reason to believe there's a nice hot hibachi in hell reserved especially for the hate-mongering Anne Coulter. Or as the good book says, she will be one "roasteth roast" Isaiah Chapter 44 Verse 16
The following link is a Bill Moyers piece pointing out (in Paul Harvey, The Rest of the Story fashion) that according to CUFI (Christians United For Israel), the unfolding of prophecy will result in the Jews' final relegation to hell. Not so nice, but thanks for fulfilling prophecies for us, Israel, bye-bye... http://www.pbs.org/moyers/journal/10052007/watch2.html
What Ann Coulter is essentially true, as stated originally by Paul: He wanted the Jews of his time to become "Perfected" in the Christ. He also states often & very clearly that (in his opinion): there can be no salvation outside of the risen christ. Conservative Christians and those whom adhere to the teachings of Paul teach this, and often believe this. By reiterating this, Ann Coulter is simply restating what most Christians in especial the US believe. However, a True Christian should also know that one is not to judge other's, that only God the Father (Hashem) can know the thoughts & intentions of a man, and that all have a knowledge of God and will be separately held accountable by Him at the End of Days. --- Now whether Christians are correct is a different story, perhaps what Conservative Jews believe is true, that as non-jews, christians are only one of many lesser sects that can never become good enough to be chosen by God and should limit themselves to being righteous pagans. And thusly should always be treated as a sort of underclass that is never allowed into any deeper knowledge of the Torah other than the minimum 7 laws of Noah??? - this is also largely a "true" statement. ---Or perhaps everyone should be a little less offendable??? Whether Christians are offended by their demotion to lesser people, unable to attain any true knowledge of God, or Jews are uncomfortable because a Christian with a knack for pissing everyone off restates something written about his fellow Jews ~ 2,000 years ago seams to me more that a bit childish!!! Perhaps we should be more concerned by people, nations, and religious groups whom preach our mutual destruction every day from their towers? I would much rather have a friend by my side who would like to convert me into a "Vagan" or prayed for my "Perfection" while I faced an enemy that believes it is his religious obligation to hunt me to the sea and kill me if I hide behind a rock or tree??? --- I believe there is an inherent difference here: being Perfected might mean going from 90% to 100%, I can live with such a desire. Just as I would expect a Christian to live with my Desire that he live by the Lesser laws of Noah, and him to understand that I don not wish to eat his un-Koscher food.... Just as Hitler had no interest in "Converting" Jews, other than in his Gas Chambers, we should look for commonness and forgive words that are not spoken exactly to our own likening.... there more than 1 Billion Hitler wann-a-be's out there that peach our mutual destructing everyday!!!!! Oh, and Coulter is not an "Idiot", loud mouthed, opinionated, abrasive - yes... but no one achieves what she has done in her life as a mentally retarded person, to use such words is simply childish, and sad....
What Ann Coulter is essentially true, as stated originally by Paul: He wanted the Jews of his time to become "Perfected" in the Christ. He also states often & very clearly that (in his opinion): there can be no salvation outside of the risen christ. Conservative Christians and those whom adhere to the teachings of Paul teach this, and often believe this. By reiterating this, Ann Coulter is simply restating what most Christians in especial the US believe. However, a True Christian should also know that one is not to judge other's, that only God the Father (Hashem) can know the thoughts & intentions of a man, and that all have a knowledge of God and will be separately held accountable by Him at the End of Days. --- Now whether Christians are correct is a different story, perhaps what Conservative Jews believe is true, that as non-jews, christians are only one of many lesser sects that can never become good enough to be chosen by God and should limit themselves to being righteous pagans. And thusly should always be treated as a sort of underclass that is never allowed into any deeper knowledge of the Torah other than the minimum 7 laws of Noah??? - this is also largely a "true" statement. ---Or perhaps everyone should be a little less offendable??? Whether Christians are offended by their demotion to lesser people, unable to attain any true knowledge of God, or Jews are uncomfortable because a Christian with a knack for pissing everyone off restates something written about his fellow Jews ~ 2,000 years ago seams to me more that a bit childish!!! Perhaps we should be more concerned by people, nations, and religious groups whom preach our mutual destruction every day from their towers? I would much rather have a friend by my side who would like to convert me into a "Vagan" or prayed for my "Perfection" while I faced an enemy that believes it is his religious obligation to hunt me to the sea and kill me if I hide behind a rock or tree??? --- I believe there is an inherent difference here: being Perfected might mean going from 90% to 100%, I can live with such a desire. Just as I would expect a Christian to live with my Desire that he live by the Lesser laws of Noah, and him to understand that I don not wish to eat his un-Koscher food.... Just as Hitler had no interest in "Converting" Jews, other than in his Gas Chambers, we should look for commonness and forgive words that are not spoken exactly to our own likening.... there more than 1 Billion Hitler wann-a-be's out there that peach our mutual destructing everyday!!!!! Oh, and Coulter is not an "Idiot", loud mouthed, opinionated, abrasive - yes... but no one achieves what she has done in her life as a mentally retarded person, to use such words is simply childish, and sad....
I just had to comment on this perfection of the Jew resulting in the status of a Jesus lover. I am a Reform Jew in his 60s with several grandchildren. This silly notion that in some spiritual way I am imperfect,faulty or incomplete is beyond my capacity to comprehend. If anyone is spiritually faulty is the Christian world concept of their Sunday ritual of blood sacrifice. If thats not paganism what is? So the next a Christian has the need to worship a Jew, give me a call and they can worship me for a reasonable price! I'll be retired soon with time on my hands. In conclusion, a Christian talking about a Jew is like the Detroit Lions describing other NFL teams as lacking a winning team attitude. Please give me a break Ann Coulter!!!!
Scraping away all the inflamatory rhetoric, Ms. Coulter is simply saying something she believes based, I'm assuming, on how she was raised and taught. The sad part is that she does not intellectually challenge her own beliefs. The same could be said for observant Jews or for that matter, any dogma based on faith (in the unknown). The critical difference is the classic "better-than-you" approach she uses which is easily adapted to all other comparisons - racial, ethnic, sex, upbringing, etc. For a supposedly intelligent person not to challenge why she believes what she does and to understand it has no foundation is the larger issue
Perhaps the Forward should also cover the divorce of Britney spears. The season of repentence is upon us; did Paris Hilton make an honest teshuvah? Honestly, interrogating Coulter's remarks for theological significance. Kirk Cameron recently did what Descartes and Kant couldn't: he proved the existence of God on TV. Why not cover that as well? Here's the thing: it's not just the importance of the topic that makes an item newsworthy. It is also the potential of the speaker to contribute meaningfully to it. Or in plain speech: stop giving column space to the coverage of idiots. There are, last time I checked, several important news stories that could use the space and attention. Come on, scoop: put your journalism shoes on, and bring us a story!
Nice, balanced article. The Forward has done a service to its Jewish readers by helping them to understand that Evangelicals are not basically anti-semitic. Ann Coulter does not speak for Bible-believing Christians and from her remarks, one cannot be at all certain of her theology. I personally think she has a rather shallow understanding of the Bible as reflected by her statement “That is what Christianity is. We believe the Old Testament, but ours is more like Federal Express.” That simply does not classify as anything like a coherent biblical message. True fundamentalists are dispensationalists (many so-called Evangelicals are not) and know that the Tanach expresses God's dealings (dispensation) with the Jewish people, believers and un-believers, from which we of the New Covenant dispensation, both Jews and Gentiles, are given instruction in faith and practice. Unfortunately for all of us, keeping the Law perfectly is an impossibility because we are all imperfect. Spiritual perfection is made available to all through Jesus' vicarious atonement. (Coulter's "Federal Express" statement does not in anyway express that truth.) The Lord Jesus said to His disciples, "if you love me, keep my commandments." He was speaking of the commandments in the Tanach, not the Brit Hadasha, which had not yet been written. To keep His commandments cannot lead to perfection, because we are essentially imperfect. Placing our true faith in His perfection, is what perfects us. As a fundamentalist Christian, my advice to Jewish people is that they not spend too much time listening to "Christian" commentators and television personalities. I personally find that much of what Evangelicals pronounce to the public arena has questionable biblical basis and there is substantial confusion among themselves concerning various Bible doctrines. For example, if one looks at the theology of Joel Osteen, Rick Warren, Pat Robertson, John Hagee, Benny Hinn, Richard Roberts, Chuck Colson, etc., one would see a vast and divergent array of understandings and practice. I personally think that Evangelicalism is really very confused because of its essential focus, which is on this world, (which is certainly portrayed by Coulter's persona) as contrasted to the focus of Jesus, which was on the world to come. Shalom HaMoshiach.
1/ What Coulter said is what Christian theology has been saying for 2000 years. The phony shock and horror expressed by her critics is more disturbing. 2/ I'm constantly amazed by the number of Jews who really care what Christian theology says. Maybe they have secret doubts about Judaism?
Gabriel Sanders: The 1968 Supersession album by Mike Bloomfield, Al Kooper and Stephen Stills is great, but it's not "supersessionism" when talk about the idea that Christianity supercedes its Jewish origins. When a sincere Christian like Ann Coulter voice their belief in supercession, it's fine with me so long as they respect who I am and don't try to impose their religion on me. The Christian Zionists I've met are simply wonderful people who genuinely love Israel and respect the Jews. Unlike Muslims who believe their religion supercedes both Judaism and Christianity and subject Christians and Jews to secondary status as dhimmis, the Christian Zionists respect Jews and recognize the debt their religion has to Judaism. Coulter was simply being honest about her beliefs which voice long-held theological views. True, those views have also been held by bigots who persecuted and tormented Jews, but the problem lies not with the doctrine but what with people do with it. There is nothing to be offended about in what Ann Coulter said, nor is there any reason to fear her motives or suspect she may harbor malice. The Christian Zionists, many of whom -- but hardly all -- are Evangelical Christians, have been better supporters of Israel and friends of the Jews than liberal Jews and the mainline Protestant churches with their divestment resolutions and harboring of anti-Semitic, leftist militants or hosting of conferences by Naim Ateek's Sabeel. The alliance between Evangelicals and Jews is healthy and strong. Zev Chafetz's recent book "A Match Made in Heaven: American Jews, Christian Zionists, and One Man's Exploration of the Weird and Wonderful Judeo-Evangelical Alliance" is a good place to start for those who want to understand better what it's about. Instead of taking offense where none was given, liberal Jews would do well to open their eyes to the real threats to Jews, Israel and to the West from the Islamofascists -- or if that precise term for misunderstand their religion of peace is not politically correct, call them radial Islamists or global Jihadists. The real danger comes not from Israel's Christian allies but from those who want to destroy Israel and dominate the West, from the Saudi Lobby, from the creeping Sharia in Eurabia and the US, from the Saudi-funded mosques led by Wahabbi imams trained in Medina and from the publicly funded madrassas in the US. The reality is that regardless of whether Christian Zionists share Pastor Hagee's belief in an apocolyptic end-times scenario or are offended by it, as many of them are, the apocolyptic belief in an armed struggle that will create a Caliphate or herald the return of the Mahdi is what we should be frightened of. In truth, there are Evangelicals who would like to see Jews convert to to Christianity. But as Pastor Jan-Willem van der Hoeven, Director of the International Christian Zionist Center in Jerusalem, puts it, "When the Messiah comes, we'll ask him 'Sir, is this your first time in Israel?' Then, all will be settled; we'll find out who got it right. In the meantime, we have lots of work to do together." The kerfuffle over Ann Coulter's words is silly. We Jews ought to be a lot smarter about whose words should upset us, about who are our friends and who our enemies.
The New Covenant in Hebrews is with the Jews (See Jeremiah and Ezekial) and which the Christians are grafted into(See Romans); it is not a Christian Covenant although the Christians participate in it by faith in Jesus, nor is it the basis of Replacement theology. The New Covenant exists without Replacement theology, for many or most Evangelicals believe in the New Covenant without believing in Replacement theology.
I confess a general affinity for Ann Coulter while disagreeing with her words on “perfected” Jews. Please, indulge me to enter this discussion with some dramatic perspectives and a different statement than hers, on the essence of spiritual truths. It is however, founded in a past “Christian” belief, which has now, for me, been corrected with basic knowledge and revealed truths contained in Torah and Tanak. I call it a “Perfected” Christian. The conclusion of this above article on Coulter’s remark, is extremely balanced compared to discussions of this sort in other media. Yes, There is a move away from anti-Semitism contained in the very expression Ann Coulter voiced. Although I do disagree with her a bit. Despite her words in effect “thinking more highly of oneself” (than one ought), she is in essence, generally affectionate rather than expressive of hatred. But it is of a questionable foundation. That said, I write as a one who was a former complacent victim of “doctrines of men” contained in typical denominational “Christian” thought. So much of Anti-Semitism is based on “Who killed the Christ?” My revelation began to dawn, as I was impressed to ask the question in pure theological terms. “WHO actually was responsible for the crucifixion of the righteous man, ‘Jesus?’” Honesty demanded the truth: “I am!” … Along with every unrighteous and unrepentant ‘sinner’ who ever lived.” Following the biblically Hebraic thought that “the prayers of a righteous man avail much” it was clear that Y’shua (his true name, meaning in Hebrew “Salvation”) was righteous and cared for both Jews and Gentiles. Whatever else could be said about him, compassion for others was displayed in all we know. Moreover, keeping the “LAW” (a Christian misnomer for Torah) was central to his existence. However, Y’shua added a critical emphasis on LOVE as the essence and philosophical hinge which must underpin all Torah keeping. Any “Love-less-ness” in keeping Torah was, according to Y’shua, actually “lawlessness.” Therein came more revelation. Once these elements of truth were apparent, the distance between Jew and Gentile became miniscule. Once either a “Jew” or “Christian” understands that Y’shua was a “perfect” Torah keeping Jew, all kinds of truths must flow into the understing of both peoples. First to Christians, if we are to emulate the Christ (the One Anointed, as sent by the Creator and lover of our souls to show us pure Truth) then we must begin with accurate Hebraic thought and teachings from Torah. Sadly few who call themselves “Christians” in an everyday glibness even read beyond the “New Testament” to realize that it is the RE-newed covenant of Abraham whose obedience and faith made him the father of all who are “Chosen” and even many who were not so known. The blessing to Abraham was “intermingled” throughout the nations through his literal seed. The decision to appropriate his faith and derivative blessings is a personal choice. It is triggered in the hearts of men by the Father’s sovereign touch. Existing, like gravity, at creation, an elemental truth was restated by Moses standing between two different mountains [one of Blessing (Gerizim) and the other of Curse (Ebal)]. All mankind are, regardless of choice, subject to that rule of creation. Goodness (hessed) brings blessing. Evil (Ein Sof) brings Curses. Just the name of Mount Gerizim should (Kabalistically) imply favor. Selah. It was where Solomon’s transgressions drove the “northern kingdom” of Israel. Selah (to Judah). From creation, Transgression of Torah has always contained curses, even if one was not chosen, but even more so, if one was chosen (To whom much is given, much is required). “Return” is synonymous to “restoration of all things.” Selah Y’shua showed a sectarian priesthood and their misled followers of that time, how to return to the Torah of Moses, Abraham, Noah and Adam. I for one, no longer “worship” a so-called “Jesus” created by false doctrines of men following false fabricated “Christian” history and of whom I was told was born at “Christmas” (when all pagans worshipped the SUN god and his Yule Log representing a pagan god’s resurrection). Now I know beyond doubt with clearf historical support, Y’shua was born during the time of the Fall Feasts of the ALMIGHTY Elohim. These are not “Jewish” feasts but Father’s Feasts. I no longer can stomach the eroneous “Christian” celebrations particularly the Pagan Eshtar Fertility God worship with bunny rabbit and dyed eggs (representing the blood of infants sacrificed to Molech). Rather I keep Passover, Shavuot, Yom Teruah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and even Channukah as Y’shua did. Through Torah study and discovery of the true origins of “Christian doctrines” I have learned what “weeping for Tammuz” was all about. So, I have segregated myself from “doctrines of men” and their pagan roots. Rather, I embraced the truth of Torah and how the first century church worshipped as Torah observant Jews. I now follow the teachings of the righteous man Y’shua ( truly a Tzadik) as he walked out The Way Torah was intended to be lived. If he had no hope of Resurrection, how could anyone? Now, I follow Torah, not as bondage but privilege. It is a way to honor my Creator and to respect the Tzadik whom HE (Ha Shem) sent to show me how to walk out TORAH in this life. May I say boldly that: I am now a “Perfected Christian” who is a follower of Torah, in the example of Y’shua, and (NOT typically “Christian”). I thank the Almighty Creator for revealing to me that it is good to now be “Jewish” (as Paul wrote: “in every way”) biblically and Torah based. I challenge every other so-called “Christian” or “Jew” to examine their hearts for similar revelations. Perhaps then we can both be Yeshurun as mentioned 3x in Devarim (Deuteronomy) and Yeshayahu (Isaiah) 44.2. Fear, hatred, bigotry of any kind are all based on the enemy’s spirit. No one is better than another. Being “chosen” becomes a responsibility to not blaspheme HaShem and his Character, whether represented by Torah or Y’shua. “Truly, our fathers have inherited lies.” We must all endeavor to dispel their errors. That is true Tshuva. Based on the punishment of Israel mentioned in ….. Teshuva for sins of forefathers is particularly important for worshippers at Gerezim. Should we not learn, as brother Judah so well knows, that Father is the one worthy of worship, not HIS creation, his agents, or HIS “mount of Blessing.” Torah clearly teaches us: A place, person or thing is NOT to be worshipped. Each of us, regardless of views, should feel challenged to contemplate Ezk. 18:29-31. Other prophesy specifies a time limit allowed for return, (repentance) and implies a 7 fold increase in punishment if that Tshuva is not realized by Israel. It seems to relate to the sins of our forefathers, whomever we find them to be. For truly, our fathers “have inherited lies” and built hatred, bigotry and division on them. It is the responsibility of all "chosen ones" to walk out the truth as taught by all the patriarchs, prophets and “perfected” forefathers, especially Moses and Y’shua. It is our responsibility to learn the truth both historically and spiritually, including all the truth of Torah. Walking as “upright ones” requires love, humility, and faith. Even Ann Coulter, upon considering these things, would probably admit she may have momentarily lacked a bit of needful humility. That is, IF she is, or becomes, “perfected.”
...and who can argue with that?!
Why do we give him air time? Coulter who many believe to be a man, (check out the male adam's apple, voice, and faux effeminate affectations), is a provocateur who relishes the attention he receives.
I confess a general affinity for Ann Coulter while disagreeing with her words on “perfected” Jews. Please, indulge me to enter this discussion with some dramatic perspectives and a different statement than hers, on the essence of spiritual truths. It is however, founded in a past “Christian” belief, which has now, for me, been corrected with basic knowledge and revealed truths contained in Torah and Tanak. I call it a “Perfected” Christian. The conclusion of this above article on Coulter’s remark, is extremely balanced compared to discussions of this sort in other media. Yes, There is a move away from anti-Semitism contained in the very expression Ann Coulter voiced. Although I do disagree with her a bit. Despite her words in effect “thinking more highly of oneself” (than one ought), she is in essence, generally affectionate rather than expressive of hatred. But it is of a questionable foundation. That said, I write as a one who was a former complacent victim of “doctrines of men” contained in typical denominational “Christian” thought. So much of Anti-Semitism is based on “Who killed the Christ?” My revelation began to dawn, as I was impressed to ask the question in pure theological terms. “WHO actually was responsible for the crucifixion of the righteous man, ‘Jesus?’” Honesty demanded the truth: “I am!” … Along with every unrighteous and unrepentant ‘sinner’ who ever lived.” Following the biblically Hebraic thought that “the prayers of a righteous man avail much” it was clear that Y’shua (his true name, meaning in Hebrew “Salvation”) was righteous and cared for both Jews and Gentiles. Whatever else could be said about him, compassion for others was displayed in all we know. Moreover, keeping the “LAW” (a Christian misnomer for Torah) was central to his existence. However, Y’shua added a critical emphasis on LOVE as the essence and philosophical hinge which must underpin all Torah keeping. Any “Love-less-ness” in keeping Torah was, according to Y’shua, actually “lawlessness.” Therein came more revelation. Once these elements of truth were apparent, the distance between Jew and Gentile became miniscule. Once either a “Jew” or “Christian” understands that Y’shua was a “perfect” Torah keeping Jew, all kinds of truths must flow into the understing of both peoples. First to Christians, if we are to emulate the Christ (the One Anointed, as sent by the Creator and lover of our souls to show us pure Truth) then we must begin with accurate Hebraic thought and teachings from Torah. Sadly few who call themselves “Christians” in an everyday glibness even read beyond the “New Testament” to realize that it is the RE-newed covenant of Abraham whose obedience and faith made him the father of all who are “Chosen” and even many who were not so known. The blessing to Abraham was “intermingled” throughout the nations through his literal seed. The decision to appropriate his faith and derivative blessings is a personal choice. It is triggered in the hearts of men by the Father’s sovereign touch. Existing, like gravity, at creation, an elemental truth was restated by Moses standing between two different mountains [one of Blessing (Gerizim) and the other of Curse (Ebal)]. All mankind are, regardless of choice, subject to that rule of creation. Goodness (hessed) brings blessing. Evil (Ein Sof) brings Curses. Just the name of Mount Gerizim should (Kabalistically) imply favor. Selah. It was where Solomon’s transgressions drove the “northern kingdom” of Israel. Selah (to Judah). From creation, Transgression of Torah has always contained curses, even if one was not chosen, but even more so, if one was chosen (To whom much is given, much is required). “Return” is synonymous to “restoration of all things.” Selah Y’shua showed a sectarian priesthood and their misled followers of that time, how to return to the Torah of Moses, Abraham, Noah and Adam. I for one, no longer “worship” a so-called “Jesus” created by false doctrines of men following false fabricated “Christian” history and of whom I was told was born at “Christmas” (when all pagans worshipped the SUN god and his Yule Log representing a pagan god’s resurrection). Now I know beyond doubt with clearf historical support, Y’shua was born during the time of the Fall Feasts of the ALMIGHTY Elohim. These are not “Jewish” feasts but Father’s Feasts. I no longer can stomach the eroneous “Christian” celebrations particularly the Pagan Eshtar Fertility God worship with bunny rabbit and dyed eggs (representing the blood of infants sacrificed to Molech). Rather I keep Passover, Shavuot, Yom Teruah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and even Channukah as Y’shua did. Through Torah study and discovery of the true origins of “Christian doctrines” I have learned what “weeping for Tammuz” was all about. So, I have segregated myself from “doctrines of men” and their pagan roots. Rather, I embraced the truth of Torah and how the first century church worshipped as Torah observant Jews. I now follow the teachings of the righteous man Y’shua ( truly a Tzadik) as he walked out The Way Torah was intended to be lived. If he had no hope of Resurrection, how could anyone? Now, I follow Torah, not as bondage but privilege. It is a way to honor my Creator and to respect the Tzadik whom HE (Ha Shem) sent to show me how to walk out TORAH in this life. May I say boldly that: I am now a “Perfected Christian” who is a follower of Torah, in the example of Y’shua, and (NOT typically “Christian”). I thank the Almighty Creator for revealing to me that it is good to now be “Jewish” (as Paul wrote: “in every way”) biblically and Torah based. I challenge every other so-called “Christian” or “Jew” to examine their hearts for similar revelations. Perhaps then we can both be Yeshurun as mentioned 3x in Devarim (Deuteronomy) and Yeshayahu (Isaiah) 44.2. Fear, hatred, bigotry of any kind are all based on the enemy’s spirit. No one is better than another. Being “chosen” becomes a responsibility to not blaspheme HaShem and his Character, whether represented by Torah or Y’shua. “Truly, our fathers have inherited lies.” We must all endeavor to dispel their errors. That is true Tshuva. Based on the punishment of Israel mentioned in ….. Teshuva for sins of forefathers is particularly important for worshippers at Gerezim. Should we not learn, as brother Judah so well knows, that Father is the one worthy of worship, not HIS creation, his agents, or HIS “mount of Blessing.” Torah clearly teaches us: A place, person or thing is NOT to be worshipped. Each of us, regardless of views, should feel challenged to contemplate Ezk. 18:29-31. Other prophesy specifies a time limit allowed for return, (repentance) and implies a 7 fold increase in punishment if that Tshuva is not realized by Israel. It seems to relate to the sins of our forefathers, whomever we find them to be. For truly, our fathers “have inherited lies” and built hatred, bigotry and division on them. It is the responsibility of all "chosen ones" to walk out the truth as taught by all the patriarchs, prophets and “perfected” forefathers, especially Moses and Y’shua. It is our responsibility to learn the truth both historically and spiritually, including all the truth of Torah. Walking as “upright ones” requires love, humility, and faith. Even Ann Coulter, upon considering these things, would probably admit she may have momentarily lacked a bit of needful humility. That is, IF she is, or becomes, “perfected.”
The concept of "replacement theology" does exist. But it is not based on a "covenant" made between G-d and "Christians", not in any true since. Throughout the Hebrew Bible their are countless examples of "covenants" made between G-d and man which were very specific. But not once in the Christian Bible is a covenant made between G-d and man or between G-d and Christians). Call it wishful thinking or call it semantics but the concept of "replacement theology" is based on a covenant that was never made by G-d. Having said this I am aware that today many Christians who formerly believed this no longer espouse this doctrine and pray for Israel and the Jewish people. Millions of Christians represented by Christians United for Israel(CUFI) are proof of this. People like Ann Coulter should be more concerned about the Muslims who threaten both Jews and Christians than about "perfecting" Jews.
Something about the reaction to this provocation has surprised me. In the original interview, and in subsequent ones, Coulter made what I must assume she knew to be an untrue statement about Jerry Falwell and hence, by extension, about fundamentalists and conservative evangelicals in general. I can only assume that she either told a barefaced lie or else that she knows as little about Christian theology as about any other subject on which she pontificates. COULTER: No, no, no, no, no. I don't want you being offended by this. This is what Christians consider themselves, because our testament is the continuation of your testament. You know that. So we think Jews go to heaven. I mean (Jerry) Falwell himself said that, but you have to follow laws. Ours is "Christ died for our sins." We consider ourselves perfected Christians. For me to say that for you to become a Christian is to become a perfected Christian is not offensive at all. --------------------- "Dual-covenant" theology, whereby Jews could be saved by virtue of adherence to the Old Covenant has been a decidedly marginal position among Protestant fundamentalists. Coulter's remark derives from a story in the Jerusalem Post of 1 March 2006, which claimed that Falwell had been persuaded of the validity of dual-covenant theology by the oddball Pastor John Hagee and Orthodox rabbi Rabbi Aryeh Scheinberg, both of San Antonio. The headline was Falwell: Jews can get to heaven Falwell has altered his position, according to Scheinberg, apparently because the pastor decided to put End of Days theology aside in favor of the overriding need to support Israel, particularly against the mounting threat of a nuclear Iran. "Obviously Falwell was very passionate about conversion, but he absolutely clearly knows Hagee's position and the Christians United for Israel position," Scheinberg said. "No question about that; Hagee assured me. I would trust him in his role for Israel, for Israel's security, to strengthen Israel. I would be very surprised if Falwell ever tried to pull a fast one. Morrison, Bauer and Hagee are so strong and so clear in their nonconversionary position, as well as the organization. Unless he [Falwell] lapsed into a moment of stupidity," Scheinberg said. http://preview.tinyurl.com/zmett ----------------------------- Falwell immediately issued a full denial that he had ever held to such a heretical position. Falwell: Jerusalem Post 'fabricated' story on me ".....Before today, I had never heard of Rabbi Aryeh Scheinberg or had any communications with him. I therefore am at a total loss as to why he would make such statements about me to the Post, if in fact he did." http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=49063 I simply cannot alter my deeply-held belief in the exclusivity of salvation through the Gospel of Christ for the sake of political or theological expediency. http://www.theconservativevoice.com/articles/article.html?id=12741 Hagee, Falwell deny endorsing 'dual covenant' theology J Post, 3 March 2006 http://preview.tinyurl.com/2jnnug Hagee issued a rather more half-hearted one, in a letter to the Jerusalem Post. His policy of not targeting Jews for conversion has long been seen by rigidly orthodox fundamentalists as a thin veil that is deceitfully covering dual-covenant theology. http://www.pfo.org/jonhagee.htm http://apostasywatch.com/wolves3/page7.html scroll to bottom right link on http://www.cephasministry.com/index_assembly_of_god.html ----------------------------- Conservative Protestants have always held to a supercessionist view, by which the Old Covenant, made with the Children of Israel, is completely superceded by the New Covenant, made with individual Christians. The liberal and ecumenical Alliance of Baptists openly broke with this in 1995, to the horror of the Southern Baptist Convention, dominated by fundamentalists in recent decades. http://www.allianceofbaptists.org/christian-jewish.htm It is in the liberal Protestant churches that there have been tendencies towards acceptance of Judaism's religious validity. The fundamentalists have supported Israel, under almost any circumstances, for quite different reasons.
I wonder what her boyfriend, Andrew Stein (ne Finkelstein), thinks about all this.
Hello Forward, Did Ann Coulter father Tex play football for the Montreal Aluettes???
I don't care what anyone "believes" as long as they hedge it all with one simple universal civilized value: the separation of church and state. A value which Ms. Coulter, from these isolated comments, may or may not share: hypothetically, she could here be making a cultural comment to promote understanding, or she could be attempting to weaken the great wall between private beliefs about the world and an acceptable basis for public action. From the context of the entire right in recent years, I lean very heavily towards the latter hypothesis.
The once most Orthodox of all the original Apostles; Paul's 'conversion-angst' is projected in all his writings and his disciples, two of whom wrote half of the Christian Gospels: Mark and Luke. Quite frankly, remove Paul's writings and disciples from Christianity and there would never have been the anti-semitic autrocities found in every Christian generation, and there would not be any 'Evangelicals.' The Christian Gospel of Matthew garners much from Mark, but in its own right contributes much to anti-semitism; it's authors being converted Jewish Scribes and that 'conversion-angst' rearing its ugly head again. The Christian Gospel of John written the furtherest from the time of Jesus, proclaims a community enmeshed in myth and symbolism. Orthodox Christian scripture scholars, never fundamentalist Evangelicals, write of the "ipsissima verbae" the 'actual words' of Christ in the New Testament Gospels totaling anywhere from seven to twelve, and "perfected" is not one of them. Jesus, who said 'to be misunderstood is to be dangerous?'
Ann Coulter is an attention seeker who attempts to bait people into reacting to her comments as if they merited attention.Her views on most any subject are about as significant as those from any garden variety lunatic.They threaten no one and shouldn't be taken seriously.
I don't understand what all the fuss is about. Christians believe that salvation is only through Christ. So what? Ann was just voicing Christian theology. Every believing Christian has this belief. This is nothing new. They believe every non- Christian should believe in Jesus so that they will be saved, not just Jews. What Ann did wrong was that she used the wrong word. The term is "completed" Jew. Evangelical Christians know that Jesus and the apostles were Jewish and that Christianity was born from Judaism. So a Jew that doesn't believe in Jesus is almost there. If only he believed in Jesus it would complete him. This term is reserved for Jews because of the origins of Christianity from Judaism. However, the theology applies to all non-Christians. They believe the world would be better off is everyone was Christian. Everyone who believes in a value system, religious or secular, believes that their belief system is better than others. Otherwise why believe in it? I believe that Judaism is a better belief system then all the others. So what? Get a grip and stop being so easily offended. The feminization of our society over the last 50 years is really pathetic. Don't liberals believe the world would be better if everyone was a liberal?
I'm a Jew who digs Ann Coulter and Lenny Bruce.Anyone who disses her over comments she made to a Jewish talk show host who I think was taping his show live on Shabbat,ought to at least get a transcript of her interview with Michael Medved.Nah..ain't gonna happen.Medved's a former Orthodox Democrat Jew who converted to Republican.
A Simple Yid Wrote: There does not seem to be any concerted effort for Christians to love and convert Muslims, Hindus, Buddists, Shintoists, Sikhs,etc.etc. -only Jews. Why? You are DEAD WRONG there, the convert the Muslims-to-Christianity operation is going on well, but it is mainly a dangerous carefully executed operation by Christians born in the culture. Native Arab speakers only... Ann Coulter might die as a martyr if she tried that, but would fail to convert anybody, too stupid, too impolite. Nevertheless, it is to Christians a biblical commandment to evangelize to everybody, with the instruction that they have to start with evangelizing to the Jews. Converting anybody to Christianity, saving anybody's soul at the cost of your own life is from a Christian point great heroism and a good deal. If the person is Jewish, even better, a more perfect fulfilment of this Christian mitzvah.
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