Much of Judaism’s criticism of Christian theology is blamed on ignorance of Hebrew. That reproach is standard and fair, but I also notice Judaism doesn’t understand the monotheistic Christian minority as a significant extension of monotheism. And I will admit many Christians don’t understand the truths that their faith is based. Nevertheless, it is essential to understand why Jesus and the father still come to the amount of one, that is, one in amount, not one merely in unity.
When we look into the heavens, the stars we see reside in the Milky Way Galaxy, yet the claim that we are looking at the universe is still accurate and true. So, by looking into the Milky Way, we are not lying to say we are looking at the Universe, but still, this view of the universe in no way comes close to being fulfilled. So too, when we lay eyes on the Son of God, even as a man, we see the father; the view is correct, not a lie, but also nowhere close to fulfilled. That is why this form of the One God is called the Son. The problem with conceiving this is when thoughts start from man to God instead of God to man.
So how do we handle the differences between God and a mere man?
“And also the Eternal One of Israel will not lie nor change His mind; for he is not a man, that He should change His mind.”
(I Samuel 15:29)
“Do not put your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no salvation!”
(Psalm 146:3)
Jesus of Nazareth is indeed considered a man, but this man was born of a virgin and was never married and fathered no children. Furthermore, there is nothing confirmed in the text reporting he ever changed his mind and plenty of documented evidence of his access to power unto salvation. Therefore, in the context of the above verses, there is no way the verses would specify the man from Nazareth, as recognized in the Gospels.
I am frustrated with my Christian community and my associates in mainstream Judaism regarding the concept of one in number. They seem not to know the power and discretion of God. Both fail to raise their interpretations above human experiences and views, whether they know Hebrew up-side-down, backward, or not. What began the Old Testament scriptures came through the spirit of God. That same spirit is available today if the mind is free of the cult effect: chains forged by teachers considered brilliant and infallible.
Jesus of Nazareth is the only one that comes close to fulfilling prophecies. Ever since he appeared on the earth, even in the midst of Judaism, the earth has not stopped shaking, an epicenter starting at that tiny point in the middle east, moving into western civilization, and then to the four corners of the world. He should be everyone’s champion! I challenge anyone to point to anyone else who comes close. If there is a nomination, I will for sure take note.
