Judaism: An Overview of Its Doctrinal Development

Abstract

This essay offers a comprehensive historical and theological survey of Judaism, tracing its doctrinal evolution from biblical times to contemporary American expressions. Pastor Beckman begins with personal reflections on growing up alongside Jewish peers, highlighting the spiritual disconnect he perceived. He then explores the diversity within modern Judaism—Orthodox, Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist, and Hasidic—emphasizing their varied beliefs about God, Scripture, and salvation. The paper delves into the intertestamental period, examining the rise of influential groups such as the scribes, Pharisees, Sadducees, and the Sanhedrin, and the impact of Hellenistic philosophy. Beckman critiques the development of oral tradition and its codification in the Mishnah, Talmud, and Midrash, arguing that these texts often distort the gospel message. Interviews with contemporary rabbis underscore Judaism’s theological departure from biblical revelation. The essay concludes with a call for Christian outreach to Jews, grounded in the conviction that salvation is found only in Christ. —Generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)