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.