The Orthopractic Approach This approach is one of authenticity . It seeks to have Messianic Judaism as “ a Judaism ” and fashions itself in more of a synagogue-like environment . Aspects of this approach are beautiful ; the appreciation of our rich Jewish tradition , covenantal faithfulness to Torah , developing strong Jews with knowledge of Hebrew and living a Jewish life that is “ normative .” Unfortunately , the longing of many of these groups to have acceptance within the wider Jewish world can result in inadvertently putting Yeshua on the backburner with our people . This approach can be fueled by the fear of the “ imaginary Jewish visitor ,” who finds Messianic Judaism to be too “ churchy .” The service , language , and culture for them must be as authentically Jewish as possible in order to not offend . Yeshua may be mentioned , but He is often limited to the sidelines , not central to our life and worship , a trait that weakens our fruit . Some may even limit the scope of their congregation to only Jewish people .
The Jew in the Pew This approach can also be called Jewish-lite . Often this approach celebrates the rich culture of being a Jew , yet rejects most of the things associated with Judaism , Torah , and tradition . Yeshua is central , and evangelism is encouraged along with strong emphasis on the Bible which is correct . However , there is very much a lack or even total rejection of Jewish tradition and identifying within larger Israel . “ Biblical Judaism ” reigns supreme here , and there is a hostility to Jewish prayer and even liturgy . These things for the Jew in the Pew , are seen as “ dead ”.
Paul as Our Example Paul is by far one of my most favorite people in the Bible . His approach is what I believe will help our movement to build a healthier Messianic Jewish identity . Paul called himself a “ Hebrew of Hebrews ” ( Phil . 3:5-6 ) who went first to the synagogues of Asia Minor as was his custom ( Acs 13:5 , 14-15 , 14:1-2 , 17:1-3 ) and preached a radical unity message of Jews and Gentiles being one in Messiah and worshiping together . ( Ephesians 2:11-22 )
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