Related to early Christian church history, many Protestant scholars teach what is known as 'the parting of the ways.' Basically, this is the view that what they refer to as 'Jewish Christianity' separated from 'Gentile Christianity' and that that 'Jewish' version died out. In his book, 'The Parting of the Ways: Between Christianity and Judaism and Their Significance for the Character of Christianity,' Dr. James Dunn points to a parting in the second century, then mentions other partings. After admitting what original Christianity was, Dr. Dunn wrote, "Whether Jewish Christianity could or should have been retained within the spectrum of catholic Christianity is an important question which it may now be impossible to answer." Dr. Thiel says that is NOT impossible to answer if you believe the Bible and will look at often overlooked aspects of early Christian church history. After quoting scriptures, Dr. Thiel points out that people parted from the Apostles, like Paul and John, rejected hierarchical church governance, preferred their own opinions, and were influenced by pagan philosophies. Quotes about what happened in Jerusalem related to the Bar Kochba revolt that ended c. 135 and a split between the faithful and the cowardly compromisers were provided. Faithful heresy fighters like Polycarp of Smyrna, Polycrates of Ephesus, and Serapion of Antioch were mentioned, as well as the unfaithful such as Simon Magus, Thebuthis, Marcus of Jerusalem, Justin Martyr, Marcion, and Valentinus. Gregory the Wonder Worker, Emperor Constantine, and Emperor Theodosius were discussed and denounced. The original date of Passover and the Council of Nicea's date change to Easter Sunday was mentioned. The fact of supposedly 'Christian' emperors, like Constantine decreeing the death penalty for the faithful who would not eat unclean animals and Theodosius decreeing the death penalty for those willing to be faithful to the date of Passover was mentioned. Dr. Thiel cites Protestant as well as Roman Catholic scholars who agree that the bulk of those who profess Christianity post third century do not hold to the teachings and practices of the original Christians. Numerous scriptures pointing to THE WAY, including Jesus' warnings about those who will not follow the narrow way were also quoted.
A written article of related interest is available titled 'What was the Parting from the Way?' URL: What was the Parting from the Way? – CCOG
Youtube sermon video link: Parting from THE WAY
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