How are Christianity and Judaism different?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Although Judaism and Christianity share some similarities, the main differences between them are that Jews do not accept Jesus as the Messiah, do not believe in the Trinity, and do not accept the New Testament as inspired Scripture. Both religions are monotheistic (Deuteronomy 6:4), believe God created and sustains all of creation, and that He is omnipotent, omniscient, and perfect in every way (Genesis 1:1; Nehemiah 9:6; Job 42:2; 1 Samuel 16:7; Exodus 34:6-7; Psalm 103:10-14). But Jews believe Jesus to be a teacher, not the Messiah (John 14:6). They do not accept the doctrine of the Trinity, so unlike Christians, Jews do not believe Jesus is God (John 1:1, 5:39, 8:58-59; 10:33). They also do not accept the New Testament as inspired Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16). Since Jesus’ identity, His crucifixion for our sins, and His resurrection are key to Him saving us from sin, the differences between Judaism and Christianity are significant (1 Corinthians 15:17-20).

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Jew and Christians are monotheistic, but Jews do not accept the doctrine of the Trinity, and they point to passages like Deuteronomy 6:4 to support their view. But Christians also accept the oneness of God—One God revealed in three distinct Persons.
• Both religions believe that God is the Creator and Sustainer of all (Genesis 1:1; Nehemiah 9:6)
• Both Judaism and Christianity believe that God is omnipotent, omniscient, loving, just, and merciful (Job 42:2; 1 Samuel 16:7; Exodus 34:6-7; Psalm 103:10-14).
• Though Judaism does not accept Jesus as the Messiah, the Old Testament contains references and prophecies about Jesus Christ. Isaiah 53, also called "The Suffering Servant," perfectly describes Jesus and His trials and crucifixion.
• Psalm 22:14–18 also describes Jesus' crucifixion in great detail: "I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax; it is melted within my breast; my strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to my jaws; you lay me in the dust of death. For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet—I can count all my bones—they stare and gloat over me; they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots."

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• Christianity's foundation is built upon the personhood, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christians believe that Jesus is one with God (John 1:1) and became man to restore the rift in God and man's relationship that occurred as a result of the fall (John 1:14).
• Christians rely on Jesus' death and resurrection as the only payment for the sin that separates man from God and believe that only faith in Christ and His work can cleanse us from our sin (John 14:6).
• Jews believe that the messiah will be a man sent by God to restore the nation of Israel and bring peace to the world. This was what the Jews in Jesus' day expected of Him. When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey just a week before His crucifixion, they hailed Him as a military hero who would save them from Roman occupation (John 12:12-13). When they quickly learned that Jesus was not going to do this, they turned against Him and demanded His crucifixion (John 19:14-15).

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Have you ever participated in this corporate ice-breaker? The audience gets into small groups and must identify five non-obvious things all group members have in common and one unique thing about each person in the group. It’s a fun way to get to know others by emphasizing commonalities while acknowledging individuality.

If Jews and Christians were to do that icebreaker, they would easily find five commonalities. But the difference would be massive: How those in each religion would answer the question, “Who is Jesus?” Jews might answer “good man” or “wise teacher.” But Christians would answer, “God.” That difference in perspective is life-changing—in fact, it’s the difference between eternal life and eternal separation from God.

When Jesus asked His disciples, “But who do you say that I am?”, Peter responded, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:15-16). That answer is the only correct response. Christians should use their commonalities with Jews as an opening to share with them the life-saving knowledge of Jesus. On this, all believers should agree.

UNDERSTAND

• Both Christianity and Judaism are monotheistic, but they differ on Jesus’ identity.
• Christians see Jesus as Messiah and God; Jews see Him as a teacher.
• Belief about Jesus and the Trinity defines the core difference in salvation views.

REFLECT

• How does your belief in Jesus as Messiah shape the way you view God and salvation?
• How does believing in Jesus being both fully God and man impact your faith and relationship with God?
• How might understanding Judaism’s perspective on Jesus deepen your appreciation for God’s plan of salvation?

ENGAGE

• How do our shared beliefs in one God create common ground for dialogue between Christians and Jews?
• How do the differing views of Jesus affect how Christians and Jews understand redemption and eternal life?
• How can we respectfully explain the significance of the New Testament to those who do not accept it as Scripture?