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Israelism
| Even in the midst of
increasing anti-semitism, a number of Christians adopt Jewish customs,
rituals, feasts, and practices for various reasons. Some subscribe to
British Israelism others see in these traditions a way to feel through
experience a connection to biblical practices. Some feel this is
justified or even required based on biblical references.
There can be less noble motives as well. One can feel that through
their accomplishment, they are accumulating favor with God which is
sadly similar to the Pharisees. Some may find it pleasurable, like a
child playing “dress up”, to act out a part. Still others may be
sincere in trying to fulfill what they see as biblical requirements.
One of the more frequent observances is Sabbath keeping. There are
entire denominations devoted to this practice.
Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to observe the
sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six
days the LORD made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested,
and was refreshed. - Exodus 31:16-17
It seems pretty clear that Sabbath keeping is a sign for God’s covenant
people, Israel. Some pastors also make a strong advocacy of tithing
which was how the tribe of Levi was to be supported in Israel since
they were not given any land.
Some see in the return of Jews to the land of Israel in 1948 the
prophesied re-gathering of the nation of Israel. Some more orthodox
Jews were opposed to that re-gathering as they saw in scripture that
the re-gathering would be done by God.
Paul wrote the Galatians who were being told that they needed to follow
the law given to Israel in order to be complete Christians. He told
them that if they followed the law and were circumcised, Christ would
profit them nothing (Gal 5:2). The appeal of what we can accomplish is
part of the attraction of Jewish culture and tradition. If one think
that he is able to add to his condition by demonstrating piety through
observing Jewish customs, he is trusting in himself and his faith is
misplaced.
Mat 6:5 `And when thou mayest pray, thou shalt not be as the
hypocrites, because they love in the synagogues, and in the corners of
the broad places--standing--to pray, that they may be seen of men;
verily I say to you, that they have their reward.
There can be many different reasons for attempting to copy Jewish
practices. However, there are dangers that should be recognized. If one
sees themselves as having done something pious, he may have his faith
in himself instead of Jesus. If one wants the approval of others, he
may already has his reward. If one seek to satisfy an emotional hunger,
he may be following a path similar to drug addiction or alcohol abuse.
Before considering copying that of Israel one should consider how often
they failed to keep the law and how often they were chastised for their
failures. Christ would seem to be a better way to approach God.
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