All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; but the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him. - Isaiah 53:6
One reason Christians are hesitant to witness to Jewish friends is that we just don’t know how to approach the subject. Here are some ideas:
- Be a friend first. Show the love you have for that person and that you care what happens to them. Within the relationship, you might ask some questions like, “What do you think about what’s going on in the Middle East today?” Or, “What does your family do at Passover?”
- Show love to a Jewish friend by saying, “Would you be willing to let me visit synagogue with you so I can learn more about the Jewish faith?” Often we Christians don’t take the time to show interest in their beliefs.
- When the timing is right, read Isaiah 53 to them and ask, “Who do you think this passage is talking about?” Most will respond, “That’s talking about Jesus.” And then say, “Do you know where that is?” And they will usually respond, “It’s obviously in the Christian Bible.” But then show them, “No, it’s the Jewish prophet Isaiah, more than seven hundred years before Christ came, prophesying of Christ’s death.” That’s a biblical connection that might create some openness to look further at Jesus.
So, build the relationship; then build on the relationship.