Pastor Illuz’s Journey Amid Hezbollah Rockets/ A Pastor’s Battle Against Fear #362

April 23, 2026
00:00 29:31
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Welcome to Inside the Epicenter. In this powerful episode, Joel Rosenberg travels to the northernmost church in Israel, located in the city of Kiryat Shmona—just steps from the Lebanon border—to sit down with Pastor Israel Illuz. Together, they explore what it means to serve faithfully while living under the constant threat of rocket fire, with more than 20,000 rockets launched at their community in recent months. Pastor Israel Illuz shares how his congregation remains resilient and committed to serving others, providing hot meals for soldiers and support for those who cannot evacuate. He also recounts his remarkable spiritual journey from an Orthodox Jewish background to faith in Yeshua, and how this transformation fuels his courage and hope amid ongoing conflict. Join us for an inspiring conversation about faith, perseverance, and being a light in the midst of war.

(00:00) Life under rocket fire in Israel
(06:17) Preaching about religious persecution
(06:54) Community controversy and resolution
(13:01) Praying for peace and support
(14:47) Describing historical Jewish persecution
(19:19) Discovering faith through scripture
(20:12) Questioning religious practices
(24:00) Embracing a divine calling
(27:42) Israel's resilience amid rocket attacks

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Prayer Request:
Pray for the people of Israel, as right now we are in a ceasefire both with Iran and with Hezbollah.
Pray for real peace to take hold. Pray for Hezbollah to get out of Lebanon, for the Lebanese people to be set free.

Related Episodes:
Ceasefire in Iran: Smart Move Or Mistake? #359
Shannon Bream - Overcoming the Impossible #358
Inside Passover: Spiritual Strength Amid War in Israel #357
How Local Churches in Israel Bring Hope and Practical Help #344

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Meet Your Hosts
Joel C. Rosenberg is a New York Times bestselling author & Middle East expert. He has spent 20 years bringing a uniquely Biblical view on the Epicenter; this podcast will share insights from his private meetings with presidents, prime ministers, kings, and clerics.
Lynn A. Rosenberg is the co-host of the Inside The Epicenter podcast, a gifted Bible teacher, and co-founder of The Joshua Fund. She holds a Master’s degree in leadership and theology from Western Seminary. Together with her husband, New York Times bestselling author Joel C. Rosenberg, she launched The Joshua Fund to strengthen the Church and bring life-saving aid across the Middle East. In 2014, they made aliyah to Israel with their four sons and now live in Jerusalem. As a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen, Lynn continues to teach, write, and lead with a heart anchored in the Epicenter. She has helped mobilize millions of dollars in ministry and humanitarian relief to Israel and neighboring nations. On the podcast, Lynn offers spiritual wisdom, global perspective, and a deep passion for God’s redemptive work in the region.
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