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This bookinquires as towhether theological dialogue between Christians and Jews is possible, not only in itself but also as regards the emergence of communities of Messianic Judaism. In light of David Novak''s insights,Matthew Leveringproposes that Christian theological responses to supersessionism need to preserve both the Church''s development of doctrine and Rabbinic Judaism''s ability to define its own boundaries. Thebook undertakes constructive philosophical theology in dialogue with Novak. Exploring the interrelated doctrines of divine providence/theonomy, the image of God, and natural law,Levering places Novak''s work in conversation especially with Thomas Aquinas, whose approach fosters a rich dialogue with Novak''s broadly Maimonidean perspective.It focusesupon the relationship of human beings to the Creator, with attention to the philosophical entailments of Jewish and Christian covenantal commitments, aimingto spell out what true freedom involves. Itconcludes byasking whether Christians and Jews would do better to bracket our covenantal commitments in pursuing such wisdom. Drawing upon Novak''s work,the author argues that in the face of suffering and death, God''s covenantal election makes possible hope, lacking which the quest for wisdom runs aground.
