Messiah Podcast

The roots of modern Messianic Judaism extend farther back into history than the cultural expression that emerged out of the 1960s. It’s a story of pioneering faith, a few missed opportunities, along with overcoming fierce challenges. Dr. Gershon Nerel is a Jewish believer in Yeshua and a historian who joins Messiah Podcast from the messianic archive center on the outskirts of Jerusalem in Israel. He has spent decades studying the history of Jewish believers in Jesus. His research informs us regarding both the past and the future. Dr. Nerel’s insights challenge us to reconsider how history, identity, and faith intertwine for Jewish believers in Yeshua living in Israel today. 

👉 Key Discussion Points:
► The artifacts, archives, and personal stories that reveal the complex journey of Jewish believers in Yeshua. 
► The rise and fall of key figures like Abram Poljak and the importance of stability and independence in movement growth.
► The impact of political upheavals, such as Operation Mercy, on the survival of Hebrew Christians and Jewish believers in Israel.
► "Messianic Judaism" vs. "Yeshua Judaism" and why the terminology matters.
► The ongoing struggle to reconnect with biblical, independent expression of faith beyond church doctrines and denominational control.
Gershon Nerel is a trailblazing historian with decades of research into Messianic Jewish roots in Israel whose work uncovers the overlooked and often suppressed stories of faith, exile, and revival. Step into the archives with us because the future of Messianic Judaism depends on knowing its past. 

🔖  Chapters
00:00 The History of Messianic Jews in Israel
03:28 Research Journey and Primary Sources
10:33 Establishing the Messianic Jewish Archive
17:11 Key Figures in Messianic Jewish History
24:02 Operation Mercy and it’s generational impact
29:55 Emissaries not Missionaries
34:39 Avram Poljak, A Courageous Pioneer
43:51 The Tragic loss of Abraham's Vineyard
49:56 The Current State of Messianic Judaism in Israel

👉  Resources:
Gershon Nerel’s Research
Books about Jewish Believers in Yeshua
Articles:
https://ffoz.org/messiah/articles/dr-gershon-nerel-speaks-at-the-bram-center
https://ffoz.org/hub/friends/teaching/the-history-of-messianic-jews-in-israel
Messiah Magazine Issue 18
–  Who is Messiah Podcast?  –
Messiah Podcast is a production of First Fruits of Zion (FFOZ), a Messianic Jewish education organization dedicated to reconciling disciples of Yeshua with God's prophetic promises to Israel. 
Messiah Podcast is made possible by the generosity of our First Fruits of Zion Friends. FFOZ Friends help advance our mission while gaining access to exclusive Messianic Jewish teachings and resources. If you want to partner with us in spreading the message of the kingdom to all nations, become an FFOZ Friend today.

Most disciples overlook one of the most profound spiritual opportunities of the year: the Counting of the Omer. Damian Eisner unpacks how this simple, ancient practice transcends tradition and reveals a pathway to inner growth, humility, and divine empowerment. If you’ve ever wondered how biblical festivals like Passover and Shavu’ot connect to your daily walk with God, this episode will reshape that understanding. The calendar provides both reflections of history and strategic moments for transformation.
👉 Key Discussion Points: 
► Come learn the core purpose of counting the Omer. It’s not just counting days but elevating your soul from bondage to sin toward a new level of spiritual maturity.  
► Damian shares insights on how to use this period for self-examination, gratitude, and character refinement. Remember, the process is about you changing (not your neighbor), not checking off a ritual box.  
► Damian offers practical exercises for using this time to intentionally cultivate your character with patience and humility.  
If you are seeking deeper purpose, spiritual discipline, or a fresh perspective on biblical festivals, this episode will provide you with practical steps for transformation. Clear, grounded, and packed with insight, it will help you capitalize on God’s calendar for growth that lasts well beyond the season.  
🔖  Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Counting the Omer 
05:13 The Significance of Barley in Jewish Tradition 
07:09 Counting the Omer for Spiritual Maturity 
14:17 The Omer, Repentance, and Discipleship 
18:47 Interpersonal Improvements 
25:07 Learning from Moses’ Leadership 
32:42 Navigating Difficult Relationships 
37:03 Helping Others Improve 
40:29 Counting the Omer with Gratitude 
46:35 Growth with a Trusted Friend 
👉  Resources: 
► Resource 
BOOKS 
Heart of Moses - https://ffoz.store/products/the-heart-of-moses 
Adam loves Eve - https://ffoz.store/products/adam-loves-eve-book 
ARTICLES 
https://ffoz.org/messiah/articles/christian-pop-and-counting-the-omer 
https://ffoz.org/messiah/articles/counting-the-omer 
https://ffoz.org/messiah/articles/counting-from-passover-to-pentecost 
OMER COUNTER: https://us-east-1.graphassets.com/APqS8y7QATaCvy9gijJ3oz/cmmdrlj129bq006iqmha4rrna?dl=true
–  Who is Messiah Podcast?  –
Messiah Podcast is a production of First Fruits of Zion (FFOZ), a Messianic Jewish education organization dedicated to reconciling disciples of Yeshua with God's prophetic promises to Israel. 
Messiah Podcast is made possible by the generosity of our First Fruits of Zion Friends. FFOZ Friends help advance our mission while gaining access to exclusive Messianic Jewish teachings and resources. If you want to partner with us in spreading the message of the kingdom to all nations, become an FFOZ Friend today.

Have you ever wondered if the ancient practice of observing the Sabbath holds relevance for modern-day followers of Jesus? The Jewish people have been commanded to sanctify the Sabbath day, ceasing from all creative work every week from Friday evening to Saturday night. But what about Gentiles, especially those who follow Jesus? He kept the Sabbath, but what does that mean for disciples from the nations? Our guest today is Ruben Ramos, a Gentile disciple of Jesus who honors the Sabbath every week with his family. He’s here to share how the Sabbath has transformed his life of discipleship, and how you can begin reaping the blessings of engaging with the day God has declared to be holy.
👉 Key Discussion Points:
► Discover how a simple Friday night dinner, rooted in biblical and Jewish tradition, can set the tone for rest, reflection, and spiritual growth. We break down practical ways to incorporate Sabbath rhythms into your busy life, from unplugging electronics and creating sacred time, to cultivating family routines and fostering community. 
► Learn the subtle yet profound ways the Sabbath pries open opportunities for disciple-making, mindfulness, and trust in God's sovereignty.
► Explore the deeper prophetic significance of the Sabbath as a foretaste of the coming kingdom—a time of peace, abundance, and worship where nations gather before God's throne.  
If you’ve ever wondered how to practically and meaningfully engage with God's rest despite the pressures and distractions of modern life, this episode is essential listening. The Sabbath is more than just a day off. It’s a divine tool for discipleship, a preview of eternity, and a pathway to renewed trust and obedience. Start today and discover how a weekly pause can unlock profound spiritual renewal and kingdom anticipation.
👉  Resources:
► FREE: Messiah Magazine #35
► Is Sabbath Just for Jews? 
► Should Christians Keep the Sabbath? 
► Why Did Charlie Kirk Love the Sabbath So Much? 
► A Digital Sabbath Is Exactly What We Need
► From Sabbath to Sabbath
► The Sabbath Breaker
► HaYesod: The Sabbath
–  Who is Messiah Podcast?  –
Messiah Podcast is a production of First Fruits of Zion (FFOZ), a Messianic Jewish education organization dedicated to reconciling disciples of Yeshua with God's prophetic promises to Israel. 
Messiah Podcast is made possible by the generosity of our First Fruits of Zion Friends. FFOZ Friends help advance our mission while gaining access to exclusive Messianic Jewish teachings and resources. If you want to partner with us in spreading the message of the kingdom to all nations, become an FFOZ Friend today.

The Sabbath: Is it observed on Sunday or Saturday? Is it a day of rest, worship, or both? Who is it truly for—Jews, Christians, or everyone? Are the ancient Sabbath laws still relevant today? What insights does the Bible provide? If profound questions like these cross your mind, then join Aaron and Rachel Eby as they delve into these topics, sharing their experiences as a Jewish family observing the traditional Jewish Sabbath every Saturday. Aaron, a senior educator at First Fruits of Zion, and Rachel, a prolific writer for Messiah Online and Messiah Magazine, offer a unique perspective as Jewish followers of Jesus. Together, they guide us through understanding the Sabbath from a Messianic Jewish viewpoint. 
👉 Key Discussion Points:
► In this episode you’ll discover why the Sabbath was sanctified at creation long before the Jewish people existed, and what it truly means for a day to be “holy.” 
► Traditional Jewish Sabbath observance goes beyond just refraining from work and includes the thirty-nine categories of prohibited creative acts. The Ebys explain the purpose behind these detailed boundaries and how this meticulous structure is designed not to be a burden but to deepen your awareness of God's holiness, transforming how you experience time and life itself. 
► The Sabbath serves as a rehearsal for the World to Come, a time to step back from our relentless pursuit of achievement and reconnect with God's eternal promises. Aaron and Rachel share personal insights into how Shabbat fosters community, nurtures family bonds, and cultivates a sense of delight. They discuss suggestions for engaging children and incorporating joy, even amid a busy, screen-saturated culture. They offer encouragement for non-Jews: even small steps like lighting candles or setting aside moments of reflection can infuse life with spiritual meaning and cultural richness. 
This episode isn’t just about understanding a religious practice; it’s about rediscovering a rhythm of life that can profoundly shape your faith, your family, and your worldview. Whether you’re Jewish, exploring the faith, or simply curious about a tradition rooted in divine wisdom, these insights open a path toward sacred time and a deeper connection with the Creator. Don’t miss this invitational journey into the life-changing power of the Sabbath. 
🔖  Chapters
00:00 Significance of the Sabbath
7:18 The Nature of Holiness 
12:20 Changed to Sunday?
18:46 Was Saturday the Original Sabbath?
20:35 Spiritual Growth and the Sabbath 
32:51 Experiential Knowledge
36:39 The Sabbath's Weekly Rhythm
41:03 The Jewish Prohibitions of the Sabbath
54:39 Navigating Shabbat with Children
01:05:14 Advice for Jews and Gentiles
👉  Resources:
► Messiah Magazine #35
►Why Did Charlie Kirk Love the Sabbath So Much? 
► From Sabbath to Sabbath
► HaYesod, The Sabbath
–  Who is Messiah Podcast?  –
Messiah Podcast is a production of First Fruits of Zion (FFOZ), a Messianic Jewish education organization dedicated to reconciling disciples of Yeshua with God's prophetic promises to Israel. 
Messiah Podcast is made possible by the generosity of our First Fruits of Zion Friends. FFOZ Friends help advance our mission while gaining access to exclusive Messianic Jewish teachings and resources. If you want to partner with us in spreading the message of the kingdom to all nations, become an FFOZ Friend today.

As tensions continue to ferment in the Middle East, God has called some from among his flock to bring the gospel of the kingdom to the Muslim world. Our guest today, Stephanie Quick of the Emmaus Table, is a writer, teacher, songwriter, recording artist, cinematographer, filmmaker, and fierce advocate of Israel with rare and unusual political equilibrium, and a true and loyal friend to dogs everywhere. She's here to tell us about how the Emmaus Table is proclaiming the gospel in its original apocalyptic Jewish context to audiences in the Middle East and around the world.
👉 Key Discussion Points:
► The Gospel’s Jewish Context in the Muslim World: Stephanie emphasizes the importance of proclaiming the “gospel of the kingdom” within its original apocalyptic Jewish context, even to the Muslim world.
► Founding of the Emmaus Table: After years with Frontier Alliance International (FAI), Stephanie helped transition their public-facing efforts into “The Emmaus Table.” The new collaborative “dinner table” model provides a free and growing resource library, including films, teaching, and music.
► The Covenant and Controversy Framework: A central theme of her work is navigating the “controversy of Zion.” She posits that God’s faithfulness to his everlasting covenant with Israel is the foundation for a Christian’s personal security; if God were to renege on his promises to the Jewish people, believers would have no basis to trust his promises to them.
🔖 Chapters
00:00 Living through Conflicts with Iran
05:52  Journey to the Middle East: A Personal Calling
11:10 Missions and Filmmaking in the Muslim World
22:16 The Emmaus Table: A Collaborative Initiative
29:29 Understanding the Gospel of the Kingdom
37:10 The Incomplete Gospel and Its Implications
42:44 The Wire: Geopolitics through a Maranatha Lens
45:16 The Inkwell: A Devotional and Teaching Platform
48:26 The Global Bible Study: Weekly Teachings and Insights
49:48 Death + Kingdom: A Musical Exploration of Resurrection
👉 Resources:
► Emmaus Table
► Covenant and controversy: The Great Reign
FFOZ at the Emmaus Table
https://ffoz.org/messiah/articles/ffoz-at-the-emmaus-table
https://ffoz.org/messiah/articles/drawn-from-flame-and-water
https://ffoz.org/messiah/articles/sojourners-and-exiles
SOCIAL MEDIA INFORMATION
https://www.facebook.com/theemmaustable.world
X and IG at: @quicklikesand
Music Albums to explore on your favorite streaming service
► The Death of Death: Death + Kingdom Vol. I
► Ballads of Song of Solomon
–  Who is Messiah Podcast?  –
Messiah Podcast is a production of First Fruits of Zion (FFOZ), a Messianic Jewish education organization dedicated to reconciling disciples of Yeshua with God's prophetic promises to Israel. 
Messiah Podcast is made possible by the generosity of our First Fruits of Zion Friends. FFOZ Friends help advance our mission while gaining access to exclusive Messianic Jewish teachings and resources. If you want to partner with us in spreading the message of the kingdom to all nations, become an FFOZ Friend today.