We continued: What harm could result if the Jews were in a similar
attitude toward Christianity, declaring that Christ was the Word of God,
that the Gospel is the Book of God? Such an attitude as this would cause
the enmity of many centuries to pass away. If we declare that Moses was
the Prophet of God and that His Book was the law of God, does it harm our
religious standpoint? Not at all. Furthermore, every nation is proud of
its great men and heroes even though those great ones may have been
atheists or agnostics. Today France glorifies Napoleon Bonaparte, saying,
"He was a French military genius," whereas, in reality, he was a tyrant.
They say, "Voltaire was ours," although Voltaire was an atheist. "Rousseau
was a great man of this nation," and yet Rousseau was irreligious. France
is proud of these great men. Feasts are held commemorating them, their
names are perpetuated in special days, their memories treasured in
prominent places, and there is music and celebration in their honor. The
nation is proud of them. And now, do you consider these great men of
France greater than Jesus of Nazareth? It is evident that in comparison
with Jesus Christ they are as nothing. Consider the grandeur and majesty
of Jesus in contrast with such men as we have mentioned. Consider Him from
the standpoint of fame and renown. Where is the station of Christ, and
where is their station? What comparison is there? In reality, Christ is
incomparable. What harm, then, could come from your declaration that Jesus
of Nazareth was a great man of Israelitish birth and, therefore, we love
Him? That we have given to the world a great man indeed? That this mighty
Personage, Whose Word has spread throughout the world, Who has conquered
the East and the West, was an Israelite? Should you not be proud of Him?
When you glorify and honor the memory of Christ, rest assured that the
Christians will take your hands in real fellowship. All difficulty,
hesitancy and restraint will vanish. Consider the troubles and
persecutions heaped upon you in Russia for your fanaticism of unbelief.
And you must not think that this is ended.
This humiliation will continue forever. The time may come when in Europe
itself they will arise against the Jews. But your declaration that Christ
was the Word of God will end all such trouble. My advice is that in order
to become honorable, protected and secure among the nations of the world,
in order that the Christians may love and safeguard the Israelitish
people, you should be willing to announce your belief in Christ, the Word
of God. This is a complete statement; there is nothing more. Is it not
thoughtless, ignorant prejudice which restrains you from doing so? Declare
that, verily, the Word of God was realized in Him, and all will be right.
The rabbi thoughtfully said, "I believe that what you have said is
perfectly true, but I must ask one thing of you. Will you not tell the
Christians to love us a little more?"