About Rabbi Scott

Rabbi Scott Scheper is the spiritual leader and founder of Nazarene Way Church.

Scott’s journey has been one of profound study, contemplation, and devotion. A lifelong reader and writer, he has pursued an independent scholarly path—one rooted in the analog discipline of handwritten study and deep reflection. Using thousands of notecards and years of research, Scott has immersed himself in the history, theology, and culture of First-Century Judea and Rome, examining the beliefs and practices of Jesus the Nazarene, John the Baptizer, the Essenes, and the early Nazarene-Ebionite communities.

Through this work, Scott came to recognize a striking truth: the faith of Jesus—rooted in Torah, compassion, and justice—was fundamentally different from the religion later constructed by Paul of Tarsus and the Gentile Church Fathers of the third and fourth centuries.

Scott’s studies have been enriched through dialogue with leading scholars, including Dr. Bart Ehrman and academics from institutions such as the University of Chicago and Claremont McKenna University. His conclusions are clear and unwavering: the earliest followers of Jesus practiced a faith centered not on dogma, but on love of God, love of neighbor, and care for the poor and marginalized—the Ebionim, as referenced by James, the brother of Jesus.

Under Scott’s leadership, Nazarene Way Church seeks to restore that original Way—to live the teachings of Jesus the Nazarene through action, study, and compassion.

Based in Southern California, just a few miles from Saddleback Church in Rancho Santa Margarita, Scott is guiding the growth of this movement from its humble beginnings into a thriving community devoted to truth and love.

You can join Rabbi Scott’s weekly sermons on YouTube, connect with the church directly, or participate in our outreach missions, where we bring food, fellowship, and care to the poor and unhoused.