Followers of Yeshua are called to take up their cross—to become martyrs. This mandate inspired one filmmaker, Reed Smith, to explore the lives of those disciples who are risking everything to follow Yeshua. In the process, he found that the gospel message was inextricably tied to the exile and redemption of Israel. In this episode, filmmaker Reed Smith discusses the themes of his new film, Sojourners and Exiles, which explores the cost of discipleship for modern-day disciples of Yeshua.

–  Takeaways –

• The Call to Martyrdom and Discipleship – Followers of Yeshua are called to take up their cross, a theme that inspired filmmaker Reed Smith to explore modern discipleship and persecution.
• The Gospel’s Connection to Israel – Smith discovered that the message of the gospel is deeply tied to the exile and redemption of Israel, emphasizing that God's plan is Israel-centric.
• "Sojourners and Exiles" Film – The documentary explores the cost of discipleship, focusing on real-life martyrs and their sacrifices for faith.
• Western Christianity Lacks a Theology of Martyrdom – The podcast discusses how many Western Christians have not seriously considered martyrdom, while believers in other parts of the world face real persecution.
• The Film's Unexpected Shift – While initially about martyrdom, the film evolves into a broader message about the Gospel of the Kingdom, the role of Israel, and the Jewish Messiah’s return.
• A Palestinian Jordanian’s Journey – The film features a Palestinian Jordanian Christian who, despite cultural and religious opposition, embraces an Israel-centric gospel, demonstrating deep personal sacrifice.
• Persecution for Supporting Israel – The discussion highlights how supporting Israel is becoming increasingly controversial, even within Christian circles, leading to potential persecution in the West.
• Torah Club’s Role in Spiritual Growth – Smith shares how joining a Torah Club has deepened his understanding of the Jewish context of Scripture, reinforcing the need to see Jesus within His Jewish identity.

–  Chapters –

(00:00) Episode Introduction
(02:00) Introducing Filmmaker Reed Smith
(03:39) The Inspiration Behind 'Sojourners and Exiles'
(21:51) Martyrdom: Counting the Cost of Discipleship
(33:03) A Palestinian Jordanian Believer Embraces an Israel-Centric Gospel
(42:07) A Powerful Anecdote
(43:53) The Divine Reversal of the Kingdom
(45:47) Persecution From Without and Within
(52:17) A Fresh Interpretation of Matthew 25
(01:03:17) Another Helpful Resource: Torah Club 
(01:09:50) Final Thoughts and Where to Watch the Film

–  Resources –

Sojourners and Exiles Trailer

Sojourners and Exiles Film

I See Nations Trailer

I See Nations Film

– 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.

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