The Jewish Road Podcast

What You Think About Israelis Might Change (featuring Moshe & Sasha)

What You Think About Israelis Might Change
Israelis are often painted as aggressors - heartless warmongers driving their enemies from the land. But what if that narrative is missing the humanity of their story?
In this episode, we sit down with new friends Moshe and Sasha, who share what life really looks like in the middle of the chaos.
Imagine being uprooted from your home, moving four times in one year, all while figuring out how to keep your kids in school and put food on the table. Now, add to that the heartbreak of a tourism business collapsing under the weight of rockets and global fear. This isn’t just geopolitics - it’s survival.
But through it all, a remarkable shift emerges - a Jewish-Israeli perspective of Christians they never expected. Sasha shares her journey of discovering a love and warmth from believers in the West that has transformed her understanding of faith and reconciliation.
It’s a glimpse into how even in war, relationships can heal old wounds. This conversation will challenge what you think you know and leave you with a profound appreciation for the resilience of the Israeli people and the unexpected ways God is moving.
Key Takeaways
Life in Israel is more complicated than the media portrays—this is a story of survival, resilience, and unexpected hope.
Sasha’s perspective on Christians transformed from fear to trust, breaking long-held stereotypes.
Tourism, a cornerstone of Israel’s economy, has been devastated, leaving families scrambling to make ends meet.
God is at work in surprising ways, bringing reconciliation where division once reigned.
Chapter Markers
0:00 – Welcome and Introductions: Meet Moshe and Sasha, two Israelis with incredible stories to share.
2:45 – Moshe’s Journey: From software engineer to tour guide, connecting Christians to the land of the Bible.
9:30 – Sasha’s Story: Discovering her Jewish identity and her surprising encounters with Christian love.
16:20 – Life During War: The struggle of living through constant relocations, rockets, and economic hardship.
29:10 – Arab-Israeli Relations: A nuanced look at the dynamics between Jews and Arabs in Israel.
35:50 – Surprised by Christian Love: How encounters with Christians have reshaped Sasha’s worldview.
42:15 – Jewelry with Meaning: Sasha’s handmade creations that bring the beauty of Israel to the world.
48:30 – Theopolitics and Hope: Israel’s spiritual and global significance explained.
56:00 – Closing Encouragement: Ways to support Israel and bring hope to its people.
Visit BeautifulIsraelStore.com to bring a piece of Israel’s beauty and history into your life. Every purchase helps rebuild lives and sustain hope in the land where biblical stories unfolded - and continue today.
“Sha’alu Shalom Yerushalayim - Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” Keep the people of Israel in your prayers and hearts.
 

How Does A Church Stand With Israel?

How is it that today’s church can read a Bible rooted in Israel, focused on a Jewish Messiah, and authored by Jewish voices, yet somehow feel disconnected from the Jewish story?
Have we really allowed the narrative of God's chosen people to end 2,000 years ago, when in reality, it’s just getting good?
In this episode, "How Does A Church Stand With Israel?" we dig into the undeniable link between our faith and the ongoing story of Israel - a story still unfolding and intensifying in ways that truly demand our attention.
With longtime friend Pastor Jeremy Mercer of Connection Church in Corona, CA, we look at what it means to stand with Israel as a church. Jeremy shares how his church actively supports and prays for the Jewish people, building a community that stands with Israel not out of politics but as a fulfillment of biblical promises.
Together, we walk through strategies for making Israel a priority in our own churches and why, now more than ever, this matters deeply. On the other side of this conversation, you’ll have a better idea of how to embrace God’s promises for Israel and move from passive awareness to active blessing.
Key Points:
Faith in Action: Pastor Jeremy emphasizes how his church’s love for Israel goes beyond words, actively supporting and praying for the Jewish people.
Scriptural Foundation: The importance of understanding scripture in context, seeing the connection between Old and New Testaments, and grasping the Jewish roots of the faith.
Genuine Connection: Through long-lasting friendships and community support, Pastor Jeremy illustrates the power of relationships in ministry.
Responding to Current Events: Reflecting on the significance of supporting Israel during turbulent times, especially following recent events in Israel.
Teaching Contextually: The need for pastors to preach boldly on Israel's role in God’s plan, countering replacement theology and embracing the full narrative of scripture.
Pull Quotes:
"Without the Jewish story, we miss the full picture of God’s love story for His people."
"Our role as the church is not political but biblical when it comes to standing with Israel."
"Supporting Israel is more than a stance, it’s a journey of faithfulness to God’s promises."
Chapter Markers:
0:10 - 4:30: Introduction: Reconnecting with Pastor Jeremy and His Journey to Ministry
4:30 - 9:15: Faith and Friendship: Growing Up with Israel in Their Hearts
9:15 - 13:50: Biblical Foundations: How Scripture Informs Our Stand with Israel
13:50 - 18:30: Ministry Focus: Connection Church’s Commitment to Israel
18:30 - 23:00: Responding to Current Events: Praying for the Peace of Jerusalem
23:00 - 28:30: Humility in Ministry: How Pastors Can Seek Support and Wisdom
28:30 - 33:20: Supporting Israel Practically: Tips for Churches and Individuals
 

Don't Sit This One Out

Episode Description
Episode 113: "Don't Sit This One Out: Stand Like Esther with Your Vote"
With division on every front, some believers are stepping back, declaring "Jesus 2024: Our Only Hope." While it's a powerful reminder to keep our eyes on Him, it’s simply not enough to watch from the sidelines. Our faith calls us to be active, engaged, and responsible in our world - not passive spectators. This episode dives into why Christians must participate in the democratic process, even when it feels intimidating or divisive.
Drawing from the story of Esther, Ron and Matt discuss how God’s sovereignty doesn’t relieve us from action; it calls us to it. Esther didn’t sit back and “let go and let God” - she stepped up, even at personal risk, because the fate of her people depended on it. Today, as believers, we’re called to step up in our own way, and voting is one of those ways. The conversation covers not only the importance of this responsibility but also how our choices impact issues that matter deeply to God’s heart, including Israel and the direction of our nation.
Don’t sit this one out. Listen in to be inspired, challenged, and encouraged to show up, speak up, and cast your vote.
Key Takeaways
Faith in Action: How God’s sovereignty works through our responsibility.
The Power of Participation: Why neglecting our right to vote diminishes our influence in a divided world.
Standing with Israel: Understanding Israel’s central role in God’s plan and why it matters to the global Church.
Lessons from Esther: Courage in the face of fear and the willingness to risk for the greater good.
Chapter Markers
00:00 – Introduction: Why Every Vote Counts
02:13 – Division in America and the Christian Response
03:05 – Surprising Stats: 90 Million Christians, 40 Million Don’t Vote
05:27 – God's Sovereignty and Our Responsibility
07:48 – The Story of Esther: Partnering with God
10:11 – Esther's Moment of Courage: “If I perish, I perish”
12:33 – Why Israel Matters: A Lens for Understanding Today’s World

The Middle East Conflict & The Coming Kingdom

It’s a time of uncertainty, a time when the world seems increasingly divided, and the future is unpredictable.
For the Jewish people, the feast of Sukkot (Tabernacles) is a reminder of God's faithfulness in the wilderness. But how do we hold on to that ancient promise in the chaos of today’s world, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Israel?
This episode of The Jewish Road Podcast is about the deeper significance of Sukkot, the existential battle facing Israel, and how believers can respond in solidarity and prayer. 
Key Takeaways:
Sukkot as a Reminder: Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles) is a reminder of God’s provision and faithfulness to the Israelites during their wilderness journey, symbolizing hope and trust in God’s presence.
Current Events and Biblical Prophecy: The conflict in Israel today is not just another battle; it aligns with biblical prophecies and sets the stage for future events described in Scripture.
Global Antisemitism: The rise of antisemitism worldwide, particularly following the October 7th attacks, mirrors historical patterns, but on a global scale, showing a spiritual battle against God’s people.
The Christian Response: Christians are called to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and stand with Israel, advocating against anti-Israel sentiment and offering tangible support.
God’s Promise of the Kingdom: Sukkot also points forward to a time when God will establish His kingdom on earth, dwelling among His people and bringing peace. This hope anchors believers amidst the chaos.
Chapter Markers:
[00:00 - 03:00] - Introduction and Context: Overview of the current season and the significance of Sukkot for the Jewish community.
[03:01 - 08:00] - Sukkot in the Bible: Discussion on the biblical origins of Sukkot and its meaning as a reminder of God’s faithfulness in the wilderness.
[08:01 - 13:00] - The Modern Battle: Analysis of the October 7th attacks, the global rise of antisemitism, and Israel’s ongoing fight for survival.
[13:01 - 17:00] - Connecting Past and Present: How Sukkot ties into the future kingdom and the fulfillment of God’s promises amidst the current global unrest.
[17:01 - 23:41] - Christian Response and Call to Action: Encouragement for Christians to stand with Israel, pray for peace, and participate in being a light in dark times.

Rituals and Reflections on Yom Kippur

Episode Summary:
What if you waited your entire life, followed rituals painstakingly, prayed for atonement, but never really knew if you had been forgiven by God?
This is the reality for many in the Jewish community during Yom Kippur.
In this episode of The Jewish Road Podcast, we explore the Day of Atonement, looking into its significance for both Jews and Christians. We unpack the biblical roots of Yom Kippur, discuss its modern observance, and ask the critical question: if Jesus is the ultimate High Priest and the final atonement, what does that mean for us today?
5 Key Takeaways:
Yom Kippur in Jewish Tradition: Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day in Judaism, where Jewish people seek to make things right with God, often unsure of whether their efforts are enough.
Jesus as the Fulfillment of Atonement: The temple sacrifices and the role of the High Priest in Jewish history were shadows of what Jesus would ultimately fulfill as the final atonement for sin.
The Significance of the Scarlet Thread: For 40 years before the destruction of the Second Temple, the scarlet thread on the Yom Kippur scapegoat stopped turning white, symbolizing that the sacrifices were no longer accepted - coinciding with the death and resurrection of Jesus.
Jewish Rituals and the Messiah: Jewish traditions and practices, like the two goats on Yom Kippur, symbolically point to Jesus, who became both the sacrifice and the scapegoat for humanity's sins.
The Growing Openness in Israel: Amid military tension, young Israeli soldiers are increasingly looking toward God, with many becoming open to the idea of Jesus as the Messiah.
Chapter Markers:
00:10 – Introduction: Yom Kippur, the High Holy Days, and Israel's current state
03:00 – The Meaning of Yom Kippur and Jewish Rituals: A Time to Make Things Right
05:00 – Leviticus 16: The Scriptural Basis for the Day of Atonement
09:00 – Tale of Two Goats: The Sacrificial and Scapegoat Symbols
12:30 – The Scarlet Thread and Its Prophetic Significance
17:00 – The Shift in the Covenant: Jesus as the Final High Priest
21:30 – The Talmud and the Mysterious Change 40 Years Before the Temple’s Fall
26:00 – Hebrews: Jesus’ Role as the Ultimate High Priest and Fulfillment of the Atonement
29:00 – Israel Today: Spiritual Awakening and Openness to Jesus
31:26 – Closing Remarks: Praying for the Peace of Jerusalem

An Arab Israeli Who Loves The Jewish People? (featuring Robert Bishai)

Summary
How do you reconcile being both Arab and Israeli in a land of deep divisions?
For Robert "Ruby" Bishai, this tension is not only part of his personal journey but also the heartbeat of his ministry. Ruby, an Arab Israeli believer in Yeshua, has found a profound calling to serve both the Jewish and Arab people of Israel. Growing up in a Jewish town as an Arab Christian gave him a unique perspective on the challenges and beauty of these two cultures colliding.
Today, Ruby is a bridge between these worlds, striving to foster unity and bring the hope of Messiah to those who seem divided by history.
Through Fields of Wheat, the ministry Ruby serves with, he mentors young believers and supports soldiers during times of war - often being a living testimony of love across cultural boundaries. His passion stems from a deep sense of destiny, recognizing that God has called him to stand in the gap between Arabs and Jews, seeing the promise of Isaiah 19:24,25 come to life.
Ruby’s story is one of identity, reconciliation, and the unshakable hope that peace and salvation will come to both Arab and Jewish people.
Takeaways
Living as an Arab Israeli in Israel comes with its challenges, but Ruby Beshai embraces his unique identity and serves both the Arab and Jewish communities.
Fields of Wheat is a ministry in Israel that focuses on developing the youth and young adult believers and fostering unity between Jewish and Arab believers.
Ruby Beshai has had the opportunity to supply soldiers with equipment during times of war and has also shared the gospel with them, seeing an openness among the Jewish people.
Despite the conflicts and tensions in the Middle East, there is hope for peace and the salvation of both the Jewish and Arab people.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Setting
01:24 - Ruby's Background and Identity
03:20 - Growing Up in a Jewish Community
04:17 - Embracing a Unique Identity
06:16 - Fields of Wheat Ministry
07:13 - Ministry During Times of War
09:10 - The Impact of the War on the Next Generation
10:39 - Identity and Perception
13:07 - Perception by Jewish People and Arab Brothers and Sisters
14:03 - Arab Israelis and Palestinians
16:00 - Struggles with Identity and Faith
19:21 - Hope in Fulfilling the Potential of the Jewish People
21:16 - Hope for Peace in the Middle East
22:12 - Perceptions of Israel and the Conflict
25:06 - Unity Among Arab Israelis
29:50 - Freedom and Hope in Israel
31:43 - Hope for Peace and Salvation
35:41 - Bringing Good News to the Jewish People
36:08 - Sharing Perspectives and Bringing Understanding

The Weird Apostle (featuring Ryan Lambert)

Summary
Imagine discovering that one of the most influential figures in Biblical history may have been misunderstood for centuries. That’s the compelling problem Ryan Lambert tackles in his book, The Weird Apostle. As a Messianic Jew, Lambert challenges the traditional portrayal of the Apostle Paul, urging us to see Paul not as a renegade who sought to break away from Judaism, but as a devoted Jew who remained faithful to the Torah.
In our latest episode of The Jewish Road Podcast, Lambert shares his deep passion for building bridges between Christians and Jews, shining a new light on Paul's mission and his message.
Lambert argues that by understanding Paul within his Jewish context, we can undo centuries of replacement theology that has strained Christian-Jewish relations. He points out that Paul never intended to create a new religion but sought instead to unite Jews and Gentiles under the worship of the one true God. And far from being a distant theologian, Paul was a real man writing letters to real communities, with a sense of urgency about the return of the Messiah.
Lambert’s insights invite us to reconsider Paul’s legacy and the rich, shared history between Jews and Christians, opening the door to greater unity and understanding in our faith journeys.
Takeaways
Understanding Paul in his Jewish context can challenge the traditional narrative and improve relationships between Jews and Christians.
Paul was a faithful Jew who upheld the Torah and did not seek to replace Judaism with Christianity.
The Jewishness of Jesus is widely recognized, but the Jewishness of Paul is often overlooked.
Reframing Paul's role as a bridge between Judaism and Christianity can help foster dialogue and understanding. Paul believed that the end was near and expected the Messiah's return in his lifetime.
Paul's letters were intended for real communities and not as theological texts for future generations.
Replacement theology has created division between Christians and Jews and goes against Paul's message.
Paul's message was intended to join Jews and non-Jews together under the worship of the one true God.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Prayer
01:16 - Meeting Ryan Lambert at the Israel Summit
06:54 - Discovering Messianic Judaism
10:48 - Passion for Building Bridges Between Christians and Jews
15:37 - Fascination with the Apostle Paul
23:36 - Paul as the Fulcrum of Jewish and Christian History
25:23 - Paul's Urgency and Expectation
27:14 - Paul as a Letter Writer
30:22 - The Impact of Replacement Theology
39:23 - Joining Jews and Non-Jews in Worship

Should Christians Support Israel? (featuring Dr. Jeff Myers)

Summary
Why do so many Christians misunderstand the conflict in Israel, and what should we do about it? In our latest episode, we dive into this pressing issue with Dr. Jeff Myers, President of Summit Ministries. Dr. Myers shares his insights from a recent trip to Israel and explores why the rising generation has so many misconceptions about this critical region.
We discuss the complex layers of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, breaking down the difference between geopolitical and theopolitical issues and why understanding the religious motivations behind the conflict is essential. Dr. Myers also sheds light on how current events in Israel relate to biblical prophecies and the multiple war fronts Israel is facing today.
Together, we unpack the history of Israel, its ongoing conflict with Hamas, and the broader geopolitical implications. We explore the concept of a just war and why it’s crucial for Christians to support Israel. This conversation isn't just about taking sides—it's about engaging in informed, meaningful discussions that matter. Join us as we navigate this complex and vital topic.
Takeaways
Dr. Jeff Myers wrote a book inspired by his trip to Israel in January and the need to address the rising generation's misconceptions about Israel.
There is a difference between geopolitical and theopolitical conflicts, with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict being theopolitical due to varying understandings of religious truth.
Biblical prophecies have been fulfilled in the existence of the current nation of Israel, but there are still prophecies yet to be fulfilled.
Israel is facing multiple war fronts, including conflicts with Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, and the West Bank. The situation in Israel is complex and constantly evolving, with the potential for conflict at any time.
Understanding the history and geopolitical implications of the conflict is crucial for informed discussions.
The concept of a just war is important in evaluating Israel's actions and defending its right to self-defense.
Young adults, including Christians, are increasingly influenced by anti-Israel propaganda and need to be presented with the facts.
Supporting Israel is not the same as agreeing with every Israeli policy, but it is important for Christians to stand with Israel in the face of rising anti-Israel sentiment.
Sound Bites
"51% of young Americans sided with Hamas in the battle between Hamas and Israel."
"Young adults' views on Israel can be changed with the presentation of facts."
"Iran believes they cannot achieve their desired apocalyptic aims as long as Israel exists."
"Israel's policing of the West Bank. So any of these situations could break into a war at any time."
"Does Israel have a legitimate right to exist? And is it ever going to be possible to manage the peace in the region as long as Hamas exists as a military governing force?"
"A just peace is one in which righteousness prevails when right is done. An unjust peace or a shameful peace is a peace in which evil is allowed to prevail."
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background
04:23 - Inspiration for the Book and Trip to Israel
08:41 - The Difference Between Geopolitical and Theopolitical Conflicts
13:16 - The Impact of Facts on Young Adults' Views on Israel
19:34 - The Religious Motivations Behind the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
21:31 - Biblical Prophecies and the Existence of Israel
23:26 - Israel's Multiple War Fronts
26:16 - The Theopolitical Nature of the Conflict
28:59 - The Concept of a Just War
36:09 - Why Christians Should Support Israel
Find out more about Summit Ministries: https://www.summit.org/Click here to get a copy of of Jeff's book, Should Christians Support Israel.

First-Century Youth Ministry (featuring Heather Quiroz)

Summary
 
Heather Quiroz, founder of First-Century Youth Ministry, joins Matt and Ron Davis on the Jewish Road Podcast to discuss her ministry and the importance of understanding Jesus from within his Jewish context. Heather shares her experience of walking the land of Israel as a first-century disciple and how it radically changed her perspective on the Bible. She emphasizes the need to teach young people the Bible from its cultural and historical context, helping them see the deeper meaning behind the text. Heather's ministry aims to equip youth leaders with resources and knowledge to make disciples who have a strong foundation in the Jewish roots of their faith.
 
Takeaways
Understanding Jesus from within his Jewish context can radically transform one's faith and deepen their understanding of the Bible.
Teaching young people the Bible from its cultural and historical context helps them see the deeper meaning behind the text and strengthens their faith.
Youth leaders play a crucial role in equipping young people with a strong foundation in the Jewish roots of their faith.
There is a need for resources and support for youth leaders to effectively teach the Jewish context of the Bible.
Sound Bites
"Walking the land as if she were a first-century disciple following a rabbi."
"Knowing the Bible from within its near Eastern context helps all of scripture make more sense and come to life."
"Studying the Bible differently, not just reading it at face value, but considering the cultural and historical context."
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Welcome
02:26 - First Century Youth Ministry
05:19 - Walking the Land as a First-Century Disciple
10:07 - The Impact of Understanding the Jewish Context
14:48 - Teaching Youth with Cultural and Historical Context
23:19 - Connecting with First-Century Youth Ministry

Links To Messiah (featuring Rachel Kushner)

In this conversation, Ron and Matt Davis interview Rachel Kushner, the CEO (Chief Enthusiasm Officer) of Links to Messiah. They discuss Rachel's background growing up in a Messianic Jewish home, the inspiration behind her ministry, and the importance of bridging the gap between the Old and New Testaments.
Rachel shares how Links to Messiah provides resources and activities for families to engage with Jewish holidays and traditions, helping them understand the Jewish roots of their faith. The conversation highlights the significance of family engagement and the joy of learning about the Bible in a fun and interactive way.
Takeaways
Links to Messiah is a ministry that provides resources and activities for families to engage with Jewish holidays and traditions.
The ministry aims to bridge the gap between the Old and New Testaments, helping families understand the Jewish roots of their faith.
Family engagement is crucial in teaching children about the Bible and creating a lifelong relationship with Jesus.
Learning about the Bible can be fun and interactive, and it doesn't have to be boring.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
02:49 - Rachel's Background
05:49 - Rachel's Father's Story
07:23 - Links to Messiah Ministry
10:01 - Connecting the Hebrew Scriptures to Yeshua Jesus
12:01 - The Importance of Family Engagement
15:45 - Bridging the Gap between the Old and New Testament
19:51 - The Role of Links to Messiah in Equipping Families
21:24 - Rachel's Enthusiasm and Joy
23:04 - Upcoming Events and Resources
25:02 - Closing Remarks