31 – Rethinking Atonement | Dr. David Moffit

Interpreters of the Epistle to the Hebrews have long taught that its author took the view that Jesus canceled the Torah, the Law of Moses, along with all its sacrifices and rituals. However, our guest today, Dr. David Moffit, has taken a different perspective. He walks us through his intensive study of the concepts of atonement and reconciliation in the Old and New Testaments. He concludes that Hebrews can find its place among other Jewish works of the Second Temple Era, as its author had nothing but respect for Moses and the Torah.

– Highlights –

How Dr. David Moffit came to think differently about atonement.The surprising impact of the resurrection of Jesus on understanding the book of Hebrews. Understanding Jesus’ sacrificial death in light of the Levitical sacrificial system.What did the slaughter of animals accomplish in the Levitical system?What was the focal point of Jesus’ sacrifice?What does killing an animal on the altar of the Tabernacle or Temple accomplish?Understanding the various types of sacrifices and their basic functions.What is atonement, and why is it necessary?Does Hebrews 3 eliminate the Levitical system?Melchizedek, Hebrews 7, and a heavenly priesthood.Does the book of Hebrews regard the Torah as relevant or authoritative?How can Jesus be a high priest even though he is not from the tribe of Levi?Was it Jesus’ death or his ascension that accomplished the work of atonement?What is Dr. David Moffit’s next book project?

– Resources –

Rethinking the Atonement, by Dr. David Moffit

– Who is Messiah Podcast? –

Messiah Podcast is a production of First Fruits of Zion (FFOZ), a Messianic Jewish education organization dedicated to reconciling disciples of Yeshua with God's prophetic promises to Israel.

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Welcome to Messiah Podcast—where Jesus is Jewish, and that changes everything. Dive into the heart of Messianic faith as we engage with top scholars, pastors, Messianic rabbis, musicians, and thought leaders shaping the conversation on Messianic Judaism and the Jewish roots of Christianity. Produced by First Fruits of Zion (FFOZ), our mission is to deliver enriching Messianic education and reconnect disciples with God’s prophetic promises to Israel. Whether you’re exploring the Messianic Jewish perspective for the first time or deepening your faith, this podcast will illuminate the teachings and kingdom message of Yeshua, the Jewish Messiah.

• No. of episodes: 79
• Latest episode: 2025-08-12
• Religion & Spirituality

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