Do you ever wonder how Jewish leaders interpret the Old Testament passages that seem to so explicitly point to Jesus Christ? Do you ever wonder what a Jewish rabbi thinks about the messianic Jews that are growing in number? Do you ever wonder what a genuine, respectful dialogue between a Jewish rabbi and a Christian minister would look like?
The Christian and the Pharisee contains a series of letters between Dr. R.T. Kendall and Rabbi David Rosen. Both men are well-known and well-respected in their respective religious circles. The Christian and the Pharisee compiles their correspondence and features their discussion and debate regarding the pertinent issues that divide Jews from Christians. The friendship of these two men is evident in the books, even as the differences are sometimes starkly contrasted.
R.T. Kendall does not attempt to hide his desire to see Rosen evangelized and converted. His letters are overtly evangelistic, even as he respects Rosen and his faith. Rosen, on the other hand, does not consider his Judaism to be exclusive, and therefore, he affirms that Kendall may indeed be saved, even as he strongly disagrees with his Christian faith.
Just when The Christian and the Pharisee begins to delve into significant issues of Scriptural interpretation, the book comes to an end. I am not sure why these two men ended their correspondence so soon. Another set of 10 letters or so would surely not have exhausted this discussion. Perhaps a sequel will be in the works? Let’s hope so. The Christian and the Pharisee is a good read with significant insight into the differences between these two religions.
written by Trevin Wax © 2007 Kingdom People blog
