Lighting of the Seven Branch Menorah (Optional)

Hebrews Through a Hebrew's Eyes

• Stuart Sacks
• 119 pages | 1995

Written to Messianic Jews in the first century, the Book of Hebrews, understood properly through Jewish eyes, edifies and encourages all. This epistle is one of the outstanding theological treatises in the New Testament.

Hebrews Through a Hebrew's Eyes teaches the message of this important letter in a fresh, new way. Dr. Stuart Sacks, himself a Messianic Jew, offers insights into Hebrews that only a Jewish believer in Yeshua can give.

A fresh and fascinating study of Hebrew. Dr. Sacks comes alive as he interacts with the text from his personal background in Judaism.
— Dr. R.C. Sproul, Ligonier Ministries

You don't have to be a Hebrew to understand Hebrews, but Stuart Sacks, a wise . . . pastor, surely helps us understand it. This revealing work is must reading for all who would know the priestly work of our Lord better.
— Dr. James M. Boice, former pastor, Tenth Presbyterian Church

Stuart Sacks, a pastor for over 20 years, currently assists missionaries with their ongoing educational studies at the American Missionary Fellowship. He is the author of When You Haven’t Got a Prayer, numerous articles for The Encyclopedia of the Bible and Revealing Jesus as Messiah. He holds a doctorate in Old Testament studies from Southwest Theological Seminary.

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The Voice of the Lord: Messianic Jewish Daily Devotional

• David J. Rudolph (ed.)
• 416 pages | 1998

Here are words of encouragement that offer insight into the Jewish Scriptures—both Old and New Testaments. Twenty-two prominent Messianic contributors provide practical ways to apply biblical truth. These devotions, explore the Jewish roots of the New Testament, explain Hebrew words and phrases, and are filled with anecdotes from Jewish life and literature. Jump-start your day with this unique resource.

Keyed to the Hebrew calendar, this unique devotional begins with the month of Tishri. Extensive appendices include information on the Hebrew calendar, biblical and traditional feast days, and traditional weekly readings from the Torah (Pentateuch), Haftarah (Prophets), and the Brit Chadashah (New Testament).

I believe you have done an excellent and very worthwhile piece of work in gathering these daily readings for Jewish believers. I pray that they may be widely used among Jewish believers, but also among Christians who need a different perspective in their daily readings from Scripture and in their devotions.
— Edith Schaeffer, Author and Lecturer

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Messianic Judaism: A Modern Movement With an Ancient Past: (A Revision of Messianic Jewish Manifesto)

• David H Stern
• 321 pages | 2007

In the first century of the Common Era, tens of thousands of Jewish people followed Yeshua (Jesus), believing him to be the promised Messiah of Israel. They didn’t renounce their heritage, their customs, nor their people. They remained Jews.

Two thousand years later, hundreds of thousands of Jewish people follow Yeshua, also believing that he is the Messiah. They, too, have not renounced their heritage, customs, nor their people.

Messianic Judaism is the modern movement that is bringing it all together, for Jews and non-Jews. This book answers the following questions and more: What happened in the past 2000 years? Is Messianic Judaism a prophetic movement? What do Messianic Jews believe? Did the Torah, the Five Books of Moses, become null and void? What are the challenges for the future of this movement?

In easy–to–read style, Dr. David H Stern, translator of the Jewish New Testament and Complete Jewish Bible, gives us a comprehensive look at this vital movement. Whether you are a Messianic Jew, yourself, a Christian with curiosity about the Jewish roots of the Faith, or, a Jewish person wanting to understand more, Messianic Judaism: A Modern Movement with an Ancient Past puts it all in perspective for you.

Read by tens of thousands in its first version, (Messianic Jewish Manifesto) this book has been instrumental in shaping and challenging Messianic Judaism. Now in this new edition, Dr. Stern lovingly challenges us again.

David H. Stern, born in Los Angeles in 1935, is the great-grandson of two of the city's first twenty Jews. He earned a Ph.D. in economics at Princeton University and was a professor at UCLA. In 1972 he came to faith in Yeshua the Messiah. He then received a Master of Divinity degree at Fuller Theological Seminary, did graduate work at the University of Judaism, and was active in the Messianic Jewish movement. In 1979 the Stern family made aliyah (immigrated to Israel); they now live in Jerusalem.

Dr. Stern authored the Messianic Jewish Manifesto from which Restoring the Jewishness of the Gospel is excerpted. His highly acclaimed English translation, the Jewish New Testament, restores the New Testament's Jewishness. His Jewish New Testament Commentary discusses the many Jewish issues found in the New Testament. His fresh translation, the Complete Jewish Bible, expresses the unity of the Tanakh (Old Testament) and the B'rit Hadashah (New Testament). This outstanding, scholarly work offers Bible readers a thorough, biblically Jewish version of God's word.

God's Appointed Customs: A Messianic Jewish Guide to the Biblical Lifecycle and Lifestyle

• Barney Kasdan
• 170 pages | 1996

This book seeks to present a balanced approach to understanding the importance and the danger of traditions. There are good traditions and there are bad traditions. Additionally, there is a good spirit and a wrong spirit in which one can approach the customs. These were certainly issues that faced the first Jewish and Gentile believers in Yeshua.

On the Jewish side, the acceptance of Yeshua did not mean that they converted to a new religion. The Jewish believers actually saw themselves as having received the fulfillment of what was spoken of in the Hebrew Scriptures. They understood this to mean they were now Messianic Jews who would naturally continue in their God-given heritage. This fact is confirmed in a description of this Messianic Jewish community in the book of Acts: "You see, brother [Saul], how many tens of thousands of believers there are among the Jews, and they are all zealots for the Torah" (Acts 21:20).

The first Jewish believers in Yeshua continued in the only lifestyle they knew: the Jewish life based on the Scriptures and customs consistent with the Bible. Their new understanding that Yehua of Natzeret (Nazareth) was the Messiah made them even more zealous for their traditions, as they understood the spiritual reasons behind them. Modern Messianic Jews frequently feel the same way and share the same enthusiasm.

The Gentile believer was not excluded. Saul wrote to many of them concerning their new life in Messiah: "Therefore, brothers, stand firm; and hold to the traditions you were taught by us, whether we spoke them or wrote them in a letter" (2 Thessalonians 2:15). The first-century, non-Jewish believers in Yeshua understood many of the details of the Hebrew Scriptures and many of the traditions that enhanced them. An example of this is the cup shared at Messiah’s last Passover Seder. This element is not mandated in the Hebrew Scriptures, yet it became part of the tradition of Passover. The third cup is called the Cup of Redemption and, although it is a rabbinic tradition, it was blessed by Yeshua himself.

All traditions were weighed by the authority of the Bible, yet these believers were blessed as they understood the Jewish roots of their faith in Messiah. This is the balance that believers in Yeshua need to return to today. This book is an effort to bring out the spiritual richness of the biblical/Jewish traditions.

Barney Kasdan is leader of Kehilat Ariel, a thriving Messianic congregation located in San Diego. He holds degrees from Biola University (B.A.) and Talbot Theological Seminar (M.Div.). He also completed a year of post-graduate study at the University of Judaism in Los Angeles. Mr. Kasdan is the author if the popular book God’s Appointed Times.

God's Appointed Times: A Practical Guide for Understanding and Celebrating the Biblical Holidays

• Barney Kasdan
• 155 pages | 1993

The biblical holy days are not just for Jews. Christians, too, can receive the blessing of these glorious days, the greatest object lessons in the Bible. God gave each day to teach his people about him and his relationship to them. From the Sabbath, which pictures eternity, to the popular holiday, Hanukkah, mentioned by name only in the gospel of John, the special times were set apart to bless the people of God.

In this book, Barney Kasdan, leader of Kehilat Ariel of San Diego, one of the largest Messianic congregations in the world, explains every holy day described in Scripture. He teaches about the major and minor holy days, ever mindful that he is writing to both Jews and Christians.

Beginning with the Sabbath, the first holy day revealed in Scripture, he writes about Passover, Firstfruits, Pentecost, Trumpets, the Day of Atonement, The Feast of Tabernacles, Hanukkah—the Festival of Dedication, and Purim, the special day given in the time of Queen Esther.

Each chapter offers historical background, traditional Jewish observance, relevance to the New Testament, prophetic significance, and a practical guide for believers, including recipes, songs, and crafts.

There are other books on the subject of the Feasts of Israel, but this one goes beyond them all. It is written by a Messianic Jew, a Jew who trusts Yeshua. Who better to explain God's Appointed Times?

Dedicate and Celebrate!: A Messianic Jewish Guide to Hanukkah

• Barry Rubin
• 32 pages | 1999

Hanukkah, the Feast of Dedication, or the Festival of Lights, is not the Jewish alternative to Christmas. Although it is celebrated in the winter, this festive holiday describes a story all its own—of faithfulness to God, of bravery against all odds, and of the rededication of a defiled Temple. For Jews, Hanukkah is a time of bright lights, of delicious smells, of delightful singing, presents, and games. It is a time to proudly remember our heroes and wonder at the miracles of God.

Yeshua (Jesus) the Messiah—himself a Jew—also celebrated Hanukkah as recorded in John 10:22: "Then came Hanukkah in Yerushalayim [Jerusalem]. It was winter, and Yeshua was walking around inside the temple area, in Shlomo's Colonnade."

But Hanukkah is not just for Jews! Hanukkah means "dedication," a theme of significance for Jews and Christians. So why not look into this fascinating holiday? Discussing its historical background, its modern-day customs, its deep meaning for all of God's people, this little booklet covers all the how-tos. Recipes, music, rules for playing dreydel and prayers for lighting the menorah are all included.

…poignantly written…for the benefit of the novice as much as the experienced Hanukkah reveler.
— The Messianic Times, November 2002

Restoring the Jewishness of the Gospel: A Message for Christians

• David H. Stern
• 96 pages | 1988

Restoring the Jewishness of the Gospel offers a challenge to conventional Christian ideas. David H. Stern’s message is one of clear thinking about neglected questions such as: What central truth, ignored for 1800 years, must be restored if the Church is to fulfill the Great Commission? How are both the Jews and the Church God’s people? Is there a difference between Jew and Gentile in the body of the Messiah? Will God fulfill all of his promises to Israel? Does the Law of Moses remain in force today? Is the Church anti-Semitic? If so, what can you do about it? Should the Church evangelize Jews today? If so, how?

Surprising answers to these and other crucial questions, along with suggestions for godly action, are given in this exciting and insightful book by an Israeli Messianic Jew, a Jew who trusts Yeshua (Jesus). Restoring the Jewishness of the Gospel introduces Christians to the Jewish roots of their faith and reveals important truths for Jews and the Church today.

The Irrevocable Calling: Israel’s Role as a Light to the Nations

• Dan Juster
• 64 pages | 2007

Referring to the chosen-ness of the Jewish people, the Apostle Paul writes “For God’s free gifts and his calling are irrevocable” (Rom. 11:29). This messenger to the Gentiles understood the unique calling of his people, Israel. So does Daniel Juster. In The Irrevocable Calling, he expands Paul’s words, showing how Israel was uniquely chosen to bless the world and how these blessings can be enjoyed today. If you love Israel, you’ll want to read The Irrevocable Calling.

Dr. Dan Juster, a pioneer in the Messianic Jewish movement since 1972, was senior rabbi of Beth Messiah Congregation, Rockville, Md, and the general secretary of the Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations. He oversees fifteen Messianic congregations, both in the U.S. and abroad, as director of Tikkun Intl. Ministries. He holds degrees from Wheaton College, Trinity Intl. Seminary, McCormick Theological Seminary and New Covenant Intl. Seminary. He is a sought after conference speaker and has authored many books and articles. He and his wife, Patty, spend half their year in Israel and the remaining half in Florida. They have two children and three grandchildren.

The Sabbath: Entering God's Rest

• Barry and Steffi Rubin
• 48 pages | 1998

What does it mean to "rest in God?" Has the subject of the Sabbath ever confused you? Have you ever desired to celebrate this God-given day?

The Sabbath: Entering God's Rest shares the meaning of the Sabbath for both Jews and Christians. It answers some important questions: What is the Sabbath? When is the Sabbath? Should the Sabbath be kept? Whom is the Sabbath for? This book addresses these questions and other controversial aspects surrounding Shabbat, the Sabbath. It is a helpful guide for observing the Sabbath and includes recipes, blessings, and songs. This book will challenge you to have a Sabbath of peace—even into eternity.

You Bring the Bagels, I'll Bring the Gospel: Sharing the Messiah with Your Jewish Neighbor (Revised Edition)

• Barry Rubin
• 201 pages | 1997

This "how-to-witness-to-Jewish-people" book is an orderly presentation of everything you'll need to share the Messiah with a Jewish friend or co-worker in a loving, non-confrontational manner. It offers insights into understanding Jewish religion and culture, including Messianic prophecies, Jewish objections to believing in Jesus, sensitivities in your witness and more. You'll be educated and encouraged. Divided into four sections— You, the Gentile Christian; Your Message, the Jewish Gospel; Your Audience, the Jewish People; and Feedback, Barriers to Belief—with study questions.

Praying Like the Jew, Jesus: Recovering the Ancient Roots of New Testament Prayer

• Timothy Paul Jones
• 144 pages | 2005

How did Yeshua (Jesus) pray? What Jewish customs and traditions formed the basis of the Messiah's prayers?

This eye-opening book reveals the Jewish background of many of Yeshua's prayers. Historical vignettes will "transport" you to the times of Yeshua so you can grasp the full meaning of Messiah's prayers. Unique devotional thoughts and meditations, presented in down-to-earth language, provide inspiration for a more meaningful prayer life and help you draw close to God.

Praying Like the Jew, Jesus is a treasure-trove of information and inspiration. After reading this book, your understanding of God, prayer, and the Bible will be forever changed.

Unearths hidden spiritual riches in the New Testament. Jones has done a great service.
— From the Foreword by Mark Galli, Managing Editor, Christianity Today

Old truths become new realities in the inspiring pages of this guide to authentic prayer.
— James W. Goll, author and co-founder of Encounters Network

With penetrating beauty, Jones bridges the chasm between our Greco-Romanized view of the Lord's prayer life, to the rhythm and understanding of the Jewish prayer life of Yeshua.
— Rev. Robert Stearns, Executive Director, Eagles' Wings

Timothy Jones has enlightened us all. He combines imaginative story telling with knowledge of the Land and its textual richness. These retellings of gospel stories have color, pathos, and humor.
— James F. Strange, Professor, Department of Religious Studies, University of South Florida

As he examines the prayers Jesus prayed, Jones provides keen insights and layers of meaning to the enterprise of prayer. The imaginative historical vignettes bring the prayers of Jesus to life.
— Dr. John Fischer, Exec. Dir., Menorah Ministries; Rabbi, Congregation Ohr Chadash

Creation to Completion: A Guide to Life's Journey from the Five Books of Moses

• Russ Resnik
• 256 pages | 2006

Have you ever wondered if the Pentateuch­the Five Books of Moses­is relevant to your life? Do you think the Law, the Torah, has been relegated to a relic from another era? How do the commandments, given to the Jewish people, contribute to society today?

In Creation to Completion, Russell Resnik answers these questions, offering insight into the Torah. He shows that the Creator still desires his creatures to participate in bringing the Creation to completion. After each commentary, he presents a challenging thought "For the Journey."

Paul urged Timothy to study the Scriptures (2 Tim. 3:16), advising him to apply its teachings to all aspects of his life. Since there was no New Testament then, this rabbi/apostle was convinced that his disciple would profit from studying the Torah, the Five Books of Moses, and the Old Testament. Given first to the nation of Israel, God intended these teachings to be useful for all people, Jewish or non-Jewish. Now, Rabbi Resnik has written a warm devotional commentary that will help you understand you understand and apply the Law of Moses to your life in a practical way.
— Coach Bill McCartney, Founder and Chairman, Road to Jerusalem, Former President of Promise Keepers

In a time when the knowledge of Scripture is in decline in America and around the world, we desperately need a book like this to encourage people to re-engage with God's Word. Russ Resnik has done a commendable job of joining scholarly insights with warm-hearted application. His extensive interaction with rabbinic sources may be challenging to some but certainly will open up a whole new world to those interested in learning about the Jewish roots of the Messianic faith.
— David Brickner, Executive Director, Jews for Jesus

This new book offers an illuminating pathway through the riches of the Jewish heritage.
— Dan Cohn-Sherbock, Reform Rabbi and Professor of Judaism, University of Wales

The author, Russ Resnik encountered Jesus (Yeshua) in the early 1970s. He founded and was the first rabbi of Adat Yeshua, a Messianic congregation in Albuquerque. Today, he serves as executive director of the Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations, an association that establishes, strengthens, and multiplies congregations for Yeshua. He authored Gateways to Torah, his first work on the Five Books of Moses, written from a Messianic Jewish perspective. Russ and his wife Jane live in Albuquerque and have four children and six grandchildren.

The Greatest Commandment: How the Sh’ma Leads to More Love in Your Life

• Irene Lipson
• 262 pages | 2007

“What is the greatest commandment?” Yeshua was asked. His reply was twofold. His first response is this: Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one, and you are to love Adonai your Go