GTI Tours Podcast: Recent Episodes
GTI Tours, Rich Ferreira
The Lycus River Valley in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) was renowned for its textile industry and desirable fashions in biblical times—and remains a center for textiles today. On this episode, Rich and Jerrell explore the common threads woven throughout Scripture, connecting sheep, wool, dye, and clothing into powerful spiritual imagery.
Once Christ has transformed us, we're meant to be dyed-in-the-wool disciples—our faith woven into every fiber of our lives. And like an intricate Turkish rug, God is weaving each of us into a beautiful tapestry that tells His story.
For further study, read the following passages:
Colossians 3:9-14; Romans 12:2; Romans 13:14; Galatians 3:27; Ephesians 4:22-25
Podcast video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnnxJbmToNo
Join our 2027 Signature Tour of Turkey & Greece to see the ancient city of Sardis! https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-turkey-greece-2027
Join Rich Ferreira as he sits down with Nashville pastor Tommy Swindoll following his recent Israel Study Tour (June 1–12, 2026). Despite media reports, Tommy and his group experienced a safe, welcoming, and unforgettable journey. After leading ten trips to Israel, he calls this one his best!
From the hospitality of the Israeli people to uncrowded biblical sites, every day brought fresh perspective. Walking where biblical events unfolded transforms Scripture into living reality. If you've ever wanted to deepen your understanding of God's Word, this conversation will inspire you to experience the Land of the Bible, and discover why many call it "the Fifth Gospel."
https://gtitours.org/schedule
Video Podcast link. https://youtu.be/I4c7PkixYmI
Read the trip blog here: https://travel.gtitours.org/tour-journal/tdf26
Thoughts from people on Tommy's group:
https://youtu.be/rZfPQHJgMl8
Desert trip to Saudi Arabia: https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-jordan-saudi-2027
Long before Instagram, Facebook, or X, people were posting messages on walls. From the side streets of Pompeii to the bathroom stall of a modern gas station, humans have always left their mark - messages etched, carved, inscribed, even spray-painted- political slogans, declarations of love, crude jokes, warnings, as well as secret encoded symbols and messages among persecuted Christians.
Graffiti is more than markings on a wall; it is a window into the human soul.
Archaeologists study these ancient scratches because they reveal what people valued, feared, worshiped, and hoped for. Beneath the surface, there is always a deeper story being told.
The same is true of us.
Every word, every action, every conversation leaves a mark on the world around us. We are constantly writing a message with our lives.
The question is not whether you’re leaving a mark. The question is: what message are you leaving behind?
As followers of Jesus, may we carry the marks of Christ in such a way that those who pass by catch a glimpse of Him - outward expression of an inward reality.
Grace in our life is God's story being etched upon us; we are God's graffiti to the world! The transformation He has made in our lives should be read, should be seen, should be noticed - it should cause someone to stop and look.
2 Corinthians 3:2-3: "You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts."
Watch the podcast video here: https://youtu.be/TlP2p-o0c8o?si=kh_VmyWfPBeRoLoG
Rich and Jerrell are back in the studio for a fascinating conversation about Turkey and some of its most intriguing stories, legends, and folklore. Whether rooted in history, embellished over time, or simply the stuff of myth, these tales reveal a timeless truth: humanity has always been searching—hungry for meaning and thirsty for something that truly satisfies. As Jesus told the Samaritan woman in John 4, “Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” Join us as we explore the stories of Turkey and the deeper spiritual longing they reflect.
Join our next Signature Tour of Turkey & Greece, April 15-26, 2027:
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-turkey-greece-2027
More than 50 days have passed since our last interview with Ronen in Israel, so it's time for another podcast! Many are wondering what It’s REALLY like living in Israel right now (war, daily life & hope).
Israel's somber HaZikaron (Memorial Day) was April 20-21, immediately followed by joyful celebrations for the 78th Independence Day. Israelis are hopeful, resilient people and life goes on, regardless of what you see on the news. School is in session, markets are open, and many people (including Ronen) are barbecuing and enjoying life with family and friends. Soon, God willing, our tour groups to Israel will back to walk the Land!
Watch the podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QHiK-xxcegQ
See Ronen's make falafel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NiUmazDTakU
See the interview with a 5 1/2 year old Israeli boy here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7lli5WLsS0
“Joshua fought the battle of…” Whether you’re young or old, you know the answer: Jericho!
In this episode, we explore one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities—Jericho—nestled in the Jordan Valley between the Jordan River and Jerusalem. With more than 20 layers of civilization discovered (some dating back to 9000 BC), Jericho offers a remarkable window into the ancient world of the Bible.
Our guest, Canadian archaeologist Bryan Windle, joins Rich Ferreira to share his passion for biblical archaeology and his doctoral research on Jericho and its conquest by Joshua. Bryan also reflects on his experience excavating at Shiloh, where the Ark of the Covenant dwelled for over 300 years and where the prophet Samuel was raised.
The Land is often called the “Fifth Gospel”—a powerful reminder that Scripture is rooted in authentic places, actual people, and accurate history. As the stones speak, discoveries continue to illuminate and affirm the biblical account.
Learn more from our resources below:
https://biblearchaeology.org/
https://biblearchaeologyreport.com/
https://biblearchaeologyreport.com/2023/07/20/footsteps-three-things-in-shiloh-samuel-likely-saw/
The Trowel and The Truth by Scott Strippling: https://a.co/d/007tIbPz
Joshua's Jericho: The Latest Archaeological Evidence for the Conquest by Bryan Windle: https://a.co/d/0eLppMLR
“Joshua fought the battle of…” Whether young or old, you know tune and the answer: Jericho!
In this episode, we explore one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities—Jericho—nestled in the Jordan Valley between the Jordan River and Jerusalem. With more than 20 layers of civilization discovered (some dating back to 9000 BC), Jericho offers a remarkable window into the ancient world of the Bible.
Our guest, Canadian archaeologist Bryan Windle, joins Rich Ferreira to share his passion for biblical archaeology and his doctoral research on Jericho and its conquest by Joshua. Bryan also reflects on his experience excavating at Shiloh, where the Ark of the Covenant dwelled for over 300 years and where the prophet Samuel was raised.
The Land is often called the “Fifth Gospel”—a powerful reminder that Scripture is rooted in authentic places, actual people, and accurate history. As the stones speak, discoveries continue to illuminate and affirm the biblical account.
Learn more from our resources below:
https://biblearchaeology.org/
https://biblearchaeologyreport.com/
https://biblearchaeologyreport.com/2023/07/20/footsteps-three-things-in-shiloh-samuel-likely-saw/
The Trowel and The Truth by Scott Strippling: https://a.co/d/007tIbPz
Joshua's Jericho: The Latest Archaeological Evidence for the Conquest by Bryan Windle: https://a.co/d/0eLppMLR
“Joshua fought the battle of…” Whether you’re young or old, you know the answer: Jericho!
In this episode, we explore one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities—Jericho—nestled in the Jordan Valley between the Jordan River and Jerusalem. With more than 20 layers of civilization uncovered (some dating back to 9000 BCE). Jericho offers a remarkable window into the ancient world of the Bible.
Our guest, Canadian archaeologist Bryan Windle, joins Rich Ferreira to share his passion for biblical archaeology and his doctoral research on Jericho and Joshua’s conquest. Bryan also reflects on his time excavating at Shiloh, where the Ark of the Covenant dwelled for over 300 years and where the prophet Samuel was raised.
The Land is often called the “Fifth Gospel”—a powerful reminder that Scripture is rooted in actual people, authentic places, and accurate history. As the stones speak, discoveries continue to illuminate and affirm the biblical account.
Learn more from our resources below:
https://biblearchaeology.org/
https://biblearchaeologyreport.com/
https://biblearchaeologyreport.com/2023/07/20/footsteps-three-things-in-shiloh-samuel-likely-saw/
The Trowel and The Truth by Scott Strippling: https://a.co/d/007tIbPz
Joshua's Jericho: the Latest Archaeological Evidence for the Conquest by Bryan Windle: https://a.co/d/0eLppMLR
He expected Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea to be unforgettable. He knew Capernaum, Caesarea, and Jerusalem would leave him in awe. But what he didn’t expect? That this would be the trip he not only wanted but deeply needed. That walking the Land would feel like reading a “fifth Gospel.” And that the friendships and sense of community—*not in the brochure—would become one of the most meaningful parts of the journey.
In this episode, Matt Olson of Laurel, Mississippi shares his experience from the Pastors’ Trip to Jordan & Israel with Rich Ferreira (Jan. 11–23, 2026), reflecting on how this trip was far more than a tour—it was a transformative encounter with Scripture, impactful places, and most importantly, the Person of Christ.
Read their trip blog: https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/israelfam26
Dancing on the Galilee boat ride:
https://vimeo.com/1155614132?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci
More about the pastors' discounted tour: https://gtitours.org/discipleshipincontext
Video podcast: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXcitijwd7YQpy-2gjQn9DrMXJWRpGEEq&si=FP5SWjoy5rzAOFc_
Why scroll the headlines when you can hear directly from a friend in Israel? On this episode, Ronen Ben Moshe joins us from his home kitchen with a firsthand update. Even amid rising tensions with Iran, the people of Israel remain resilient - determined to live fully in the face of uncertainty. God willing, this conflict will soon come to an end, and groups will once again walk the Land together.
With the timely arrival of Purim, we’re reminded of the example of Queen Esther—a model of prayer, humility, and courageous faith in a moment of national crisis. Please join us in praying for our friends in Israel and for God’s peace to rest over the entire Middle East.
Over the course of several missionary journeys, the Apostle Paul walked countless miles of Roman roads, carrying the Gospel in his heart like an Olympian bearing a torch. The 2025 Greece/Rome Signature Tour followed those footsteps chronologically, tracing Paul’s path through some of Scripture’s most compelling cities and accounts. Join Rich Ferreira and Jerrell Jobe as they reflect on the journey, from its beginning in Kavala (Acts 16), through Philippi, Thessaloniki (Thessalonica), Berea, Athens, Corinth, and finally, Rome.
Building on Philippi’s history as a status-driven Roman city, Jerrell then unpacks Philippians 2 and explores what it truly meant for Christ to “become a servant.”
Studying Scripture in this way brings the Bible to life—real people in real places in real time—causing the stories to leap off the page! The same Living Word Paul proclaimed in Macedonia is the Word that draws us there today. Join us.
Watch this summary of the trip:
https://vimeo.com/1156798520?fl=pl&fe=sh
2026 trip page:
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-greece-rome-2026
Video podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0bN0wc_lv0
Today on the podcast, we welcome Walking the Text partners Brad Gray and Brad Nelson, who believe the Lord’s Prayer holds a transformative power that often goes unnoticed. Longtime friends of GTI, Brad and Brad have guided many tours through Israel and Turkey, helping travelers encounter Scripture in its original context.
They’ve recently launched an ambitious new project centered on the Lord’s Prayer, including a feature film, a book titled Bringing Heaven Here, and a seven-episode video series premiering Easter 2026. Their goal is simple yet profound: to help people grow not only in biblical understanding, but in the way they live out their faith each day.
Out of the Bible’s 1,189 chapters across 66 books, the Lord’s Prayer stands as a powerful summary of who God is, why Jesus came, and what our purpose is here on earth.
https://thelordsprayer.com/
walkingthetext.com
https://youtu.be/EsQpbnrv2xQ
Sir Isaac Newton used this metaphor in a 1675 letter: "if I have seen further [than others], it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” A man of science AND faith, he became one of the many intellectual and spiritual giants we will study on this incredible tour.
You've heard of Wycliffe, Tyndale, Wesley, and Wilberforce. You've read Bunyan, Lewis, and Tolkien. Come and “meet” the people who form the bridge between Bible times and our times!
The impact of the Christian faith on England and Scotland over the past 1800 years has not only shaped American and western Christianity, but also western and even global civilization. Join us and walk in the steps of the kings and queens, monks and poets, scholars and statesmen who gave us free society, freedom of worship, the Scriptures in English, and a vision for world mission - all preserved in a beautiful and ancient land of gothic cathedrals, medieval monasteries and ancient universities. Trace the path from our times to Bible times, and give your modern faith ancient roots, October 13-22, 2026.
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-england-scotland-2026
Watch the trailer:
https://vimeo.com/1142158461?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci
Blog video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noIkEafYWzY
Read the 2025 trip blog: https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/signature-england-scotland-2025
October 13, 2025: a MONUMENTAL day for Israel and for the world as the remaining 20 living hostages are finally returned HOME after two years in captivity! The people are rejoicing and celebrating; yet tears of joy are mingled with tears of sorrow for the families whose loved ones were killed. Listen as Rich Ferreira talks with Rich Liverance LIVE from Israel as he watches events unfold. Continue to pray for Israel and their people as they begin the healing process and for peace and wisdom for their future.
Jeremiah 31: 16-17
"This is what the Lord says: 'Restrain your voice from weeping
and your eyes from tears, for your work will be rewarded,' declares the Lord.
'They will return from the land of the enemy.
So there is hope for your descendants,' declares the Lord.
'Your children will return to their own land'."
What do you do when you wake up at 3am from jetlag? You record a podcast! Join Rich and Dan as they reflect on their recent Reformation Tour of Germany and Switzerland. 500 years of history is a lot to fit into a 10-day itinerary, but Dan covered a great deal of it on this trip! Beginning with the premise that "ideas have consequences", Dan led the group through the study of the Reformers, their ideas, and questions that changed the world - some of which we are still asking today!
"What should I believe?"
"How should I be governed?"
"What is the nature of a good society?"
Join us (Sept. 12-23, 2026) for a journey filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Germany and Switzerland, encompassing historical sites like the Berlin Wall and Neuschwanstein Castle, and the natural beauty of places such as Lake Constance in Switzerland. We will visit the residences and workplaces of the Reformers, but more importantly, we will bring our own faith to bear in the churches and streets where the gospel was rediscovered and proclaimed during the 16th century and beyond.
Learn more about the 2026 Reformation Tour: https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-germany-switzerland-2026#itinerary
Read the 2025 trip blog: https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/signature-germany-switzerland-2025
Learn more about Dan and 1517: https://1517.org/
Rich Ferreira and 12 other participants were part of the Aug. 28-Sept. 7, 2025 Stand with Israel Tour. They were our first trip to travel to Israel in nearly two years! On this interesting itinerary, they traversed the Land from top to bottom and side to side, visiting many unique sites that aren't usually included on our Israel trips like Shiloh, Sepphoris, and Magdala. They also had the privilege to visit the Nova Memorial and Hostage Square. You KNOW Ronen is Israeli and that Rich loves Israel, so listen instead to the participants as they share firsthand about safety, sites, food and much more. God willing, we will be running many more trips to Israel in the near future and hope to include some of you! See our trip schedule here: https://gtitours.org/schedule
30 years is a long time to be tour guide. That's why we are taking this episode to celebrate with our Turkish guide, Ozan! It's not an easy job, but it is an interesting one when you are leading tours through an amazing country like Turkey. Many people don't realize what a hidden gem this country is! With thousands of years of history, diverse people, stunning landscapes, and delicious food, what's not to like? Don't forget its biblical significance as Asia Minor, the home of the 7 Churches of Revelation, and the birthplace of the Apostle Paul. Nearly 90% of the New Testament was either written to, from, or about someone in Turkey (Asia Minor)! If you want to visit someplace special and have a guide who really connects you to the country, join us in April 2026 and meet our incredible guides: Ozan, Gokhan and Dogan. You'll never read the New Testament the same!
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-turkey-greece-2026
No, we are not discussing World Cup rivalries! This podcast episode is in a different format - a spirited but fun REFORMATION FACE OFF. GTI's Signature Tours of Germany/Switzerland and England/Scotland are each incredible, but how to choose? Listen as trip leaders Dan van Voorhis and Adam Richardson debate the sites, characters, heritage, hidden gems, cuisine, and more from each trip.
Regardless of which tour you join, you will experience quality teaching, comfortable accommodations, delicious food, and see more sites than you can imagine. Discover the ancient roots of modern faith in Europe. Invest in your spiritual life and watch your faith be transformed!
A few spaces remain for each tour. Learn more here:
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-england-scotland-2025
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-germany-switzerland-2025
Here is the link for 2026 Germany/Switzerland:
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-germany-switzerland-2026
2026 England/Scotland dates are TBD.
Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3s8SeGNkcQ
The Doctor is in the house for this podcast - Dr. Rich Liverance, of course! His work with the government of Israel brings insight to Rich Ferreira's update. This episode (recorded on July 4) will help you get an overview of the sequence of events in Israel and the surrounding countries since the initial attacks by Hamas on October 7, 2023.
Israel is the Center of God's Redemptive Story; the name itself means "to wrestle with God." Not only this, but also its ideal location makes it the most desired Land in the world! Remember that God is still at work in His Land and His People; continue to pray for peace for the people of the Middle East. Our partners, guides and drivers are safe and well and look forward to our groups returning to the Land.
Join Rich or follow the trip blog for the Stand with Israel Tour, Aug. 28-Sept. 7, 2025
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-stand-with-israel-2025
Rich Liverance and Rich Ferreira are fresh off the airplane and back in the studio to share about their amazing time in Saudi Arabia and Jordan! Our March 2025 Signature Tour group was an adventuresome bunch and the first ever to cross into Saudi Arabia! Their itinerary included not only many historical sites in Jordan but also the likely biblical sites of the Split Rock (Exodus 17), the grove of palm trees (Exodus 15), an altar-high place with bull/cow carvings at the foot of the Arabian Mount Horeb (Exodus 32), as well as the desert of Wadi Rum, a possible location of the Wilderness of Paran mentioned in scripture.
To be able to follow the Text step by step and walk the likely route of the Israelites is monumental. God often used the desert as a place of formation for His people, and the Exodus was no exception. Rich L. explains how God met them in the desert, formed them into a nation there, and identifies with the desert; he also breaks down the 7+ specific types of desert in Scripture.
To learn more about this incredible trip, read their trip blog at:
https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/signature-saudi-jordan-2025
If you're interested in seeing Saudi Arabia and Jordan in March of 2026, email Joni at joni@gtitours.org and let us know.
Types of deserts in Hebrew (by Rich Liverance):
- Midbar: This is the most used term for "wilderness" in the Bible. In fact, the book of Numbers is entitled, "BaMidbar," in Hebrew, which means "In the Wilderness." A midbar can be any sort of desert terrain but usually indicates a desert that can sustain flocks. There is also a possible association of this term with the Hebrew verb, "to speak (medeber)," which shares the same root (dbr). Thus, the midbar may be the place of speaking or the place where God speaks to His people.
- Tziyah: This word is translated as "desert" in the Text. It generally refers to a dry, remote area.
- Aravah: This is used as the formal name of the desert south of the Dead Sea to the Red Sea but can also refer to the entire Jordan Valley generally south of the Sea of Galilee. When used as a plural (aravoht), however, it refers generally to "deserts."
- Yeshimon: This is my favorite. This refers to the most desolate, barren, and brutally inhospitable land without any water, greenery or growth of any kind.
- Yabashah: This word comes from the Hebrew word, yabash, meaning "dry." It is usually translated as "dry land" such as when the Israelites crossed the Red sea on "dry land."
- Tzekhikhah: This term refes to a "parched land" in Psalm 68:6.
- Sharav: This word is translated as "scorched land" in Isaiah 35:7 but can also refer to a mirage. This is the kind of desert that causes you to see things like ghosts and oases that aren't really there.
- Tzimaon: This word is translated as "thirsty ground" in Isa, 35:7 and is used together with "sharav" above.
If you live in the SO CAL area, you are in for a treat. GTI's friend and partner, Randy Alsonso, joins today's episode to share about the Bridges for Peace REVEAL conference, coming up on May 16-17, 2025. It will be a time of revealing Israel in scripture, the truth about the conflict and the role of the Church. The conference will be held at Calvary Bellflower Church, 14722 Clark Ave., Bellflower, CA 90706. Our beloved Israeli guide Ronen is coming to California to speak! Registration and details at https://subscribepage.io/Reveal-eventbrite-page
Additionally, the Well Clovis Campus will be hosting him at 6:30pm on May 7 at 325 Nees, Clovis, CA 93611. The event will be in the backyard of the home on the corner of Minnewawa and Nees. Parking off of Minnewawa across from Buchanan Stadium. All are welcome!
This fun episode comes to you LIVE from EGYPT while Rich, Jerrell and the Signature Tour group cruise the Nile River. Listen in as they describe the highlights of the trip thus far: the Pyramids and Sphinx, sacred temples, imposing statues, and the treasures of the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum. Egyptian guide Osama joins the conversation to discuss the 10 plagues of Exodus and the Egyptian deities they disparaged. Understanding where the Israelites were coming from is crucial to understanding their journey to the Promise Land; from now on, this group will read the scriptures in a new light!
To learn more about this trip, read our Egypt/Jordan Signature Tour trip blog (including some amazing photos).
https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/signature-egypt-jordan-2025
Join us for the next round of this incredible tour, March 4-16, 2026!
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-egypt-jordan-2026
Exciting news: GTI is headed back to Europe! Not only do we run tours to Germany and Switzerland, but now also England and Scotland! The British Isles are steeped in 1800 years of Christian history from Bible times to our times. Pastor Adam Richardson brings his passion for church history, thorough education, and experience living and studying in England to bear in leading this incredible tour. We will follow the ancient path of our faith from 2nd-century believers under Roman occupation in Britannia to the late Middle Ages to the English Reformation and beyond, studying not only the astonishing architecture but the people who lived out the Gospel and passed it down to us today. Join us October 7-16, 2025 to understand the history of the Word and the People of the Word, and to invest in your own spiritual life. This trip is limited to 20 participants, so register today!
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-england-scotland-2025
What started as a project to stay connected during the pandemic turned into 5 seasons and 100 episodes! To celebrate this special milestone, Rich pulls from the archives and shares some of our favorite staff stories. Enjoy the following anecdotes:
"Missing the Boat"
"The Turkish Rock Star"
"The Egyptian Limo"
"Kickin' Chicken"
"Shooting Pool" (AKA "Too Much Moses")
"Where in the World is Trabzon?"
"Charter Flight to Kansas"
"The Most Expensive Lunch Date Ever"
We at GTI want to thank our podcast family for listening and supporting us through the years! Here's to many more years of travel, adventures, and laughs.
In honor of our 100th episode, we are giving $100 OFF to each person who registers for our Stand With Israel or Jordan/Israel Signature Tours! Just put "100th episode" in the referral section. Questions? Call our Michigan office at 616.396.1234.
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-stand-with-israel-2025
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-jordan-israel-2025
Rich Ferreira hosts previous guest Todd Morehead for this episode. Todd is the founder of Grafted Ministries and the creator of two films including Hope in the Holy Land: Delving Beneath the Surface of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict.
Today, Todd and Rich return to discussing the age-old conflict. Although it is a heavy topic, it is imperative that we not only NEVER FORGET but seek truth in the tension. Todd's work tries to give an unbiased lens with which to view the Israeli and Palestinian people and a platform for each of their voices to be heard.
After October 7, Israel will never be the same. Todd's hope is that his film and docuseries will educate, change the way people (especially Christians) view Israel, and encourage love and support for the Jewish people.
GAIN a heart for both Jews and Arabs in the Holy Land.
LEARN the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
DISCERN the truth from the propaganda.
STAND with people who are taking real risks for peace.
WATCH THE SERIES: https://www.youtube.com/@hopeintheholyland
FUND THE SERIES:
https://raisedonors.com/graftedministries/fund-the-series
THE MINISTRY:
https://www.graftedministries.com/
WATCH THE FEATURE DOCUMENTARY:
https://hopeintheholyland.com/
Todd's bio:
Todd Morehead is from Southern California, where he lives with his wife and four children. He is a graduate of Talbot Seminary with an M.A. in Biblical & Theological Studies and the author of Grafted In: Understanding God’s Role for You and Your Jewish Neighbors. He has a passion for leading Christians to Israel—a country he has visited over twenty-five times—to help instill God’s heart for the people and the Land. Todd directed and co-produced the documentary Promised Land: Israel Through The Eyes of Surfers (2012) and is the Co-Creator/Producer of both the feature documentary Hope in the Holy Land: Delving Beneath the Surface of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (2021) and the new docuseries Hope in the Holy Land: The Series. In his spare time, he loves to surf.
GTI is going to Rome! In this exciting episode, Rich and Jerrell share about their time recently exploring and planning for our groups. At the end of the first century, all roads led to Rome; it was the epicenter of the ancient world. Even today, over 35 million people a year visit the Eternal City and enjoy a LOT of pizza and pasta!
Our 2025 Greece/Rome Signature Tour itinerary includes Philippi, Thessaloniki, Athens, Corinth, Rome, and more. We will visit the Colosseum, Forum, Catacombs, even a Roman prison, reading Paul's letter from the place where it was written! We will walk the city like an open-air museum, remembering Christians who were persecuted and martyred here (including Peter and Paul), yet turned the city upside by the power of the Holy Spirit!
To understand the context of Acts to Revelation, it's necessary to understand Rome. Walk this Story with us on the ancient roads of Greece and Rome, October 16-27, 2025!
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-greece-rome-2025b
This short but sweet episode features Rich and Ronen, recorded LIVE from ISRAEL! Rich traveled to visit each of our Israeli partners, guides and drivers and enjoyed some sweet fellowship (and delicious food) in their homes.
2024 has been a very difficult year, but as the days get shorter and darker, a flame of hope is flickering brightly like a candles during Hanukkah. Peace is returning to Israel, and the people and their land are beginning to heal. One day soon, groups can return again to Israel and walk the Land.
One way to support Israel and our partners is to consider joining our "Stand with Israel Tour", Aug. 28-Sept. 7, 2025. Together, we will visit sites dear to our hearts from past trips and new sites that explore the Bible even more. Whether you are young or old, new to your faith, or a seasoned scholar, this trip will enhance your understanding of the Bible while standing with our friends in Israel. God willing, "Next year in Jerusalem!"
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-stand-with-israel-2025
On this special episode, Rich Ferreira interviews employee and friend Amy Holstege as she prepares to retire after 20 years with GTI Tours. When Amy began with GTI in 2004, little did she know how many friendships she would make and how special those relationships would become! From coworkers in our Michigan office, to staff at Turkish Airlines, to guides and drivers across the world, those relationships became the key to a long and fulfilling career.
The Lord taught Amy important lessons along the way, like appreciating what each team member brings to the table, to stop and pray in stressful situations, and to do your very best so that many people can meet God in the Land.
Israel will always hold a special place in Amy's heart, as she will in ours. God bless her and her retirement!
Wally Harrison and his Harbor Church group just returned on October 18 from their study tour of Turkey! He describes how Turkey exceeded people's expectations in terms of sheer beauty, historical sites, wonderful guide Gokhan, and enjoying delicious cuisine together in unique settings.
Little did Wally and his group know at the beginning of the tour that they would have the opportunity to bring scripture to life in an unusual way. Just before boarding their overseas flight from Chicago (ORD), Turkish Airlines delayed their flight, then cancelled it altogether. Thankfully, he and his team decided to respond with gratitude and to make the best of a stressful situation. The group had the opportunity to live out , with God's strength, Paul's powerful message in Philippians 4:11-13:
"I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength."
International travel is full of variables, and it's how we respond that counts. As GTI's adage says, "Blessed are the flexible, for they will be bent but not broken." This is a great reminder to all of us to look for the good in what God is doing!
Today's special podcast comes to you from Bethlehem. Did you know that a large part of Bethlehem's economy is tied to tourism, particularly the artisans who work with olive wood? It has been over a year since tourists have walked the streets of the birthplace of our Lord and Savior. Rich speaks with the Canavati family, who have been friends of GTI for many years, about the challenging situation facing the Christian community there. With the Christmas season approaching, one great way to support our Christian friends in Bethlehem is by purchasing Christmas gifts from this historic place. Would you consider choosing gifts from Bethlehem this season and praying for peace in the region? For more information, visit https://johnnysouvenir.com/
Check out the video podcast version at https://vimeo.com/1027998812
Dan van Voorhis joins Rich Ferreira today for the first time as our guest! Dan is an author, historian, professor, and speaker at 1517. He is very familiar with podcasts since he hosts the daily podcast, "The Christian History Almanac." Dan and Rich recently returned from the Reformation Tour of Germany (Sept. 11-19, 2024) and are here to share their favorite sites, stories, and faith lessons from the trip! One highlight was seeing Castle Church (All Saints' Church) in Wittenberg, where legend says Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door.
Dan shares the 4 Questions of the Reformation that were asked Martin Luther, by the Apostle Paul in Galatians, and by believers from ancient to modern times. After posing the overarching question, "Why did the Reformation happen?", these 4 questions follow:
"Who's in charge?"
"Who says?"
"How am I made right with God?"
"What next?" (or "What do I do now?")
The Reformation at its best was asking all of this, and today people still are. Join us next autumn for our return trip to Germany (plus Switzerland!) to study the Reformers, see their cities of origin, and to understand how they influenced our faith today.
Germany/Switzerland Signature Tour
Sept. 6-17, 2025
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-germany-switzerland-2025
Link to the September 2024 Germany blog:
https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/signature-germany-2024
Link to Reformation video:
https://vimeo.com/1015725421
Dan's bio:
Dan van Voorhis is an author, historian, professor, and speaker at 1517. After receiving his Ph.D. in History from the University of St. Andrews, Dr. van Voorhis spent 11 years teaching history and political thought at Concordia University, Irvine. He is a Scholar-in-Residence at 1517 and the host of the daily podcast The Christian History Almanac. Dan is married to Beth Anne, and they have two sons, Coert and Raymond.
While in graduate school Dan focused on Reformation era Germany and spent time living in Wittenberg and travelled throughout the country doing archival research while also taking in the historical sites related to the Reformation, the World Wars, and the Cold War. As a professor, German history was amongst his favorite classes to teach.
Beginning in Turkey (Asia Minor), they studied John and the Seven Churches of Revelation, then followed the footsteps of the Apostle Paul through Athens and ancient Corinth. As with each of our tours, there was a delightful mix of memorable moments, both lighthearted and poignant. One lesson learned from Paul's life was how he took disciples with him as he ministered, mentoring them and modeling as he went. Who are we discipling and "taking with us" along our faith journey?
In April of 2025, we will repeat this incredible trip with an added bonus that few groups get to do: Patmos! Patmos is the desolate island where the Roman Emperor Domitian banished John the Apostle in 94 AD to stop him from preaching about Jesus. While there, John received and wrote the Book of Revelation. The cave in which he wrote the book is known as the Cave of the Apocalypse and is still open to visitors today. To see the full itinerary and details, follow this link:
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-turkey-greece-2025
Another great option for a New Testament trip is our Greece/Rome Signature Tour, October 16-27, 2025!
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-greece-rome-2025b
We mourn with Israel and the Jewish people all over the world as we remain devastated by the terrible acts that took place one year ago. On October 7, 2023, Israel was attacked by Hamas. Terrorists killed over 1,000 people and kidnapped over 250. We still await the return of nearly 100 remaining hostages a year later. We recognize and lament that these vile acts have catapulted unrest in the Middle East, as well as unprecedented anti-Semitism around the world. We grieve with Israel and the Jewish people today and continue to stand with them and hold out hope for God to move and restore peace.
On this episode, Rich invites Ronen Ben Moshe (Israeli guide and friend) to share his perspective on the events of the last year and how they have affected him personally. Despite the great losses that Israel has suffered, Ronen reminds us that he and his people have shown and continue to show solidarity, support and love for one another. They are happy, joyful and optimistic with faith and joy in their hearts. They remain standing, unbroken, and need us to stand with them, supporting them all the time, in every way we can.
“Hazak, hazak, v'nit'hazek!"
("Be strong, be strong, and may we strengthen one another")
As Israel prepares to celebrate Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) and to commemorate one year since the October 7 attacks, Dan Mossek joins Rich Ferreira for an update. In this episode, Dan helps explain the recent events between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The IDF (Israeli Defence Forces) and Mossad (like the CIA) have made huge strides in the past two weeks that will hopefully be the turning point in this war. The Israeli people are very resilient, and a glimmer of hope on the horizon is encouraging to everyone. Keep praying with us for an end to the war, for the remaining hostages and their families, and for a peaceful resolution.
Apples and honey are a traditional part of Rosh Hashanah festivities because they symbolize hope for a sweet and fruitful year ahead. Shanah tovah (שנה טובה) is the traditional greeting. God willing, this year will be full of hope and sweetness for Israel!
"How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" Psalm 119:103
**We would also like to note that our staff of Israeli partners, guides and drivers are safe and well.
Jerrell Jobe and Rich Ferreira share about their time in Israel, right from the shore of the Sea of Galilee! What a special time they have had visiting not only familiar sites but, most importantly, familiar people - our treasured Israeli guides, drivers, and partners. This network of friends who feel like family is called "misphocha" [ mish-pookh-uh] - our GTI Tribe.
As Rich and Jerrell moved throughout the country, they discovered that things were "normal-ish": quiet and peaceful, yet not exactly the same. God willing, soon our groups will be once again walking the Land, the Fifth Gospel!
Our next scheduled trips to Israel are the "Stand with Israel" Signature Tour (August 2025) and the Jordan/Israel Signature Tour (September 2025). We would love to have you join us. Follow this link to see details on the upcoming trips to Israel as well as other countries such as Turkey & Greece, Egypt, Germany and more!
https://gtitours.org/schedule
mishpocha
[ mish-pookh-uh, -paw-khuh ]
noun
Yiddish mishpocha derives from Hebrew mishpakhá “family,” as Hebrew is the source of a good portion of Yiddish vocabulary. Hebrew belongs to the Semitic family of languages and isn’t related to English, but we’ve nevertheless inherited numerous culture- and religion-related words from Hebrew, such as amen, cherub, jubilee, and hallelujah. Like its Hebrew source, mishpocha means more than just “immediate family”—it’s the collection of all blood relatives, relatives by marriage, and dear friends.
2025 plans are blooming this spring with classic itineraries plus NEW discoveries on our SEVEN Signature Tours! Listen to this fun episode as Rich, Jerrell and Richard describe the lineup one by one:
Egypt/Jordan (Footsteps of Moses) - March 5-17, 2025
Jordan/Saudi Arabia - March 16-24, 2025
Turkey/Greece - April 24 - May 5, 2025
Stand with Israel - Aug. 24 - Sept. 4, 2025
Jordan/Israel - Sept. 6-18, 2025
Germany/Switzerland (Reformation Tour) - Oct. 6-17, 2025
Greece/Rome - Oct. 16-27, 2025
Regardless of which trip you choose, you will enjoy the best of the country and culture we are visiting, as well as local guides, exceptional food, diverse itinerary, and biblical teaching. Join us and watch the Land and Lessons of the Bible come to LIFE!
In the wake of the April 14 attack on Israel by Iran, Rich speaks with Israeli guide and friend Dan Mossek for an update from his perspective. We are thankful to report that our Israeli team and partners are safe and there was little (if any) damage.
Dan describes that life in Israel April 15 was essentially "business as usual": Jerusalem is quiet, the Gaza situation is contained, and several airlines are returning service to Israel. God willing, Rich will be flying into Tel Aviv in early May and will give another update. Please continue to pray for Israel and her people as they stand strong.
"The Lord is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?
When the wicked advance against me
to devour me,
it is my enemies and my foes
who will stumble and fall.
Though an army besiege me,
my heart will not fear;
though war break out against me,
even then I will be confident...
For in the day of trouble
he will keep me safe in his dwelling;
he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent
and set me high upon a rock.
Psalm 27: 1-3, 5
Rich Ferreira interviews our veteran tour guide Ronen Khayat for an update on Israel. As of this recording (March 29, 2024), things are quiet in and around Jerusalem. The northern and southern borders are feeling the tension, but only two of our typical sites on an Israel tour are closed. Daily life in most of the country has adapted to the "new normal."
One of the many things we love about our Israeli team is that the guides and drivers are friends and enjoy spending time together. They like to explore their own country in their free time, not only to learn it better but to enjoy it! Ronen and the group recently visited Emmaus (seven miles from Jerusalem, according to Luke 24:13-35) and saw Roman milestone markers (see photos). They also like to off-road in the Judean desert and prepare lunch on the grill. Israel in March is lush and green, with many flowering trees and plants. Until our groups can return, enjoy these beautiful photos!
Rich will be returning to Israel in early May and will be giving us another update, so stay tuned!
Our newest Signature Tour journeys to the heart of the Reformation - Germany! This September, we will trace the life, ministry, and theology of Martin Luther and other Reformers whom God used to reignite the evangelical movement. Listen to this episode as Rich Ferreira and trip leader Rich Liverance describe the uniqueness of this itinerary: being in Europe vs. the Middle East, walking instead of hiking, singing hymns along the way, discussing WWII and figures like Dietrich Bonhoeffer, visiting historical sites and seeing stunning spectacles like the Neuschwanstein castle in the Bavarian Alps.
From the medieval streets to the pastoral countryside to the modern cities of Berlin and Munich, this tour will encompass the best of German culture and cuisine. In addition, Rich will teach us the history of theology and the defense of the Gospel! Explore Germany and the relevance of the Reformation with us. It just might light a spark in your life as we discover again God's power to save.
Space is limited! Register today at gtitours.org/reformation
GTI Signature Tour of Germany, Sept. 11-19, 2024
Rich's better half Becky joins him for this podcast recounting GTI's recent Staff & Family Trip to Turkey! During the week of Thanksgiving, our group of 75 traveled to Turkey to study the Seven Churches of Revelation. Our eclectic crew of staff, spouses, kids and grandkids came from all over the US: Michigan, California, Florida, Texas, Tennessee and South Carolina.
Contrary to popular belief, Turkey is not part of the Middle East and is a safe destination. Its people are Muslims but not Arabs. Turkey is an incredible and underrated country with rich history, stunning ruins and fabulous food. Turkey is the Asia Minor mentioned in scripture; 75 percent of the New Testament was written either to or from Asia Minor!
Becky shares some specific sites and faith lessons she cherished from the packed week overseas. A big part of her joy was watching their 4 kids experience a different culture while watching the Word come to life! The natural hot springs, hot air balloon ride, time on the bus together and special restaurants were the icing on the cake. The hotel chef even prepared Thanksgiving food for us on Thursday … so yes, we ate TURKEY IN TURKEY (and mashed potatoes too)!
The Seven Churches of Revelation and the sites around them paint a powerful picture of life in the first-century Christian Church. Come see for yourself! Our Signature Tour of Turkey (and Greece!) is Sept. 15-25, 2024. Learn more and register with this link:
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-turkey-2024
If you'd like to read our trip blog, find it here:
https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/gtifam23
GTI's resident archaeologist Rich Liverance joins this podcast. The relatively new science of archaeology is a common topic on our biblical study tours. Rich shares from his personal experience at the active digs of Abel Beth Maccah in northern Israel, as well as Tel a Hammam in Jordan (the possible site of Sodom). From roping off a site into 5m squares to finding an iron blade, Rich knows what a day on a dig is like! He also reminds us that the Bible interprets the Bible. Archaeology CONFIRMS the Bible, as well as give material culture to the text. For example, the 1993 discovery at Tel Dan of a tablet mentioning the "House of David" confirms King David's existence and impact 150 years after his life; the discovery of a wall or some jewelry would illuminate the lifestyle of the people who lived in David's time.
For further reading, we recommend the following resources:
- The GTI Tours Facebook page
- Biblical Archaeology by Amihai Mazar
- Under Jerusalem: The Buried History of the World's Most Contested City by Andrew Lawler
- The Source by James A. Michener
If you are interested in a future Reformation Tour of Germany and Switzerland or in exploring Saudi Arabia, please email Rich and let him know at rliverance@gtitours.org.
Israeli guide Dan Mossek is our podcast guest on this episode. Dan has been partnering with GTI for 10 years and brings expertise on theology, geography, history and archaeology. Speaking as a former soldier and current recruit trainer, he shares an update on Israel and the war with Hamas.
Dan and Rich also discuss Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights which is celebrated this time of year. Since the history of Hanukkah dates to 164 BC, it's not biblical; however, the Maccabees' victory over the Syrian Greeks represents light over darkness both physically and symbolically. This reminds us of the words of Christ in John 8:12: "Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life'."
Interested in learning from Dan as a guide? He will be leading our 2024 Signature Tour of Israel and Jordan! Want to support GTI? Consider joining one of our 2024 Signature Tours:
Jordan/Israel Signature Tour (Sept. 7-19, 2024) https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-jordan-israel-2024
Stand with Israel Signature Tour (August 25-Sept. 5, 2024) https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-stand-with-israel-2024
Turkey/Greece Signature Tour (Sept. 15-25, 2024) https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-turkey-2024
Visit https://gtitours.org/podcast for photos, links, and more from this episode.
Pastor, author and trip leader Brian Haynes joins our podcast today. He and Rich describe the different types of deserts found in Israel and how they are biblical metaphors for life. Brian shares a personal story of when his family walked through a "YESHIMON" desert. In times like this, only the presence of God and a miracle of God will sustain life. These experiences led Brian to author War in the Wilderness: Fight for Your Family When Life Isn't as It Should Be, a resource for families to point them to God and to give them Hope as they walk through trying times.
Brian shares these points for families walking through wilderness experiences:
- The Enemy is the Father of Lies and wants to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10)
- Avoid isolation
- Lean into God instead of away from Him
- Listen and obey God
- Don't go it alone (doctors, counselors, praying friends)
- Take small steps in the right direction
- Stay determined
Remember, God is in the business of bringing SHALOM to CHAOS, restoring things, bringing life and healing to places that are dead and broken. The Psalms use many desert pictures to remind us of WHO GOD IS.
"Sing to God, sing praises to his name; lift up a song to him who rides through the deserts; his name is the LORD; exult before him!" Psalm 68:4 ESV
Order the book:
https://www.amazon.com/War-Wilderness-Fight-Family-Should/dp/161484139X
Author and scholar Chad Bird joins our podcast again, this time to discuss one of his newer books, Limping with God: Jacob & the Old Testament Guide to Messy Discipleship. This book guides us through the stories of the Patriarch Jacob, a rare biblical account which documents a life from in utero until death. His multi-faceted and sometimes frustrating personality gives us a mirror in which we can see ourselves: lying and fighting to get ahead, taking advantage instead of showing mercy, looking out for ourselves while God looks for us. Be encouraged by the fact that God specializes in saving sinners and calling highly-imperfect people (like Jacob) to be His disciples. Then the man said, “Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome” (Gen. 32:28).
https://www.1517.org/
https://www.tiktok.com/discover/chad-bird-1517
https://www.1517.org/podcasts/40-minutes-in-the-old-testament
Books
https://shop.1517.org/collections/books/chad-bird
https://a.co/d/2P25n1g
So many of our friends and followers have recently asked, "How can we help Israel?" and, "How can we help GTI?" This podcast episode will help answer those questions! Rich Ferreira hosts this episode with Israeli friend and guide Nadav as well as staff members Rich and Jerrell.
Nadav gives us some personal examples of how adaptive and resourceful Israelis can be in finding ways to keep busy and help others during this period of war. Promises of Glory website provides a platform to support Holy Land merchants during challenging times. A portion of the proceeds will go toward aid and assistance.
GTI's "Giving Back" page also features Johnny's souvenir shop in Bethlehem. A win-win is checking off your Christmas list with unique gifts while you support one of our partners! Be sure to order soon to allow enough time for shipping.
Another exciting opportunity is purchasing our NEW GTI MERCH Check out our new designs on t-shirts, sweatshirts, and more! These also make great gifts! All proceeds go toward a fund for our Israeli guides.
The best way to support GTI is to join one of our upcoming trips. We have Signature Tours scheduled all throughout 2024, even a new one to GERMANY! Learn more and register at: https://gtitours.org/schedule
https://gtitours.org/giving-back
On today's podcast, Rich Ferreira speaks with our Israeli guide Ronen Ben Moshe about the current state of Israel since the October 7 attacks by Hamas. Thankfully, our guides, drivers and partners are safe. For Ronen and many other Israelis, however, that day was the worst in Israel since the Holocaust.
Ronen describes what daily life in Israel right now is like and how adaptive people have become to help those in need. Israelis stand united, bonded together in solidarity, resilience and hope as they support one another. As the Jewish saying goes, "We overcame Pharaoh. We will overcome this."
Link to download prayer document:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ylrh8ka2l8k3eubji2889/Praying-for-Israel-Through-the-Conflict.docx?rlkey=8ddc4qhazrhl7l57c3wjx6ym9&dl=0
This somber episode is hosted by our GTI managers. Rich Ferreira, Rich Liverance, and Jerrell Jobe comment on the October 7 unprovoked attack on Israel by Hamas. As we all grieve for the country and its people, let our response be one of prayer. Rich Liverance spells out specific ways we can support Israel in this way. Jerrell gives comfort as he shares some thoughts from Psalm 122 and 125. May this Jewish saying be true not only for Israelis but also for us: hazak, hazak, ve-nithazek
BE STRONG, BE STRONG, AND MAY WE BE STRENGTHENED!
GTI is growing... again! We've added another staff person, one whose voice you should recognize - Jerrell Jobe! Jerrell and his family recently have moved from south Texas to west Michigan. As "Director of Development", Jerrell will oversee our pre-trip and post-trip curriculum and lead Signature Tours, among other things. On this episode, he and Rich discuss how going to the Land is meant to further discipleship and point people back to the Word. Like bookends to your tour, our pre-trip and post-trip curriculums are designed to do just that! Check out our first lesson: https://gtitours.org/study-tour-preparation-course
Jerrell has been involved in full-time ministry for the past 25 years. His primary areas of focus have been spiritual formation and teaching. Jerrell has a BS in American Sign Language Interpreting, a MA in Spiritual Formation and Leadership, and is finishing a MA in Archaeology & Biblical History. Throughout his ministry, he has led over 100 trips, to more than 25 countries. For the past twelve years, Jerrell has been leading study tours to Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Turkey, and Greece. His passion is seeing life-changing spiritual formation transpire as travelers gain a greater understanding of the Story of Scripture in its original context, while engaging the ancient practice of pilgrimage. His on-site teaching is a rich mixture of archaeological discoveries, biblical history, practical application, story-telling and drama. In his free time, he enjoys reading, running, cycling, swimming, as well as helping to coach local high school wrestling teams. Jerrell and his wife Charissa have three children.
Jerell just returned from a study tour of Turkey and Greece. The most influential city in western Turkey (ancient Asia Minor or Annatolia) was Ephesus. A Roman writer once called Ephesus "Lumen Asiae: The Light of Asia". With a population of 300,000, Ephesus was the chief commercial city of the province and the center of Artemis worship. Learn more here: https://www.bibleplaces.com/ephesus/
For our first episode of Season 4, Rich Liverance and Jerrell Jobe join Rich Ferreira to discuss a very special country: Egypt! Did you know that Egypt is mentioned more than any other place in scripture besides Israel? It's mentioned over 700 times in the OT alone!
GTI will be returning to Egypt Feb. 2024 for the Egypt/Jordan Signature Tour following the Footsteps of Moses. This amazing tour will be led by Jerrell Jobe and Rich Liverance! It not only includes the Pyramids of Giza but also the Grand Egyptian Museum (opening TBD), Valley of the Kings, a Nile River cruise, numerous temples in Luxor (ancient Thebes), as well as additional sites in Jordan such as Petra, Wadi Rum, and Mount Nebo! (Museum opening TBD).
Step into the narrative of the Exodus, and better understand the history, significance and people of the Text! Trip dates are Feb. 28-March 11, 2024. Registration is now open with limited space so don't delay! https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-egypt-2024
Boat at Sunset
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/50rchnaowbmsrlvu6uen5/Boat-at-Sunset.MP4?rlkey=5lbdy9kbp9l1zk2ursb2khwz0&dl=0
When in Edfu
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ocm526g59hhbttjdb05bh/When-in-Edfu.MOV?rlkey=ppzk3vjrvg5sqemavdq02hcmu&dl=0
Rich Ferreira introduces Season 4 of our GTI Tours Podcast which begins September 21. These 6 episodes will feature some familiar voices like Richard Liverance, Jerrell Jobe, and Chad Bird, as well as a few surprises. Stay tuned to hear us Bring the Land and Lessons of the Bible to Life!
Rich Ferreira and Rich Liverance recently visited Saudi Arabia. Although Mount Sinai has been identified with a mountain in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt since the 4th century A.D., several biblical passages seem to indicate that Mount Sinai is in Arabia. Could the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites have taken place in Arabia rather than Egypt?
Rich and Rich explored not only the possible Mount Horeb from Exodus 19-20, but also several other sites that align with scripture. These sites include the Split Rock (Exodus 17), the grove of 70 palm trees at Elim (Exodus 15), and an altar with bull/cow carvings on boulders at the foot of Mount Horeb (Exodus 32). Could these be the locations where Moses was commanded to strike a rock for water, where the Israelites crossed and where they worshipped the golden calf?
Regardless of the answers to these questions, exploring the backroads of this austere landscape was both exhilarating and challenging. A 4X4 vehicle is a must in the Arabian Desert. No tour buses allowed! Visit https://gtitours.org/podcast for photos, links, and more from this episode.
Bible teacher and author Marty Solomon returns to the podcast today. He and Rich discuss his new book, Asking Better Questions of the Bible.
The Bible was written to a particular people in a particular place in a particular time; we must ask the right questions to understand the authors and their audiences. This book helps us ask better questions and gives us new tools to understand the Word of God.
In addition, a level of humility is required to admit that we don't have all the answers. Deconstructing is a necessary part of the process to learn and grow as believers. Ultimately, Jesus and His Word will stand forever; we must study it faithfully and let it do its transformative work in our lives.
Visit https://gtitours.org/podcast for photos, links, and more from this episode.
To learn more about Marty Solomon, his teachings, podcast, book, go to martysolomon.com
GTI has a new staff member! It's someone you may be familiar with since he has been our podcast guest several times... Rich Liverance! Rich shares with Rich Ferreira about God's leading and perfect timing in his career journey.
We as a staff are so excited for what Rich Liverance brings to the table! His experience and expertise as a pastor, teacher, student and archaeologist will bless and benefit so many.
Visit https://gtitours.org/podcast for photos, links, and more from this episode.
Rich came to faith in Christ at the age of 15 and immediately developed a love for the Bible and a love for Israel. While still a teenager, he determined to pursue theological and biblical studies. After graduating from Georgia Tech in Atlanta, Georgia, Rich attended Dallas Theological Seminary in Dallas, Texas, earning a Master of Theology in Bible Exposition in 1992. He then pastored churches in Wyoming, New York, Texas, and Michigan. During his pastorate, he also earned a Doctor of Ministry in Expository Preaching from the Master’s Seminary in Sun Valley, CA. In 2016, Rich was invited to serve the Economic Mission of the State of Israel through the Israel Ministry of Tourism at the Israeli Consulate in Los Angeles, CA. During his time there, he connected pastors and churches as well as the travel industry in North America to Israel and Israeli travel suppliers. In 2021, Rich left the Ministry of Tourism to study at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. In 2023, Rich was awarded a master’s degree in Archaeology and Near Eastern Studies. After completing his studies in Jerusalem, Rich joined GTI Tours to assist pastors and their churches to know and experience the biblical lands as a means of furthering Christian ministry and discipleship.
Sean Glore of the 222 Foundation was on the January 2023 Pastors' Familiarization Israel trip along with several seminary students. Based on 2 Timothy 2:2, the 222 Foundation seeks to bridge the gap between seminary education and successful long-term ministry to help leaders, who will make more leaders, thrive. What better way to invest in a ministry leader than to bring them to Israel? To learn more, go to https://222foundation.org/
Bear Mills (not to be confused with Bear Grylls) was also on the trip and shares his experience. He is an author, speaker and podcaster (the Bear Mills podcast). His motto is "Nourishing HOPE in a world where hope is on the endangered species list" with a theme verse of Romans 15:13.
https://www.authorbearmills.com/
https://bearmillsauthor.libsyn.com/
If you are a pastor or Christian educator and would like to join the 2024 Familiarization Tour, follow this link for more information:
https://gtitours.org/trip/pastors-and-educators-israel-2024
Study tours are a great option for your sabbatical, continuing education, or for helping you rediscover your passion for Scripture. On a GTI Study Tour you’re not a tourist—you’re a ministry investment.
Craig Hill is an affiliate Assistant Professor of New Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary. He is also a member of the adjunct faculty at Biola University in New Testament. Hill has taught in university and seminary settings for 20 years and has served for over two decades in youth and pastoral ministries. He also works with Standing Stone Ministry, a ministry that provides pastoral care for pastors. Hill serves on the Board of Directors of Hume Lake Christian Camps, one of the largest youth camps in the nation. He has been to Israel on a number of occasions and enjoys teaching the Bible in the context of where it was written. He lives in Irvine, California with his wife Kelly and four kids.
Turkey Signature Tour led by Dr. Craig Hill September 11-22, 2023
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-turkey-2023
https://www.bibleplaces.com/sardis/
Resources mentioned in the Podcast:
Christianity in the Greco - Roman World: A Narrative Introduction by Moyer v. Hubbard
Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes: Cultural Studies in the Gospels by Kenneth E. Bailey
Paul Through Mediterranean Eyes: Cultural Studies in1 Corinthians by Kenneth E Bailey
Video links from the podcast:
- Turkey / Greece Signature video
https://vimeo.com/348185066
-Teaching at Pisidian Antioch
https://vimeo.com/336927026
-Old Loom
https://vimeo.com/336927023
-Hot Air Balloon
https://vimeo.com/336927011
Rich and Heather discuss what they learned in Israel as well as the ways they honored Dave's memory: by bringing along a 19 year-old pastor to invest in his ministry, and by planting an olive tree in the land. The Flaigs believe in the pillars of hospitality, family, community, history and legacy, and so does GTI. There is no better place to place to learn about and celebrate these than in Israel!
Heather inspires us to learn from the past, be present in the present, and invest in the future. None of us is guaranteed tomorrow, so love people today, and go to Israel now!
Visit https://gtitours.org/podcastfor photos, links, and more from this episode. If you'd like to see what Heather's trip to Israel was like, follow this link to read the trip blog with photos: https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/sungrove22
Heather Flaig is a Colorado Girl who married a California Boy named Dave. She graduated from Colorado Christian University with degrees in Liberal Arts and Youth Ministries. Dave and Heather together raised three sons, Zachary, Matthew & Joshua. Following ministry assignments in Colorado and Southern California, their family has served at Sun Grove Church since spring of 2009. Dave and Heather homeschooled their boys and had the joy of experiencing “The Ultimate Field Trip” to Israel together as a family in 2018. It was their dream to take hundreds of people to Israel to walk the Holy Land. Dave went to heaven in September of 2021, but his vision continues! We look forward to sharing the journey to Israel together.
Her next trip with Sun Grove is scheduled for December of 2024. Email monica@gtitours.org for inquiries.
Andy also talks about Ein Gedi, the oasis in the Negev desert where David hid from King Saul. This is one of many examples of "mayim chaim" (living water) and the tangible example of the Living Water of Christ. Visit https://gtitours.org/podcast for photos, links, and more from this episode.
https://www.experienceisraelnow.com
https://www.ibiblestock.org
https://www.bibleplaces.com/engedi/
Chad Bird is a Scholar in Residence at 1517. He has served as a pastor, professor, and guest lecturer in Old Testament and Hebrew. He holds master’s degrees from Concordia Theological Seminary and Hebrew Union College. He has contributed articles to Christianity Today, The Gospel Coalition, Modern Reformation, The Federalist, Lutheran Forum, and other journals and websites. He is also the author of several books, including Night Driving: Notes from a Prodigal Soul, Your God Is Too Glorious: Finding God in the Most Unexpected Places, Upside-Down Spirituality: The 9 Essential Failures of a Faithful Life, and Unveiling Mercy: 365 Daily Devotions Based on Insights from Old Testament Hebrew. He cohosts two popular podcasts: “40 Minutes in the OT” and “Hidden Streams.” Chad and his wife Stacy have four children and three grandchildren. They enjoy life together in the Texas Hill Country.
https://www.1517.org/
https://www.tiktok.com/discover/chad-bird-1517
https://www.1517.org/podcasts/40-minutes-in-the-old-testament
https://shop.1517.org/collections/books/chad-bird
Jerrell also draws a beautiful contrast between the "smiting pose" of the Pharaohs vs. the loving kindness of the shepherding God of Israel. This poses the question, "Which one do we imitate in our leadership?"
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medinet_Habu
Would you like to see Egypt for yourself and learn about the Exodus? Consider joining our "Footsteps of Moses" Signature Tour of Egypt and Jordan! The 2023 trip is already full, but please keep the 2024 trip in mind. You'll be glad you did! Follow this link to see the itinerary: https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-egypt-2023
Visit https://gtitours.org/podcastfor photos, links, and more from this episode.
If you're interested in coming to Israel and seeing some of these off-the-beaten-path sites, consider joining our "Homesick for Israel Tour"! The dates are September 3-14, 2023.View the itinerary and register here: https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-homesick-for-israel-2023
If you'd like to read the blog to learn more about the trip, follow this link: https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/signature-homesick-for-israel
Matt Bach the Pastor of Christian Development at Bridgeway Christian Church in Roseville, California. He is married with three children. He studied OT Theology in Briarcrest Bible College, holds a Masters in Theology from Fuller Seminary and is in his PhD studies in Biblical Studies through Trinity College Bristol (partnered with Univ. of Aberdeen) in England. Matt also teaches The Hebrew Bible (OT Survey) at William Jessup University as an Adjunct Faculty. He has been leading tours to Israel with GTI since 2015.
Visit https://gtitours.org/podcast for photos, links, and more from this episode.
- https://netbible.org/bible/Isaiah+58
- https://www.gotquestions.org/Sabbath-made-for-man.html
- https://store.focusonthefamily.com/that-the-world-may-know/
Would you like to experience Shabbat in Israel? Joining the September 3-14, 2023 "Homesick for Israel" Tour will allow you to do that! One of our many cultural experiences on this trip is participating in a Shabbat dinner with a Jewish family.
You will also be able to see the amazing Mehane Yehuda Market as people prepare for Shabbat. See, smell, touch and taste many examples of Israel's prized produce and treats! https://www.machne.co.il/
Learn more and register here:
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-homesick-for-israel-2023
Visit https://gtitours.org/podcast for photos, links, and more from this episode.
https://netbible.org/bible/Isaiah+58
https://www.gotquestions.org/Sabbath-made-for-man.html
JUC online class list for Spring 2023 semester:
https://www.juc.edu/juc-online/semester-learning/
Would you like to experience Shabbat in Israel? Joining the September 3-14, 2023 "Homesick for Israel" Tour will allow you to do that! One of our many cultural experiences on this trip is participating in a Shabbat dinner with a Jewish family.
You will also be able to see the amazing Mehane Yehuda Market as people prepare for Shabbat. See, smell, touch and taste many of Israel's prized produce and treats! https://www.machne.co.il/
Learn more and register here:
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-homesick-for-israel-2023
Dr. Hersey holds a Ph.D. in Old Testament Theology and an M.A. in Biblical Archaeology both from Trinity Evangelical Divinity Seminary. He is passionate about providing opportunity for students to see and understand the context of the Bible so they can grow in their relationship with God and His story. Oliver has over 15 years of experience teaching Bible in a variety of settings including youth camps, college classrooms, and churches. He and his wife Andra and their two children live in Jerusalem.
In the first episode of our new mini-series "Characters of Christmas", Pt 1: Town of Bethlehem, Brad examines some of the flawed thinking that has crept into the Christmas story.
By the end of this episode, you’ll gain new understanding and see that the town of Bethlehem welcomed Jesus with wonder!
To view the Discussion Questions for this episode, please go here http://bit.ly/characters ofchristmaspt1
If you'd like to watch this episode, go to YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/c/WalkingTheText
Follow us on Social Media:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/walkingthetext/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/walkingthetext
Website - https://walkingthetext.com/
To learn more about Brad's study tours, go to https://walkingthetext.com/study-trips/
Further Study
Lexham Geographic Commentary on the Gospels: The Birthplace of Jesus and the Journeys of His First Visitors by Paul H. Wright – Chapter 1
Lexham Geographic Commentary on the Gospels: Luke's Birth Narrative Reconstructing the Real Story – Chapter 2
Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes by Kenneth E. Bailey – Chapters 1-4
Encountering Jesus in the Real World of the Gospels by Cyndi Parker – Chapter 6
Rose Then and Now Bible Map Atlasby Paul H. Wright – Chapter 19
Advent Part 1 (Context Matters Podcast) by Cyndi Parker (with Paul H. Wright) – Dec 10, 2020
Brad Gray has lived and has traveled extensively to the biblical lands and has been leading study trips since 2010. He is a national speaker, published author, former teaching pastor, and the Founder and Executive Director of Walking The Text. He has a BA in Business Management from Cornerstone University, a Masters of Divinity from Western Theological Seminary, and has done additional graduate work at Jerusalem University College in Israel. Brad and his wife, Shallon, live with their four children in Nashville, Tennessee.
The holidays are quickly approaching! If you'd like to order one or more of these titles for the littles in your life, follow this link:
https://www.freshwindstudios.com
https://www.bibleplaces.com/bethlehem/
Watch trailers for the books here:
https://youtu.be/YOFj4VJI3dU
https://youtu.be/gr4vBp_mLJg
https://youtu.be/SVqif689uWg
As parents of two small children, Eric and Meredith Schrotenboer created Fresh Wind Studios out of the desire for them to fall more in love with God’s words. They quickly realized resources that put the Bible stories into their correct context were hard to find.
Eric is a Bible teacher who leads study trips to the lands of the Bible, teaching people the cultural, historical, and geographical context in which it was written. Eric and Meredith know that context matters. The “pictures” that we teach our children will stick with them and shape their faith for the rest of their lives. Fresh Wind Studios both publishes and works with publishing partners to create and distribute a variety of resources to help children and families learn the context of God’s words.
Eric and Meredith are both storytellers at heart. Eric is an award winning filmmaker, and an award winning composer. His ministry is The Acacia Project. Meredith is a morning show news anchor and a certified Enneagram coach.
ericschrotenboer.com
www.meredithterhaar.com
theacaciaproject.com
thewanderingwisemen.com
Social:
@ericschrotenboer
@wanderingwisemen
@freshwindstudios
Casey also teaches on Shiloh (pronounced SHEE-LOW in Hebrew), a biblical site where the Ark of God rested for over 300 years. Like Casey's teaching? Join her on her trip to Israel November 5-16, 2023 and check out her website!
https://gtitours.org/trip/96bb493c-82bc-4a43-bf74-5b7c7e000f8f
www.caseyjordan.com
https://www.bibleplaces.com/shiloh/
Next year's Homesick for Israel Tour dates are September 3-15, 2023. Registration now open! If you'd like to read the blog from the previous trip to learn more, visit:
https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/signature-homesick-for-israel-2022
For the past two decades, Matt Davis has been married to his beautiful wife Marilee (the story of them meeting is fantastic!), and together they have three outstanding kids. Matt is a graduate of BIOLA University and Talbot School of Theology. After serving in a church for the past two decades as a Teaching and Executive Pastor, he started The Jewish Road with his dad (the guy below). One of Matt’s greatest joys in life is bringing families on legacy trips to the Middle East to teach them about the roots of their faith.
https://www.thejewishroad.com
Ron Davis is husband to the beautiful Kay and the grand patriarch of a whole tribe of kids and grandkids. Ron has too many post-graduate degrees (Talbot School of Theology) to count, but his main passion in life is sharing the gospel with Jewish people. When he first met Jesus as His Jewish Messiah in his twenties, it changed everything for him! Ron's mission is to equip the church to know the roots of their faith and to share the gospel with his Jewish brethren.
Melissa’s story is a great example of how a trip to Israel can be a springboard for your faith and personal Bible study. Perhaps most inspirational is her challenge to loosen our grip on our passions and plans. It's so easy to get carried away with doing things "for Jesus" that we lose focus on the fundamentals of following and obeying Him.
Melissa's recommended resources:
“Sitting at the Feet of the Rabbi Jesus” by Lois Tverberg
“Listening to the Language of the Bible: Hearing it Through Jesus’ Ears” by Lois Tverberg and Bruce Okkema
“Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes: Removing Cultural Blinders to Better Understand the Bible” by E. Randolph Richards and Brandon J. O’Brien
“Sabbath” by Abraham Joshua Heschel
Jewish Study Bible and commentaries
Read some of Melissa's writing at:
https://bringingshalomtoday.wordpress.com/
Purchase one of our 30th Anniversary photo books at
https://gtitours.org/book
Is it safe? Is it comfortable? Is COVID still a factor? Bad jetlag? How's the food? Becky answers these questions and more from her perspective as a wife, mother, and traveler. She also gives some great descriptions of the Ferreira's Favorites: Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba, the Dead Sea, and Mount Nebo. Seeing the Bible come to life will be a treasured memory for their family. We can trust God and His plan no matter where our travels may lead us!
Visit https://gtitours.org/podcast for photos, links, and more from this episode.
https://www.bibleplaces.com/petra/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wadi_Rum
https://www.bibleplaces.com/aqaba/
https://www.bibleplaces.com/gerasa/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Nebo
- https://archaeology.huji.ac.il/tel-abel-beth-maacah
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abel-beth-maachah
- https://www.bibleplaces.com/hazor/
- https://christiananswers.net/dictionary/hazor.html
View the Hope in the Holy Land trailer
https://hopeintheholyland.com
https://www.graftedministries.com
View the Promise Land trailer
Todd's bio:
Todd Morehead is the Founder and Director of Grafted Ministries and is from Southern California, where he lives with his wife and four children. He is a graduate of Talbot Seminary with a M.A. in Biblical & Theological Studies and has over twenty years of experience in ministry.
Ever since Todd can remember, he’s had a love for the Jewish people and the land of Israel. He became a believer at a very young age and with that decision, the love of Israel followed suit.
In his earlier years, Todd worked for a couple different Christian organizations, but regardless of the task at hand, the Jewish people were always on his heart and mind. Wherever he went, it was as if he had a magnetic pull towards the Jewish people, which always led to new friendships.
In his early twenties, Todd realized there was a problem; not all Christians share God’s love for Israel and the Jewish people. Being convinced by the Scriptures that the Jews are not just another people group Christians can choose to cultivate a heart for, his vision sharpened and he began to laser in on helping Christians understand their role with God’s chosen people. Grafted Ministries was birthed out of this focus.
Whether it’s the films or study guides he creates, or the Israel trips he leads—where he has been about thirty times, Todd’s aim is to awaken Christians to God’s purpose for them with the Jewish people.
Photos by Justin Kron
Dr. Hersey holds a Ph.D. in Old Testament Theology and an M.A. in Biblical Archaeology both from Trinity Evangelical Divinity Seminary. He is passionate about providing opportunity for students to see and understand the context of the Bible so they can grow in their relationship with God and His story. Oliver has over 15 years of experience teaching Bible in a variety of settings including youth camps, college classrooms, and churches. He and his wife Andra and their two children live in Jerusalem.
Summer Institute Webpage: https://juc.edu/juc-online/summer-institute
Summer Institute Registration Page: https://connect.juc.edu/register/summer-institute-2022
JUC Summer Institute 6-week sessions
Egypt and the Bible with Egyptologist Dr. James K. Hoffmeier
- After Israel, Egypt is mentioned more than any other nation in the OT, and within its territory, the two greatest events of salvation history occurred, namely the Exodus and the Sinai theophany and covenant ceremony. This course seeks to investigate these events in their historical and geographical contexts. After the exodus, Israel continued to have political and military dealings until the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC. Thereafter, Egypt served as a place of refuge for Judeans. These events of the Iron age will be investigated through Egyptian archaeological sources.
Jewish Context of Jesus and the New Testament with Dr. Joel Willitts & Dr. Oliver Hersey
- The course is a brief survey of the history, archaeology, culture, and literature of Second Temple Judaism, the context of Jesus, and the New Testament. Students will be introduced to the key events of the Jewish story and significant people who shaped that story, deepening their appreciation for Jesus’ life, ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension.
Geographical Lenses on Ezekiel with Dr. Elaine Phillips & Dr. Perry Phillips
- Studying Ezekiel, who prophesied from exile, requires expanding our focus beyond the geographical boundaries of the promised Land. This brief introduction will address Ezekiel’s messages to the communities in Jerusalem and in Babylon in the grim final years of the first temple. Join us as we explore Judah’s idolatry, the covenant sanctions, the oracles against surrounding foreign nations, the hope God’s people found in his promised forthcoming justice, and the visions of renewal – realities we might call eschatological geography.
This story is an adaptation of the Shema, God's centerpiece prayer for his people from Deuteronomy 6:4-9:
"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."
Order Hear, O Little One wherever books are sold, including Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Barnes and Noble.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/Hear-Little-One-Morning-Evening/dp/0736983651/ref=sr_1_1?crid=26WHSPM2DA4EH&keywords=hear+o+little+one&qid=1644540736&sprefix=hear+o+little+%2Caps%2C106&sr=8-1
Trailer #1:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4kdSWWAA4U3a04M2riX7-Q
Trailer #2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pkviS_juArw
To learn more about the Schrotenboer's first project, The Wandering Wise Men Activity Set, go podcast #31 or to https://www.freshwindstudios.com/thewanderingwisemen
Context is key to understanding the ancient world, so that is the focus of Brad's annual conference, the Infusion Bible Conference. Even if you can't be there in person, the good news is that the material is now available online! Virtual registration includes a plethora of notes, insights, timelines, and resources, all in one convenient place! Whether you attend in person or online, the goal is to help you grow not only in your knowledge of the Bible but in faithfulness.
Infusion Conference Digital Download
https://infusionbibleconference.com/collections/conference-downloads
https://infusionbibleconference.com
Brad Gray has traveled extensively to the biblical lands of Israel, Turkey, Jordan, Egypt, and Greece, and has been leading study trips to Israel and Turkey since 2010. He is a national speaker, published author (Make Your Mark: Getting Right What Samson Got Wrong), and former teaching pastor, with over 10 years of experience serving in multiple local churches. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Cornerstone University (Grand Rapids, Michigan), a Masters of Divinity from Western Theological Seminary (Holland, Michigan), and has done additional graduate work at Jerusalem University College (Jerusalem, Israel). Brad and his wife, Shallon, live with their four children in Nashville, Tennessee.
https://walkingthetext.com/
Mark L. Strauss (PhD, University of Aberdeen) is professor of New Testament at Bethel Seminary San Diego. He is the author or coauthor of several books and numerous articles, including How to Read the Bible in Changing Times, Four Portraits, One Jesus: An Introduction to Jesus and the Gospels, How to Choose a Translation for All It's Worth (with Gordon D. Fee), The Essential Bible Companion (with John Walton), and commentaries on Mark's Gospel in the Zondervan Exegetical Commentary Series and Expositors Bible Commentary, Vol. 9.
He is New Testament editor of the Expanded Bible and the Teach the Text Commentary Series. He also serves as vice-chair of the Committee for Bible Translation for the New International Version and as an associate editor for the NIV Study Bible. Strauss has a heart for ministry and preaches and teaches regularly at churches, conferences, and college campuses. He is the weekly teacher at the Cove Bible Study at The Church at Rancho Bernardo. He lives in San Diego with his wife, Roxanne, and three kids.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miletus
https://www.bibleplaces.com/capernaum/
https://www.zondervan.com/9780310528593/introducing-jesus/
Video of inscription in Miletus
https://www.dropbox.com/s/iioh9i4abd5dk31/Inscription%20at%20Miletus.mov?dl=0
Mark teaching in Miletus
https://vimeo.com/103525372
Mark teaching on Revelation 3
https://vimeo.com/103448364
Mark teaching at Ephesus
https://vimeo.com/103512147
Lexham Geographic Commentary on the Gospelshttps://www.christianbook.com/lexham-geographic-commentary-on-the-gospels/barry-beitzel/9781683590446/pd/590446?en=google&event=SHOP&kw=academic-20-40%7C590446&p=1179710&dv=m&gclid=Cj0KCQjwm9yJBhDTARIsABKIcGZJHvW5dz4wXw1GFgg_a1MbBww3w4cSudXde_uWCXfDNgYofnrxu_caAl0XEALw_wcB
The Essential Bible Companion: Key Insights for Reading God's Word
https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Bible-Companion-Insights-Reading/dp/0310266629
CHRISTOPHER D. STANLEY is a professor at St. Bonaventure University who studies the social and religious history of the Greco-Roman world, with special attention to early Christianity and Judaism. He has written or edited six books and dozens of professional articles on the subject and presents papers regularly at conferences around the world. The trilogy A Slave’s Story, which grew out of his historical research on first-century Asia Minor, is his first work of fiction. He is currently working on an academic book that explores healing practices in the Greco-Roman world, a subject that plays a vital role in this series.
"The Past is a foreign country. They do things differently there." L.P. Hartley
https://www.aslavesstory.com
The photos in the show notes depict the Asclepion (hospital/healing center) in Pergamum
https://www.bestturkeytour.com/asclepion-pergamon-turkey/
A few principles of GTI Tours that are mentioned...
- God is in the business of restoration
- God is our CEO
- "If it's God's will, it's God's bill"
- You can't out-give God
- A GTI Tour is not a product but an experience
Part 1 was released on Thursday, December 23 so we encourage you to go back and listen if you missed it!
Visit https://gtitours.org/podcast for photos, links, and more from this episode.
This podcast is a repeat from our original release January 14, 2021
This week’s episode is extra special as our GM Rich Ferreira interviews our company Vice President and former GM, Tom Harrington. Rich and Tom answer some age-old questions such as, “What does GTI stand for?” and “How did this company begin?”
Listen as Tom shares the story of his experience in the travel industry, his personal loss, and how God wove the pieces of his past into a new and different plan, a plan that included GTI Tours. Part 1 will be released on Thursday, December 23 followed by Part 2 on Thursday, December 30. Tracing the path of God’s hand in a person’s life can bring much hope and encouragement, and that is our New Year’s wish for each of you!
Cost is $59.95. For a limited time, all pre-orders receive free shipping within the continental U.S.! All proceeds go toward our Trip Scholarship Fund.
Check off your shopping list and at the same time, support some of our partners in the Land, like Johnny from Bethlehem at https://johnnysouvenir.com/ or Israeli guide Nadav at https://promisesofglory.com/
Homesick for Israel video:
https://vimeo.com/418114134
To learn more about the Homesick for Israel Tour in August of 2022, follow this link:
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-homesick-for-israel
To give back to our guides and drivers, go to: https://gtitours.org/giving-back#tcs
To see our recommended resources, go to
https://gtitours.org/resources#tcs
Donate $25 or more and receive a free GTI t-shirt (see attached images)! *while supplies last
To listen to previous podcasts, such as #38 and #39 as mentioned, go to https://gtitours.org/podcast#tcs
Links to recommended resources:
- Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes by Kenneth Bailey
- IVP Bible Background Commentary by Craig Keener
- Jesus the Middle Eastern Storyteller by Gary Burge
- The Bible and the Land by Gary Burge
- A week in the life of a Roman Centurion by Gary Burge
Originally from Southern California, Gary was an undergraduate at the University of California, Riverside, and The American University of Beirut, Lebanon. He attended Fuller Theological Seminary and King's College, The University of Aberdeen, Scotland. In Scotland he studied with I. Howard Marshall earning a Ph.D. in New Testament. He served on the faculties of King College (Tennessee), North Park University (Illinois) and after 25 years at Wheaton College (Illinois) he joined the faculty of Calvin Theological Seminary (Michigan) in 2017.
Gary speaks widely in churches and conferences both in the United States and in various countries. He has traveled extensively, particularly in the Middle East. He is ordained in the Presbyterian Church, USA, and served as a military chaplain (USNR). For over 15 years he was a regular teacher at Willow Creek Community Church in S. Barrington, IL.
LIVE FROM ISRAEL: RICH AND RONEN! Rich interviews Israeli guide and friend, Ronen Ben Moshe during their tour with the Well Church. While sipping coffee at the Sea of Galilee, the two discuss "the new normal" of traveling during these days. Despite a few added hoops to jump through, the opportunity to travel makes it all worth it. 96 out of 96 trip participants agree: coming to the Holy Land is ALWAYS a good idea! Visit https://gtitours.org/podcast for photos, links, and more from this episode.
Trip blog
https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/signature-turkey
Blanket maker video
https://vimeo.com/336927023
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ephesus
https://www.bibleplaces.com/ephesus/
Erik Thoennes is a professor of theology and the chair of the theology department at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University as well as a pastor at Grace Evangelical Free Church in La Mirada, California. His wife Donna also teaches at Biola University as an adjunct professor.
Resource:
Church History in Plain Language (updated 4th edition)
by Bruce Shelley (Author)
https://www.amazon.com/Church-History-Plain-Language-Fourth/dp/1401676316
If you are not already registered for a biblical study tour, please visit our website at https://gtitours.org/schedule
Our Signature Tours are especially popular and the choices include:
Israel and Jordan Signature Tour
Sept. 25-October 7, 2021
Turkey/Greece Signature Tour
October 11-24, 2021
Egypt, Jordan and Israel Signature Tour
Feb. 25-March 10, 2022
Homesick for Israel Signature Tour
August 28-Sept. 8, 2022
Now that work is picking back up for the GTI staff, we will continue to release new podcast episodes but less often. Be sure to go back and listen to any you may have missed along the way! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for our latest news, interesting articles and stunning photos! See below for our list of available tours and feel free to contact our office if you have any questions at (616) 369-1234 or (800) 829-8234.
View Upcoming Signature Tours
Originally from the great nation of Texas, Shea grew up in a broken home, far from the Lord, before surrendering his life to Jesus while in high school. After experiencing a radical spiritual transformation in college, he would eventually go on to receive degrees from the University of North Texas and Dallas Theological Seminary. During that time he married his beautiful bride of 20 years, Tiffany, and together have five precious daughters-- Emma, Sara, Rebekah, Abigail, & Hannah. Shea spent nearly a decade serving as the college pastor of Denton Bible Church in Denton, TX, then as teaching pastor for The Well Community Church in Fresno, CA & campus pastor for The Village Church in Flower Mound, TX. Today, Shea serves as the Lead Pastor of Northway Church in Dallas, TX. He has a deep passion for teaching the Word of God and spreading the Gospel through the local church.
https://www.bibleplaces.com/nahalzin/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ein_Avdat
Northway Trip Blog
https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/northway21
For the first time GTI Tours’ history, we have hand-crafted a study tour designed specifically for those who have been to Israel before. This tour is created to give the Homesick a chance to return Home, to revisit the Land and to learn new Lessons from her, to bring new chapters of the Bible to Life!
Not only will this itinerary include new sites but also new experiences: getting your hands dirty on an archaeological dig, shopping at the Mahane Yehuda Market, taking in the vivid colors of the Baha'i Gardens. Spiritual moments will abound at significant cities such as Bethel, Shiloh, and Mount Gerizim and at a traditional Shabbat dinner. Get reacquainted with the Old City of Jerusalem and the quiet waves of the Sea of Galilee.
Ronen will be personally leading this tour! He has been guiding in Israel since 1994 and has lead hundreds of tours throughout the land. He holds a master’s degree in Middle Eastern history from the Hebrew University as well as vast knowledge of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. On this tour, Ronen will be your encyclopedia, companion, servant, and friend. Registration is open!
Bonus material: Ronen walks us through the preparation of two signature Israeli dishes, hummus and shakshuka!
Hummus Video
https://vimeo.com/455962186
Shakshuka Video
https://vimeo.com/455961456
Homesick for Israel Video
https://vimeo.com/418114134
Matthew 23:37
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew+23%3A37&version=NIV
Sea of Galilee
https://www.bibleplaces.com/seagalilee/
Ronen's Famous Hummus
https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/455962186
A big part of becoming a trip leader is joining our annual Pastor's Familiarization Trip. Every January, GTI takes a group of pastors and ministry leaders to Israel at a discounted rate to benefit their ministries and to also prepare them to bring groups back! This year's trip is January 10-21, 2022. Registration is open! Pastor's Fam 2022 trip link: https://gtitours.org/trip/pastors-and-educators-israel-2022
- To find out what a Fam trip is like, read the blog from Pastor's Fam 2020:
https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/pastors-and-educators-israel - Luke for Everyone (The New Testament for Everyone) by N.T. Wright.
- A dramatic interpretation of the road to Emmaus story:
Troy Thomas is a trip leader and retired pastor from CrossWay Church in Germantown, Wisconsin. After many years serving in pastoral ministry at several Milwaukee-area churches, Troy retired from vocational ministry in 2021. Troy continues to serve the local church where his heart’s desire is to preach the Gospel, teach the Bible, build up leaders, and make disciples who make disciples. Prior to vocational ministry, he spent 18 years in business as a management consultant.
Troy has a bachelor’s degree from Northern Iowa, an MBA from George Washington University, a Masters in Christian Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and a Master’s in Divinity from Rockbridge Seminary. Troy and his wife Liz have been married for over 30 years and are blessed by three adult children, a daughter-in-law, and many nieces and nephews. They reside in Sussex, Wisconsin.
In addition to his family, his vocational ministry, and his local community, Troy leads trips to Israel that focus on Biblical study and exposition in the original setting. Troy believes that true Biblical understanding must be rooted in the history, geography, culture, and language of the original context. And Troy’s prayer is that these trips will lead people to make life-changing applications from the teaching of Jesus Christ.
Ariel was born and raised in a Jewish community in Finland then moved to Israel as an adult. He lived in Jerusalem for 16 years and became interested in guiding tours. Ariel speaks four languages (Finnish, Swedish, Hebrew and English) and has been guiding groups through Israel for 30 years. He loves to spend time in Jerusalem and in the Judean desert. His name means "Lion of God" in Hebrew.
Books
- Feasts and Holidays of the Bible
- Christ in the Feast of Tabernacles
Craig Hill returns as our guest today on the podcast. Craig and our Rich discuss GTI's upcoming Signature Tour of Turkey and Greece, October 11-24. They walk through the scheduled itinerary (featuring over two dozen sites) and describe some of the highlights of these two amazing countries! In addition to following the footsteps of the Apostle Paul, this tour offers a hot air balloon ride in Turkey, wine tasting in Greece, and some amazing local hospitality. Registration is open! Visit https://gtitours.org/podcast for photos, links, and more from this episode.
Craig Hill is an affiliate Assistant Professor of New Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary. He is also a member of the adjunct faculty at Biola University in New Testament. Hill has taught in university and seminary settings for 18 years and has served for over two decades in youth and pastoral ministries. He also works with Standing Stone Ministry, a ministry that provides pastoral care for pastors. Hill serves on the Board of Directors of Hume Lake Christian Camps, one of the largest youth camps in the nation. He has been to Israel on a number of occasions and enjoys teaching the Bible in the context of where it was written. He lives in Irvine, California with his wife Kelly and four kids.
Turkey / Greece Signature Tour led by Dr. Craig Hill Oct 11-24, 2021
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-turkey
Resources mentioned in the Podcast
- Christianity in the Greco - Roman World: A Narrative Introduction by Moyer v. Hubbard
- Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes: Cultural Studies in the Gospels by Kenneth E. Bailey
- Paul Through Mediterranean Eyes: Cultural Studies in1 Corinthians by Kenneth E Bailey
Video links from the podcast
- Turkey / Greece Signature video: https://vimeo.com/348185066
- Teaching at Pisidian Antioch: https://vimeo.com/336927026
- Old Loom: https://vimeo.com/336927023
- Hot Air Balloon: https://vimeo.com/336927011
Richard refers to Psalm 2, Micah 5 and Ezekiel 5:5 “This is what the Sovereign Lord says: This is Jerusalem, which I have set in the center of the nations, with countries all around her."
Jonathan Greer and his wife Jennifer have enjoyed learning and teaching the Story of the Bible together in a variety of contexts in the Middle East for nearly two decades. They are faculty members at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary where Jonathan serves as Associate Professor of Old Testament and Director of the Hesse Archaeological Lab and Jennifer as Adjunct Instructor of Bible with a New Testament focus. Together they lead an annual study tour course in cooperation with GTI to the lands of the Bible as well as courses in biblical interpretation and background studies. Jonathan holds M.A. degrees in Old Testament and Biblical Languages from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. from The Pennsylvania State University where he focused on Hebrew Bible, ancient Near Eastern studies, and archaeology. He is also the Associate Director of archaeological excavations at Tel Dan, Israel, and has published a number of works on the relationship of the Bible to the ancient world. The Greer's reside in Grand Rapids, Michigan with their three children.
Each year, Dr. Greer and his wife Jennifer lead our Signature Tour of Egypt, Jordan & Israel. Follow the link below to learn more:
Egypt Signature Tour
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-egypt
Egypt Promo Video
https://vimeo.com/304959706
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramesseum
David has been married to Kathleen since 1980. The Garretts have two married daughters, Virginia (Joshua) and Monica (Noah) and four little friends (grandchildren).
Jews for Jesus Website
Information on Shavuot
Shavuot (Pentecost)
Information on the different feasts of Israel
The Feasts of Israel
The devotional starts on December 1 and goes through January 6th, which is Epiphany. The devotional is written so children can understand it, but shares many cultural, historical and geographical details that adults will love. It’s an awesome way for families to engage with the Christmas story like never before!
The activity set is available for preorder during the month of May only. Here is the link:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/thewanderingwisemen/the-wandering-wise-men-a-christmas-tradition
Dr. Hersey holds a Ph.D. in Old Testament Theology and an M.A. in Biblical Archaeology both from Trinity Evangelical Divinity Seminary. He is passionate about providing opportunity for students to see and understand the context of the Bible so they can grow in their relationship with God and His story. Oliver has over 15 years of experience teaching Bible in a variety of settings including youth camps, college classrooms, and churches. He and his wife Andra and their two children Henry and Penelope, are in the process of moving to Jerusalem.
Learning about the ibex:
https://www.bibleplaces.com/southernwildlife/
Jerusalem University College Online Summer Institute is a virtual study experience where expert scholars bring the lands, cultures, languages, and history of the Bible to your own corner of the world. Starting this May, JUC is offering three intensive studies, each composed of six engaging lectures taught by JUC instructors – individuals who have spent extensive time living and working in the Middle East. All studies are taught live online with interactive elements incorporated throughout each lecture. You can find more information at juc.edu/juc-online-summer-institute.
Jesus the Galilean
Dr. Wave Nunnally
$159
Reading Psalms Geographically
Instructor: Dr. Paul Wright
$159
What Archaeology Can and Cannot Tell Us About the Bible
Instructor: Dr. Chris McKinny
$159
Eric studied Bible, Music, and Communication at Hope College, Messianic Judaism at Denver Seminary, and received his Masters of Divinity from Western Theological Seminary. He has a passion to help people better understand and fall more deeply in love with the Text. This mission began as Eric realized that people stop reading their Bibles because they don't understand the context of what they are reading. As Eric studied the Bible in its context, the words on the pages came alive. For him, it is a tremendous privilege to teach and help others see the "pictures" in the Text. Eric and his wife Meredith live in Grand Rapids, Michigan with their two children, Meryn and Judah.
ericschrotenboer.com
theacaciaproject.com
thewanderingwisemen.com
Social:
@ericschrotenboer
@wanderingwisemen
@freshwindstudios
Brian Haynes (D.Min) is Lead Pastor at Bay Area Church and Christian School where he shepherds people, preaches and teaches, and stewards the vision of restoring people, families, and churches. Brian is an avid learner, hiker, and disciple-maker having led hundreds of people to experience the ancient paths of the Bible in Israel. He has authored a few books and is a well known conference speaker. He and his wife Angela and their three daughters live in Houston, Texas.
http://brianhaynes.org/
https://bayarea.church
https://www.bibleplaces.com/capernaum/
https://www.bibleplaces.com/blog/2009/08/capernaum-synagogue-then-and-now/
Crossings Community Church is a church committed to discipleship. Terry has spent the last 22 years teaching the Bible as part of that commitment. His knowledge of scripture, history, and culture along with his talent for bringing understanding and application make a powerful combination. Terry’s motto of “making the Bible come alive” takes on a new meaning in the context of the land of Israel. He and his wife, Laura, have led multiple trips to the Land and look forward to returning each time.
-ESV Bible Atlas
- "Counterfeit Gods" by Tim Keller
Matt's perspective as a Messianic Jew gives understanding to symbols such as the lamb, leaven, bread, and wine. In addition, he explains his vision for "The Jewish Road", a new venture to help both Christians and Jews alike fill the gap between their faiths. (Scripture references: Luke 22:15; Matthew 26:17-30; Exodus 19:4-6; Psalm 77:16-20)
Passover blog post by Matt
https://www.thejewishroad.com/blog/tenthofnisan
The Jewish Road Website
www.thejewishroad.com
The Pyramids of Giza
https://www.bibleplaces.com/giza/
Eric has been in ministry for over 20 years and has led 6 study trips to Israel with GTI Tours. He and his wife, Bea, have two teenage daughters, Grace and Ella.
Learn more about Shiloh at: https://www.bibleplaces.com/shiloh/
Learn more about Tel Dan at:
https://www.bibleplaces.com/dan/
Read some blog posts from one of Eric's past trips:
https://gtitours.org/tour-journal/calvarychurch
The three types of desert are:
MIDBAR (Isaiah 43:19) - survivable, where shepherds graze their flocks, small amounts of water and vegetation
TSIA (Psalm 105) - more harsh and rugged, less vegetation, requires hospitality to survive
YESHEMON (Psalm 68) - little to no vegetation, extreme conditions, not survivable
Matt delights in preparing the way for Jesus in the lives of men and women. One of his favorite ways of doing that is by leading groups to Israel - something he has been doing since 2008. Matt has been serving in full-time ministry since 2000 and is currently on staff at Christ Chapel Bible Church in Fort Worth, Texas where he serves as the West Campus Pastor. Matt earned his Bachelor’s degree at Texas Christian University, and a Master’s degree at Dallas Theological Seminary. He is married to his wife, Darcie, and together they are raising three children.
One of Matt's websites that has pictures of the Holy Land
www.thescripturepictures.com
Matt's website with Israel trip information
www.matthewdlantz.com
Talked about the resource Biblical Backgrounds
https://www.biblicalbackgrounds.com
Talked about Discipleship / Gap Year programs
Forge
https://www.pinecove.com/forge/
Joshua Wilderness Institute
https://hume.org/joshua/home/
One Life Institute
https://www.onelifepath.org
TEXT: "Get the Bible IN YOU"
COMMUNITY: "Together on purpose"
DISCIPLESHIP: "Come, follow me... as I follow Christ"
WRESTLING: "I want to know You. I want more out of this."
In 2008, Marty Solomon had the incredible opportunity to travel to Israel and study under Ray Vander Laan with GTI Tours. The experience changed his life forever. It seemed as though every mental image he had been given throughout his life was discarded and replaced by the things he saw and learned. Having a passion for historical context, Marty has spent the last decade pouring over the study of the world of Jesus and the ancient community of God’s people.
Marty serves as the President of Impact Campus Ministries and runs an intensive discipleship program (called BEMA Discipleship) where he gets to share this experience with many of his students. Marty is married to the love of his life, Rebekah, and has lived in Idaho since birth. They have two children (Abigail and Ezekiel) and currently reside in Moscow, Idaho, where Marty works on the campuses of the University of Idaho and Washington State University. Marty received his undergraduate degree from Boise Bible College with honors in 2005.
www.BEMAdiscipleship.com
www.impactcampusministries.com
https://www.amazon.com/Satellite-Bible-William-Schlegel-2013-05-03/dp/B01F9QA5IQ
Ronen Ben Moshe has lived and studied extensively in Israel and speaks several languages. He is married, has one son and has been partnering with GTI Tours for more than 14 years. One of Ronen's hobbies is cooking; watch the links below for two Israeli recipes you can try in your own kitchen!
How to cook Shakshuka video
https://vimeo.com/gtitours/review/455961456/7d7248bf6a
How to cook Hummus video
https://vimeo.com/gtitours/review/455962186/251f7b3bee
Matt Davis is a third-generation Messianic Jew. That means that through blood he is Jewish, but also believes in Jesus as His Jewish Messiah. For more than two decades, Matt has been leading trips to the Middle East, walking ancient paths and creating new memories through countries like Turkey, Egypt, Jordan and Israel. These tours have been with private family groups and large church gatherings where he served as a teaching pastor. Through these experiences, and others like them, Matt has built an extensive network of friendships both here and abroad. Matt recently moved to Lexington, Kentucky with his wife of 18 years, Marilee. Together they have three children, Noah, Jed, and a spicy redhead named Karis. He enjoys kayaking, playing guitar, reading, sampling fancy new foods, and traveling at every opportunity.
https://www.legacyisraeltours.com/ - Website to bring families to Israel
https://www.thewildernessgeneration.com/ - Blog site talking through the story of the wilderness generation
Jerash in Jordan: https://www.bibleplaces.com/gerasa/
Matt taught on Mt Nebo - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Nebo
A native of Fresno, California, Brad Bell attended Fresno State University as a star athlete before receiving his Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary. In 2002, he started The Well Community Church in Fresno, which is now a large, multi-site church.
Bell has been sought after as a speaker for camps and conferences around the world. He and his bride Jen have been married since 1998, and they have two daughters, Peyton and Kendall.
Jordan / Israel Signature Tour: https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-israel
https://www.bibleplaces.com/nahalzin/
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+1&version=NIV
Israeli guide Ronen gives us an archaeological update on the Western wall, specifically the renovations being made at the southern end at Robinson's Arch.
Matt Bach the Pastor of Christian Development at Bridgeway Christian Church in Roseville, California. He is married with three children. He studied OT Theology in Briarcrest Bible College, holds a Masters in Theology from Fuller Seminary and is in his PhD studies in Biblical Studies through Trinity College Bristol (partnered with Univ. of Aberdeen) in England. Matt also teaches The Hebrew Bible (OT Survey) at William Jessup University as an Adjunct Faculty. He has been leading tours to Israel with GTI since 2015.
Craig Hill is an affiliate Assistant Professor of New Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary. He is also a member of the adjunct faculty at Biola University in New Testament. Hill has taught in university and seminary settings for 18 years and has served for over two decades in youth and pastoral ministries. He also works with Standing Stone Ministry, a ministry that provides pastoral care for pastors. Hill serves on the Board of Directors of Hume Lake Christian Camps, one of the largest youth camps in the nation. He has been to Israel on a number of occasions and enjoys teaching the Bible in the context of where it was written. He lives in Irvine, California with his wife Kelly and four kids.
Turkey / Greece Signature Tour led by Dr. Craig Hill Oct 11-24, 2021
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-turkey
Resources mentioned in the Podcast
Christianity in the Greco - Roman World: A Narrative Introduction by Moyer v. Hubbard
Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes: Cultural Studies in the Gospels by Kenneth E. Bailey
Paul Through Mediterranean Eyes: Cultural Studies in1 Corinthians by Kenneth E Bailey
Video links from the podcast
- Turkey / Greece Signature video
https://vimeo.com/348185066
-Teaching at Pisidian Antioch
https://vimeo.com/336927026
-Old Loom
https://vimeo.com/336927023
-Hot Air Balloon
https://vimeo.com/336927011
This week we're back with Part 2 of the GTI Story with company VP and former GM Tom Harrington. Last week Rich and Tom covered the history of GTI Tours and delved into Tom's life story. This episode includes God's redemptive work in Tom's life and family, as well as some entertaining stories from his travels over the years.
A few principles of GTI Tours that are mentioned...
- God is in the business of restoration
- God is our CEO
- "If it's God's will, it's God's bill"
- You can't out-give God
- A GTI Tour is not a product but an experience
Part 1 was released on Thursday, January 14 so we encourage you to go back and listen if you missed it!
Visit https://gtitours.org/podcast for photos, links, and more from this episode.
Listen as Tom shares the story of his experience in the travel industry, his personal loss, and how God wove the pieces of his past into a new and different plan, a plan that included GTI Tours. Part 1 will be released on Thursday, January 14 followed by Part 2 on Thursday, January 21. Tracing the path of God’s hand in a person’s life can bring much hope and encouragement, and that is our New Year’s wish for each of you!
His favorite places in Israel include the Galilee region, Ein Gedi, and sites in the Shephelah such as Gezer, Azekah, and Bet Guvrin. Qasr el Yahud holds special meaning as it was the place where the Israelites crossed as well as where Christ was baptized. Richard even had the unique opportunity to see inside Jerusalem's Temple Mount (photos attached). Richard is also a featured participant in our Signature Tour promo video (see link).
https://vimeo.com/304959706
https://www.bibleplaces.com/templemount/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qasr_al-Yahud
GTI Jordan/Israel Signature Tour (Sep. 25 - Oct. 7, 2021)
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-israel
GTI Egypt/Jordan/Israel Signature Tour (Feb. 25 - Mar. 10, 2022)
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-egypt
Dan brings a great deal to the table with his education in Israeli history, biology, theology and Christian history. He also speaks several languages (Hebrew, English, Arabic and Spanish). Dan is married with three children and has been partnering with GTI for five years. His favorite region in Israel is the desert, specifically Ein Gedi where David hid from King Saul.
GTI study resources
https://gtitours.org/resources
GTI Giving Back
https://gtitours.org/giving-back
Jerrell Jobe serves as Teaching Pastor at Palm Valley Church in Mission, Texas. He has been involved in ministry for the past 25 years. Jerrell’s has a BS in American Sign Language Interpreting and a MA in Spiritual Formation and Leadership. He is currently pursuing a MA in Archaeology & Biblical History. Jerrell is passionate about bringing Scripture to life, and believes that one of the best ways to do that is by walking the Land where the Story transpired. His on-site teaching is a rich mixture of archaeological discoveries, biblical history, practical application, story-telling and drama. Jerrell is married to Charissa and they have three children, Micah, Naylah and Avi.
Giving Back
https://gtitours.org/giving-back
GTI Turkey / Greece Signature Tour
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-turkey
Rob has been teaching the Bible for more than 30 years. In 2018 he decided to leave a successful career as a software executive to pursue it full time. His first stop was Israel, where he received a Graduate Certificate in Biblical History and Geography from Jerusalem University College in May 2019. Rob is currently completing an MA in Old Testament at Abilene Christian University. Rob has been married to his wife, Amy, for 32 years. They have two adult sons, Adam and Nathan and live in Austin, TX. Rob blogs about his faith journey at: https://www.steppingintothejordan.com
Learn more about Gibeah at
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gibeah
Satellite Bible Atlas
www.gtitours.org/resources
Giving Back
www.gtitours.org/giving-back
www.chrissimning.com
Chris Simning has recently authored a book entitled, "Scribbles". Find it here on Amazon.com:
https://www.amzn.com/B08FF3P1NT
Giving Back
https://gtitours.org/giving-back
Randy has been a pastor for over 30 years and has been married to his wife D’anae for 37 years. Randy first traveled to Israel in 2001 and became an advocate of the land of Israel and the Jewish people. He works with Bridges for Peace, a Jerusalem-based Christian ministry that builds relationships with Jews in Israel and around the globe by serving them unconditionally. He currently is the Executive Pastor of Central Life Church, Melbourne Florida. He holds a Doctorate of Divinity from Masters International University of Divinity and is a graduate of Bridges for Peace Institute of Israel. Randy is also a Certified teacher, coach and speaker for the John Maxwell Team.
www.Bridgesforpeace.com
Upcoming Trips mentioned in this episode:
- Pastors Fam — New Dates for May 17-28, 2021
https://gtitours.org/trip/pastors-and-educators-israel-2021 - Jordan / Israel Signature
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-israel
Brady joined Keystone Community Church in Ada, Michigan as co-leader in 2013 and serves as lead teaching pastor. He is passionate about communicating the story of God in a way that is relevant, engaging and applicable. He also spent the better part of a decade and a half as a disc jockey, a fact that has been generally hidden until now. He lives in Ada with his amazing wife Sarah Anne, four boys (Carter, Parker, Colton and Wilson), and their Boxer, Hazel.
Turkey / Greece Signature Tour Info & Video
https://gtitours.org/trip/signature-turkey
Thanks to Todd's generosity, podcast listeners can get a discount at Bibleplaces.com! Just go to gtitours.org/podcast and choose the "Resources" tab.
Todd Bolen is Professor of Biblical Studies at The Master’s University in Santa Clarita, California. For more than a decade, he lived and taught at the university’s Israel Bible Extension (IBEX) campus near Jerusalem, and he continues to instruct undergraduate and seminary groups in Israel. As the founder of BiblePlaces.com, Bolen created the Pictorial Library of Bible Lands (20 volumes) and the Historic Views of the Holy Land (20 volumes). He is currently leading a team of researchers in creating the Photo Companion to the Bible. He contributed a number of articles to the Archaeological Study Bible and the Lexham Geographical Commentary series, and he wrote the notes for 2 Kings in the Zondervan NIV Study Bible. He is currently co-writing a textbook on the history of ancient Israel. He met his wife Kelli in Jerusalem, and they have five children.
Direct link to photo series with GTI discount
www.bibleplaces.com/gti/
Download Matthew 4 PowerPoint
http://www.bibleplaces.com/pcb/downloads/Matthew-4,-Photo-Companion-BiblePlaces.pptx
Link to a video version of the podcast with the photos included.
https://vimeo.com/463125431
Chris Brown is one of the Senior Pastors at North Coast Church in Vista, California and one of the three Teaching Pastors. Along with being on the vision casting team and providing directional leadership for the church, he also co-teaches a preaching course at Bethel Seminary. Chris loves bringing the Bible to life with his gifts as a communicator and storyteller, but most evident in his teaching is his passion for sharing a real and authentic journey with Jesus. Chris and his wife Amy have three children: two beautiful daughters, Sayla and Karis, and a crazy son named Barak. They plan as a family to stay involved in teaching, ministries, and fishing for as long as humanly possible."
Originally from Southern California, Gary was an undergraduate at the University of California, Riverside, and The American University of Beirut, Lebanon. He attended Fuller Theological Seminary and King's College, The University of Aberdeen, Scotland. In Scotland he studied with I. Howard Marshall earning a Ph.D. in New Testament. He served on the faculties of King College (Tennessee), North Park University (Illinois) and after 25 years at Wheaton College (Illinois) he joined the faculty of Calvin Theological Seminary (Michigan) in 2017.
Gary speaks widely in churches and conferences both in the United States and in various countries. He has traveled extensively, particularly in the Middle East. He is ordained in the Presbyterian Church, USA, and served as a military chaplain (USNR). For over 15 years he was a regular teacher at Willow Creek Community Church in S. Barrington, IL.
- Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes
https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Through-Middle-Eastern-Eyes/dp/0830825681 - Jesus the Middle Eastern Storyteller
https://www.amazon.com/Middle-Eastern-Storyteller-Ancient-Context/dp/0310280451 - The Bible and the Land
https://www.amazon.com/Bible-Land-Ancient-Context-Faith/dp/0310280443 - A week in the life of a Roman Centurion
https://www.amazon.com/Week-Life-Roman-Centurion/dp/0830824626/
Brad has traveled extensively to the biblical lands of Israel, Turkey, Jordan, Egypt, and Greece, and has been leading study trips to Israel and Turkey since 2010. He is a national speaker, published author (Make Your Mark: Getting Right What Samson Got Wrong), and former teaching pastor, with over 10 years of experience serving in multiple local churches. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Cornerstone University (Grand Rapids, Michigan), a Masters of Divinity from Western Theological Seminary (Holland, Michigan), and has done additional graduate work at Jerusalem University College (Jerusalem, Israel). Brad and his wife, Shallon, live with their four children in Nashville, Tennessee.
- https://walkingthetext.com/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_River
Aaron has been in ministry over 25 years and his heart and passion are to see people made whole through the power and love of Jesus. He has led trips to Israel and Turkey (Biblical Asia Minor) and uses the text in its proper context to open up new worlds of freedom for those who experience the Bible in the places where it happened.
Aaron is married with 4 kids and has a BA in Christian Ministry from Boise Bible College and an MA in Church Leadership from Hope International University. He is a church planting and leadership coach and sought after speaker nationally and internationally.
It is Aaron’s hope that walking in the dust of Jesus and his first followers will inspire and set free those who come with him to the land of the Bible.
- https://www.bibleplaces.com/derbelystra/
- https://gtitours.org/resources
Jim Showers, Executive Director of Friends of Israel joins our podcast today. He shares about the ministry, which was begun in 1938, ten years before Israel became a nation, and how going to the Land feels like "coming home." Jim's teaching takes us to Acts 10, the pivotal passage which reveals the beginning of God's plan to redeem both Jews and Gentiles.
https://www.foi.org
Dr. Showers earned both his master of divinity (1995) and doctor of ministry (2007) degrees from Baptist Bible Seminary. His doctoral thesis was titled “May They Prosper Who Love You: A Case for Christian Zionism.” Dr. Showers speaks at conferences, churches, and schools nation wide; is a frequent participant in events supporting Israel; and is a strong advocate of the country’s growing Jewish-Christian alliance. He also has helped lead three joint Jewish-Christian trips to Israel and three FOI Up to Jerusalem tours.
https://www.bibleplaces.com/caesarea/
https://www.bibleplaces.com/acts10/