Is there evidence that early Jewish people embraced Jesus as Messiah?
Yes, evidence exists that early Jewish people embraced Jesus as Messiah. Thousands did so early on, and archaeology is proving that many Jews embraced Christ as their Messiah and Redeemer. Though the vast majority rejected Him, a significant early Jewish remnant believed.
Les explains that Peter’s hearers had to recognize that Jesus was the Christ, and only Jesus. He notes that it is amazing that present-day Jews, especially the Orthodox, refuse to admit that Jews ever followed Christ, but thousands did early on. Archaeology is proving that many Jews had embraced Christ as their Messiah and Redeemer. Granted, the vast majority rejected it, and, as Les has said before, they let the ball drop and God went to the Gentile without them. But the context is still dealing with the covenant people.