What is a Messianic Jewish Congregation?
A Messianic Jewish congregation is a congregation that meets on Shabbat (the seventh day Sabbath) and is generally constituted of Jewish followers of Yeshua as the Messiah. Messianic Jewish congregations are distinct from the traditional synagogue in that the congregation acknowledges Yeshua of Nazareth as the Messiah of the Jewish people and the Savior of mankind. Messianic Jewish Congregations are also distinct from the Church in that they are intended to enable and encourage Jewish followers of Yeshua to stay Jewish, meaning that Shabbat, the Jewish holidays, and life cycle observances are central in community life.
Is it appropriate for Christian Gentiles to attend a Messianic Jewish congregation?
In short, yes. Though each Messianic Jewish congregation may welcome Gentile participation in different ways, nearly all Messianic Jewish congregations acknowledge that there are Gentiles that feel “at home” as part of the Messianic Jewish community. It is important to keep in mind, however, that Messianic Jewish congregations exist to serve a unique purpose for the Jewish follower of Yeshua that they might be able to continue to live as the Bible instructs the people of Israel to live.
