Section 1–Class 1: Understanding Jewish Identity

Section 1–Introduction to Jewish Evangelism

Class 1: Understanding Jewish Identity

Teacher: Aaron Abramson

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Class Notes

Key questions:

What do Jewish people around the world have in common?

What do they believe?

What do they think about Jesus and the Christian faith?

Diversity Among Jewish People

• Jewish identity encompasses ethnicity, tradition, culture, and upbringing.
• Historically, Jewish identity was based on maternal lineage or conversion.
• Modern complexities:
  • Israeli Law of Return includes people with one Jewish grandparent.
  • Diverse global Jewish communities: American, Israeli, Ethiopian, Ukrainian, etc.
• A wide spectrum of religious observances:
  • Ultra-Orthodox, Modern Orthodox, Reform, Conservative, Kabbalists, and others.
  • Differences in tradition and belief vary significantly between groups.

Core Elements Connecting Jewish People

1. Israel—Strong connection despite varying political views
2. Antisemitism and the Holocaust—Shared historical persecution and its ongoing effects
3. Torah and Tradition—Connection to Jewish holidays and customs, even among secular Jews
4. History—Shared cultural heritage and language with painful historical chapters
5. Opinions—Jewish culture values debate and discussion

Jewish Beliefs

• Orthodox Jews:
  • Believe in both the written and oral Torah
  • View sin as a behavior, not a state of being
  • Await the Messiah but do not believe Jesus fulfilled the prophecies
  • Hold to a literal observance of the law, adapted due to the absence of the Temple
• Non-Orthodox Jews:
  • Broader spectrum of beliefs and practices, often selective in observance
  • Reform Judaism emphasizes social justice (Tikkun Olam) and evolving traditions
• Increasing openness to Jesus as a teacher or rabbi, but skepticism about His role as Messiah persists.

Diversity of Jewish-Christian Interactions

• Modern intermarriage has made Jewish beliefs more pluralistic.
• While there is openness to the gospel, this does not always indicate spiritual hunger.

Biblical Examples of Jewish Diversity

• Nicodemus (John 3)—A Rabbi curious about salvation and spiritual matters
• Samaritan Woman (John 4)—A culturally distinct individual who Jesus approached differently, emphasizing true worship

Lessons from Jesus’ Approach

• Jesus tailored His interactions based on individuals’ worldviews and needs.
• Examples of diverse groups Jesus addressed: Rabbis, leaders, tax collectors, fishermen, etc.
• Effective witness requires understanding and listening to people’s unique contexts.

Life Application

• Christians are encouraged to be prepared to share their hope with Jewish people.
• Learning about Jewish beliefs and culture can help make witness more compelling and relatable.