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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Can a Gentile be saved? Overwhelmingly throughout the Biblical narrative up until this point, the story has been primarily Jewish. Even from the beginning, the Israelites were called to be a light to the nations (Genesis 12:1-3). The early church was made up of Jewish believers, but what about Gentiles? Can they be saved?

This was the question that surfaced in Acts 10 when Jewish Peter meet a Gentile Roman named Cornelius. He was a God-fearing man who gave alms and prayed regularly. He even had a vision from God telling him to send for Peter (Acts 10:1-8). So he did and when Peter arrived, Cornelius fell at his feet worshiping him (Acts 10:25). Obviously, this was not the reaction that Peter was expecting, but he saw that God was at work.

So what about today? The tables have turned. The question today is no longer, "Can a Gentile be saved?" but rather, "Can a Jew be saved?" While the answer to both questions is, "Yes!" and we know God desires for all people to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9), there is still a lot of confusion today. Join us on this episode of The Jewish Road Podcast as we discuss all of these issues and more!

When we look at Pentecost and Acts 2 we marvel and are amazed at the 3,000 who receive the Holy Spirit. We go to the next chapter and forget it's still Pentecost. Just six hours later, Peter and John are going up to the temple and a man who has been lame from birth is healed and the crowds are even more amazed.

Peter says, "Men of Israel, why do you wonder at this, or why do you stare at us, as though by our own power or piety we have made him walk?" Why do you marvel? This is the promised day that was spoken of by the prophet Joel. And in case you're still doubting, not only does Peter quote Joel, he applies it to what's happening right then and there. This is what was promised! The result? 5,000 were added that day.

The early church was filled with people who were steeped in Jewish culture, thought, and tradition. They were men of Israel who worshiped the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. And the message they preached was that Jesus is the fulfillment of all that was promised in the Hebrew Scriptures. If you want to understand the early church, you need to understand its Jewish roots.

Join us on this episode of the Jewish Road podcast as we look into the events of the afternoon of the Pentecost and how they were a fulfillment of what was spoken by the prophet Joel from Act one, being brought to life in real time.