Dr. Marvin R. Wilson has long been one of the best examples of Christian educators and clergymen who promote constructive dialogue between Jewish and Christian communities. His career as Harold John Ockenga Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies at Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusetts, and an ordained minister has been distinguished by on-going efforts to promote greater understanding between Christians and Jews.
One of his most significant contributions to the building of bridges of communication has been his efforts toward teaching Christians the truth about Christianity’s Judaic heritage. His book, Our Father Abraham-Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, ahs become one of the best tools for reeducation Christians about the history of the earliest church.
Dr. Wilson has also been an indefatigable spokesman for the Jewish roots message in various forums around the world. He has made significant contributions as plenary speaker at some of the most important international conferences on Jewish-Christian relations. At the same time, he has also shared his well-thought-out and well-documented concepts with churches and synagogues of all sizes, meeting with the people and sharing their concerns.
As a result of Dr. Wilson’s ongoing efforts as a Christian scholar to engage leaders of the Jewish spiritual and academic communities in proactive dialogue, the Boston area has become a model for such positive exchanges that enhance the understanding and interpersonal relationships of both Jewish and Christian communities.
Gordon College now offers a program for a concentration in Jewish Studies which includes courses in Hebrew, Pentateuch, Modern Jewish culture, Early Jewish Biblical Interpretation, Post-Biblical History of the Jewish People, Writings of Abraham Joshua Heschel, and others. For information, write Gordon College, 255 Grapevine Road, Wenham, MA 01984, or phone (508)927-2300, x 4354.
At the time of this publication, Dr. Wilson is involved in preparation for a significant project in the greater Boston area which is bringing together clergymen of both Jewish and Christian congregations to share in dialogue that is being sparked by his thought-provoking lectures. This seminar is entitled, "Subtle Differences/Major Misconceptions: A Seminar for Jews and Christians on the North Shore."
Both the concept and the method of producing it are excellent examples of what Christians can do in promoting dialogue with Jewish communities throughout the world.
A gratifying amount of interest has been generated for this seminar, and registrations exceed expectations of the organizers. This is evidence of a growing groundswell of interest in improved relations between Christians and Jews.
Restoration Foundation commends Dr. Wilson and others of similar vision for their continuing efforts to foster better understanding between Jews and Christians by being actively involved in dialogue and by educating both communities concerning the faith traditions of the other.
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