The True Jew
Reverend Fred Klett, CHAIM Ministry

Who is a true Jew? Well this is certainly a debated point and one that many in the Jewish community disagree on! Traditionally a Jew is anyone who has a Jewish mother. This has proved problematic, however, because now some branches of Judaism also recognize anyone of a Jewish father as Jewish! Also, in the Bible, lineage is traced through the father. Certainly lineage is one way to understand this question, and God has great interest in the descendants of his servant Abraham. But is there more?

I think the ultimate answer must be found in the writings of Moses and the prophets. Moses commanded Israel: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might." (Deuteronomy 6:5) He also exhorted the people that they must be circumcised in their hearts, not just their flesh. Being a true Jew has always meant loving the Creator and having your heart renewed and purified. There have always been those among the physical descendants of Abraham who were also the Israel of the Spirit in addition to being Israel by descent.

But also, at all times in Israel's history, Gentiles could embrace the covenant, be circumcised, and join in the worship of the true God. The prophets foresaw a time when Gentiles would join themselves to Israel. Abraham was promised that through his descendant blessing would come to all nations. The Messiah is that descendant. The prophet Isaiah wrote of Messiah:

"I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth." (Isaiah 49:6)

So, in my understanding, all who worship the God of Israel truly in their hearts are Jewish in a spiritual sense. It is my prayer that both the physical descendants of Abraham and also those who follow the faith of Abraham will one day come together in love and unity before their Creator.

(Yevreyskaya Zheezn, September 20, 2000, Philadelphia)