This intriguing book began as a conversation via email between two Messianic Jews. One, Jen Rosner, advocates for the newly emerging Messianic Jewish movement to consider valuing consistently Torah-observant lifestyles. Her brother-in-law, Josh Lessard, while not opposed to Torah observance, believes that individual Messianic Jews should prioritize the leading of the Spirit.
There are many reasons to recommend reading At the Foot of the Mountain. First and foremost is the irenic spirit with which the conversation is conducted. While being direct about their disagreements, Jen and Josh respect each other and seek to honor one another throughout the book. This provides a helpful corrective to the all-too-common hostility with which brothers and sisters in Christ argue in books, on social media, and in podcasts.
Another area of strength is the depth of thought that each gives to their discussions. Jen is coming from more of an academic perspective. Josh, a rabbi for a Messianic Jewish synagogue, takes a pastoral approach. Each of them is well read, have studied scriptures deeply, and present their arguments with clarity and even humor.
Finally, an area of interest for our community - which has many Catholics - is the applicability of this discussion to ongoing conversations in the Roman Catholic church. Some advocate that following the rules of the Catholic Church create a distinct people that displays the beauty of Christ on the earth. Others believe a more Spirit-led approach can lead Catholics to discern when and how to best adhere to the heart of Roman Catholicism. The conversation between Jen and Josh may shed light on this discussion, but from the helpfully oblique angle of Messianic Judaism.