133 | Hebrew Roots Movement

Last week, Steve and Rich clarified which parts of Scripture are considered doctrine. This week, they explore what it looks like when a follower of Christ feels convicted to observe Old Hebrew practices. Steve introduces this as the Hebrew Roots Movement, which teaches that modern Christianity has drifted from Jesus’ original teachings and that the Torah should be restored to prominence. This can include rejecting Christian holidays, observing ceremonial laws, and using original Hebrew names for God.

They note that many drawn to this movement are seeking deeper meaning or “greater knowledge,” especially in response to areas where Christianity can feel superficial. While not everyone involved is part of a cult, Steve and Rich explain that the movement can create a pathway toward legalism, pride, and spiritual elitism. They also clarify that the Hebrew Roots Movement is distinct from Messianic Judaism and Black Hebrew Israelite beliefs.

The discussion highlights 1 John 3 as a key passage often used to support these views, particularly the phrase “lawlessness is sin,” which some interpret as a call to follow Old Testament law. Steve and Rich point out how this and other scriptures can be taken out of context, leading to misunderstandings about salvation in Christ. They close by offering practical wisdom for having loving, thoughtful conversations with someone who may be heading in this direction.

Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥

Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list

Questions or comments? Email [e-mail] 

If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.