Episode 138 - From the Frontlines to the Pulpit (featuring Pierre Altuna)
Helping Christians make sense of their roots. Helping the Jewish community make sense of Jesus. Together, we are restoring the Jewishness of the gospel.
What happens when a boy grows up in the crossfire of Lebanon’s civil war, trains in Israel’s military camps, and survives a bomb blast by a miracle? Pastor Pierre Altunia’s life is a tapestry of danger, loss, and unexpected grace.
From being kidnapped by the PLO to fighting Hezbollah, his story is filled with moments where death seemed certain - until God intervened.
But this is more than a soldier’s memoir. It’s the journey of a man who knew “Christian” only as a label - until relentless love from his wife and a persistent pastor led him to surrender to Yeshua.
Now leading a vibrant Messianic congregation in northern Israel, Pierre stands as both shepherd and protector, guiding his flock through rockets, war, and the hope of reconciliation between Jew and Gentile.
This is faith forged in fire, hope born in the shadow of conflict, and a call to stand with Israel for the sake of God’s Kingdom.
Key Takeaways
Lebanon’s Civil War shaped his identity - and his understanding of survival.
Kidnapped by the PLO - rescued only through family intervention.
Trained in Israel - learning the mindset of Hezbollah.
Survived a bombing - a helmet swap he calls a miracle.
From cultural Christian to believer - through his wife’s faith and a persistent pastor.
Leads a multi-ethnic Messianic congregation in Nahariya, near the Lebanese border.
Equips soldiers - providing gear, training, and spiritual encouragement.
Sees Israel as a living picture of resurrection after the Holocaust.
Prays for peace between Israel and Lebanon like the days of Solomon and King Hiram.
Chapter Markers
00:00 – Welcome from Nahariya, Israel
00:54 – Growing up in war-torn Lebanon
02:36 – The political-religious tensions of Lebanon
06:13 – The PLO, Fatahland, and the road to war
07:02 – Kidnapped at a checkpoint
08:24 – Training in Israel during the conflict
10:14 – Marriage, family, and life under fire
12:55 – Crossing into Israel in 2000
14:18 – October 7th and living on the northern front
15:04 – A soldier’s life without real faith
19:50 – The bombing that changed everything
23:44 – Coming to faith in Yeshua
24:12 – A congregation like a bouquet of nations
29:35 – Serving the community during war
33:02 – Training IDF soldiers on Hezbollah’s mindset
36:19 – Understanding God’s purpose in his survival
36:21 – Is God done with Israel?
38:47 – Israel as a living example of resurrection
40:05 – A prayer for Israel, the soldiers, and peace with Lebanon
Stand with Israel. Hear the stories behind the headlines. See faith in action at the border.Visitthejewishroad.com to learn more, support the mission, and discover how you can walk the ancient path today.
Thank you to Joshua Royal, for writing our closer song now running seven seasons straight. Listen to him at Joshua Royal Music.
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