The relationship between Christians and Jews has not always been loving. In the first three centuries of Christian history many believers in Jesus were persecuted by adherents of Judaism who rejected Jesus as a false prophet and His followers as a pagan sect.
Later, when Christians rose to political power, many within the Church actively rooted out many elements of the Christian faith that were grounded in the Jewish faith of the Hebrew Scriptures and later, tragically, began to openly persecute the Jewish people.
This went on for centuries, with bitter antisemitism resulting from the horribly evil statements of notable Church history figures such as John Chrysostom and Martin Luther. (For a summary of the atrocities committed by Christians against the Jewish people, see Michael L. Brown's book "Our Hands are Stained with Blood.")
Thankfully, the relationship between Christians and Jews is now mostly peaceful, with mutual respect being shown on the part of most adherents of these two Abrahamic faiths.
But what does the mean for the Christian who takes seriously the call to evangelism found in the New Testament? What is the relationship between the Church and the Synagogue? Are faithful followers of Judaism still in Covenant with God and, therefore, not in need of the Gospel of Jesus? Does respect and tolerance require an acknowledgment on the part of Christians that their Jewish friends, neighbors or family members are "saved" despite rejecting Jesus' claim to be the Messiah of Israel?
At a recent seminar on the book of Revelation, the topic of modern Judaism and Israel came up during a Q&A session. I was able to address many of the issues surrounding this sensitive, yet important topic from the perspective of the New Testament authors.
It's important that Christians and Jews (and all other faiths and worldviews, for that matter!) be able to talk openly, honestly, and yet, controversially when it comes to issues of crucial disagreement. Disagreements are real and they make a significant difference in interfaith dialogue. However, such disagreements and debates need to be carried out with the utmost respect and love for those on the other side. This is the call of the New Testament (1Peter 3:15ff), and should characterize the true follower of Jesus.
[If you enjoyed this video, more resources by James-Michael are available at www.jmsmith.org and sermon.net/jmsmith]
Comments
Very well written
Sound on the video was too low for it to be intelligible to me. That makes commenting difficult.
Sorry, Hugh, I just noticed that. I'll try to repost it with the volume bumped up, it is a bit too low. :(
Re uploaded the video clip with raised volume. Should be okay now. Lemme know if you still can't hear it, Hugh.
JM
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!