Common Jewish Objections to Jesus as the Messiah
Common Jewish Objections to Jesus as the Messiah
Jewish objections to Jesus generally fall into five main categories based on biblical interpretation, theological beliefs, and historical expectations.
1. The Messiah Was Expected to Fulfill Specific Prophecies
Jewish View: The Messiah must:
- Rebuild the Third Temple (Ezekiel 37:26–28)
- Bring universal peace (Isaiah 2:4)
- Gather all Jews back to Israel (Isaiah 11:12)
- Bring universal knowledge of God (Jeremiah 31:33–34)
Objection: Jesus did not fulfill these prophecies in his lifetime. Therefore, he cannot be the Messiah.
Christian View: Jesus’ mission is unfolding in two comings:
- At His first coming, He fulfilled prophecies about the suffering servant (Isaiah 53), bearing sin, and offering spiritual salvation.
- At His second coming, He will fulfill the remaining messianic prophecies, including peace, judgment, and restoration.
Support:
- Zechariah 9:9 shows a humble king riding a donkey (fulfilled)
- Zechariah 14 and Daniel 7 describe future victory and rule (awaiting fulfillment)
2. The Torah Is Eternal and Unchanging
Jewish View: The Torah is divine, complete, and unchangeable (Deuteronomy 13:1; Psalm 119). Any teaching that alters or overrides the Torah is considered false.
Objection: Jesus (or Paul) appeared to abolish or override Torah laws—such as Sabbath observance, dietary restrictions, and sacrificial laws—which contradicts the Torah’s eternal authority.
Christian View: Jesus did not abolish the Torah; He fulfilled it (Matthew 5:17).
- He deepened its moral meaning (e.g., internalizing commandments)
- He instituted a new covenant promised in Jeremiah 31:31–34, where God's law is written on hearts, not just tablets
Support:
- Hebrews 8–10 shows the Old Covenant as a shadow of the New
- Sacrifices were temporary; Jesus’ death fulfilled them (Isaiah 53, Psalm 40:6–8)
3. The Messiah Is a Human Leader — Not Divine
Jewish View: The Messiah is a rig