The Hebrew Roots Movement: A critical analysis of its origins, teachings & biblical interpretations

by Rubén Gómez

The apostle Paul did not confront the HRM, but Jews, his compatriots, who wanted the gentiles who believed in the Messiah to become Jews first (cf. Gal 5:1-4; Acts 15:1, 5). As for Messianic, it comes from the word Messiah (from the Heb. mashiach, anointed), just as Christian derives from Christ (from the Gr. christos, anointed). Strictly speaking, all Christians are Messianics, and all Messianics are Christians. I know that Judaizer is used very frequently in a colloquial sense, but it behooves us to clarify whom we refer to. Not all Jewish things are Judaizing. The same applies to Messianic. There are Jews and Messianic gentiles who regularly meet in Messianic assemblies, but let us not forget that Christian churches are also Messianic. There are Hebrew rooters with whom it is impossible to hold a reasonable conversation. They are so fanatical and sectarian that trying to use logical arguments with them is a waste of time. However, others are seemingly able to reason and listen. Love them all, but focus on the latter group. Do not use words like cult or heresy lightly. Some feel hurt by Christianity, and this kind of language will alienate them even more. If at all possible, it is better to share than to confront. Learn