Jewish

Great Commission Completion Plan Demographic

Jewish Countries

The Jews in Israel and the Jewish diaspora around the globe

Population

~23,000,000

Unreached

97%

Current GCA Phase

Phase 1 (Meeting)

Geographical Data

For our team’s strategies and planning, we include the Jews in Israel and the Jewish diaspora around the globe in the Jewish Demographic.

Together, Jewish people have a population of almost 23 million people, making up less than 1% of the world’s population.

This demographic is about 97% unreached, according to Joshua Project statistics, and only 0.7% of the Jewish demographic, just about 160,000 people, are evangelical Christians.

Background Information

The Jewish people, with a history spanning millennia, are known for their rich and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by the various regions they have lived in across the globe. Jewish cuisine reflects this diversity, combining elements from Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Eastern European, and North African traditions. Staple foods include challah (braided bread), matzah (unleavened bread), and dishes like latkes (potato pancakes) and gefilte fish. Kosher dietary laws, which dictate permissible foods and their preparation, play a central role in Jewish culinary practices. Holidays such as Passover, Hanukkah, and Rosh Hashanah feature specific traditional foods, each imbued with deep symbolic meanings.

Jewish art and customs are deeply rooted in religious and historical traditions. Jewish art often includes symbolic motifs such as the Star of David and the menorah, with intricate designs found in synagogue decorations, ceremonial objects, and illuminated manuscripts. Customs and rituals are essential in Jewish life, encompassing practices like circumcision (brit milah), bar and bat mitzvah ceremonies, and the observance of the Sabbath (Shabbat) from Friday evening to Saturday evening. Geographically, Jewish communities have been widespread, from ancient Israel to Europe, North Africa, and the Americas, each diaspora community adapting to its surroundings while maintaining a connection to shared religious texts and traditions. This geographic spread has led to a vibrant tapestry of Jewish cultural expressions, unified by a common heritage and religious faith.

A Brief History of Missions in this Region

The history of Christian missions to the Jewish people is complex and spans centuries, marked by both positive interactions and deeply troubling periods of persecution and forced conversion. Here’s an overview of key historical phases:

In the earliest years of Christianity, followers of Jesus, who were predominantly Jewish, initially focused on spreading their message within the Jewish community. However, as Christianity began to spread among Gentiles, tensions between early Christians and Jewish religious authorities increased. The New Testament documents some of these conflicts and debates.

With the rise of Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire in the 4th century, the relationship between Jews and Christians became more fraught. Jewish communities faced legal and social discrimination, and efforts to convert Jews to Christianity intensified. During the Middle Ages, Christian missions to Jews took various forms, including debates, disputations, and efforts to forcibly convert Jewish communities. In some cases, Jewish communities were subjected to violence and persecution.

In the 13th and 14th centuries, mendicant orders like the Dominicans and Franciscans played significant roles in conducting missions to Jews in Europe. These efforts often involved theological debates and attempts to persuade Jews to convert to Christianity. The Spanish Inquisition, established in 1478, also targeted Jews and conversos (Jews who converted to Christianity) suspected of practicing Judaism in secret.

The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century brought new dynamics to Christian-Jewish relations. While some Protestant reformers, such as Martin Luther, initially expressed sympathy for Jews, their attitudes often soured over time.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Protestant missionary societies, particularly in Europe and North America, launched organized efforts to evangelize Jews. These missions often incorporated elements of social welfare, education, and cultural assimilation alongside evangelistic activities. In the wake of the Holocaust and growing awareness of the history of anti-Semitism in Christian theology and practice, many Christian denominations reevaluated their approaches to missions to the Jewish people.

Today, Christian missions to the Jewish people continue to be a topic of debate and controversy, with diverse perspectives within both Christian and Jewish communities regarding evangelistic efforts targeting Jews.

Target Persona

Amos (and family)

This strategic report will include a target persona for this region, information that is relevant to reaching this area, and a strategy for GCA work there.

Biographical Background

Amos is our target persona for the Jewish people. His name means “to carry,” “born of God,” or “to be carried by God.” This name beautifully describes God’s love for His people the Jews. Amos is a second-generation Jewish American who was raised in a traditional Jewish household. He has a strong connection to his Jewish heritage and cultural identity, having grown up attending synagogue, observing Jewish holidays, and participating in Jewish community events. Amos’ family has instilled in him a deep appreciation for Jewish history, traditions, and values.

As a practicing Jew, Amos is deeply committed to his faith and religious traditions. He believes in the importance of maintaining a close relationship with God through prayer, study of scripture, and observance of Jewish laws and customs. Amos values family, community, and social justice, and he seeks to live a life guided by ethical principles and moral integrity.

Amos wrestles with questions of faith and spirituality, seeking deeper meaning and purpose in life. He is open to exploring different perspectives and engaging in dialogue with individuals from diverse religious backgrounds. However, Amos may feel hesitant or skeptical about engaging with Christian evangelism due to historical tensions and theological differences between Judaism and Christianity.

Amos and Leah, along with their two children Jacob and Rachel, epitomize the heart and soul of a vibrant Jewish family deeply rooted in tradition, faith, and community. Their home is a sanctuary of warmth and love, where the flickering candles of Shabbat illuminate the joyous celebrations of family and faith.

Amos is a dedicated husband, father, and software engineer whose unwavering commitment to his Jewish identity shapes every aspect of his life. Leah, Amos’ beloved wife and partner, radiates grace, compassion, and a steadfast devotion to her family and community. As a social worker specializing in family counseling, Leah brings empathy and insight to her role as a wife and mother. Their oldest child, Jacob, is enthusiastic about his Jewish heritage, Jacob eagerly participates in synagogue activities, youth programs, and educational initiatives that deepen his understanding of Jewish traditions and teachings. Rachel, the youngest member of the family, is a bright and spirited girl whose laughter and joy infuse every corner of their home with light and warmth.

Religious Details

A typical Jewish family like Amos’ typically observes a range of religious practices that are central to their identity and sense of community. This includes observing Shabbat with rituals like candle lighting and festive meals, celebrating holidays such as Passover and Hanukkah with special prayers and customs, attending synagogue services regularly for communal worship and Torah study, adhering to kosher dietary laws in their food choices and kitchen practices, and engaging in daily prayer and study of Jewish texts to deepen their spiritual understanding and connection to their faith. These practices are woven into the fabric of their daily lives, providing a framework for their Jewish identity, heritage, and relationship with God.

The religious characteristics of the Jewish people today are diverse and multifaceted, reflecting a range of beliefs, practices, and affiliations. Some key aspects include the following. 1) Orthodox Judaism: Orthodox Jews adhere strictly to traditional Jewish law (Halakha) and observance. 2) Conservative Judaism: Conservative Judaism seeks to maintain Jewish tradition while also allowing for some modern interpretation and adaptation. 3) Reform Judaism: Reform Judaism emphasizes personal autonomy and modernity. It tends to interpret Jewish law and tradition in light of contemporary values and practices. 4) Reconstructionist Judaism: Reconstructionist Judaism views Judaism as an evolving civilization rather than solely a religious tradition. It emphasizes cultural and communal aspects of Jewish identity while also valuing traditional practices and beliefs. 5) Secular Judaism: Some Jewish individuals identify with their cultural heritage and history without adhering to religious beliefs or practices. 6) Jewish Renewal: Jewish Renewal is a contemporary movement that seeks to revitalize Jewish spirituality and practice through creative and innovative approaches. Finally, 7) Messianic Judaism: Messianic Judaism accepts Jesus as the Messiah and is often considered to be outside the mainstream of Jewish religious practice by traditional Jewish authorities.

Cultural Dimensions

Geert Hoffstead’s cultural dimensions can help us understand how to better communicate and collaborate with people in different regions. We should never assume any individual in a certain region would perfectly match these cultural dimensions but understanding these patterns can help us be more effective in these areas.

The Jewish Demographic has an average power distance index of 29, so the distance between leader and follower is quite low; they are generally more egalitarian, exhibiting mutual recognition and respect. The average Individualism Index is 71, meaning they are quite individualistic but still maintain communal connections. The average motivation towards achievement and success is approximately 54, or about average; this means there is a roughly equal focus on achievements and relationships. The average Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI) for the Jewish Demographic, weighted by population, is approximately 65, slightly above average; this means they are somewhat open to new ideas and ways of doing things but also value predictability. The average Long-Term Orientation Index (LTO) is approximately 35, meaning they are somewhat more focused on the present than the future. Finally, the average Indulgence Index (IVR) for the Jewish Demographic, weighted by population, is approximately 55, just above average, meaning members have slightly more freedom than average to pursue personal desires.

To relate effectively to people in the Jewish demographic, both in Israel and the global diaspora, it’s important to understand their cultural tendencies. These communities generally value equality, personal independence, and open, direct communication. Success and achievement are moderately important, so highlighting ambition, competence, and results in discussions is appreciated, but not at the expense of collaborative relationships. While rules and structure are respected, flexibility and adaptability are also valued. Jewish communities often emphasize traditions, social responsibilities, and present-day concerns, making it important to respect cultural practices and immediate needs. While enjoyment and life satisfaction are appreciated, they are often pursued with a sense of moderation. Understanding and respecting this mix of personal autonomy, cultural traditions, and balanced lifestyles is key to building meaningful connections.

Regional Strategy

Summary

Reaching Jews with the Gospel holds profound significance for both individual Jewish souls and the broader Christian community. At its core, the Gospel message offers the promise of salvation and reconciliation with God through faith in Jesus Christ, fulfilling the deepest longings of the human heart for forgiveness, redemption, and eternal life. For Jewish individuals, embracing the Gospel represents a fulfillment of their ancestral faith’s Messianic hope, recognizing Jesus as the promised Messiah foretold in Jewish scripture. By encountering the transformative power of the Gospel, Jewish individuals are invited into a deeper relationship with God, discovering the fullness of spiritual truth and the joy of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Moreover, reaching Jews with the Gospel is essential for fulfilling the Great Commission mandate given by Jesus to His followers, calling them to make disciples of all nations. Recognizing the historical and spiritual significance of the Jewish people as the chosen people of God, Christians have a special responsibility to share the Gospel message with Jewish individuals, honoring their unique heritage and role in God’s redemptive plan. As Jewish individuals come to faith in Jesus Christ, they enrich the body of Christ with their unique perspectives, gifts, and insights, contributing to the unity and diversity of the global Christian community. By partnering with God in proclaiming the Gospel to the Jewish people, Christians participate in the fulfillment of God’s purposes, bringing hope, healing, and reconciliation to Jewish people throughout the world.

Strategic Considerations

Reaching Jews with the Gospel requires sensitivity, respect, and strategic engagement. Here are five important strategies for organizations seeking to share the Gospel with Jewish individuals:

Cultural Understanding and Sensitivity: Organizations must invest time and effort in understanding Jewish culture, history, and traditions. Recognizing the significance of Jewish identity and the deep-rooted connections to heritage, organizations should approach outreach with sensitivity and respect.
Educational Outreach and Dialogue: Providing opportunities for meaningful dialogue and educational outreach is crucial for engaging with Jewish individuals. Organizing events, seminars, and workshops that explore topics of mutual interest and address common questions about Christianity and Judaism can foster open dialogue and promote greater understanding.
Scriptural Context and Interpretation: Organizations should approach the Gospel message with an awareness of Jewish scripture, theology, and interpretation. Recognizing the shared heritage of the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) between Judaism and Christianity, organizations can highlight the Messianic prophecies and connections between Old Testament scripture and the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Providing resources and materials that explore the scriptural context and interpretation of key passages can help Jewish individuals understand the Gospel message within their own religious framework.
Building Authentic Relationships: Organizations should prioritize building long-term relationships with Jewish communities, leaders, and influencers, investing time in getting to know individuals on a personal level and understanding their unique backgrounds and experiences.
Prayer and Dependence on God: Above all, organizations must recognize the spiritual dimension of outreach to Jewish individuals and prioritize prayer and dependence on God’s guidance and provision. We must prayerfully seek God’s wisdom, discernment, and empowerment in sharing the message of salvation in Jesus Christ with Jewish individuals.

Trusting in God’s sovereignty and timing, organizations faithfully sow seeds of hope and redemption, trusting in God’s promise to draw all people to Himself through the power of the Gospel.

Risks and Obstacles

Reaching Jews with the Gospel presents several significant obstacles that organizations and individuals must navigate with sensitivity, wisdom, and perseverance. Some of the greatest obstacles include:

Theological Differences and Misconceptions: One of the primary obstacles to reaching Jews with the Gospel stems from theological differences and historical misconceptions between Judaism and Christianity. Jewish individuals may have theological objections to core Christian beliefs, such as the nature of the Messiah, the Trinity, and the role of Jesus Christ in salvation.
Cultural and Historical Trauma: Jewish history is marked by centuries of persecution, discrimination, and trauma, including events such as the Holocaust and expulsions from various countries. This collective memory of suffering and persecution can create deep-seated barriers to trust and openness toward Christian outreach efforts.
Fear of Assimilation and Identity Loss: Jewish identity is deeply intertwined with cultural heritage, religious traditions, and communal belonging. Many Jewish individuals may fear that embracing the Gospel will lead to assimilation into Christian culture and the loss of their Jewish identity.
Community and Family Pressure: Jewish individuals often face social and familial pressure to remain within the Jewish community and adhere to traditional religious beliefs and practices. The prospect of embracing the Gospel may be met with resistance or rejection from family members, friends, and community leaders.
Spiritual Warfare and Opposition: Spiritual warfare and opposition from spiritual forces can pose significant challenges to Gospel outreach among Jewish communities. The adversary may seek to hinder, discourage, or disrupt efforts to share the Gospel with Jewish individuals through various means, including spiritual deception, doubt, and persecution. Organizations must engage in fervent prayer, spiritual warfare, and dependence on God’s power and protection as they seek to proclaim the message of salvation in Jesus Christ and advance His kingdom among Jewish people.

Navigating these obstacles requires wisdom, sensitivity, and a deep reliance on God’s guidance and provision. Organizations and individuals engaged in reaching Jews with the Gospel must commit themselves to prayer, humility, and a posture of love and respect as they seek to overcome barriers and share the hope and redemption found in Jesus Christ.

Our Strategy

We are currently in Phase 1 (Meeting) in this region.
(Our 4 part GCA strategy includes Meeting / Mentoring / Mobilizing / Multiplying.)

Invite our prayer team to pray for the Jewish people on an ongoing basis.
Have our team read Dr. Michael Brown’s book.
(Phase 1) Continue traveling to Israel to meet local leaders and begin training and resourcing them.
Build partnerships with Jewish focused ministries.
Create a tract for Jewish people and begin translating our resources into Hebrew.
Develop a training that will equip Christians for basic apologetics and evangelism with Jews and include that with our standard trainings in Israel and with ministries across the world who are focused on reaching Jews for Jesus.
Use technology and social media to begin making inroads with Jewish populations.