Discussion: Defining Jewish Identity in the Messianic Jewish Context

I'll try to take up one of the topics that are on my mind and heart. Maybe we can have a fruitful exchange about it.

For the Messianic Jewish community, as well as for the broader Jewish world, I think it is time to come to a definition of the Jewish identity and what it means to be Jewish. With this I would like to provide an answer to the question of public interest: Can "Messianic Jews" rightfully claim to be Jews?

I. Introduction - Defining Jewish Identity

Part 0 : What makes up an identity?

• 0.1. Belonging: What causes people to take on an identity or identify with a certain community?
• 0.2. Selfdefinition: How is identity defined?
• 0.3. Purpose of life within identity: Does the answer to the purpose of life have to be the same for all that claim the same identity?
• 0.4. Accountability regarding the identity and its responsabilities: How are the self-expectations as well as the expectations of outsiders in regard to the identity formed?

II. Jewish Identity in the Messianic Jewish Context

Part 1: Is there a distiction to be made between Jewish believers and followers of Yeshua and non-Jewish ones?

• 1.1. Do all believers in Yeshua have to observe the Torah given specifically to Israel?
• regarding Shabbat
• regarding other commandments
• 1.2. Is the Olive Tree something bigger than the Jewish people?
• 1.3. Is Christianity supposed to be true Judaism and the Church supposed to be true Israel?
• 1.4. If being a Jew is an honour, which entails special promises but also responsabilities, are these promises and responsabilities automatically transfered to non-Jews that become believers?

Part 2: What are the special responsabilities of the Jewish people?

• 2.1. How can we describe the responsabilities in terms that touch the heart of the calling of the Jewish people?

Looking forward for your comments and contributions!

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