Messianic congregations are faith communities that stress the Jewish context of the Gospel of Jesus the Messiah. Messianic congregations often employ Jewish forms of worship, use Hebrew in their liturgy and stress the connection of Messiah to the Hebrew Scriptures. By enlisting as many of the features of the synagogue as are consistent with the Messiah’s teaching, Messianic congregations provide a familiar environment for Jewish believers and seekers, many of whom are intimidated, confused or simply uncomfortable among the traditions of Christian churches.

Messianic Jewish families often turn to Messianic congregations because they help children understand what it means to be a Jewish believer in the Messiah, and help children feel linked to a faith community larger than their immediate family. It would be easy for Jewish children to become disconnected from their Jewish heritage in a Christian church. Similarly, many interfaith couples find that a Messianic congregation is the most comfortable home for both spouses, especially when it comes time to raise children.

Messianic congregations also emphasize the celebration of the Jewish festivals, which often become an event for members of the wider Jewish community who do not know Messiah. These outreaches allow Jewish believers to talk with their fellow Jews and answer their questions about how a person can believe in Messiah Jesus and still be Jewish. Connection with Jewish life through their Messianic congregations often eases such concerns.