Clark M Williamson: Interpreting Difficult Texts [2012] paperback

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.