Beth HaDerech; Messianic Jewish Congregation, Toronto, Canada

The Need for an Identity | Messianic Judaism #1

I am hoping to write a series of articles about Messianic Judaism. My purpose is to tackle what it both is and is not as a movement. I also want to address what I feel are some of the major issues which we as a body need to address to move forward in our development. I realize that many books and articles have been written about the Messianic Jewish movement. I am not trying to reinvent the wheel. If you want to read those books search the internet. One of my primary goals is to stir up discussion and debate among others both in the Messianic Jewish community and those who are on the outside, for example Christians. I realize I am but one voice in the Messianic Jewish community; however I really want feedback from others on these articles, because we all need to have input into our growth and development. The first step I believe is the need to identify Messianic Judaism. The need for identity is primary in all circumstances. A doctor cannot treat a patient until the problem has been identified. A researcher needs to identify the issue prior to conducting the research. The Messianic Jewish movement currently finds itself in the midst of a rabid identity crisis. From its inception, Messianic Judaism’s primary goal has been to be a home and way of life...