A MESSIANIC SYNAGOGUE
By Dr. John FischerWhat is a Messianic synagogue? What are Messianic Jews? These are a couple of the many questions which are asked by people who first encounter Messianic Judaism.
As the term itself indicates, a Messianic synagogue is just that. It is a synagogue; it is Jewish. We incorporate the traditional Jewish forms and expressions of worship. We celebrate Shabbat and the Jewish holidays. We enjoy our traditions and love the G-d who graciously made them possible. We praise the G-d of Israel for the atonement he has provided and the life he has given us. We continually draw on our rich heritage and seek to share its beauty with others.
But, we are a Messianic synagogue. For centuries the devout among us have longed for the coming of our promised Messiah. We have found him! When he came, he fulfilled prediction after prediction made by Israel's ancient prophets. He said he came to carry out G-d's purpose for our world and made good on his promises to our people; his mission was one of fulfillment (Matthew 5:17). In other words (as the term "fulfill" means in the language he spoke), he would uncover the depths and riches of our Scriptures and our heritage; he would showcase our traditions in all their beauty and brilliance; he would pack our beliefs and practices full of significance and meaning!
© Copyright, 1986. Revised, 2000. Menorah Ministries.