Interpreting Difficult Texts: Anti-Judaism and Christian Preaching - Softcover

Christians frequently preach anti-Judaism in the church without even knowing it. Such preaching is not only offensive to Jews but a misunderstanding of the gospel. This volume shows how to identify anti-Judaism in the Bible, in worship, and in preaching, and how to avoid it. Williamson and Allen begin with a description of how anti-Judaism is present throughout the church's history. Then follows a study of specific New Testament texts, resulting in a demonstration of where anti-Judaism has crept in and why. Concluding chapters focus on what can be done with these difficult texts, and on what preaching and worship services without anti-Judaism will look like. Even in an age of increased understanding between Jews and Christians, this work provokes, challenges, and enables us to do better.

Clark M. Williamson is Indiana Professor Emeritus of Christian Thought at Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Ronald J. Allen is Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters at Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana. He is the author of several books on preaching including Sermon Treks: Trailways for Creative Preaching from Abingdon Press.