Like all groups of people, especially within religions, there are aspects of Christianity that Christians disagree on, even though we have the same main beliefs in common. It’s the same within the Hebrew Roots Community. Although we all hold the same main beliefs, there are differences within those beliefs that vary among those in our faith.
But when Believers hold differing beliefs, we can still live in peace with one another as we’re one in our Messiah, Yeshua. What we believe differently shouldn’t separate us. Mature adults can disagree and still get along, especially Christians!
I’m highlighting these differences, not to shine a negative light onto the Hebrew Roots Movement, but to provide clarity where there may be confusion when those new to the Movement are exploring it.
Requirement to Keep the Law
All those in the Hebrew Roots Movement I’ve met or talked to believe we’re saved by grace and that the Law isn’t what saves us. I have to repeat this because it’s the most common misconception about the beliefs of those in the Movement and a huge reason traditional Christians disagree with and have animosity to those in the Hebrew Roots Movement. None of us believe we’re saved by adhering to the Law.
What’s debated here is what life should look like after we’re saved. Some in this Movement believe God wants us to keep all of the commands in the Old Testament as the God-designed best way to live. Others believe similarly with those in traditional Christianity, in which the Law no longer applies to us post-Jesus.
Among the debated topics are the dietary laws, which those in our faith may adhere to to differing degrees, or not at all. Kosher diets, eating Biblically Clean, and whether to mix meat and milk are among the dietary practices some disagree on.
Exchanging money on the Sabbath is another point of varying views. Although all Hebraic Believers keep the Sabbath, many don’t exchange money on the Sabbath to prevent not only themselves from working but to allow others to take the day off as well.
Celebration of Christian Holidays
Many in the Hebrew Roots Movement have given up the main Christian holidays, Christmas and Easter, due to the pagan origin and customs included in them. But there are others that still celebrate, under the context of them being holidays of their culture or family.
All Hebraic Believers observe the Biblical Holy Days to some degree, even if they disagree on whether we’re under the command to do so. We all agree that there are benefits to observing these days, whether spiritual or educational.
Sacred Names
All in the Hebrew Roots Movement treat the name of God with respect but some consider the more authentic names of God the only ones to be used. They’re opposed to the use of other terms to refer to God or replace His name and they prefer to use Biblically accurate names instead.
Whether to Include Jewish Traditions
This question comes into play often when Christians interested in the Hebrew Roots of their faith attend a Messianic Jewish Synagogue or are otherwise introduced to Jewish customs. Which of these are the “traditions of man” that we’re not to adopt and which are those that draw us closer to God and His Word?
Many refuse to include any traditions in the practice of their faith that aren’t specifically mentioned or commanded in the Bible to ensure they follow God and not man. For example, some say that Believers need to cover their heads but others regard this as merely a custom and deem it irrelevant.
The Star of David
Traditionally used as a symbol for the Jewish people or the nation of Israel, the Star, also known as the Magen David is a highly debated subject among the Hebrew Roots Movement. While some see its use as an expression of unity with Israel or the Jewish people, others view it as a pagan symbol or the Star of Molech, from Amos 5:25 and Acts 7:43.
Wearing of Tzitzits
While we’re on the subject of clothing, the wearing of tzitzits is also a debated topic. Wearing them is commanded in Numbers 15:37-41 and Deuteronomy 22:12, but whether to wear them, who is to wear them, and where on one’s person they’re to be worn are all topics of discussion.
Roles of Men & Women
The roles of men and women in the church and in family are also sometimes disagreed upon. The Bible uses the words “men” and “sons” literally sometimes, but at other times meaning all “mankind”, which would include women as well. This brings some confusion to subjects like who should wear tzitzits (above) or who should lead a Passover Seder.
What they DO agree on
Although there are a few things the Hebrew Roots Community disagrees on, there are many, more important things they agree on.
- Grace – We’re all saved by grace given through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. Adhering to the Torah is not what saves us.
- Biblical Authority – Both the New and Old Testaments are directly relevant to us and applicable to our lives.
- Importance of Holy Days – Whether we’re under a command to observe them or celebrate them for learn and deepen their faith, all observe them to some degree.
- Significance of the Hebrew Language in Bible Study – It seems almost everyone in this faith is either a beginner or a full-fledged Hebraist! The love for this ancient Biblical language is unmistakable.
- The Church did not replace Israel. We’re grafted in to the promises given to Israel but we do not take their place.
- Politics – This may seem out of place on this list but I find this very interesting. In all the Hebrew Roots groups I’m in, I find they may or may not disagree on many things but they agree on politics. I haven’t yet figured out why it’s this way but it’s very different from traditional Christian groups I’m in, where there are varying political opinions.
I hope this has brought some clarity to these differences in beliefs, which may be confusing to Christians exploring this faith. Our differences make for rich discussion and spiritual growth, both of which are to our mutual benefit.
