David Stern is best known for being the translator of the Jewish New Testament and the Complete Jewish Bible, so it is interesting to see how he tackles writing on this important topic. The book in hand is a partially revised version of his earlier Messianic Jewish Manifesto (1988) which was addressed primarily to Messianic Jews. This update is intended to be informative for those in favour of the Messianic Jewish movement, those opposed to it, and those who are just curious.

Theology of the Law

The book is well set out in clear sections and short subsections. The Contents page acts as a comprehensive guide, enabling the reader to find his way through what would otherwise be a lengthy and complex series of arguments as deep issues are explored.

Early in the book Stern tackles the surprisingly difficult matter of defining the term ‘Messianic Jew’, as well as assessing the opposition to Messianic Judaism both from the general Jewish perspective and that of Gentile Christians.
The main sections (each consisting of one chapter) are entitled ‘History’, ‘Theology’, ‘Torah’ and ‘Holiness’. Each one provides fascinating insights into how a Messianic Jew views these important topics. In particular, the author explains why a whole chapter is devoted to how Messianic Judaism should relate to Torah. Stern is certain that “the lack of a correct, clear and relatively complete Messianic Jewish or Gentile Christian theology of the Law is not only a major impediment to Christians’ understanding their own faith, but also the greatest barrier to Jewish people’s receiving the Gospel” (p125).

The lack of a correct, clear and relatively complete … theology of the Law is … the greatest barrier to Jewish people’s receiving the Gospel

Systematic contribution

Stern discloses that he had the desire to write this book for many years and over that time had thought a lot about the issue of Messianic Judaism. He was also aware that others had already written expertly and extensively on this subject and, although there is no Bibliography, he frequently mentions these authors and their works in the text or footnotes so that readers can pursue matters further if they so wish.

Stern writes in such a way that avoids giving an appearance of being the ultimate authority on the subject. Nor does he claim originality. However, he does assert that “If I have done something original, it is in writing with the purpose of stimulating action towards the goals of our movement. . . originality is less important to me than making a systematic contribution to an ongoing discussion” (p9).

In this the author has been successful and in particular his book will be helpful in the debate about the significance of the ‘one new man’.

Additional features

There are three appendices. Two shorter ones provide an update on Aliyah and some thoughts on the future of Messianic Judaism. The other is more substantial. Entitled ‘Restoring the Jewishness of the Gospel’ (this eventually became the title of the abridged version of the full book), this appendix “brings one simple message, namely, that unless the Church does everything in her power to restore the Jewishness of the Gospel, she lacks a key element of God’s message” (p239).
The book concludes with a glossary, scripture index and general index, all of which are extensive.

Stern’s book is not for the casual reader, nor can it be said to be simply an introduction to Messianic Judaism. It is a book for serious study, or at least for repeated reference. Either way it is well worth the time and effort needed to understand its message.

Messianic Judaism (320 pages), is published by Lederer Books, and is available from Book Depository