Why should a Jewish person consider becoming a Christian?
Many do not realize that Jesus and all of his original followers were Jews. The Christian religion is based on the belief that Jesus (or Yeshua) is the fulfillment of the Hebrew Bible's prophecies regarding the coming Messiah.Researchers have noted more than 300 unique prophecies concerning the Messiah in the Hebrew Bible that have been fulfilled in Jesus. For example, the Jewish prophet Micah predicted the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem: "But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days" (Micah 5:2). The Jewish teachers of the first century also noted this location as the place predicted for the Messiah's birth (Matthew 2:5-6).
In Genesis 49:10 in the Torah, there is also a prediction that the Messiah would come from the tribe of Judah: "The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him; and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples."
Psalm 22 provides a compelling picture of what would take place at the crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth. For example, verses 7-8 share, "All who see me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads; 'He trusts in the LORD; let him deliver him; let him rescue him, for he delights in him!'" These same accusations came from the mouths of those who watched Jesus on the cross (Matthew 27:41-44). Psalm 22:16 states, "they have pierced my hands and feet," a very specific reference to the nails that held Jesus to the cross. Verse 18 adds, "they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots." This was fulfilled when those at the cross cast lots to see who would get the clothing of Jesus (Luke 23:34).
Isaiah 53 offers perhaps the strongest account from the Hebrew Bible that Jesus is the Messiah, the Suffering Servant. Verse 5, for example, notes, "But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed." Jesus was nailed ("pierced") to the cross in our place, paying the penalty for our sins. His wounds bring us healing because His sacrifice provides the opportunity for eternal life for those who believe in Him (John 3:16).
Though the Jewish people largely rejected the Messiah at His first coming, you have the opportunity to accept Him today. The Messiah will return. When He does, He is coming for His servants. Perhaps G-d has led you here today in order to consider His words and believe in the Messiah Jesus (Yeshua). As the apostle Paul, a Jewish Christian, noted, "For he says, 'In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you.' Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation" (2 Corinthians 6:2).
Are you willing to place your faith in Jesus (Yeshua) as the Messiah? If so, make the decision right now. There is no special prayer you must pray to do so. All that is required is that "you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, [and] you will be saved" (Romans 10:9). However, the following prayer is one you can use to accept Jesus Christ as your Savior now:
"Dear God, I realize I am a sinner and could never reach heaven by my own good deeds. Right now I place my faith in Jesus Christ as the Messiah who died in my place and rose from the dead to give me eternal life. Please forgive me of my sins and help me to live for you. Thank you for accepting me and giving me eternal life."
Have you made a decision for Christ because of what you have read here? If so, please click on the "I have accepted Christ today" button below.
What do Jews believe? What is Judaism?
Why do most Jews reject Jesus as the Messiah?
As God's chosen people, are Jews automatically saved?
Where does the Old Testament prophesy the coming of Christ?
How do I receive forgiveness from God?
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