Was Jesus a Catholic or a Jew?

The question of whether Jesus was a Catholic or a Jew has been a subject of debate for centuries. While it is understandable to feel frustrated by some who mock Jesus, His teachings, and the Church He founded, it is important to delve into the historical and theological contexts surrounding these claims.

Historical Context

The notion that Jesus was a Roman and that the Catholic Church was established by Him disregards the clear historical and cultural contexts. Jesus was a Jewish man, living in a time when Roman rule was present in the region, but His primary identity was as a Jew. His message was rooted in Jewish tradition and his teachings affirmed Jewish beliefs and practices that predated the formation of the Catholic Church by centuries.

Jesus as a Jew

Historically, Jesus was born and raised as a Jew, following the commandments of the Torah. He was a rabbi and a revolutionary leader within the framework of Judaism, aiming to fulfill the law rather than invalidate it. The 613 commandments were an integral part of Jewish life, and Jesus' teachings were rooted in this tradition, urging followers to follow these commandments to the letter.

The Formation of the Catholic Church

The Catholic Church, as we know it today, was established long after the death and resurrection of Jesus, much later than the claimed 3rd century. The claim that Jesus established His church using the term 'ekklesia,' which means a congregation of like-minded individuals, is accurate. However, this does not align with the organized structure and dogmas that are characteristic of the Catholic Church.

Catholicism and Biblical Deviation

While the Catholic Church has a rich tradition and many valid teachings, it has sometimes deviated from the understandings of the Bible as it was intended. The Catholic Church operates on man-made dogmas that are not entirely supported by the Bible, and in some cases, these dogmas contradict scriptural teachings. This is a critical point for clarification and reflection within the Christian community.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Jesus was a Jew, raised and brought up in the traditions of Judaism. He was the Messiah awaited by the Jewish people, and He founded a church rooted in the Jewish faith, which later evolved into what we recognize as the Catholic Church. However, it is important to recognize that the teachings and structure of the Catholic Church, while offering valuable insights and traditions, are distinct from the foundational teachings laid by Jesus.