The Catholic Culture Podcast The Church and the Jews: Recovering Tradition, w/ Gideon Lazar
Sep 4, 2025
Gideon Lazar, a theologian and Jewish convert to Catholicism, shares deep insights into the often misunderstood relationship between the Church and the Jewish community. He discusses the theological shifts post-Vatican II, challenging misconceptions about Jewish identity and salvation. Topics include the nuances of supersessionism, the importance of faith and works, and the historical dynamics of covenants. Lazar advocates for a renewed dialogue that honors tradition while addressing modern complexities, emphasizing shared values and the necessity of respectful discourse.
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Misreadings After Vatican II
- Vatican II did not create a rupture in doctrine; the problem is how Catholics have understood and applied post-conciliar teachings.
- Many otherwise orthodox Catholics now hold views on Jews that contradict long-standing Catholic tradition.
Read Vatican II In Continuity
- Read Vatican II with a hermeneutic of continuity and seek themes repeated across Fathers, medieval theology, and modern magisterium.
- Use consistent tradition to form a balanced theological approach to the Jews rather than reacting to political pressures.
Twofold Purpose Of The Mosaic Law
- The Jewish covenant served two purposes: to form a distinct people by law and to foreshadow Christ and the Church spiritually.
- Catholic tradition affirms much of Jewish self‑understanding up to Christ while differing on recognition of Jesus as Messiah.
