Question:
Does the term “Jew” apply to all of the tribes of Israel or the tribe of Judah alone?
Answer:
The word refers to a citizen of the kingdom of Judah, embracing the tribes of Judah, Benjamin, and the Levites among them, though spiritually, it has a far more significant meaning. Scholars differ as to its derivation. Some contend that it came from “Jahwe” (another way of spelling the covenant name of God), “Jahwes” (“Jews” in our language), the people of Jahwe or Jehovah. Others hold that it came from the tribe of Judah. But in God’s mind, this comprehended all; for in Judah was the rulership, and through that tribe came Christ, the Creator, the Redeemer, the King of all Israel. (See Genesis 49:10). Therefore, Jesus declares, “Salvation is of the Jews.” (John 4:22). And therefore, Paul states, “For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.” (Romans 2:28-29). The genuine Jew is a true disciple of Christ.
