I'm really confused about the differences between Jewish practice and belief in Jesus' day, and now with the addition of and focus on the Mishna and Talmud over that of the Law and Prophets.

On top of that, every Jew I ask tells me they are not awaiting a savior for their sins. They're looking for political aid or an age of peace. Even the wikipedia entry on the Jewish Messiah doesn't say anything about a savior for sins.

It feels like there is a huge disconnect between the historic Judaism that Christianity is connected to versus the Judaism that exists today.

What's your perspective on this?