We Christians Need to Remember Our Jewish Roots


As a young evangelical in 2023, there has never been so much information to digest on the Christian faith.

There have never been so many conflicting voices, so many conflicting theologies and interpretations - however, the one true way to connect with your faith on the deepest level possible is to strengthen its roots.

The Christian faith was born out of Judaism when Jesus (Yeshua) began His ministry and taught the ultimate fulfillment of the Old Covenant. 

Even though it has been fulfilled, there is still a dual aspect of the Old Covenant that is still very much alive.

This is a powerful secret in the 21st century, but Christians today can benefit in a big way by studying the Jewish roots of our faith. The Torah (the first five books of the Bible, also called the Pentateuch), has been filled by God with many important lessons, truths, and blessings.

Here are just four reasons why Christians today may benefit from studying the Torah, which is the foundational text of Judaism:

Should Christians Study the Torah?

1) Understanding the roots of Christianity: Christianity has its roots in Judaism, and many of the beliefs, practices, and traditions of Christianity are influenced by the Torah and the wider Jewish tradition. Studying the Torah can help Christians understand the historical and cultural context in which Jesus and his followers lived, and can shed light on the origins of many Christian teachings and practices.

2) Appreciating the Jewish roots of Christianity: Christianity and Judaism share many core values and beliefs, including monotheism, the importance of moral behaviour, and the hope for a Messianic age. Studying the Torah can help Christians appreciate the Jewish roots of their faith and build bridges of understanding and respect with their Jewish neighbours.

3) Gaining insights into the character of God: The God of the Torah is a central figure in both Judaism and Christianity, and studying the Torah can provide Christians with a deeper understanding of God's character, nature, and attributes. For example, Christians can learn about God's holiness, justice, compassion, and faithfulness through reading the Torah.

4) Learning timeless wisdom and moral teachings: The Torah contains a wealth of timeless wisdom and moral teachings that are relevant to Christians and non-Christians alike. For example, the Torah teaches the importance of caring for the vulnerable, seeking justice, and pursuing peace. Christians can learn from these teachings and apply them to their own lives and communities.

Overall, studying the Torah can deepen Christians' understanding of their faith, help them appreciate the Jewish roots of Christianity, and provide them with valuable insights into the character of God and timeless moral teachings.

Moreso than just studying the Torah, remembering our Jewish roots, in general, can provide us with immense value! Here are five ways in which remembering our Jewish roots can help our personal faith journey:

Why Should Christians Remember our Jewish Roots?

1) Historical and cultural context: Understanding the Jewish roots of Christianity helps Christians better understand the historical and cultural context in which Yeshua (Jesus) and His early followers lived. This can provide valuable insights into the beliefs, practices, and traditions of early Christianity, as well as the political and social conditions that shaped the early Christian community.

2) Appreciation for Jewish tradition: Remembering its Jewish roots can help Christianity cultivate an appreciation for Jewish tradition and culture. This can lead to greater understanding and respect between Christians and Jews and can help build bridges of understanding and cooperation between the two communities.

3) Spiritual insight: Christianity can gain spiritual insight by remembering its Jewish roots. Many of the spiritual practices, teachings, and symbols of Christianity have their roots in Jewish tradition, and studying Jewish scripture and theology can provide Christians with a deeper understanding of their own faith. I have personally gained immense value by harnessing the power of the Tallit and Shofar.

4) Connection to scripture: Christianity's connection to Judaism is reflected in the Christian Bible, which includes the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). Understanding the Jewish context and origins of these scriptures can provide Christians with a deeper appreciation of the Bible and its teachings.

5) Unity with the global Church: Finally, remembering its Jewish roots can help Christianity recognize its place within the global Church, which includes a diversity of traditions, cultures, and perspectives. Recognizing the Jewish origins of Christianity can help Christians connect with other parts of the Church and appreciate the contributions of other Christian traditions.


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