Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are closely linked together in spite of the bridges that have kept us separated for centuries. Jews, Christians, and Muslims must find ways in which to alleviate the hostilities between each other that have stemmed from ancient divisions. Some sort of reconciliation is the only chance we have in restoring peace among all three faiths. There is one thing that we can be sure of; there will be peace one day but none of us know when that day will come.
"Judaism is the oldest of the three great monotheistic religions. Judaism's view of history as rendered in the Torah some 2,600 years ago, provided a basis for Christianity and later Islam. The Israeli leader Moses, who received the Lord's laws atop Mount Sinai is a revered prophet in all three faiths."(T. Cahill p.2).
Jews believe in one God who is Creator, Deliverer, and Lord of history. They also believe in Jesus as an important prophet, but not as a divine person. It is their belief that His death has no saving effect and that he is not the Messiah. The Hebrew Bible, which is basically the Christian Old Testament, is their source of authority. The basic human problem according to the Jews is sin, which can be forgiven for those that repent, trust in God, and obey Him. Orthodox Jews believe that you receive your reward or punishment after death in Heaven or Hell. Some liberal Jews do not believe in an afterlife at all.
"In Israel, 2,000 years ago, a child was born to a Jewish couple. Jesus grew to be a charismatic preacher, gathering disciples as he went. This Son of God performed miracles, they said: raising the dead, calming the waters of Galalee. Jerusalem's authorities, perceived a threat and had Jesus executed. His followers, taking up the cross, built the world's largest religion in His name." (T. Cahill p. 4).
Christians believe in one God who is Creator and Lord of everything. He exists as Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
