A Traditional Jewish Upbringing
Jonathan Bernis grew up in Rochester, New York, in a traditional Jewish family. While his upbringing involved attending synagogue during high holidays, his understanding of Jesus was fraught with misconceptions. He once believed, as he humorously recounted, that Jesus was merely 'the son of Mr. and Mrs. Christ, who grew up in the Vatican.' However, this perception began to shift during his college years.
A Friend's Transformation
It was a time marked by experimentation with drugs and philosophy. Yet, a significant turning point came when Bernis reconnected with a friend who had dramatically changed. She had overcome her drug addiction and embraced a new faith. Her transformation piqued his curiosity, and she invited him to a Bible study. Despite feeling out of place as a Jewish drug dealer, Bernis attended.
Discovering Jewish Roots in the Gospel
During the study, the teacher presented him with Romans 3:23 and Romans 6:23, which spoke of sin and its consequences. Although initially uncomfortable, Bernis prayed with the teacher and felt a profound change in his heart. This led to a newfound desire to delve into the Bible, starting with the book of Matthew. To his surprise, he discovered that the Gospel was deeply rooted in Jewish tradition.
A Global Ministry
This revelation ignited a passion in Bernis to share the message he found transformative. By 1984, he founded Congregation Shema Yisrael in Rochester and served as Senior Messianic Rabbi. His journey took him across the globe, most notably to Russia, where he established the Messianic Jewish Center and held festivals that filled stadiums.
In 1998, Bernis took the helm of Jewish Voice Ministries International (JVMI), where he continues to spread the Gospel and provide humanitarian aid to Jewish communities worldwide. His life is a testament to Jesus' transformative power, which not only changed his heart but also led him to a life of service.
