"I Was Raised an Orthodox Jew—Here’s Why I Became a Christian"

Mar 26

What happens when an Orthodox Jew becomes an atheist—and then encounters Jesus?

In this powerful episode of the Rybickulous Faith Podcast, host Sarah Rybicki sits down with Dr. David Shapiro—pastor, chaplain, and Christian apologist—to explore his remarkable journey from Judaism to atheism to Christianity, and why faith and reason are not opposites.

Raised in an Orthodox Jewish home in New York City, David struggled early with dyslexia, self-esteem, and a deep sense of not belonging. As doubt grew, he walked away from faith and into atheism, searching for meaning through intense experiences like military service and professional fighting. Yet despite the adrenaline and achievement, the emptiness remained.

Everything began to shift through a series of unexpected moments—including his mother’s faith journey—that stirred deeper questions about truth, God, and purpose. One day, David walked into a church, and that encounter set him on a path that would transform the trajectory of his life.

Today, Dr. David Shapiro brings together lived experience, logic, and theology. With advanced degrees in biblical studies, archaeology, and religious education, he explains why he believes in Jesus, how apologetics shaped his faith, and what he would say to skeptics who are still searching.

Whether you’re a Christian, atheist, skeptic, or simply curious, this episode invites you into an honest conversation about doubt, belief, forgiveness, and finding truth.

🎧 In this episode, we discuss:

Growing up Orthodox Jewish and questioning faith
Why atheism didn’t bring the answers he expected
The role of suffering, dyslexia, and identity in belief
How reason and apologetics led him to Christianity
What skeptics misunderstand about faith
Why Jesus still changes lives today

🔍 Watch if you’re searching for:

Orthodox Jew to Christian testimony
Atheist to Christian conversion story
Why an atheist became a Christian
Jewish to Christian faith journey
Faith and reason explained

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🔗 Connect with Dr. David Shapiro

🌐 Website: https://drdavidshapiro.org
📖 Upcoming Books (2026): Currently in progress with Elk Lake Publishing
🎙️ Speaking, podcast, and media appearances focused on faith, apologetics, and testimony