Gregor: I will allow Emile to answer your question, although I am pretty sure I know what he will post. Concerning your friend, I like to think that she is still Jewish. Many messianic jews would prefer to be known as 'completed' jews rather than converted. That word has some bad connotations to jews in general. Although we are one body in Yeshua, the Messiah, we also can have different expressions of culture, race, denomination, etc. The Messianic jews have so much to offer to the Church in terms of cultural heritage, bringing a deeper understanding to many passages in the Old and New Covenant (rather than testament). On the other hand, Messianic Jews must be careful to reach out to the rest of the Body and to avoid the sin of pride in their jewish heritage.
The gentile church has much to be ashamed of as we look at the past deeds of gentile Christians, starting with the early church and continuing to the present day. Dear Lord, forgive our sins of intollerance and, yes, persecution of your chosen people.
One unified church is the prayer request which our Lord prayed so earnestly for to His Father in heaven.
Peace be to you,
Lee |
