Ep. 8: Zionism, Rapture Math & Flower Pots: A Conversation with Messianic Rabbi Brian Samuel

In this lighthearted yet theologically rich episode of Deformed Theology, we welcome a truly unique guest—Messianic Rabbi Brian Samuel. Buckle up as we dive into the deep end of Scripture, and explore serious topics without taking ourselves too seriously.

Rabbi Brian joins us with a joy-filled heart, a sharp mind, and a story that’s both convicting and hilarious. From his early days as a self-declared “atheist jerk” to his explosive encounter with the Holy Spirit in a bathroom mirror (yes, you read that right), his journey from skepticism to salvation is anything but boring.

We kick things off with our signature eschatology question—pre-trib, mid-trib, post-trib? Rabbi Brian breaks it down with humility, humor, and a healthy dose of ancient Jewish wisdom. Don’t worry, there’s no fire and brimstone here—just a spirited discussion about trumpets, timelines, and that ever-so-elusive rapture math.

We also explore the often-misunderstood world of Zionism. What does it actually mean? Is it a political term, a theological imperative, or both? Rabbi Brian takes us back to Scripture and explains how the return of the Jewish people to the land of Israel is more than a modern movement—it’s a fulfillment of God’s promises that should thrill every Bible-believing Christian.

As the conversation flows, we address replacement theology, the rise of antisemitism, and what it really means to be “grafted in.” The apostle Paul gets a lot of love in this one, especially from Rabbi Brian, who unpacks how the early church wrestled with the influx of Gentiles and what Acts 15 means for us today.

Along the way, we talk about grace, the law, the Sabbath, kosher food, and why Christians shouldn’t fear the Old Testament. Rabbi Brian offers a nuanced, compelling view: God’s standard hasn’t changed—Jesus fulfilled it. We’re not saved by law-keeping, but we grow in grace, and the feasts and traditions of the Old Testament still teach us something vital about God’s heart.

There’s also a wild olive branch metaphor, an impromptu flower pot analogy that somehow turns into a t-shirt idea, and a whole lot of laughter. You’ll walk away encouraged, challenged, and hopefully more aware of how the Old and New Testaments beautifully connect.

Whether you’re a long-time believer, new to the faith, or someone who just enjoys a deep but down-to-earth conversation about theology, this episode is for you. It’s honest, humorous, biblically grounded, and full of the kind of conversations the Church needs today.

So grab your Bible, your coffee (or matzah), and maybe a notepad—this one’s packed with insights, laughs, and a whole lot of heart.
⁠mishkahndavid.org⁠

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Y3uXaDUZk8UcjidPu8Eai?si=GPE573kmS-CTZaHuSeIzvQ&context=spotify%3Ashow%3A7pAQERjJc3RzXjG6o2fWZx