I was raised in a traditional Jewish home, but by age 16, I had lost interest in Judaism and began experimenting with drugs. I began making other bad choices as well, and was getting into serious trouble. I was vulnerable, confused and wanted to ask G-d for help. Unfortunately, the closest synagogue was over 70 miles away, so against my better judgment, I went to a nearby church and began to pray.
The pastor came over and said, “G-d will help you if I you turn your life over to Jesus.” I answered, “That’s impossible because I’m a Jew.” Then, he assured me it was OK and stated, “Actually, many Jews today believe in Jesus. His first followers were all Jews. By following Jesus, you will become a fulfilled Jew, a Messianic Jew.” Using the Old Testament, he showed me many passages that he claimed prophesied Jesus as the Jewish Messiah.
After speaking with this pastor for six months, I was convinced I was finally on the right track. I could become a Christian, still remain a Jew and start my troubled life over again. All my sins would be “washed away” and I would be “born again.” Even though my parents disowned me, I was still convinced that I had discovered the truth.
I began attending a “Messianic” synagogue for Shabbat and the Jewish holidays where I learned more and more about “Messianic” Judaism. The following year, I was even asked to become the “rabbi” at a newly formed congregation called “Beit Shalom.”
As the leader of this congregation, I led many people to faith in Jesus and some of them were actually Jews. Ironically, becoming a “Messianic rabbi” was the beginning of my return to Judaism. While preparing sermons and trying to place Christian teachings into the context of the Tanach (Jewish Bible), I began to notice many troubling inconsistencies.
Seeking answers, I sent emails to numerous rabbis and Jewish organizations. The only person to respond was Rabbi Michael Skobac of Jews for Judaism. We exchanged countless emails and spent hours on the phone as he explained the many fallacies used by missionaries to convert Jews. Rabbi Skobac helped me understand the true meaning of Judaism and I eventually realized that I could no longer be a Christian.
In my final sermon to my congregation, I explained what I had learned from Rabbi Skobac, and demonstrated how Jesus could not be the Jewish Messiah. By the end of that service, 28 of the Jewish congregants began their return to Judaism!
Today, I am enjoying the beauty, spirituality and richness of Judaism. If not for Jews for Judaism and Rabbi Skobac’s vast knowledge, patience, kindness and willingness to help, I truly do not know where I would be! I remain eternally grateful to Jews for Judaism for helping to keep Jews Jewish and for their amazing efforts in assisting my family and me.
