Most people think of Hanukkah as the “Jewish Christmas,” a cultural celebration with candles, dreidels, and chocolate coins. But the real story is far older, far weightier, and far more connected to the story of Jesus than many Christians realize. Hanukkah is a story about attempted erasure, courageous resistance, and God’s unstoppable commitment to preserve His covenant promises. In this episode, we walk through the rise of Antiochus, the Seleucid king who sought not only to dominate Israel but to erase its identity - banning circumcision, outlawing Torah, desecrating the Temple, and demanding assimilation. Yet when the majority gave way to cultural pressure, a few refused to bow. The Maccabees stood when others surrendered, preserving the line through which Messiah would one day come. And 150 years later, during this very feast, Jesus walked in the Temple and declared Himself the Light of the World. The same God who preserved His people through the few stands faithful today. Hanukkah isn’t merely history; it is a lens for understanding the spiritual battles of our own moment and the hope of the King who will come again. Key Takeaways Hanukkah is rooted in real biblical history - not legend - and is foreshadowed in Daniel’s visions. Antiochus Epiphanes sought to erase Jewish identity and break the covenant line of David. The Maccabees embodied “the few” whom God uses to preserve His promises. The real miracle of Hanukkah is God’s covenant faithfulness, not just the oil. Jesus celebrated Hanukkah (John 10:22) and used the feast to reveal His identity. The spirit of Antiochus - the antichrist spirit - still rises in every generation. Hanukkah points forward to the return of Messiah, the true Light of the World. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Childhood stories, Hanukkah misunderstandings 04:00 – What Hanukkah looked like generations ago 07:00 – Setting the biblical-historical stage 11:00 – Daniel’s prophecy and the rise of Antiochus 16:00 – The desecration of the Temple 20:00 – The Maccabees and the courage of the few 25:00 – Guerrilla war and the rededication of the Temple 29:00 – The legend of the oil vs. the real miracle 33:00 – Jesus and Hanukkah in John 10 38:00 – The spirit of antichrist then and now 43:00 – The coming Deliverer and the hope ahead Explore more resources and upcoming events at thejewishroad.com. Discover where we’ll be sharing the Hanukkah story across the country at thejewishroad.com/light. Join The Few who make this work possible by supporting The Jewish Road and helping us tell the story that holds the whole Bible together.
For many Christians, the divide between the church and the Jewish people feels ancient and immovable. But every divide has a story - and far too often, it’s a story Christians never heard. In this episode, we sit down with long-time friend and ministry leader Murray Tilles of Light of Messiah Ministries to uncover why Jesus remains such a point of pain for many Jewish families, and why the church’s calling toward Israel is more urgent than ever. Murray shares his own journey from a deeply religious Jewish upbringing in North Carolina to the moment he prayed “in Jesus’ name” - words he never imagined he would say. His story isn’t abstract. It’s threaded with family tension, synagogue life, anti-Semitism, and the surprising power of Scripture to reshape identity. And it’s a window into the very real barriers Jewish people face when confronted with a “Christian” Jesus who feels historically disconnected from their people. Together, we explore why the New Testament is far more Jewish than most Christians realize, why Paul’s “to the Jew first” mission still matters today, and how today’s rising anti-Semitism is creating unexpected openness among Jewish communities - if the church knows how to build trust. Murray helps believers move from abstract support to real relational bridge-building, from sentiment to substance, from generic evangelism to meaningful connection rooted in God’s covenant faithfulness. Key Takeaways Many Jewish people associate Jesus with centuries of suffering done “in His name,” making belief in Him feel like a betrayal of their people. Murray’s journey began not with pressure but with Scripture - especially Isaiah 53 - leading him into a relationship with Israel’s own Messiah. Paul’s model was never “either Israel or the nations.” His strategy was always “to the Jew first,” expecting the church to carry that mantle. Replacement theology remains one of the biggest obstacles preventing Christians from seeing Scripture as one unified story. Today’s cultural moment - including post-October 7 Jewish vulnerability - has opened new doors for relationship and witness. Simple gestures - apples and honey, Hanukkah blessings, relationship-first approaches - create space for meaningful spiritual conversations. The continued existence of the Jewish people is itself a testimony to God’s covenant promises and ongoing plan for Israel and the world. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction 00:19 – Meeting Murray & Ministry Connections 00:58 – Growing Up in a Religious Jewish Home 03:15 – Encountering Scripture for the First Time 04:19 – Discovering Jesus in the New Testament 05:28 – Family Tension, Cost, and Reconciliation 07:43 – Why Jesus Is Hard for Jewish People 09:57 – Anti-Semitism, History, and Misunderstanding 14:37 – The Jewishness of Jesus 17:39 – The Church’s Calling “To the Jew First” 22:51 – How Light of Messiah Reaches Jewish People 26:56 – Openness Since October 7 30:22 – Conspiracy Theories & Rising Confusion 33:06 – God’s Faithfulness to Preserve Israel 36:22 – How to Connect With Murray & Next Steps Explore more resources, episodes, and guides at thejewishroad.com. Connect with Murray Tilles and Light of Messiah Ministries at LightofMessiah.org and on Instagram @LightOfMessiahATL. Learn about the Lausanne Consultation on Jewish Evangelism at lcje-na.org, including the upcoming Atlanta conference. Become one of The Few who stand with us and help advance this work at thejewishroad.com.
In a world where Israel is headline news every day, most people are trying to interpret events through a fog of bias, misinformation, and instant reaction culture. We sat down with longtime Jerusalem-based journalist Nicole Jansezian to ask a simple question that’s not simple at all: How do we know what’s actually true? What unfolded was an inside look at the fractured media landscape inside Israel and the ideological forces shaping the region. Nicole helps us slow down and understand why the Middle East defies the easy categories most Westerners reach for. Israel’s political divisions don’t map onto America’s left-right spectrum. Palestinian society is not monolithic. And both sides live with historic, cultural, and religious dynamics that rarely show up in the headlines. When we oversimplify, we miss the deeper story - and the deeper human reality. This conversation is for anyone who wants discernment in an age of propaganda. We explore why speed has replaced accuracy, why influencers often outrun truth, and why we need a long view shaped by Scripture, not by algorithms. For Christians seeking to understand Israel, this isn’t just geopolitics - it’s about returning to the story God has been telling since Genesis and learning to see the world the way He sees it. Key Takeaways Israel’s internal political spectrum is far more complex than the American left–right divide. Headlines often frame events without context, leading to widespread misunderstanding. Influencer-driven “news” prioritizes speed and virality over verification. Propaganda is not always overt; sometimes it’s subtle, soft influence that shapes perception. Ideology - religious, historic, territorial - drives Middle Eastern decisions more than economics. The media environment inside Israel is deeply divided, with competing narratives shaping public opinion. Christians must pursue discernment by slowing down, asking better questions, and grounding their understanding in Scripture. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Welcome and introduction from Jerusalem 01:20 – Nicole’s story: from Queens to the Middle East 04:00 – Why Israeli politics don’t mirror America 08:30 – Divisions inside Israel after October 7 13:45 – How to read news with discernment 16:45 – The rise of influencers and the loss of verification 21:00 – Why analysis is disappearing from modern news 23:00 – Ideological drivers of the Middle East 30:20 – Propaganda and soft influence 37:00 – Where to follow Nicole’s reporting To go deeper into conversations that reconnect the whole Bible and illuminate God’s ongoing story with Israel and the nations, explore more resources at thejewishroad.com, join us on an upcoming trip to Israel, consider becoming one of The Few who support this work regularly, and follow today’s guest at nicjan.com and on her YouTube channel for on-the-ground reporting from Jerusalem.
Most of us learned the Lord’s Prayer before we understood what it was doing. It became a ritual, something recited rather than lived. But when Jesus’ words are returned to their original world - the Jewish people under Roman rule, the long ache for redemption, the hope of a coming kingdom - the prayer opens up in ways most modern readers have never seen. It becomes less a mantra and more a mission. In this conversation with Brad Gray and Brad Nelson of Walking the Text, we explore why context is not a luxury but a lifeline. Jesus wasn’t offering a poetic devotional. He was giving His disciples a framework for partnering with God, joining the story that began in the Exodus, and learning to embody the kingdom He announced. Every line reaches back to Israel’s history and forward to God’s future, shaping a people who would carry His reign into the world. From the clash of kingdoms under Rome, to the Jewish practice of communal prayer, to the way the early disciples finally recognized the kingdom at Shavuot, this episode invites us to see the prayer not as ancient words but as a daily blueprint. This is what it means to bring heaven here - to live as a people formed by the Father, trusting His provision, forgiving like He forgives, and resisting the powers that distort His world. Key Takeaways Context is not extra; it’s everything. Jesus assumed His listeners knew the Jewish, historical, and literary world behind His words. The Lord’s Prayer sits at the “center of the center” of the Sermon on the Mount - Matthew’s way of spotlighting Jesus’ mission. Every phrase echoes the Exodus story and frames Jesus as the new Moses leading a new Exodus. “Daily bread” held layers: Israel’s wilderness manna, Rome’s grain system, and the hope of Messiah’s provision. Ancient Jewish prayer was communal, formational, and participatory - not merely expressive. Jesus’ kingdom message is not about escaping earth but joining God’s work of renewing it. Salvation isn’t the finish line; it’s the starting point for disciples who bring God’s reign into the world. Chapter Markers 00:00 — Why Context Changes Everything 01:20 — What the Biblical Writers Assumed We Knew 04:20 — Discovering the Bible in “Technicolor” 06:15 — When the Lord’s Prayer Becomes Personal 09:00 — The Prayer’s Literary Center and the New Exodus 10:20 — Rome, Herod, and the Clash of Kingdoms 14:45 — Why the Disciples Needed to Be Taught to Pray 18:40 — What Jesus Is Really Forming Through This Prayer 21:00 — Kingdom, Salvation, and the Mission of Disciples 26:30 — The Phrase That Transformed Everything 29:00 — Why “For Thine Is the Kingdom…” Isn’t Original 31:50 — The Film, the Book, and the Global Project 38:00 — The Vision Behind Bringing Heaven Here Explore more resources, teachings, and Israel study opportunities at https://thejewishroad.com. To connect with Brad Gray and Brad Nelson, and to find the film The Lord’s Prayer and the book Bringing Heaven Here, visit https://thelordsprayer.com - your one-stop hub for the film, book, and upcoming series.
Can you question what Israel’s government is doing and still stand with Israel in a biblical way? Many Christians feel trapped between blind support on one side and hostility on the other. In a noisy moment filled with slogans and hot takes, the conversation needs more covenant, not less. In this episode we step back into the big story of Scripture to separate three things most people blur together: Israel’s government, the Jewish people, and God’s eternal covenant. We look at the prophets, at Jesus, at Paul, and at the Gospel of John to see how the Bible itself models sharp internal critique without ever erasing God’s promises to Israel. You will come away with a simple “compass” you can use before you tweet, preach, repost, or debate. The goal is not to tell you what to think about every policy, but to help you think inside the covenant story of God, so that your words carry truth, humility, and hope for both Israel and the nations. Key Takeaways The Bible gives a long history of covenant insiders critiquing Israel’s leaders while still honoring God’s choice of Israel. Nathan with David, Elijah with Ahab, the prophets, and Jesus in Jerusalem all confront sin to call Israel back, not to cancel the covenant. Romans 11 holds two truths together: regarding the gospel, Israel is an enemy; regarding election, they are beloved, and God’s calling is irrevocable. “The Jews” in John is better understood as “the Judeans” or specific authorities in conflict, not a timeless verdict on all Jewish people. Israel’s government is not the same as the Jewish people, and the people are not the same as the covenant; those distinctions really matter. Many Jewish people have real zeal for the God of Abraham, yet lack saving knowledge of Yeshua; our posture must be truth with tears, not contempt. A simple four-question “compass” can help you speak about Israel in ways that invite repentance, resist double standards, and refuse erasing language. Chapter Markers 00:00 Plywood palace, welcome, and why this conversation matters 04:00 Can I critique Israel and not be anti-Semitic? 08:30 Nathan, Elijah, the prophets, and Jesus as covenant critics 18:00 Romans 11: enemies, beloved, and irrevocable calling 26:30 John’s “the Jews,” Dale Partridge, and dangerous generalizations 37:00 Government vs people vs covenant: three crucial distinctions 47:00 A four-question compass for faithful critique 54:00 Hanukkah teaser, ministry update, and invitation to partner In a moment when many are either shouting at Israel or defending her without discernment, this episode offers a biblical path that refuses both contempt and confusion. Listen in, explore more resources at thejewishroad.com, consider coming with us to Israel, and prayerfully ask if God is inviting you to be one of The Few who regularly support this work.
There’s a rising chorus of voices - some hostile, others simply misinformed - claiming that modern Jews aren’t the same people God called His own in Scripture. In this episode, we sit down with Messianic teacher Mottel Baleston to dismantle the Khazar conspiracy and explore the deeper theological question behind it: Are the Jewish people of today truly the covenant people of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? Baleston traces the Jewish story through Scripture, history, and even modern genetics to show that God’s promises have never been revoked. The Jewish people remain central to His plan of redemption, not as spiritual relics, but as living proof that God keeps His word. This isn’t just about disproving bad history - it’s about recovering biblical clarity for the Church and real love for Israel. Key Takeaways The Khazar theory is a debunked 20th-century myth rooted in antisemitism, not scholarship. Scripture defines Jewish identity through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob - not conspiracy or culture. There have always been Jews in the Land of Israel - always. Modern DNA studies (Stanford & Wayne State) confirm genetic continuity with ancient Israel. The myth that “the Church replaced Israel” contradicts Romans 11, where Paul warns Gentile believers not to boast. Being “chosen” is not about superiority - it’s about responsibility to reveal God’s glory to the nations. Every believer has a calling: to reject antisemitism and stand with God’s eternal covenant people. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Welcome & intro to Mottel Baleston 03:20 – The real question: Are modern Jews biblical Israel? 08:15 – Who is a Jew? Scripture’s definition 10:30 – The three Jewish diasporas: Ashkenazi, Sephardi, Mizrahi 18:40 – The rise of the Khazar myth 26:00 – DNA, history, and debunking conspiracy 36:00 – The spiritual roots of antisemitism 45:00 – God’s covenant faithfulness in Romans 11 48:30 – Where to learn more from Mottel Baleston Explore more resources and join the journey at thejewishroad.com. Dive deeper into Mottel Baleston’s teaching at messiahnj.org or on YouTube by searching “Mottel Baleston”- and discover how God’s promises to Israel still shape our faith today.
Why would God restore Israel to the Land if they don’t believe in Jesus? That’s the question many Christians wrestle with - and the one Ezekiel 36 answers head-on. In this wide-ranging conversation with filmmaker and Bible teacher Stephen Briggs of Hatikva Films, we explore the prophetic timeline of Israel’s restoration, the continuity of God’s covenant with Abraham, and the flaws in replacement theology that blur the story of Scripture. Together we trace how the Hebrew nuances of Genesis 12, the promises of Ezekiel 36, and the disciples’ question in Acts 1 all reveal the same truth: God’s faithfulness comes before Israel’s faith. Stephen shares insights from life in Jerusalem, stories from the “Blessing, Curse, or Coincidence” film series, and a clear-eyed view of what God is doing in our generation. Whether we’re talking about prophecy, politics, or discipleship, the message is the same - the restoration of Israel is the greatest evidence that God keeps His promises. Key Takeaways God’s covenant with Israel is unconditional and still active. Ezekiel 36 sets the divine order: regather first, renew next. Israel’s unbelief magnifies God’s grace, not His absence. Replacement theology collapses when read against Scripture’s storyline. Modern Israel’s return is the stage for future spiritual renewal. Believers are invited to pray, comfort, give, and go. God’s faithfulness to Israel confirms His faithfulness to us. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Cold open + welcome 02:10 – Introducing Stephen Briggs: filmmaker, Jerusalem resident 07:35 – God’s faithfulness and the modern return of Israel 13:20 – Genesis 12 and the Hebrew meaning of “bless” and “curse” 18:55 – Ezekiel 36: the order of restoration and renewal 26:40 – The flaw in replacement theology 33:25 – The “Israel Effect” and history’s witness 39:45 – Acts 1: the disciples’ question and God’s timeline 47:10 – Practical response: pray, comfort, give, go 52:00 – Closing reflections and resources If you’ve never seen the Bible in full color, it’s time to walk the ancient paths yourself. Join us in Israel this March 21–31 and experience the story where it all began. Stand where the prophets spoke, where Yeshua walked, and where God’s promises are still unfolding. Space is limited - visit thejewishroad.com/israel to learn more and reserve your spot. Want to see how God’s promise to bless those who bless Israel is playing out in history? Watch the full film America and the Israel Effect - free from Revelation Media. Go to get.revelationmedia.org/watchtheisraeleffect. To explore more of Stephen Briggs’ work and the Blessing, Curse, or Coincidence series, visit israel-matters.com or follow the Israel Matters podcast on YouTube and Spotify.
Why did Paul end his masterpiece in Romans with a promise that “all Israel will be saved”? What does that mean - and has it already happened, or is it still to come? In this wide-ranging conversation with Dr. Michael Brown, author of Our Hands Are Stained with Blood and host of The Line of Fire, we trace how Romans 9–11 reveals the continuity of God’s plan for Israel and the nations. Dr. Brown unpacks Paul’s argument verse by verse, explains why replacement theology opened the door to antisemitism in church history, and clarifies how “all Israel” refers to a future national turning to Messiah - not merely a cumulative remnant. We also talk about the surge of antisemitism after October 7, the confusion in the modern church, and why believers must recover a biblical vision of Israel’s role in redemptive history. This isn’t a side issue. It’s the center of the gospel’s story of mercy. Key Takeaways Romans 11 completes the gospel logic: if Israel’s rejection brought salvation to the world, her acceptance will bring life from the dead. “All Israel” means a future national turning, not just a historical remnant. The gifts and calling of God are irrevocable - for Israel and for the Church. Replacement theology helped pave the way for centuries of antisemitism. Understanding Israel clarifies the gospel’s continuity from Abraham to today. The Church’s calling is to provoke Israel to envy, not erase her identity. God’s covenant faithfulness guarantees Israel’s future redemption. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Intro + welcome to Dr. Michael Brown 05:00 – Antisemitism and replacement theology after October 7 09:30 – Romans 9–11 overview - Paul’s logic for Israel’s future 15:40 – “All Israel will be saved”: what Paul actually meant 18:00 – Grafted in vs. replaced - understanding the olive tree 24:00 – How the Church lost its Jewish roots 31:00 – The rise of antisemitism in a TikTok generation 36:00 – What believers can do now - pray, speak, stand 44:00 – Dr. Brown’s upcoming debates & resource Romans 11 ends with worship because God’s mercy story ends in faithfulness. “All Israel will be saved” is not wishful thinking - it’s covenant reality. Listen to the full episode, explore more resources at The Jewish Road, join our Israel trip (March 21–31), and become one of The Few who help us bring clarity to the Church and comfort to Israel.
For centuries, a single line from Paul’s letter to the Romans - “not all Israel is Israel” - has been used to rewrite the story of God’s faithfulness. But was Paul really declaring that the Church replaced Israel? Or was he weeping over his people, trusting that God’s promises still stand? This episode takes a deep look into Romans 9–11 and Galatians 6, unpacking what Paul meant by “the Israel of God” and how a single mistranslated conjunction has shaped two millennia of confusion. We’ll explore the grief behind Paul’s words, the endurance of God’s covenants, and the modern drift that has led Christians to read prophecy as poetry and Israel’s story as metaphor. As anti-Semitism rises and theology grows foggy, it’s time to recover what the Apostle Paul never meant to erase: that Israel’s unbelief doesn’t cancel God’s faithfulness - it magnifies it. Key Takeaways Paul’s “anguish and unceasing sorrow” in Romans 9 reveals grief, not rejection. “Not all Israel is Israel” distinguishes the nation from its remnant, not Israel from the Church. God’s covenants - Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic, and New - remain active and irrevocable. “The Israel of God” (Gal. 6:16) refers to Jewish believers, not the Church replacing Israel. Translation shifts like changing “and” to “even” have fueled replacement theology. The Church’s inclusion in God’s plan never meant Israel’s exclusion. When we forget Israel, we lose the storyline of our own salvation. Chapter Markers (Approximate) 00:00 – Why “Not All Israel Is Israel” Is Misunderstood 05:00 – Paul’s Heartbreak and the Faithfulness of God 14:00 – Israel’s Covenants Still Stand 22:00 – The Real Meaning of “The Israel of God” 30:00 – How History and Translation Warped the Story 40:00 – Why This Matters for the Church Today 46:00 – God’s Faithfulness and the Invitation to Clarity God’s promises to Israel were never revoked - they’re being fulfilled before our eyes. The story of redemption still runs through Jerusalem. Don’t just listen - learn to read Scripture the way Paul wrote it: with tears in your eyes and hope in your heart. Explore more resources at thejewishroad.com, join us on the journey to Israel, or become one of The Few - standing with us as we help the Church make sense of God’s story for Israel and the nations.
The story of Jesus doesn’t begin in Bethlehem - it begins in Genesis. Rabbi Jason Sobel joins us to explore how the whole Bible, from creation to new creation, points to one Messiah and one redemptive plan. His new book, Transformed by the Messiah, invites readers to rediscover the power of Scripture as one seamless narrative rather than two disconnected halves. In this episode, we trace how the Hebrew Scriptures set the stage for the Gospel: Joseph’s betrayal and restoration, the feasts that frame the Kingdom, and the prophetic rhythms that pulse beneath every New Testament page. Jason shows how the Messiah fulfills - not replaces - Israel’s story, inviting both Jew and Gentile into God’s covenant promises. We also talk about how this restored vision transforms how we live - rooted in God’s faithfulness, connected to His appointed times, and awakened to a Messiah who holds all of Scripture together. The goal isn’t to add something new but to recover what’s been there all along: the unity, beauty, and coherence of God’s Word from beginning to end. Key Takeaways The Bible tells one continuous story of redemption, not two separate Testaments. Transformed by the Messiah helps readers see how every part of Scripture points to Yeshua. The Old Testament provides the framework; the New Testament reveals the fulfillment. Joseph’s life foreshadows Messiah’s rejection, suffering, and ultimate reconciliation. The biblical feasts - especially Sukkot - reveal the shape of God’s Kingdom plan. Seeing Jesus through His Jewish context restores depth and meaning to our faith. Transformation in Messiah is holistic: spiritual, emotional, relational, and physical - reflecting God’s shalom. Chapter Markers 00:00—Welcome & Israel tour crossover 01:17—Rabbi Jason’s encounter and journey to Yeshua 08:02—Bridging Old and New without “strange fruit” 15:28—Transfiguration and Sukkot explained 20:02—Numbers, gematria, and the “vav” 27:31—Behind the scenes of The Chosen 32:50—Living Jewish after Oct 7 38:58—Simchat Torah and hostages timing 41:52—Sukkah vs. “roof” (Gog) insight 47:27—End-times drift and loving Israel’s Messiah 49:36—From information to formation: practices 54:15—Book release details & where to find it 57:52—Pre-order and why it matters 58:20—Shalom and close This episode invites you to read the whole Bible in high definition - seeing Yeshua where the story has always pointed. Explore more resources at The Jewish Road, dive deeper through Fusion Global at fusionglobal.org, and pre-order Rabbi Jason Sobel’s new book, Transformed by the Messiah, to experience how the Jewishness of Jesus brings Scripture - and your life - into full color.
When evil boasts, truth must bear witness. After a screening of October 7: Bearing Witness to the Massacre at Lexington’s historic Lyric Theater, we sat down with co-creator, Justin Kron, and Israeli believer, David Boskey, for an unfiltered Q&A. The conversation traces the long arc leading to October 7, why the online narrative flipped overnight, and how followers of Jesus should respond without naïveté or despair. We talk about the spiritual war beneath the politics, the cost of telling the truth, and the aching question of hostages still in captivity. We explore how trauma can open doors for real hope, and why any durable “peace plan” must deal with ideology and spiritual warfare, not just borders. Finally, we get practical: where to find reliable info, how to disciple the next generation against propaganda, and why churches must speak with clarity. We end with an invitation to pray, to gather, and to stand with Israel in a way that honors Messiah and blesses the nations. Key Takeaways October 7 exposed not just terror but a global information war; propaganda mobilized campuses within hours. Evil is real; Scripture frames this as a spiritual battle against what God blesses - including Israel’s ongoing existence. Trauma in Israel is ongoing; hostages and a long war have reshaped daily life. Durable peace must confront indoctrination, not merely redraw maps. The Church’s silence wounds; loving Israel is part of God’s mission to the nations. Disciple your people before the internet does; recommend reliable sources and films. Practical next steps: pray, learn, gather, and share this film widely. Chapter Markers 00:00 Welcome + why this night mattered (Lexington’s Lyric Theater) 03:35 “This time is different” - October 7 and global reactions 06:36 Processing trauma in Israel 14:34 “Definitive victory” and the ideology question 16:48 Bearing witness when terrorists film themselves 21:49 The spiritual war behind the headlines 26:17 Are we trending toward the last days? 31:32 What’s the soul of Israel right now? 32:41 How to help: prayer, discipleship, resources 39:09 Where to stream October 7 41:57 Sheep and goats, and the Church’s call Watch the October 7: Bearing Witness to the Massacre film and host a conversation in your community; explore resources at thejewishroad.com; consider joining us in Israel or becoming one of The Few who sustain this work.
We don’t know the problem we have: reading the Bible at the surface. English translations are trustworthy, but they flatten words that Hebrew infused with density, imagery, and connection. We end up missing layers of meaning that would transform how we live. In this conversation, we explore what happens when Hebrew cracks open the text. Familiar words you thought you understood suddenly leap off the page. Hope is sturdier, love is covenantal, fear is reframed, faith is embodied. The story of God’s promises comes alive in a way that makes you want to keep digging. This isn’t about becoming a scholar. It’s about recognizing that the Bible is one unified story and learning how the Hebrew underneath points us more deeply to the God who keeps His promises and to the Messiah who fulfills them. Key Takeaways We often assume we know what biblical words mean, but translation thins their meaning. Hebrew restores density, imagery, and connection across the Testaments. Reading with Hebrew awareness turns abstract concepts into embodied realities. Surface-level reading can keep us from seeing God’s covenant faithfulness. The Bible is one story, not two disconnected halves. Studying Hebrew words is a practical tool for deeper discipleship. This shift leads to sturdier hope, reoriented fear, covenantal love, and faithful living. Chapter Markers 00:00 — Why Hebrew Matters: Seeing the Problem 02:30 — The Good News Is Even Better 05:40 — How Words Get Flattened in Translation 07:31 — Discovering Hope in Its Original Depth 15:37 — Reframing Fear Through Hebrew Insight 24:03 — God’s Help and Presence in Hebrew 30:56 — Covenant Love That Won’t Let Go 34:38 — Faith That Becomes Faithfulness 44:46 — Practical Next Steps: How to Begin This episode invites you to move past surface-level Bible reading and see the unified story of God in full color. Explore more resources from thejewishroad.com, come with us to Israel, and consider joining The Few to stand with us in this work. Check out Melissa’s Hebrew Course for Beginners: Explore Hebrew
Galatians 3 has done a lot of heavy lifting in modern theology. Some say it proves everything is now “spiritual,” that Israel was folded into the church and the land promise dissolved. We open the text and ask: is that what Paul actually says? Paul’s concern is rescue, not replacement. He confronts the claim that Gentiles need the works of the law to belong. By returning to Abraham, he shows that righteousness has always been by faith and that the blessing promised to the nations reaches its center in the Messiah. That’s inclusion without erasure. We then trace what Galatians 3 does say - justification by faith, Gentile heirship with Abraham, the law as guardian, one body in Messiah - and what it never says: that the church is the new Israel or that Jewish identity and the land are cancelled. The result is a bigger table, not a different family. Key Takeaways Justification by faith predates Sinai; Abraham believed and was counted righteous. Gentiles are heirs with Abraham through the promised Seed, Messiah Jesus, without identity transfer to “Israel.” The law is a guardian, not a ladder; it cannot annul the earlier promise. “Neither Jew nor Greek” means equal standing, not uniform roles in redemptive history. Paul never says “the church is Israel.” Inclusion doesn’t require erasing Jewish calling. The three strands remain - people, place, purpose - brought to coherence in Messiah, not collapsed by Him. Romans 9–11 safeguards Israel’s ongoing calling, warning Gentiles against arrogance. Chapter Markers 00:00 Welcome & Series Setup: “Still Chosen” 03:00 Why Galatians? The Rescue Mission Context 08:30 Sons of Abraham by Faith (Gal 3:6–9) 14:30 Promise vs. Law; the Singular Seed (Gal 3:15–18) 21:00 Guardian to the Messiah; Faith as the Doorway (Gal 3:23–26) 24:00 “Neither Jew nor Greek”: Unity without Erasure (Gal 3:27–29) 31:00 What Paul Doesn’t Say: No Replacement of Israel 37:30 Analogies: The Expanded Table & Family Business 43:00 Land Promise and Acts 1:6—“Not yet,” not “never” 49:00 Lightning Round Q&A and Next Episode Tease Galatians 3 throws the doors wide to the nations through the Messiah without canceling God’s covenant with Israel. Equal standing at the Father’s table, distinct roles in His unfolding story. Explore more resources at The Jewish Road, consider coming to Israel with us, and if this ministry blesses you, join “The Few” and support the work.
The question of Israel’s chosenness isn’t abstract - it’s foundational. If God’s covenant with Abraham is conditional, then Israel’s future and even our own assurance in Christ are uncertain. But if it’s unconditional, then God’s faithfulness to Abraham secures hope for us all. In this episode, Ron and Matt Davis trace the Abrahamic covenant from Genesis 12, 15, and 17. They unpack the ancient covenant-cutting ceremony, the unconditional nature of God’s promise, and how the Mosaic covenant fits alongside it. They also show how the New Testament reaffirms - not erases - God’s oath to Abraham, and why that matters for both Jews and Gentiles today. With analogies of trust funds and house rules, they bring clarity to common misunderstandings. God’s covenant stands not because of human performance but because of His promise. And that means His faithfulness to Israel is the same faithfulness we depend on in Jesus. Key Takeaways God initiated and ratified the Abrahamic covenant alone - it’s unconditional. Genesis 12–17 reveals a promise of people, place, and purpose. The land boundaries are literal, not symbolic. Circumcision is the covenant sign, not its source. The Mosaic covenant governs life in the land but does not annul Abraham’s promise. The New Testament celebrates - not cancels - the Abrahamic covenant. God’s gifts and calling are irrevocable (Romans 11:29). Chapter Markers 00:00 – Welcome and framing the question 05:10 – Genesis 12: God’s call to Abram 13:20 – Genesis 15: Cutting the covenant 28:15 – Genesis 17: Everlasting covenant and circumcision 41:00 – Mosaic covenant vs. Abrahamic covenant 55:30 – Genesis 22: Binding of Isaac and covenant confirmed 1:05:10 – New Testament voices: Galatians, Romans, Hebrews 1:18:00 – Analogies: trust funds, house rules, and irrevocable promises 1:28:00 – Final reflections and what’s next God’s covenant with Abraham is unconditional, everlasting, and still active. It anchors Israel’s destiny and secures the hope of all who trust in the Messiah. Explore more resources from thejewishroad.com, join us on a future trip to Israel, or consider becoming one of The Few who support this work regularly.
For many Christians, the ground feels like it’s shifting under their feet. You grew up hearing “pray for the peace of Jerusalem,” then watched trusted voices say, “the church is the new Israel.” Add the noise of social feeds and the headlines of 2025, and it’s easy to wonder who to trust. In this new season, our theme is Still Chosen: Dispelling the Israel Delusion. Matt and Ron open the Scriptures and the conversation. They name three forces driving confusion today: cultural pressure, theological drift (especially replacement theology’s fresh packaging), and pastoral silence that leaves a vacuum filled by viral certainty. This isn’t politics dressed up as Bible talk. It’s a humble walk through the unified story of God, from Genesis to Romans, asking how His covenants anchor our hope. If God keeps His word to Israel, you can trust His word to you. And you don’t have to choose between compassion for Palestinians and faith in God’s covenant with the Jewish people. Compassion and covenant can, and must, go together. Key Takeaways Confusion rises from cultural pressure, theological drift, and church silence - not from the Bible’s lack of clarity. Replacement theology isn’t new; it’s old drift with new branding. Convincing does not equal correct. God’s promises to Abraham are called “everlasting” - that word matters. Romans 11 warns Gentile believers against arrogance; the hardening is partial and temporary. God isn’t finished with Israel. Compassion for all image-bearers and conviction about covenant are not enemies. The point is God’s character - He keeps covenant even when His people stumble. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Welcome & Season Vision: “Still Chosen” kickoff 02:23 – “The ground is moving”: why the confusion feels new 04:38 – Compassion without manipulation; critique vs. covenant 06:59 – Three drivers: cultural pressure, theological drift, church silence 09:11 – When silence is filled by viral certainty 11:38 – Wrestling with God: asking Jewish questions with open Bibles 13:57 – Romans 11 and humility; one story, two acts 16:19 – Promise vs. perfection: the “treehouse” covenant picture 18:40 – “Everlasting” actually means everlasting (Genesis & Psalms) 21:07 – How this shapes Bible reading, news reading, and seeing God 25:42 – Selah: honest questions to sit with 28:06 – Season roadmap: the big questions we’ll tackle 32:51 – The olive tree: shared life, not replacement; closing charge Want to stay rooted in the full story - from Genesis to Revelation? Explore more resources, teaching, and conversations at thejewishroad.com
What happens when a quiet Canadian pastor steps into the rising tide of global antisemitism? Chris Byberg isn’t looking to be a hero. He’s looking to be a friend. A friend to rabbis. A friend to Jewish neighbors. A friend who refuses to stay silent. In this gripping conversation, Chris shares his personal transformation - from growing up in a Jewish neighborhood to standing on the front lines of spiritual warfare in Parliament Hill. He talks about the fear that silences pastors, the indifference that numbs the Church, and the quiet strength of showing up, again and again, in the name of love. He reminds us that allyship isn’t found in hashtags. It’s forged in fire. In tears. In prayer. In the kind of bold friendship that lays down comfort for covenant. Key Takeaways Antisemitism is rising. Silence isn’t neutral - it’s deadly. The Church must act. Too many believers don’t know where to start. Chris offers a path. Friendship is the bridge. Real impact starts with real relationships. Prayer is protest. And protest, in God’s kingdom, looks like love. You don’t need all the answers. Just the courage to stand with the people God calls His own. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Who is Chris Byberg? 02:00 – Antisemitism in Canada post-Oct 7 05:00 – A pastor’s perspective: fear in the Church 07:15 – From Jewish neighbors to real friendship 09:30 – Why prayer isn’t passive 12:00 – How to engage during the High Holy Days 15:10 – “For me, I turn the other cheek. For you, I fight.” 18:45 – Call to the next generation 21:00 – A vision for revival through reconciliation Want to rediscover the Jewish roots of your faith? → Visit thejewishroad.com for resources, episodes, and tools to go deeper. → Learn more about Chris Byberg’s work and how you can stand with Israel at nhop.ca.
What does it mean to stand in the land of Israel with the heart of a father? In this episode, Messianic leader and pioneer Eitan Shishkoff shares his journey from the Jesus Movement in California to planting communities of faith in the Galilee. Through decades of ministry among Israeli Jews and returning immigrants, Eitan has carried a consistent call: to embody the spirit of Elijah by turning hearts, building bridges, and preparing the way for the Messiah. He shares the story behind Tents of Mercy, reflects on the struggles and beauty of Aliyah, and casts a vision for unity between Jewish and Arab believers within Israel. With humility and hope, Eitan calls the global Church to recognize its connection to Israel - not as charity, but as family. Key Takeaways Aliyah is Biblical and Now: Jewish return to the land isn’t political - it’s prophetic. From Revolution to Restoration: Eitan’s early years in the Jesus Movement sparked a lifelong mission rooted in Scripture and Spirit. Unity in Diversity: True reconciliation in Israel means standing with both Jewish and Arab believers, without compromise. The Spirit of Elijah: God is turning the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to the fathers - across generations and nations. Beyond the Headlines: The real story of Israel isn’t found in the news - it’s found in the hearts of those living out God’s promises daily. Chapter Markers - 00:00 – Intro + Who is Eitan Shishkoff? - 01:40 – From Jesus Movement to Israel - 05:20 – The early Messianic vision in the Land - 08:15 – Planting Tents of Mercy in the Galilee - 11:30 – Aliyah, integration, and spiritual shepherding - 14:00 – The challenge of unity between Jewish and Arab believers - 17:45 – God’s promises for His people today - 20:10 – The prophetic role of the Church in this season - 23:30 – Israel as family, not project - 26:00 – How to pray and stand with Israel now To discover the Jewish roots of your faith and learn how to stand with Israel: Visit thejewishroad.com for resources, podcast episodes, and teachings. Learn more about Eitan’s ministry at tentsofmercy.org and support the work happening in the Galilee today.
What’s it like to live on the frontlines of biblical prophecy and modern warfare? In this gripping conversation, we are joined by Dan Eshed, a third-generation Israeli and IDF soldier who shares firsthand what life is like just an hour from Gaza. From serving in Gaza and Lebanon to navigating the heartbreak of hostages, Dan reveals the deeply human and spiritual layers of Israel’s ongoing fight for survival. They discuss the challenges of distinguishing civilians from Hamas operatives, the global misunderstanding of Zionism, and the raw tension between justice, mercy, and truth. Dan’s insights are both sobering and hopeful as he describes how solidarity, biblical identity, and divine calling shape Israel’s unshakable resilience - even under fire. If you want to understand Israel beyond the headlines - from a biblical, historical, and personal lens - this episode will challenge and inspire you. Key Takeaways: Zionism isn’t political - it’s biblical. Dan unpacks what Zionism really means and how opposition to it often masks anti-Semitism. War on multiple fronts. Hear how Israel is balancing battles in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria while remaining a beacon of life and light. Tourism as mission. Dan shares why bringing believers to Israel is more than sightseeing - it’s spiritual transformation. Media bias and spiritual warfare. The battle Israel faces is not just physical but deeply spiritual, with truth often lost in global narratives. Chapter Markers: 00:00 – Intro + meeting Dan Eshed 01:14 – Why the pomegranate matters in Israel 03:05 – Life after the 12-Day War 06:00 – The October 7 attacks + national solidarity 10:15 – Can Israel ever have peace? 14:44 – Human rights, Hamas, and military orders 19:00 – IDF and the spiritual side of the war 23:00 – Anti-Zionism vs. anti-Semitism 27:00 – Dan’s family legacy & the birth of Immanuel Tours 31:54 – When will tourism return to Israel? 34:45 – Where to learn more + final reflections Visit thejewishroad.com to explore more. Learn about Dan’s work and plan your trip to Israel at immanuel-tours.com.
What if ministry looked like backpacks and diapers instead of pulpits and programs? In this conversation with Josh Roberts of Qashar Ministries, we explore the simple but powerful ways God is blessing the Jewish people in Israel through small, faithful acts of love. Josh shares the story of Qashar’s work in empowering Messianic believers on the ground in Israel - knitting ministries together, equipping them to serve, and doing it without fanfare or logos. From 10,000 backpacks to 650,000 diapers, these projects are tangible expressions of God’s love in the Holy Land in their time of need. This episode is an invitation for Christians everywhere to reconsider how we bless Israel - not with condemnation or politics, but with humility, partnership, and everyday acts of obedience that carry eternal weight. Key Takeaways The meaning of Qashar and its biblical roots in David and Jonathan’s friendship. Why empowering local Messianic believers is more effective than building big brands. How backpacks and diapers became vehicles for Kingdom impact. The challenge of indifference toward Israel in many churches. How pastors can move from ignorance or fear into partnership and invitation. The role of humility and co-learning in church–Israel relationships. Why blessing Israel is not optional, but a biblical calling for the church. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Welcome & banter 03:30 – Introducing Josh Roberts & Qashar Ministries 06:20 – What “Qashar” means: Knitting together the Body 09:10 – The challenge of indifference in the church 14:00 – Invitation, not condemnation 20:30 – From backpacks to diapers: meeting real needs 27:40 – Empowering small ministries, not building brands 33:40 – The diaper project: 649,000 delivered 46:00 – The story behind “MazelTots” diapers 50:00 – Looking ahead: future needs & partnerships 54:00 – Closing thoughts To explore the Jewish roots of your faith and stand with Israel: Visit thejewishroad.com for podcasts, teachings, and resources. Learn more about Josh's ministry and find discipleship tools at qasharministries.org.
What if you’ve been reading the Bible in black and white… when it was meant to be in technicolor? David Mack, founder of BLAC Ministries (Biblical Learning and Application Community), joins Matt and Ron to share how discovering the Jewishness of Jesus transformed his walk and his teaching. From a life-changing encounter with Arnold Fruchtenbaum to building global discipleship resources translated into Swahili, Urdu, and Spanish, David’s journey is rooted in reclaiming the full biblical story. They explore why Torah still matters, how modern churches often sideline Israel, and why a Star of David baseball cap stirred everything from conversations to controversy. With humility and passion, David calls the Church to return to its Jewish foundation - not just for theological accuracy, but for spiritual vitality. Key Takeaways The Bible in Full Color: The Jewish context of Scripture brings both Old and New Testaments into clearer focus. Torah for Today: While it doesn't save, Torah still guides life, ethics, and culture - even for Gentiles. Wearing Your Faith: David’s Star of David hat sparked conversations - and backlash - across cultural and denominational lines. Discipling Globally: With online tools and multi-language teaching, BLAC Ministries equips believers around the world. The Church and the Jewish People: Many churches resist engaging with Jewish roots, but David persists with grace and truth. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Meet David Mack 01:05 – A teacher who changed everything 03:30 – From CDs to global discipleship 05:00 – Teaching the full Bible to his granddaughter 06:30 – The Tanakh and Brit Hadashah together 08:10 – Baseball caps, Christmas trees & identity 10:50 – Wearing the Star: reactions from strangers 13:00 – What churches are missing without Torah 15:30 – Torah as a modern blueprint for life 21:00 – Cultural drift and biblical morality 23:00 – Reaching Jewish people from within 26:00 – Holidays, email teaching, and impact 28:00 – Redefining fruitfulness in Jewish ministry 30:00 – Tools and teaching from BLAC Ministries To dive deeper into the Jewish roots of your faith: Visit thejewishroad.com for podcasts, resources, and teachings. Explore David’s work at https://jaymack.net/, where you’ll find Torah studies, discipleship tools, and global teaching content.