118 - Moments of Crisis in Jewish-Christian Relations

Moments of Crisis in Jewish-Christian Relations

By Marc Saperstein

Trinity Press International, 1989. 84 Pp. $6.95.

This contribution to the dialogue between Jews and Christians by Marc Saperstein reads much more like an agenda for dialogue than a review of the dialogue. Indeed, the volumes of material that have flowed from dialogues on various levels and for various purposes could not be reviewed adequately, even from the perspective of moments of crisis, in one volume, not to mention one of just eighty-four pages. And the crises that form the historical background for the text are offered not so much as sufficient grounds for understanding the state of present dialogue as they are as material that remains as important agenda items for the ongoing conversation. Setting an agenda

 

120 - Moments of Crisis in Jewish-Christian Relations

for dialogue, especially one that is as fully developed as this one, is tricky, but Saperstein accomplishes this task well. His points are selective but do represent keys to any fruitful dialogue (both in having Christians take their history seriously and in addressing with candor current issues such as relations with the modern state of Israel). In fact, Saperstein's candor regarding the issue of Israel is a welcome new perspective on this sticky matter. The book is far too slim to be seen as a substantive contribution to dialogue, or even as a dominant text in a course, but can work well as a supplement to meatier materials or for adult classes in church and synagogue. The text is honest, accurate, and brief, all features worthy of acclaim.

James F. Moore, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, Ind.