Maoz Israel Podcast: Recent Episodes
Maoz Israel
Straight from Jerusalem and into your world . Welcome to the Maoz Israel podcast! Become an Israel insiders as you listen to stories and articles about Israel from Israel. From politics, to the grocery store to the coming of the Messiah the Israeli insider podcast will cover just about anything that matters in Israel. For questions or comments don't forget to write us at connect@maozisrael.org
In this episode, Shani shares six biblical prayer themes for Israel, offering practical ways to pray for the nation, its people, and the Body of Messiah during this pivotal time.
Why does Israel matter so much in the Bible—and why does it still matter today? In this episode, Shani explores God's enduring relationship with Israel and why understanding that story changes the way we read Scripture.
Israel is often described as the most stable country in the Middle East. So why do its governments struggle to stay together? In this episode, Shani explores the deeper issues that repeatedly bring Israeli coalitions to the breaking point.
What happens when Jewish believers in Israel struggle to find a place to belong in the very country meant to be their home? In this episode, Shani explores difficult questions about identity, freedom and the complicated reality facing believers in Israel today.
Ceasefires can feel quiet on the surface—but beneath it, another kind of war is still unfolding. In this episode, we explore why East and West fight very different battles—and which one may shape the future.
In this episode of "Israeli Insiders", we address some of the questions that you, our readers and listeners brought up. At the very least all of us who put our faith in the New Covenant should know to defend what we believe by citing the Source! That is why we love that this conversation is being had, and we are very happy that so many are engaging in this important discussion! So sit back, enjoy this podcast, and feel free to write to us with your questions and comments!
In this episode, Shani explains why the New Covenant cannot be separated from the story of Israel — and how understanding that changes the way we see the Gospel itself.
Did Israel just drag America into an endless war or does attacking Iran fit into the "America first" vision? What if you discovered today's Iran is the tale of Communists and Islamists working together for decades to keep Christians ignorant of their plans to free the world of - freedom?
In this episode, Shani shares a powerful article from the Maoz Israel Report, a firsthand story of growing up in Nazareth and navigating faith, identity, and calling in the heart of Israel. It's an honest reflection on worship, culture, and the search for unity amid complex realities.
In this episode, we explore the biblical meaning of Jubilee and how Maoz Israel is witnessing a powerful season of restoration, freedom, and new beginnings in its 50th year. From the return of hostages to the pioneering roots of the Messianic movement in Israel, this story reveals God's redemptive timing unfolding before our eyes.
In this episode Shani shares how lives across Israel are being rebuilt with faith, hope, and practical support. Through the work of I Stand With Israel, real needs are being met and families are finding new strength, fresh beginnings, and renewed confidence in God's care.
In this "Maoz Israel Report" episode, Shani reflects on the powerful moment when Israel's hostages returned home—what it meant for the nation, the fierce love that compels us to redeem our own, and the greater hope found in God's redemption for every life, including yours.
In this episode of "War Update" Shani Ferguson shares the latest update as Hamas once again violates the ceasefire agreement. From the false "discovery" of hostage bodies to terrorists living freely in five-star hotels, Shani explains what's really happening on the ground — and what it reveals about the mindset behind these actions.
In this episode, Shani Ferguson shares the powerful contrast between a nation that loves life and one that glorifies death, the ongoing challenges of recovery, and how Israelis are stepping up to care for the wounded, the survivors, and the families still healing from trauma.
In this episode, Shani Ferguson reflects on legacy, faith, and leadership—from Martin Luther King Jr.'s little-known plans to unite Jews and Arabs through a peace tour in Israel, to the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk. Drawing emotional parallels between Israel’s past and present, she explores what happens when bold voices speak truth in a divided world. This is a timely reminder of the cost—and impact—of standing for righteousness, unity, and freedom of thought.
In this episode of War Update, Shani Ferguson reports from Jerusalem on the latest updates in Israel’s war:
•The deadly terror attack in Jerusalem
•Israel’s operation targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar
•How these events impact Israel and the region
Get clear insights you won’t hear in the mainstream media!
This week’s War Update is packed with next news:
✔ Israeli children head back to school for the first time since the October 7th war — but not everywhere. Some communities are still evacuated, and families dream of a “normal, boring year” for their kids.
✔ Israel strikes a major blow against the Houthis in Yemen, taking out top leaders of this Iran-backed terror group. What does this mean for the region?
Listent to the the full episode for insights, hope, and ways YOU can help families still affected by this war.
In this episode of the podcast, Shani shares stories from our month-long “Israel & Ishmael” worship tour across France and Belgium. In a region where Jewish identity often must be hidden and Christian support for Israel is rare, our Jewish and Arab team boldly brought worship, testimony, and truth—breaking stereotypes and opening hearts.
In this war update from Jerusalem, Shani talks about a recent hospital strike in Gaza—and how Hamas uses places like hospitals to hide and launch attacks, knowing Israel will be blamed.
In this episoide of "War Update" Shani Ferguson shares how a film festival in Toronto cancelled the viewing of an October 7th documentary because some footage, filmed by Hamas terrorists as they murdered and kidnapped, did not have “proper permissions,” even though it was freely posted online.
She explains how European leaders declaring recognition of a Palestinian state in the middle of hostage negotiations caused Hamas to stop talks. Shani addresses the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where some areas face shortages of food, water, and supplies—including for hostages, who are being systematically starved, abused, and denied medical care.
In this podcast we’re sharing the remarkable journey of a young Israeli woman who immigrated from Ethiopia as a toddler, encountered Yeshua at a young age, and walked through some of life’s hardest challenges with unshakable faith.
What started with a vision became a book now reaching children across Israel—and it all began with a pencil, a page, and a simple picture of a gardener.
In this month’s Maoz Israel Report, we're going inside the Palestinian education system—and how it became one of the most powerful tools of radicalization in the Middle East. It’s a story few in the West are talking about—but one that shapes everything in our region.
In this podcast, we will be exploring war-time unity, political unrest, the spiritual battle Israel faces, and the growing movement of authentic Israeli worship.
In this Maoz Israel Report you will hear the story of Moti Cohen, who came to faith as a teenager through Maoz Israel’s outreach, has just been instated as the new pastor of Tiferet Yeshua— the first Hebrew-speaking, Spirit-filled congregation planted in Israel since Bible times.
This appointment is a milestone in Israel as Moti is the first native-born Israeli pastor of a sizeable congregation who does not speak English. Listen to find out why it matters!
In this podcast of Maoz Israel Report you will hear a powerful story of survival, faith, and transformation. Shani shares the story of Ilan, his journey from rebellion to faith, his escape from the October 7th attack, and his calling to minister to young people in Israel.
In this episode, we unpack the slow and painful return of hostages. We also examine Trump’s bold proposal to rebuild Gaza—or even relocate its population. Is this the path to peace or just another chapter in an endless cycle?
In this podcast, Shani unpacks the powerful and layered meanings of five Hebrew words, each connected to the theme of war. These words—Gaza, Hamas, Milhama (War) , Palestine, and Shavui (Hostage) —carry immense historical, cultural, and Biblical weight, reflecting the complexities and realities of conflict.
This Maoz Israel Report explores the dramatic shift in Syria following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad and the rise of Ahmed al-Sharaa—formerly known as the terrorist leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani—as the new face of Syrian leadership. The article investigates the Western media's embrace of al-Sharaa, Israel's strategic military response, and the broader implications for Middle Eastern stability and Christian minorities.
In this Maoz Israel Report, Shani shares the story of Shmuel, who grew up in a devout family but struggled with his faith during his teenage years. Shmuell recounts a life-changing encounter with death, a radical surrender to God during his military service, and a renewed passion for a Holy Spirit-led life.
You'll also learn more about the Jerusalem Bible Institute, which opened just a few months ago. Tune in!
Hanukkah is the subject in this episode of the Maoz Israel Show.
What does Hanukkah mean in Hebrew? How do Israelis celebrate it? And what can you learn about God’s goodness through this special holiday?
The Maoz Israel Show is now available also in audio!
And as Yeshua is the reason for the season, we begin with an episode about Yeshua!
We will talk about His miraculous birth in Israel and then go in-depth about the meaning of the name Yeshua in Hebrew and much more.
In this article of “Maoz Israel Report” Shani highlights various impactful some of the best stories from this year’s “I Stand with Israel” initiatives during a time of war. All this is done from the biblical principle of overcoming evil with good through acts of kindness, healing, and the message of life eternal .
We’ve come full circle on the Jewish calendar completing the celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles that included the accidental elimination of Hamas’ top leader Sinwar to the bombing of Iran’s air defense systems. Get all the details and insight in this article episode.
In this edition of Israeli Insiders we cover current events in Israel and surrounding nations as well as prayers for Yom Kippur.
You may have heard discussions across media platforms for years about Hamas using their civilians as “human shields.” The term “human shields” describes the strategy of terrorists who place innocent civilians between them and the line of fire to protect themselves or their weapons stashes. The strategy is a win-win for the terrorists because if someone fires on them, “innocent people” die, which creates an international uproar. On the other hand, if Israeli forces abort the mission to prevent the death of “innocents”, the terrorists and their property remain safe. The full truth, however, is actually even more brutal.
Shame is a language the Middle East understands well. That is why HOW Israel took out so many Hezbollah terrorists including its leader Nasrallah - matters.
The embarrassing use of explosive beepers and walkie talkies to disable terrorists was more than a military and cultural win, it was a statement of Israel’s tactical capability
Imagine a world where secrets are the core of your identity, where only a chosen few truly know the mysteries of your beliefs. This is the world of the Druze, one of the most mysterious religious communities on earth. The Druze faith is so secretive that only its top spiritual leaders have ever known its deepest truths, and no one today can convert to become a Druze. No one. It’s a religion that guards its inner workings fiercely, making it both fascinating and elusive.
When it comes to similarities, Druze, like Jews, havehistorically been loyal to the nation where they live.Wherever Jews were exiled, they learned the local language and found ways to assimilate culturally into their new society—without losing their own identity or sense of community.
Today’s report is the first-hand account from a volunteer who has joined Maoz to help rebuild a kibbutz in Israel.
Is Christianity a Jewish covenant? Dive into this controversial but important discussion about the origins of Christianity and how years of war and lack of access to the Scriptures have changed how you understand your own faith.
If you’re reading this, you likely live in a free country. A land where, at least according to the laws, you are free to think for yourself and believe what you want without threat of imprisonment or death. These freedom must be fought for in each generation, and one of the most important ways to fight is for each generation to learn the truths of God’s Word as our guide in times of confusion. That is why this month’s Maoz Israel Report you will hear so much scripture where God reiterates over generations what He plans for Israel- from the promised land to the banishment to the return and restoration to Him.
Once you see this how clear God is on this topic, you will not be easily swayed by catchy phrases and dramatic news stories. God has spoken. God will fulfill.
Shani Ferguson shares her own experience making the documentary on Kibbutz Be’eri “We Are Witnesses.” She invites you to join her this September to visit so that you too will have the authority of being a first hand witness.
She also reminds us not to share any information that might put the the troops in danger.
Rather than shifting our focus to end time conversation, she encourages us to keep our eyes on God and the work at hand.
Shani thanks those supporting Maoz, giving Jewish believers a voice and a way to help on the ground in a way that matters and sees the future of Israel.
Hezbollah is attacking the northern border of Israel, with families displaced and children being hurt. The trauma factor is intense in Israel. Maoz is partnering with believing psychologists to provide counseling to those displaced and enduring trauma.
Shani expresses her appreciation of your prayers and support, believing the Lord will once again come and rescue.
There are also more incredible opportunities to partner with Maoz in Israel coming soon, so stay tuned.
Missiles fly overhead from Iran as Shira shares her unique understanding of tension in the Middle East, based on having lived there covering events since 1967.
Listen as she uses history to explain why the citizens of Galilee are now evacuated and how Hezbollah has become Israel’s most serious threat and how she has confidence in Gods ability to protect His people.
In what feels like a chat with a dear friend, Shani shares a unique perspective and insight on Iran’s attack and the war in Gaza based on her lifelong study of relations in the Middle East, her deep love for her nation Israel, and her heart of ministry for all people. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of the phrase “from the river to the sea”, knowledge of the numbers we’re hearing in the west, and a challenge to pray for religious freedom in all countries affected.
Shani shares the parable of the sheep & goats, presenting an interpretation that challenges the nations. Is Jesus speaking about something more than helping those in need everywhere?
Shani explores reasons why God chose a slice of Earth in the middle of Europe, Asia, and Africa as the Promised Land for His people. Why not a beautiful, peaceful tropical island? Could it be that being central to humanity was part of His plan?
Hear remarkable miracle stories from the War of October 7th and how King Solomon prayed into the future of Israel healing as a nation
Whether it’s worship, war relief or spreading the Word of God, Maoz Israel is always at work somewhere in Israel. Here’s a quick update of what has been going on the ground
Shani Ferguson shares the courageous story of David Ratner, a young man who grew up in the southern city of Ashdod. At 18 years old, David was drafted into a special combat unit in the IDF. His faith was challenged, yet he came to a deeper and more personal relationship with Yeshua. On October 7th, his post came under attack. Hear how his courageous acts of bravery saved lives and how his choices opened the door to bring the Gospel to some Israelis for the first time.
Shani Ferguson discusses some of the questions raised by Maoz partners and their friends and colleagues in regards to the war. How should Christians approach the emotional issues that come with war and conflict and more in this edition of “Israeli Insiders”
In this month’s feature article in the Maoz Israel Report Shani Ferguson discusses the backdoor to your faith.
There’s a reason why thieves go for the backdoor of a home. They know the front door is reinforced and designed to keep out unwanted people. But it’s the backdoor that makes us vulnerable. The same goes for our beliefs. There are ideas we hold solidly in our hearts: God is good. He is Holy. He is the Beginning and the End. He is a God of Covenant who always keeps His promises. He never fails and He never changes. So, may I ask, if there is no doubt about God keeping His promises to every one of His followers, why is there such confusion when it comes to God keeping His promises to Israel? Simply put, the backdoor…
We just finished celebrating Hanukkah but we know our Christian brothers and sisters are just about to enjoy their family time around the story of the Jewish savior and a Christmas tree. If you are one of those, this podcast is full of warm wishes for your holiday experience.
And as you are celebrating a family event that took place in Israel long ago, we threw in a sprinkle of thoughts about your own family story.
Enjoy a quick Happy Hanukkah from Israel with the Hebrew word of the day and its meaning in modern day life in Israel
Kobi and Shani's oldest daughter has been featured on Fox News as she joined the IDF this month during a time of war and how Maoz has been involved in the war efforts.
It's the holidays! And being at war doesn't mean we can't find moments of joy in the darkness. So in this edition of the Maoz Israel Report we collected a number of funny and bittersweet stories in this conflict that brought a smile to our faces. We hope they bring smile to yours.
Shani discusses the current situation in Israel including how Israelis feel about the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners who have committed terror attacks. She also discusses Maoz war relief activities around the country and how people can get involved at israelneedsme.com
This is not a fun article. But it is a necessary one. It is the story of the darkest day in Israel’s modern history - the Black Sabbath - as we call it in Hebrew. I did my best to spare you from the worst of it, but it’s still not an article for kids. Honestly, it’s not an article humans should ever have to write about other humans. We know who our true enemy is and he is not flesh and blood. And yet, he works through humans and it is crucial that we face it with eyes wide open.
Shani Ferguson is interviewed on the American Family Radio by "The Middle East Report" with John Riley in a passionate appeal to Christians.
“Christians are not just grafted into a random tree - they are grafted into a tree called Israel. Have you ever seen a branch when it is no longer attached to its tree? Because right now someone is trying to cut that tree down.”
It's the Jewish holiday season, the perfect time to enjoy another tale in the incredible journey God is taking His people on - drawing them from the four corners of the earth to meet with them in the land He promised their ancestors. This is part two in a three part story of Pastor David Safafa’s congregational leaders who “have all been in some sort of prison” as he likes to describe them.
Meet the Boys of Beresheet! They are the young, new leaders of Beresheet (Genesis) and how they got there is quite a tale!
PM hospitalized after visiting Sea of Galilee, and the law to shut down the power of the court system and make Israel’s legislators unchallengeable passes first reading causing renewed protests.
All this and more on this episode of Israeli Insiders
Follow the journey of Israeli-Arab Saleem Shalash from his childhood serving in the church disconnected from God to discovering the true nature of His Savior and His love for both Jews and Arabs
What if you could take your child into their future and let them experience life as a parent. Would it change the way they view their own behavior today? That and much more on this section of the Ancient Jewish Family Secrets in the Maoz Israel Report
We'll take a break from politics in this month's Maoz Israel Report and discuss the most powerful ingredient for a prosperous nation - and that is the family dynamic. Enjoy the beginning of Ancient Jewish Family Secrets - and stay tuned for the rest in the coming weeks.
Do you know what the Jewish holiday of Shavuot and the Day of Pentecost have in common? Listen in to find out along with a few updates on Israel’s political home front on this edition of Israeli Insiders
While Israelis spent the evening around bonfires, as is tradition during Lag Ba’omer – the IDF surprised the Islamic Jihad in Gaza with Operation Shield and Arrow taking out three top terrorists in the organization in their hideout apartments. The following day all public events and educational outlets were closed and Israelis told to stay close to bomb shelters as Israel awaited the expected response from Gaza.
The temporary break Israelis took from protests is over and the streets are once again full of protesters for and against the judicial reformation. The coalition is under pressure to pass a budget or Israel goes to automatic reelections. But members of the coalition are threatening not to pass a budget if their proposed laws aren't passed first. Of course, none of this happens in a vacuum as just this week 100 rockets were fired on Israelis from Gaza in 24 hours.
In this episode we report about the temporary break Israel took from protests to enjoy God's Feasts, mourn our lost and celebrate our independence. Then it was full force back to protests - for and against the reform. However, the unrest in Israel is not just about the politics in Israel, it is about how our surrounding enemy nations perceive the unrest - and whether it offers them an opportunity to attack Israel at a vulnerable time.
It’s Passover and Israelis momentarily abandoned their protests to honor what we refer to as the Freedom Holiday. But it’s also Ramadan and we’re under attack on virtually every front. Rockets from the north and Gaza as well as riots on the Temple Mount. And also terror attacks from rural roads to the popular Tel Aviv boardwalk.
Israel was supposed to have a constitution. But since it’s rebirth in 1948 Israel has been fighting off numerous armies and in the midst of it, Ben Gurion was afraid that if they sat and debated all the contentious issues regarding the nature of the state, this would cause an irreparable division. They decided to wait until a later date when circumstances on the ground were better. And now 75 years later, we’re reaping the consequences.
Why the protests? What is this judicial reform everyone is upset about? Why are pilots refusing orders? And most jarring - is the Gospel going to be banned in the Holy Land?
Over the past decades, Messianic Jews have immigrated to Israel from all over the world. They fought through discrimination, stigmas and immigration barriers and earned reputation of being loyal and good citizens. Now millions of Jews living abroad who don't fit into the category of ultra-orthodox are facing the real possibility of no longer being eligible to immigrate to the land promised to their forefathers. But why?
When Israel was formed, certain laws were established as the foundation from which its democracy would grow and evolve. However, for this current coalition of indicted or convicted politicians to function with its ideology, they are challenging these fundamental laws with the goal of changing them.
Get to know Shani Ferguson on a personal level as Kiplin from Christ for the Nations is given to the green light to “ask anything” about her life and ministry.
Q&A time as Shani Ferguson answered some of the questions on the minds of the student body at Christ for the Nations.
How faithful is God to His word? Try the poetic descriptions of Jeremiah 31 on for size as Shani Ferguson teaches the student body at Christ for the Nations
Throughout its history, Israel’s culture has toggled between following the Lord and longing to be “like all the other nations.” In modern Israel, the arts have played a role in this process as Israel’s artists produced songs, films, books, and plays that glorified wickedness. As is common with Israel, once they follow in a direction, they eventually lead the way. Someone within Israel, must redirect the arts to glorify God.
Every year we highlight some of the personal stories of people who were helped by I Stand with Israel. Here are some of the harrowing tales of Israelis and Jews abroad in their time of need.
When Israel became a nation, she gave Bedouins living in her desert Israeli citizenship. However, with the Bedouin polygamous lifestyle, their numbers have increased exponentially and their cooperation with local authorities has decreased as the years have passed. Israel's Negev desert consists of about 60% of Israel's land mass. But it is quickly becoming a dangerous place to live in - or even pass through.
This month of November Israel is attempting to elect a stable government for the 5th time in four years. If you're asking why, you're in the right place. It's not as simple as voting for "right" or "left" in Israel. Listen for a summary of how Israel's political system works and various party platforms, and you may find you can now pray for Israel's governement with new understanding.
Christy Wilkerson's farewell letter to Maoz partners as she retires after 35 years of serving as the international administrator in the USA office.
In a new episode of Israeli Insiders podcast we will cover some questions that our readers have sent in, this time about the ancient Jewish “secrets” to living multi- generationally, including three reasons why people shy away from taking on this challenge.
Every Year millions of Israeli as well as Jewish families around the world gather around a table to eat, sing and celebrate Rosh Hashanah: the Feast of Trumpets as well as what has become the traditional Jewish new year! Counting from the time of creation, this year ticks up to 5783!
There are so many things to talk about when it comes to the Biblical Feasts - and so, in honor of the upcoming fall High Holidays, we answer some of the questions we’ve been asked about how Christians can relate to them.
Operation Breaking Dawn - the three day war. Hear how Israelis experienced this event as described in the Maoz Israel Report by Shani Ferguson