ezer 44.9); divorce procedures for them are somewhat modified. Such an individual was not considered as reliable witness except in the case of an aguna. Penalties may be imposed on his inheritance(Kid. 18a), although he does have the right to inherit(B.B. 108a, 111a). Normal mourning rites should not be observed for such a person(M. San. 6.6; Shulhan Arukh, Yoreh De-ah 345.5). It is clear, therefore, that an apostate stands outside the community in all but relatively few matters until he has repented. We cannot officiate at his marriage with a Jewish girl.
We should be much stricter in our relationship with“Messianic Jews” than with other Christians with whom we continually attempt to establish good interfaith relations. The normative Christian churches are known for their beliefs and practices and are easily distinguishable by our people. Although they may continue to seek some converts from Judaism , most churches have not pursued active missionary activities in modern times. Directly the opposite is true of “Messianic Jews.” They have established a vigorous missionary presence and often seek to confuse Jews about the nature of their religion. They have frequently presented themselves as Jews rather than Christians through misleading pamphlets, advertisements, and religious services. We should do everything in our power to correct these misconceptions and to maintain a strict separation from anyone connected with this group. We should, of course not officiate at such a marriage.