This book evaluates John Calvin's teaching and contribution towards a modern theology on the Jews in light of the Holocaust and the Jewish-Christian dialogue. It examines the historical treatment of the Jews up to the Reformation and inquires into Calvin's teachings on those subjects specifically related to Judaism: the Hebrew Scriptures, the covenant, the law, and Romans 9-11. The author explores the reformer's three basic criticisms of Jews and evaluates Calvin's contribution towards a comprehensive teaching on Jews. Six proposals are made for a revised Christian understanding of Jewish-Christian relations.
"Dr. Robinson's work adds an important chapter to the fundamental re-examination of the Jewish-Christian relationship by contemporary Christianity. Certainly John Calvin's writings form an important part of the classical approach to the Jewish people in light of the Christ event. In formulating new understandings of the relationship in our time it is vital for Christians to have a thorough grasp ot traditional outlooks to appreciate better what needs to be changed and what remains solid teaching in the face of recent scholarship. This book provides us with that delicate balance." (John T. Pawlikowski, Catholic Theological Union)
"One of the most important movements of the twentieth century has been the interfaith dialogue between Christians and Jews. Robinson's careful research on John Calvin and Judaism provides a rich resource for understanding the historical roots of and present challenges to a deeper understanding of the common basis of belief in the one God who calls people to faith and shalom in our world." (John D. Mulder, President, Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary)
"Dr. Robinson has performed an important service to both the scholarly community and ecumenists. His book fills a too long neglected lacuna in Reformation studies and in the historiography of Christian Jewish relations. It merits serious consideration." (Ronald Modras, Saint Louis University)
"One of the most important movements of the twentieth century has been the interfaith dialogue between Christians and Jews. Robinson's careful research on John Calvin and Judaism provides a rich resource for understanding the historical roots of and present challenges to a deeper understanding of the common basis of belief in the one God who calls people to faith and shalom in our world." (John D. Mulder, President, Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary)
"Dr. Robinson has performed an important service to both the scholarly community and ecumenists. His book fills a too long neglected lacuna in Reformation studies and in the historiography of Christian Jewish relations. It merits serious consideration." (Ronald Modras, Saint Louis University)