Covenant & Conflict

Gateway Center for Israel
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"Covenant & Conflict" is a thought-provoking podcast produced by the “Gateway Center for Israel” and hosted by Nic Lesmeister and David Blease, where ancient biblical truths meet contemporary issues head-on. Each episode offers a deep dive into complex and often divisive topics with subject matter experts, aiming to explore the intersection of covenantal values and modern debates. Instead of fostering division, this podcast seeks to model respectful engagement and peaceful discourse amidst conflict.

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    Torah, Jesus, and Identity: The Tension No One Talks About

    What happens when a Jewish man finds Yeshua, but refuses to stop being Jewish? In this powerful episode of Covenant & Conflict, we sit down again with Rocket Rudolph, a Torah-observant Jewish follower of Jesus, to wrestle through one of the most misunderstood tensions in Christianity: Can you follow Jesus and still remain Jewish?What does “Torah observant” actually mean today?Did the early Church unintentionally create division in Acts 15?And why does the word “Christ” feel complicated for many Jewish followers of Yeshua.This conversation goes far beyond theology, it’s about identity, calling, and the deeper story most believers have never been told. From the meaning of Israel (“to wrestle with God”) to the real implications of Torah, exile, and Messiah, this episode challenges both Gentile Christians and Jewish believers to rethink what faithfulness really looks like. Along the way, we unpack: Why being “chosen” might not mean what you thinkThe difference between Jewish and Greek ways of thinkingHow the gospel is often told… and what’s missingWhy antisemitism is ultimately a spiritual issueAnd what it really means to live “through” Messiah 00:00 – Intro: The Jewish Wrestle Begins Again02:15 – What Does It Mean to Be “Chosen”? (It’s Not What You Think)08:10 – Torah Observance: Law, Identity, or Something Deeper?15:30 – Acts 15: The Decision That Changed Everything24:50 – “Christ” vs “Messiah”: Did Translation Shift Theology?34:10 – Why Antisemitism Is More Than Political (It’s Spiritual)45:20 – The Gospel We Preach vs The Gospel in Scripture55:00 – Final Thought: Don’t Stop Wrestling

    1hr 17min

  2. 29 APR

    Is Israel Breaking International Law? The Truth About Genocide, the UN, and Gaza with Andrew Tucker

    In this long-awaited episode of Covenant & Conflict, we sit down with international lawyer Andrew Tucker to unpack one of the most misunderstood and controversial topics in the world today: Israel and international law.From accusations of genocide to debates over occupation, settlements, and the United Nations, this conversation brings clarity to the legal language dominating headlines and social media.If you’ve ever wondered: What international law actually isWhether Israel is committing genocideWhy the UN constantly targets IsraelWhat “occupation” and “settlements” really meanOr how the modern conflict connects to biblical themes…this episode will help you think clearly and respond intelligently.Andrew Tucker serves with a legal think tank focused on Israel and international law, advising at the highest levels—including the UN. He brings both legal expertise and a deep understanding of the spiritual and historical dimensions behind the conflict.This is not just a political conversation. It’s about truth, clarity, and understanding one of the most important issues of our time.⸻Chapters00:00 – Why Israel Is So Controversial Right Now00:02:10 – Biblical vs Political Israel: Why It’s So Complex00:13:52 – What Is “International Law” (Really)?00:24:59 – Are Israeli Settlements Illegal?00:45:19 – What Is Genocide? (Legal Definition Explained)00:50:54 – Is Israel Committing Genocide in Gaza?01:03:59 – Who Owns the West Bank? (Legal Breakdown)01:06:04 – Why a Two-State Solution Keeps Failing

    1hr 17min

  3. 22 APR

    What Christians Need to Know About Islam Right Now | Nathaniel Buzolic

    What should Christians really believe about Islam, and why does it matter right now?In this powerful and unfiltered episode of Covenant & Conflict, we sit down with Nathaniel Buzolic (Nate Buzz) to explore one of the most important and misunderstood topics in the Church today: Islam, Christianity, and the truth about Jesus (Yeshua).This conversation goes far beyond headlines. We dive into the theological foundations of Islam, how it compares to the Bible, and why so many believers feel unprepared to engage with it. From the identity of Jesus to the story of Israel, from history to modern conflict, this episode challenges Christians to think clearly, biblically, and courageously in a cultural moment filled with confusion.At the heart of this discussion is a deeper question: is this simply a difference of religion, or is there a much bigger spiritual reality unfolding? As Nate shares from personal experience and study, the conversation reveals why understanding Islam is not optional for the modern believer; it’s essential.“This is not just political… this is a spiritual battle.”Our heart in this episode is not to attack people, but to pursue truth. We believe real love requires clarity, and real clarity leads us back to the person of Jesus and the story God is telling through Israel and the nations.If you’ve ever wrestled with questions like What does Islam actually teach? How is Jesus viewed in Islam vs the Bible? How should Christians respond?—This episode will challenge, equip, and stretch you.00:00 Introduction: Why Christians Must Understand Islam02:05 Meet Nathaniel Buzolic (Nate Buzz)05:30 Israel, Suffering, and Rising Global Tensions12:10 Christianity: Religion or Jewish Movement?20:15 What Islam Teaches vs. What People Assume32:40 Jesus (Yeshua) in the Bible vs Islam48:55 End Times, Spiritual Battle, and What’s Coming1:05:10 How Christians Should Respond with Truth & LoveSubscribe for more conversations on Israel, theology, and the intersection of ancient truth and modern conflict.

    1hr 27min

  4. 7 APR

    Between Judaism & Christianity: A Messianic Story with Joshua Aaron

    In this powerful episode of the Covenant & Conflict Podcast, we sit down with Joshua Aaron to unpack one of the most complex and misunderstood topics in the Church today: the relationship between Judaism, Christianity, and the identity of Israel. Joshua shares his deeply personal story. He grew up between Orthodox Judaism and Christianity, encountered Yeshua as the Jewish Messiah, and now lives in the tension as a Messianic Jewish believer. From Holocaust family history to a miraculous reunion decades later, to raising children in Israel during war, this conversation is raw, emotional, and incredibly timely. We also address some of the hardest questions believers are asking right now. Has the Church replaced Israel?What is replacement theology, and is it biblical?Why is antisemitism rising again, even among Christians?How should believers view modern Israel?What does Scripture actually say about Israel’s future?This episode brings clarity, historical perspective, and a Spirit-led call to discern truth in a confusing cultural moment.If you have wrestled with Israel, the Church, or your theology around both, this conversation is for you. Video from Joshua Aaron's YouTube of his mother reuniting with her brother: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xo_4BWkItRg Topics Covered Messianic JudaismReplacement theology explainedJewish identity and the gospelAntisemitism in the ChurchJewish believers in JesusFaith in the middle of war

    55 min

  5. 25 MAR

    An Ethiopian Jewish Journey to Messiah with David Safafa

    What happens when an Ethiopian Jewish man, raised in deep tradition, encounters Yeshua (Jesus) in a dream that changes everything? In this powerful episode of Covenant & Conflict, we sit down with David Safafa, an Ethiopian Jewish believer and leader in Israel, as he shares his incredible journey from growing up in a remote Jewish community in Gonder, Ethiopia, to immigrating to Israel during Operation Moses, and ultimately discovering the Messiah. This is more than a story… It's a testimony of identity, sacrifice, calling, and revival in Israel today. What You'll Hear in This Episode: Life as an Ethiopian Jew before modern connection to global JudaismThe shocking discovery of Jewish identity connections through DNAThe journey to Israel during Operation MosesA life-changing dream encounter with YeshuaThe cost of following Messiah — rejection, loss, and perseveranceThe birth of the Beresheet Congregation — the first Hebrew-speaking Ethiopian Messianic communityA growing revival among young people in IsraelWhy believers around the world need to pray for Israel right nowWhy This Story MattersGod is moving in Israel. From Ethiopian Jews to native-born Israelis, there is a rising hunger for truth and identity in the Messiah. David's story is a glimpse into a larger movement that connects the Jewish roots of the faith, the restoration of Israel, and the global Body of Messiah. If you care about: IsraelEnd times prophecyThe Jewish roots of ChristianityRevival among the nations…this episode is for you. 00:00 Introduction – Ethiopian Jewish Believer from Israel03:47 Growing Up Jewish in Ethiopia06:53 Journey to Israel – Operation Moses & Aliyah Story10:12 Encountering Yeshua in a Dream (Radical Transformation)14:50 The Cost of Following Messiah (Rejection & Faith)16:08 Calling & Launching a Congregation in Israel24:04 A Hebrew-Speaking Revival Among Young Israelis26:48 What God Is Doing in Israel Right Now (End Times)30:11 How to Pray for Israel & Stand with the Body of Messiah Get InvolvedDavid and the Beresheet Congregation are seeing a real revival in Israel, especially among the next generation. Pray for: Strength for leadersUnity among Jewish and Gentile believersContinued openness to the Gospel in IsraelStand with Israel. Stand with the Body of Messiah. Subscribe for MoreIf you're passionate about: Biblical truth in modern issuesIsrael and the ChurchReal conversations that matterSubscribe to Covenant & Conflict and join the conversation.

    34 min

  6. 18 MAR

    A Practical Guide to Israel, The End Times, and the Return of Jesus | Ben Juster (Tikkun America)

    What did Yeshua actually say must happen before His return, and what does that mean for how we live right now? In this episode of Covenant & Conflict, David Blease sits down with Ben Juster (President of a network of Messianic Jewish congregations through Tikkun America) for a deeply practical, Scripture-grounded conversation on Israel, the End Times, and the return of Jesus without date-setting, fear, or internet conspiracy vibes. You’ll hear why end-times teaching can become a “minefield,” what Matthew 24:14 means for the global mission, why Jerusalem and the Jewish people still matter in God’s covenant plan, and how preparing for the return of Yeshua looks less like panic and more like holiness, godliness, unity, gospel witness, and enduring suffering with hope. This one is for anyone who’s asked: Are we in the “season” of Yeshua’s return?What role does Israel play in the last days?Why does the Bible still speak of Israel and the nations together?How should believers respond to rising antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment?Does my end-times framework change how I live?Resources mentioned Israel, the Church, and the Last Days (Asher Intrater & Dan Juster)Tikkun America / Tikkun Global (see links below)Connect with Ben / Tikkun Tikkun America: tikkunamerica.orgTikkun Global: tikkunglobal.orgIf this helped you, subscribe, share it with a friend who’s confused about Revelation, and drop a comment: What’s the most practical takeaway you’ve heard about the End Times? Chapters 00:00 — Welcome + Why End Times Conversations Get Heated00:31 — Who Ben Juster Is + Messianic Judaism’s Modern Roots04:19 — Avoiding Fear & Date-Setting: Where to Start Biblically06:44 — Matthew 24:14 + The Gospel to Every Nation10:44 — Jesus Says “You Will Not See Me Again Until…” + Israel’s Role21:29 — How to Prepare for Yeshua’s Return: Holiness vs Godliness44:31 — Antisemitism, Replacement Theology, and Standing with Israel

    54 min

  7. 4 MAR

    Pressing Pause: Starting Sabbath

    Are modern Christians missing the gift of the Sabbath? In a world addicted to productivity, burnout, and constant noise, what if the Fourth Commandment isn’t a burden, but an invitation? In this episode of Covenant & Conflict, we sit down with Michael Hirsh, author of Pressing Pause: A Guide to Sabbath Rest for Modern Believers, to explore how rediscovering Shabbat transformed his faith, marriage, and ministry. Michael shares his radical conversion story from growing up without faith in Michigan to leaving the dream of baseball behind to pursue Jesus. But the real turning point came years later in Jerusalem, during a Shabbat dinner that he describes as a “Damascus moment.” What he discovered about the command to “Remember the Sabbath” changed everything. This episode unpacks: What the Fourth Commandment really meansWhy Sabbath is not legalismThe burnout epidemic in modern ChristianityHow Shabbat restores identity and communion with GodPractical steps to start observing Sabbath todayIf you are a pastor, leader, high achiever, or simply exhausted… this conversation may be exactly what your soul needs.

    46 min

  8. 25 FEB

    The Modern Messianic Movement Explained with Dr. Dan Juster

    What is the theological foundation of the Messianic Jewish movement? Should Jewish believers in Jesus remain Jewish? And why does replacement theology continue to distort how the Church reads Scripture? In this deeply important conversation, Preston Benjamin sits down with Dr. Dan Juster, founding member of numerous Messianic Jewish assemblies, unions, and congregations. Today, we explore the history, theology, and future of the Messianic Jewish Movement. Drawing from decades of leadership and scholarship, Dr. Juster shares his personal journey from training as a Presbyterian pastor to helping pioneer the modern Messianic Jewish movement. What began as scholarly research into early Jewish faith within the Church became a lifelong conviction that Jewish followers of Yeshua are called to maintain their Jewish identity and covenantal responsibility within the New Covenant. We discuss: The historical roots of Messianic JudaismWhy Jewish believers in Jesus are called to live as Jews• The founding vision behind the UMJC in 1979What “Jewish life in a concrete historical community” truly meansThe principle of mutual blessing between Jews and GentilesThe theological dangers of the One Law movementThe global effort to repudiate replacement theologyPractical steps churches can take to align with God’s covenant purposes for IsraelDr. Juster makes a compelling biblical case that the Messianic Jewish movement is not a fringe expression of Christianity but a necessary restoration within the body of Messiah. He argues that Jewish continuity in Yeshua is essential to God’s redemptive plan and that the Church must move beyond supersessionism to faithfully understand Scripture. If you care about Israel, covenant theology, Jewish identity in Christ, or the future relationship between the Church and the Jewish people, this episode will challenge and equip you.This is not merely a historical discussion. It is a conversation about God’s ongoing covenant faithfulness and what obedience looks like today. Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of theology, Israel, and the Church. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:• https://instagram.com/CenterForIsrael• https://www.facebook.com/CenterForIsrael• https://twitter.com/CenterForIsrael• https://www.linkedin.com/company/gateway-center-for-israelLEARNING RESOURCES:• Getting Started — Israel 101: https://centerforisrael.com/getting-started• Israel Prayer Guide: https://centerforisrael.com/israel-prayer-guide• Perspective Papers: https://centerforisrael.com/papers

    43 min
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About

"Covenant & Conflict" is a thought-provoking podcast produced by the “Gateway Center for Israel” and hosted by Nic Lesmeister and David Blease, where ancient biblical truths meet contemporary issues head-on. Each episode offers a deep dive into complex and often divisive topics with subject matter experts, aiming to explore the intersection of covenantal values and modern debates. Instead of fostering division, this podcast seeks to model respectful engagement and peaceful discourse amidst conflict.

Information

  • Creator
    Gateway Center for Israel
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    48
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Gateway Center for Israel
  • Show Website
    Covenant & Conflict

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