Episode 106 - 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.
Episode 105 - Israel At The Epicenter (featuring Dennis Karp)
Dennis Karp shares his journey of moving from the United States to Israel and the challenges in the transition. He discusses the need for marriage and relationship counseling in Israel and the growing openness to the Messiah among the people. Dennis also talks about the spiritual climate in Israel and the work his ministry does with Holocaust survivors and young believers. He shares his perspective on sending children off to war and the anti-Israel and anti-Semitic sentiments in the media. The conversation covers various themes related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the impact on families, the role of the American church, and the importance of biblical knowledge and understanding.
Episode 104: The Bitter & The Sweet - Israel’s Memorial & Independence Days
In this episode of The Jewish Road Podcast, 'The Bitter & The Sweet,' we talk through the intense emotions surrounding Israel's back-to-back observances: Yom HaZikaron, a somber Memorial Day, and Yom Ha'Atzmaut, the vibrant celebration of Independence Day.
What we are seeing in the headliens these days encapsulate the ongoing story of Israel - a nation carved out of conflict and marked by continual struggle for existence against rising tides of global antisemitism.
Join us as we discuss how Israel's fierce spirit of independence is intertwined with the profound sacrifices made by its people. We'll explore why the existence of a Jewish state is not just a political necessity but a the only hope in a world where ancient enmities persist.
We also talk about how believers worldwide can support Israel in these trying times, emphasizing the church’s role in advocating for peace and justice. This discussion is not just about remembering the past - it's about actively shaping the future in anticipation of the Messiah's return.
Episode 103: Are Red Heifers In Israel A Sign We’re In The Last Days?
In this episode of the Jewish Road Podcast, Matt and Ron Davis discuss the topic of the red heifer, which is a question they frequently get asked. They explore the biblical significance of the red heifer and its connection to the purification rituals in the Old Testament. They also discuss the current interest in the red heifer and its potential role in the construction of the third temple in Jerusalem. While they acknowledge the importance of the red heifer in Jewish tradition, they caution against getting too caught up in the speculation surrounding its significance in end-time prophecy.
Episode 102: This World Is Not Our Home
In this episode of the Jewish Road Podcast, we discuss the current state of the world through a Messianic Jewish lens. We look at the idea that America, once a safe place for Jewish people, is now experiencing disarray and division. Drawing parallels to the story of Joseph in the Bible, we emphasize the importance of not getting too comfortable in the current world and longing for a greater homeland. We talk through the rise of anti-Semitism and the need for believers to live in the world but not be of the world.
Episode 101: The Jewish Road 101 - How To Know And Share The Gospel From The Old Testament
Imagine this: You're shipwrecked and find yourself on an island inhabited by Jewish people. Your New Testament is gone, sunk to the bottom of the ocean. All you have to share the story of the Messiah is the Old Testament. Could you share the Good News? Welcome to Episode 101 of The Jewish Road Podcast, where we dive into how to share the Good News of the Messiah using the Old Testament, or as it's known in Jewish tradition, the Tanakh.
Episode 100: A Deep Rooted Love For Israel with Joshua Aaron
In this episode, Matt and Ron Davis interview Joshua Aaron, a musician and believer in Yeshua. They discuss Joshua's background, his journey to Israel, and the impact of conflict on his family. They also explore the significance of his songs and their message of unity and love for Israel. He also talks about his approach to songwriting and the importance of interpreting the Bible accurately. The conversation touches on the appreciation for old Messianic worship and the idea of music coming full circle.
Episode 99: A New Way Of Looking At An Old Story - Why The Jewishness Of Jesus Matters
In this episode, we uncover the Jewishness of Jesus, a facet of His identity that is often overlooked yet fundamentally alters our understanding of Him. As the world faces turmoil, and Israel stands at the epicenter of global attention, recognizing Jesus as the Jewish Messiah offers a profound, unifying perspective. We explore the significance of Jesus' roots, from His teachings in the synagogues of Galilee to His celebrations of Passover, shedding light on how His Jewish identity enriches the faith of both Jews and non-Jews alike.
Episode 90: Why The Israel Story Isn’t Resonating With This Generation with David Hoffbrand
Continuing our dialogue with David Hoffbrand, Episode 90, titled "Why The Israel Story Isn't Resonating With This Generation," shifts the focus to the present and future of Israel's narrative.
We look into the complex reasons behind the growing disconnection between modern global Christians and Israel, including:
Exploring the reasons behind the church's indifference or even opposition to Israel.
Examining the impact of replacement theology and anti-Semitism.
Understanding the cultural shift in post-Christian England.
This candid conversation seeks to understand God's unwavering heart for Israel amidst a generation that often seems at best indifferent, and at worst, hostile. David's insight into the issue is profound, highlighting the critical need for dialogue and education on the historical and spiritual significance of Israel.
Episode 89: The Jewish Jesus - Reconnecting With The Truth About Jesus, Israel, & The Church with David Hoffbrand
The truth is, miss out on the fact that Jesus is Jewish and you’re missing out on Jesus. You could go to church every Sunday, read your Bible everyday, and even lead a Bible study, and unless you look at Jesus in His Jewish context, you're missing something.
In this episode of The Jewish Road podcast, we're joined by David Hoffbrand, author, church leader, and musician from Brighton, England, to discuss his thoughtful book, "The Jewish Jesus - Reconnecting With The Truth About Jesus, Israel, & The Church." It should provoke some thoughtful questions:
What does it mean for our Christian faith that Jesus was Jewish?
How can we truly bridge the Old and New Testaments?
What would it look like to know Jesus as His first disciples did?
Episode 54: Oy To The World
Hanukkah and Christmas for many American Jews can cause confusion about which holiday to celebrate and how. Hanukkah, specifically, has lost much of its original meaning, and the birth of the Messiah, Christmas, is no different.
Episode 53: If Only This Were In The Past
Now more than ever is a time to celebrate Hanukkah and hold onto the light of hope that it provides us. In 1932, Anti-Semitism was on the rise in Europe and many Jewish families could personally feel evil making its way towards them.
Despite what they saw out their window everyday, those with menorahs kept those lights alight and celebrated this historical holiday that not only brought light into their homes but brought a sense of strength and courage as well.
On this episode of the Jewish Road Podcast, we dive into why we should find reason to celebrate Hanukkah today in a time when Anti-Semitism seems more persistent than ever: to provide strength, promise, and hope for the future - even in dark times.
Episode 52: The Biblical Backstory Of Hanukkah
We travel back into the timeline of the Bible to uncover a fascinating connection between the stories of Antiochus Epiphanes IV and Jesus.
While Hanukkah is widely known as the Festival of Lights, and is enjoyed by millions around the world each year, many are unaware of its Biblical backstory.
Through this episode, we can better understand Hanukkah's significance, and also discover why it is so important to be ready for another tumultuous time in Jewish history.
Episode 51: Missing The Messiah
I saw a show the other day where a famous musician put on a costume and showed up at a karaoke bar. This person who normally sells out arenas was on stage in front of thirty people. She started singing one of her songs and the people loved it, except they didn't know it was her. They missed it - until the end of the show and the big reveal. Then it all made sense.
On this episode of the Jewish Road Podcast, we'll be talking about how the Jews of Jesus' day missed the Messiah and how we can avoid missing Him when He comes again.
Episode 50: Waiting As A Bride
In John 14, Jesus tells His disciples of the image of many rooms in His father’s house - He gives an invitation to come and take up residence. This is more than just a dry statement of faith. Jesus speaks in metaphor, using the concept of a marriage to illustrate the human relationship with God.
In first-century culture, men would often go away to prepare a ‘place’ for their bride - usually encountered for the first time at the wedding feast. In essence, Jesus both foretells and promises his return. He will come back for us like a groom coming for His bride.
In waiting and preparation, our role is uniquely transformational: we live not in static uncertainty but in proactive anticipation of The Day when the Messiah returns as promised with all eagerly awaiting joy!
As the world awaits this season to remember the birth of the Messiah in His first coming, let it also point us to His assured return. Waiting can be hard, especially in days like these. In this 50th episode of The Jewish Road Podcast, may you be encouraged and enlightened to gain a deeper understanding of an old passage made new. May this season be one where each of us draws closer to the Lord as we anticipate His coming again! Blessings in your journey as you wait upon Him like a Bride waiting her Groom!
Episode 49: Repairing The World This Thanksgiving
This Thanksgiving week, there is much to be grateful for. As Jews, we are familiar with the concept of "Tikkun Olam" - translated from Hebrew as “Repair The World” - to remind us that though brokenness abides in our world, we've been invited to partner with God to help repair it.
Far beyond humanitarian acts or green initiatives, we are called to bring a greater repair, one that brings salvation through the Messiah. We do not do this on our own: ultimately, it is only through Jesus that perfect order shall be restored in the world one day soon!
What an incredible gift to offer thanks for this Thanksgiving week!
Episode 48: Why Jewish People Do Not Believe In Jesus (A Short History On Anti-Semitism In The Church)
The barriers preventing many Jewish people from believing in Jesus are numerous and deeply entrenched. Unfortunately, much of this is due to the history between the Jewish people and the church throughout history. From the early church fathers to the Crusades, and extending from Martin Luther to the Holocaust, in the mind of the Jewish people, there is a history of how Christians have caused pain and suffering for Jewish people.
This podcast episode recounts a short history of Anti-Semitism for those unaware of how deep the roots go. We also give some initial steps Christians can take to overcome these barriers and extend an olive branch to our Jewish brothers and sisters.
Episode 47: A Conversation About Jewish Holidays (with Rich Ferreira)
On this episode of the Jewish Road Podcast, we sit down with our friend, Rich Ferreira, from GTI Tours on his podcast. We talked about everything from an overview of the Jewish holidays that take place in the Fall as well as our upcoming trip to Israel.
Episode 46: When Jesus Shows Up To The Feast
It seems as though Jesus keeps showing up at the right time unless you're part of the crowd trying to keep the same old traditions unchanged. He shows up and brings a whole new meaning to an ancient feast.
The Feast of Booths, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles, is one of the most important holidays in the Jewish calendar. It is a pilgrimage feast when Jews worldwide celebrate the harvest and give thanks for the earth's bounty.
Episode 45: The Guilty One Is Set Free (Yom Kippur)
In this episode of the Jewish Road podcast, we take a look at the Jewish High Holy Day of Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement.
This holiday has roots in both the Old and New Testaments, and its implications are still relevant to how we live today.