Since the conflict between Israel and Hamas erupted last October, the faith-based nonprofit Jews for Jesus has reported a notable increase in the number of New Testament orders from Israelis.
Jews for Jesus is associated with the Messianic Jewish movement, which aims to help Jewish individuals embrace faith in Christ while maintaining their Jewish identity.
The organization, headquartered in San Francisco with branches in New York, London, Tel Aviv, and Jerusalem, engages in public discussions about Jesus and hosts events to foster dialogue.
They are also known for their charitable acts, including operating soup kitchens and supporting Holocaust survivors.
Recently, Jews for Jesus has offered free New Testaments to Israelis through its website and its partners, One for Israel and Tree of Life Ministries. Data provided to The Christian Post indicates that there have been 1,230 requests for New Testaments since the war began.
The conflict started after Hamas launched a surprise attack on October 7, killing approximately 1,200 people and kidnapping over 240 others. Israel responded with a military operation aimed at eradicating Hamas.
The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry claims over 37,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the war began, although they have not specified how many of these were combatants versus civilians.
Aaron Abramson, Executive Director of Jews for Jesus, suggests the surge in New Testament requests may be due to Israelis grappling with spiritual questions following the devastating attack.
He noted a sense of hopelessness among Israelis, who have traditionally relied on their country’s military strength for security. This sentiment has led many to explore spiritual solutions amidst political and economic uncertainties.
Many staff members of Jews for Jesus in Israel have family members serving in the military, called up following the October 7 attack. In response, the organization has shifted its focus to support those affected by the conflict.
They have partnered with groups like Samaritan’s Purse to assist in various ways, including helping kibbutzim residents relocate and providing food and makeshift classrooms for displaced children.
The Moishe Rosen Center in Tel Aviv, operated by Jews for Jesus, has been transformed into a crisis center offering resources such as toiletries, medication, and even an art gallery to help people express their emotions.
Despite the organization’s efforts, it has faced opposition from some Orthodox Jewish communities that disagree with its mission. Abramson acknowledges this but emphasizes the significant number of Jews finding hope and meaning in Jesus.
He advises those sharing the Gospel with Jewish people to be sensitive to social cues and to approach each conversation uniquely, recognizing the diverse beliefs within Jewish communities.
Abramson encourages a bold yet respectful approach, suggesting that even small gestures can lead to meaningful faith discussions.
In summary, the ongoing conflict has sparked a rise in spiritual exploration among Israelis, reflected in the increased demand for New Testaments provided by Jews for Jesus. The organization continues to adapt its mission to support and engage with those seeking hope and answers during these challenging times.
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