A Jew and a Gentile Discuss

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra clarify some of the complexities of a ceasefire agreement and why Israel hasn’t agreed thus far. They challenge listeners to read multiple news sources to get the whole picture because a single source gives only a single perspective. They also offer some concrete ways to pray for Israel. Here’s some of what they cover in this discussion:   The fickle nature of the news cycle that has moved on from the Israel war, but Israel and the Middle East are still very much in the thick of it Misleading headlines that don’t indicate the complexities of the war and what Israel is dealing with The difference between a ceasefire and a truce What’s breaking down in the recent ceasefire talks with Hamas Four specific things to pray regarding this war   Along the Way Along the way, you’ll hear about: The root of anti-Semitism Wait, what? Israel and Hamas were actually already in a ceasefire on October 7? The humanitarian crisis in Gaza before October 7 – where did all that aid go? How the tragic plight of the Gazans and the fight against the terrorist regime Hamas are separate issues in this very complex war Who this war is not against How both societies – Israel and Gaza – are traumatized right now, and both deserve our compassion and prayers The abundant opportunities for the Gospel in both Israel and Gaza right now   Words You Might Learn (or learn more about) in This Episode Hezbollah, Yeshua, truce, ceasefire, Isa   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Psalm 89:14 James 4:12 Genesis 17:8 Isaiah 11:10–12, Ezekiel 11:16–20 Genesis 12:3   Previous Episodes Mentioned S1 E8 – Anti-Semitism Exposed S4.5 E6 – Practical Ways to Combat Anti-Semitism S1 E14 – Israel: A Little Word Loaded with Meaning S1 E15 – Israel: Promised Land and Political State     Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You Israeli News Sources: Jerusalem Post, www.jpost.com Times of Israel, www.timesofisrael.com All Israel News,   Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

Anti-Semitic incidents have dramatically increased since Hamas violently attacked Israel on October 7. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk about some ways to combat anti-Semitism that you may not immediately think of. They discuss the origins of anti-Semitism and how, at its root, lies a spiritual matter. They also discuss:   Anti-Semitism isn’t new. Anti-Semitic spirits revealed in the Bible from Pharaoh to Haman and all the way to today’s terror group, Hamas Who the biblical kingdom of Persia is today What we can do about anti-Semitism How to explain your faith and desire for your Jewish friend to know Jesus     Along the Way Along the way, they’ll also discuss things like: The Holocaust started as an idea that turned into propaganda The organized Church’s persecution of Jewish people throughout history – whether or not those people were truly followers of Jesus – has left the Jewish people with a lot to overcome about Jesus The fear of “Jewish fragility” Where “blessing Israel” and “Christian Zionism” often fall short Understanding that talking to Jewish people about Jesus is not anti-Semitic Being careful of your language when sharing the Gospel with Jewish people. They’re not converting to another religion; they’re following the Jewish Messiah sent to the house of Israel as promised by the Hebrew Scriptures The importance of learning to recognize subtle forms of Replacement Theology. Jewish people do not have a separate way to God apart from faith in Yeshua (Jesus)   Words You Might Learn in This Episode Proto Evangelion, besora, Persia, replacement theology   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Genesis 3:14 Genesis 3:15 Isaiah 25:8, 1 Peter 3:18–20 2 Timothy 1:10, 1 Corinthians 15:54–57 Revelation 20:10 Matthew 23:37 Book of Exodus Book of Esther Daniel chapter 10 Isaiah 6:9, Isaiah 42:20, Romans 11:25, Matthew 13:13–15 Romans chapters 9–11 Acts 4:12 2 Corinthians 1:20 Matthew 5:44 Exodus 34:14 Isaiah 63:3, 1 Corinthians 15:24–26 Deuteronomy 4:24, 32:16, Jeremiah 31:3, Romans 11:11   Previous Episodes Mentioned S4.5 E1               What’s Going On In Israel? S4.5 E2               Israel: 111 Days and Counting S1 E36                 Problems with the Church Replacing Israel S1 E37                 Does the Bible Say the Church Is the New Israel? S3 E7                   Why Christians Want Jews to Convert   Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You   Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback:

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra continue their conversation about the End Times and where Israel fits in regarding Bible prophecy. They dive into the Christian and Jewish mindsets toward the Last Days and challenge listeners to rethink a “for-Christians-only” understanding. The discussion turns to the difficult things Israel experienced on October 7, how these events may have caused some listeners to disengage with God and the importance of finding your way back to re-engaging with Him. They talk about:   What’s meant by the End Times and what Christians think of when they hear it How the End Times isn’t just a Christian thing but first appears in the Hebrew Scriptures Hard things to come in the End Times The Christian response to Israel’s suffering The mixed reality of both grief and hopeful anticipation contained in the package of the End Times   Along the Way Along the way, Carly and Ezra also discuss: The challenge to make room in our hearts for what Jesus feels about Israel What most Christians think of when they think of the period approaching the End Times The birth pangs, “beginning of sorrows,” that Jesus talked about regarding the Last Days Jesus’s love in preparing His followers for the future A challenge to Jewish people who think the idea of the End Times is only a Christian concept to look again at the Hebrew Scriptures, at Moses and the prophets How the atrocities of October 7 can cause confusion, sideline our faith and make us disengage with God, and the encouragement to check back in and re-engage with the Lord   Words You Might Learn in This Episode Sukkot, pestilence, Mashiach, acharit hayamim, sof, Torah, Christian Zionism, Yeshua, Baruch haba Bashem Adonai   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Matthew chapters 24 and 25 Matthew 24:4–8 Matthew 24:8 (and 1 Thessalonians 5:3) John 14:3 Joel 2:11 Revelation 19:15 Genesis 49:1, Deuteronomy 31:29 Psalm 147:2, Isaiah 11:12 Zechariah 13:8, 14:1–3 Matthew 23:37 Matthew 23:39, Psalm 118:26 Isaiah chapters 12–14 Luke 20:9–17, Zechariah 10:4 Isaiah chapter 53   Previous Episodes Mentioned S4.5 E5               The End Times: Is It a Jewish or Christian Thing?   Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

Hamas’ October 7 massacre in Israel and the war since sparked questions about the End Times. Many people have written in, asking, “Is this the End?” or “Is this the Tribulation?” Before getting into that in our next episode, today, Carly and Ezra lay the groundwork by discussing where the concept of the End Times comes from. Did Jesus introduce it, or is it actually a Jewish thing? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, the conversation includes: What it was about October 7th that pushed the End Times button for us Wait, the End Times is mentioned in Genesis? The Song of Moses and if it has a place in Jewish tradition Why Christians don’t talk much about the Song of Moses Along the Way You’ll also hear about: Jewish thought about the Tribulation Where Christians can misstep regarding the End Times The Hebrew phrase vital to understanding certain Old Testament Scriptures A part of the Torah that’s completely overlooked in the Jewish community Two things we need to do if we want to be students of the Word on this subject If Gentile Believers are grafted into the promises of God for Israel, are they also grafted into Israel’s difficulties? The importance of Christians being prepared to engage with Jewish people who are confused about the difficulties they, as a people, will face and the hopeful message of the Bible Words You Might Learn in This Episode Am Israel, Yeshua, acharit hayamim, yom, yamim, the Song of Moses, Torah, Sukkot, Yom Kippur Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Zechariah 12:3 and 14:2–4 Matthew chapter 24, specifically verses 40–41, 20, 32–33 and 6–8 Jeremiah 29:11 Genesis chapter 49 Deuteronomy 4:27–30 and 31:29 Romans chapter 11, highlighting 11:17–24 Psalm 30:5 and Deuteronomy 7:9 Deuteronomy chapter 32 Previous Episodes Mentioned S4 E8                  Rinse and Repeat – An Annual Jewish Bible Reading Cycle S4.5 E2               Grafted In S4.5 E3               Israel: 111 Days and Counting   Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra discuss the profound metaphors and analogies of Romans chapter 11 and what this has to do with how Christians relate to Jewish people and respond to the crisis in Israel. They cover: What it means biblically to be “grafted in” Making Israel jealous for their God Reviewing the difference between Israel the Land, the State and the people Ezra’s take on the “one new man” of Ephesians 2 How the “one new man” relates to “grafted in” How “grafted in” evokes jealousy in Israel Why all of this is so important and matters to the life and faith of Christians Along the Way Along the way, they’ll also discuss: The importance of not skipping from Romans chapter 8 to chapter 12 What’s the “therefore” there for? Compassion for Israel and for Palestinians Who the “natural” and “unnatural” branches of Romans 11 are The grafted-in design is more than a clever mashup of religious symbols What the “fatness of the olive tree” is What it means to carry your faith, Gentile Believers, in a way that makes Israel jealous The startling reality of what the crisis in Israel has to do with you as a Christian Ask the Lord to give you His heart for His Chosen People The game-changer conversation Christians can have with Jewish people Words You Might Learn More About in This Episode Magan David, Ibri, Jewish/Jew, Jewish Scriptures, Haaretz, Am Yisrael, tikkun, chutzpah Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Romans chapter 11 (the entire chapter and specifically, Romans 11:17, 20, 25, 20, 33) Romans chapters 5–8 Romans 12:1 Matthew 4:19 Matthew 15:24 Genesis 12:3 Genesis 15:6 (and Romans 4:3, Galatians 3:6, and James 2:23) Genesis 12:10–20 and Genesis chapter 20 Leviticus 17:11 and Hebrews 9:22 Romans 12:3 and Ephesians 2:8–9 Genesis 17:19–21 and Galatians 4:22–31 Genesis 25:6 and Romans 9:10–13 Genesis chapter 27 Isaiah 6:9–10 and 43:8, Isaiah 42:6 and 49:6 Exodus 20:4, 34:14 and Deuteronomy 6:15 Exodus 20:5, 34:14, Deuteronomy 6:15, 32:21 Romans 1:16 John 3:16 Acts chapter 14 Ephesians 2:11–22 Romans 9:5–6 and 3:23 Ephesians 5:31–32 John 14:3 Matthew chapter 24, specifically verse 36 Previous Episodes Mentioned S4 E3    Does the Bible Tell Us to Make Christians or Jews Jealous? Thanks for listening! Other Resources for You Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra are back in the studio for a conversation about the ongoing crisis in Israel in the aftermath of Hamas’ brutal attack on October 7, 2023, including Unraveling some of the complexities of the situation Wrestling over standing with Israel but not liking everything it’s doing How Hamas’ actions on October 7 have become overshadowed and absorbed into larger, more palatable causes If Israel is supplying aid to Gaza An analogy that brings some perspective What it means and doesn’t mean to stand with Israel How to respond to strong rhetoric against supporting Israel Coping with the emotion and burden of all the suffering taking place Along the Way Along the way, you’ll also hear about A “false choice” that society pressures us to make and the challenge to reject it A refresher on Hamas’ reason for existing What Islamic terrorist groups around the world have in common The different focus in military actions between Hamas and Israel The worst thing you can do when advocating for a cause The biblical origins of the Israeli vs. Arab conflict Who Israel’s enemies are God’s love for the Arab world How Gazans become political pawns of surrounding Arab nations Good things that can come from the pain of October 7 and war Words You Might Learn in This Episode IDF, Hamas, Hezbollah, Jihadists, neutralizing, Palestinian Authority, Ishmael, “The Great Satan,” “The Little Satan” Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Zechariah 2:8, Isaiah 19:23–25, Amos 9:15, Genesis 17:18–21, Genesis 16:12, Isaiah 66:8, Romans 11, Deuteronomy 4:24, Deuteronomy 32:16, Joel 2:18 Previous Episodes Mentioned Special Update: War in Israel Thanks for listening! Resources Mentioned Prayer Points for Israel Intercessory Prayer Guide for Israel – general Help Israelis: jewishvoice.org/Israel-crisis. One hundred percent of your donation will go to ministries in Israel caring for the displaced and traumatized, as well as soldier needs. Other Resources for You Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

In this special off-season episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra bring clarity to the tragic events of the last two weeks in Israel and Gaza. They discuss many questions people are asking about what’s going on, where this sudden attack came from, who Hamas and other players are, Israel’s response, and the needs in Israel right now. It’s been about two weeks since more than 1,000 terrorists invaded Israel and committed horrific murders and assaults on innocent Israelis and others in the south of Israel, plus taking some 200 hostages into Gaza. Rockets from Hamas in Gaza are still flying toward Israel, and Israel is responding with powerful air strikes to eliminate further threats from Hamas. Carly and Ezra discuss: What led up to the events of October 7 Whether Israel did something to provoke the attack on October 7 Why people in Israel are calling this the Simchat Torah War, and if Hamas knew their attack was on a Jewish holiday The players involved in all of this, who’s joining in the conflict and who’s latching on to it Hamas’ stated purpose as an organization and how it affects this war The “Israel had this coming” response some are having What the Bible says about all that’s going on Is this World War III? Is it the beginning of the End Times? How this is a wake-up call for Christians What we’re hearing from our friends and ministry connections there in Israel The needs the people in Israel are facing and how we can help Along the Way Along the way, you’ll also learn about: The key element of radical Islamic terrorism in this conflict and the importance of not vilifying all Palestinians, Arabs, Gazans The spiritual war underlying all of this How a lot of Christians are being forced to examine what it really means to “stand with Israel” Why Israel’s response is not a quid pro quo Why Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu had to say, “Hamas is done” The call for Christians to take the issue of Israel and the Jewish people out of the “deal with it later” box Great opportunities for the Gospel in Israel right now Words You Might Learn in This Episode Shabbat, Hamas, Hezbollah, jihad, Mahmoud Abbas, IDF Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Zechariah chapters 12–14 (specifically Zechariah 12:2–3, 12:10, 13:8, 14:2–9), Ezekiel 36:19, Ezekiel 37:21, Matthew 23:37–39, Romans 11:17–24, Matthew chapter 24 Resources Mentioned IDF webpage: https://www.idf.il/en/mini-sites/hamas-israel-war-articles-videos-and-more/ Find more information and videos from the IDF on their Instagram and Facebook pages Help Israelis: jewishvoice.org/Israel-crisis. One hundred percent of your donation will go to ministries in Israel caring for the displaced and traumatized, as well as soldier needs. Thanks for listening! This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk with Tara-Leigh Cobble, host of The Bible Recap podcast. Tara-Leigh is a real kindred spirit with her love for God’s Word, for Israel and the Jewish people and helping Christians understand the Jewish roots of their faith in Jesus.   Join them for a fun conversation about the way we discovered Tara-Leigh that can only be by God’s hand what Tara-Leigh does and how she turned from someone who had no interest in going to Israel into a leader of twice-a-year teaching tours misconceptions people have about Israel before going, the interesting and pleasant surprises some of them encounter once there how Tara-Leigh observes the Sabbath and how visiting Israel has changed her Bible reading   Along the Way Along the way, you’ll also hear about an interesting comfort that concerned tourists don’t often think about when traveling to Israel a curious story about a driver, baby car seats and an eye-opening encounter with cultural differences the unexplainable peace one feels in Israel building relationships with Jewish people something known as “the Shabbat elevator” how the Israel landscape isn’t as brown as you might think it is and a fantastic way of sharing your faith with international Uber drivers   Words You Might Learn in This Episode IDF (Israel Defense Forces), Yerushalayim   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Isaiah 53, Haggai 2:9, Matthew 21:18–21, John 9:1–6, Exodus 35:3, John 4:4–26   Previous Episodes Mentioned S1 E8     Sabbath: To Keep It or Not – That is the Question S4 E9     Sabbath as a Cultural Revolution   Find Tara-Leigh The Bible Recap: www.thebiblerecap.com/start Tara-Leigh Cobble: www.taraleighcobble.com/books Israelux Tours: www.israelux.com D-Group: mydgroup.org/join     Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You   Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk about how practicing a Sabbath rest each week is so counter-intuitive in our productivity-driven culture. They share some of their own challenges and practices and provide you with some interesting thoughts to ponder when considering embracing a weekly day of rest for yourself. No shame, no guilt – just some fascinating and inspiring conversation, including:   The Bible’s first mention of a Sabbath rest The Jewish concept of the day beginning at sunset The greeting, “Shabbat Shalom” How you actually “cease” on the Sabbath Preparation, pre-decisions and purpose Reflecting and rejoicing on the Sabbath Feeling free to start small, if you’re new to practicing a weekly Sabbath rest   Along the Way Along the way, you’ll also hear about: The first thing God called holy The Jewish concept of holiness How the Industrial Revolution affected our work life Do we start work from a place of rest, or work-work-work to earn rest? The Sabbath is a gift from God Two things Jewish people are to remember on the Sabbath What “building a palace of time” means The spirit behind one particular Sabbath “don’t” listed in the Bible and what we can take away from it to shape our own Sabbath days Some great questions and a lens to look through when considering what your own Sabbath might look like The idea of taking a weekly digital Sabbath (Gasp!) Jewish obligation, Christian invitation, and a gift to all   Words You Might Learn in This Episode Bereshit, m’kadesh, kadosh, Shabbat, shevet, Shabbat Shalom, Sukkot   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Genesis 1, Genesis 2:2–3, Psalm 133:1, Exodus 20:9, Deuteronomy 5:12–15, John 19:14 and 42, Exodus 16:4–5, Exodus 30:8–11, Exodus 35:1–3, Matthew 11:30   Previous Episodes and Resources Mentioned S1 E8 – Sabbath: To Keep It or Not – That is the Question S1 E25 – Let’s Call It “Ezra’s Story” The Sabbath, book by Abraham Joshua Heschel Embracing Rhythms of Work and Rest, book by Ruth Haley Barton The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, book by John Mark Comer     Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You   Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk about the Jewish custom of reading through the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, each year, using a universal reading plan. Carly shares a bit about her background growing up Catholic, and they touch on how the “high church’s” Book of Common Prayer sprang from a Jewish concept begun during ancient Israel’s captivity in Babylon. They discuss how the plan works along with The meaning of the Hebrew word “parasha” that describes a single reading When the reading cycle starts, when to read and different ways to approach it If Jewish people read any other Scriptures along with the Torah portion and if Jewish Believers in Jesus add New Testament Scriptures Why the repetition? If this is a good reading plan for Christians   Along the Way Along the way, you’ll also learn about four important questions all of us ask when it comes to Bible reading and relating to God The Jewish holiday that celebrates the Torah The Torah scroll and the interesting way it’s honored in synagogue services The Hebrew name for New Testament The sense of unity you get when you realize that people all over the world are reading the same section of Scripture at the same time as you are three important reasons to read the Bible again and again Why Christians reading the Old Testament is an integral part of their walk with God   Words You Might Learn in This Episode Tanach, Torah, parasha, parashot, Simchat Torah, Sukkot, Mashiach, Yohanan the Immerser, Yeshua, Brit Chadashah, matzah   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Genesis 1:1, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 52:13–53:12, Jeremiah 31:31–33, Malachi 4:5–6, Matthew 3:1–3, John 1:29–36, Genesis 15:7–21, Genesis 17:1–14, Hebrews 9:11–15, Exodus 12:24–27, Hebrews 4:12, Genesis 9:8–17, Romans 11:13–25, Matthew 15:24, Acts 2:21, 2 Corinthians 3:12–16   Previous Episodes Mentioned S1 E47   The Difference Between Jewish and Christian Worship S2 E9    Hoo-pah – Demystifying the Jewish Wedding Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You Parasha Reading Schedule: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/parsha Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

Who knew that the book of Jonah is connected to the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement? Probably not anyone who isn’t Jewish, right? Well, it is, and it’s what Carly and Ezra talk about in this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. They share the Jewish context in which Jonah was called to preach repentance to Nineveh, a cruel and wicked nation, the consequences of Jonah’s disobedience and how God ultimately restored Jonah and redeemed Nineveh.   Along the Way Along the way, you’ll hear: How Jonah’s calling was so far out of his worldview that he refused What gave Jonah authority and credibility in the message he eventually spoke to Nineveh Applications for our Jewish and Christian audiences Advice for Christians wanting to share about the Messiah with Jewish people The irony of Jonah’s prayer for mercy as he sat in the belly of the big fish What Jonah needed in preparation for his ministry What Jonah and Peter have in common A challenge regarding some Christian worldviews about the Jewish people A powerful personal application as we relate to others in today’s divisive world   Words You Might Learn in This Episode Synagogue, Shabbat school, Yeshua, Yom Kippur, High Holy Days, Fall Feasts, the Messiah/the Christ, Ruach   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Matthew 12:38–42, John 6:68, Matthew 16:13–16, Acts 2:22, Matthew 16:21–27, Matthew 26:31–35, Acts chapter 10, Romans 11:25–27, Exodus 33:19/Romans 9:15, Ephesians 2:13, Zechariah 14:8–9, Romans 8:28, Matthew 15:24, Romans 11:11–14   Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You   Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

We live in a fast-food culture where we want things yesterday. We get frustrated when we have to wait on things out of our control. So, what does it really mean to “wait on God”?  For most of us, waiting seems like idleness or passivity. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Ezra and Carly dive into the Hebrew word used in verses about “waiting on the Lord” to reveal it’s not a passive thing. No, indeed. The Hebrew word reveals some pretty rich insights about how waiting on God is active and participatory on our part. They also discuss   Why the Bible connects waiting on God to gaining strength Some of Ezra’s personal waiting stories and what he learned from them What this active participation of “waiting” actually looks like in everyday life   Along the Way Along the way, you’ll hear them talk about How Carly thought of waiting when she was a brand-new Believer The value in digging into the Hebrew or Greek meaning of Bible words How waiting on the Lord involves “knitting ourselves together with His character” rather than idly passing the time till He does what we hope He will Circumstances can’t be our anchor in life Why God sometimes seems slow to answer Questions to ask during your wait A huge thing we have to watch out for while we’re waiting Encouragements and takeaways for your own waiting   Words You Might Learn in This Episode Qaveh, Yeshua   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Psalm 27:14, Isaiah 40:31 NKJV, Psalm 130, Romans 3:23, Hosea 6:6, 2 Peter 3:8–9, Hebrews 12:15, Zechariah 14:8–9, Acts 1:9–11, Matthew 23:39   Previous Episodes Mentioned S1 E25 – Let’s Call It “Ezra’s Story”   Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You   Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

You may have heard that 2023 is Israel’s 75th anniversary, but do you know exactly what that’s referring to? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra explore this topic, filling in gaps you may have about when and how Israel became a nation again, how the Arab world views Israel’s existence and a startling shift in the United Nations’ (U.N.’s) attitude toward Israel in the last 75 years. They discuss: What led to Israel’s independence Why the date changes on the calendar from year to year The State of Israel as a fulfillment of the prophecy found in Isaiah 66:7–8 Anti-Semitism – is it really real or just an exaggeration? Nakba Day – what it is, what it means and why it’s a shocking sign of the times Two reasons why this is important to all Believers in Jesus What you can do to make a difference for Israel – two simple things Along the Way Along the way, you’ll hear Ezra and Carly talk about other things like: The surprising size of Israel’s Arab-citizen population Where the word Palestine came from “Drunk with rage?” – what does that mean, and rage against who? What government won’t even say the name of Israel As a Christian, your destiny is inextricably connected to what’s happening to the Jewish people Arm yourself with information. Be informed. Be a voice. Words You Might Learn in This Episode Yom HaAtzmaut, Iyar, the British Mandate on Palestine, Palestina, Yeshua, Nakba, U.N. Partition on Palestine Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Isaiah 66:7–8, Zechariah 14:1–2, Zechariah 12:2–3, Deuteronomy 4:23–25, Exodus 34:14 Thanks for listening! Other Resources for You Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra address a listener question, asking, “Are Messianic Jews obligated to obey Jewish tradition established by the rabbis after the Bible was written?” Before they get to the answer, they clarify terms by comparing rabbinic Judaism and biblical Judaism. They also talk about: Some key reasons why Judaism tends to lean heavily on rabbis to interpret the Scriptures The differences and similarities between Jewish and Christian ways of seeking advice and understanding Scripture The good things and the challenges of rabbinic Judaism     Along the Way Along the way, they discuss: When rabbinic interpretation first became so important in Judaism The “fence” around the Law that the rabbis established and why Examples of biblical laws that have transformed into much stricter Jewish tradition The origins of the Orthodox Jewish tradition of men wearing big fur hats and long black coats A surprising Jewish prayer traditionally prayed at Yom Kippur and the unfortunate reasons it came to be An underlying question about whether or not Jewish Believers have an obligation to “stay Jewish” The bottom line for Gentile and Jewish Believers in Jesus and who the ultimate rabbi really is     Words You Might Learn in This Episode The Lost Tribes of Israel, made aliyah, Yeshu, ecclesia (or ekklesia), and rabbi.   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Jeremiah 25:8–11, Exodus 19:10–12, Exodus 23:19, John 12:32, Matthew 1:21, Luke 1:68, Romans 3:1, Romans 9:4–5, Deuteronomy 7:7, Deuteronomy 9:5–6, Isaiah 43:10, Matthew 19:37–40, Deuteronomy 6:4–5, Leviticus 19:18, Leviticus 24:19–22, Matthew 5:38–39, Romans 11:29, Acts 4:12, Romans 10:30, John 3:16, Hebrews 4:12, Acts 17:11, Deuteronomy 4:2, Matthew 5:17.   Previous Episodes Referenced S1 E8                  Indigenous Jewish Ministry, with Troy Wallace S1 E27                Lost Tribes: Reality or Wishful Thinking? S3 E4                  But He Doesn’t Look Jewish S1 E40                Staying Jewish: Love and Marriage with Joshua and Monique Brumbach S4 E2                   Why Christians Should Care About Messianic Judaism   For more about the rabbi who wrote a note naming Jesus as the Messiah, you might enjoy this Jewish Voice Ministries TV episode: The Mysterious Revelation of the Messiah.               Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You   Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback:

In Romans 11, Paul writes that salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel jealous. He says that he hopes his ministry to the Gentiles arouses jealousy, or as the King James Version says, “provokes” his own Jewish people to jealousy. OK, so we just answered the question in the title of this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, but you’ll want to tune in because Carly and Ezra get into the why and how of this unusual – and sometimes uncomfortable – purpose in Gentile Believers’ lives. They discuss: The context of these verses The provocative word “provoke” What it means to provoke to jealousy vs. just provoking Defining jealousy and contrasting it with envy and resentment Three how-to suggestions for Believers who want to kindle jealousy for God in their Jewish friends Carly asks Ezra if he was ever “provoked to jealousy” toward God by Christians before he came to believe in Jesus and if he now prompts jealousy in other Jewish people. Along the Way Along the way, Carly and Ezra talk about: Three pesky chapters in Romans that many Christians don’t know what to do with The politically correct thing to do vs. the biblical, loving thing to do Are Christians just pawns for God to get Israel to believe? How do we arouse jealousy in Jewish people without being perceived as anti-Semitic? Answering the bold question: What right does God have to use Christians to provoke Israel to jealousy?” through a biblical understanding of the Jewish people How God has a fire of longing burning within Him for Israel What provoking a Jewish person does not mean Words You Might Learn in This Episode Am Israel, the Church, Gentile, ecclesia, Replacement Theology, Yeshua, salvation Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Romans 11:11–14, Romans chapters 9–11, John 3:16, Deuteronomy 32:21, Romans 1:16, John 10:10, Matthew 15:24 Previous Episodes Mentioned S1 E36                Problems with the Church Replacing Israel S1 E37                Does the Bible Say the Church is the New Israel? S1 E48                Who’s More Important – Jews or Gentiles? Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

Why should Christians care that Messianic Judaism exists in the world? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra analyze three reasons why a Messianic Jewish expression of faith in Jesus is important and why Gentile Believers should appreciate it. They also discuss whether or not this means Christians should go all in and attend a Messianic congregation and about how there are many thousands of people with Jewish heritage that attend Christian churches.   Along the Way Along the way, you’ll also hear: How the Jewish people are a testimony to the existence, power and faithfulness of God The curious phrase “the Chosen People” and the Jewish and non—Jewish questions it evokes Why it’s important that Christians not skip or skim over Romans 9–11, even though you might be more drawn to chapters before and after How, while, for Jewish people, it is a foreign idea to believe in Jesus as Jewish and the Messiah, it may be equally odd for Gentile Believers to see themselves as those who believe in the God of Abraham – but are either of these correct views? The most foundational historical mandate of the Jewish people Jesus is not “the God of the Christians” who showed up to begin a new religious system, and how the Church unknowingly perpetuates this misbelief with the language it uses to describe faith in Jesus A challenge to Christians: What message are you holding out to Jewish people? Is it “conversion” to your religion, or is it “the God of Israel brought me near to Himself through your Jewish Messiah, Jesus”? What Paul means by “provoking” the Jewish people to jealousy The invitation for Gentile Believers to worship in Messianic Jewish congregations and some questions to ask yourself if you feel drawn to them   Words You Might Learn in This Episode Ecclesia (or ekklesia)   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode John 3:16, Matthew 15:24, Jeremiah 35̶ -36, Romans 11:23, Isaiah 43:8–12, Romans 8: 31–39, Romans 8–11, Genesis 15:6/Romans 4:3/Galatians 3:6, Romans 6:4, Zechariah 14:8–9, Romans 11:28, Romans 11:14   Previous Episodes Mentioned S4 E      Is Messianic Judaism a Jewish or Christian Religion? S1 E3    The Difference Between Messianic Judaism and Christianity S1 E20 The Difference Between a Messianic Congregation and a Christian Church           S1 E21 Behind the Scenes of a Messianic Congregation S1 E45 Gentile Christians: Where Do They Fit in Messianic Judaism? S1 E47 The Difference Between Jewish and Christian Worship S2 E1    Jewish in America – What the Pew Survey Missed S2 E2    Why are Christians Acting Like Jews? S2 E10 Making Messianic Less Messy S3 E2    What Covenant Am I Under?     Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You   Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ S

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra discuss where Messianic Judaism falls in the realm of Judaism and Christianity and show you that it’s a more complicated question than you might think. First, they head over to Wikipedia to see what it says on the matter – not because it’s the most reputable place to start but because a lot of people find answers there. They also get into: Why this is a loaded question Ethnicity, religion, separations and links Hmmm… Would Jesus define Himself as a Messianic Jew? Where the “one new man” of Ephesians chapter 2 fits in all of this Along the Way Along the way, you’ll also hear about Wikipedia’s interesting qualifier when defining Messianic Judaism and where its entry stands on this question Four pigeonholes that Jews and Christians seem to automatically go to when trying to figure out Messianic Judaism Some errant extremes that some people go to in interpreting Ephesians’ “one new man” So, what about Galatians 3, where Paul says there is neither Jew nor Gentile among Believers in Jesus? How Messianic Judaism is both “distinct from” yet “one with” Christianity How ethnicity and religion muddy the waters of this question, making it difficult to give a simple answer Giving Constantine the benefit of the doubt regarding his separation of Judaism from faith in Jesus The danger of working backward in history and assuming that the way things are today was the way things were back in the Bible, particularly about today’s predominantly Gentile body of Believers in Jesus A paradigm shift for Christians, too – How many, when asked about their faith, say they believe in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob? Words You Might Learn in This Episode Christianos, Christos, Mashiach, ecclesia, Yeshua Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Acts 11:26, John 10:30, John 8:58, Ephesians 2:14–18, Matthew 11:1–6, John 4:25–26, Galatians 3:26–29, Romans 11:17–24, Ephesians 2:8–9, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 7:14, Jeremiah 23:5–6, Ezekiel 36:26–27, Zechariah 12:10, Daniel 9:26, Psalm 16:8–10, Genesis 12:3 Don’t miss next week’s episode discussing why you should even care about all this! Thanks for listening! Other Resources for You A Jew and A Gentile Discuss is listener supported. If you enjoy the discussions, please consider giving a financial gift to keep them going: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

This is our final episode of the season, and it’s a big one! Jesus came as Savior of the world, but most of the world doesn’t believe in Him. Does that mean He failed in what He came to do? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Ezra and Carly ask these hard questions and more. What was Jesus’ goal? Did He fail? Jesus died – isn’t that defeat? If Jewish people are God’s Chosen People, why didn’t Jesus save them while He was on Earth? If Jesus’ earthly ministry was to the Jewish people, why did He make it so hard for them to accept Him? Why does the Bible say Jewish people have a veil over their eyes? Along the Way Along the way, you’ll gain insight into the following: The Jewish concept of the Messiah’s role Why the disciples asked the resurrected Jesus if He was now going to restore the kingdom to Israel Something that Christians have a second nature understanding of but to Jewish people is scandalous The blindness and partial hardening of the Jewish people, for a time, and what that means for the Gentile world When and how that blindness will come off from Jewish eyes The Messiah’s mission to transform hearts before we would actually accept His rule in His Kingdom Words You Might Learn in This Episode Messiah ben David, Messiah ben Youssef, Messianic expectation, Yeshua Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Romans 3:23, Deuteronomy 18:15, 2 Samuel 7:12–13, Isaiah 9:6–7, Acts 6–7, Matthew 27, 1 Corinthians 15:3-8, Genesis 50:19–20, Isaiah 53, Isaiah 52:13–14, Matthew 15:21–28, Ezekiel 34, Jeremiah 23:4–6, Micah 7:14–20, Luke 15:4–7, Revelation 7:9, Isaiah 6:8-10, Deuteronomy 9:13, 2 Corinthians 3:14–16, Romans 11:25–26, Romans 11:30–32, Romans 3:23, John 3:3–6, Ezekiel 36:26, Luke 22:14–20, Jeremiah 31:31–33, Matthew 23:39, Hebrews 8–10, John 14:1–3, John 1616–23a Previous Episodes Mentioned S3 E5 – Why Jews Meet on Saturday and Christians on Sunday S3 E8 – Christian and Jewish Thoughts on the Messiah S3 E1 – Was Adam Jewish? Thanks for listening to this season! We have enjoyed sharing these topics with you. Stay tuned for news about our next season, starting in 2023. We can’t wait to dig into more relevant topics with you! Other Resources for You Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Ezra and Carly break down the various perspectives on Israel – from both the Jewish and Gentile perspective – uncovering differences and finding similarities about this important nation. The conversation includes: What is the Christian perspective on Israel? How do secular Jewish people view Israel? Why is Israel called the Holy Land and why is this (not so) convenient? What is the promise referred to in “Promised Land”? What are the Christian and Jewish perspectives of “Israel in the future”? What does Israel have to do with Jesus’ return? Along the Way You’ll also hear about… Problems in Israel What Israel and Hawaii have in common The amazing smells of Israel What’s on Carly’s bucket list How God is still faithful Previous Episodes Mentioned S1 E14 – Israel: A Little Word Loaded with Meaning S1 E15 – Israel: Promised Land and Political State S1 E16 – Israel: It’s the People Too            Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You   Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

Is Jesus a personal Savior of individuals or a national Redeemer of Israel? Christians and Jewish people tend to have different pictures of the Messiah. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Ezra and Carly dig into the Christian and Jewish concepts of a biblical Messiah, and how they intersect and differ. And all of it reveals a deeper understanding of where each is coming from, providing a bigger scope for dialogue between Jewish and Christian friends. They discuss: The general idea of a Messiah The role personal sin plays in thoughts of the Messiah – big deal or not so much? A process Christians may think Jewish people go through to conclude Jesus is not the Messiah, but do they? Four specific biblical requirements of the Messiah that Jewish people are looking for Along the Way Along the way, you’ll hear about: A Jewish rabbi that tens of thousands of Jewish people believe is the Messiah Deeper insight – from the Jewish perspective – into why the disciples, followers and even John the Baptist asked Jesus to “tell us plainly, are you the Messiah?” Why Isaiah 53 doesn’t reveal Jesus as Messiah to Jewish people A straightforward verse from the apostle Paul, laying out how Jesus fulfilled some essential Messianic prophecies Three questions to elicit deeper conversation about the Messiah between Christian and Jewish friends The encouragement to ask us questions! The encouragement to embrace the “tension” between the concepts of the Messiah being both personal Savior and national Redeemer   Words You Might Learn in This Episode Mashiach, Rabbi Menachem Schneerson, Sar Shalom, Yeshu, Cristos, Christ   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Jeremiah 31:29–34, Isaiah 35:5, Isaiah 61:1, Isaiah 9:6, Isaiah 9:7, Acts 1:6–9, Isaiah 53:1–12, Matthew 5:17, Luke 15:7, Luke 18:9–14, Matthew 23:25–26, John 10:22–39, Matthew 11:1–6, 1 Corinthians 15:3–8, Psalm 22, Isaiah 53:8, Psalm 16:9–10, Romans 1:16, John 3:16, Mark 13:8–10   Previous Episodes Mentioned S3 E5 – Why Jews Meet on Saturday and Christians on Sunday Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

If you’re Jewish and hear a plea to “convert,” you’re undoubtedly offended. If you’re a Christian, chances are you don’t understand why that would be the case. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Ezra and Carly open the doors wide on this little-spoken-of misunderstanding, uncovering some truly helpful and clarifying points you should know – whether you’re Gentile or Jewish. Why the word “convert” is such a big deal What do Christians mean when they use it? How relationships, society and culture lack the context of the Christian motivation around the word “convert,” which results in misunderstandings and offense among people of other religions Where the Bible uses “convert“ and what it means there Why the Church and Christians aren’t aware of confusion surrounding the idea of “converting” Alternate language to use to better convey the heart of your message Along the Way Along the way, you’ll glean some significant knowledge, like: The foundational mandate in mainstream Judaism that the word “convert” violates The difference between “turn” and “turn back” in Scripture, and how it provides keen insight for this discussion Insight from Paul’s discussion of “the olive tree” in Romans 11 that will make Gentile Believers reconsider using the word “convert” when speaking to Jewish people Words You Might Learn in This Episode Kishkes, teshuva, ecclesia   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode John 14:6, Matthew 15:24, Romans 1:16, Ephesians 2:13, Genesis 12:3, Genesis 3:15, John 1:29, Hebrews 3:1, Acts 15:3, Acts 3:19, Romans 11:11–24   Previous Episodes Mentioned S3 E6 – How Judaism and Christianity Parted Ways   Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You   Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

If the first followers of Jesus were almost entirely Jewish, how did there grow to be such a huge divide between Judaism and Christianity? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra dive into a bit of history to talk about just how and when these two faiths — both believing in the God of the Hebrew Scriptures — parted ways.   Ezra and Carly discuss: The beginnings of Judaism and Christianity Jewish authorship of most of the New Testament The influence of the Jewish cultural context The debate among Jewish Believers regarding what to do with non-Jewish Believers and what that says about the origins of Christianity   Along the Way Along the way, you’ll also learn some key factors in the story of how Judaism and Christianity parted ways, such as: What first-century Gentile Believers understood about their faith How the shift from majority-Jewish to majority-Gentile took place in the Church How the destruction of the Temple and the persecution and scattering of the Israelites affected things Who Constantine was and what he did that further separated Judaism and Christianity   Words You Might Learn in This Episode Hey, we’re really sorry, but we ran into a production snag and will get the Words and Scriptures lists added here as soon as we can. Please check back, and thanks for understanding.   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode (ditto)   Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You   Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

Is one day right and one wrong? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra discuss the different days Jews and Gentiles worship and the biblical reasons why. Their conversation takes them to: The biblical first and last days of the week Two reasons why Jewish people worship on Saturdays When did Jesus’ followers switch from meeting on Saturdays to Sundays…or did they? The significance of Sunday for Believers in Jesus What is “the Lord’s Day” in Revelation chapter 1? Along the Way And along the way, you’ll glean a lot more: The days of the week on an Israeli calendar The first thing God called holy What about Jesus’ encounter with the rabbis when He and His disciples picked grain to eat on the Sabbath? How we know that Jesus kept the Sabbath The significance of authorship and audience when it comes to understanding the New Testament Something we don’t see in Scripture The unique situation for Messianic Jewish people And what would a Jew and Gentile podcast be without challenges to both the Jewish and Gentile audiences? Listen carefully – they’re excellent! Words You Might Learn in This Episode Shabbat, Torah, kadosh, berit olam, Le Chaim!, Yohanan Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Genesis chapters 1 and 2, Exodus 31:16–17, Matthew 12:1–8, Mark 2:28, Luke 6:5, Matthew 5:17, John 20:1, John 20:19, Acts 20:7, Acts 10:9–22, John 3:16, Acts 1:12, Acts 17:2, Revelation 1:9–10, Isaiah 13:9, Jeremiah 46:10, Ezekiel 7:19, Joel 2:11, Zechariah 14:1, Revelation 1:11–12, Matthew 15:24, John 4:42, Deuteronomy 9:5–6, Isaiah 43:8–12, Romans 9:4–5 Previous Episodes Mentioned S1 E8, Sabbath: To Keep It or Not – That is the Question Thanks for listening! Other Resources for You Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Ezra tells the fascinating story of his first encounter with a “Lost Tribe” community in Zimbabwe and the intriguing conversation he had with them. Carly and Ezra discuss scriptural references confirming the concept of “the Lost Tribes” today and encourage both Christian and Jewish listeners to be open-minded about Jewish people who don’t look like what you’re familiar with. They also talk about: What the term “Lost Tribes” means, and where it came from Are the “Lost Tribes” legitimate? How Ezra came to understand there are Jewish people scattered around the world living apart from mainstream Judaism What all this means for Christians today Along the Way The conversation also reveals: Why Ezra has a problem with the term “Lost Tribes” and the word he prefers What the Bible has to say about God regathering the people of Israel, and how that idea intersects with the “Lost Tribes of Israel” An Ethiopian Jewish saying that’s been passed down through the generations for centuries What the Lemba called themselves instead of “Jewish” “Think again” challenges for both Christian and Jewish listeners Words You Might Learn in This Episode Kush, “stretch out His hand,” banner, Am Yisrael, Yeshua, Ashkenazi, Misrahi, Sephardic, Shabbat, Beta Israel, kippah, yarmulke, hermeneutics, aliyah Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Ezekiel 11:16–17, Jeremiah 32:37, Isaiah 11:11–12, Zephaniah 3:10 Previous Episodes Mentioned S1 E27, Lost Tribes: Reality or Wishful Thinking? S1 E8, Indigenous Jewish Ministry, with Troy Wallace   Hey, thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

If you’ve been around Christian circles that talk about Israel much, you’ve probably heard the Scripture verse today’s episode is based on. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk about Psalm 122:6, where David gives the directive to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. They discuss what that really means, why we should do it and some practical ways to pray.   The conversation includes such things as: Bumper sticker sayings about supporting Israel – what do they mean Reasons to focus our prayers on Jerusalem The context and meaning behind “pray for the peace of Jerusalem” But wait – Jerusalem is anything but a City of Peace today! Is this verse specifically about Jerusalem, or does it include all of Israel? Along the Way Along the way, you’ll hear a lot of meaningful and interesting thoughts, including: Psalm 122 is a Psalm of Ascent and what that means The meaning of Jerusalem’s God-given name How the Lord’s Prayer ties in with Psalm 122:6’s directive to pray for the peace of Jerusalem If this issue is important, does that make other issues unimportant? God has a heart and soul and feelings Ezra’s moving experience at the Temple Mount’s Western Wall The Ethiopian Jewish community’s saying that speaks of the innate love for Jerusalem Plus: A really practical idea to help inspire prayers for far-away Jerusalem and Israel The destiny of Jerusalem that adds an essential factor to praying for her Words You Might Learn in This Episode Yerushalayim, shalu shalom Yerushalayim, evino shabashmim, shalom, Sar Shalom, Yeshua, Zion, ekklesia   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Psalm 122, Genesis 12:3, Matthew 6:9–13, Zechariah 14:8–9, Ezekiel 38 and 39, Psalm 83, Genesis 15:18, Genesis 17:8, Psalm 105:8–11, Isaiah 9:6, Matthew 23:39, Jeremiah 29:7, Jeremiah 29:10, 2 Kings 21:7, Revelation 21:2, 9–14   Previous Episodes Mentioned S1 E46 – What It Really Means to Bless Israel   Thanks for listening!   Other Resources for You   Intercessory Prayer Guide for Israel: https://www.jewishvoice.org/pray/scriptures Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Ezra and Carly discuss various covenants of the Bible and how they relate to Jewish people and Christians. You’ll learn: What a covenant is Six primary covenants of the Bible: Adamic, Noahic, Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic and New Covenants How these covenants build upon one another and without them, the New Covenant would mean something different A Christian perspective of “New Covenant” vs. “New Testament” Is the New Covenant only for Christians? Practical takeaways for Christians and Jews Along the Way Along the way, you’ll also learn: A pyramid illustration of the covenants Where the word Semitic comes from God makes covenants and promises in response to faith Why God delivered the Israelites from slavery to Egypt Why it isn’t enough, as a Christian, to only read the New Testament The Old Testament prophesied about the coming of a New Covenant Two things the enemy of God wants to accomplish among Believers in Jesus   Words You Might Learn in This Episode Zehra, Yeshua ben David   Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Genesis 3:18–19, Genesis 3:15, Genesis 6:6, Genesis 6:5–14, Genesis 8:21, Genesis 9:18–17, Genesis 9:18–19, Genesis 1:1–3, Exodus 14:13–31, 2 Samuel 7:16, Mark 10:47, Genesis 17:20, Matthew 26:26–29, Jeremiah 31:31–33, Romans 11:17–24, Isaiah 49:6, Acts 13:47, John 3:16, Ephesians 6:11, Zechariah 14:8–9, Matthew 23:29, Matthew 5:18   Previous Episodes Mentioned S3 E1 – Was Adam Jewish? S1 E30 – The Difference Between Passover and Easter S1 E32 – Passover and Easter Foods Explained S1 E33 – Holy Week from a Jewish Perspective S1 E36 – Problems with the Church Replacing Israel S1 E37 – Does the Bible Say the Church Is the New Israel? S1 E2 – Misconceptions Jews Have About Christians S1 E23 – Jonathan Bernis’ Story S1 E 24 – Jonathan Bernis’ Story Continued   Thanks for listening! Other Resources for You Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

If Adam is the father of all people, does Judaism go all the way back to him? Where did the Jewish people begin? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra answer the listener question, “Was Adam Jewish?” Spoiler Alert: The answer is “no,” but listen in because there’s a lot of interesting and insightful stuff in this episode about Abraham, Isaac and Ishmael and Jacob and Esau. Plus, you’ll find some great takeaways for your personal relationship with God. Ezra and Carly discuss: Who the first Jewish person was The first biblical use of the word “Hebrew” What “Hebrew” actually means Is “Jewish” a race, a heritage, or a religion? Why only one of Abraham’s sons is Jewish If Adam wasn’t Jewish, what do the Jewish people have to do with Adam? Along the Way Along the way, you’ll also learn about: Where the word Jewish came from What made Abraham a Hebrew Abraham’s obedience to the voice of God God’s reward of Abraham’s faith Did God “hate” Esau? Blessing Israel in no way means vilifying or not loving Arab people Plus some great personal takeaways about Faith and obedience God’s blessings in our lives and Sometimes God has to “change our identity” before He can release His blessings Words and Meanings You Might Learn in This Episode “In Adam,” l’dor v’dor, Torah, Judah, Ibrit, brit, Brit Kodesh, Bet El, Jewish Believer, Yeshua, zehra, Ismael, Yitzhak, Bereshit, Rivka, Yaakov, Israel Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Genesis 14:13, Genesis 12:2, Genesis 17:17–20, Genesis 25, Malachi 1:2–3, Romans 9:13, Genesis 32:28, 1 Corinthians 15:22, Romans 5:12–20, Deuteronomy 9:5–6, Hebrews 9:13–14, 10:14, Isaiah 53:6, Romans 3:23, John 1:29, Matthew 15:24, Romans 10:13, Joel 2:32 Previous Episodes Mentioned S1 E2 | Misconceptions Jews Have About Christians S1 E14 | Israel: A Little Word Loaded with Meaning S1 E16 | Israel: It’s A People Too Other Resources for You Learn more about Jesus’ appearances in the Old Testament with the “Jewish Voice with Jonathan Bernis” TV show: Enter to win free coffee: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, Learn more about Lost Tribes Coffee Co.: www.losttribescoffee.co Learn more about the “Lost Tribes of Israel”: www.losttribescoffee.co/ Consider financially supporting the podcast: www.jewishvoice.org/donate/wem/what-you-hear Ask a question, give us feedback: www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org/contact/ Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts Social media: Find us under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Share us with your friends. Leave a review on your favorite podcast app. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International. Learn more about Jewish Voice at www.jewishvoice.org. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk openly about the sometimes messy and perhaps confusing realm of Messianic Judaism. What is it? Who’s part of it? And why should Gentile Christians care about it?  Ezra asks Carly, a Gentile Believer, what Messianic Judaism is. From there, the conversation delves into: If “Messianic Jew” is a term believing Jews use to describe themselves Whether Messianic Judaism is a denomination If Messianic Judaism came out of the Jesus Movement Who the first Messianic Jew was The context in which faith in Jesus spread in the first century Why there seems to be so much variance in Messianic Jewish practice Along the Way Along the way, they discuss these key matters and more: Differentiating the term Messianic Jewish from its essence The vital component of Messianic Judaism that sees Jewish people embracing their Jewish identity and believing Jesus is the Messiah and that these two things are not in conflict with one another What Jewish sources say about Messianic Judaism A challenge to Jewish listeners to consider how believing in fulfilled Messianic prophecies of the Hebrew Scriptures wouldn’t mean converting to another religion What unites us should be stronger than what differences we have Something first-century Jewish Believers in Jesus did not say What Jewish/Gentile scenario has been kind of flipped on its head The most important question a Jewish person will ever answer in their life, and how no one can answer it for them Words You Might Learn in This Episode Ecclesia, Mashiach, diaspora, kippah, Shabbat Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Romans 10:13, Joel 2:32, John 3:16, Deuteronomy 18:15, Psalm 16:8–11, Acts 2:22–36, John 14:3, Isaiah 7:14, Jeremiah 31:15, Jeremiah 31:31, Zechariah 9:9, Zechariah 11:12–13, Zechariah 12:10, Daniel 7:13–14, Daniel 9:24–27, Galatians 3:28, Romans 3:21–23, Matthew 16:13–17, 1 Corinthians 15:1–8, Romans 11:11–26, John 14:6, Acts 4:12, 1 Corinthians 12:12–27, Revelation 21:9 Previous Episodes Mentioned S1 E3 – Difference Between Messianic Judaism and Christianity S1 E15 – Israel: Promised Land and Political State And with that, Season Two comes to a close. Be sure and watch for updates on Season Three, coming this Fall! And, you can always relisten to any conversation on our website A Jew and A Gentile Discuss or wherever you listen to podcasts. Other Important Stuff May 2-8 is the 2022 Bless Israel 5K. Walk or run “with us” to show your support for Israel and the Jewish people in the 2nd annual Bless Israel Virtual 5K. Learn more on our website and register today! Win Free Coffee. Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount &ndash

Jewish weddings include some really interesting traditions. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk about their meanings, similarities and differences from what most of our audience may be familiar with. Among the things they discuss are: Wedding attire, including why most grooms wear kippahs Fasting before getting married The Jewish tradition of bedeken, the veiling of the bride by her groom The significance of the The part in the ceremony when the bride circles the groom several times and what that means The special marriage contract of a Jewish wedding The concluding tradition of Jewish weddings, resulting in the shout of “Mazel Tov!” Gifts in increments of $18? What’s that all about? So, this is all cool, but how does it apply to Christian listeners? Along the Way As they talk about the fascinating meanings of Jewish wedding traditions, they bring out some other intriguing things, like: The Owen Wilson image Ezra can’t get out of his mind when he thinks of Jewish weddings Why a Jewish groom meets the bride halfway down the aisle What Jericho has to do with Jewish weddings The funny thing Ezra’s Israeli wife put in their Hebrew-written marriage contract The difference between the Jewish marriage covenant and typical wedding vows What some Jewish grooms forget in the wedding ceremony that leaves brides saying, “Um, hello?” How Jewish letters and words have numeric values associated with them A great reminder about one of the primary purposes of this podcast, for both Jewish and Christian listeners How Jewish wedding traditions are so filled with meaning that Christians can relate to What the traditional stomping of the glass by the groom has to do with the Temple A false choice many people think they have to make – if they’re Jewish, from a Jewish background or are in a mixed relationship A challenge to dig into the Scriptures and see if Jesus could be the unifying factor you never realized Words You Might Learn in This Episode Ashkenazi Jewish, kippah, yarmulke, chuppah, bedeken, tallit, Ani ledodi vedodi li, ketubah, mazel tov, chai, lechaim Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Matthew 19:5, Song of Solomon 2:16, Luke 22:20, Ezekiel 40–43, Revelation 11:1–2 and 9, Matthew 15:24, Isaiah 53:5–12, Psalm 16:10, John 4:42, 1 John 4:14, Ephesians 2:14 Previous Episodes Mentioned S2 E1 – Jewish in America: What the Pew Survey Missed S1 E40 – Staying Jewish: Love and Marriage A1 E49 – Mixed Marriages: Love and Marriage Other Important Stuff May 2-8 is the 2022 Bless Israel 5K. Walk or run “with us” to show your support for Israel and the Jewish people in the 2nd annual Bless Israel Virtual 5K. Learn more on our website and register today! Win Free Coffee. Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you

Are you thinking what we think you might be thinking? Hm. Zion. I know that word – it’s in the Bible. Isn’t it a mountain? No wait, is it a city? Or is it the Temple? I’m confused. How can I know what Christian Zionism is when I’m not even sure what Zion means? Never fear; in this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Ezra and Carly clear that up at the beginning with a really cool analogy. Then, they discuss a common definition of Christian Zionism, analyzing it bit by bit to root out the Good, the Bad and where it can get downright Ugly. Along the Way As they explore various aspects of Christian Zionism, their conversation takes them to: What Scripture means when it says God stretches out His arm Before there was Christian Zionism, there was Jewish Zionism One of the main verses Christian Zionism springs from – and it’s part of “the Good” A “Messianic declaration” necessary for Jesus’ return How Israel’s regathering needs to also lead to Israel’s redemption Putting the shoe on the other foot – What if this attitude about Jewish people was the attitude toward your family? It’s part of “the Bad” that’s possible with Christian Zionism, and it can alienate us from each other Whichever way you look at this particular understanding of Christian Zionism – either from a Jewish perspective or Christian – it really belongs in “the Ugly” category A phrase that has become a trigger to Carly now A poorly-worded part of a Christian Zionism definition that, if carried out to its subtle conclusion, essentially aims to make Jewish people cease to exist in their own faith. Now that’s Bad! And Ugly! A “Really Ugly” thing that emerges out of a fear of the hot-button issue of the Gospel Words You Might Learn in This Episode Zion, Christian Zionism, Am Israel, Eretz Israel, Baruch haba bashem Adonai, aliyah Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Psalm 76:1–2, Psalm 87:2, Psalm 135:21, Psalm 51:18, Genesis 13:14–17, Deuteronomy 12:4–5, Ezra 6:12, Zechariah 14:8–9, Ezekiel 36:24, 2 Samuel 22:50–51, Ezra 3:11, Isaiah 54:10, Ezekiel 20:34, Ezekiel 11:16–17, Ezekiel 36:25, Matthew 23:37–39, Romans 11:25–27, Romans 3:25, John 1:29, John 14:6, Zechariah 14:2, Matthew 15:24, Galatians 3:28, Romans 3:23, Acts 4:12, Romans 11:17–24 Previous Episodes Mentioned Episode 15 – Israel: Promised Land and Political State Other Important Stuff May 2-8 is the 2022 Bless Israel 5K. Walk or run “with us” to show your support for Israel and the Jewish people in the 2nd annual Bless Israel Virtual 5K. Learn more on our website and register today! Win Free Coffee. Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks

An Urgent Message about UkraineWhat’s happening in Ukraine right now is terrible. Jewish Voice is partnering with trusted ministries right in Ukraine – and also Moldova, Romania, and Poland – to provide shelter and relief in Jesus’ name to the escalating number of Ukrainians fleeing for safety. Jewish Voice plans to provide as much comfort and aid as the Lord enables us to do. Please keep praying for Ukraine, and give as the Lord enables you to help during these difficult times. Global pandemic. Supply chain shortages. Energy crisis. And now Russia has invaded Ukraine. Hard times and heartbreak confront us all around. And it’s making some people wonder how close we’re advancing toward the End Times. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk about this Bible topic that some may prefer to avoid. (It’s not exactly what most people read about for a morning devotional, right?) But, they come at it from a different angle than the typical debates about pre-this or post-that. Their conversation reveals a lot about the Jewish perspective of “the world to come,” and they share some Hebrew words that carry some hefty meaning related to the Last Days. They also mention a ton of Scriptures revealing that this whole idea of “the End Times” is not a New Testament, Christian thing. It's an Old Testament, Jewish thing.  They discuss The End Times as an Old Testament thing, not just a Christian thing How a Jewish person would define how the world ends Waiting for Messiah to come – either for the first time or again The Jewish perspective on the Book of Life and what happens “in the end” to someone who’s not Jewish For Believers, how understanding Jewish End-Time thought may help them when talking to Jewish friends Along the Way Along the way, they get into some really interesting things like: How the Hebrew definition of a single word in Jeremiah 29:11 changes so much. Like, whoa! What the book of Daniel says about Jewish people in the End Times Something for Christians to think about as they eagerly await the return of Jesus A cool word-study challenge Encouragement to not neglect, brush over or take as symbolic an important factor of End Times events And hey, don’t shy away from this stuff because it’s too complex, OK? This is important stuff worth looking at (It’s in the Bible after all, right?) Words You Might Learn in This Episode Eschatology, Olam Haba, Baurch haba, Yakov/Jacob, Israel, aharit hayamim, sof, Am Yisrael, Messiah, Maschiach Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Ezekiel 38, Revelation 20:7–10, Psalm 89:14, Matthew 24:1–32, Matthew 25:31-33, Genesis 49, Jeremiah 29:11, Revelation 7–14, Daniel 10:14, Isaiah 39:5–7, Jeremiah 25:12–14, Revelation 3:1–10, 2 Thessalonians 2:3–10, Daniel 10–12, Genesis 3:15, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 9:6–7, Isiah 59:20, Isaiah 53, Genesis 37–41, Zechariah 9 and 14, John 1:29, Isaiah 53:6, Zechariah 14:8–9, Acts 1:6, Luke 24:50–51, Zechariah 8:22, Zechariah 14:16, Isaiah 45:21, Matthew 15:24, Romans 10:13, John 3:16, Matthew 25, Revelation 6, 8–10, 16, Ephesians 4:30, Revelation 3:5, 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17, Revelation 5:10, Jeremiah 30:7, Matthew 23:39 Previous Episodes Mentioned Episode 5: Die Another Day – Yom Kippur Episode 34: What Happens When You Die? ◦◦◦ Other Important Stuff May 2-8 is the 2022 Bless Israel 5K. Walk or run “with us” to show

“I’ll take Purim for 800, Alex.” There’s meaning to every holiday, but sometimes it gets lost behind its symbols and traditions. Listen to this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, and you might even ace a Purim category on Jeopardy. From ooos and boos, noisemakers and baked goods, to the threat of destruction and profound deliverance, Purim has it all. Join Carly and Ezra as they discuss the story, meaning and traditions of Purim – one of the most festive Jewish holidays on the calendar. You’ll hear: The Purim story, its main characters and the meaning beyond the partying What graggers are and their part in Purim celebrations What the Purim plays are all about How young the brave and noble Queen Esther may have been Why Purim is both fasting and feasting All about hamantaschen Along the Way The conversation leads to all kinds of fun facts and meaningful insights, including: • How rabbinical tradition gauges “celebrating well” • The most common Purim tradition • The saying that evolved into “the whole enchilada” • Why retelling stories is a part of so many Jewish holidays • A traditional, ancient Jewish curse (not that we endorse it) and what it has to do with Purim celebrations • The historical pattern of “intended annihilation” followed by great deliverance of the Jewish people • What “ears” have to do with Purim’s most famous baked treat • The super-surprising number of times God is mentioned in the book of Esther • God’s miraculous fingerprints all over the Purim story   Words You Might Learn in This Episode Gragger, Megillah, Megillat Esther, pur, Purim, Hadassah, chag, Chag Purim, tsum, Tsum Esther, hamantaschen, oznei Haman, mohntaschen Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Esther 3:7, Esther 7:1–6, Esther 4:14, Esther 4:15–16, Jeremiah 25:11–12, Daniel 12:11, Luke 22:49–51   Previous Episodes Mentioned Episode 26 – Why Purim is Such a Party   Watch the Hamantaschen Taste Test Video on YouTube Ezra and Carly will be trying a popular Purim dessert blindfolded and on video so you can get their great reactions! Let’s see who can guess the flavor of the treats. Carly’s 0 for 2 in their holiday food taste tests. Can she beat Ezra this time? ◦◦◦ Other Important Stuff May 2-8 is the 2022 Bless Israel 5K. Walk or run “with us” to show your support for Israel and the Jewish people in the 2nd annual Bless Israel Virtual 5K. Learn more on our website and register today! Win Free Coffee. Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks! Subscribe. You can subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Watch us on YouTube and subscribe there to help grow the channel. Share. Don’t keep us all to yourself! Share the podcast with people you know. Leaving a review will also help spread the word about the podcast. Follow and Engage. Keep up with us by following and engaging with us on social media under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Ask and Comment. We’d love to hear from you! Please leave us feedback or send in your questions for us to

Whoa, whoa, whoa. Hold on a second. You’re saying that communion – as in the Christian remembrance of Jesus’ death for us – is Jewish? WHAT? Some things seem distinctly Christian. And communion is one of them, right? It’s just so New Testament that how could it not be? But what if everything about the New Testament practice of communion originated from an ancient Jewish custom commanded by God? Well, that would almost be like God had some intentional plan to connect the two. Ahh, now you’re tracking! In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Ezra and Carly engage in an eye-opening conversation that you’re definitely going to want to hear. First, they share their personal stories of understanding communion from their different backgrounds. Then, they dig into: The incredible Jewish context of communion How Messianic Jews observe communion and how often How Jewish observance of Passover relates to the Christian communion Application for Christians today Along the Way You’ll learn a ton of fascinating stuff during their conversation, including: Carly’s, “Do not make a face” experience The connection between Jewish matzah and Jesus’ death A key motivation for this podcast Night, supper, bread, wine and cups – slowing down through this Scripture passage to ask “wait a minute” questions about each phrase – and the fascinating answers to them How the Jewish context provides amazing insight into the words “before” and “after” of the Last Supper account Communion is a commandment to Believers Do Coke and Doritos count? How every year, the worldwide Jewish community goes through communion without even knowing it Encouragement to Christians: Do this! (You’ll be glad you did) How we’re living in an unfinished Passover Seder Words You Might Learn in This Episode Communion, Lord’s Supper, Eucharist, yizkor, Yeshua, Seder, matzah, Cup of Redemption, ekklesia, Hallel, Cup of Hallel Scriptures Referenced in This Episode 1 Corinthians 23:23–28, Romans 1:16, Matthew 15:24, Romans 10:9 and 13, John 19:31, Luke 22:19, Matthew 16:21, John 3:14, John 12:32, Ezekiel 18:20, Jeremiah 31:31–33, Exodus 12:24–27, 2 Corinthians 3:14–16, Matthew 26:17–30, Mark 14:12–26, Luke 22:1–30, John 13:1–30, Revelation 19:16, Matthew 26:29, Matthew 6:9–10, Leviticus 16:7–10, Genesis 2:17, Deuteronomy 30:15:20, Ezekiel 18:20, Hebrews 10:8–10, Romans 10:13 Previous Episodes Mentioned Season 1, Episode 41 – Top 5 Jewish Objections to Jesus Season 1, Episode 30 – The Difference between Passover and Easter Season 1, Episode 32 – Holy Week from a Jewish Perspective ◦◦◦ Other Important Stuff   Win Free Coffee. Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amoun

“But wait, there’s more!” That could have been a good title for this podcast conversation. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Ezra and Carly dive into the reason why Jesus seemingly dawdled in going to His friend Lazarus after hearing he was dying. Mary and Martha had sent urgent word to Jesus to come and heal their brother, but Jesus didn’t even leave where He was for a few days. Why? He showed up “late,” and Lazarus was long dead. You may be familiar with the story and know that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. It’s a dramatic account and a pretty substantial reason for His initial delay, right? But wait, there’s more! More than you know. Carly and Ezra discuss: Was Jesus “late”? Why the fourth day of the story is so important to the Jewish audience and why it should be important for Christians too The Christian mindset and common takeaway from Lazarus’ resurrection How the four-day understanding relates to Jesus’ resurrection We can do the math, and Friday to Sunday doesn’t equal three days and three nights. What gives? An encouraging application for your everyday faith-life, gleaned from the Lazarus story Along the Way As they discuss, some pretty great insights emerge: Application vs. Interpretation How the meaning of the Lazarus story radically changes when you know the Jewish context – as Ezra would say, “Insert mind-blown emoticon here.” (It was a huge takeaway for Carly.) Don’t pass up these four words the apostle Paul used – they mean a ton! What the Day of Preparation is Ezra’s theory about Good Friday Watching out for Christianese and glossing over what the Bible actually says An appeal to our Jewish audience: If you’re going to do “this,” make sure it’s from a place of “that” Jesus is in the business of confirming to us that He is everything He says He is – even through our unbelief and doubts Words You Might Learn in This Episode Yohanon, Yohanon the Immerser, Yeshua, Moshiach/Messiah, Day of Preparation, Pesach Scriptures Referenced in This Episode John 11: 1–45, John 13:23, John 8:58, John 11:17, Hebrews 6:1–2, Matthew 12:40, Mark 9:31, 1 Corinthians 15:3–4, Acts 2:21, Matthew 18:21, Matthew 16:14–16, John 10:17–18, Matthew 26:17, Mark 15:42, Exodus 12, 1 Corinthians 5:7, Matthew 28:6 Other Episodes Mentioned Episode 34 – What Happens When You Die? Episode 56 – Communion: Borrowed from the Jews (release date: March 1, 2022) ◦◦◦ Other Important Stuff Win Free Coffee. Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks! Subscribe. You can subscribe to the A Jew and A Gentile Discuss podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

The world includes a lot of cultures, right? But when you think about it, it also has a ton of sub-cultures, and each one has its own nuances, understandings and interpretations. What’s said in one micro-culture – even within the same country, state or region – might mean something completely different to another. How on earth are we supposed to get along and be on the same page together? When it comes to all things Jewish and Christian, that’s what this podcast is here for. (Ezra and Carly to the rescue!) In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly asks Ezra to talk about three things he believes the Jewish community would like Christians to understand about them. As a bonus, she asks what the Messianic Jewish community wishes the Church grasped about Jewish Believers. Along the Way Along the way, they bring out some great things to help bridge the gap. Things like: A great metaphor Ezra heard, describing Jews and Gentiles, the Bible and a Broadway show How, just because Christians can look backward with a clear vision, doesn’t mean Jewish people can look forward with the same clarity An expression of Judaism that Jews don’t recognize Discussing the Jewish roots of New Testament faith doesn’t always open the door to understanding Advice for Christians regarding sharing their faith with Jewish people An appeal to Jewish people to consider Christian history from a different angle Why some copies of the Scriptures in synagogues go straight from Isaiah 52 to Isaiah 54 Why you can’t “convince someone to faith” The dangerous miscommunication that happens when Christians use the word “convert” with Jewish people The cultural mountain that hinders Jewish people from seeing Jesus in Isaiah 53 What the Jews’ “irrevocable calling” means to Messianic Believers Words You Might Learn in This Episode root/fatness of the olive tree, Yeshua, wild branches, Messianic Jew Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Romans 11:13–21, Isaiah 11:12, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 53:1, 5, 7, Matthew 16:16, 1 Corinthians 5:7, 2 Corinthians 3:14–15, Isaiah 53:6, Romans 3:23, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 6:13, Isaiah 59:2, Romans 8:15, Ephesians 2:8–9, Romans 11:29, Romans 11:15, Genesis 12:3, Isaiah 4:10, Romans 11:1–2, 2 Timothy 2:13 Previous Episodes Mentioned S1 E25 – Let’s Call It, Ezra’s Story S1 E42 – Top 5 Jewish Objections to Jesus S1 E53 – Jewish in America: What the Pew Survey Missed S1 E48 – Who’s More Important, Jews or Gentiles? ◦◦◦ Other Important Stuff Win Free Coffee. Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks! Subscribe. You can subscribe to the A Jew and A Gentile Discuss podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Watch

So, you run across a person you know is Gentile but who wears a Star of David, a prayer shawl and says and does Jewish things. And you just don’t get it. Wait, what? Why…? Huh? Or maybe you’re one of those people; you’re Gentile, and you love Israel and the Jewish people just like the Bible says you should. So, what’s the problem, right? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra dig into the subject of “Jewish affinity” to sort out the questions and mysteries surrounding it. They challenge both sides with pointed questions and insights. Join them as they discuss: What “Jewish affinity” is and where it sometimes comes from Biblical examples of Jesus being Jewish Where the words Jew and Jewish come from Invitation vs. obligation regarding Jewish observance The line where Jewish things could become not so good for Gentiles Along the Way As always, as the conversation progresses, some great insights emerge, like: Flipping the script on perceived weirdness of a Jewish affinity due to mixed marriage Jesus not only “was” Jewish, Jesus “is” Jewish Interesting tidbit about how the “Lost Tribes of Israel” identify themselves Three questions Ezra answers with: “I absolutely do,” “No, I don’t,” and “Sure, I do” The two types of “Why” questions Gentiles should ask themselves about participating in Jewish things Do Christians earn anything in God’s eyes by doing Jewish things? Reasons why Messianic Judaism may have gotten a bad rap among the Christian community Caution about fair-weather alignment with the Jewish people Loving Jewish things but not Jewish people – Ouch! – Good point of self-examination Words You Might Learn in This Episode Rabbi, rabboni, Yehuda, Ani Yehuda, Bnei Menashe, Cohen/Kohanim, Lost Tribes, “scattered Jewish communities,” WWJD, Shabbat, tallit, mezuzah, shin, Hashem Scriptures Referenced in this Episode Isaiah 53:6, Romans 3:3, Hebrews 1:3, 0:12, 12:2, Revelation 3:21, Revelation 19:11–16, Haggai 2:7, Deuteronomy 7:7, 9:5–6, Isaiah 49:6, Romans 11:13–21, Romans 7:12–13, Galatians 3:24, Romans 3:20, Colossians 1:15 Previous Episodes Mentioned S2 E1 | Jewish in America: What the Pew Survey Missed S1 E49 | Mixed Marriages: Love and Marriage with Aaron and Maria Baer ◦◦◦  Other Important Stuff Win Free Coffee. Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks! Subscribe. You can subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Watch us on YouTube and subscribe there to help grow the channel.

Welcome back to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss! We’re excited to begin Season 2 of conversations between Ezra and Carly – a Jew and a Gentile who both believe in Jesus. And now you can also watch A Jew and A Gentile Discuss on YouTube! Season 2 begins with our co-hosts pulling out some interesting data from the recent Pew Survey about American Jews. They discover some basic statistics that bring up a lot of curious questions. Join them as they talk about: The number of Jewish people in America You’re Jewish, but what religion do you identify with? Did God give the Land of Israel to the Jewish people? Is observing the Law part of being Jewish? Can a Jew believe in Jesus? What the survey means by “Jewish background” The percentage of Jewish people in mixed marriages What “Jewish affinity” means in Pew language Along the Way You’ll also get interesting insight into things like: A survey result that surprised Carly but not Ezra 3 things about Judaism and how they affect survey stats What twice as many evangelical Christians say about Israel as compared to Jewish people A negative statistic with positive undertones (Ezra wants to dance) What Scripture says about Jewish identity that the Pew Survey doesn’t Who are the millions “not Jewish enough” to be counted What should you do as a Christian if you have friends of a Jewish background An appeal to Jewish listeners: Ponder this challenging question An appeal to Christian listeners: Consider this aspect of individuals’ unique faith stories Words You Might Learn in This Episode Rabbinic authorities, secular, Jewish background, Jewish affinity Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Romans 11:29, Deuteronomy 18:15 Previous Episodes Recommended EP025 – Let’s Call It Ezra’s Story EP022 – I’m a Christian with a Jewish Background – Now What? EP003 – The Difference Between Messianic Judaism and Christianity EP045 – Gentile Christians – Where Do They Fit in Messianic Judaism? Links to the Pew Survey Pew Research Center: www.pewforum.org Jewish Americans in 2020 The Size of the U.S. Jewish Population Jewish Americans in 2020 (PDF of the full report, all 248 pages) Other Important Stuff NEW! Watch us on YouTube! Now you can see us too. Find our YouTube channel here. Win Free Coffee. Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear (and see)? The only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks! Subscribe. You can subscribe to

A Jew and A Gentile Discuss Podcast Season 2 is right around the corner! Tune-in on Tuesday, February 1st for the first episode of the new season.  In the meantime, Ezra and Carly share a sneak preview of what's coming up.

Can you believe it’s been a year? Well, almost. September 1 marks the 1-year birthday of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss podcast. In this episode, Carly and Ezra talk about the past year’s podcasts – which included everything from fun holiday foods to Gaza’s attack on Israel to living out your faith as a Jewish person who loves Jesus or a Gentile Christian who loves Israel and the Jewish people. Hear some of their favorite episodes, funny stories, and the things they love best about engaging with you, the listening audience, as they wrap up Season 1 with a look back at a year’s worth of discussions. ◦◦◦ Thanks for a fantastic Season 1! Stay in touch! Follow and engage with us on social media under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. If you’re new here, check out past episodes at A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. We’ll be back in early 2022 with Season 2, so stay tuned. Subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you get your podcasts, so you don’t miss a single episode! And if you would, leave a review and share the podcast with people you know to help spread the word. Don’t forget how much we love hearing from you. We read every email, comment and review. Your questions often turn into future episodes, so ask away! Stop by our website to leave your comment or submit a question. Please consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift to keep the conversations going. And don’t forget to enter to win a free bag of Lost Tribes Coffee Co. coffee in our monthly giveaway. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

With special guests Michael and Vanessa Mistretta What’s it really like to pick up your life and move to Israel? Why would anyone do that? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk with Michael and Vanessa Mistretta about how their very different immigration stories have one thing in common: God calling them. Want a Free Bag of Amazing Coffee? Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks! Want more discussions more conveniently? You can subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you get your podcasts. Sharing: It’s nice Don’t keep us all to yourself! Share the podcast with people you know. Let them in on these exciting conversations, and spark some of your own discussions among friends. Leaving a review about A Jew and A Gentile Discuss will also help spread the word to others about the podcast. Follow and Engage Keep up with us by following and engaging with us on social media under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Do you have a comment or question? We’d love to hear from you! Please leave us some feedback or send in your questions for us to consider for future episodes. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

How do a Jewish boy and a Catholic girl fall in love and get married? And once they do, then what? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk with Aaron and Maria Baer to hear the story of their mixed marriage and how they make it work. Aaron is the president of the Center for Christian Virtue based in Columbus, Ohio, and was a guest early on in J&G’s inaugural season to talk about Jewish Believers in Politics. Maria is a prolific freelance writer, stay-at-home mom and fellow podcaster. Want a Free Bag of Amazing Coffee? Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks! Want more discussions more conveniently? You can subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you get your podcasts. Sharing: It’s nice Don’t keep us all to yourself! Share the podcast with people you know. Let them in on these exciting conversations, and spark some of your own discussions among friends. Leaving a review about A Jew and A Gentile Discuss will also help spread the word to others about the podcast. Follow and Engage Keep up with us by following and engaging with us on social media under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Do you have a comment or question? We’d love to hear from you! Please leave us some feedback or send in your questions for us to consider for future episodes. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

All this talk about Jewish people being “God’s Chosen People” ­– what’s up with this “chosenness” stuff? Does God love the Jewish people more than Gentiles? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly hits Ezra with questions on this very subject, asking what many Christians may be thinking but don’t want to ask outright. Want a Free Bag of Amazing Coffee? Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks!   Want more discussions more conveniently? You can subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you get your podcasts. Sharing: It’s nice Don’t keep us all to yourself! Share the podcast with people you know. Let them in on these exciting conversations, and spark some of your own discussions among friends. Leaving a review about A Jew and A Gentile Discuss will also help spread the word to others about the podcast. Follow and Engage Keep up with us by following and engaging with us on social media under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Do you have a comment or question? We’d love to hear from you! Please leave us some feedback or send in your questions for us to consider for future episodes. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

Worship styles – there are a ton of them out there in Christian churches alone, aren’t there? So, what about Jewish worship? What does that look like? What are the differences and similarities between Jewish and Christian worship? And what constitutes worship anyway? These are the things Ezra and Carly address in this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. They look at the origins and heart of worship and explore the Jewish and Christian perspectives of worshiping God. Want a Free Bag of Amazing Coffee? Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks! Want more discussions more conveniently? You can subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you get your podcasts. Sharing: It’s nice Don’t keep us all to yourself! Share the podcast with people you know. Let them in on these exciting conversations, and spark some of your own discussions among friends. Leaving a review about A Jew and A Gentile Discuss will also help spread the word to others about the podcast. Follow and Engage Keep up with us by following and engaging with us on social media under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Do you have a comment or question? We’d love to hear from you! Please leave us some feedback or send in your questions for us to consider for future episodes. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

You’ve probably seen a bumper sticker somewhere saying, “I stand with Israel.” And maybe you’ve even heard something about “blessing” Israel. But, what on Earth do “standing” and “blessing” really mean?  This is what Ezra and Carly dig into in this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. They help lift the fog around these phrases and present a biblical perspective of what it really means to “bless Israel.” Want a Free Bag of Amazing Coffee? Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. So, if you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks! Want more discussions more conveniently? You can subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you get your podcasts. Sharing: It’s nice Don’t keep us all to yourself! Share the podcast with people you know. Let them in on these exciting conversations, and spark some of your own discussions among friends. Leaving a review about A Jew and A Gentile Discuss will also help spread the word to others about the podcast. Follow and Engage Keep up with us by following and engaging with us on social media under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Do you have a comment or question? We’d love to hear from you! Please leave us some feedback or send in your questions for us to consider for future episodes. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

With Special Guest, Travis Snow So, maybe you’re a Christian and thinking, “I’m not Jewish, so, what does Messianic Judaism have to do with me?” Or you might be wondering just the opposite, “Why am I so drawn to the Jewish people and understanding the Jewishness of the Bible?” Well, today’s guest knows both ends of that spectrum. Travis Snow is not your stereotypical Messianic ministry leader. For one, he’s a Gentile. And two, he’s a millennial, younger than most leaders in the field of Messianic Judaism today. Travis is the founder of Voice of Messiah Ministries, an outreach and teaching ministry to both Jew and Gentile. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk with Travis about his testimony of coming to faith in Jesus and the journey that led him into Messianic Judaism. Through the course of the conversation, you’ll see that there is a place for Gentile Christians in the Messianic Jewish movement. ◦◦◦  Do you like what you hear? Follow and engage with us on social media under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you get your podcasts, and leave a review to spread the word. Share the podcast with people you know and please consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift to keep the conversations going. We’d love to hear from you. Stop by our website to leave a comment or submit a question. And don’t forget to enter to win a free bag of Lost Tribes Coffee Co. coffee in our monthly giveaway. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

You might have heard about a bunch of crazy chaos going on over in Israel last month. But maybe you don’t really know what it’s about. Well, in May of 2021, Israel and Hamas in Gaza went head to head for 11 intense days. Incessant rocket fire from Gaza and responding airstrikes from Israel exacted a heavy toll on Palestinians and Israelis. Why the sudden flare-up? What started it all? What really happened in those 11 days? What does it even mean, and why should we care? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra explore the conflict as best they can to give you clarity on matters not fully communicated in the news. Along the way, they outline the events of this recent battle between Israel and Gaza, talk about extremists and peace, and stress the emphatic need for prayer.  ◦◦◦  Do you like what you hear? Follow and engage with us on social media under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you get your podcasts, and leave a review to spread the word. Share the podcast with people you know and please consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift to keep the conversations going. We’d love to hear from you. Stop by our website to leave a comment or submit a question. And don’t forget to enter to win a free bag of Lost Tribes Coffee Co. coffee in our monthly giveaway. This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

Get ready for an exciting, eye-opening episode! Carly and Ezra talk with Rabbi Troy Wallace, Vice President of Congregation and Leadership Development at Jewish Voice Ministries. They discuss some fascinating expressions of the Trinity found throughout the entire Bible. Troy shares loads of Scriptures, so you’ll want to be sure to look them all up to see how amazing the God of Israel is as He reveals Himself. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, the three discuss: What “the Trinity” means Why the Trinity is a fundamental problem for Jewish people How Jewish people understand the Spirit of God mentioned in the Creation story Appearances of Jesus in the Hebrew Scriptures Tips for discussing the Trinity with Jewish friends and family Along the way Additional things you’ll learn, highlights, things discussed: How the Hebrew word echad often means a “compound unity” rather than a single item That the word “Trinity” isn’t in the Bible How the problem Jewish people have with the Trinity is a by-product of the false division that arose between Judaism and Christianity early on That New Testament writers speak of each member of the Trinity while also driving home the point of one God Many examples of Israel’s forefathers experiencing God in the form of a man The fascinating account of Abraham’s visit with God The religious leaders of Jesus’ day thought they were obeying the Torah when they picked up stones against Him Encouragement to Jewish listeners to set aside one assumption and Christian listeners to set aside another. There’s a lot more going on in the Scriptures that’s there to see Words you might learn in this episode Shema Israel, echad, Malach Adonai, Yod-Hey-Vav-Hey (YHWH, or Yahweh), ruach/Ruach, devar, synoptic gospels, vay yerah Yod-Hey-Vav-Hey, adam (man)   Scriptures referenced in this episode Deuteronomy 6:4, Genesis 1:2, Exodus 3:2, Genesis 18:1–33, Galatians 1:1, 2 Peter 1:17, 1 Corinthians 8:6, James 2:19, John 1:14, John 1:18, Genesis 3:8, Joshua 5:13–15, Judges 13:2–25, John 8:56–59, 1 Samuel 3, Psalm 33:4, Jeremiah 1:13, Colossians 1:15, John 17, John 19:26–27, Isaiah 6, Ezekiel 1, Deuteronomy 13:1–5, John 11:49–50, Revelation 13:8, 2 Timothy 3:5, Acts 26:9–18, Ephesians 4:6, Acts 2, Ezekiel 1:26–28   ◦◦◦   Want a Free Bag of Amazing Coffee? Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co.   Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. If you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks!   Want more discussions more conveniently? You can subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you get your podcasts.   Sharing: It’s nice Don’t keep us all to yourself! Share the podcast with people you know. Let them in on these exciting conversations, and spark some of your own discu

It’s no secret: Jewish people – most of them anyway – don’t believe Jesus is the Messiah. But what are the fundamental Jewish objections to the idea that Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah promised in the Hebrew Scriptures? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra dig into the Bible to dispel misunderstandings and answer the difficulties Jewish people have with Jesus. They show you that encountering objections from your Jewish friends or family doesn’t have to be the end of the conversation. This episode is loaded with Scripture to help you continue the discussion. They cover what they consider to be the Top 5 Jewish objections to Jesus: Jesus is for Gentiles, not Jews If Jesus is the Messiah, why is there no peace on Earth? Isaiah 53 is about Israel, not Jesus Jews believe in one God, but Christians believe in three God alone is our Savior, so we don’t need Jesus Along the way, you’ll learn: A crucial precursor to talking to a Jewish person about Jesus A common mistake Christians make that actually reinforces a serious Jewish misunderstanding How to engage in a vastly different conversation than most Jewish people have ever had with a Christian Two Messiahs or two manifestations? The importance of understanding the difference between Messiah ben David and Messiah ben Joseph Two kinds of peace, and the one the Messiah had to bring first Why Isaiah 53 can’t be about Israel The difference between three Gods and three expressions of Him Evidence of the Trinity in the Hebrew Scriptures Ezra urges that if you get only one thing from this episode, get this: As a Gentile, you’re not there to invite a Jewish person to convert to another religion and receive your Savior. You’re there to share how the God of Israel brought you into His family through the Messiah sent to the Jewish people first. Words you might learn Dual Covenant Theology, mitzvot, Yeshua ben David, Messiah ben David, Messiah ben Yosef, ecclesia, anti-missionary, Shema Yisrael, Adonai Eloheinu, Adonai echad, b’yachad, Yeshua Scriptures referenced Acts 4:12, Romans 3:10, Psalm 14:1, Ecclesiastes 7:20, Ruth 1:16, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 53, John 1:29 and 36, Romans 1:16, Matthew 15:24, Zechariah 14:8, Matthew 20:28, Isaiah 53:1–5, Matthew 22:44, Luke 11:2, 2 Corinthians 4:4, Ephesians 2:8–9, Jeremiah 1:15, Psalm 48:1–2, Exodus 4:22, Isaiah 10:32, Lamentations 3:22, Ezekiel 6:8, Isaiah 53:9, Psalm 133:1, Genesis 1:2, Jeremiah 31:9, Genesis 32:22–30, John 10:11, John 10:29–31, Isaiah 9:6 Other episodes mentioned Episode 36 – Problems with the Church Replacing Israel Episode 37 – Does the Bible Say the Church is the New Israel? Episode 40 – How to Share Jesus with a Jewish Friend – Awkward but Important Episode 43 (following this episode) – Shema Israel – Jewish Problems with the Trinity ◦◦◦ Want a Free Bag of Amazing Coffee? Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. If you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any am

Yeah, it can be uncomfortable. Intimidating? Maybe. Awkward? Probably. But seriously, it’s super important. Like, eternity-important. So, Ezra and Carly are here to help you understand some things that will make talking about Jesus with a Jewish friend easier for you and more meaningful for your friend. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, they talk about: The misconception that Jews don’t need Jesus Where to start when it comes to talking with a Jewish friend about Jesus Sharing the Gospel in the context of the Jewish Bible Words that will likely be misunderstood and terminology to use to help make the connection Sharing your faith testimony – is that good, relevant or what? Praying about the person and the conversation Along the way During the conversation, they share indispensable information about: An even bigger misconception that Jews don’t need a Redeemer The Jewish mindset given there is no Temple to carry out the biblically prescribed method of atonement Encouragement to dig into the Bible and discover some of the many other Messianic prophecies What’s even more important than being sensitive to terminology A challenge Ezra gives – try it for a week and see what happens Words you might learn in this episode Ben Adam, Tanakh, Yeshua, Yeshu, mitzvah Scriptures referenced in this episode Genesis 3:15, Genesis 1–3, Romans 1:16, Deuteronomy 18:15, Acts 3:22, Isaiah chapter 53, Daniel 9:26, Revelation 12:11, Matthew 15:28, Luke 24:27, Haggai 2:7, Romans 11:25–26 ◦◦◦ You Could Win a Free Bag of Ethiopian Coffee Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. If you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks! Want more discussions more conveniently? You can subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you get your podcasts. Sharing: It’s nice Don’t keep us all to yourself! Share the podcast with people you know. Let them in on these exciting conversations, and spark some of your own discussions among friends. Leaving a review about A Jew and A Gentile Discuss will also help spread the word to others about the podcast. Follow and Engage Keep up with us by following and engaging with us on social media under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Do you have a comment or question? We’d love to hear from you! Please leave us some feedback or send in your questions for us to consider for future episodes.   This podcast is a production of Jewish Voice Ministries International.

Maybe you’ve heard about it, maybe not. It’s called “aliyah,” and Jewish people from all over the world are doing it. What’s up with that?  Immigration is nothing new. Some people shift about the world, permanently making a new country their home. But there’s something unique about immigration to Israel. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra fill you in on the fascinating phenomenon of aliyah, Jewish immigration to Israel. They discuss: What the Hebrew word aliyah means and where the concept came from How aliyah is related to biblical references to God scattering the Jewish people Qualifications for immigration to Israel If Jewish believers in Jesus can immigrate to Israel Where Jewish people are coming from to make Israel their home If non-Jewish people who love Israel can immigrate there Why it’s important for listeners to understand and care about aliyah Along the way As they discuss, Ezra shares interesting details and sidenotes that give you a fuller understanding of all things aliyah, including: Wait, what? Israel doesn’t have a constitution? What going to the ancient Temple and reading a Torah passage in synagogue today have in common God’s faithfulness to His covenant and promises The job descriptions of the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah How a person’s Jewishness is determined for immigration to Israel Israel’s Supreme Court and their involvement in aliyah decisions A curious aspect about the Israeli definition of “missionary” Why Orthodox Jews consider Messianic Jews a threat Words you might learn in this episode Aliyah, “the Jewish State,” Zionist leaders, parashiot, parasha, “making aliyah,” diaspora, Messianic Jews, olim Scriptures referenced in this episode Genesis 17:8, Genesis 26:1–6, Genesis 28:10–15, 2 Timothy 2:13, Jeremiah 29:14   ◦◦◦   Want more discussions? You can subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you get your podcasts. Win a Free Bag of Amazing Coffee Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of some of the finest Ethiopian coffee in the world from Lost Tribes Coffee Co. Do you like what you hear? You know, the only way we can continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. If you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Thanks! Sharing: It’s nice Don’t keep us all to yourself! Share the podcast with people you know. Let them in on these exciting conversations, and spark some of your own discussions among friends. Leaving a review about A Jew and A Gentile Discuss will also help spread the word to others about the podcast. Follow and Engage Keep up with us by following and engaging with us on social media under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Do you have a comment or question? We’d love to hear from you! Pl

Pentecost? Is that the thing in Acts chapter 2 with the rushing wind, the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues?   Well, they’re not going to debate the subject of speaking in tongues, but they are revealing some pretty cool things about how the day of Pentecost – when God gave the Holy Spirit – relates to the Jewish Feast of Shavuot.   Whether you’re Jewish or Gentile, there are things in today’s episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss that you probably didn’t know. They cover:  What the word Pentecost means  Why Pentecost is undercelebrated  What Shavuot is and how it’s observed today  How Pentecost and the Jewish Feast of Shavuot are related  Thoughts about Christians celebrating Shavuot  Along the way, you’ll learn other tidbits like:  Carly’s memories of Pentecost growing up  How Ezra and his wife observe Shavuot  The agricultural side of Shavuot

Here we all are, just trying to love God, study the Bible and understand His Word, right? Then – bam – people come up with vastly different interpretations about what it says. Some disagreements may be over small matters. Then others, well, they can have a huge impact on our understanding of really significant things.   In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra take a look at three key Scriptures that are often taken out of context to support the incorrect idea of Replacement Theology:   Matthew 21:43, which says that the kingdom of Heaven will be taken away from those who don’t bear fruit and given to those who do  Romans 1:16, about the Gospel being “to the Jew first,” which some say reflects nothing more than Paul’s preaching schedule  Luke 21:24, which speaks of Jerusalem being trampled by the Gentiles   By digging into the fuller context of these verses, you’ll see why Replacement Theology is actually not biblical.  Along the way  Intermingled throughout the conversation, you’ll also learn:  A refresher of what Replacement Theology is  The different God-ordained roles of Jewish Believers and Christians

Out with the old and in with the new? Some would say so, but in this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra explain the errors and dangers in the notion that the New Testament Church somehow replaces God’s covenant with Israel. In this first of a two-part series, they address: What Replacement Theology is  How to recognize it when you hear it  Dangers of Replacement Theology  The subtle trouble with Pope Francis’ seemingly positive statement toward the Jewish people several years ago  Whether or not Christians can dismiss the Old Testament in sole favor of the New  Along the way  During their conversation, they also touch on such relevant sidenotes such as:   How word choice matters, and the erroneous message conveyed by such wording as “convert” and “become a Christian”  How the Holocaust and anti-Semitism play into

You know you have them – questions about Judaism that you don’t feel comfortable asking your Jewish friends or family. Well, never fear – in this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly goes there for you. Give a listen as she asks Ezra the personal, the awkward and the curious things you want to know about Jewish customs. Ezra and Carly will cover:  The kosher diet  Circumcision  Jewish thoughts about tattoos  The Ultra-Orthodox “look” – the beards, the hair, the tassels  Along the way  This is a fascinating discussion about Jewish things you may have thought seemed odd, or different. During the conversation, you’ll gain a deeper understanding about   God’s laws making scientific sense  His setting apart the Jewish people as His own  Where the kosher tradition of never mixing dairy and meat comes from  Why some Messianic Jews eat kosher while others don’t  Why

What are the two topics that society says to avoid if you want to have a peaceful dinner with your extended family? Politics and faith. Well, in this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, co-hosts Carly Berna and Ezra Benjamin welcome Aaron Baer to talk about both. Why? Because it’s important stuff, and as Ezra puts it, hey, “we like to discuss!” We value our right to vote, and, if we’re diligent, we perceive it as a serious responsibility. But how many of us are willing to get in the trenches and fight the fights? Thank the Lord some Believers do just that. Aaron Baer is one of them. Aaron is the CEO of Citizens for Community Values (CCV), Ohio’s largest Christian public policy organization. He joins A Jew and A Gentile Discuss to share what it’s like to be a Jewish Believer and in the thick of things politically. Aaron answers questions about: How he got involved in politics His background of coming to faith in Jesus from his Jewish background What it’s like being a committed Believer in the middle of American politics How he engages people on the other side of the political aisle who want to play by different rules How his support of Israel comes to bear in his day-to-day political life Will the U.S. remain a nation of Judeo-Christian values? How his perspective as a Jewish Believer affects his thinking and involvement with politics Navigating hot button issues like abortion while staying true to his convictions Raising a family as a Jewish Believer married to a Gentile Christian Advice for other couples where one is a Jewish Believer and one a Gentile Believer What faith-based issue should Americans be paying attention to regarding the upcoming 2020 elections Where to start if you feel a tug on your own heart to get involved in your own town but are turned off by the drama or intimidated by the process of breaking into the system Along the way, you’ll hear Aaron’s take on: an explicit call upon the Church right now; the one question that every divisive issue in our culture today boils down to; the value of visiting Israel; and what’s at stake if Christians don’t come out of their bubble to recognize what’s going on in society today. Words you might learn in this episode Ohio’s Citizens for Community Values, Ohio’s Church Ambassador Network, AIPAC, Bostock Supreme Court case, secular Jews, Obergefell same-sex marriage decision, Chanukah bush For more conversations around intriguing, relevant topics, check out additional episodes of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you listen to your podcasts or right here at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org.

The Sabbath: It’s the fourth commandment, but is it relevant today? Is it Saturday, or did it change to Sunday after Jesus’ resurrection? And are Jewish people really forbidden to drive a car and turn on a light switch on the Sabbath? What exactly is the Sabbath, and are we obligated to observe it?   In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra tackle the subject of Shabbat, the Hebrew word for Sabbath, and reveal their different interpretations of it. They start by explaining the basic concept of the Sabbath, what it means and its biblical origin.   Carly asks why Jewish people pick and choose what to obey, citing strict observance of Shabbat but not other laws, particularly the sacrifices. And Ezra wonders why Christians feel obliged to follow the 10 Commandments but not necessarily the one about Shabbat.   You’ll hear Ezra’s reasons for his literal interpretation that, for Jewish people, Shabbat means Saturday and how it is also a covenant between God and the Jewish people.   Carly presents the idea that Jesus treated the Sabbath differently than the other nine commandments ­ – working, healing, and gleaning on Shabbat – and that it was intended to foreshadow the rest we find in Jesus. Ezra reveals his understanding of Jesus’ interactions with the Pharisees regarding the Sabbath.   As they discuss, you’ll also hear about: Why it’s OK for Believers to disagree about scriptural interpretations of the Sabbath Why Jewish people are not to drive or use electricity on Shabbat Various degrees of observance among Jewish people Whether observing the Sabbath on another day is OK 3 essential reasons for Jewish people observing Shabbat Why a Jewish day starts at sundown and what that means to Sabbath observance The first thing God called holy Ways to observe a Sabbath day of rest, what to do, what not to do The difference between spending the day doing things that build God’s kingdom or our own   You’ll hear about Carly’s first experience of a Jewish Shabbat, her expectations and surprises. Ezra explains how his family observed Shabbat when he was growing up. He also shares a personal story of burnout and how it affected his relationship with God and his understanding of the Sabbath.   In today’s smart-phone world, the whole concept of rest meets with friction as everyone expects you to be available 24/7. Despite Ezra and Carly’s disagreements, you’ll see how this Jew and this Gentile have come to view Shabbat as an invitation from God and choose to make it a priority.   They share their favorite Shabbat traditions, and Carly challenges listeners to start incorporating some period of rest into their weekly rhythms to see how God multiplies their time. Ezra encourages those of us concerned about getting everything done to consider the idea that we can accomplish more in six days through God’s strength than we can in seven days using our own.   Words you may learn in this episode: Shabbat, Sabado, Torah, Messianic Jewish congregation, m’kadesh, kadosh, rabbi, Le Chaim!, balagan, challah bread   Scriptures referenced in this episode: Exodus 20:8–10a, Genesis 2:2–3, Exodus 31:16–17, Colossians 2:16–17, Matthew 11:28, Matthew 12:1–14, Matthew 5:17–18, Romans 12:1, John 4:6

How do you take the Gospel to other cultures and countries and then train indigenous leaders to tend their flocks without expecting them to look, think and worship like you do? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, co-hosts Carly Berna and Ezra Benjamin welcome special guest Troy Wallace for some experienced insight into the subject of indigenous Jewish ministry. Troy is Vice President of Congregation and Leadership Development at Jewish Voice Ministries International.   And here’s an interesting fact: Troy’s not Jewish. Huh? He plants Messianic Jewish congregations and trains Messianic Jewish leaders, but he’s not Jewish himself? Yep, and when you hear his unique background, family and qualifications – especially as Carly puts him on the hot seat about that very question – you’ll see why Jewish people are willing to have him minister to them.  Interview questions include:  What is the Messianic Movement, and what is a Messianic Jewish community?  What does a Messianic Jewish congregation in America look like?  How would you find a Messianic Jewish congregation, and are Gentiles welcome to attend?  What does a Messianic Jewish congregation in Africa look like?  Can Jewish Believers just go to one of the great existing Christian churches like the rest of us? Why go to all the trouble of planting Messianic congregations and training leaders?  How are we to think about a Messianic Jewish expression of faith in the context of cultures very different from the primarily European or Ashkenazi Jewish culture we know here in America?  How did Jewish Voice find these African Jewish communities? How do you know they’re Jewish?  What right does Troy, as a non-Jew, have to minister to and instruct Jewish people in Messianic Jewish practices?

Ever driven by a Jewish friend’s house sometime in the fall, maybe October? If you have, you may have wondered, What’s with that funky structure in their yard with plants thrown on top and fruit hanging from it? And as a Christian, when you see Jewish Believers in Jesus do the same, you might think, Wait, is that in the Bible? Well, as a matter of fact, it is. In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Ezra and Carly talk about the Jewish Feast of Sukkot, or the Feast of Tabernacles, which is the culminating celebration of the cluster of three Jewish holidays known as the Fall Feasts. This episode is #3 of a three-part series. They start with a brief summary of the first two Feasts, but if you haven’t listened to the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur episodes, be sure to do so. There’s lots of good stuff in them. So, what does “Dinner Under the Stars” have to do with Sukkot? Ezra explains it, and, to give you a hint: It has to do with the biblical reason for the leafy-branched roof on the “sukkah” Jewish people build every Feast of Tabernacles. Carly asks Ezra: Why Christians should learn about the Jewish Fall Feasts Explain about Sukkot’s building of little huts and hanging fruit inside them What does Sukkot have to do with the word “tabernacle” used in John 1:14, which says, “the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us”? How does Sukkot relate to the other Fall Feasts of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur? Is there anything special between Yom Kippur and Sukkot like there is between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur? Do Christians need to observe Sukkot? What is the significance of Jesus celebrating Sukkot? How do you, as a Jewish Believer, observe Sukkot? Do you actually sleep in your sukkah? How Christians can celebrate Sukkot The bottom-line takeaways for Christians about Sukkot In this episode, you’ll also hear the wise encouragement to look behind traditions and stereotypical things you may know about Jewish holidays – which could be cultural or family-specific – and dig for the deeper meaning that’s behind them. They discuss the key things that the Feast of Sukkot brings to remembrance for Jewish people, why using a tent or covering your sukkah with a tarp is a no-no, and good reasons to ask your Jewish friend or relative if you could hang out with them in the sukkah. Ezra brings up an intriguing Bible verse that could be considered a proof-text for why Christians should care about the biblical Feasts. He also sheds light on the Jewish context from which Jesus invited all who are thirsty to come to Him for living water. The conversation also includes encouragement for those who feel like they’ve been walking through the wilderness. Words you might learn in this episode: Moadim, Sukkah, bet, bayit, Chag Sukkot

No, they’re not talking about James Bond and how he repeatedly lives through harrowing situations to “die another day.” In this episode of A Jew & A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk about the intriguing Jewish mindset on the holiest day of the Jewish year: Yom Kippur or the Day of Atonement. Yom Kippur is a solemn day of denying oneself for the sake of focusing on God. This annual holiday is another day of intentional dying to self.    Carly and Ezra are in the middle of a three-part series as they talk about Yom Kippur, the second of the Jewish Fall Feasts. Carly, the Gentile of the two, asks Ezra some key questions about this solemn holiday that really isn’t a “feast” at all.  What is Yom Kippur?  Where do we find this Jewish Feast in the Bible?  When is Yom Kippur 2020, and what happens between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur?  Why do you, as a Jewish believer in Jesus, still observe Yom Kippur when you know Jesus came to atone for your sins?  Do Christians need to observe Yom Kippur?  Did Jesus observe Yom Kippur?  What does Jewish observance look like today?  If Christians wanted to observe Yom Kippur, how would they do that?  What would you say is the main takeaway for a Christian about Yom Kippur?  What’s your most memorable Yom Kippur moment?  E

Like Christianity, Judaism has special holidays, and we are in the season of three vital Jewish holidays known as the Fall Feasts. In this episode of A Jew & A Gentile Discuss, we get an overview of the holidays on the Jewish calendar, and then Carly and Ezra talk about the first of the Fall Feasts, Rosh Hashanah. This episode is the first of a three-part series covering each of the Fall Feasts. If you’ve ever been curious about Jewish holidays, what they mean and how they’re celebrated, you’re in the right place to find out about them. And, if you already understand a bit about the Fall Feasts, you’re bound to discover things you never knew before. Either way, this will be an excellent series for you. Carly dives right in to ask: What exactly is Rosh Hashanah? What’s a shofar, and how is it related to Rosh Hashanah? How many times are you supposed to blow a shofar on Rosh Hashanah? Can anyone blow the shofar? Is Rosh Hashanah only in the Old Testament? Do we know if Jesus celebrated Rosh Hashanah? What are the 30 days of repentance associated with Rosh Hashanah? What are the 10 Days of Awe? Do Christians need to celebrate Rosh Hashanah? If a Christian wanted to celebrate, how could they do that, and how can they honor Jewish friends and family at Rosh Hashanah? What’s the bottom-line take away from Rosh Hashanah? As Ezra answers, you’ll also learn: how Rosh Hashanah pertains to the End Times, the significance of the shofar as a wake-up call, and how the Jewish mindset of the New Year differs from the typical celebration of January 1st. They even dive into a discussion about the Jewish belief that God keeps two books and the ultimate uncertainty every Jewish person has at the end of Rosh Hashanah regarding themselves. As a bonus, Ezra answers an audience question to reveal his favorite Rosh Hashanah tradition. Words you might learn in this episode: Rosh Hashanah, shofar, rosh, shanah, Yom Kippur, Yom haKippurim, moad, moadim, zeman, l’zeman hazeh, Shana Tova, Yom Teruah Look for the next episodes of this three-part series, when Ezra and Carly will talk about Yom Kippur and Sukkot, or the Feast of Tabernacles. Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts or go to www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org for more information. We’d love to hear from you! So, leave us some feedback or send in your questions for us to consider for future episodes.

In this foundational episode, Ezra and Carly discuss Messianic Judaism and Christianity and identify some of the key ways Messianic Judaism differs from Christianity and why. They unpack the topic that some listeners might be wondering about ­– “Why use different names? Aren’t we all Christians?” – to give a fuller understanding of what Messianic Judaism is and what it isn’t. Using a question and answer format, Ezra and Carly ask each other questions coming from their own perspective and aimed at the other’s background and faith practices. Their discussion includes: Carly defines Christianity Ezra defines Messianic Judaism Is Messianic Judaism for all people or only for Jews? Similarities and the major differences in practices Are Messianic Jews trying to convert Christians to become Jews? Are Christians trying to convert Jews into Christians? What about a Messianic Jewish worship service would be the strangest thing to me as a Christian? And vice versa? Does Messianic Judaism do missions like the Church does? What does the outreach ministry of a Messianic Jewish congregation look like? Are there denominations in Messianic Judaism like there are in the Christian Church? Carly also asks Ezra how he defines himself when people ask him about his religion, which gets at the heart of why Messianic Jews don’t call themselves Christians. They also discuss how the “good news” is an Old Testament concept that appears in Scripture long before the New Testament. Ezra explains how Messianic Judaism typically presents the Gospel in a way that “fills in some blanks” of the way many Christians share it.   You’ll also learn Ezra’s enlightening take on when “Messianic Judaism” really started. Ending on a light, fun note, Carly and Ezra ask each other what their favorite holiday is on the other’s religious calendar. Words you might learn in this episode: protoevangelion, seed, besora, evangelion, holy one, Mashiach, Shabbat, Shavuot, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Shema, Judaizing, convert, missiology, Baruch haba b’shem Adonai, hosanna, hoshiana, hamantashen If you want to hear more from A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, subscribe to the podcast anywhere you get your podcast content or go to www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org. And we’d love to hear from you. Leave us feedback. Ask us questions. We want to improve, and we want to hear what topics you want to explore as someone who is searching for things related to Israel and the Jewish people. Go to www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, where there’s a place for you to get in touch.

A little understanding goes a long way. Christians may be surprised at the meaning that some of their everyday Christian words and symbols can carry for the average Jewish person. In this episode of A Jew & A Gentile Discuss, Ezra grills Carly with some common misconceptions Jewish people have about Christians. Throughout the conversation, they reveal some ways Christians may be unknowingly shutting down or offending a Jewish person. When we – on both sides – seek understanding, we can have meaningful conversations with each other. It’s Carly’s turn to be on the hot seat while Ezra asks her to address many misconceptions, such as: Christians can bless Israel and still believe that Jewish people don’t need the Gospel/Jesus because they have their own way. If a Christian befriends a Jewish person, it’s only to convert them. The image of the cross and what it represents are inherently threatening to a Jewish person Christians worship three gods, whereas Jewish people worship only one The Church is inherently anti-Semitic Christians have their own Bible Christian Zionism sees Jews as pawns on an End-Time chessboard He also asks Carly to answer a few questions Jewish people have of Christians: Why do Christians want to use Jewish symbols – such as the Star of David, prayer shawls, chanukiahs, and the Israeli flag? What’s the biggest misperception people have of you as a Christian? They discuss what it means to bless someone and give insight into how Jewish people typically interpret words like “convert,” “cross,” and “become a Christian.” They also bring up tips for engaging in meaningful conversations with Jewish friends and family with sensitivity and a Bible-reading challenge to listeners. Words you might learn – or gain new insight about – in this episode: Bless, convert, the cross, Shema, trinity, echad, nations, ethnos, proton, Tanakh, Nevi’im, Ketuvim, New Testament/New Covenant, Christian Zionism, chanukiah Tune in for new episodes wherever you listen to podcasts or go to www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org for more information. Leave us some feedback – we’d love to hear from you.

Why are we doing this podcast? Partially, it’s because we want to understand and talk about what brings us together. But, it’s also to address the distinctions within the body of Believers we commonly refer to as the Church. Jesus prayed for unity, not uniformity. So, we also want to talk openly about what distinguishes us from one another. We also want to talk about current events, headlines we’re seeing in what really does feel like unprecedented times, and what God’s doing with Israel and the Jewish people around the world. In this first full-length episode of A Jew & A Gentile Discuss, Carly puts Ezra on the hot seat to answer questions relating to common misconceptions and preconceived notions that Christians might have about Jewish people and Messianic Jews. Subjects included in this episode are: Can you be Jewish and believe in Jesus? What do Jewish people think about Jesus? Who do they think He is? Can you bless Israel while agreeing/believing that Jewish people don’t need the Gospel, don’t need Jesus, but have their own way to salvation? Does every Jewish person or Messianic Jew believe the same things Do all Jewish people study and know the Torah? What makes someone Jewish? How is Jewish identity passed on? How does Israel accept someone as eligible for “aliyah” or immigration as a Jew? The Jews are called God’s Chosen People; are they better than everyone else? There are over 600 commandments in the Scriptures: do the Jews have to follow all of them still today? If you have Jewish heritage, is your religion automatically Jewish? Do most Jews live primarily in Europe, Israel and North America? Bonus Question: Did Jesus have a bar mitzvah? Ezra often gives what he jokes are typical Jewish answers of “Yes and no” before expounding with insights of the nuances and conditions. With touches of Jewish history and context, he provides an understanding of Jewish thought and the historical baggage that comes with Jewish disbelief in Jesus. He notes how important this understanding is for the Christian listener who carries a burden to share the Gospel with Jewish friends and relatives. Ezra reveals through Scripture that there’s no middle ground when it comes to belief about Jesus and how political correctness fails the less stringently religious who attempt to take it. Words you might learn in this episode: Messianic Jew, meshugenah, Yeshua/yeshua, dual-covenant theology, Torah, bar/bat mitzvah, aliyah, rabbinic Judaism, mitzvot. Tune in this week wherever you listen to podcasts or go to www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org for more information.

Ezra Benjamin and Carly Berna, your hosts of the brand-new A Jew & A Gentile Discuss podcast, introduce themselves and explain what makes this podcast so different. Ezra is the Jewish half of the conversation. He and his family celebrate Jewish holidays, including Chanukah and Passover. After earning a degree in Business and Finance, Ezra worked for a faith-based non-profit in the Chicagoland area. When he volunteered on a Medical Outreach with Jewish Voice Ministries International, Ezra sensed God calling him to make a neglected aspect in the Christian non-profit world a priority in his life: Jewish ministry. Ezra began working for Jewish Voice in 2010 and has spent the last decade leading 40-some Medical Outreaches to the “Lost Tribes of Israel” living in Central Asia, India, Africa and beyond. Carly is a Gentile Christian who celebrates Christmas and Easter. She’s been working for Jewish Voice for over seven years in a role that connects people who care about the mission of Jewish Voice – which is to transform lives and see all Israel saved – to the organization so they can live out their mission through what we’re doing. Carly earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in Business. She worked at a Phoenix-area non-profit and tried her hand at starting her own business. She is currently in seminary because she loves learning. In this 8-minute introductory episode of A Jew & A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra share their common ground as believers in Jesus as the Messiah and let you know what you can expect from the podcast.  Highlights include: Helping you understand what’s going on in the world from a biblical worldview Relevant topics of today and what they have to do with the Bible and tenets of our faith The backgrounds of Christianity and Messianic Judaism and what they mean for us today Equipping you with tools to better understand the Christians and Jewish people in your life Presenting opportunities to get involved in what God is doing with Israel and the Jewish people around the world While discussing the podcast’s purposes, Ezra and Carly give you a taste of what’s to come on A Jew & A Gentile Discuss as they break out to talk about the meaning of Romans 1:16 and it’s often overlooked phrase declaring the Gospel is “to the Jew first.” Ezra brings out the Greek concept of “necessary firstness.” As you listen to this short introductory episode, you’ll get a taste of what’s to come in future episodes. For more information about A Jew & A Gentile Discuss, go to www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org.

It’s the question that haunts everyone – or at least it should, right? What happens when you die? Believers in Jesus have a Scripture-given confidence that their eternity is secure. But what about Jewish people? What do they believe about the afterlife? Do Jewish people believe there’s a Heaven in the same way Christians do? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk about:  Jewish beliefs about the afterlife  What Jewish people say to comfort those who have lost a loved one  Jewish burial customs  Thoughts about Gentile Believers practicing Jewish mourning rituals  Encouragement to Christians about talking with Jewish people about the afterlife  Along the way  Through the course of the conversation, you’ll also find out some really interesting things about:  Why Ultra-Orthodox Jews in Israel block off their streets on the Sabbath  The difference one letter can make – what a Jewish person means when they call Jesus “Yeshu” rather than Yeshua  The Jewish idea of “the bosom of Abraham” and being “gathered to their fathers”  How belief in a resurrection was not new to the New Testament

Say what? Wait, didn’t baptism start with John the Baptist? Isn’t it a Christian thing? Hang onto your hats, folks – you’re about to discover another surprising element of Christianity that sprang from Jewish roots.     In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk about the Jewish practice of water immersion and how it relates to the New Testament’s concept of baptism. Carly asks Ezra questions to piece together the Old and New Covenant practices, explore what it’s like today and what it means for Messianic Jewish Believers and Christians. Some of the topics they cover include:    Where the concept of water baptism or immersion started  What the baptism of John was about  If baptism is a sign of converting to Christianity  Why Jesus got baptized  The difference between the Jewish idea of immersion and Christian baptism  How a Jewish person today would view Christian baptism  How Jewish Believers in Jesus, or Messianic Jews, see baptism    You’ll also find out if Ezra, a Jewish believer in Jesus, was baptized and some encouragement if you’ve been wondering about being baptized yourself.

It’s the most important week in Christian history. Jesus’ death and resurrection are the cornerstones of faith in Him. What are the events of Jesus’ final week on Earth, and do they line up with the Hebrew Scriptures?    In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, you’ll gain a better understanding of Holy Week and its ties to Old Testament Scriptures. Beginning with Jesus’ Triumphal Entry on Palm Sunday and on through the Last Supper, Garden of Gethsemane and Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, Carly and Ezra examine Holy Week through the Jewish context in which it all occurred.     Along the way  During this compelling discussion, Ezra and Carly touch on several interesting points including,  How Jesus didn’t show up to invent a new religion but to fulfill foundational promises of the Hebrew Scriptures  Inspiring insight into Jesus’ Triumphal Entry on Palm Sunday  What the “offense” or “scandal” of Jesus’ death was  Ezra’s thought-provoking idea about the timeline of Holy Week’s events  Does anyone really know what “Maundy” means? Carly does!  The Passover Seder cup and the four promises of God it represents

Get ready for a fun and meaningful episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss because Carly and Ezra are talking about food traditions surrounding Easter and Passover. It’s Part 2 of a three-part series about the two holidays. If you haven’t heard Part 1 yet, be sure to check out “The Difference Between Passover and Easter.” In this episode, they talk main dishes, bread, desserts and, of course, the curious foods that are part of the Passover observance.     The conversation centers on:  Easter traditions and food memories for both Carly, a Gentile Believer, and Ezra, the son of a Jewish father and Christian mother  The significance of foods for Passover and Easter  The meanings of the various foods on the Passover Seder plate  Where Passover ranks on the “spending-it-with-family” scale  What you can do if you’re a Christian interested in the Passover Seder    Along the way  During their conversation, you’ll also hear about:  Ezra’s favorite Easter food growing up and the strict family rule about it

Passover and Easter. They happen around the same time of year. They’re both defining holidays of their respective faiths.   In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra talk about celebrating the important spring holidays with their families. You’ll hear Carly’s early thoughts about Easter growing up in a Catholic home and Ezra’s memories of both Passover and Easter as a child of a “mixed marriage” having one Jewish and one Christian parent.  Carly digs deeper into the Jewish holiday of Passover by asking Ezra to explain more about:  What “Pesach” is vs. “Passover”  What the Passover Seder is  How Ezra observes Passover today and if he celebrates Easter now that he believes in Jesus  How a Jewish Believer’s Passover observance is different than a non-believing Jewish person’s  Can or should a Christian celebrate the Passover Seder?  Along the way  During the show, you’ll also hear some fascinating and relevant things about:  What the Passover meal compares to on the Christian calendar

Each week, here at A Jew and a Gentile Discuss, we receive emails giving us feedback, suggesting topics and asking questions. And we love it. So, keep ‘em coming. They’ve looked through a bunch of questions and found several semi-related ones for Carly to put to Ezra to answer. Here’s what you’ve asked and what this episode answers: Are the Jewish holidays part of the Mosaic Law, and if so, is it a form of idolatry to observe them? How does a Jewish person explain away Isaiah 53? What is Ezra’s rationale for the statement, “Messianic Jews are not simply Christians”? Ezra, do you feel like you’re an exile in America? Do you believe all Jews are called to return to Jerusalem or just certain tribes? When did Jews stop sacrificing animals for forgiveness of their sins, and what do they do now? What does the phrase “one new man” mean? Along the way Along the way, Ezra touches on some helpful, clarifying bits of information, including: Identifying what “idolatry” means What it’s called when someone tells you, a Gentile Believer, that you need to keep the Mosaic Law The difference between a Jewish obligation unto obedience and an obligation unto righteousness before God A shocking bit of information about Isaiah 53 and Jewish Bibles The reason some Jewish people can read Isaiah 53 and not recognize it’s talking about Jesus What Paul means by “the fullness of the Gentiles” Biblical meaning of Paul’s teachings about there being no difference between Jew and Gentile What Jewish “chosenness” means and doesn’t mean An interesting spinoff quote based on John 3:16 Insight into the meaning of the word “exile” when it comes to Jewish people Words you might learn in this episode Torah, Shavuot, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Chanukah, Purim, Minor Feasts, olam, Mosaic Covenant, Noahic Covenant, Judaizing, Zehra, Ashkenazi, Diaspora, Eretz Israel Scriptures referenced in this episode Romans 7:1–6, Leviticus 23:41, Acts 15, Romans 3:23, Isaiah 53 (whole chapter, especially 53:1, 5, 9–10), Psalm 16:10, Romans 9:10–11, Genesis 12:3, Deuteronomy 4:25, 27, Ezekiel 40–47, Revelation 11, Leviticus 17:11, Hebrews 9:22, 1 Corinthians 5:7, Revelation 13:8, Ephesians 2:14–16, John 17, ◦◦◦ Win! Want a free bag of amazing Ethiopian coffee? Enter our monthly drawing at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org, and you could win a free bag of Lost Tribes Coffee Co. coffee. Support The only way we’re able to continue providing these engaging conversations is through listener support. If you like tuning in to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, would you consider supporting the podcast with a financial gift? Any amount – small or large – helps. Subscribe and Review You can subscribe to A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you get your podcasts. Leaving a review will help others know to tune in too. Share Share the podcast with people you know to spread the word about the podcast. Follow and Engage Follow and engage with us on social media under the handle A Jew and A Gentile Discuss. Feedback

Wait, don’t click away. We know. We know. There are a lot of important “isms” out there, and many are in the news these days. So, why should you give this particular one your attention?   You might think anti-Semitism isn’t really a problem anymore, post-Holocaust, but hang on a sec. Give a listen, and find out more. You’ll probably hear things you’ve never heard before, plus some powerful insights into how good people can be swayed into unfortunate beliefs.  In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly asks Ezra:  The definition of anti-Semitism  Where anti-Semitism stems from  If it still exists today  What the BDS Movement against Israel is  If being anti-Israel is anti-Semitic  Why anti-Semitism is a serious problem  Reasons why a Christian should care about anti-Semitism  What we can do about it  In turn, Ezra asks Carly to share what she has seen of anti-Semitism, and her answer holds a word of caution for

“Lost Tribes of Israel.” Huh? What?    What do we mean by “lost”? There are Jewish people all around the world. Who’s lost? How did they get lost, and what exactly does that even mean, “lost”?

What do costume parties and Bible reading have in common? What about plays and partying? Dice and triangle-shaped cookies? Why, Purim, of course! See how this crazy combination of elements comes together in one of the most fun and happy holidays of the Jewish year.

So, you’ve been listening to him for 24 episodes – or maybe this is your first – and you’re wondering, “Who is this guy, Ezra Benjamin?”…

In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra conclude their conversation with Jonathan Bernis, President and CEO of Jewish Voice…

First, he was Jewish. Then he became a Jewish Believer in Jesus. And today, Jonathan Bernis is the President and CEO of Jewish Voice Ministries…

You’re a Christian, settled in your faith and the church you attend. But you just discovered something you never realized before – you have a Jewish background.   Wait,…

He’s funny. He’s unconventional. He’s Rabbi Matt Rosenberg of “Restoration,” a Messianic fellowship in Seattle, Washington, that seeks to unite Jews and Gentiles into one worship community. …

Rabbi Seth Klayman joins Ezra and Carly as they discuss similarities and differences between a Messianic congregation and a church.

Ahh, the New Year! A fresh start. A clean slate. Leaving the old behind and stepping out into the open landscape of a new year.…

Ezra’s on top of his game with his quick wit in this holiday episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss as he interjects funny…

It’s “the most wonderful time of year,” and both Christians and Jewish people enjoy the winter holiday season. This episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss is informative, personal and oh-so relevant. And we can almost guarantee that you’ll be surprised at some of the things you’ll learn. Carly and Ezra ask each other about their holiday impressions, understandings and traditions growing up and how things changed after coming to faith in Jesus as the Messiah. Then, Carly digs deeper to understand the Jewish holiday of Chanukah and how Jewish people view Christmas, including: Jewish thought about when Jesus was born If Chanukah is in the Bible Why some Messianic Jews don’t celebrate Christmas now If Christians should celebrate Chanukah What about Christmas caroling at a Jewish person’s home? Along the Way In the course of the discussion, you’ll also hear what Chanukah is all about and how Christmas and Chanukah “have everything to do with each other.” You’ll learn some famous Christmas songs written by Jewish people. (You read that right.) Ezra reveals some perspectives, perhaps commonly but secretly held by Jewish people, about this “most wonderful time of year” and their quasi-inclusion in it. You’ll hear how, while sensitivity is essential, apologizing for sharing the Gospel with Jewish people reaffirms a critical misunderstanding among them. Ezra and Carly also cover some questions Christians might have about the season and engaging across the divide between Jewish people and Christians, including: What’s the best way to engage with my Jewish neighbor during Chanukah? Would inviting a Jewish person to a Christmas play be offensive? Do Jewish people invite non-Jews over for Chanukah celebrations? Words You Might Learn in This Episode Chanukiah, Maccabees, the town of Modiin, shlep/shlepped, latkes, Ashkenazi, Sephardic, sufganiyot, moedim/moed Scriptures Referenced in This Episode John 10:22, Genesis 12:3, Matthew 25:40

They seem like simple questions. Who is Jewish? Who is Israeli? How many Jewish people are there in the world? Pretty easy to answer, right? Welllll…   As Ezra points out the old Jewish saying, “Where you have two Jewish people, you’ll have three opinions,” you see that some answers aren’t as simple as you’d expect. (And that’s what makes this podcast so awesome; we take the time to explain all that stuff in a way you can grasp it!)  This episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss is the third of a three-part series unpacking the depths of meaning behind the little word “Israel.” If you haven’t listened to Parts 1 and 2, you’ll want to hear those too. Part 1 provides an excellent, introductory overview of the series, and Part 2 dives into the subjects of the Land of Israel and the State of Israel.  In Part 3, along with the “not-as-simple-as-you-think questions” mentioned above, Carly challenges Ezra with additional inquiries, such as:  Define some of the different subs-communities of Jewish people  Is the term “Jew” offensive to Jewish people?  Where are Jewish people primarily living in the world, including some places we may have never heard of?  Can you become Jewish?

It’s complicated, that’s for sure. But, in Part 2 of their series on Israel – that little word loaded with meaning – Carly and Ezra simplify and make a lot of things clearer as they dive deeper into Israel as both land and state. They tackle some of the controversies, land disputes and obstacles to resolving certain conflicts with the Palestinians in the region.  In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly asks Ezra to explain:  The difference between the phrases “Land of Israel” and “State of Israel”  What the West Bank is and the conflict over it  Why there’s a wall around certain Palestinian areas of Israel  The one-state and two-state solutions  The meaning of the phrase “Land Promise”  If the modern State of Israel is the fulfillment of Bible prophecy  Israel’s form of government   If any Jewish person can become a citizen of Israel  Along the way, they also discuss

Hold on a minute. Isn’t Israel a country? What do you mean by “land” and “people”? In this first of a three-part series of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra discuss what the word “Israel” encompasses.   Coming from their two different backgrounds, each has their own questions for the other. Ezra asks Carly to explain what “Israel” and “standing with Israel” meant to her as a Gentile Christian before working in Jewish ministry. He also asks what stood in her way of learning more about Israel and what she’s done in recent years to stay informed.  Carly asks Ezra:  Why should Israel be on my radar as a Christian?  Is caring about Israel in the same category as caring about the other things God tells us to care about?  What does it really mean to care about Israel?  Who or what is Israel? What’s the difference between the land and the people?  What’s the West Bank, and what’s the dispute about it?  Where did the conflict in the Middle E

Wait, what? Isn’t Thanksgiving about Pilgrims and discovering America? In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, Carly and Ezra chat about Thanksgiving’s historical and national origins and bring out surprising information tying the holiday to Jewish roots. You’ll also hear each of their favorite Thanksgiving traditions and some age-old Yiddish wisdom of Ezra’s grandma. Plus, you’ll learn:  Possible passengers on Christopher Columbus’ fleet of ships  Pilgrim and Puritan ties to Judaism  How the Feast of Sukkot parallels with Thanksgiving  Why President Washington declared a national day of Thanksgiving and later, why President Lincoln reiterated it with new meaning  How a funny play on words in the modern Hebrew language ties turkey to giving thanks  How giving thanks is foundational in both Jewish and Christian thought  An enlightening take on understanding the will of God for our lives  Encouragement to return to being people of thanksgiving and fundamental reasons we have to be thankful regardless of what may be going on around us  Making thanksgiving the posture of our hearts every day  Words you might learn in this episode  Cristobol Colon, Maimonides, Mishnah, Sukkot, chicken of India,

There’s still some dust in the air, with continued counting, lawsuits and concerns of ballot fraud, but it appears the next President of the United States will be Joe Biden.   Tune in to this episode of A Jew and a Gentile Discuss to hear Carly and Ezra address:  The Jewish response to a Joe Biden win   Joe Biden’s immediate agenda   Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s responses to outgoing President Donald Trump as well as President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris  Topics related to Israel and the Jewish people to pay attention to under a new administration  Overall feelings about democracy and prayer for unity  For more conversations around interesting and relevant topics in our world today, check out additional episodes of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you listen to your podcasts or right here at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org.

No, Carly and Ezra aren’t putting on any political commentator hats for this episode, but they’re here to give you a unique perspective on perhaps the most intense presidential election any of us have ever seen.   Listen to them discuss:  How did Jews in America vote?   Did evangelical Christians vote generally conservative??   Will an undecided US election affect Israel?  How will the outcome affect Israel, and how soon will that impact be felt?   With anti-Semitism ramping up around the world, will the election results curtail or inflame it?   This episode is part two of a three-part series where Carly and Ezra discuss the results of this fiery presidential election and encourage you to display unity in Jesus regardless of your political views.  And be sure and watch for part three where they will discuss any further developments and impact from the election results.  For more conversations around intriguing, relevant topics, check out additional episodes of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss wherever you listen to your podcasts or right here at www.ajewandagentilediscuss.org.

What is at the top of everyone’s mind in the United States right now (besides the pandemic)? The presidential election, of course! And we wouldn’t want to miss hearing a Jew and a Gentile discuss politics! In this episode of A Jew and A Gentile Discuss, co-hosts Carly Berna and Ezra Benjamin talk about some of the heated topics within the upcoming elections.  They discuss:  General voting behavior of Christians and Jews, including the 2016 elections  Each candidate’s views on:  Israel  Anti-Semitism  Jerusalem  One-state or two-state solutions  The important issues that Ezra and Carly consider when voting, including:  Stewardship  Religious freedoms  Poor/underprivileged policy  Identity issues  Constitutional rights  National security  Judeo–Christian values