Monday, July 29, 2024

Jews as the Chosen people - NT saints as spiritual Jews

The Chinese had sometimes been nicknamed "Jews of East". Though most are still atheists (communist/socialists), many had embraced Yeshua HaMachiach aka Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and Lord thus making them partakers of the Abrahamic covenants aka spiritual Jews.

There are only 0.02 per cent of Jewish population in the world whereas there are 0.20 per cent of Arabs yet in terms of economic, military and educational achievements, they are far ahead of the rest. Why? Quote scriptures in support in their original language and give real life illustrations in support.

The remarkable achievements of the Jewish community, despite their small population, can be attributed to a combination of cultural, historical, and religious factors. Here are some key points supported by scriptures and real-life illustrations:

1. Cultural Emphasis on Education and Knowledge
- **Scriptural Basis:** The Torah, which is central to Jewish life, emphasizes the importance of education and the pursuit of knowledge. In Proverbs 4:7, it states, "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding" (חָכְמָה רֵאשִׁית קְנֵה חָכְמָה וּבְכָל-קִנְיָנְךָ קְנֵה בִינָה).
- **Illustration:** Historically, Jewish communities have placed a high value on education. This is evident in the tradition of studying the Torah and Talmud, leading to a strong intellectual tradition. For example, many Nobel Prize winners in various fields are of Jewish descent, demonstrating a legacy of scholarly excellence.

2. Unity and Community Support
- **Scriptural Basis:** In Deuteronomy 15:7-8, there is a commandment to help those in need, promoting a sense of community and mutual support: "If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates in thy land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother" 
(כִּי-יִהְיֶה בְךָ אֶבְיוֹן, מֵאַחַד אַחֶיךָ בְּאַחַד שְׁעָרֶיךָ--בְּאַרְצְךָ, אֲשֶׁר ה' אֱלֹהֶיךָ נֹתֵן לָךְ, לֹא תְאַמֵּץ אֶת-לְבָבְךָ, וְלֹא תִקְפֹּץ אֶת-יָדְךָ, מֵאָחִיךָ הָאֶבְיוֹן).
- **Illustration:** The Jewish concept of "Tzedakah" (charity) and community welfare has historically ensured that resources are shared, and education and healthcare are accessible, fostering a supportive environment for personal and communal growth.

3. Resilience and Perseverance
- Scriptural Basis:
Jewish history is filled with periods of persecution and diaspora, yet the community has shown resilience, often seen as a fulfillment of the prophecy in Isaiah 41:10, which encourages strength and fearlessness: "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness" 
(אַל-תִּירָא כִּי עִמְּךָ-אָנִי אַל-תִּשְׁתָּע כִּי-אֲנִי אֱלֹהֶיךָ אִמַּצְתִּיךָ אַף-עֲזַרְתִּיךָ אַף-תְּמַכְתִּיךָ בִּימִין צִדְקִי).
- **Illustration:** The establishment and development of the State of Israel is a testament to Jewish resilience. Despite numerous challenges, the country has become a leader in technology, military, and economic sectors.

4. Religious Motivation and Identity
- Scriptural Basis:
Many Jewish teachings emphasize the importance of being a "light unto the nations" (Isaiah 49:6) and striving to uphold ethical and moral standards.
- **Illustration:** This sense of purpose and responsibility can be seen in Jewish contributions to various fields, including science, literature, and humanitarian efforts.

The unique combination of these cultural, religious, and historical factors contributes to the Jewish community's achievements in various domains.

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