The Christian Vegetarian Association (CVA)
Weekly Newsletter from Christian Vegetarian Association CVA - September 23, 2022
From Christian Vegetarian Association (CVA)
1. Jesus and Animal Issues
The Bible does not clearly demonstrate that Jesus was, or was not,
an animal advocate. The Hebrew Scriptures, which according to the gospels
were revered by Jesus, describe a plant-based diet as ideal (Genesis
1:29-30; Isaiah 11:6-9), but they also include many passages and stories
that describe harmful exploitation of nonhumans. Among animal-friendly
passages in the New Testament, John 2:15 describes Jesus liberating animals
slated for sacrifice. However, there are also some problematic passages,
such as celebrating the return of the Prodigal Son with killing the fatted
calf. Paul does not appear to have been an animal advocate, but that does
not necessarily relate to Jesus’ views.
Keith Akers’ book Disciples carefully analyses biblical and nonbiblical
ancient sources to arrive at the conclusion that Jesus was very likely
vegetarian. In particular, he draws a line from the vegetarian Ebionite sect
to the early Jewish Christians (who were vegetarian and, as Jesus’ first
followers, knew him intimately), to Jesus himself.
Though people often express certainty about Jesus, the Bible, and other
matters of faith, I have not found such claims to be reasonable. There is
too much uncertainty about what happened 2000 years ago, particularly since
the received texts describing these events have emerged from communities
that experienced fierce religious and political conflicts with each other.
This uncertainty, though perhaps unsettling for those who seek certainty
when exploring important questions about their lives, can be a strength if
Christianity is to take a leadership role in confronting contemporary world
challenges. Jesus offered a spiritual path to a small group of Jewish people
2000 years ago. These teachings, though profound and sometimes timeless, do
not give clear guidance for many contemporary challenges, particularly those
raised by technologies beyond the comprehension of a person 2000 years ago.
It can be tempting to use short passages or dubiously interpreted parables
to support policy positions today that are harmful to humans, nonhumans, and
the earth. In contrast, principles that were central to Jesus’ ministry,
such as love, compassion, and mercy, might serve as the foundation for a
Christian faith that the entire world needs.
Next, I will discuss how these core Christian principles can only offer
salvation to humanity, but only if they are also applied to animal issues.
Stephen R. Kaufman, M.D.
2. From All-Creatures.Org Ministry
We hope this finds you having a renewing day and that you enjoy this
week’s newsletter. It is jam-packed with helpful vegan, faith-based, and
animal rights information to keep you up to date with all that is going on.
Please feel free to share vegan information with us as well!
All-Creatures.org Newsletter for
September 22, 2022
In the Love of the Lord,
Frank L Hoffman
All-Creatures.org
and
Kindness,
Tams Nicholson
Executive Directress
All-Creatures.org
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