Olive Tree Theology

Olive Tree Theology

Olive Tree Theology One of the important doctrines that The Road to God Ministry (TRTGM) follows is called Olive Tree Theology. In fact, this religious viewpoint is our number three tenet in our Article of Faith. Unfortunately, Olive Tree Theology remains one of the most misunderstood doctrines throughout modern Biblical Judaism as it stands in contrast with many Messianic Jewish doctrines. Olive Tree Theology, Part 1 & 2     " For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." Romans 1:16 (KJV)   My Biblical life verse has given me spiritual direction throughout my Christian life. Even with my formal education almost over I still live day-to-day by the words of the Apostle Paul. The Road to God Ministry also works by following Romans 1:16. The ministry has a series of Articles of Faith and it is through these Articles that the ministry functions. I personally believe that the success of The Road to God Ministry has been because we follow our Articles of Faith to the letter.   Unfortunately, there is one article, the third that confuses many people; Believer and lost alike. Our third Article of Faith reads,   3. Adhere to the tenet of Olive Tree Theology; Jewish & Gentile Believers of Yeshua can worship together and maintain their own cultural distinctiveness.   This Article defines our belief and teachings of the doctrine entitled Olive Tree Theology. What is so unfortunate is that too many people have no idea what that is. Today, I will start a four-part series on the doctrine of Olive Tree Theology.   It took me over 20 years to convince myself tyhe truth of Messiah Yeshua (Jesus); that He is not only the Messiah, but the Son of God. These 20+ years where a time of intense study. I did everything I can to prove Christ false. In the end I could only prove Him the true Son of Adonai (the Lord). So when I finally made my confession in Yeshua that we are all commanded to do in Romans 10:9 I naturally made my way to a Messianic synagogue congregation. My first years there were one of hapiness, knowing that I could remain a Believer and a Jew at the same time. But what I saw at this congregation disturbed me as well.   What surprised me about my new congregation was that there where more Gentiles as members of the congregation then there where Messianic Jews. I also noticed, not at first but after a year or so, is that all of the sermons where Jewish oriented. Never did I hear a sermon diected towards the Gentile Believer. I also realized that every evangelical and witnessing effort was always for the Jew alone. An orthodox dispensational attmosphere was everywhere. After all, we were taught, that the New Covenant was written by Jews and for a Jewish audience. Again I could not see the Gentile in the "big picture."   This congregation is where The Road to God Ministry began. Yet it was unsuccessful, boring no fruit in any manner whatsoever. In retrospect I know this is because we where not following Scripture in a literal sense. Too many times the Bible was being taken in a contemporary fashion that allowed personal interpretations.   Thus I left the Messianic synagogue. Let me be clear in stating that these doctrine issue where only part of the reason I left for I had another personal reason. After a long trek to find a new spiritual home, my family ended up at a local General Baptist Church. It was here that I found a pastor who not only viewed the Bible literally, but held just about all the same doctrines that I did. It was also here that I began my formal education, attending semminary and receiving a BS in ministry and soon, with Adonai's aid a MA in pastoral ministry.   Thus we come to todays Olive Tree Thology teaching. One of the first things I learned at the Messianic congregation is that there is a true and important need for two houses of worship; a Messianic synagogue and a Gentile Church. Thus it was being taught that there is a desperate need for separation between saved Jews and Gentiles. At first I found this to be hypocritical since the majority of members of the Messianic congregation were Gentiles. But I also could not understand the purpose or the Scriptural calling for the division of Jew and Gentile. If anything this seemed straight out wrong. I could not, and still don't, know of any Scripture calling for the separation of Jews and Gentiles. If anything, there only lies a clear calling for the opposite.   Thus began my belief in Olive Tree Theology. This doctrine was originally created by Dr. David Stern, the translator to the Complete Jewish Bible. But as I have contemplated this doctrine over the past few years I have come to realize the true importance behind such a belief. Biblically there is no call for separation of Believers, in fact, Scripture gives us examples and commands to the opposite. In the Gospel of Matthew we read,   And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom. 39 And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God. Matthew 15:38-39   It is here that we not only see the separation between Man and God made with the tearing of the veil, but it also indicates all divisions to be nullified. In verse 39 we read of the centurion, a Gentile, who stands at the base of the cross, with many other Jewish Believers, declaring his faith in Yeshua.   Of greater impact comes the words of the Apostle Paul when he writes to the Church of Galatia. It reads,   For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. Gal 3:26-28 (KJV)   It is here that we are told specifically that all Believers stand equal in Christ. Some read these verses to mean that there no longer is a Jew in God's eyes, but this is simply not true. When you read the Bible literally you will find many indications of when a verse is literal and when it is to be taken as an analogy. In this case the verses are not only reading that there is no Jew or Gentile, but also that there is no longer any men or women. As we know that gender is for life, then so too does being a Jew or Gentile.   Yet what we can take from the passages in Galatians is that in Adonai's eyes there are no difference. All believers are loved as one. For once we become true Believers then all the God's sees when He looks at us is the perfect person of Yeshua (justification). If God sees us as one, then why are we working so hard to divide what He has brought together?   The usual response I would get to this line of thinking is that the Messianic synagogues are more concerned with all things Jewish and to combat Replacement Theology. My response is two-fold; for if we read the Bible as the literal words of Adonai then we have no choice but to worship as a single congregation or church. Also, though I agree in combating all things that relate to Replacement Theology, when worshiping in a single house of God one should be able to retain their Jewishness...I know I have. The key is having a church that takes the Bible literally.   The next part of this lesson will tackle the view that Messianic Jews (or saved Jews) must practice all the doctrines of Torah (the Law).   Blessings. Olive Tree Theology, Part 2   In Part 1 of the Olive Tree Theology we discussed the false view that saved Jews (aka. Messianic Jews) and save Gentiles (Christians) should be separated in the houses of worship. Under the doctrine of Olive Tree Theology all Christians, Jew and Gentile, should worship in one congregation. In doing so, there should be no fear of losing ones cultural distinctiveness. As we are all baptized into one faith, so then we should all come together as one unified body of believers.   Today, we will discuss another dangerous trend that has emerged with the Messianic Jewish movement. This is strong need that many Messianic congregations have in observing Rabbinical Jewish traditions in the hope that this will show other Jews they are still Jewish. Now please do not mistake my point-of-view for as an evangelist to the Jewish people around the world (and also as my own growth as a Jew) there is a vital need to show other Jews we are still Jewish. In the steps of leading a Jew to Yeshua, the first step is often in establishing the precedent that they can be Jews and still believe in Messiah Yeshua. Yet, how do we do this? Do we establish our Jewishness by following rites and traditions we know to be false?   In my testimony of how I came to be a Believer in Mashiach I spent the past 30 years in study, both formal and informal. I have found that one of the greatest apostate falsehoods of Judaism is centered on the Oral Traditions (aka. Talmud). As believers we are told in Scripture that there is only one truth in our lives and that is the Word of God. But the Talmud are traditions and views held by the esteemed Rabbinical rabbi's since the Babylonian Exile. As a devout believer in Jesus I trust in God's Word. I came to the view that the Oral Traditions are just that traditions and not Scripture. I am not the only one who held this view, for Yeshua Himself denounced many of the traditions spoken by the early Jewish rabbi's.   So if we know that these traditions are simply the commentary of learned men and not Divine inspiration then why is it we continue to follow these traditions to the letter? Why is it many Messianic Jews of today (and not all by any means) feel they must act more like a Rabbinical Jew then their own family and friends? We must keep in mind that these traditions are each the viewpoint of a rabbi. Further commentary, by additional rabbis have continued to be made, often discussing the same thing! I just do not understand to the need to continue following false oral traditions. Allow me one further point. If we as saved Jews, continue practicing traditions that we know are false, will that not show are loved ones we are acting in a hypocritical fashion? I believe it is.   Under the view of Olive Tree Theology all Jewish Believers have the freedom to worship as they please as well celebrating Feast days. One of my favorite verses in Olive Tree Theology reads, Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ. Col 2:16-17 (KJV)   These verses simply state that we all have the freedom to be who we are as Believers if we are doing them "in Christ." For myself, the idea of following, preaching or teaching Talmudic views is a grave error on the part of many today. But if there are some who wish to do so, for the purpose of enrichment...more power to you. We just should never be preaching how wrong the Pharisees and Sadducees were while we continue to live as they did. .

I Am Adopted

I Am Adopted

I Am Adopted by Reverend Craig Logan All believers in Yeshua, the Christ, are to praise God in one voice. Ephesians 4:4says “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling.” The Church of Jesus Christ is but one body, regardless of heritage, culture, or perspective. And this diversity under one roof allows not only for a richer worship, but it allows the local church to reach more nonbelievers. Messianic segregationists hurt the body in the same way that other separations do. The Holy Bible does not support this principle. The body only functions at capacity when all of the parts are in welcome communication with one another. The Jewish race is still a chosen people with a special place in God’s ultimate plan, but all believers are adopted as it says in Ephesians 1:5 that God has “predestined us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will.”   Let me now develop a personal illustration for the point I am attempting to make.   I am adopted. This is one major way that I identify myself. I was born out of wedlock to a woman with two other children. Unable to support me, I was thrust into the foster care system. I praise the Lord that she choose life and gave me up for adoption. Knowing that her situation was not healthy, she hoped for a better life for the son she will never know.   At the same time, there was a couple that could not have children of their own that had one adopted child and was in the process of adopting another. These two wonderful people spent the better portion of six years filling out paperwork, interviewing with agencies, and sifting through legal red tape before they finally were blessed with their second child, me. I tell you this, not to boast about how special I am but to illustrate a greater Spiritual point. I, as I said before, am adopted, not only in my earthly family but also in my spiritual family. Romans 8:15 says that “ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear, but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.” Later in that same chapter, believers are called “children of God” and “heirs of God.” It is clear that the veil to the Holy of Holies is torn because we have the privilege to call the Almighty God our Daddy.   Now, what of the relationship between those children that were adopted and those that were born into the family of God? Just like any other healthy the adopted children eat at a separate table while the “real” family feasts, the adopted children watch adopted television while the “real” family watches “real” television in another room, and holidays are much more favorable to the “real” children as opposed to the adopted. Does this sound silly yet? But this segregation takes place in churches everyday between Jew and Gentile believers. The Jewish race is very special to God because they are chosen by Him to be His witnesses. They are still a testament to His love and mercy. All believers are born again into the family of God. For Jesus said in John 3:3 “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” The prophet Isaiah says also that “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid upon him the iniquity of us all.” Whether born into the family or not, our sin has divorced us from the family of God. It is only by Jesus’ shed blood that we are returned to him, or, in the case of the Gentile, brought to his for the first time. Just like my earthly parents spent years sacrificing and working on my behalf, so does God in the adoption of every sinner.   So, may we rejoice together. May we love together. May we serve together. Let us be a Holy and united family of God. Let us truly be “one body” in Christ Jesus. Amen.

WATCHMAN...False Doctrine

WATCHMAN...False Doctrine

"For false Christ’s and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect. But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things." Mark 13:22-23 (KJV)

"For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ." 2 Cor 11:13 (KJV)

For some time now I, as president of The Road to God Ministry, have been praying over the issue of the continued and escalating growth of false doctrine in today’s Christian church. As a Biblical literalist and a fundamentalist Christian I cannot help but to feel a hint of excitement at the acceleration of false teaching that is emergent in today’s world. I say this with the blessed assurance that Scripture announces the end of days and the times to precede Christ’s return (see Matthew 13:20-23).

What I have found disturbing is the lack of warning the fundamentalist Christian community has given in regards to the types of false doctrines that currently exist and just as importantly, who it is that is leading and teaching these movements. Ezekiel 33 tells us that as believers it is our job to act as Watchmen and to announce the coming of danger so others may be warned of what is emerging around them. That is what this page shall be about. If you know of a false doctrine or teaching, then I ask that you please send me any information through the ministry website.

Please note I do use one serious and ultimate criterion for stating what is false and what is a true doctrine of the Lord Jesus Christ and that is the Bible. I, too, know of being called a heretic and teaching false doctrine (see “My Response to Being Called a Heretic” page). The one defense and only defense I needed was the Bible. The following false teachings have no basis in Biblical doctrine, unless the teacher has changed Scripture into metaphors and analogies.

1. Two-Covenant Theology as taught by Pastor John Hagee 

2. Replacement Theology 

3. Church of the Latter Day Saints (Mormons) 

4. Doctrine of Infant Justification (Baptism) 

5. Judadizer/Torah (Law) Observance 

7. Jehovah Witnesses 

8. Pentecostal Speaking of Tongues 

9. Segregation of Messianic Jewish and Gentile Worship 

10. The Church of Scientology 

11. Dispensationalism 

12. Homosexual Clergy 

13. Transubstantiation 

14. Woman Clergy 

15. Doctrine of the Virgin Mary as a Co-Mediator 

16. Seventh-Day Adventist Church 

17. Gap Theory of Creation 

18. Prosperity Preaching 

18. Church of Christ, Christian Science 

20. Gentile Pauline Worship 

21. Those Who Say They Know The Exact Date For Christ's Return 

22. Psychics and ESP 

23. Unity/Unitarian Church 

24. ANYONE Who Declares A Path to Heaven OTHER Then Jesus the Messiah (John 14:6) 

25. Worship of Angels 

26. Satanism 

The Error of Replacement Theology

The Error of Replacement Theology

The Error of Replacement Theology by Dr. David R. Reagan of Lion and Lamb Ministries. This article has been placed here with the personal permission of Dr. David Reagan as of 12/14/2008.   For more information on Lamb & Lion Ministries, you can access their website at www.lamblion.com/main.php.   Dr. Reagan writes: The argument (for Replacement Theology) usually goes like this: “Since the Jews rejected Jesus as their Messiah, God rejected them. He poured out His wrath upon them, scattered them all over the Earth, and transferred the promises made to them to ‘Spiritual Israel,’ the Church. God has no purpose left for the Jews. The re-establishment of modern day Israel is, therefore, merely an accident of history with no spiritual meaning.”   There is no doubt that God poured out His wrath on the Jewish people in the First Century in response to their rejection of His Son, Jesus, as their Messiah. And there is no doubt they have remained under the discipline of God to this day. But that does not mean they have been rejected by God. God loves the Jewish people, even in their rebellion. In the everlasting Abrahamic Covenant, God told Abraham that He would bless those who bless Israel and curse those who curse them (Genesis 12:3). In like manner, He told the prophet Zechariah that he who touches Israel, “touches the apple of His eye” (Zechariah 2:8). Isaiah proclaimed that God could never forget Israel because He has them “inscribed on the palms of His hands” (Isaiah 49:14-16). Jeremiah stated that the Jewish people would exist as a nation forever (Jeremiah 31:36). And prophet after prophet asserted that in the end times, a great remnant of the Jews will be saved when they accept Jesus as their Messiah (Isaiah 10:20-22; Jeremiah 31:1-7, 31-34; Ezekiel 6:8-10; Daniel 12:1; Hosea 2:14-20; Joel 2:31-32; Micah 7:18-20; Zephaniah 3:12-13; and Zechariah 12:10).   “But,” say the Replacement Theologians, “all these promises were annulled by the Jews’ rejection of Jesus as their Messiah.” This assertion explains why chapters 9 through 11 of Romans have been the most ignored and despised chapters of the New Testament throughout Church history. Often, these chapters are simply dismissed as an “irrelevant parenthesis” in the book of Romans. But the truth is that they are anything but that. In these chapters Paul uses the Jewish people as the quintessential example of God’s grace. Despite their history of rebellion against God’s will, and their continuing rebellion, Paul teaches that God still loves them, still has a purpose for them, and is still determined to bring a great remnant of them to salvation in Jesus.   In fact, Paul repudiates Replacement Theology before he even gets to these chapters. He begins chapter 3 with two rhetorical questions: 1) Do Jews have any advantage with God? 2) Has their unbelief nullified the faithfulness of God? Historically the Church has answered the first question with a “No!” despite the fact that Romans 1:16 says pointedly that the Gospel is God’s power of salvation for “the Jew first.” With regard to the second question, the Church has consistently answered with a resounding “Yes!” arguing that God has “washed His hands of the Jews” because of their unbelief. But how does the Apostle Paul answer these questions? He responds in exactly the opposite way. He declares that the Jews do have an advantage because “they were entrusted with the oracles of God” (Romans 3:2). This is a reference to the fact that every book of the Bible (yes, I would include the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts) was written by a Jew. With regard to the second question as to whether or not God has rejected the Jews, Paul responds with great emotion, “May it never be!” (Romans 3:4). Paul returns to this theme in chapters 9-11. He begins by talking about how important the Jews have been in God’s redemptive history, and how important they continue to be (Romans 9:3-4):... my brothers, those of my own race, the people of Israel. Theirs is the adoption as sons; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises. Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of Messiah, who is God over all, forever praised! Note that Paul is talking about physical Jews, not spiritual ones, and note that he refers to the continuing validity of God’s promises to them. In Romans 9:27 he refers to the Old Testament promise that God will one day save a great remnant of the Jews, specifically quoting Isaiah 10:22. He begins chapter 11 with another rhetorical question: “I say then, God has not rejected His people, has He?” For 2,000 years the Catholic Church has answered this question with a dogmatic “Yes!” When the Reformation occurred, the resulting Protestant churches joined in the chorus. But Paul answers it by saying, “May it never be... God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew” (Romans 11:1-2). Again, he affirms that a remnant will be saved (Romans 11:5) by grace after “the fullness of the Gentiles has come in” to the Church (Romans 11:25). Then, as Paul considers the stubbornness of his brethren in contrast to the patient, lovingkindness of God toward them, he cries out from his heart, “Oh, the depth of the riches, both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!” (Romans 11:33).   It is only when you understand how much God loves the Jewish people and how determined He is to bring a great remnant to salvation, that you can begin to understand what is going on in the Middle East today . The Bible clearly reveals that the 20th Century regathering of the Jewish people from the four corners of the Earth back to their homeland is a supernatural act of God that is the first step in bringing about the salvation of a remnant (Isaiah 11: 10-12). Specifically, the Scriptures teach that once the Jews are regathered in unbelief and their nation is re-established, God will bring all the nations of the Earth against them over the issue of who is going to control Jerusalem (Zechariah 12:2-3). The hatred of the Jews and the opposition to their state will climax during the last half of the Tribulation when the Antichrist will turn against them and attempt to annihilate them from the face of the Earth (Revelation 12:12-17). During this terrible period of three and a half years, the Antichrist will succeed in killing two-thirds of the Jewish people (Zechariah 13:8). That’s the bad news. But the incredibly good news is that those remaining will be brought to the end of themselves, and in their total desperation, they will turn their hearts toward God. At that moment, Jesus will appear in the heavens, and the Jewish remnant “will look upon Him whom they have pierced; and they will mourn for Him, as one mourns for an only Son, and they will weep bitterly over Him, like the bitter weeping over a first born” (Zechariah 12:10). They will call upon the name of the Lord (Joel 2:31-32), and they will cry out, “Baruch Haba Bashem Adonai!” meaning, “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Matthew 23:38-39).   When I first started preaching about God’s love for the Jewish people and His determination to pursue them until a great remnant repents and accepts His Son as their Messiah, my wife said to me, “You make me want to be a Jew.” “No,” I responded, “you don’t want to be a Jew because the overwhelming odds are that if you were a Jew, you would have a spiritual veil over your eyes (2 Corinthians 3:14), and you would refuse to acknowledge Jesus as your Messiah.” And then I made a point to her that I encouraged her never to forget: “Ann, God is not doing one thing for the Jewish people that He is not willing to do for all of us.” Keep in mind, the Jewish people are God’s Chosen People (Deuteronomy 7:6). That does not mean they are saved. Rather, it means they were called by God to be witnesses of Him (Isaiah 43:10-12). Accordingly, when you study their history, you can come to an understanding of what it means to have a relationship with God. Their history shows that when you are faithful, God blesses. When you rebel, He disciplines. And when you repent, He forgives and forgets and starts blessing again (read the book of Judges). Currently, the Jewish people are under discipline. They have been for two thousand years. But one day soon their eyes will be opened to the reality of Jesus as their Messiah. When that happens, they will be overcome with grief, they will be swept by repentance, and a great remnant will be saved by grace through faith. God’s continuing love for the Jews despite their persistent spiritual rebellion is a great demonstration of the meaning of grace - second only to the Cross itself. People often say to me, “How could God possibly be behind the worldwide regathering of the Jewish people when they are still caught up in unbelief? The only thing they deserve is death.” But that is exactly the point. The only thing any of us deserve is death. But “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16). We can thank God that those of us who have put our faith in Jesus will never receive what we deserve. Praise God for His amazing grace! And praise Jesus for His willingness to suffer and die so that we might be reconciled to the Father.

Response to a Heretical Faith

Response to a Heretical Faith

Response to Being a Heretic In early February of 2010, The Road to God Ministry was made the target of an insulting paper claiming that “Olive Tree Theology” was a “false and heretical teaching” and should therefore be avoided by all true Christians. This paper was penned by one man who felt he had the "spiritual authority" to speak, not only for his congregation, but for all Christians, and in doing so create his own doctrine of what is right in the eyes of the Lord. In turn I cannot respond by judging, for to do so places a responsibility upon ones shoulders that goes far beyond the line of minister or even pastor.   Olive Tree Theology is a very simple doctrine. There is one olive tree of faith. Upon that tree existed two branches, Adam and Eve. When Adam and Eve betrayed our Lord they were cast off the tree to fall upon the earth where they eventually died. Before they died, new branches were born from Adam and Eve; branches like Cain and Abel. All of these branches had births of new branches time and again before their deaths. Yet note, none of these branches were upon the tree!   Thousands upon thousands of years later a branch emerged upon the tree, Yeshua. It was through the blood of this branch that was to be cut from the tree then ascend back that we too can be grafted upon the tree.   Everyone, Jew and Gentile have been upon the ground. Everyone! The only difference between the two is the Jew has had the DNA, the culture, the heritage of our ancestors. It is when we accept Messiah Yeshua, Jesus the Christ, as our Lord and Savior that we each, regardless if we are Jew or Gentiles, become grafted on to that mighty Olive Tree.   The Jew is on no better level then the Gentile believer. The Gentile is on no better level then the Jewish believer. With this being the case, why must we worship in separate house of the Lord? Is it because of culture? Is it of denominations? It is not because of the Bible! The Book of Acts shows Paul finding Jews to lead new Gentile congregations, to help teach them; not so they can be Jewish, but so they can learn the history of Christ. If we cannot worship with our brothers then there is a serious error in our current doctrine.   In Romans chapter 11, the Apostle Paul speaks of the olive tree. He speaks several important points regarding this...   16 For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. 17 And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; 18 Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. 19 Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in. 20 Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: 21 For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee. 22 Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. 23 And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again. 24 For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree? 25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. Romans 11:16-25 (KJV)   Now through the prior bible verses you will note several things and you will also note several things missing. The first item is that the natural branches, though they were once part of the tree, there is no time frame as to when. So this bears a simple question of logic. Are human beings born without sin? Are we born saved? Of course not! No one has since the time of Adam and Eve. As stated earlier, the natural branches are part of that olive tree; by being part of its true bloodline, but we were cut off just like everyone else. The Gentile are wild branches grown apart from the tree awaiting the opportunity to be grafted on the tree just as we are. Second, in all of the passages that Paul speaks of the olive tree and the branches, both natural and wild, it is important to notice that he ALWAYS uses the term grafted. By using this term he is stating a single graft or in other words that we are being grafted on for the first time. No where is he saying the natural branches are being re-grafted upon the olive tree which would have been proper if the natural branches were already on the tree and then cut off.   Now this is not to discount Antisemitism in any fashion. Nor do I discount Replacement Theology in any fashion. To be honest both issues are hot topics with me. I know for a fact first hand that both issues do exist in many Gentile churches. Yet, I am also learning more and more that they also do not exist in some churches. I am learning that many Gentile churches are simply waiting to learn more of their Jewish past but they are held back by fear and a lack of anyone to aid them. How are we as Jews supposed to teach our Gentile brothers of their Jewish past if we separate ourselves in Messianic synagogues? Plus I see nowhere in the New Testament that gives instructions that there should be two centers of worship, one for Jews and one for Gentiles. This idea of two houses of God is not of the Lord, but of man, as it is bred of the past two millennia of discrimination, fear, hatred, and false doctrine like Replacement Theology. It is up to us, both Jews and Gentiles to change this!   What do you think?

2008 WEA TC Berlin Statement on Jews

2008 WEA TC Berlin Statement on Jews

World Evangelical Alliance Theological Commission issues statement on Jewish Evangelism On August 26, 2008, the WEA Theological Commission convened in Berlin, Germany involving 13 scholars from various key seminaries and organizations. This delegation produced a 12oo-word statement to follow the New York Times ad and public news release of the earlier produced statement releaced by the WEA on Jewish Evangelism in the Spring of 2008. This clear and concise declaration affirms the European stand on Jewish Christianity and evangelism today. The Road to God Ministry would once again like to give its full support and applaud those responsible for this outstanding outreach of intellect and hard work! The Berlin Declaration on the Uniqueness of Christ and Jewish Evangelism in Eurpope Today   © WEA Theological Commission Task Force, 2008   An international task force of the Theological Commission of the World Evangelical Alliance met on the issue of the uniqueness of Christ and Jewish evangelism in Berlin, Germany, from August 18-22, 2008. We met to consider how our community might express genuine love for the Jewish people, especially in Europe. Participants included Christians from Germany and Messianic Jews. 1. Love is not Silent: the Need for Repentance   We deeply regret the all too frequent persecution of Jewish people in Jesus’ name. We do not for a second deny the evil it represents. During the genocide of the Holocaust, when the Jewish people were in their greatest peril, most Christian believers were silent. Many, such as The Stuttgart Confession of Guilt right after World War II, have apologized for the failure to speak out and for not doing more to demonstrate genuine Christian love to the Jewish people. Some of our brothers and sisters in the European Christian community suffered as well for resisting the anti-Semites and perpetrators of the atrocities. Many more today feel embarrassment and shame for the general failure to protest. As a result, there is an evident insecurity about relations with Jewish people. Also, there is a tendency to replace direct gospel outreach with Jewish-Christian dialogue.   We believe that genuine love cannot be passive. Jesus taught that authentic love could not be unfeeling when other human beings are in misery and need. Honest love must include an expression of Christ’s good news in word and deed. Therefore, Christians everywhere must not look away when Jewish people have the same deep need for forgiveness of sin and true shalom, as do people of all nations. Love in action compels all Christians to share the gospel with people everywhere, including the Jewish people of Europe. 2. Beyond Genocide: the Problem of Sin   We acknowledge within the sad record of European Christian history the “teaching of contempt,” intolerance toward Jewish people and Judaism, abhorrent acts of coercion, anti-Semitism in attitude, word and deed. The historical events of the Holocaust developed within a climate of anti-Semitism. The German Evangelical Alliance out of concern for that history has expressed shame and responsibility for Christian silence and too few attempts to stop the horror.   Jewish people interpret Christian failure to speak out as complicity in their genocide during World War II. However, there were some valiant Christians who did speak up, risking and sometimes losing their own lives to save Jews.   Jewish people interpret Christian failure to speak out as complicity in their genocide during World War II. However, there were some valiant Christians who did speak up, risking and sometimes losing their own lives to save Jews.   In light of rising European anti-Semitism and anti-Israelism vigilance is necessary now. Jewish people are not the only victims of genocide as evidenced today. The Holocaust survivor, Primo Levi, warned, “It has happened. Therefore, it can happen again.” The source of all genocide is sin. This sin affects all humanity, both the persecutor and the sufferer. God’s response to sin is the gospel. Therefore, this grace must be proclaimed to every human being. 3. The Solution for Sin: the Uniqueness of Christ   We recognize that genocide illustrates the enormity of sin. God is not responsible for genocide; we humans are. God has provided the solution.   It is often seen as unacceptable to challenge another’s religious views. Nevertheless, we regard failure to share the gospel as ignoring the problem of sin. No one should ignore Jesus’ assessment of human sin. Everyone needs what God offers by his grace: forgiveness of sin and a transforming divine presence in those who respond. Jesus did not seek to dominate, but gave himself on the cross as sacrifice for sin. His death cleanses from the guilt of sin and provides a new relationship with God. This benefit is neither earned nor entered into by birth. It is received through acknowledging our deep need for God to supply what we lack.   Confessing Jesus as Messiah affirms Jesus’ uniqueness as a person, especially to Jews, because Messiah (or Christ) is a Jewish concept. He is sent as the Word, anointed as Messiah and vindicated by God to sit at his right hand. Through resurrection Jesus shares in the divine glory, task, and authority. Jesus of Nazareth is more than a prophet or a religious teacher. Rather, he is the unique Son of God, mediating and administering God’s promise. By his divine authority, Jesus extends his offer to all. He exercises the divine prerogatives of forgiving sin and receiving worship. This is why we confess Jesus as both human and divine.   God calls believers to take the gospel to the world. Everyone needs to hear this message including the Jewish people. Proclamation to Israel was Jesus’ priority. It also reflects the apostles’ practice of going to the Jew first. Nothing has occurred since Jesus came that changes the need for Israel and the nations. 4. The Call to Action: Jewish Evangelism   Christians are called to share this good news, with sensitivity and humility. Witness to the gospel should be motivated by heart-felt love and expressed in practical ways. So, we stand in solidarity with the Jewish people, opposing anti-Semitism, prejudice and discrimination. This sinful behavior is irreconcilable with the calling of Christ’s disciples.   Most of all, we invite Jewish people and all others to consider the claims of Jesus. We share this gospel with Israel and all nations, not as an attack on the integrity of others. We uphold everyone’s right to freedom of speech, freedom of religion and an open forum for all. While respecting the views of others, we still challenge them to consider the message of the Messiah.   Christians have much to learn from the Jewish people. We recognise our need to hear Jewish concerns. We affirm the importance of dialogue in promoting mutual understanding and sympathy. Dialogue provides an opportunity to share deeply held beliefs in a context of mutual respect. Dialogue and evangelism are not mutually exclusive. We reject the notion that evangelism is deceptive in claiming that Jews can believe in Jesus. We also reject the accusation that evangelism is the equivalent of spiritual genocide. We affirm the right of Jewish believers in Jesus to practice those traditions that affirm their identity, reflect God’s faithfulness to his people and uphold the Messiahship of Jesus.   We recognise the important role of Messianic Jews in the work and witness of the Church. Their special contribution gives testimony to the Jewish origins of Christianity and brings understanding of our Jewish roots. They remind us of the Jewishness of Jesus and of the first Christians. They also point to the fulfillment of God’s promises to save his people. We encourage them to stand firm in their identification with and faithful witness to their people. The Lord is also glorified in the visible demonstration of reconciliation of Jew and German in the body of Christ. The Next Step   Therefore, as Christians concerned for the well being and salvation of the Jewish people, we call for:    Respect for religious conviction and liberty that allows frank discussion of religious claims    Repentance from all expressions of anti-Semitism and all other forms of genocide, prejudice and discrimination    Recognition of the uniqueness of Christ as the crucified, resurrected and divine Messiah who alone can save from death and bring eternal life    Reconciliation and unity amongst believers in Jesus    Renewed commitment to the task of Jewish evangelism   While the Berlin Declaration 2008 is not an official document of WEA, the Theological Commission is distributing it for study and consideration. Comments and responses are welcome and can be directed to the Theological Commission at tc@worldevangelicalalliance.com or 17 Disraeli St Indooroopilly Q Australia 4068.

2008 WEA Statement on Jews and the Gospel

2008 WEA Statement on Jews and the Gospel

THE GOSPEL AND THE JEWISH PEOPLE AN EVANGELICAL STATEMENT On June 26, 2008 the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) released a statement stating their position on the Jewish people and whether the alliance felt it was appropriate to evangelize to them. This statement also spoke of topics concerning the status of the Jewish people's condition of their souls without reconciliation with Messiah Yeshua and the status of Messianic Jews in todays society. The Road to God Ministry would like to add its full support to this statement as we wholeheartedly agree in every aspect of the increase of the lost Children of Israel into God's Kingdom!   As evangelical Christians, we want to express our genuine friendship and love for the Jewish people. We sadly acknowledge that church history has been marred with anti-Semitic words and deeds; and that at times when the Jewish people were in great peril, the church did far less than it should have. • We pledge our commitment to be loving friends and to stand against such injustice in our generation. At the same time, we want to be transparent in affirming that we believe the most loving and Scriptural expression of our friendship toward Jewish people, and to anyone we call friend, is to forthrightly share the love of God in the person of Jesus Christ. • We believe that it is only through Jesus that all people can receive eternal life (Acts 4:12). If Jesus is not the Messiah of the Jewish people, He cannot be the Savior of the World. • We recognize that it is good and right for those with specialized knowledge, history and skills to use these gifts to introduce individuals to the Messiah, and that includes those ministries specifically directed to the Jewish people (1 Corinthians 9:20-22). • We deplore the use of deception or coercion in evangelism; however, we reject the notion that it is deceptive for followers of Jesus Christ who were born Jewish to continue to identify as Jews (Romans 11:1). We want to make it clear that, as evangelical Christians, we do not wish to offend our Jewish friends by the above statements; but we are compelled by our faith and commitment to the Scriptures to stand by these principles. It is out of our profound respect for Jewish people that we seek to share the good news of Jesus Christ with them, and encourage others to do the same, for we believe that salvation is only found in Jesus, the Messiah of Israel and Savior of the World.