Before writing the actual review of Yeshua: Getting to know the real Jesus, I would like to be a witness for the character of the author, James D. Crawford Sr. After much correspondence with Mr. Crawford and by reading his previous book, Born Again to Raze Hell: A message to the body of Messiah, I have grown to known and love Mr. Crawford. He is a kind and compassionate man whose only goal is to show Yeshua to our Jewish brethren and the Torah to our Christian brethren. The reader can readily see this same love that I speak of on the page nearing Mr. Crawford's book:
"I love my Christian brethren beyond words. My heart aches for them as they stumble around in the darkness that they have to see as the light. [...] I welcome correspondence with any brother or sister than [sic] desires fellowship. If you have questions, you can write me or e-mail me. [...] I am no one of great importance or stature. I am just a person like you." (pp. 203, 204)
Before becoming introduced to Mr. Crawford and his books, I came out of Christianity and was very cautious of any teaching by man. In this book, however, James preaches a continual loving message - from front to back -, and that message is repent. To the Christian, to repent of their idolatrous ways and rebellion against Yahweh; and to the Jew, to repent of their rejection of their own King, Yeshua Messiah, and their rejection of the written Torah given at Mount Sinai.
Another continual theme that is sounded throughout this book is the answer to an important question, which we've all once asked: Who are we? Who am I? Am I a Gentile? Am I a Jew? What does it mean when it's written I'm of Abraham's seed? After reading James' book, the reader who trusts in Yeshua will know, without doubt, that they are part of Israel - Yahweh's chosen people.
Even though at many times during the book, the words are a sharp sword, you will also notice that the words are from a loving man who seeks to see the lost sheep saved - for all of them to come to know the true Messiah and the Torah of Yahweh. Interwoven throughout the book, it can be said it is a sharp rebuke while at the same time being a loving embrace into Israel and the covenant associated with it.
Along with this message, he also answers popular excuses for avoiding the Torah. Did Yeshua go against the Torah? Did He do away with the law? After reading this book, without doubt, the reader will be able to conclude that Yeshua did the exact opposite. Yeshua taught Torah, Paul taught Torah, everyone in the Renewed Covenant taught the Torah. He also goes on to explain why the one-house theory (Judaism) is wrong while the two-house theory (Judah, Ephraim/Israel), which is a wonderful surprise.
Overall, the book is wonderful. It's a stern rebuke as well as a loving plea to return to Yahweh. I recommend this book to Jews, Messianic Jews, those of us who are of the two-house movement, as well as Christians who want nothing to do with the Torah. I assure you - this book has helped me in many ways. I received this book near the end of 2014 and here it is - a Sabbath during the beginning of the year 2015. I stand in awe of the knowledge I've gained from this wonderful book. I am sure you, the reader, will feel the same. I cannot wait to read his next book.
OR
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Loading your book clubs
There was a problem loading your book clubs. Please try again.
Not in a club? Learn more
Join or create book clubs
Choose books together
Track your books
Bring your club to Amazon Book Clubs, start a new book club and invite your friends to join, or find a club that’s right for you for free.
Add a debit or credit card to save time when you check out
Convenient and secure with 2 clicks. Add your card
