The concept of Herem is found throughout the Old Testament and presented a problem to the Second Temple Jewish authors. In introducing the concept to their audiences and in applying it to themselves and other nations, they avoided it by reducing or expanding, omitting or changing the concept of Herem. Much evidence in Luke-Acts, however, indicates that Luke deliberately uses the concept of Herem in order to present the life and teaching of Jesus and his disciples. Jesus' death on the cross, resurrection and ascension can be seen as Herem, that redeems God's people. The disciples' thoughts and |