Dr. Jeff Baxter

For Dr. Jeff Baxter, the ICEJ USA’s new Director of Education, the call to support Israel is both personal and biblical. He lives by the mandate of Ezra 7:10, dedicating himself to the study, practice, and teaching of God’s Word—a commitment that has defined his 30-year career in pastoral ministry. He’s a visionary leader who loves the local church, is an affiliate faculty member at a Christian college and seminary, has led mission/leadership trips to over 28 countries, and has been leading tours to Israel, Greece, Turkey, Rome, and other biblical places for discipleship for many years. In his role at ICEJ USA, he leverages that diverse expertise, blending academic rigor with the practical heart of a pastor, to help believers grow deeper in their faith and in their love for the land and people of Israel.

At the ICEJ USA, Jeff aims to deliver biblically rooted, strategically crafted educational initiatives. He focuses on equipping pastors, churches, and young adults at Christian universities to support Israel and combat antisemitism. “I love developing resources on Israel and Jewish culture,” Jeff says, noting that he will continue to lead discipleship tours to Israel and other biblical lands.

For Jeff, Israel is a priority because it is a priority to God. “I long to love the things that God loves, and Israel is front and center in God’s everlasting covenant promises. . . . They are the apple of his eye—the center of His vision (Zechariah 2:8). All of the past, present, and future will rely on God’s movements with Israel, his chosen people and land.”

Outside of ministry, Jeff is a devoted family man—married to his wife, Laurie, for over three decades, with three grown children and a son-in-law. He is the author of multiple books and believes in the power of writing to outlast a lifetime. “A Jewish proverb says, ‘Over the course of your lifetime, you should do three things: plant a tree, have a baby, and write a book.’ Why? Because they all outlast us,” says Jeff. “Writing is legacy-leaving for me.”

When he isn’t researching historical sites or traveling, you can find Jeff cheering for the Colorado Rapids and Denver Broncos or enjoying a cup of coffee in a local café.

Jeff is eager to connect with the ICEJ community and is available to speak at churches or universities.—connect with him at: Jeff.Baxter@icejusa.org