Why do some people use Yeshua instead of Jesus?

[tonychanyt]

"Yeshua" (ישוע) is the original Hebrew/Aramaic name of Jesus. It was a common name in first-century Judea. The etymology of the name "Jesus" is here. Messianic Jews prefer using "Yeshua" to connect more directly with the historical figure and his Jewish roots. Generally, some individuals may feel that using "Yeshua" brings them closer to the original teachings or spirit of Jesus.

Is it wrong to use "Yeshua"?

No.

Is it wrong to use "Jesus"?

No.

Is it wrong to use "耶穌"?

No, that's the Chinese translation.

Whether one uses "Yeshua" or "Jesus," the reference is to the same person. The choice of name often reflects personal, cultural, or even theological preferences, but not a fundamental difference in pointing to the person of the one and only Son of God.

 

[timf]

There can be a danger to caution against. Some people use the Hebrew pronunciation of Joshua (Yeshua) instead of the more conventional Jesus as part of an approach to Judaism that is like children playing "dress up". When Christians do this they risk following the pattern of the Galatians.

While the use of the word is not a problem, it could be an indicator of someone's desire to pursue Jewish customs and perhaps start following the law.

 

[Reluctant Theologian]

There can be a danger to caution against. Some people use the Hebrew pronunciation of Joshua (Yeshua) instead of the more conventional Jesus as part of an approach to Judaism that is like children playing "dress up". When Christians do this they risk following the pattern of the Galatians.

While the use of the word is not a problem, it could be an indicator of someone's desire to pursue Jewish customs and perhaps start following the law.

Personal proper names are unique and very personal. So I have a preference to actually use GODs personal name יהוה (YHWH) and Jesus' personal name (יֵשׁוּעַ (Yeshua)).

It helps to remind us of the theology behind those names (e.g. Yeshua is short for 'YHWH is salvation' - the name Yeshua contains and refers to the very name of GOD). That is very meaningful and powerful. The Law still defines what is sin or not (see Paul on that). Personally I strive to keep the 10 Words/Commandments, the family/morality laws found in Mosaic Law (Acts 15) and the 'royal' laws quoted and emphasised by Yeshua (Deuteronomy 6:5, Leviticus 19:18).

The New Covenant cannot be fully understood without understanding the previous covenants ... Yet of course a Gentile doesn't have to become a Jew.