The Jewish Road Podcast

The New Anti-Semitism (with Olivier Melnick)

In this urgent episode of the Jewish Road Podcast, we sit down with Olivier Melnick to tackle the issue of antisemitism—a problem more widespread and relevant than many realize. Especially given last week's tragic attacks that ended over 1,300 Israeli lives, this is a conversation we can't afford to ignore. Olivier, a French Messianic Jew, provides crucial insights into the origins and endurance of antisemitism, from its Biblical beginnings to its alarming resurgence in the modern world.
Why should you tune in? Because this issue isn't confined to Israel and Gaza. As we speak, anti-Israel and pro-Palestinian rallies are cropping up globally, even right here in our own city of Lexington, Kentucky. The fight against antisemitism is happening in our backyards, and it's time we all take notice. We discuss the factors fueling this hatred today and extend a heartfelt call to action for Christians in Western churches. This episode urges us all to go beyond passive concern and step up as defenders of justice and peace.
In a world reeling from violence and division, let this episode be your call to stand up, speak out, and act. Because indifference and ignorance are not options — especially now.
Follow Olivier at Chosen People Ministries and find his books on Amazon.

Hope In The Holy Land (with Justin Kron)

We have the distinct privilege of welcoming Justin Kron, a friend deeply invested in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and someone who brings a well-rounded perspective to the table. As the founding director of the Kesher Project and the co-creator and producer of the documentary "Hope in the Holy Land," Justin helps to unpack the layers of this deeply rooted conflict that affects Jews, Muslims, and Christians alike.
With years of hands-on experience, leading tours in the Holy Land and engaging with people on both sides of the conflict, Justin provides insights that go beyond common narratives. This isn't about dismissing political complexities; it's about diving into them to uncover the human stories that are often overshadowed.
Justin takes us through some of the pivotal moments and key players in the history of this geopolitical struggle, offering a more nuanced understanding of what is at stake. This isn't just about territorial disputes or religious differences. It's about people's lives, their histories, and their futures.
Follow Justin at The Kesher Project and watch the movie at Hope In The Holy Land.

The War In Israel

We start season five reluctantly, sooner than we thought, and the subject matter feels devastating.
We come to you with a burdened heart, focusing on the conflict tearing through the Holy Land of Israel. As we record this episode, rockets rain down and families are torn apart. This isn’t just a geopolitical issue, it's yet another somber chapter the Jewish people are living and dying through.
Hatred has clouded compassion, making this not just about territory, but about the human heart. It's deeply personal for us, for the people we love, and it should be for you too. So, in the midst of this sorrow, what are we called to do?
In a world that often trivializes such conflicts into hashtags and headlines, we don't forget the genuine spiritual warfare happening behind the scenes. Israel is at a critical juncture. The need is urgent.
We invite you to join us in this moment marking the beginning of a battle for the heart and soul of the Jewish nation, recognizing that when words fail and actions seem inadequate, our prayers can still reach the heart of God. 

From Feast To Forever: Sukkot And The Coming Kingdom

In "From Feast to Forever: Sukkot and the Coming Kingdom," we unpack the richness and layers of Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles. Beginning with its historical roots, we show how Sukkot serves as a mirror for God's desire to be present with His people. The festival isn't just a one-off event, it's deeply connected to a theme woven into the fabric of the meta-narrative. From the Garden of Eden to future prophecies, God's ultimate goal has always been to dwell among His people.
There are some little-known aspects of Sukkot, including its extensive number of sacrifices. Ever wonder why 70 bulls were sacrificed during this holiday? It's a figure symbolizing God's outreach to the nations of the world. We discuss the significance of this ritual ending in 70 AD and its implications for the future.
This episode also explores how Sukkot appears in the New Testament, specifically in the story of the Transfiguration. Like the disciples, many of us find ourselves asking: When will He bring the kingdom?
As we move through the episode, we'll see that the festival of Sukkot provides valuable insights into this question.
If you've pondered God's bigger plan for humanity, this episode offers a look into how Sukkot encapsulates both God's past actions and future promises. You'll find a deepening understanding of this feast as not just an ancient tradition, but a vital part of God's ongoing narrative with us.
 

The Scapegoat That Became The G.O.A.T. (Yom Kippur)

Here we are, at the peak of the Ten Days of Awe, Yom Kippur. It's the Day of Atonement, a time when many Jewish people fast, pray, and attend synagogue services.
This solemn day carries enormous significance. It's not just a day to say sorry, but to truly reflect on one's actions and seek genuine atonement.
While the weight of the day is profoundly felt in Jewish communities, it also offers an extraordinary moment for us as followers of Jesus to recognize Him as our ultimate atonement.

No Longer Bound: Released From Sin Into Salvation

The human soul seems hardwired to long for atonement—a strong, sometimes desperate, desire for forgiveness and release. This is a sentiment that echoes across cultures and religious practices, revealing a shared yearning to be set right with God.
As we delve into this episode, we find in the story of the Akedah a vivid representation of how far God was willing to go to grant us that atonement. "God will provide for himself the lamb for a burnt offering, my son," Abraham tells Isaac, echoing a promise fulfilled through Jesus (Genesis 22:8).
Akedah literally means, “The Binding,” and recounts the story of Abraham taking his “one and only son” Isaac to the top of Moriah to sacrifice him.

Cast My Sins Into The Depths Of The Sea (Tashlich)

There is the practice of Tashlich, a deeply symbolic ceremony that resonates with believers of all backgrounds.
As the sun sets and the day comes to an end, many Jewish people flock to rivers and streams, emptying their pockets or throwing pieces of bread into the water.
This simple yet powerful act serves as a physical embodiment of letting go, a casting away of sins and burdens.
For Christians, it's hard not to think of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, the Messiah, who makes it possible to truly cast our sins "as far as the east is from the west."

What Does It Mean To Return To The Lord? (Shabbat Shuvah)

Central to the Days of Awe is what we call Shabbat Shuvah, or the "Sabbath of Return."
Situated between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, this Shabbat holds a special significance. It serves as a momentary pause, a sacred interval for personal and communal reflection.
In a season filled with introspection and repentance, Shabbat Shuvah invites us to come home - to return to the Lord with all our hearts.
For Christians, this idea of "returning" finds its full expression in the grace and redemption offered through Jesus, our Messiah.

What Will We Do For Atonement?

The human soul carries a deep yearning for atonement.
In cultures around the world and across the broad expanse of religious thought, rituals and traditions abound, highlighting the lengths we go to find relief from the weight of our mistakes and misdeeds.
The Jewish people are no different.
As followers of Jesus, we know that our atonement not only covered our sins once for the next year, but also forgave our sins once and for all. 

Where Can We Show Kindness?

The concept of Tzedakah, often translated as “charity,” but more accurately understood as righteousness or justice.
Giving isn't merely a charitable endeavor, but an ethical obligation.
For Christians, this resonates deeply with the New Testament teachings on almsgiving and love for neighbor. Here, the idea of 'faith without works is dead' rings loud and clear.