Hello Everyone,

As my children and I finish up Unit 1, I feel compelled to write in regards to some of the verbage that was used in reference to Israel and the Jews. It is my heart that I would not come off as "dogmatic" but rather, it is my heart that many would consider what I have to say. It is beneficial to be mindful that Israel is not just the Jews. The Jews are specifically connected with the tribe of Judah. As we learned through our study in this unit, there are 10 scattered or lost tribes of Israel. Jesus says in Matthew that he came only to save the lost sheep of Israel. Paul tells us in Romans that we are grafted into the olive branch (Israel) through the Messiah, Jesus. It is difficult to determine if we are truly a native born of Israel, but we know that we are Israel because we have been grafted in and therefore in a covenant relationship with God. It is my hope that many will consider the error in phrases such as "The Feasts of the Jews". One would not be able to find such verbage in the word of God. The Bible is clear about saying that these are the "Feasts of the Lord" and He gave them to Israel and asked them to observe and delight in them forever. Along the same line, Saturday is not the "Jewish Sabbath" it is God's Sabbath and the same Sabbath he asks us to remember and keep holy in the ten commandments. Finally, not all of Israel are Jews even though all of the Jews are part of Israel. We were once "lost sheep" and there are many others out there today. He has revealed Himself to you and me and may we all be sharpened arrows to be used to "harvest" many more for God's chosen people. . .Israel. Lastly, my family and I celebrate the Biblical Feasts and they are a delight to us. They provide such rich study material of God's word and help us to be mindful and purposeful in our understanding of our Hebraic heritage.

Thank you for your time and consideration of this matter.

Breta Schutte

Hi Breta,
Thanks so much for sharing your points about this, and I definitely understand your view. I will share your thoughts with others on the writing team.

Blessings,