What Is The Kesher Course?
13th April 2019
The Kesher Course is a course published by Christian Friends of Israel (CFI) in 10 Sessions with DVDs, a Leader and Student books. It is designed to enlighten people to make the connection between Judaism, Christianity, Israel and the Church.
The main teachings are by Roy Thurley, with Hebrew word studies by John P. Smith.
The course explains how historically the Church has attempted to distance herself from Judaism. Art has often portrayed very inaccurate pictures of Jesus, often with white skin, fair hair and blue eyes. Although there is no historical record of what Jesus actually looked like, He was likely to have had an olive complexion given where He lived and His genealogy.
Supported by Scriptures throughout, the Kesher Course confirms the Jewishness of Jesus. His genealogy is recorded in Matthew 1:1-17 and Luke 3:23-28.
In biblical prophecy we see that the Messiah must be descended through Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Judah, Jesse, David and also Zerubbabel (Haggai 2:23). These requirements are all met in the genealogy of Jesus for Him to be in the right line to be the Messiah.
He also fulfilled the condition of circumcision according to the Covenant God made with Abraham. (Genesis 17:10, Luke 2:21).
Israel’s Rejection Is Not Final
For those who believe Israel and the Jews have been replaced by the Church:-
“I say then, have they stumbled that they should fall? Certainly not! But through their fall to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles.” (Romans 11:11)
Romans 11 verses 17-18a show that some branches (Israel) were broken off and we (Gentiles) being “a wild olive tree” were grafted in.
We are warned not to boast against the branches “For if God did not spare the natural branches, He may not spare you either.” (Romans 11:21)
“And they also, if they do not continue in unbelief, will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again.” (Romans 11:23)
“And so all Israel will be saved as it is written:….” (Romans 11:26)
Our Lord and Saviour Christ Jesus or Yeshua, was born a Jew of Jewish line, died a Jew, was resurrected and is now seated at the right hand of the Father, and will return as a Jew.
“I Jesus have sent my angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.” (Revelation 22:16)
We as Christians have been grafted into that tree as in Romans 11:17-18a, and as such, we have become part of that family in Christ Jesus, our Lord – Yeshua.
So think carefully about how you treat and speak about God’s chosen Nation and people.
“Assuredly, I say to you, in as much as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.” (Matthew 25:40)
I believe that this course should be promoted by the Christian Church.
This will enhance your Bible studies too by helping you to understand Hebrew roots, some Hebrew vocabulary and Hebraisms, but above all to help reduce anti-Semitism and replacement theology.
Suzanne Ashton