Definition of Judaism and Christianity
Judaism and Christianity both have roots in the ancient Middle Eastern religious traditions, and both are monotheistic, meaning they believe in only one God. Judaism is an ancient religion according to which God revealed himself to the Patriarchs, or ancient leaders. According to Jewish tradition, the Jewish people were chosen by God to receive his revelation, and they are to act as an example to the nations of the world. Christianity is a much younger religion, having arisen approximately 2,000 years ago and claiming Jesus of Nazareth as its founder.
Similarities in Beliefs
At first glance, Jews and Christians worship the same God. Jews and Christians both revere the same written source, the Hebrew Bible. They have similar views of God, both viewing him as all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-loving. Additionally, for Jews and Christians alike, God is seen as a father-like figure who provides for them, guides them and is concerned about their welfare. Both Jews and Christians also believe in praying to God for guidance and strength, both believing that He will answer them.
Differences in Beliefs
Though Jews and Christians both believe in the same God, their beliefs about Him differ in some ways. Jews do not believe that Jesus was God, while Christians do. Additionally, while both Jews and Christians see God as all-knowing, all-loving, and all-powerful, Jews believe God to be distinct and separate from all humans, while Christians believe that God is present in all people through the person of Jesus. Jews also do not believe in the resurrection of Jesus, while Christians do. Finally, Jews and Christians differ on the interpretation of some of the Hebrew Bible’s laws, with some Christians seeing them as ceremonial, while Jews see them as commands from God that must be obeyed.
Divine Writings
Aside from the Hebrew Bible, Jews and Christians also have different divine writings. Judaism follows the Torah, the Jewish Scriptures, consisting of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible. Christianity follows the New Testament, a collection of 27 books written by the disciples of Jesus. The New Testament includes the four Gospels and other writings that tell of the life and teachings of Jesus, as well as offering advice on Christian living and beliefs.
Different Practices
Additionally, Jews and Christians have different practices concerning worship. Most Jews attend synagogue services on the Sabbath, while Christians attend church services on Sunday. Jews follow the many laws set forth in the Torah, while Christians do not. Jews also follow the dietary and ceremonial laws found in the Torah, such as avoiding pork and other unclean foods, while Christians do not. Christians, on the other hand, practice baptism, a ritual which commemorates one’s entrance into the Christian faith and forgiveness of one’s sins.
Theology and Differences in Beliefs
At a more theological level, Jews and Christians have different beliefs. Jews believe that God is one and indivisible, while Christians believe that God is composed of the trinity of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. According to Jews, the Hebrew Bible reveals the word of God, while according to Christians, the New Testament also reveals the word of God. Finally, Jews do not believe in a final judgment where good is rewarded and evil is punished, while Christians do.
Divinity of Jesus
Perhaps the most fundamental difference between the two faiths is the belief in the divinity of Jesus. Jews see Jesus as a prophet, while Christians see him as the Son of God, the Messiah, and part of the Trinity. Jews do not believe that Jesus is divine and therefore do not believe in the Trinity, while Christians believe that Jesus is divine and a part of the Trinity. This difference is the source of much debate and controversy between the two faiths.
Interpretation of Scripture
Another difference between Judaism and Christianity is their differing teachings on the interpretation of Holy Scripture. Jews view scripture as open to interpretation and reinterpretation, while Christians view scripture as closed, static, and not open to interpretation. Additionally, Jews believe in using independent reasoning and judgment in practical life, while Christians believe in relying on accepted teachings, such as those of Church Fathers and Councils.
Messianism
Finally, Jews and Christians differ in their beliefs concerning the Messiah. Jews believe the Messiah will come at the end of days to redeem the world, while Christians believe that the Messiah has come in the form of Jesus. Jews also believe that the Messiah will bring peace and justice to the world, while Christians believe that Jesus will bring salvation and redemption to the world. Additionally, Jews believe that the Messiah will be a human being, while Christians believe that the Messiah will be both human and divine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jews and Christians believe in the same God, but have different beliefs about him. Jews and Christians pray to the same God, but have different practices concerning faith and worship. Additionally, Jews and Christians have different scriptures and beliefs about the divinity of Jesus and the interpretation of scripture. Furthermore, Jews and Christians have different beliefs about the coming of the Messiah and its implications for the world. Though these differences in beliefs separate the two faiths, they ultimately both revere the same God.
