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The Forgotten Jesus: How Western Christians Should Follow an Eastern Rabbi
Through the years, our understanding of Jesus has been shaped by different cultural influences, and many Christians have forgotten that Jesus was a Jewish man living in a Jewish land, observing Jewish customs, and investing his life into Jewish men and women.
Trading the popular, but inaccurate Western perspective of the Bible for the context in which Jesus actually ministered in 2000 years ago, author Robby Gallaty reveals the fascinating Hebraic culture, customs, and nuances many Christians have never experienced or learned about.
By uncovering the teaching of the first and second century rabbis and Christian theologians, and highlighting little-known Jewish idioms and traditions, Gallaty takes Christians on a biblical journey to rediscover a forgotten Jesus from a biblical perspective, deepening your relationship with God.
Trading the popular, but inaccurate Western perspective of the Bible for the context in which Jesus actually ministered in 2000 years ago, author Robby Gallaty reveals the fascinating Hebraic culture, customs, and nuances many Christians have never experienced or learned about.
By uncovering the teaching of the first and second century rabbis and Christian theologians, and highlighting little-known Jewish idioms and traditions, Gallaty takes Christians on a biblical journey to rediscover a forgotten Jesus from a biblical perspective, deepening your relationship with God.
224 pages, Paperback
Published April 4, 2017
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April 17, 2021
The Forgotten Jesus helped me exchange my Western viewpoint of scripture for that of a Torah-faithful Jew. Gallaty doesn’t reinterpret the Bible, rather he explains the significance and symbolism of Jesus’ words, actions, and the Rabbinical methods of instruction he employed. By doing so, he made connections and provided insights which I wouldn't have made on my own.
It took me a few days to tackle roughly 200 pages of text (not counting the reading plan or extensive endnotes) because I read with my Bible open and a notepad ready. At the end, I am left with 24 post-flags and two pages of shorthand notes I’d like to discuss with my book group. Not since reading Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus (co-authored by Ann Spangler and Lois Tverberg) have I been so completely enthralled by the community and culture of first-century Judaism. I cannot wait to encounter these portions of scripture in my reading plan with fresh eyes. Highly recommend!
I received a copy of this book for free, a favorable review was not required of me. All opinions expressed are my own.
It took me a few days to tackle roughly 200 pages of text (not counting the reading plan or extensive endnotes) because I read with my Bible open and a notepad ready. At the end, I am left with 24 post-flags and two pages of shorthand notes I’d like to discuss with my book group. Not since reading Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus (co-authored by Ann Spangler and Lois Tverberg) have I been so completely enthralled by the community and culture of first-century Judaism. I cannot wait to encounter these portions of scripture in my reading plan with fresh eyes. Highly recommend!
I received a copy of this book for free, a favorable review was not required of me. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 16, 2020
I put this book in a very similar category to the books from Lois Tverberg. It's a great book on context and the Jewish lens through which we can view scripture.
Like Tverberg, Gallaty does a great job of taking very dense material and packaging it in a concise way that is very accessible to the average reader. It is actually amazing to step back and consider all of the content that Robby has packed into this book.
This book won't be your deep dive into any one area or idea, but this book will serve to expose you to a lot of ideas in an effective way. Committed students of mine will note that Robby and I dont see every nuance in the same way, but increased exposure is always a good thing and he is having the right conversation about the right things with the right pieces — and I'm always looking for more books like that to recommend.
Like Tverberg, Gallaty does a great job of taking very dense material and packaging it in a concise way that is very accessible to the average reader. It is actually amazing to step back and consider all of the content that Robby has packed into this book.
This book won't be your deep dive into any one area or idea, but this book will serve to expose you to a lot of ideas in an effective way. Committed students of mine will note that Robby and I dont see every nuance in the same way, but increased exposure is always a good thing and he is having the right conversation about the right things with the right pieces — and I'm always looking for more books like that to recommend.
February 3, 2025
Warning: this book will change how you read the Bible, but in a good way :) some of it felt like common sense but I still learned a lot!
April 9, 2023
This is a book that all Western Christians should read. I listened to the audible version and plan to buy a physical copy of the book so I can go back through it with my Bible and notebook to study more of the things talked about. There is also a podcast on this information available on Spotify that I've started listening to. I highly recommend this book. Due to our cultural differences, there is so much we can miss when reading about Jesus. This book is very eye-opening to things the usual Western mind would never even consider.
June 16, 2021
Great in depth explanations of often over looked details surrounding Jesus and the Bible. The author breaks down Western Biblical interpretations and factual documentation surrounding Jesus and various events in th Bible. Excellent read!
January 26, 2026
This type of book is tougher to review. I really do think this would be a book that I would enjoy for my family or my students to read. I also think that there is nothing that he put in this book in terms of biblical references that I disagreed with. It was well studied, and overall a fairly easy listen.
I also give kudos to the author for having such a successful ministry in a region of Tennessee that desperately needs good churches.
My problem with the book was the very premise of it itself. The idea was that this book was going to reveal insights that ministers had clearly forgotten about Jesus because of our western mindset. Instead, it was filled with facts that you can readily find in most commentaries, and that most ministers that I know would obviously include in their sermons.
It was as if the author was trying to imply that he was digging into these hidden sources of information, revealing things that are hidden to the masses. In truth, there is an army of pastors already doing this.
I give kudos to the fact that he brought this information in a well researched book that would help the reader get keen insights in the gospels. My problem is just with the packaging. There is no forgotten Jesus, and that implication shouldn’t be made in order to sell books.
I also give kudos to the author for having such a successful ministry in a region of Tennessee that desperately needs good churches.
My problem with the book was the very premise of it itself. The idea was that this book was going to reveal insights that ministers had clearly forgotten about Jesus because of our western mindset. Instead, it was filled with facts that you can readily find in most commentaries, and that most ministers that I know would obviously include in their sermons.
It was as if the author was trying to imply that he was digging into these hidden sources of information, revealing things that are hidden to the masses. In truth, there is an army of pastors already doing this.
I give kudos to the fact that he brought this information in a well researched book that would help the reader get keen insights in the gospels. My problem is just with the packaging. There is no forgotten Jesus, and that implication shouldn’t be made in order to sell books.
January 6, 2026
Reading The Forgotten Jesus felt like putting on a pair of glasses and finally seeing the Bible in high definition. Gallaty’s insights into the Jewishness of Jesus provided me with a fresh perspective that has profoundly impacted my personal study and prayer life. The way he connects ancient customs to modern-day discipleship is both convicting and encouraging. This book doesn't just provide head knowledge; it invites you into a more authentic relationship with the Savior. It’s a powerful reminder that to truly follow Jesus, we must first understand the world He lived in.
February 7, 2022
If you want to learn more about how things were in Judah at the time of Jesus, this is a terrific book for that. Learning more about what things meant to those who Jesus taught will help you gleam so much more as you read your Bible. Very well written and researched.
October 6, 2018
Loved learning more about the cultural background to stories from the Bible I’ve heard countless times before.
August 25, 2022
Highly recommend this excellent study. Detailed in research and footnoting, it’s a treasure for the student of the Bible. A thorough look at Jesus and how He presented Himself. Very, very well done.
July 31, 2023
A very Rich book . One of those books you can’t put down. Loved the Jewish cultural and historical insights that are never obvious when reading the scriptures.
June 26, 2017
I unexpectedly read this book after it was recommended to me by my mother-in-law. I enjoy thinking about the contemporary cultural contexts in the Bible, so I thought I'd like this book. I believe we do tend to forget that Jesus had to be entirely Jewish in order to completely fulfill the Law in our place. It definitely deepens our understanding of God's Word when we understand it through the connections to the Hebraic culture.
Although I did not agree with everything and some scriptural references didn't seem to connect with some of the author's points, I ended up learning some neat new tidbits of information.
Gallaty began by introducing us to the Hebrew Bible - the Tanakh - and who renamed it to the "books of the Old Testament". He continues by illustrating the different way that the Jewish and Christians think of God. He then begins making connections by comparing Jesus to Abraham, Joseph, and Moses. This brought some new insightful comparisons I wasn't taught yet. My reading of Moses receiving the Law happened to coincide with Pentecost.
Perhaps my favourite chapter was about John "the Baptist". Gallaty explains how it's possible that John was an Essene and he also clears up the common understanding of John apparently doubting Jesus while he was in prison. I also enjoyed reading about the magi and the reason they would have known about the star through their connection to Daniel, who was ruler over the wise men of Babylon.
Another interesting correction - the one my mother-in-law particularly liked - is about our idea of Jesus being a carpenter and why he was likely in another trade. He also sheds light on the scene of Jesus reading from the scroll in the synagogue, where I realized the reaction wasn't like I was shown in a certain Passion play.
One of the verses Robby tackles with a deeper meaning is of Jesus preparing a place for us. He also interestingly unpacks why Jesus meant to pass by the disciples as He walked on the water. Another image he addresses is the one we have of the bleeding woman crawling to touch Jesus' hem and explains the missed significance behind the account.
Another fascinating chapter was about Jesus fulfilling the three messianic miracles and why only the Messiah could've done them. This chapter includes a great explanation of the troubling "unforgivable sin" and a map of Jerusalem during the time of Jesus.
Robby then leads up to Jesus' triumphal entry and cleansing the temple between cursing the fig tree. We learn how this had to happen exactly as it did for Jesus to be our lamb sacrifice and we learn how the temple became so corrupt. One of my other favourite parts of this book is when Robby corrects the depiction of the last supper by da Vinci and shows what it would've looked like. There's also some interesting things said about Judas and discipleship today.
The book ends with another fascinating look. This time, at Peter's denial and why the "crowing rooster" likely wasn't even a rooster. Lastly, he paints a picture of us with Barabbas and unpacks Jesus' cry of the Father forsaking Him.
Robby also includes a reading plan in the back for busy believers. Overall, I would recommend this book if you want to have a deeper understanding of our Rabbi in all His Jewishness.
Although I did not agree with everything and some scriptural references didn't seem to connect with some of the author's points, I ended up learning some neat new tidbits of information.
Gallaty began by introducing us to the Hebrew Bible - the Tanakh - and who renamed it to the "books of the Old Testament". He continues by illustrating the different way that the Jewish and Christians think of God. He then begins making connections by comparing Jesus to Abraham, Joseph, and Moses. This brought some new insightful comparisons I wasn't taught yet. My reading of Moses receiving the Law happened to coincide with Pentecost.
Perhaps my favourite chapter was about John "the Baptist". Gallaty explains how it's possible that John was an Essene and he also clears up the common understanding of John apparently doubting Jesus while he was in prison. I also enjoyed reading about the magi and the reason they would have known about the star through their connection to Daniel, who was ruler over the wise men of Babylon.
Another interesting correction - the one my mother-in-law particularly liked - is about our idea of Jesus being a carpenter and why he was likely in another trade. He also sheds light on the scene of Jesus reading from the scroll in the synagogue, where I realized the reaction wasn't like I was shown in a certain Passion play.
One of the verses Robby tackles with a deeper meaning is of Jesus preparing a place for us. He also interestingly unpacks why Jesus meant to pass by the disciples as He walked on the water. Another image he addresses is the one we have of the bleeding woman crawling to touch Jesus' hem and explains the missed significance behind the account.
Another fascinating chapter was about Jesus fulfilling the three messianic miracles and why only the Messiah could've done them. This chapter includes a great explanation of the troubling "unforgivable sin" and a map of Jerusalem during the time of Jesus.
Robby then leads up to Jesus' triumphal entry and cleansing the temple between cursing the fig tree. We learn how this had to happen exactly as it did for Jesus to be our lamb sacrifice and we learn how the temple became so corrupt. One of my other favourite parts of this book is when Robby corrects the depiction of the last supper by da Vinci and shows what it would've looked like. There's also some interesting things said about Judas and discipleship today.
The book ends with another fascinating look. This time, at Peter's denial and why the "crowing rooster" likely wasn't even a rooster. Lastly, he paints a picture of us with Barabbas and unpacks Jesus' cry of the Father forsaking Him.
Robby also includes a reading plan in the back for busy believers. Overall, I would recommend this book if you want to have a deeper understanding of our Rabbi in all His Jewishness.
August 19, 2024
3.5 stars rounded down.
This book felt like a haphazard arrangement of other people's exegetical work.
The good: Gallaty insists that the Old Testament is still very important for understanding the NT (contra some like Andy Stanley who have been on a Marcionite kick to try to separate Christians from the OT). He also recognizes that cultural-historical context can be helpful for interpreting Scripture.
The bad: Gallaty makes some very broad generalizations that are not very helpful and that actually muddy the waters more. For example, he talks about the importance of cultural-historical data but fails to really give any guidance about when and how to recognize the significance of historical data. This leaves the door wide open for the undiscerning reader of Scripture to foreground Jewish practices as the primary interperative lens, rather than letting Scripture interpret Scripture. Gallaty also tries to create a neat division between so-called "Western Thinking" and "Middle Eastern Thinking" that feels overstated.
This book felt like a haphazard arrangement of other people's exegetical work.
The good: Gallaty insists that the Old Testament is still very important for understanding the NT (contra some like Andy Stanley who have been on a Marcionite kick to try to separate Christians from the OT). He also recognizes that cultural-historical context can be helpful for interpreting Scripture.
The bad: Gallaty makes some very broad generalizations that are not very helpful and that actually muddy the waters more. For example, he talks about the importance of cultural-historical data but fails to really give any guidance about when and how to recognize the significance of historical data. This leaves the door wide open for the undiscerning reader of Scripture to foreground Jewish practices as the primary interperative lens, rather than letting Scripture interpret Scripture. Gallaty also tries to create a neat division between so-called "Western Thinking" and "Middle Eastern Thinking" that feels overstated.
January 4, 2021
Because I think this book has more pros than cons I’ll begin with the cons and then the pros. I’m feeling lazy so I’ll just do bullet points.
Cons:
1. The author has classical theological presuppositions (timelessness, predestination, inerrancy) that detract from his interpretation of the data.
2. After the first 5 chapters two things happen. First The book starts sounding very evangelical and second, the author starts to “prove Jesus.” He does not do a bad job at this, it’s just not what I expected or wanted (so this con is very subjective).
3. There are times when he does word studies in a very sloppy way. He makes cross references to other places where words appear, which works in many cases, except for when it does not. The theological meaning is not always simply behind the word but behind the syntax.
4. The author is not a Hebrew scholar, so he gets a pass on this one. But it is clear that he is not. When speaking about Jesus title as “son of man” he makes a reference to the name “Adam” to which he infers comes from the word for “man”. This is just flat out incorrect. The Hebrew word for man is “ish”. “Adam” more accurately is “dirt person” or “humanity”. The gender of Adam is not mentioned in his creation. It is not until that “isha” (Woman) it’s pulled from his ribs that they are called man and woman.
Pros:
1. He does a fantastic job at exploring the ancient world. In fact, I learned a lot from him. His insights were very complementary to many of the ancient near east resources I have already read and have in my collection.
2. For just a footnote, this book is worth all the money.
3. As a white man, he does a great job at exploring the Jewishness and Brown of Jesus and exposing western misconceptions of a “white” or “American” Jesus.
4. He speaks as a scholar but also as a pastor. He speaks to the heart into the mind.
Cons:
1. The author has classical theological presuppositions (timelessness, predestination, inerrancy) that detract from his interpretation of the data.
2. After the first 5 chapters two things happen. First The book starts sounding very evangelical and second, the author starts to “prove Jesus.” He does not do a bad job at this, it’s just not what I expected or wanted (so this con is very subjective).
3. There are times when he does word studies in a very sloppy way. He makes cross references to other places where words appear, which works in many cases, except for when it does not. The theological meaning is not always simply behind the word but behind the syntax.
4. The author is not a Hebrew scholar, so he gets a pass on this one. But it is clear that he is not. When speaking about Jesus title as “son of man” he makes a reference to the name “Adam” to which he infers comes from the word for “man”. This is just flat out incorrect. The Hebrew word for man is “ish”. “Adam” more accurately is “dirt person” or “humanity”. The gender of Adam is not mentioned in his creation. It is not until that “isha” (Woman) it’s pulled from his ribs that they are called man and woman.
Pros:
1. He does a fantastic job at exploring the ancient world. In fact, I learned a lot from him. His insights were very complementary to many of the ancient near east resources I have already read and have in my collection.
2. For just a footnote, this book is worth all the money.
3. As a white man, he does a great job at exploring the Jewishness and Brown of Jesus and exposing western misconceptions of a “white” or “American” Jesus.
4. He speaks as a scholar but also as a pastor. He speaks to the heart into the mind.
November 10, 2021
I found this book to be a bit of an enigma for me. This is one of two similar books I read recently on putting Christ and his teachings in proper historical context (the other was "Short Stories by Jesus" by Amy Levine). Both of these start with a very solid basis. Jesus was/is not a 21st century Westerner. Trying to understand his teachings from this point of view is sure to miss the point.
At the same time, although he never actually states this, it is clear that Robby Gallaty builds his narrative on the foundation that the Bible is the inspired word of God and as such must tell a single intricately woven story. I am much more inclined to see the Bible as the story of humanity's struggle (as written down by humans) to understand who God is and our relationship with him and thus is a collection of stories of varying degree of theological accuracy. This disconnect made much of the reading difficult for me.
There is also a significant difference on the portrayal of the culture and mindset for 1st century Jews living in Palestine between Robby Gallaty and Amy Levine. Not being an anthropologist myself, I am not sure who paints the more accurate picture.
BUT... there were moments of brilliance in this book that opened a new way of viewing some of the key aspects of the stories we know of Jesus's life and ministry.
In the end, this was one of those very rare books dealing with Christianity that I found intellectually stimulating and challenging. I didn't agree with everything presented but, at the same time, it didn't simply validate my current understanding either.
At the same time, although he never actually states this, it is clear that Robby Gallaty builds his narrative on the foundation that the Bible is the inspired word of God and as such must tell a single intricately woven story. I am much more inclined to see the Bible as the story of humanity's struggle (as written down by humans) to understand who God is and our relationship with him and thus is a collection of stories of varying degree of theological accuracy. This disconnect made much of the reading difficult for me.
There is also a significant difference on the portrayal of the culture and mindset for 1st century Jews living in Palestine between Robby Gallaty and Amy Levine. Not being an anthropologist myself, I am not sure who paints the more accurate picture.
BUT... there were moments of brilliance in this book that opened a new way of viewing some of the key aspects of the stories we know of Jesus's life and ministry.
In the end, this was one of those very rare books dealing with Christianity that I found intellectually stimulating and challenging. I didn't agree with everything presented but, at the same time, it didn't simply validate my current understanding either.
November 27, 2022
EYE OPENING:
I listened to the audiobook version of this title, admirably narrated by Adam Verner.
I’ve listened to this 3 times now (twice back-to-back).
I am not learned enough to totally accept or completely decry the content of this book. However, I am sufficiently curious enough to study/research further.
The majority of this text is compelling and truly opens my Western eyes & mind to more fully relate to Jesus the Jewish Rabbi who is the Messiah, who came to Israel and lived there, relating and interacting with the community there - His people - not a Western/English Minister/Pastor/Priest! I think that a great many Christians (irrespective of denominations), would be wise to read (listen) to this!
It’s about time that we stopped thinking that WE created Christianity. It’s about time that we mindfully acknowledged that Jesus Christ was a Jew. Not blond, blue-eyed, sexy and probably often, not clean - no daily hot showers…
Additionally, there’s a recommended daily Bible reading plan programme - which I have already purchased and will start soon.
If nothing else, this book encourages you to study the Bible more! I thoroughly enjoyed it! I’m grateful for the push.
(I have also been introduced to a new Bible translation - CSB).
I listened to the audiobook version of this title, admirably narrated by Adam Verner.
I’ve listened to this 3 times now (twice back-to-back).
I am not learned enough to totally accept or completely decry the content of this book. However, I am sufficiently curious enough to study/research further.
The majority of this text is compelling and truly opens my Western eyes & mind to more fully relate to Jesus the Jewish Rabbi who is the Messiah, who came to Israel and lived there, relating and interacting with the community there - His people - not a Western/English Minister/Pastor/Priest! I think that a great many Christians (irrespective of denominations), would be wise to read (listen) to this!
It’s about time that we stopped thinking that WE created Christianity. It’s about time that we mindfully acknowledged that Jesus Christ was a Jew. Not blond, blue-eyed, sexy and probably often, not clean - no daily hot showers…
Additionally, there’s a recommended daily Bible reading plan programme - which I have already purchased and will start soon.
If nothing else, this book encourages you to study the Bible more! I thoroughly enjoyed it! I’m grateful for the push.
(I have also been introduced to a new Bible translation - CSB).
September 29, 2023
Listened on Audible (Included).
At first I was not impressed with the information in this book. I graduated from a Bible college and much of the material in the first several chapters was covered in the education I received at college. Somewhere near the mid-point of the book, I began to get interested because I was learning new-to-me information. The last chapter reverted back to the previous standard fare for me.
That said, the book is well thought out and the information presented will add depth that just about anyone studying the Bible would like to know. It would be a good book to use for group Bible study. I don’t know if there’s a study guide available, but if not, the book lends itself well to group discussion provided the group leader has a firm grasp on the subject and is good at keeping the discussion on topic.
At first I was not impressed with the information in this book. I graduated from a Bible college and much of the material in the first several chapters was covered in the education I received at college. Somewhere near the mid-point of the book, I began to get interested because I was learning new-to-me information. The last chapter reverted back to the previous standard fare for me.
That said, the book is well thought out and the information presented will add depth that just about anyone studying the Bible would like to know. It would be a good book to use for group Bible study. I don’t know if there’s a study guide available, but if not, the book lends itself well to group discussion provided the group leader has a firm grasp on the subject and is good at keeping the discussion on topic.
March 22, 2017
The Forgotten Jesus. The title of this book opens your eyes from the beginning. You begin to ask yourself what have we forgotten about Jesus? Any person that has studied the Bible in any serious manner will tell you the old adage that "context is king". However, it seems that when it comes to the New Testament, with the possible exception of the book of Hebrews, many ignore the Jewish worldview that dominated the world of Christ and His early followers. Robby Gallaty has written a book here that brings this sometimes willful ignorance into view.
If I am honest I will say that there was not a whole lot of brand new information that came to light as I read this book, but the gathering together of these places in Scripture that can be enriched by the proper Jewish context really opened my eyes. Perhaps the greatest contribution Gallaty has made here is to spur people on in doing more than just surface level contextual work when preaching and teaching. This book reminds us that the finer points of Hebrew culture and the Jewish religion as practiced in the days of Jesus do not harm the truths of the New Testament as we understand them, but they bring them into clearer focus.
If I am honest I will say that there was not a whole lot of brand new information that came to light as I read this book, but the gathering together of these places in Scripture that can be enriched by the proper Jewish context really opened my eyes. Perhaps the greatest contribution Gallaty has made here is to spur people on in doing more than just surface level contextual work when preaching and teaching. This book reminds us that the finer points of Hebrew culture and the Jewish religion as practiced in the days of Jesus do not harm the truths of the New Testament as we understand them, but they bring them into clearer focus.
June 18, 2022
This is a great book that trades the popular, but often inaccurate Western perspective of the Bible for the context in which Jesus actually ministered in 2000 years ago, and reveals the fascinating Hebraic culture, customs, and nuances many Christians have never experienced or learned about. The Author works from the premise that we can't truly appreciate the New Testament unless we understand the Old Testament.
This book uncovers the teaching of the first and second century rabbis and Christian theologians, and highlighting little-known Jewish idioms and traditions. It takes Christians on a biblical journey to rediscover a forgotten Jesus from a biblical perspective, deepening your relationship with God.
This book uncovers the teaching of the first and second century rabbis and Christian theologians, and highlighting little-known Jewish idioms and traditions. It takes Christians on a biblical journey to rediscover a forgotten Jesus from a biblical perspective, deepening your relationship with God.
May 16, 2018
Robby Gallaty offers some compelling insights into the "Jewishness" of Jesus and the way Christ's cultural background shaped his lifestyle, teaching methods, and even the way he processed the world in which he walked. Gallaty himself admits in closing that not many of these insights are entirely original to this book but that they are the product of his own extensive research. As a result, for a well-read student, some chapters will feel far more substantial than others. Having said that, the book is absolutely worth reading and provides a good first taste of a topic into which every follower of Jesus should invest some depth of time and contemplation.
May 28, 2018
A throwback to my Old Testament History classes in college! Super insightful for those unfamiliar with Jewish traditions, culture, and context of Biblical days. Although I had a tough time getting into this book, because the writing seemed pretty sloppy, especially at the beginning; the further I went though, the better it became.
My words of encouragement (or caution) would simply be to continue reading other resources (which Gallaty recommends as well). Gallaty suggests a few speculative theories and explanations for situations described in the Bible. Allow that to feed further curiosity and exploration of God's Word.
My words of encouragement (or caution) would simply be to continue reading other resources (which Gallaty recommends as well). Gallaty suggests a few speculative theories and explanations for situations described in the Bible. Allow that to feed further curiosity and exploration of God's Word.
September 12, 2021
This work is very much a wonderful echo of many other works on the subject. What's nice about this title is the sheer amount of fun, historical nuggets and how th author presents them. For example, he uses Da Vinci's painting of the Last Supper to discuss common 1st Century jewish dining traditions. If you have been through the first 5 sessions of the Bema Discipleship Podcast, this will be right up your alley bit it might also just feel like an abridged version of Session 3 without deep roots. If I hadn't been through Bema, this book would have rocked my world. For me now, it's a comforting reinforcement of many things I have learned through Bema.
December 24, 2018
This book is really well done. It provides plenty of insight inti the Gospels while removing the bias of a Western Mindset. It is not exhaustive, but it is certainly a good start for anyone wanting to discover the historical realities that surrounded the ministry of Jesus.
I did find myself searching for a bit more structure to the writing. At times the chapters and content felt a bit random.
Overall, it is thoroughly researched, devoutly Biblical, and very readable. Perfect for the lay-person who doesn’t want to work through the technicalities of scholarly writing.
I did find myself searching for a bit more structure to the writing. At times the chapters and content felt a bit random.
Overall, it is thoroughly researched, devoutly Biblical, and very readable. Perfect for the lay-person who doesn’t want to work through the technicalities of scholarly writing.
October 15, 2020
Wow, what an eye-opening book. I gained a number of new insights into the life of Jesus by reading this book about Jewish culture at the time of Jesus. While, as the author says, we need to be careful about assuming all historical research is applicable and truthful in interpretation, there is much in this book that makes sense. I also loved all predictions of Messiah from Old Testament that are proved out in Jesus. This is a fascinating book and makes me consider how much I have yet to learn about Jesus, the Messiah.
November 13, 2020
Maybe better titled: "The significance of Jesus in the O.T."
I was surprised to see Robby Gallaty had time for another significant interest on top of discipleship. He has a passion for Jewish studies and the Old Testament. I have to say I learned a few breathtaking parallels of Jesus in the scriptures I had not known before. The O.T. is 3/4 of the Bible ... and we aren't reading it! The Old Testament was Jesus' Bible, and it was the "Only Testament". I'd recommend it to others but I would say that Rand Richard's book, "Western Eyes" had a more impactful statement on this topic.
I was surprised to see Robby Gallaty had time for another significant interest on top of discipleship. He has a passion for Jewish studies and the Old Testament. I have to say I learned a few breathtaking parallels of Jesus in the scriptures I had not known before. The O.T. is 3/4 of the Bible ... and we aren't reading it! The Old Testament was Jesus' Bible, and it was the "Only Testament". I'd recommend it to others but I would say that Rand Richard's book, "Western Eyes" had a more impactful statement on this topic.
February 23, 2023
Good book by Gallaty. I am a huge fan of Gallaty and his writing. He shows how we commonly misinterpret the Eastern text through western eyes which may cause us to look at the various texts on the life of Christ in a skewed light, thus limiting our understanding of the original point or even the person of Christ Himself. This is a good book overall. I do give it 4 stars only for reasons of it showing what I think to be many opinions expressed on the authors part. But hey! What author is without bias? Good read overall. (On audible also)
April 1, 2026
First of all the title is click bait. The Bible contrast Jew and Gentile not Eastern and Western thinking. The problem is not that we fail to understand culture. It’s that we fail to understand the Word of God in its context. We fail to understand the Law. It’s because we need to be illumined and read it, not because I’m a white westerner. He’s baiting with this title and it’s not appropriate nor accurate.
Proofs are weak for his argument and he even said Jesus’s goal in the triumphal entry wasn’t to show he was the king of the jews?? Stop. That’s wrong.
Proofs are weak for his argument and he even said Jesus’s goal in the triumphal entry wasn’t to show he was the king of the jews?? Stop. That’s wrong.
January 29, 2018
This book is a really great starting place for anyone wanting to study Jewish and Middle Eastern culture and its impact and interpretation on the Bible. Gallaty has written a book that is easy to understand and very interesting. He also provides information on sources for more indepth study if someone is interested. While it doesn't change the Gospel or its message, the material in this book will give you a greater appreciation for Christ and his work done during his time on Earth.
December 2, 2021
Three stars not because I don’t think the author has an important point. I just felt that it lacked the nuanced and tension filled discussions that come out of the implications of our wrong views of Jesus as a Jewish Rabi vs a white guy on a cross. Complex discussion and one that needs all the history, biblical scholars, and philosophic pros you can have. Just felt a little apologetic and less like an attempt to be honest about the mystery sometimes.
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