Zion's Voice

Brit Hadashah Reflections   47

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

1 Peter  1 : 1 - 25

Peter needs little introduction! A giant of the faith. Bold, flawed, loyal, boisterous, impetuous, enthusiastic, spokesman, obedient to his calling. He was a leader to be admired and a study of his life is rewarding. A fervent Torah observant Jewish believer who met face to face with the resurrected Messiah, with a strong desire to see followers of Yeshua live lives worthy of their calling. This letter was probably written from Rome in the mid 60’s C.E. and it remains something of a mystery that Peter does not mention the Apostle Paul in his letters, other than to comment on the difficulty in understanding his letters! (2 Peter 3:15, 16)

Peter addressed this pastoral letter to the diaspora communities of Jewish believers in “Asia Minor”. A region we broadly identify as central Turkey today. The writing Apostles had spent about three years of their life under the close tutelage of Yeshua. Uneducated men with no religious baggage, Yeshua chose these men carefully to spread the good news of the gospel after His death and resurrection. Gentile believers today constitute a quite significant part of the fruit of their obedience to the commission with which they were charged. All of us who are “born of the Spirit” owe a great debt of gratitude to these faithful Jewish Apostles.  But few of us seem to vocalize recognition of that heritage!

This letter was intended to be read by a number of “ekklesia” in the region. Very early, Peter refers to ‘various trials’ being encountered by these “ekklesia”, infering that such ‘trials’ were part and parcel of common experience. Most would understand those ‘trials’ to mean difficulties, persecutions, harassment and even personal abuse. And those ‘trials’ would be emanating both from the local populace and from unbelieving Orthodox Jewish members (also known as Judaizers). Now, to get a grip on the situation, it is helpful if we can, in some measure, personalize this experience and relate it to our situation today. Otherwise, relating to the pastoral nature of Peter’s counsel becomes difficult to comprehend. And the miracle of the Scriptures is the way they are able to span all ages and generations.

It is made more difficult today because, whereas Peter warns that these ‘trials’ are the expected ‘norm’ for believers, there are many “Apostles” (self-appointed) today deceptively proclaiming the ‘prosperity teaching’ for all believers. It is popular because it is attractive and self-serving. But it’s not in the Bible! And my dear friends, since we are told that we are not ‘of this world’, if we do not have opposition (we are told that the world is at enmity with God) we should perhaps question the nature and quality of the witness we present to those around us.

However, Peter’s message is not all gloom and doom. Quite the opposite. “you have been grieved by various trials” he said, “that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honour, and glory at the revelation of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory , receiving the end of your faith .. the salvation of your souls.”  Does the genuineness of my faith and witness pass this test? Does yours?

He continued in the manner of both a challenge and an exhortation. With reference to their life before faith “conforming to your former lusts, as in your ignorance.” And quoting from the Torah with which the Jews would be familiar, he said “as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written ‘Be holy for I am holy’.” (Leviticus 11) The question for us to address is ‘How much of that exhortation applies today?” That God is holy is beyond question. That we were conforming to our former lusts is also unquestioned, even though, arguably, the degree may be different for each individual. (it is appropriate to remember the Hebrew word “chata” (sin), which is an archery term meaning to miss the mark. Whether by one millimetre or one metre is not specified.) Missing the mark is ‘missing the mark!’ No one is exempt. So how to judge ‘holiness’ by God’s standard is the issue. The Torah is the written account of God’s instruction for righteous (holy, set apart) living. Nowhere in the Scriptures will you find that Torah has been made obsolete, and certainly not for Jews. (Did you realize that the New Covenant sign is the Torah written on our hearts and put in our minds by God Himself so that it can no longer be taught!) I would think too that those who have been ‘grafted into the natural Olive Tree’ (which is Israel according to Paul) are also privileged to benefit from such instruction. If that is the case then today we too are to “Be holy for I am holy”.

“All flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls away. But the word of the Lord endures forever.” (Isaiah 40:8) Peter reminded his readers. “And this is the word, which by the gospel is preached to you.” And guess what! The ‘word’ to which Peter referred was what we call “The Old Testament”, more appropriately being The Hebrew Scriptures.

Shabbat Shalom 

RS                  

Brit Hadashah Reflections   46

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

James  5 : 1 - 20

The first observation we make is that the name ‘James’ is the anglicized version of ‘Ya’akov’, the Hebrew name of this Apostle. There are three James’ who ‘might’ be the author of this letter. One was brother of John and son of Zebedee and Salome. He is thought to have visited Spain and Portugal to encourage and preach to Jews of the diaspora there, but little else is known about him. Another is the half-brother of Yeshua, and the third was a son of Alpheus. No one knows. There is circumstantial evidence that it was one of the first two mentioned, but that matters little. It is the content which is important. The letter is written to the ‘scattered’ tribes of Israel, with a major focus being to exhort the recipients to exercise and exhibit their faith by their actions, not only with their words. For that reason, his observation of double-mindedness in those of the faith is also a theme of the letter.

It is often the case that the very convenient chapter and verse divisions in our Bible causes us to miss some of the flow of the text. It is the case here. “Come now you rich, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you. ….   Indeed the wages of the labourers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, cry out; and the cries of the reapers have reached the ears of YHWH Elohim.” It is a readily identified sin to defraud anyone, isn’t it? But this is written to believers!! So if we ignore the chapter division here it follows on immediately from James’ definition of sin with which we ended our ‘reflection’ last week. “To him that knows to do good, and does not do it, to him it is sin.” It is a ‘compound sin’ if such a thing exists! Knowing what is right and not doing it, and then compounding it with fraud. One clear example of the double-mindedness, which James addresses in this letter to believers in the diaspora “ekklesia”.

The “high minded” would quickly exclaim that they would never do such a thing. But there are scores of instances, every day, when we profess one thing regarding our relationship with God and act as though God were just a remote dis-interested onlooker from outer space. That is plain double-mindedness. God has clearly spelled out His instruction for righteous living, and from that there was NO compromise then and there is NO compromise now. It’s in the BOOK!!

James uses the Prophets, men who heard the word of the Lord and spoke it without fear or favour, as examples of the sometime hardship of being faithful to ones calling. Job was another who endured severe deprivation for his faith. “Let your “yes” be yes, and let your “no” be no” James said. No prevarication, no compromise, no faltering, no deviation from the path of your life of faith. Why? Because “the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.” And that is where we put our faith and trust. But James is also a realist. He knows that our humanity sometimes gets in the way of our faith. So he continued.

“Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing Psalms. Is anyone of you sick? (Greek “astheneo”) Let him call for the elders of the “ekklesia” etc.” Has James just introduced a new subject about physical healing here? Just out of the blue? Has he finished with double-mindedness? NO HE HASN’T. How often have we heard this passage of Scripture used as an introduction to join a line for physical healing? That is exactly what I was taught, and I expect you were too. Now this is extremely important. There is NO change of subject matter as we proceed in this letter. The theme of double-mindedness continues. And it is necessary to see why. The key is in understanding the Greek “astheneo”. And at the same time to ask yourself why did James follow this apparent interjection about “healing” by reminding these Jews in the diaspora about Elijah on Mount Carmel? It all fits together. And for me it answers a most perplexing question of why so many are not healed of sickness and ill-health by such sincere prayer by elders in our churches.

Here’s how. The word “astheneo”, translated in James 5:14 as ‘sick’, occurs 11 times in Paul’s letters. 5 times in Romans once in 1 Corinthians and 5 times in 2 Corinthians. In each case that word is correctly translated as “weak” (in faith). Additionally, in the very next verse, James 5:15 the word which is translated as “sick” is the Greek “kamno”, much better translated “faint” or “wearied”. Elijah’s encounter with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel was a battle of “double minded-ness”. “How long will you falter between two opinions?” (1 Kings 18:21)

So, “rightly dividing the word of truth”, there remains a consistency about James appeal to the diaspora Jews. He recognized that some would grow “weary” in the faith. He recognized the frailty of ones humanity. He knew that some would need local help and assistance to continue. So he gave them wise counsel. It is counsel that is equally applicable today. When doubt, confusion, concern, or challenging situations occur, James said “Let him call the elders of (his) “ekklesia”, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.”  Then James gave them this promise, recognizing that such action would be the beginning of loving concern and support for the person presenting themselves to them for such prayer. “And the prayer of faith WILL save the “weary one”, and the Lord WILL raise him up.” Be blessed as you study the word of God.

Shabbat Shalom    

RS                  

Brit Hadashah Reflections   45

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

James  3 : 1  to 4 : 17

The first observation we make is that the name ‘James’ is the anglicized version of ‘Ya’akov’, the Hebrew name of this Apostle. There are three James’ who ‘might’ be the author of this letter. One was brother of John and son of Zebedee and Salome. He is thought to have visited Spain and Portugal to encourage and preach to Jews of the diaspora there, but little else is known about him. Another is the half-brother of Yeshua, and the third was a son of Alpheus. No one knows. There is circumstantial evidence that it was one of the first two mentioned, but that matters little. It is the content which is important. The letter is written to the ‘scattered’ tribes of Israel, with a major focus being to exhort the recipients to exercise and exhibit their faith by their actions, not only with their words. For that reason, his observation of double-mindedness in those of the faith is also a theme of the letter.

A little known statement opens our reading today, which has profound implications for many people, myself included! “Let not many of you become teachers (of the Scriptures) knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgement.” For the last few years I have been ‘reflecting’ (and thus teaching) on the Hebraic understanding of the Scriptures. I have done so in full knowledge of the fact that I will receive stricter judgement, both from the readers of these ‘reflections’, and more importantly from YHWH Elohim. Teachers have a huge responsibility to “rightly divide the word of truth”. I confess to having little patience with those who, through lack of diligence, or for personal gain, mislead others about what the Scriptures ACTUALLY say. And regrettably there are many who, to their great shame, “peddle” the word of God in such a manner. (2 Corinthians 2:17)

To emphasize his point, James uses some everyday examples to illustrate the huge consequences of such mis-use of that small ‘member’ of our body, the tongue! He likens it to a small fire that can set a whole forest ablaze. To a tiny rudder which is able to control the direction of a huge ship. The tongue, he said, is untameable, “full of deadly poison”. That’s an awful yet accurate description of its powerful potential to do immeasurable harm and create dissent. At the same time, correctly ‘tamed’, our tongue may be used to bring blessing, comfort, encouragement and joy. A timely lesson for today. James is quick to point out the responsibility of every believer to ensure that our heart is right before our holy God so that our tongue is used to bring glory to God and news of good things, of which it is capable.

Discernment of truth is paramount. James writes to encourage those who are ‘of the faith’. He goes to some length to emphasize the characteristic which should be the evidence of that faith. “Good works” he said “is the tangible evidence of that faith.” By faith comes repentance. One needs faith to know that repentance has been accepted. (When our children were young, we required them to express sorrow for mis-deeds or poor behaviour. ‘What does “sorry” mean?’  We would ask, and then provide an answer. It means ‘I won’t do it again!’). Where is the evidence that repentance has occurred in a person? And of what has one repented? Scripture teaches that we need to repent of ‘sin’, (‘chata’ in Hebrew, an archery term, which means ‘missing the mark’), but we need to understand what that means. On this point some are confused, but the Bible is quite clear. In contradistinction to “chata” (missing the mark) is “Torah” (derived from the Hebrew word “yarah”, another archery term, meaning ‘hitting the mark’.)  So clearly, the Biblical definition of ‘sin’ (from which we are to repent) is “missing the mark” and by our repentance (turning around) we “hit the mark”. By taking heed to God’s instruction (Torah) for righteous living. The evidence? A lifestyle which is different! By inference, James is teaching “No evidence, no repentance!” And my dear friends, on the authority of Scripture if there is no repentance there is no salvation! “Repentance from sin” is a bedrock, principal, teaching of John the Baptizer, Yeshua Ha’Mashiach and Rabbi Sha’ul. And to come ‘full circle’, the evidence is there for all to see, and it is manifest, not in what we say, but in the “works” we do, that is, how we live our lives.

James embarks on a kind of checklist of questions for our discernment about where we stand. “Where do wars and fights come from among you?” “Do you know that friendship with the world is enmity with God?” “Do you think that the Scripture says in vain ‘The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously”? Then he quotes from Proverbs “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Then the practical advice of a wise counsellor. “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands you sinners; and purify your hearts you double-minded.”  Did you know that one of the purposes of the ancient sacrificial system was so that the penitent person would literally “draw near to God”? Sacrifices were made at the Tabernacle or Temple. The very place of God’s habitation among the people. And when the penitent ‘drew near to God’ God drew near to him. Burden lifted. Peace of mind.

Finally, in this very practical letter of encouragement to believers, James provides a concise definition of sin. It is well worth pondering. “To him that knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.”  Just notice one more time believing friend. It’s not what you say, it’s what you do!                 

Shabbat Shalom      

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   44

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

James  1 : 1  to 2 : 26

The first observation we make is that the name ‘James’ is the anglicized version of ‘Ya’akov’, the Hebrew name of this Apostle. There are three James’ who ‘might’ be the author of this letter. One was brother of John and son of Zebedee and Salome. He is thought to have visited Spain and Portugal to encourage and preach to Jews of the diaspora there, but little else is known about him. Another is the half-brother of Yeshua, and the third was a son of Alpheus. No one knows. There is circumstantial evidence that it was one of the first two mentioned, but that matters little. It is the content which is important. The letter is written to the ‘scattered’ tribes of Israel, with a major focus being to exhort the recipients to exercise and exhibit their faith by their actions, not only with their words. For that reason, his observation of double-mindedness in those of the faith is also a theme of the letter.

The letter lacks the personal associations which are a hallmark of Paul’s writings, but James is well aware of the trials and difficulties being faced by his fellow Jews in their diaspora “ekklesia” and gets directly into the purpose of the letter. “Count it all joy when you fall into various trials” he said. There was no IF involved, it was WHEN. Living a life of faith will always attract the attention of others, and they are not all sympathetic. There will be trials. James said that this amounted to a test of faith, which teaches patience, which in turn strengthens that faith as one leans more and more on the Lord for comfort and support. I paraphrase here, as James said “If you are not sure how to proceed, ask God, he will provide the strength and wisdom you need to continue, but be sure to ask without doubting, because if you are unsure of God you will be like a ship in a raging sea, tossed about all over the place. Be single minded in your asking and trust God for his leading. If you are double-minded you will be confused in discernment whether or not it is God who is speaking to you!”

Everyone experiences temptation, and it comes in many different forms. Do not be fooled into thinking that temptation is from God. It is not. And because this letter of James has some focus on double-mindedness, a mixture of sorts, I think he might consider that temptation, which has its root in one’s own desires, is because the outcome of temptation springs from the fact that issues of relationship with a holy God have not been fully settled. To put it more positively, the single minded person, having settled the issue of a relationship with God, has little difficulty in deciding the course to take when temptation arises. Right and wrong are more easily distinguished. Resistance to temptation more readily dealt with. Why? Well the Apostle Paul put it well. “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but will with that temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”  (1 Corinthians 10:13)  One’s reliance on God provides the strength to overcome.

James exhibits “Solomonesque” wisdom in this letter. It is jam packed full of good advice. “Be doers of the word and not hearers only.” Yeshua did not have much time for the Pharisees on this account. He once told his Jewish audience (Matthew 23:3) to DO what the Pharisees say you should do (because they said all the right things) but DON’T do what they do! Could that be said of us? Most of us are good hearers, but are we DOERS of the word? Accept the challenge and ponder the thought.

Chapter 2 deals with the issue of ‘partiality’. Treating people differently because of their wealth or standing in the community. It is still a big issue for some synagogues who actually sell tickets for the best seats and duties in the (mo’edim) holiday festivals. There is always a ‘rational’ explanation, but never a good reason! That is why James deals with it head on. He heads straight for the Torah, and again he ends up making comparison between what one says one believes, and how one acts. It is easy to point a finger at the recipients of this letter and nod the head approvingly, but what does the letter say to ME, today. It’s practical. It’s relevant. It’s challenging. Or it should be!

Here is one JUST for me! “If a brother or a sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them ‘be warmed and filled’ but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit (them)?” In that context, James says your faith is dead. Your faith takes on life when it is accompanied by action. A good deed. “Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” Talk is cheap dear friends, getting one’s hands dirty is a bit different.

So to Abraham. James reminded his audience that “Abraham believed God and it was counted to him for righteousness” How did that work? Well God called Abraham to leave his country and go to another. Abraham obeyed God, not only then but other times too. He acted. He was a DOER. And he was a DOER out of pure trust in what God called him to do. No-one has any doubt of Abraham’s standing before God.

And that sums up the lessons contained in our reading today. Faith is important, without faith we cannot please God, I tread on thin ice with some here, BUT there is more. Faith that stands still doesn’t get one anywhere. “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” We are called by God for a purpose. That purpose can only be fulfilled as we respond, take up the challenge and DO what we have been called to do.

Shabbat Shalom

RS             

Brit Hadashah Reflections   43

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Philemon  1 : 1  to 1 : 25

My bible has the following introduction to this letter.

“Does Christian brotherly love really work, even in situations of extraordinary tension and difficulty? Will it work, for example between a prominent slave owner and one of his runaway slaves? Paul has no doubt! He writes a ‘postcard’ to Philemon, his beloved brother and fellow worker, on behalf of Onesimus – a deserter, thief, and formerly worthless slave, but now Philemon’s brother in Christ. With much tact and tenderness, Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus back with the same tenderness with which he would receive Paul himself. Any debt Onesimus owes, Paul promises to make good. Knowing Philemon, Paul is confident that brotherly love and forgiveness will carry the day.

Evidently, as Paul said in his introduction, he wrote this letter when Timothy was with him, and there was an “ekklesia” of believers which met regularly in the home of Philemon. It is interesting that the name “Philemon” means ‘affectionate’ in English, coming from the Greek root word “philema” meaning ‘to kiss’. As a matter of further interest, the name “Onesimus” means ‘beneficial’ or ‘profitable’.

There does not appear to be any issue of momentous doctrinal value in this letter, it is quite personal, direct and compassionate. But the inclusion of this letter in the cannon of Scripture demands our attention. We learn from Paul’s letter to the Colossians, that Onesimus was one of them, so the overwhelming likelihood is that Philemon was a prominent member of the “ekklesia” in Colossae (since they actually met in his home). It is also probable that this letter was written about the same time as the letter to the Colossians, early in Paul’s imprisonment in Rome.

Initially, there is the commendation of Paul for the excellent reputation and service which Philemon obviously exercised within the “ekklesia’. One might imagine that as a slave owner he was a man of some substance. He seemingly was highly regarded in that assembly. The relationship that Paul had within the various Asia Minor “ekklesia” is hinted at in verse 8. He felt that he had enough authority to command certain actions of the congregation and its individual members. However, he tactfully declined to make such demands, choosing rather to ‘appeal’ to Philemon as one with the seniority of age, but as an equal in the sight of our Lord Yeshua. Onesimus was an escaped slave (likely punishable by a disfiguring brand mark or even death) who didn’t do a very good job whilst in the household of Philemon. But who Paul declared to be returning as one who would be quite reformed, useful, and diligent in his future service. In paraphrase Paul said “I would have loved to have kept him with me so that, as a gift from you, he would be able to minister to me in my imprisonment” Then to put the legality of that right “but I couldn’t keep him without your consent and I didn’t want to presume on your generosity without your approval, so I am sending him back to you!”

“Maybe his escape was no accident” Paul said. “Could it be that there was a purpose, arranged by God Himself so that he would return to you, no longer just as a slave, but more than that, as a true brother in the faith? He is a brother in Christ to me, so how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.” Then Paul puts it right on the line. “If you count me as a brother, and he is my brother, receive him as though it were me that were coming back to you!”

But that was not quite the end of it. Paul was not sure if there were any debt to pay so he generously offered to cover any such debt (even though it seems unlikely that Paul would have the financial means to cover any debt!) Then he quietly reminded Philemon that he himself was in debt for his very life to Paul, who had earlier led him to faith in Yeshua.

Now we do not have the satisfaction of knowing the end of this situation. What we do know is that Paul used his significant influence to build bridges between two brothers in the faith, albeit from exceptionally different backgrounds and personal circumstance. The natural man would conclude that such reconciliation would be improbable. But when people are united in faith, all things are possible. And that might be the lesson we should take from this brief personal letter. It deals with the fact of Paul doing the right and honourable thing in persuading Onesimus to return to his “master’ in the flesh. But he does it with incredible sensitivity giving hope, encouragement and support for a good outcome in that return. He could have said “Go back Onesimus, I will pray for you!!” And he probably did, but he went further, much further, and laid his own reputation and standing ‘on the line’ by writing that compassionate letter, and following it up, at the end of the letter by suggesting to Philemon that it wouldn’t be long before he would make another personal visit to him ensuring that he would be able to see the end result for himself.

So this concludes our ‘reflections’ on the writings of Paul. In future weeks we will ‘reflect’ on the other four Apostolic writers, James, Peter, John and Jude.

Shabbat Shalom

RS 

Brit Hadashah Reflections   42

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Titus  1 : 1  to 3 : 15

Just like Timothy, Titus too was a young man introduced to faith in Yeshua by Paul. He accompanied Paul on many of his missionary journeys, and is mentioned several times in that connection. But the purpose of this letter was to provide Titus with instruction regarding the proper functioning of the “ekklesia” over which he was charged with oversight. An unenviable assignment for such a young man.

The salutation which opens this letter is interesting in that one might have expected Paul to be quite assured of his salvation. Instead, he expresses ‘hope’ of salvation, leading to eternal life, as he faithfully continued the task of preaching the word of God in truth as he was assigned. He may well have known of the words which Yeshua spoke to His disciples recorded in Matthew 10 and 24 about the significance of “enduring to the end”. And for Paul, he had not yet completed the course! But he was well aware of the potential difficulties faced by Titus in bringing order to the various “ekklesia” in Crete, and was intent on instructing and encouraging him to fulfil that difficult task.

The appointment of ‘elders’ (people with experience of life, as in ‘seniors’) and ‘bishops’ (those charged with responsibility, as a superintendent) Paul saw as an important element to ensure the orderly conduct of each “ekklesia”. The principles are the same today, but often, the qualifications detailed by Paul in recognizing such appointments are mostly ignored, since our churches today operate ‘democratically”, by popular vote of the members. Titus was not instructed to take a vote on such appointments. He was told to observe and judge various details of such persons’ way of life and standing in the community. And there was good reason for that. In an amazing outburst about national character Paul declared that “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons”. Wow! Talk about winning friends and influencing people! Do you begin to get a sense here of the enormity of the task which the young Titus was to face? The appointments of ‘elders’ and ‘bishops’ required them to exhibit a strength of character, and a standing in the community to withstand the teachings of those, ‘especially those of the circumcision’, (Jews) whose ‘mouths must be stopped’. Why? Because Paul knew that there were those within the Jewish community, who saw themselves as spiritually superior and were not shy to promote themselves, even for dishonest gain, teaching what they considered truth, when in fact they were propagating what Yeshua called ‘the traditions of men’, observing traditions and customs as the means of salvation. Paul had ‘been there, done that’ and knew it all too well. He wisely observed “To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled. They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him.”  It is the same today. As Yeshua spoke those words of condemnation in Matthew 7 “By their fruits (works) you shall know them.”

So Titus was instructed to ‘speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine’. To conduct himself with utmost integrity. Chapter 2 of our text is a master class instruction in dealing with every member of each family unit. Paul encouraged Titus to speak boldly, to exhort, rebuke, teach, befriend, be an example, be consistent, unwavering, and truthful, in all his associations. Only by so doing could he expect to gain their respect, support and love so as to witness spiritual growth in the “ekklesia” he was called upon to lead. Are you challenged, as I am, to consider how I would have fared in Titus’ shoes? It sounds hypothetical, but it’s not. Everyday our actions and our speech shout to all around us what we are like on the inside. Those bits that we think are hidden!

Paul’s exhortation is extremely practical. Titus was not invited to win a popularity contest. He was charged with speaking the truth in love. “Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work,” Remember that we too were once pretty gross! “But when the kindness and the love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, not by works which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us.” However, good works are not to be condemned as though they were filled with poison. Some Christians miss the point here. “This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly” said Paul “that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.” These are the good works we engage in because we are saved, NOT in order to be saved.

And to those who did not want to hear, and from those whose only interest was to engage in endless dispute, he was instructed to walk away! “Shake off the dust from your feet” (Matthew 10:14) is how Yeshua put it to His disciples. “Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition, knowing that such a person is warped and sinning, being self-condemned.” Paul said.

This short letter of advice to Titus is worthy of your careful attention. Those who study it closely will be well rewarded in their walk with the Lord.                        

Shabbat Shalom 

RS             

Brit Hadashah Reflections   41

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

2 Timothy  3 : 1  to 4 : 22

Paul wrote this second letter to Timothy from Rome shortly after his first letter. It seemed that Paul was concerned to encourage the young Timothy to be strong in his faith as the onerous task of leading the “ekklesia” in Ephesus took some toll on the young man’s resolve! Some had already deserted Paul (other than their names we have no other detail) but Paul calls on his own testimony of faithfulness to his ministry to bolster up this young man whom he described as his ‘son in the faith’.

The previous chapter ended with Paul exhorting Timothy to avoid ‘foolish and ignorant disputes’. To remain calm, gentle and composed, patient in his dealing with opposition. But in humility of spirit, to be firm in his correction of those who opposed him. Our reading today continues that wise counsel with the warning of the certain ‘perilous times’ ahead. Paul was right then and he is right today. Just look at the list of ‘perils’ he outlined for the young Timothy. “For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money (from which comes a root of all kinds of evil), boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power.”  Did Paul miss anything out? It is a list worthy of our close attention. Note these descriptors, so easily recognizable in our own society today. Why note them? Because these are the signs Paul said would be evident ‘in the last days’. We cannot be sure of the prevalence of these things in Timothy’s time in Ephesus, but they were there, all of them. What we can be sure of is the evidence of our own eyes as we look at today’s society. It may sound overly strong to us today, but Paul’s language is unequivocal, “from such people turn away”. And very often we don’t!!

Jannes and Jambres present another difficulty for some because there is no Scriptural record of them other than here. They are considered to be the magicians (sorcerers), who appear in extra-biblical texts, and of whom the scholarly Paul evidently had knowledge. These are the persons to whom Paul likens those who resist the truth of the Scriptures themselves. Indeed as they obviously resisted Moses! To that extent then, we can say that there are plenty of Jannes’ and Jambres’ alive and well today can’t we? Different names, but the same type of people. Get a picture here of the timeless universality of the Scriptures. Written millennia ago, but as relevant now as they were then. And if they are not, then all we read is just an interesting story book!

So Paul further encouraged Timothy to stand fast in his faith. “Continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them.” Do you have, as Timothy did (and as I did) an older, dedicated, trustworthy, unwavering, reliable, Christian teacher. An example to emulate, who can lead you into paths of righteousness? If not, find one! And this is the promise of God in Paul’s words “from childhood (literally in Timothy’s case, but also as a new believer for many) you have known the Holy Scriptures which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Yeshua Ha’Mashiach (Jesus Christ).” Did it ever occur to you that the ONLY Scriptures Paul knew and to which he was referring here is what we know as the Old Testament? And there is more, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”  It is important to understand that our God, who does not change (Malachi 3:6) provided for Timothy “instructions for righteous living” in the Hebrew Scriptures, and in order to ‘seek out and save the lost sheep of the house of Israel’ sent His own Son Yeshua, so that one day He will make with those who are His ‘a new covenant’ signed and sealed (guaranteed) in the blood of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach.

As we try to embrace the Hebraic understanding of Pauls writing here, take note of the charge he gave to Timothy to preach the word, convince, rebuke, exhort, with sound doctrine, as he ended this letter of encouragement. How can anyone not see the perilous state of many of our denominational church structures today in Paul’s warning to Timothy. “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.”  When did you last hear a call to repentance from the pulpit? When Paul gave Timothy the charge to ‘preach the word’ it was “before God and the Lord Jesus Christ who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom”. He will re-appear as the righteous Judge. He will rule with a ‘rod of iron’. There will be no unrighteousness in His kingdom. And those who teach to ‘tickle the ears’ of their hearers will endure harsher judgement (James 3:1)

Paul himself said “I am already being poured out as a drink offering”. A reference to the wine libation which accompanied sacrifices made at the altar in the Temple. Now the sacrifice is Yeshua, and Paul saw himself in a servant appendage role to that sacrifice. I believe he was encouraging Timothy to see his own service in that light. If I correctly interpret the Hebraic understanding, then as indeed should we.       

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   40

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

2 Timothy  1 : 1  to 2 : 15

Paul wrote this second letter to Timothy from Rome shortly after his first letter. It seemed that Paul was concerned to encourage the young Timothy to be strong in his faith as the onerous task of leading the “ekklesia” in Ephesus took some toll on the young man’s resolve! Some had already deserted Paul (other than their names we have no other detail) but Paul calls on his own testimony of faithfulness to his ministry to bolster up this young man whom he described as his ‘son in the faith’.

The opening salutation gave a hint that Paul discerned Timothy to be in some distress. He longed to set eyes on the young man to encourage him by his presence, but his imprisonment in Rome precluded that. So he carefully and skilfully reminded Timothy of the benefits of ‘pressing on’. His childhood teaching at the hands of his mother and grandmother. His life changing encounter with Paul, as by the laying on of his hands, Paul charged him with his ministry gifting. (This practise dates from the earliest days of the Israelites. Both for imparting blessing and favour, as in Numbers 8:10 where the people laid hands on the Levites to bless them with their priestly commission, and in Numbers 27:18 wherein Moses ‘passed his leadership role’ to Joshua. And it was also used for passing a curse of death as in the case of the High Priest and the ‘scapegoat’ at Yom Kippur.) It is noteworthy that Paul warned Timothy to take great care in the laying on of hands (1Timothy 5:22). And that is a lesson for those who do such today, because it is a powerful act in God’s eyes. So Paul used that to encourage Timothy that he had been commissioned for his task, by Paul, as proxy for God, in that circumstance.

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Masterly statement, as Paul expressed to Timothy that if he felt fear … of the task, of the situation, of his ability (or perceived lack of it), then that does not come from God. The situation may be difficult, even hard to see how it will work out, but that was not for Timothy, or us, to determine, because our calling, Paul said, is not according to our works, but according to the mighty power of Him who called us. Furthermore, God chose us ‘before time began’!! How amazing is that? And to back it all up, God sent His Son, Yeshua, and He, by His death and resurrection conquered death and brought to us immortality and light through the good news of the gospel. And if that’s not enough, Paul continued with the astounding fact that this same Yeshua appointed him, Paul, with the credentials to act in His Name. “I have committed myself to Him” said Paul, and “He will keep me in His care until I meet Him in Glory.” So “He will keep you too Timothy because I have laid my hands on you and blessed you, in His Name, for the task to which you are called”.

Friends, can we get a glimpse here of the certainty of the calling to which we, like Timothy, have been called. As our reading continues, Paul named ‘names’. That is all they are, just ‘names’, but those names speak to us of two different scenarios. Two ‘fell by the wayside’. Started right but gave up. Became lost. Tragic. One ‘remained faithful’. Trusting that in ‘that Day’, they will find ‘mercy from the Lord’ and hear those beautiful words “well done, good and faithful servant, enter into My Shalom”. We should all take careful note of these ‘names’, not to recall them, but to discern where we each stand. If Paul were writing these words today, which class would we be in? “Remaining faithful” to our calling is costly. It was costly for Paul, it was costly for Timothy, no ‘prosperity teaching’ from Paul here is there? (Paul actually told Timothy that ‘he must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ’) and it was costly, very costly, for Yeshua who gave Himself as ransom for us. For a reality check on ourselves just read again Matthew 7:21-23!! How can we be sure? Read John 14:15 noting the positive “will keep” which is the correct sense of the original text.

This encouraging Scripture includes one of my all-time favourite quotes. “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” Take time to absorb the message Paul gave Timothy here. What was the ‘word of truth’ that Timothy had? It was the “Tanakh”. (Tanakh is an acronym of the first Hebrew letter of each of the Masoretic Text's three traditional subdivisions: Torah ("Teaching", also known as the Five Books of Moses), Nevi'im ("Prophets") and Ketuvim ("Writings")—hence TaNaKh.) Many have been taught today that these Scriptures are ‘obsolete’, replaced for Christians by the Apostolic Scriptures. But, it is by the careful study and application of these very Scriptures that Paul said, and encouraged Timothy, he could be ‘approved to God’ with the condition attached that those Scriptures be ‘rightly divided’ (properly understood), valued, and applied.

Note in the above description of the word ‘Tanakh’ that ‘Torah’ means ‘teaching’. “The Lord knows those who are His” said Paul “Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” Surely, observance of God’s ‘teaching’ must go a long way in that direction. Especially when that ‘teaching’ is ‘rightly divided’, understood, and correctly applied. In my view, it is as we understand these Scriptures in their Hebraic context that we will better be able to ‘endure to the end’ and earn that “well done good and faithful servant”, which is the end result of our salvation.

Shabbat Shalom 

RS                            

Brit Hadashah Reflections   39

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

1 Timothy  5 : 1  to 6 : 21

Timothy was born in Lystra of a Greek father and a godly Jewish mother, Eunice. With the able assistance of his equally godly grandmother, Lois, he was schooled in the Hebrew Scriptures from an early age. As a very young man, he met with Paul, whom he joined in ‘apprentice’ ministry. Later entrusted with the oversight of the “ekklesia” in Ephesus, it was there he received these encouraging pastoral letters, probably written during Paul’s imprisonment years in Rome.

Paul continued his fatherly advice to the young Timothy in his role as leader of the “ekklesia” in Ephesus. He wrote about the way Timothy should relate to people of different age groups. It is sound practical advice. That he recognizes that older people, with many years of life experience probably already know things that younger people are still learning. And that he understands that, for a young man in his position, the younger women may have a capacity to misunderstand his actions as he embarks on teaching them. So Paul entreats him to show proper respect for each age group. Widows are given special mention. Those “who are real widows” is a reference to the fact that they have special needs because they have lost the support of husbands who took care of them. English translations suggests some might even claim to be widows but are not. The Torah commands that widows and orphans are to be cared for because of their particular vulnerability. There was no ‘social security department’ of Governments, so the “ekklesia” was expected to provide that security for its needy members. However, there is also the injunction that those with close relatives should be provided for by those relatives. Additionally, there is the need for sound judgment in respect of widows, who when married were both hospitable and good mothers, and might still be able to attract another husband!

It is clear that Paul had expectations that married women should be engaged in the care of their homes and their families. A full-time task for any person. It is a matter for speculation what Paul might write today to an “ekklesia” which has families with small children. It seems almost a given today that both parents continue in their pre-marriage occupations, and many times small children are handed over to complete strangers in a child-care centre for their early life training. The very time when they are so impressionable! “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” is the way Solomon expressed it in Proverbs 22. Attitudes and practices are sown into the minds of very young children by those who care for them.     Selah.

Paul instructed Timothy to teach the people to care for their own family when they had the capacity to so do, and not to rely on handouts from the rest of the ‘ekkelsa”. Those who laboured in the teaching ministry were not to be neglected either, if those duties impinged on their capacity to earn their own living. Then a curious inclusion. “Use a little wine for your stomach’s sake” is open to improper interpretation. Perhaps an emphasis on the word “little” would have been in order!! But this phrase appears in the middle of advice about taking care to delve into a person’s character before offering them the blessing of fellowship. It might have been that Timothy’s frequent bouts of infirmity was being taken advantage of by some. Paul was intent on impressing the young Timothy to take care of his own health so that he could make sound judgments about those in his sphere of influence, because Paul knew full well that the world has plenty of folk capable of hiding the truth if it brought advantage to themselves.

The ‘master/servant’ situation is difficult for us to fully comprehend in our modern society, but evidently there were cases where both master and servant were believers, and therefore “brothers in the Lord”. Sometimes this situation led to dispute and argument. Paul’s advice was that Timothy withdraw from such disputes, knowing that the relationship was one of complexity which needed to be worked out between the persons involved in love and respect for each other in their roles. (My personal experience as an employer of many christians in my business life gave me insight into the way some sought to use our “brotherliness” to gain advantage. Paul said there should be no partiality, and I came to understand that perfectly!).

Finally, a comment on another widely misquoted text. How often have you heard it said that “money is the root of all evil”? I have heard it often. But what Paul actually said was that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” Money is an everyday necessity in the conduct of our lives. There is great blessing in sharing that which God has provided with others in need. And it is not difficult to see “love of money” as ‘money accumulation’ for its own sake. Honesty before God, and with one’s self, soon reveals intent. For some, too much money is never enough!! That is ‘the love of money’. From that, Paul said, flows a root of all kinds of evil. Not the least being selfishness and avarice. “Command those who are rich to do good .. ready to give, willing to share” is what Timothy was told to say to the “ekklesia”. Let us ask God how we can use our money wisely, and to prompt us to seek areas of need.

 Shabbat Shalom 

RS                         

Brit Hadashah Reflections   38

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

1 Timothy  3 : 1  to 4 : 16

Timothy was born in Lystra of a Greek father and a godly Jewish mother, Eunice. With the able assistance of his equally godly grandmother, Lois, he was schooled in the Hebrew Scriptures from an early age. As a very young man, he met with Paul, whom he joined in ‘apprentice’ ministry. Later entrusted with the oversight of the “ekklesia” in Ephesus, it was there he received these encouraging pastoral letters, probably written during Paul’s imprisonment years in Rome.

“If a man desires the position of a bishop …” So Paul inadvertently opened a veritable ‘can of worms’ for religious leaders in the last 1700 years, since the Emperor Constantine convened the Council of Nicaea. The ‘church’, divorced from its Judaic roots, has conjured up a meaning which results in whole-hearted embrace of our hierarchical church structures, extending even to virtual dictatorship in some cases. Certainly it was always intended to be an exemplary position, as evidenced by the characteristics and moral standards listed for such person. But it was not a position of rank, as we understand it, but within the “ekklesia” a position of one who gives significant loving service, in humility, as a leader and teacher. Such a person, was encouraged by Paul to seek that close relationship with his Saviour and Lord in order to qualify him for such service as a true disciple of Yeshua.

There is endless discussion about Paul’s qualification list. Not many would honestly claim to fulfil them all. Often they would be mostly qualities recognized by others rather than presented by a particular individual in a job application sense. There is some ambiguity about one condition. Does “the husband of one wife” mean married only once? Or, as some hold, having only ‘one wife at a time’? Whatever it is, this formidable list means that a ‘bishop’ is a very special man indeed. Highly respected by the “ekklesia”, and carrying authority as a result. Deacons and their wives are similarly expected to have exemplary qualities. It is such a high standard, and this is for those who desire to be servants of the Lord within the “ekklesia”. So we might question why is such a standard expected? Paul provides the answer, “so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the “ekklesia” of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.” That is a remarkable undertaking. Paul is saying that those of us who are believers, present ourselves to the world as representatives of YHWH Elohim , and our behaviour, even in the way we conduct our family lives, impacts on those who are unbelievers because they look at us as God’s representatives. Check the list out again and do some self-assessment! It is extremely challenging. Over and over again I see the Scriptures as prescriptive of how we should behave, what we should DO, as opposed to what we say. They provide an instruction manual of righteous living, not just a series of feel-good stories.

Timothy is warned that “some will depart from the faith and give heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons.” In every “ekklesia” there have been attacks of the enemy resulting in some falling away. And one of those attacks is to quite subtly cause misinterpretation of this very instruction of Paul’s. In Chapter 4:3 the words “to abstain from foods” are used. Most of us were taught in our churches that this is a reference to the dietary laws of the Torah weren’t we? But it is not, otherwise we believe those dietary laws are part of “the doctrines of demons” according to verse 1. As in other epistles, Paul is warning Timothy against the philosophies of the Gnostics and Ascetics, which we remember teach that abstention from some things leads to a “higher spirituality”, allowing entry into the very courts of heaven. This is the “doctrine of demons”. The Torah, as we will discover later in our study of this letter, made Timothy “wise unto salvation” being, as it is, God’s instruction for righteous living.

Finally, for this week, Paul gives Timothy practical advice, of which every believer should take careful note. Having told him to ignore any who made comment on his youthful age, he said “be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” That is a good start eh? But then “Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership. Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.”  An encouraging charge to this young man. And if we read the Scriptures as they were intended to be read, it provides an encouraging charge to all of us too.

Of all Paul’s epistles, this one probably contains the most practical instruction to believers. We know it was written to a young man setting out on his pastoral call. But it is full of practical advice for any who desire “the position of a bishop”. That high calling to the service of our God and Saviour, to which all should aspire. But in that aspiration, take careful note of the path that Paul describes. The personal qualities necessary in such aspirant. The attention and diligence required in personal behaviour. The need to diligently pursue the God-given gift within. And perhaps then to steadfastly hold to the truth of God’s revelation, seeking, in prayer, His continual guidance and direction on a daily basis. You will be blessed as you study this letter of Paul’s to the young Timothy.                      

Shabbat Shalom 

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   37

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

1 Timothy  1 : 1  to 2 : 15

Timothy was born in Lystra of a Greek father and a godly Jewish mother, Eunice. With the able assistance of his equally godly grandmother, Lois, he was schooled in the Hebrew Scriptures from an early age. As a very young man, he met with Paul, whom he joined in ‘apprentice’ ministry. Later entrusted with the oversight of the “ekklesia” in Ephesus, it was there he received these encouraging pastoral letters, probably written during Paul’s imprisonment years in Rome.

Paul’s concern, affection, and care for Timothy is immediately obvious from his introductory words. “A true son in the faith”. What a tribute!

The occasion when Paul “went into Macedonia” is not clearly defined in Scripture, (some think it may have been a time when Paul was released from prison in Rome and allowed to travel) but he obviously had some communication with Timothy then, and told him to stay in Ephesus and protect the “ekklesia” from false doctrine. I speculate here that possibly things were getting difficult for the young Timothy and he may have told Paul of the problems he was facing and that a change of scenery would be appreciated! By this stage of his life, Paul was well versed, both in the Scriptures and in the heretical doctrines which had sprung up to deceive and deviate believers from true faith in Yeshua as Saviour. In large measure, the falsehoods emanated either from Judaizers, as in the “ekklesia” in Galatia, or from philosophic Gnostics, as in Colossae. It seems likely that here in Ephesus the concern came from the teachers of the philosophers, described by Paul as ‘fables and endless genealogies’.

In his excellent commentary on the “Jewish New Testament”, David Stern sees two other possibilities. Firstly a pride based Judaism which took ancestry as a source of superiority. And secondly, a trend which is not uncommon today in Messianic believers, those who attempt to endlessly search for some trace of Jewish ancestry in justification of their elation at the affinity they find in their love of God’s chosen. He goes further, and I quote. “The modern day version of giving “attention to myths” and “speculating instead of doing God’s work” is excessive concentration on God’s plan for the future, so that people foolishly focus on doomsday and neglect good deeds here and now.”

The certainty is that this letter to Timothy contains many truths which apply, not only to the situation in Ephesus then, but to the reader of this letter today, and particularly to Pastors and Teachers of “ekklesia” in the 21st century. Writing about that sincere faith, Paul concludes “from which some, having strayed have turned aside to idle talk, desiring to be teachers of the law (God’s instruction for righteous living) understand neither what they say nor the things which they affirm.” That is straight talk indeed. There are many in our “ekklesia” today who even teach that the ‘law’ is obsolete!! Now understand this. When Paul gave these instructions to Timothy, the ONLY Scriptures available were the Torah, the Prophets and the Psalms. That teaching was not obsolete then and it is not obsolete today. Paul affirms again, as he instructed Timothy out of those Hebrew Scriptures, that God’s instruction was not for the righteous, but for the sinners, of whom we are part. If there is any doubt read verses 9 and 10, wherein he specifies readily identifiable sins. Then the good news. “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”. Paul claimed to be chief among them!

“There is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all”. No matter what the heretics and the philosophers teach. Gnostics hold that there are various beings between God and man. We remember that there was a time when Moses was the mediator between God and man. Yeshua became the promised “Prophet like Moses” in that sense.

As we continue in chapter 2, we come to Paul’s discourse on the role of women. In verse 8 he writes about men praying with uplifted hands (see Ps 63:4 and Ps 134:2) and verse 9 begins with the words “in like manner also”, which continues the theme of prayer. But mostly we concentrate our attention on the women’s dress etc. Now I believe, in the context of life in Ephesus at that time, to be a direct reference of comparison between the worshippers of God, and those women at the temple of Artimus in Ephesus (temple prostitutes no less) who were gaudily dressed to attract men’s attention! Additionally, the women in the “ekklesia” are exhorted to ‘learn in silence’. A Hebraic understanding here readily allows us to understand the priestly nature of a man’s position in his home. He was responsible then, and should be today, for the teaching and nurturing of his family in the things of God. Paul is instructing Timothy of his Pastoral role within the “ekklesia” of teaching men, many of whom would be Gentiles, in the manner and form of worship and conduct. It was Hebraic. It should be still!

The issue of women ‘teaching’ men is unpopular in our churches isn’t it? But Paul seems to be quite unequivocal in his declaration that women are not to exercise spiritual authority over men in the “ekklesia”. However, the word ‘silence’ is better translated ‘at rest’.                  

Shabbat Shalom  

RS

Torah Reflections      “Shavuot”

Torah portions    Exodus 19:1 to 20:23  and Numbers 28 :26 - 31

Haftarah portion   Ezekiel 1 : 1-28 and 3 : 12

The Torah of YHWH given to Moses

Leviticus 23 and Deuteronomy 16 have the commandments about annual observances of the “mo’edim”. (The Hebrew word for “appointed times”, which in turn is usually translated into English as “feasts”). These are times when God specified He would meet with His chosen ones.

Today, they are most often referred to as “Jewish Feasts”. That correctly describes the fact that they are observances remembered by Jews. But it is an incorrect understanding of the Scriptures.

When God gave these instructions to Moses, He carefully worded these ‘appointed times’ (mo’edim) as MY ‘mo’edim’. They may be characterized as times when God says, in effect, “I will be there to meet with you on these specific occasions”. Those who choose not to attend miss an opportunity of blessing through meeting with Him at His invitation.

This ‘appointed time’ is fixed in relation to Pesach. Seven Sabbaths plus one day later. ( In the Christian reckoning, it is called “Whitsun” and is seven weeks after Palm Sunday, but it bears no relationship at all to the ‘mo’ed’ of the Lord specified in Leviticus 23.) Some pretty exciting things happened at Shavuot, and the festival (also known as the Feast of Weeks) figures most significantly in the prophetic calendar as it relates to Yeshua.

Firstly, by Jewish calculation, and there is good evidence for it, this was the time when Moses was on the mountain communing with the Lord and receiving the instructions for righteous living, which we know as Torah. (see Exodus 19:1)  That, in my view is cause enough to celebrate. The very Word of God, which is ‘sharper than any two-edged sword’, came to us at this time of the year. An immeasurable blessing. My Bible tells me that Moses spoke “all that the Lord had told him” and wrote it in a book.(Exodus 24: 3 and 7). More importantly, that was the exact time that the first covenant was sealed, when the people voluntarily agreed as they said “all that the Lord has said we will do, and be obedient”.

Secondly, according to Acts 1, Yeshua returned to His Father 40 days after his resurrection from the grave. But He told his disciples to wait in Jerusalem. Just 10 days later was the festival of Shavuot. Jerusalem was overflowing with people, there for the festival from all over the known world (as it is today for the three pilgrimage festivals). Then came a sound ‘like a mighty rushing wind’. The Comforter, the Holy Spirit of God, the One who points to Messiah, was sent to minister His blessing to those who would receive it.

The disciples, already emboldened at meeting the resurrected Lord Yeshua, were imbued with power from on high. No longer the ‘shrinking violets’ who were shattered by the death of Yeshua on that cruel Roman cross. They spoke boldly to the throngs of people in the Temple courtyard, and miracle of miracles, the foreigners present all heard these fishermen from Galilee speaking in their own several languages. It is almost impossible to imagine. But by the power of the Holy Spirit of God, over three thousand were added to the company of believers that very day. Now that surely is another reason to celebrate.

But there’s more!!   Both events related above did not stop.

Today, we have the precious Holy Scriptures, written in so many of the world’s languages. The faithful Jews who were entrusted with those Scriptures have carefully preserved them for our blessing and instruction down through the ages. In the early days, meticulously copying by hand every ‘jot and tittle’. Every yod and vav.

The Holy Spirit of God is alive and well in the earth today. His role on earth is to point us to Messiah Yeshua, by any and all means possible. He brings strength to the ‘weary’, comfort to the ‘afflicted’, guidance to those who seek, and blessing to all who ask.

So if any still wonder why we should celebrate Shavuot, I trust that this ‘reflection’ will provide some answers. But there is a much greater and compelling reason. God commanded it. His promise, is included in the introductory remarks of this ‘reflection’. He will be there to meet all who come. It is a special time. It has never been revoked.

You will be blessed as you meet together and thank Him for His unspeakable gift.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   36

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

2 Thessalonians  1 : 1  to 3 : 18

1 Thessalonians was one of Paul’s earliest letters, full of encouragement. It is thought to have been written about 52 C.E., probably from Corinth, following a glowing report from Timothy after his recent visit there.  This “ekklesia” in Thessalonica was born (Acts 17) when Paul and Silas (Acts 16) had a vision to visit Macedonia. Because some misunderstanding arose from his first letter, Paul was constrained to write again a short time later. Today, it is a city called Salonika, of over 1 million people, it was then an important port city on the Aegean Sea.

Some commentators think that the two letters to this “ekklesia” were written by different people, because they consider that there are some contradictions about the second coming of Yeshua contained therein. This is not the case. Certainly there appeared to be some apparent misunderstanding, which Paul was quick to explain in this second letter, and to that extent we should be mindful that here we have an expansion, or more complete account, by Paul, of the events which he said would take place before Messiah Yeshua would return to this earth. As is the case with all Scripture it is quite unwise to “cherry-pick” individual verses to build a doctrine. And most of us are quite capable of, and reasonably good at, that!

If there had been telephones then, Paul might have cleared up the problem with a quick chat. But distances were substantial for the mode of transport available, and handwritten letters had to be conveyed in person from one place to another. In the intervening time frame, any misunderstanding would have had plenty of time to take root. That appears to be the case here, and also Paul addressed some issues of false teaching which had crept in to the “ekklesia”. We ‘reflected’ last week about the fact that some members had stopped working because of their conviction that Yeshua’s return was imminent. Possibly even in the next several days or so. Paul addressed that in his first letter, but obviously not well enough!  The chapters and verses in our Bible today are convenient for reference but did not exist in the original! However, in chapter 1 Paul again commends this “ekklesia” for its faith walk, and encouraged them that their detractors would receive their just rewards from God Himself. Obviously, there were ‘imitators’ of Paul sowing seeds of doubt and confusion in their ranks regarding the teaching about the return of Christ. Some even holding that Christ had already returned! Paul countered this with “Let no one deceive you by any means: for that Day (of the Lord) will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition.” Here clearly, Paul is declaring at the very least that the ‘Day of the Lord’ will come AFTER the revelation of ‘the Beast’ of Scripture, which most identify as ‘the Anti-Christ’, and that revelation will not be positive until he demands to be worshipped in the Temple. But at present there is no Temple, but there was when Paul wrote this letter. For that reason we are better placed to understand the timing of the Lord’s return than were those who lived in Paul’s day.  Interestingly, this ‘anti-christ’ is also described as “the man of lawlessness”. To the extent that that is a description of someone who separates himself from Torah (which is translated as “Law” in our Bibles), the world, and even the present day church, is brim full of candidates for that role. It is also an inconvenient truth that many of our churches today see great revival coming! Well that may well be, but should that be the case, then the Lord’s return is even further away than many of us think, because Paul declares that Yeshua’s return will be preceded by a great falling away!

We take this declaration of Paul lightly at our peril. He was taught by the Lord Himself, and his words are to be carefully noted. He actually describes a situation we see today with this statement. “The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of truth, that they might be saved.” There is such deception abounding today. The forces of the evil one are rampant in society at large, and in many countries, including Australia, it is even against the law of the land to speak opposition (under threat of their being offended) to these evil influences in our community.   Then “finally”, Paul often has a “finally” doesn’t he? And this “finally” has some real bite, because Paul seeks to crystalize all that he wanted to say when he began to write! He assumed an air of authority, and he didn’t mince his words, so please take careful note. He prayed for their deliverance from unreasonable and wicked men, then assured them that the Lord would guard them from the evil one. But there were conditions. He went into “command” mode. Space does not permit expansion here, but his words are sufficient. “Withdraw from a fellow brother who walks in a disorderly way!!” He reminded them that he provided them with the example of ‘orderliness’. With an eye on those who used the excuse of the Lord’s imminent return to stop working he said “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.” How direct is that? But there was more. “Any who disregard” my word in this letter is to be ostracised.” Wow! But do not treat him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother (in love). So much for the wishy washy way some deal with issues today eh?               

Shabbat Shalom 

RS          

Brit Hadashah Reflections   35

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

1 Thessalonians  4 : 1  to 5 : 28

One of Paul’s earliest letters, full of encouragement, is thought to have been written about 52 C.E., probably from Corinth, following a glowing report from Timothy after his recent visit there.  This “ekklesia” in Thessalonica was born (Acts 17) when Paul and Silas (Acts 16) had a vision to visit Macedonia. Today, it is a city called Salonika, of over 1 million people, it was then an important port city on the Aegean Sea.

An interesting start to this week’s reading. “… we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God;” We all know that there is nothing that we can do to gain favour with God in relation to our salvation is there? For that reason, we have been taught, or at least I was, that “works” are somehow a bit suspect! But that is not the case in Judaism. Quite the opposite. Many wealthy people in the Jewish community rank among the world’s most generous philanthropists. Why? Because it is a solemn command of God that if it is within ones power to help any in distress it is that persons duty to do it. The Apostle James put it this way, “Therefore to him that knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin”. Sometimes it is difficult to imagine that we could actually please God by our actions. But I have long advocated in these ‘reflections’ that not only can we please God, we should set our hearts on making it our objective! And my view is that that may be best achieved by taking heed to God’s instruction for righteous living. I think that puts a smile on the face of our gracious Heavenly Father. Paul was way ahead of me in that!

So Paul exhorts the “ekklesia” to treat their personal relationships with honour and respect. He emphasized the commandments which God gave to Moses here. “For God did not call us to uncleanness, but to holiness”. They, and we, are to be set apart from the practices which may be acceptable in the world (and certainly in our world today) but which are completely unacceptable for the believer. There should be a behavioural distinction between those who know God as their Heavenly Father and those who do not. As Paul said to the Ephesians, “we are to walk worthy of the calling to which we are called.” Our faith should be obvious. We are not to just meld into the crowd. Un-noticed. Hidden almost. The Apostle James said “Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” And that is precisely the message Paul was conveying to these saints in Thessalonica. But they were not without commendation. They had a love for one another which was enviable. But it appears that they were expecting the imminent return of Yeshua, to the point where some of them had stopped working! So he had to address this issue directly, exhorting them to work diligently, leading quiet lives, so that they could continue caring for themselves and others.

Then Paul wrote about the return of the Lord. This passage of Scripture has been discussed and debated ‘ad nauseum’. It is generally considered to be a statement about what is called “the rapture”. A word which does not appear in the Bible, but most believers have a view about it. Its timing is not specified. Is it before ‘the great tribulation’? In the middle of it? Or is it at the end of it? Well friends, I do not think it helps to speculate. What we may be sure of is that Paul was certain that Yeshua will one day return to this earth, and His coming will be heralded by the sound of the Shofar. And that day will come “as a thief in the night”, which suggests it will take some by complete surprise! But Paul also says that those of us who know Him should not be in darkness, there are plenty of pointers in Scripture to allow us to be prepared. For example, there is good reason to think, in my view, that it will be at a time of celebration of the Feast of Trumpets but no-one knows which year. The critical issue of concern for us, is to ensure that our name is written in the “Lamb’s Book of Life”, so that we will be among those who are there when He does return.

This letter ends with some extremely practical advice for every “ekklesia”. Give proper consideration and esteem to those who labour with you and over you in ministry tasks. Do not tolerate unruly behaviour in your assembly. Comfort those who are fearful and uncertain. Uphold those among you who are weak and need encouragement. Exercise patience in your dealings with people. Pursue that which is good, because if it is good for you it is good for others. Pray. Let your requests be made known to God. Give careful attention to prophecies, study the Scriptures which contain those prophetic promises. Test everything you do, and everything you believe, and every wind of doctrine against the yardstick of Scripture, the rock on which our faith is founded. Abstain from everything that is evil.

This is an “ekklesia” which has started well. It has challenges of course, but considering that it had only been established a few short years, Paul was delighted with their progress in the faith. Timothy had brought a good report, and Paul was anxious to make another visit to them as soon as he could. But next week, we will see that a few years later he found it expedient to write to them again on other issues!      

Shabbat Shalom

RS   

Brit Hadashah Reflections   34

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

1 Thessalonians  1 : 1  to 3 : 13

One of Paul’s earliest letters, full of encouragement, is thought to have been written about 52 C.E., probably from Corinth, following a glowing report from Timothy after his recent visit there.  This “ekklesia” in Thessalonica was born (Acts 17) when Paul and Silas (Acts 16) had a vision to visit Macedonia. Today, it is a city called Salonika, of over 1 million people, it was then an important port city on the Aegean Sea.

Paul, Silas (a leader of the “ekklesia” in Jerusalem, Silvanus being his Roman name) and Timothy were ministering in Greece. It is not difficult to imagine the prayerful consideration these men would have given to the various “ekklesia” which had been established on their missionary journeys. Paul and Silas had a particularly difficult time in Philippi, about 100 miles to the north, and were blessed by the welcome they had received in Thessalonica as they preached the gospel message. For three Sabbaths, in the local synagogue, they proclaimed the good news of the Messiah Yeshua. As usual they had a mixed reception from the Jews, but were joined by a large number of people from the local Gentile community. It may be assumed from verse 5 that there was an outpouring of miraculous signs and wonders evident as Paul preached the word there. The result was that many people followed Paul and Silas, before being directed, by them, to Yeshua, the source of their powerful gospel message. Such was the response that the message was being spread to the whole neighbourhood, and beyond, and it excited Paul to marvel at the way God was working through them. Such deprivations as they had encountered in preaching the word along the way were considered of no consequence.

Chapter 1 ends with the triumphant declaration of the change which had taken place in the people who became this “ekklesia”, many of them came from the idolatrous worship of inanimate idols of wood and stone (which the prophet Jeremiah said could do neither harm nor good because they were lifeless!) to the worship of the God who lives. And further to wait, in their service to Him, as do we, for the return to this earth of Yeshua, the Saviour of this wicked world. But Paul knew full well that ‘the wolves’ would appear in all manner of guises to prey on these vulnerable new born lambs. So in chapter 2, verses 3 – 10, he contrasts the manner of his own teaching and conduct among them with the less honourable conduct of various ‘peddlers’ of the gospel message. We might even recognized some as still alive and well in our own society up to the present day! The main theme here is the practise of Paul to not use the gospel for personal gain, other than that which may accrue, and be assigned by God Himself, on the day of judgement, which every person who ever lived will face (Revelation 20:13). However, it was accepted practise for a visiting teacher to be afforded hospitality in the form of food and lodging, but in many cases Paul chose to work as a ‘tentmaker’ to support himself.

There was hardship endured within this “ekklesia”, and persecution too, both from local unbelievers and from those we identify as Judaizers. So Paul commended and encouraged them with a comparison between their own experience and that of their brothers in Christ in Judea. The home of the earliest believers in Yeshua. He described the Thessalonians as “imitators” of the Judean “ekklesia”. Paul’s intent being to show the sameness between the two “ekklesia”. Their experiences followed very similar paths. The text in Greek is unambiguous about this identity as “Judeans”, a description applied here to those who were believers and to those in their community who were not. But many Bible translators have regrettably substituted the word “Jew” in its place. Some translations even exaggerate the use of the word “Jew” to emphasize the opposition to the “ekklesia”. And together with the translator’s arbitrary use of a comma between verses 14 and 15 (there were no comma’s in the original Greek), has resulted in Paul being identified as anti-Semitic, and by extension anti-Torah, because the use of the word “Jew” has an all-inclusive application, especially in today’s anti-Semitic world. And it is misleading.   The “ekklesia” in Thessalonica was a joy and delight to Paul. Their progress in matters of faith and practise were exemplary, as Timothy reported following his recent visit there. But Paul was aware that there would be the inevitable attacks of the enemy. He had been around long enough to see the pattern of opposition, both from Judaizers who might attempt to convert them to Judaism, in substitution for their faith in Yeshua, and from others, unconscionable teachers, who might prey on their infancy in the foundational knowledge of the history of God’s chosen. It is not unlike the situation today. Those who are ‘babes’ in the Word (either through infancy of faith or laziness in study of the Word) are vulnerable to every wind of change in doctrinal matters. Be assured that Satan knows ‘every trick in the book’ (and some more!) when it comes to distracting believers from the absolute truth of God’s Word.  Paul’s prayer for this “ekklesia”, distilled in words with which chapter 3 ends “So that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father..” are words which every teacher of scripture should pray for his audience. I pray this blessing on your life.       

Shabbat Shalom 

RS                    

Brit Hadashah Reflections   33

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Colossians  3 : 1  to 4 : 18

The township of Colossae no longer exists, not even the ruins! It stood (until it was destroyed in the 12th century) about 15 miles from Laodicea (of luke-warm fame), and about 100 miles inland, east of Ephesus. It is unlikely that Paul ever visited the place but he wrote because he had ‘heard of their faith’, and in order to counter influences from those of Gnostic and Ascetic persuasion.

Last week we noted that Paul dealt with certain doctrinal issues, in which he emphasized the supremacy of faith in Messiah Yeshua alone as the basis of their faith for salvation. This was set alongside the teaching of the Gnostic and Ascetic philosophies which were being introduced as behavioural options into the “ekklesia” in Colossae. “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” was his message as he sought to provide them with a practical guide to righteous living. The dictionary defines “asceticism” as ‘severe self-discipline and avoiding of all forms of indulgence, typically for religious reasons.   "acts of physical asceticism."’  Paul had told them to “let no man judge you in food and drink etc”, which has erroneously been equated with the prohibition of the Torah dietary laws by many. The opposite is true. This is just one example which Paul used to encourage their “orderly walk” in matters of God honouring righteous living (Torah observance) rather than following the futile influences of the particular self-disciplinary philosophies of this world as a supposed stepping stone to ‘higher spirituality’.

Then Paul provides the real answer to ‘higher spirituality’! It is a long and extremely practical list of things to avoid and things to do. There are things we recognize in all of us (but usually in someone else!) which are covered by Paul’s list. “Put to death fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” he said. Those things should all be part of your past. But there might still be some things still lurking there, so “put off (that is do it yourself) anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth. Don’t lie to each other.” Paul is not philosophising here. This is straight from the shoulder stuff. He is not describing some magically appearing behavioural trait. You do it. You put off these things. This is the “new man” you claim to be. It is not specific to any type of person. Greek, Jew, circumcised, uncircumcised, slave, free-man, every background. It applies universally to those who confess Christ as Lord of their life. It applies to me. It applies to you, if you are counted as one of God’s elect! Having cast off those unseemly habits, with what should they be replaced? I am greatly challenged as I write this ‘reflection’ because I see clearly that what follows is another list that is not naturally inherited, it is another list of behavioural choices that I can decide to make myself.

“Put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.”  Good start eh? But that is not the end. “Put on love, which is the bond of affection.” And when you get that all right you will know the peace of God which will rule in your hearts. Immediately following this impressive list of things to do, Paul turns to possibly the most important of relationships, because much of it takes place behind closed doors! They are relationships within families. Wives are expected, even commanded, to be submissive to husbands. In real life (Paul was never married) it is more likely to happen in a truly loving environment, which is a command that husbands are charged to engender. In another Epistle, Paul goes further. A husband is commanded to love his wife as Christ loved the “ekklesia” and gave His life for her! It is also true that men are given a priestly role in their home. Another responsibility is to be a teacher, a guide, an example. What is NOT intended here, men, is the role of dictator.  And regrettably, too often men, to their shame, are apt to see this exhortation of Paul in that light, the more is the pity.

The statement which follows this list of relationship issues is an oft quoted and highly commendable encouragement of attitude for all believers. “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” And there we usually stop! But Paul isn’t finished. “But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality.” Now, my dear friends that is a conversation stopper. It is not a mere throw-away line of Paul’s. Read it carefully. It is a solemn promise to be taken seriously. As indeed should all of Paul’s writings when properly understood in their context of Hebraic thought.  Finally, we have another pearl from our beloved Apostle Paul. Another exhortation for all of us to heed. “Walk in wisdom towards those who are outside (“the ekklesia”), redeeming (not wasting) the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt (as a sacrifice to the Lord), that you may know how you ought to answer each one (about your faith).” What good words to end our ‘reflection’ on this letter to the “ekklesia” in Colossae. Be blessed as you read it through Hebraic eyes.                    

Shabbat Shalom           

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   32

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Colossians  1 : 1  to 2 : 23

The township of Colossae no longer exists, not even the ruins! It stood (until it was destroyed in the 12th century) about 15 miles from Laodicea (of luke-warm fame), and about 100 miles inland, east of Ephesus. It is unlikely that Paul ever visited the place but he wrote because he had ‘heard of their faith’, and in order to counter influences from those of Gnostic and Ascetic persuasion.

The main focus of this Epistle is ‘Christ is the head’ of the “ekklesia”. Paul had become aware of their existence and their faith (possibly through meeting Philemon, but more likely from Epaphras, a Colossian who worked with Paul in Ephesus). In any event this “ekklesia” was on Paul’s prayer list! His prayer for this community of believers is classic in content and expression. He says “We do not cease to pray for you and to ask that you be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may have a walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God …” A prayer that we would do well to copy in our intercession for others we know, and even for ourselves!

Paul then continued with the statements emphasizing the pre-eminence of Yeshua, our Lord and saviour. He is the One worthy of our adoration and worship. He is the One presented as the very image of God Himself. He is above all, through all, in all. Everything created was through Him and for Him. He was with God before creation. And it is by Him that sinful man has access to the Throne Room of Almighty God. It was important to Paul that he lay the foundation of Yeshua’s deity and pre-eminence before them because of the issues he knew they were encountering. Paul was not the ‘founding Apostle’ of this “ekklesia”. He had not had the opportunity to teach them, as he had in some other “ekklesia” in that region. And so it was that they had been influenced, according to reports received by Paul, by the heretical beliefs of Gnostics and Ascetics. They held views about multiple and competing deities, all of whom, they said, had equal claim on man’s time and worship. (That, at least is the simple explanation!).

That, of course, was not Paul’s view, and neither is it ours. So Paul then established his own authoritative credentials as the then present day representative of the gospel of Messiah Yeshua. It had been a mystery for centuries that the God of the Jew is also the God of the Gentile (pagan) who turned to Him in faith, as these “Colossians” had done. But there was to be no compromise with ‘other gods’ (as the philosophical heretics taught). Now put on your “Hebraic” hat, because what follows in Colossians 2 is taught today as a justification, (from this Jewish Rabbi Sha’ul no less) for the obsolescence of Torah commands for the church! This presents a grave misunderstanding of Paul’s actual words to this “ekklesia”. And the words are important to our understanding. Paul says “I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.” Do you recall the Jerusalem Council telling Paul to demonstrate his orderly walk and keeping the ‘law’ in Acts 21:24? It’s the same order! And there is more. He continues “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ”. Friends, Paul has Gnosticism and Asceticism in his sights here, not the Torah of God.

And he gets right to the point in saying “Let no-one judge you in food and drink or regarding festival or a new moon or Sabbaths, which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.” Space does not allow a fuller explanation here, but the “mo’edim” of God, His appointed times, the festivals, were presented as a shadow, a practice, a forerunner, an example, of things to come! (some of which have already been completely accomplished in the life, death, burial and resurrection of Yeshua, as has the giving of the Holy Spirit of God. The, as yet unfulfilled, “mo’edim” of Yom Teruah, Yom Kippur and Feast of Tabernacles will be fulfilled when Yeshua returns to rule and reign from Jerusalem).

When Paul declares “Therefore if you died with Christ, from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations -.”  Now the anti-Judaic early years of Christendom (specifically since the Council of Nicea in 324 C.E.) has tied these words of Paul into the spurious argument of ‘grace v law’. But it is classic Asceticism to which he is referring. See how he continues. “These things have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, ….” This has nothing to do with Judaism, as is supposed by some, but there is enough similarity there to throw many off the track.

If we get it straight about Paul’s testimony of ‘conversion’, from Pharisaic Judaism to Messianic Judaism, it becomes clear that Paul was never an anti-Torah teacher. Why? Because he is a faithful follower of his Master, Yeshua, who is, after all, the living Torah and example to us all.

Shabbat Shalom     

RS                 

Brit Hadashah Reflections   31

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Philippians  3 : 1  to 4 : 23

Philippi was a major city of Macedonia. Read Acts 16 for interesting detail about Paul’s first visit there. There is no mention of a synagogue in Philippi so Sabbath prayer was made at a riverside location and it was attended by some prominent local ladies. The letter was most likely written about 62 C.E., early in Paul’s Rome imprisonment to thank the “ekklesia” for their help and generous support. The central theme of the letter is the preservation of unity in the “ekklesia” through Christ alone.

Why does Paul say “for me to write the same things to you”? I venture into speculation when I conclude that he refers to things he had already written to other “ekklesia”. Specifically to the Galatians when he took issue with Judaizers, who were insistent that salvation for Gentiles could only be obtained by circumcision and works of the law. “Beware of the mutilation” he said. A clear reference to those who had submitted to circumcision, most likely Gentile proselytes in this case. but they may have been Jews (unlikely). Paul emphasized his own credentials as a Torah observant Jew who was perhaps the most ardent of Judaizers before his conversion experience, when he had revelation that salvation was by faith alone, and that being only in the risen Christ. “I have suffered the loss of all things” (that man might consider important) he said, “but count that as ‘dung’ in order to gain the excellence of the knowledge of Christ.” (my slight paraphrase) In this way, Paul contrasts his teaching of Messianic Judaism with that of the orthodox Judaizers.

The great attribute, for which he had commended this “ekklesia”, was their life of righteousness, thoughtfulness, love and caring for the poor and needy (which included himself). He was anxious that this Spirit led action would not be lost to them by their trying to substitute the ‘traditions of men’ to gain that which they already had. As he continued, he opened up a subject with which some may take issue. Many believe that salvation, once accepted by a believer, cannot be lost. But here Paul said “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Yeshua Ha’Mashiach”. In his lead up to that (read his words carefully) he writes about “attaining to the resurrection of the dead” and similar expressions which indicate to me that for Paul, salvation was a continuing goal, not a ‘done deal’. We might remind ourselves here that Yeshua, on two separate occasions made reference to those “who endure to the end will be saved”. And Paul, in Romans 11 also referred to “branches being ‘cut-off’ due to their unbelief”. They are branches once attached to the natural Olive Tree, which is Israel. His warning was also to those ‘grafted in’ (Gentiles) who might also be broken off for the same reason!

If we open our “Hebraic” eyes here, we know that all Israel were saved out of Egypt after the first Passover. But not all those saved entered the Land of Promise. Further, and much later, all Israel was expelled from that Land because of laxity and disobedience to their Covenant promises. This is a matter for serious contemplation. It seems that in God’s eyes, salvation in Him is expected to result in a lifestyle of living righteously. Obedience to His commands and precepts. And we know from Revelation 20:12 that the final judgement is according to our works!

There seemed to be discord (unspecified) between two prominent women in the “ekklesia”. Last week we read how Paul implored the members to esteem others better than themselves. In that spirit, he invited them to “let your gentleness be known to all men”, assuring them that “The Lord is at hand” (to see what goes on). Then Paul quoted words which are a blessing to all who read them. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God which passes understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”  Some mistakenly take this as a promise of God to provide anything we care to ask of Him. But note here that Paul says the promise is to give us His peace (“shalom”). It is imperative that in bringing our requests before God that we take care seek His perfect will for ourselves, for our family, for our “ekklesia”. And as if to emphasize the issue, Paul come to a “finally’. These words to this Philippian “ekklesia” should be in our mind everyday of our life. Surely a recipe for joyous and righteous living.

“Whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy – meditate on these things.”

There is so much to be learned from this short epistle. Paul has written a most encouraging letter to these good folk in Philippi, and we can appropriate the blessings therein by taking heed to the counsel Paul has provided. He ends, but not boastfully, that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” and a promise to them that “my God shall supply all your need (that is not all you might want) according to His riches in glory, by Christ Jesus.” 

Be strengthened in your faith as you study this letter.    

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Torah Reflections         “Pesach 2”

Torah portion           Exodus 13 : 17  - 15 : 26

Haftarah portion     Numbers  28 : 16 – 25

The Torah of YHWH given to Moses

We come to the last day of the celebration and remembrance of “Pesach”.

The parashah narrative begins with the statement of fact that the Pharoah had finally agreed to “let the people go”. It continues with the story of the journey of escape from Egypt, and the drowning of the pursuing Egyptian army, and it ends with the provision of “sweet water” to drink out of the bitter waters of Marah.  A fascinating story.

These events are well known. Even non-Christian sceptics are familiar with the story, so we do not need to re-visit the detail. But we need to find the lessons for ourselves as the story unfolds.

Last week we focussed on the prophetic significance of the whole season of the three Pesach festivals. This week we learn of the detail of the way the event unfolded for them in practical terms. In fact, as we arrive at the very end of the “Feast of Unleavened Bread” in our study this week, we see the hand of Almighty God, and a picture of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach in this parashah.

We could look at the provision of food, which rained down from Heaven each night, sufficient to satisfy each family for the whole day ahead. And that which was not eaten that day rotted before the next day! It was to be gathered and eaten FRESH each day (Miraculously, the same food lasted TWO days when the weekly Shabbat came around).

The Apostle John, in Chapter 6 from verse 32, records the words of Yeshua when He described Himself as “the Bread of Life”. He goes further by relating the “bread from Heaven” in Moses time with Himself.

“Then Jesus said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, Moses did not give you the bread from heaven, but My Father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."

It is not going too far to equate the Israelites need for a daily gathering of that bread, with our need today for a ‘daily gathering’ of the bread which Yeshua is. He taught us to pray ‘give us this day our daily bread’. I believe that this phrase has both a literal and a spiritual meaning. We need to gather our ‘bread’ DAILY, just as those Israelites did in our parashah.

We could look at the provision of water. Moses was told to strike the rock, out of which poured an abundance of clean fresh, life-giving water. Our beloved Apostle Paul, writing to the church at Corinth used a most interesting description of this water.

“Moreover, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware that all our fathers were under the cloud, all passed through the sea, all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, all ate the same spiritual food,  and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ”

1 Corinthians 10 : 1- 4.

Paul is suggesting here that the miracle of the provision of water from the Rock extended to that Rock actually following them around!!  The plain sense of this is that it was Yeshua Himself, there with the Israelites on their journeying’s in the wilderness who sustained them with life giving water. On another occasion, when Yeshau was attending the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem, at the time of the water libationCeremony in the Temple He said:-

“On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water."” 

John 7 : 37,38

So then, as the “mo’ed” of Pesach concludes for another year, we remind ourselves that the Passover Seder which starts the celebration of this season always ends with the participants saying “Next Year in Jerusalem”. An anticipatory statement about the coming of Messiah. So we who are believers in Yeshau, can see the way in which this “appointed time” of Pesach not only speaks of Yeshau perfectly fulfilling His role as the ‘Lamb that was slain’, but also throughout the whole parashah we have reminders of His role in our lives as the sustainer of our life

For the believer, without Him there is no hope of life. With Him we have abundant life …. IF we choose to access it. Praise be to Him.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   30

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Philippians  1 : 1  to 2 : 30

Philippi was a major city of Macedonia. Read Acts 16 for interesting detail about Paul’s first visit there. There is no mention of a synagogue in Philippi so Sabbath prayer was made at a riverside location and it was attended by some prominent local ladies. The letter was most likely written about 62 C.E., early in Paul’s Rome imprisonment to thank the “ekklesia” for their help and generous support. The central theme of the letter is the preservation of unity in the “ekklesia” through Christ alone.

Paul’s first recorded visit to Philippi was as a result of a vision he had in Troas. The Holy Spirit having prevented him from following his original plan to visit “Asia”. That was about the year 50 C.E. It is possible, but not recorded, that he visited them again on his third missionary trip in about 55 C.E.,on his way through Macedonia to Greece. Three months later, on his way back, he spent Pesach with this “ekklesia”, a mostly Gentile congregation.  It seems that there were not enough Jewish men there to form a minion for a synagogue! So he would have had a good knowledge of the people in this “ekklesia”. He opens his letter encouragingly with “I thank my God for every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you with all joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach.”  That would surely put them in a good frame of mind to read the rest of the letter!

We see a little later in this letter that he was prompted to write by the arrival of Epaphroditus, one of the Philippi congregants, bearing some gifts for him in his imprisonment. This thoughtfulness had a profound impact on Paul and His prayer expressed the hope that they would (continue to) have wisdom, knowledge and discernment to see those thing which are excellent, so that they would all exhibit the ‘fruits of righteousness’, which, said Paul, came through an intimate knowledge of Christ our Saviour. In their gift to him he could see their behavioural outworking of love and concern. It is a prayer that we could very easily appropriate for ourselves isn’t it? We note that one of the principal aims of Torah living, alongside “loving God with all your heart”, is to care for those who are in need. Yeshua described it (quoting Leviticus 19:18) as “loving your neighbour as yourself.” These Philippians evidently practised what they believed.

Paul then assured these Philippian benefactors that in spite of his personal discomfort of imprisonment, God was using that to embolden others to speak up, bringing salvation, even to his captors. Some others however, were intent on attempting to enrich themselves at Paul’s expense by pretending to be bearers of the “good news”. But even that brought joy to Paul, because some were hearing the word from these frauds and were still coming to faith! And friends, that situation still exists today. Praise God. Paul confessed that he had a problem. “For me to live is Christ” he said, “but to die is gain.” He clarified that by saying that for him, dying and being with the Lord was desirable because it would free him of further trouble in this life, but to continue in this life would afford him more opportunity to be of service to the Lord here, and that thought brought him great joy.

As he sought to encourage them, he exhorted them to unity of spirit, in love, caring for each other. His words should be embedded in the heart of every believer. “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” What would our “ekklesia” be like if everyone had such an attitude? What would our nation be like if everyone adopted Paul’s exhortation? What would our world be like? Well the good news is that it’s coming. It will be just like that one day when everyone lives under the New Covenant. When God’s Torah is written on our hearts and put in our minds. When King Yeshua reigns in Jerusalem. And it may well be sooner than we think.

Paul used the unusual metaphor of “being poured out as a drink offering” in describing his life’s work. There was always a water libation associated with the Jewish sacrificial system, which came at the conclusion of the ceremony. We are apt to forget that at the time of Paul’s writing the Temple had not been destroyed and the sacrificial offerings were still being made in Jerusalem daily! Maybe Paul thought that he was nearing the end of his life (he actually lived another 6 or 7 years) and his service was concluding. So he promised to send his highly esteemed fellow worker, Timothy, as his emissary, to share in ministry with them. But he is also dispatching Epaphroditus, the one who had brought gifts from Philippi, not because he had failed in his task, but because the poor man had been terribly sick and was concerned that the “ekklesia” would be concerned about him. This is quite typical of the personal nature of this Epistle. It is warmly and compassionately written, showing his high esteem for this “ekklesia”. And there is more to come. 

Shabbat Shalom.   

RS             

Torah Reflections         “Pesach 1”

Torah portion   Exodus 12 : 21  - 51  Numbers 28 : 16-25

Haftarah portion     Joshua  5 : 2  to  6 : 1

Listen to the Prophets

The regular sequence of Torah readings is interrupted this week because of the “mo’ed” of Pesach.

Leviticus 23 and Deuteronomy 16 have the commandments about annual observances of the “mo’edim”. (The Hebrew word for “appointed times”, which in turn is usually translated into English as “feasts”). These are times when God specified He would meet with His chosen ones.

Today, they are most often referred to as “Jewish Feasts”. That correctly describes the fact that they are observances remembered by Jews. But it is an incorrect understanding of the Scriptures.

When God gave these instructions to Moses, He carefully worded these ‘appointed times’ (mo’edim) as MY ‘mo’edim’. They may be characterized as times when God says, in effect, “I will be there to meet with you on these specific occasions”. Those who choose not to attend miss an opportunity of blessing through meeting with Him at His invitation.

This festival, known as “Pesach” (Passover), embraces THREE festivals in a period of eight days. The first of these remembers the actual day in history (the 14th day of the first month, Nisan) when the Israelites experienced the ‘salvation’ of the firstborn in their families by placing the blood of the Pesach Lamb on the doorposts and lintels of their houses in Egypt. The Lord ‘passed over’ their houses when He saw the blood.

It also is the exact Hebrew calendar date of the crucifixion of Yeshua. The Christian celebration of Easter (replacing Passover) was formalized at the Council of Nicea in the days of the Emperor Constantine of Rome. It signalled the official separation of the “church” from its Hebrew roots. (In my view one of Satan’s major victories over mankind).

The second remembrance is known as the “Feast of Unleavened Bread” which occurs on the very next day, Nisan 15. (It is a High Sabbath), and it lasts seven days, and begins and ends with a special Sabbath,  Note that there are always three Sabbaths during this Pesach festival.  The “High Sabbath” which marks the beginning of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, (and the Sabbath which marks the end of the festival, PLUS the normal weekly Sabbath). It is this “High Sabbath” which is the Sabbath mentioned in John 19:31 before which the Jews were anxious to confine Yeshua’s body to the grave. Then the ‘normal’ weekly Sabbath occurred immediately prior to the resurrection of Yeshua. This confirms the statement of Yeshua in Luke 11:29 (as well as in Matthew and Mark) when asked for a sign. Read it. The complete lack of understanding of this fact has caused conventional church teaching to major on an incorrect “Good Friday” crucifixion story !

Unleavened Bread is eaten during the whole eight day period of the Pesach remembrance. To Jews it is a remembrance of the fact that they ate unleavened bread,(as commanded in Exodus 12:18) as they fled from Egypt on the night of Passover. Leaven is a symbol of SIN, so to believers, the Unleavened Bread also represents the sinless body of the Messiah which was buried in the grave for three days and three nights.

The third festival in this Pesach season is the “Feast of Firstfruits”. It occurs on the day AFTER the weekly Sabbath in Pesach week. (Always a SUNDAY). It signified the beginning of the Barley Harvest and was celebrated by a priest waving an ‘omer’ (a measure) of Barley in the temple in Yeshua’s day. But it was also the day on which Yeshua was resurrected from the grave. Believers refer to it as Resurrection Sunday. (but in association with Easter rather than Passover!) It signifies that Yeshua became the “Firstfruits from the dead”.  (see 1 Corinthians15:23).

We should be grateful that churches worldwide (all varieties) remember the death and resurrection of Yeshua.  And that they do so sincerely. But more and more, many people are realizing that our roots are inextricably founded in Judaism and the Lord’s “mo’edim” (appointed times). Those that do then focus more on Passover than Easter.

In addition to your own church fellowship, this year, take the trouble to find a fellowship of believers who celebrate Passover, and join them in that celebration. You will be enlightened, blessed and immeasurably enriched as you do.

Chag Sameach   (Happy Holiday)

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   29

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Ephesians  5 : 1  to 6 : 24

Ephesus is probably the most visited Biblical site outside of Israel. It was an important sea port and commercial centre on the Eastern coast of Turkey which was thought to be home to about ¼ million people at one time. Also an important cultural centre containing Greek and Roman antiquities. Paul wrote this letter from Rome about 5 years before his death. He left Timothy there to shepherd the young “ekklesia” whilst he continued his missionary travels. Ephesus has the distinction of being addressed by the Lord Himself in the letter He dictated to John (Rev 2: 11-17). It is largely a letter of encouragement and intended for all nearby local “ekklesia”.

Paul continued his exhortation to the Ephesus “ekklesia” to act out their own part in their faith walk. “Be imitators of God .. walk in love .. get rid of all the filth in your life.” Do not be deceived by empty words because the wrath of God comes on the sons of disobedience! You have embarked upon serious business with God. “Walk as children of light.”  All this advice and counsel is as relevant to us today as it was when Paul first wrote to the “ekklesia” in Ephesus almost 2000 years ago. Learn that there is a big difference between ‘free salvation’ and ‘no obligation salvation’. The Lord God Almighty has always expected those who are His to live in obedient accord with His standards. It’s called ‘righteous living’. And in our text today Paul is at some pains to spell that out loud and clear. He goes further, “and have NO fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them”, he says. That’s direct isn’t it?

You see, Paul is writing a pastoral letter. He is concerned for these people. It’s the type of life-giving message God gave him to preach. What sort of message do you get in your “ekklesia”? Is it a message of concern for your spiritual welfare? Or is it a ‘feel-good’ warm and fuzzy tickle? Paul gets quite personal as he continues. “Wives submit to your own husband, as to the Lord.” Now he couldn’t be more direct could he? He also had a word for husbands. “Husbands love your wives, just as Christ loved the “ekklesia” and gave Himself for her.” What kind of love was that husbands? Even with ALL our blemishes Christ gave Himself up to be crucified on a Roman cross! Did He ask that we love Him and be obedient to Him first? NO. His loving sacrificial death was unconditional. IT is my view that such unconditional love is so special that it is worthy of our obedience. And I think that is at the heart of Paul’s exhortation to the married couple. A little later Paul described the marriage relationship as a great mystery, as is Christ’s relationship to His “ekklesia”. But Paul never did get married because for him it would have been a distraction from his service to the Lord.

Children and bond-servants are also in Paul’s sight, as are those who are masters of servants, as he continued to exhort this “ekklesia” to pursue perfection and unity in their relationships. But he finally provided an all embracing solution to them to ward off the attacks of the enemy. “Put on the whole armour of God.” It would be surprising if many of those reading this ‘reflection’ hadn’t listened to at least ONE sermon on this topic. Paul is so aware, that notwithstanding the difficulties which can arise from within the “ekklesia’, the real enemy of our faith is Satan. He is ever active where people seek to serve the Lord. Our real enemy is not the person with whom we might disagree on some point of doctrine. “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness...”. So God has provided us all with a suit of armour. Regrettably though, we do not all wear it!! Or at least not all of it, and not all the time.

I need to point out again that what I write here is just a ‘reflection’, not a commentary. For that reason I commend you to get together with some Christian friend and have a close look at the armour which God provides. It will enhance your fellowship as you study God’s word together.

“Gird your waist with truth”. Do not just take what others say about the Scriptures. Study the word so as to be SURE what you believe, and why you believe it. “Put on the breastplate of righteousness”. Decide if and how you should modify your previous lifestyle to live as God has directed you. “Have your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace”. See to it that you are prepared to give account of the hope of your salvation. “Take the shield of faith with you”. Be prepared, as was Yeshua when He was tempted by Satan, to recognize those faulty quotations of Scripture (a favourite of Satan) to try to bring you down. Memorize the Scriptures. Then “Take the helmet of salvation”. Wear it as a sign of your allegiance to your faith. “Have the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God”. In fact it is sharper than any two-edged sword of steel. And the Psalmist tells us that “God has magnified His Word above all His name.” How powerful is that? Trust me when I say that the Word of God is so important to our own spiritual growth and well-being, plus it also provides a weapon of offence against Satan’s wiles. And that is exactly what Paul has written to encourage this “ekklesia” in Ephesus, and by extension to us as well. Be blessed as you study the Scriptures and remain in His love.       

Shabbat Shalom 

RS                    

Brit Hadashah Reflections   28

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Ephesians  3 : 1  to 4 : 32

Ephesus is probably the most visited Biblical site outside of Israel. It was an important sea port and commercial centre on the Eastern coast of Turkey which was thought to be home to about ¼ million people at one time. Also an important cultural centre containing Greek and Roman antiquities. Paul wrote this letter from Rome about 5 years before his death. He left Timothy there to shepherd the young “ekklesia” whilst he continued his missionary travels. Ephesus has the distinction of being addressed by the Lord Himself in the letter He dictated to John (Rev 2: 11-17). It is largely a letter of encouragement and intended for all nearby local “ekklesia”.

Having established that ‘breaking down the middle wall of separation’ had given new-found freedom for Gentiles to join “ekklesia” fellowship on equal terms with Jewish believers (see ‘reflection’ 27), Paul informed them that his appointment as the Apostle to the Gentiles when he encountered the risen Yeshua on the Damascus road (Acts 9) is part of the reason why he is imprisoned in Rome. Jew and Gentile were previously culturally and religiously separated. This new situation, something considered a mystery to earlier generations, and for which his personal role caused him much physical deprivation, is the result of the death and resurrection of Yeshua. Now, there is a very different division. Two groupings. Simply put, there are those who believe and there are those who do not. In God’s sight that is the new order. It persists today. The word “gentile’ being an all embracing word for “non-Jew”. There is a new “ekklesia” being built, with Yeshua as the Head, made up of ‘the one new man’, Jew and Gentile together in worshipful fellowship. It is an ongoing work of God.

Part of the problem many of us have in understanding Paul lies in the fact that in large measure he is a pioneer, establishing a new order of worship in a mixed congregation and in a Jewish setting at that. Whereas we have a natural tendency to visualize the situation in today’s terms, in which we see ‘the church’ as a building on the corner of the local high street. In Paul’s time ALL the Biblical background is found ONLY in the Hebrew Scriptures. Even the gospel accounts of the life of Yeshua on this earth, which we take for granted, were unpublished, except by word of mouth. It is so important for us to read Paul in the setting into which he wrote.

So he continued, asking them not to lose heart because of his tribulations as he faithfully brought the message to them. “I bow my knees to the Father” he says, “that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend and know the love of Christ which passes knowledge.” And he ends with the now well-known doxology. Please take time to ponder the depth of meaning in these beautifully prayerful words of Paul. “Now unto Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think (that is a staggering concept) according to the power that works in us (astounding).”

As Paul continued with his encouraging message into chapter 4 of our text he used words which are worthy of everyone’s deep reflection. He certainly got my attention!! “Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called”. Then he qualifies “worthiness” for them, and us. “With all lowliness, and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love” Wow! (Maybe you already belong to such an “ekklesia”. You are blessed indeed if you are.) “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Then to press the point of unity Paul lists a number of “Ones”. It is an impressive list. “One hope of your calling. One Lord. One faith. One baptism. One God and Father of all, who is above all, through all, and in you all.”

As he continued, he had a somewhat uncomfortable word for Gentiles, albeit with some encouragement to follow! Perhaps it might be too much to suggest that we could take Paul’s words as though they were written to us today, because they could well have been. To those who had already come to faith in Yeshua he said that they “should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles, in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God … because of the blindness of their heart;” The discomfort continued until he said in paraphrase “you didn’t learn those things from Christ, if you heard Him at all!” Then faith in action. Something we have to do for ourselves. “Put off your former conduct, (it does not disappear of its own accord) be renewed in the spirit of your mind, put on the new man. Be responsible for your own actions!” Further still, “do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.”

Friends, this is very practical counsel from Paul. Note that he does NOT say, “now that you have come to Jesus all your problems will go away,” as some teach today. He says you have to work at righteousness in your own life. Why? Because the reward is immense. Your name written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. It is the freely available gift of a Holy and righteous God, but it can be very costly, as indeed Paul knew full well. Didn’t he?              

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   27

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Ephesians  1 : 1  to 2 : 22

Ephesus is probably the most visited Biblical site outside of Israel. It was an important sea port and commercial centre on the Eastern coast of Turkey which was thought to be home to about ¼ million people at one time. Also an important cultural centre containing Greek and Roman antiquities. Paul wrote this letter from Rome about 5 years before his death. He left Timothy there to shepherd the young “ekklesia” whilst he continued his missionary travels. Ephesus has the distinction of being addressed by the Lord Himself in the letter He dictated to John (Rev 2: 11-17). It is largely a letter of encouragement and intended for all nearby local “ekklesia”.

Paul writes in glowing terms of the faithfulness and love for others which he recognized as a characteristic of this “ekklesia” in Ephesus. That, of course, is how it should be in every “ekklesia”. Then he wrote what he had been praying for them, “that they be given the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him (Yeshua)”. I imitate Paul, as I pray for those reading these ‘reflections’, “the eyes of your understanding being enlightened”, and that you may know “what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints”. Our task is to try to see the unmistakeable Hebraic nature of the Scriptures, especially the Apostolic Scriptures, recognizing that often times our former teaching, with its Greek mind-set, can easily get in our way! “The saints” Paul refers to are the faithful forefathers of the Hebrew Scriptures. The ones to whom ‘faithful obedience’ was counted as righteousness by a just and Holy God. The Ephesus “ekklesia” was a mixed congregation. Jewish believers, with a lifetime knowledge of the Hebrew Scriptures would surely have better understanding than the Gentiles, coming from a pagan background, who had joined them in the faith.

But regardless of background, Paul assured them that in Yeshua they had all been made “alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world”. And how did He accomplish that? “By grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”  Every one of them, and us, being equal in God’s eyes. All have walked through the same ‘door’. And by invitation too!

Then Paul embarked on an explanation of how the two peoples, Jew and Gentile, are being made into “One new man”. And most of us have been taught, and firmly hold onto, a totally un-Hebraic interpretation of Paul’s words. We all understand that Yeshua “is our ‘shalom’, our peace.”  And that “peace” is accomplished in Him as “the middle wall of partition is broken down.” This is an obvious reference to the barrier in the Jerusalem Temple Courts beyond which Gentiles were forbidden to pass. Now look carefully at the Scripture. Whilst the barrier existed, Jews were always permitted to enter the Court of the Gentiles. It was the Gentile who was ‘disadvantaged’ by the barrier. But Paul went further, describing that barrier an “enmity” separating Jew and Gentile. And further still, by calling that “enmity” as “the law of commandments”. (Note: it is worthwhile looking up the meaning of ‘enmity’ in a good dictionary).

So a huge question is raised here. How can the Torah (law of commandments) which is described by David in Psalm 19 as “perfect”, and by other prophets variously as “good, life, truth, light, the way, freedom, and by Paul himself writing in Romans 7:12 as ‘holy, and just and good’, be described as ‘enmity’?  That’s the same Torah which forms the foundation of the New Covenant! It is because it was a barrier which prevented the Gentile fellowshipping with the Jew! But in Yeshua, the barrier was torn down. The ‘enmity’ was removed. Gentile became free to participate in the same Torah as the Jew. And that is precisely what the Ephesus “ekklesia” was doing. Jew and Gentile fellowshipping freely in their synagogue. But how does our un-Hebraic mind interpret this? That the Jew is free to abandon the ‘perfect’ Torah in favour of .. what? Do you see, as I do, that we seem to get it all back to front? Our interpretation has the believing Jew, already having abandoned Pharisaic Judaism in favour of Messianic Judaism, now expected to change to a ‘rudderless’ fragmented modern church. Choose one of several optional doctrines!

Paul is much clearer. Writing to the Romans, he saw the Gentile believer becoming ‘grafted in’ to the Natural Olive Tree, which is Israel. Just like the Ephesus “ekklesia”, to whom Paul says Yeshua “preached peace to you who were far off (Gentiles) and to those who were near (Jews). For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father”. He then said that we become “fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God .. in whom the whole building, being fitted together grows into a holy temple in the Lord.” Jew and Gentile, one new man, worshipping our Saviour Yeshua together. It is already happening, but one day, when Yeshua returns, there will be no alternative for us to argue about. All believers will have the “Torah” written on their hearts and put in their minds by God Himself. At least that’s how my Bible describes the New Covenant.  And Paul knew it didn’t he?    

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   26

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Galatians  5 : 1  to 6 : 18

Please read the introduction (No. 23) for background to this Epistle

.

The convenience of chapter and verse divisions in our Scriptures can sometimes cause us to miss the flow of the actual letter, which is as Paul wrote it. So it is good to read back into the previous chapter(s) to remind ourselves of the subject matter. In this case Paul had just used the quite unusual analogy of the bond-woman and the free-woman in explaining the relationship between the yoke of bondage produced in Pharisaic Judaism (the bond-woman) and salvation through the child of promise (the free-woman). Hence the opening verse this week, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage”.

Now let us be clear in our thinking. This is almost invariably taught as a statement about the supposed obsolescence of Torah. It is NOT. How do we know that? Because it is inconceivable that Rabbi Sha’ul, a Torah observant Jew, disciple (imitator, copier, student, Apostle) of Yeshua, (who declared that anyone who taught against Torah would be ‘least’ in the Kingdom of Heaven), would teach such heresy. Additionally, from Paul’s own testimony before many of his accusers and judges in the Book of Acts, he many times affirms that that he had done ‘nothing against the customs of the forefathers’ (of Judaism). So what is it? It is a declaration that the free gift of salvation in Yeshua, cannot be earned, try as you might, by just keeping the man-made rules of Pharisaic Judaism.

Paul went further. He said that if anyone abandons the free gift of salvation in Yeshua and instead, attempts to rely on the man-made rules of Pharisaic Judaism for salvation, then that person “has fallen from grace”. Wow! This is serious business. Read it again! “You have been estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by the law; you have fallen from grace.” The word is crystal clear. No ambiguity about his topic. The mystery is how some so misunderstand it.

So salvation is through the sacrificial death of Yeshua, and those who find it are called by the Holy Spirit of God to walk in that faith. Paul then encouraged the “ekklesia” to “Walk in the Spirit, and you will not fulfil the lust of the flesh”. Now if anyone has doubt about what this means, Paul provides a l-o-n-g list, in Galatians 5: 19-21, for any who may be so inclined, to check themselves on how much “flesh” might remain, even in those who believe they have been saved! It is Paul’s list, not mine!

Then in absolute contrast Paul described the Spirit led, very well-known list of attributes which should be exhibited in the lives of all who “walk in the Spirit”. But it may come as a surprise to many, that many Bibles continue with “against such there is no law”, or similar. The Complete Jewish Bible translates this as “Nothing in the Torah stands against such things”. The Living Bible says “and here there is no conflict with Jewish laws.”  So I conclude that Paul is affirming that in following God’s instructions for righteous living (Torah), a person should also exhibit the same qualities which are in the person led by the Spirit. And why not, after all, the same Spirit was in the beginning!!

“If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” It’s about how we live isn’t it? You want to fulfil the law of Messiah Yeshua? Then ‘bear one another’s burdens’. Look after each other. Consider what you can DO to make another person feel loved and appreciated. It’s not about legalistic observance. It is good practical advice from Paul.

Now consider how this letter started. Paul was concerned that some who had commenced a life of faith in Yeshua were being drawn away into legalistic observances in some vain attempt to appease God. He chastised them for their gullibility and ‘foolishness’. And over the course of this letter he returns to his familiar theme. Your salvation is assured by your faith in Messiah Yeshua. The New Covenant is guaranteed by His shed blood. There is nothing you can physically do to earn that salvation. BUT, there is plenty for you to do to live righteously. It is a self-motivated decision as to how you choose to live your life. “Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” he said. It is not hypothetical, it’s practical.

We said at the beginning that ‘Galatians’ is often portrayed as a conflict between “law and grace”. It is nothing of the sort. It is a very practical discourse in how to live effectively AFTER one has availed oneself of God’s salvation gift. It is free. One can do nothing more to earn it. But one can follow the instructions God has given to order one’s life to be pleasing to Him, and to be fruitful within the “ekklesia” into which one is planted.

May God grant that you ‘bear much fruit’ as you study His word.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   25

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Galatians  3 : 1  to 4 : 31

Please read the introduction (No. 23) for background to this Epistle.

“O foolish Galations!” Paul hadn’t read ‘How to win friends and influence people” had he? Forthright. Unbending. Without doubt or apology. “Who has bewitched you?” You know the truth, ‘I couldn’t have presented it any clearer’, he is saying. So tell me this. I know you have received the Spirit of faith. So how did you receive that Spirit? Was it by religiously following the instructions of the Rabbi’s? Or was it by hearing my testimony of the change that God brought about in me? And then experienced it for yourself. You have seen the miracle of lives changed in those who, by faith, have trusted in Yeshua. Did you see that because you began to follow the religious practices of the Orthodox Jews? Or because you heard the testimony of the faith of others? And then believed yourself. So why are you so easily returning to fleshly attempts to gain the salvation that you already have?

Look at the Scriptures. God knew that Gentiles would become believers too, otherwise He would not have told Abraham that all the nations of the world would be blessed as a result of his faith. And they are. There are infinitely more Gentile believers in Yeshua in the world than there are Jewish. So the message Paul is conveying is that, through faith, even Gentiles have already become ‘sons of Abraham’. Partakers of the covenants, by faith. But what many of us today expect is to be partakers of the covenant blessings without concern for covenant responsibilities!

“Keeping the law (Torah) for salvation’s sake is impossible.” said Paul. If one could gain salvation by keeping Torah, God would not have had to send Yeshua into this world. The Torah is the “Book of the Covenant”. The people of Israel agreed to live by it. “All that the Lord has said we will do” they said. There is nothing wrong with Torah. The Psalmist tells us that “The Torah of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul”. But God gave mankind a free will. And mankind did not keep the Covenant he had made with God. (Note:- There is to be a New Covenant. One that cannot be broken. It is the same Torah. It is to be made with the same people as the first. It will not be taught. It will be written on hearts and put in minds by God Himself. And it is guaranteed by the blood of Yeshua. Unbreakable. Read its terms in Jeremiah 31 and Hebrews 8)

So that first Covenant was imperfect in that it was, and is, optional. But mankind also has freewill in relation to faith in Yeshua. It is only those who willingly, freely, exercise the option to accept the sacrifice of Yeshua who are saved. There is no other way! The promise to Abraham was not to “seeds” as in many, but to his “seed”, being the One who came to bear the sin of many. Namely Yeshua.

Paul reminded them, and us, that God’s promises to Abraham, which are irrevocable, relating to his “seed”, preceded the Torah instructions by 430 years, and the Torah does not supersede the promises made to Abraham. So what is the purpose of the Torah? It wasn’t for salvation. Paul describes it as a ‘tutor’ to bring us to Yeshua. It was a timely reminder of right and wrong in God’s sight, teaching us what God expects from those who are His. It still does. But when Yeshua came, he provided the perfect sacrificial Lamb, Who takes away the sin of the world. Once, for all time in the future. And we will see later, in Galations 5 how the Torah fits perfectly into the lifestyle expectation of those who are saved and experience a Spirit filled life.

Galations 4:8-11, with its reference to ‘observing days and months and years’ is mistakenly used by some to denigrate the keeping of Torah by those who are in Christ. Read it again. These words apply to the unsaved, “when you did not know God” Paul said. So they refer to pagan rituals. Paul continued “I am afraid for you, lest I have laboured in vain for you”. Did I waste my time? he is saying. Paul had worked hard and long to preach the truth to save them from paganism, in spite of his physical limitations, whatever they were. He agonised that they would consider abandoning that simple faith in Yeshua.

Paul moves to an analogy which is somewhat mysterious. That of the bond-woman and the free-woman. That mystery becomes clearer when one recognizes that Paul, in this analogy, sees the bond-woman as man’s attempt to use ‘works of Torah’ to obtain salvation, (helping God out of a problem as it were) which, in turn is analogous to the Pharisaic yoke of bondage. As opposed to the free-woman, who produced the Child of promise, through whom salvation is provided as the free gift of God to all who believe. “So then”, Paul exhorts the “ekklesia”, “we are not children of the bond-woman, but of the free.”  And just as Genesis 21 exhorts Abraham to ‘cast out the bondwoman’, so should they, Paul said, if they see her as a way of salvation. But that has nothing to do with abandoning Torah, God’s instruction for righteous living.             

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   24

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Galatians  1 : 1  to 2 : 21

Please read the introduction (No. 23) for background to this Epistle.

As a result of Paul’s first missionary journey there were a number of “ekklesia” formed in Galatia in Central Turkey. They operated as a sect of Judaism and worshipped in the local synagogues. Each “ekklesia” became a mixed congregation of Jew and Gentile, and the Gentile members of the “ekklesia” had not been required to submit to the Abrahamic covenant sign of circumcision because salvation by faith in Yeshua does not require it. But they were under attack!

The attack they were experiencing, was orchestrated by fellow members within the same synagogue who did not accept Yeshua as the Messiah of God! These strictly Orthodox Jews stuck rigidly to the Oral Torah and the detailed rabbinic interpretation of the Torah. They had sought to ‘protect’ the Torah, placing formidable ‘hedges’ around it, which exist to this very day. The ‘hedges’ (manmade rules) were such that they were described as a heavy yoke, a burden, even impossible to comply with. One of the key characteristics of compliance, of course, was the Abrahamic covenant sign of circumcision. And they were demanding that ALL male members of their synagogue comply.

Yeshua, our Redeemer, was the perfect, Torah observant, Jew! In fact, He is described as “the living Torah”. Paul, also a Torah observant Jew, had formerly been a fervent advocate of Rabbinic Judaism. He knew all about what it involved and he had been a persecutor of those who did not adhere to the strict rabbinic letter of the “law”. Many such practices were described by Yeshua as ‘the traditions of men’. So Paul was perfectly placed to see the issues. In fact, he was almost ‘tearing his hair out’ at seeing what was happening to Gentiles who had once come to genuine faith in Yeshua, but were now being told that they had to be circumcised in order to continue fellowshipping in the synagogue.

Paul was at pains to explain, in this letter, that his commission as an Apostle was not from men. He did not actually meet Peter and the other Apostles until three years after his ‘conversion’. As a young Rabbi he had risen in the ranks of Judaism above most of his contemporaries prior to his encounter with Yeshua. It was that encounter which caused his lifestyle change in taking up the ministry of spreading the gospel message of salvation, by faith, to Gentiles. It was an amazingly successful mission too. Two of his ministry companions were Barnabas, a Jew, and Titus, a Greek. He provides some detail of the first fourteen years of his training in Apostleship, before he ventured to Jerusalem to visit the other Apostles. He made that visit because ‘false brethren’ had secretly spied (and presumably reported) on him to the Jerusalem Council, concerning the liberty (from compulsory circumcision) of the salvation which they preached in the Gentile world. (we also conclude from reading Acts 21 that they also falsely reported that Paul was teaching against the Torah of Moses! And this is the precise point of misunderstanding of this Epistle to the Galatians which many of us are still taught in our churches today) Paul was not anti-Torah, he was anti-proselytising of Gentiles into Orthodox Judaism, and he explained that even Titus, a Gentile believer and fellow teacher, was not compelled to be circumcised (as were the Gentile believers in the “ekklesia” of Galatia.)

 So a division of responsibilities was recognised. Peter, the Apostle to Jews (the circumcised) and Paul the Apostle to Gentiles (the uncircumcised). But Paul had observed what he described as hypocrisy in the behaviour of other Jews, specifically Peter. It seems that Peter happily fellowshipped with Gentiles as equals in the faith (remember the story of his vision of ‘the sheet’ in Acts 10) when there were no other ‘important’ Jews around, but separated himself from his Gentile brothers in Christ when there were. Such was Peter’s fear of alienation from his Jewish friends. Now, if Peter were so concerned, just think of the pressure felt by these believers in the “ekklesia” in Galatia when faced, by friends in their synagogue who were the antagonistic Orthodox Jews. Paul understood this, but he quickly got to the real issue.  No-one is justified by the ‘works of the law (Torah)’. The Temple sacrificial system was instituted by God to allow a person to ‘draw near to Him’. No-one was ‘saved’ by just going through the motions of the ‘works of the law’.  For Abraham, it was his faith that counted for righteousness, and that faith was born of obedience. Trusting God. Religiously keeping Torah, as Paul did as an Orthodox Rabbi, didn’t ‘save’ him or anyone else. Rather, it is being ‘saved’ by faith in Yeshua, which calls one to obedience to the Torah (instructions for righteous living). That is living the way God intended His people to live.   “For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God” said Paul. It was understanding God’s purpose in providing Torah that caused Paul, by revelation, to turn his back on trying to ‘earn his salvation’ by the rigid legalism of the Pharisaic way . In its place he embraced Judaism as God intended, just like all the early believers, trusting Yeshua for his salvation, but continuing to obey God’s instructions.    

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      23

Hebraic understanding of the Apostolic letters

Galatians   ….  An Introduction

Possibly the most misunderstood of Paul’s letters. He had visited this region on his first missionary journey and initiated the formation of several “ekklesia” in the region. Written in the early to mid 50’s C.E. after he received a report that these “ekklesia” were being targeted, and influenced, by some orthodox ‘Judaiasers’. Galations is NOT a “grace” v “law” treatise, as is often taught, but rather a re-statement of the truth of unmerited salvation by faith alone, but within the framework of Messianic Judaism.

Because ‘Galations’ is so greatly misunderstood through centuries of anti-Israel (or perhaps anti-Torah) interpretation of the Apostolic Scriptures in church history, I have decided to take the unusual step of providing an additional introductory ‘reflection’ to this Epistle. If you believe what most of us were taught in our churches, that Paul was converted from Judaism to Christianity (as we know it today), this will be a bit of a shock to you. The way that the ‘conversion’ of Rabbi Sha’ul in Acts 9 is viewed is pivotal to my understanding. There is ample evidence, from Paul’s own lips, in the Book of the Acts of the Apostles to verify his lifestyle as a fervent believer in Yeshua, but remaining a Torah Observant Jew right up to Acts 28:17 near the time of his death in Rome.

All the early believers in the Messiahship of Yeshua were Jewish, and they worshipped in Synagogues. They kept the “mo’edim” (appointed times) of the Lord, and they remained fervently zealous in Torah Observance (Acts 21:20). They were soon increasingly joined by Gentile believers in the diaspora, who fellowshipped in the same Synagogues, which presented a huge challenge to Jewish Orthodoxy, because the Gentiles were accepted into their fellowship without undergoing a formal conversion to Judaism as a proselyte (evidenced by circumcision). And that is the very crux of the disputes which Paul addresses comprehensively in this letter to the Galations. But to correctly interpret this letter it is imperative that one understands the ‘conversion’ experienced by Rabbi Sha’ul on the road to Damascus. He described himself as a fervent persecutor of these Jewish believers (Messianic Jews) and it was precisely to this group that he was ‘converted’. Still a Jew, still a Rabbi, still Torah Observant, but now a Messianic Jew. However, if he was NOT, then Yeshua Himself condemns him in Matthew 5:19 as being ‘the least in the Kingdom of God’. But we know that he is a giant of our faith as believers. The Jerusalem Council, in Acts 21:24, described Paul as having an “orderly walk and keeper of the Torah”. And so he was.

There is some debate about when this letter was written. Was it before or after the deliberations of the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15. Tim Hegg, in his excellent book “The Letter Writer”, uses scholarly investigation of both Biblical and non-Biblical sources to conclude that it was written before the Jerusalem Council letter concerning Gentile believers. His main argument hinges on the fact that the Jerusalem Council letter would have cleared up some of those contentious elements which caused Paul to write this letter at all.

But even this “letter to the Gentiles” is misunderstood. Many today correctly point to the three conditions which were required of Gentile believers in order that they might share fellowship with Messianic Jews. They relate specifically to Idolatry, Dietary laws and Sexual Immorality. However, completely ignored is the very next verse in our Bibles which qualifies this limited list. “For Moses has had throughout many generations those who preach him in every city, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath.” The clear implication being that the rest of the Torah will be learned as they attended the regular weekly Shabbat gatherings of believers.

We will ‘reflect’ on the specifics as we study the text of Paul’s letter in coming weeks.

The major issue being faced by these Galatian “ekklesia” was the intrusion of Orthodox Jews who rejected the Messiahship of Yeshua, but had influence within the synagogues. They were insisting that Gentiles, who wished to fellowship with them should submit themselves to formal ‘conversion’ as proselytes, by circumcision and the full gammit of legalistic observances of the Oral Torah.

Paul would have none of it! And next week we begin our ‘reflections’ on the detail.

In paraphrase, to the churches of Galatia, Paul wrote: “I am an Apostle appointed by Yeshua Himself, and all the brethren who are with me send greetings in His name. He gave Himself, that we might be delivered from this present evil age and freely partake of His salvation. Let’s get that straight, because I am astounded that some of you are so readily turning away from that simple truth which I brought to you when I was with you.”

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections       22

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

2 Corinthians  11 : 1  to 13 : 14

Scholars have discerned that there were at least four letters written by Paul to the “ekklesia” in Corinth. 1 Corinthians, the second written, refers to a previous letter of which there is no longer a written record (1 Cor 5:9), and 2 Corinthians contains the next two. Chapters 1-9 probably the last written, and chapters 10-13 the third written. In 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his calling and character as an Apostle.

An amazing insight into the character of Paul as he writes so personally about himself, as of a parent concerned for his cherished children. He acknowledges his self-effacing imperfection, in speech and presentation, but remains fiercely protective of them. He uses the analogy of seeking, and introducing them to, the best possible marriage partner for his children. Presenting to them, and encouraging them, to accept the pure, simple, love of Yeshua. But, in love, warning them also to be mindful of the pitfalls and traps in life by which the innocent, the unwary, and the young may be seduced.

He shows concern for the fact that he placed no financial burden on the ‘ekklesia’ as he worked and taught among them, and wonders if that might be seen, because it was freely given, as having no value. I find myself considering (because there is no clue in the text itself) whether he might be comparing himself here with the ‘false apostles’ who DID charge for their service to them, hence appearing, in their falsity, to have some credibility. Such persons are still identifiable, even today. Paul’s description of such persons is quite graphic! “deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness”. The question for them, and for us, is how to recognize such falsity. The Torah provides a clear means of identification. Read Deuteronomy 13. Paul knew it well. The identifier is if the words of that ‘prophet’ have the result of taking one away from the word of God. Remember what the Psalmist told us? “For You have magnified Your word above all Your name.” (Psalm 138:2) His WORD is truth and God will not say, or cause you to do or be, anything which is contrary to His word. His word says that salvation is freely available through the blood of Yeshua. Remember Peter’s sermon in Acts 4, wherein, talking about the risen Yeshua he said “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."  Anyone who teaches differently is a ‘false prophet’.

There is something of a mystery about Paul’s ‘man’ who was caught up into the third heaven. Many commentators believe Paul speaks of his own experience. The possibilities are left to one’s imagination, but the essence of this experience being included here, if indeed it was Paul’s own, is that he mentions it without ‘boast’. We have probably heard of people today who speak of such an experience, and in great detail! Paul rather ‘boasts’ about his infirmity! Why? Because in his infirmity, his reliance is totally in God to accomplish the ministry tasks God had given to him. We do not even know the precise nature of his infirmity. Eyesight? Speech? Stature? That ‘thorn in the flesh’, Paul sees as a messenger of Satan, keeping him humble before God and men. Interestingly, whatever was Paul’s infirmity was approved by God! Not only that, but God also declined Paul’s request for healing from it!! Now there is food for thought. “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in (your) weakness.”

Paul evidently intended to visit this “ekklesia’ a third time. One of the clues to this being considered a separate letter (see introduction above) is that last week, we saw Paul encouraging them to take offerings for the other believers, which he or his emissary would collect. Here Paul says “I will not be burdensome to you; for I do not seek yours (that which you have), but you.” This statement has some very lovely parallels in our own relationship with Yeshua. He does not seek our commitment to Him for what He receives from us, but for what He imparts to us. Principally, I think, in the realm of a righteous, fulfilling, useful, productive life here on earth, and throughout eternity. What does the prophet Micah tell us about the Lord’s requirement of us? “To do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”

That was Paul’s message to this “ekklesia”, but he was fearful that in his absence, without his continual teaching, he would find something very different. Read his concerns in verses 20,21 of chapter 12. So he exhorts them, as we ourselves need to be reminded, “Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves.” Dear friends, this is not about what we SAY we believe, it is about how we live. Paul is quite forthright in stating that the evidence of faith is in how we live. His epistle was written because the reported evidence that their errant lifestyle didn’t match the rhetoric. And it should, both for them and for us.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      21

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

2 Corinthians  9 : 1  to 10 : 18

Scholars have discerned that there were at least four letters written by Paul to the “ekklesia” in Corinth. 1 Corinthians, the second written, refers to a previous letter of which there is no longer a written record (1 Cor 5:9), and 2 Corinthians contains the next two. Chapters 1-9 probably the last written, and chapters 10-13 the third written. In 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his calling and character as an Apostle.

Paul uses a little psychology here to encourage the “ekklesia’ in Corinth to become donors in the cause of support for other believers elsewhere. “it is superfluous for me to write to you; for I know your willingness, about which I boast of you to the Macedonians.” It is only in last week’s portion that we read of Paul ‘boasting’ about the Macedonians to the Corinthians! Paul seemed to be aware of the capacity of this ‘ekklesia’ at Corinth to share the financial burden of support for others. After all, we know that he had only recently spent three years living and working among them.

So Paul said he would send some brethren, ahead of his own proposed future visit, so that they could collect their ‘generous gift’. The psychology of Paul extends to the use of a well-known agricultural parable, one which is used extensively within the church today to extract ‘generous gifts’ from willing (and not so willing) donors. “He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” BUT, to his enormous credit, he follows that agricultural truism, with practical common sense. “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly, or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.” I confess, dear friends, to being irritated when I observe Paul’s encouraging parable used indiscriminately by modern day preachers with the implied intent that there is financial gain ahead for the giver according to the quantum of their gift. Our giving should be without such deceptive pressure.

Sadly, on TV every day, we see unscrupulous men, millionaires all, using Paul’s words to impoverish gullible, emotional, fragile, people for their own enrichment. Don’t be fooled by the emotive glib words. Ask the Lord what you should give, and to which cause. He is faithful to show you what is right for you. Paul continues “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having sufficiency in all things may have an abundance for every good work.”

Yes, it is good to financially support those in need, it is actually a command of God that we so do. Paul continues this theme to the end of Chapter 9 expanding on the benefits to the giver and the recipient, and brings it all to a climax with the verse that ends this chapter. “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.” That gift is, of course, salvation.

As Chapter 10 opens, we find a different topic. Abruptly, it seems, Paul has reverted to the subject of his time spent with them, compared to their reaction to his earlier letter, which was obviously received when he was not physically with them! Some commentators have concluded that this might even be part of a different letter (see the comment at the head of these ‘reflections’ in 2 Corinthians). So, one reading consecutively from chapter 9 into chapter 10 is challenged in trying to follow the narrative! It appears that Paul felt that his letters were more boldly stated than were his words spoken face to face. They have an advantage over us of course, because we have never been in Paul’s personal presence, so our judgement of him is taken solely from his writing. To most of us therefore, as to them, he is a spiritual giant.

We recall that initially, we discovered that his letters were written to this ‘ekklesia’ in order to address some significant, very serious, difficulty they had encountered in the fellowship of believers. Paul’s advice had caused some division. But he stood by his counsel to them. Now he tells them that although “we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.” The rules are different, because the enemy is not of the flesh. Paul’s keen sense of righteousness, in my view probably arising from his intimate knowledge of Torah, allowed him to discern the nature of the real enemy. Thus he writes that “the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds.”  This is a ‘right v wrong’, ‘good v evil’ battle. It is not a ‘difference of opinion’ thing. It is a ‘who will you serve’ situation.

Paul had met the risen Messiah. He had received his commission directly from the Saviour Himself, face to face. He was ideally prepared, as a Jewish Rabbi, with a profound knowledge of the Hebrew Scriptures, to understand the source of the divisions which assail every ‘ekklesia’. Satan is joined in battle for the hearts of men, then and now. Paul saw that battle raging in the ‘ekklesia’ in Corinth. It’s the same ongoing battle today. But that battle is the Lord’s. It takes place ‘in the heavenlies’. Our role is to put our trust in the Lord, by prayer and supplication. As did Paul.

Shabbat Shalom   

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      20

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

2 Corinthians  7 : 1  to 8 : 24

Scholars have discerned that there were at least four letters written by Paul to the “ekklesia” in Corinth. 1 Corinthians, the second written, refers to a previous letter of which there is no longer a written record (1 Cor 5:9), and 2 Corinthians contains the next two. Chapters 1-9 probably the last written, and chapters 10-13 the third written. In 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his calling and character as an Apostle.

“Therefore,” begins our portion this week. A word demanding careful consideration of what has preceded it. And for that, again, as last week, we need to look at the previous chapter.

As believers, Paul had assured the ‘ekklesia’ in Corinth that they had become the ‘Temple’ of the living God. (Ch 6:16). For that reason, verse 17 tells them to ‘separate themselves’ from things unclean. Now it is a whole new study to consider that statement, but trust me when I tell you that the Torah of Moses is explicit about what is unclean. It is matter of regret that many of us have been taught that because the Torah is what our Bible translates (incorrectly) as “law” (more correctly, ‘instruction’) we have been taught that “law” is obsolete for the Christian because it has been replaced by ‘grace’. But evidently that is NOT what Paul taught this ‘ekklesia’ in Corinth. And there is much more, because of the promises contained in Chapter 6: 16-18, following our introductory word “Therefore”, Paul specifies the action required of them.

This is written to a community of believers. They are already ‘saved’ so it is not a pre-condition of, but a consequence of, that salvation! “Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” Are you saying that we have to DO something about our salvation? I hear some ask. No, I am not saying, our beloved Apostle Paul is saying that. And I agree with him. He writes of cleanliness of the flesh and spirit. Life ‘in the Spirit’ is a life of self-control as well as a life of freedom. It is a life of responsibility as well as a life of privilege. The Psalmist got it right didn’t he? Paul knew the Psalms well.

“How can a young man cleanse his way?” he asked in Psalm 119: 9-11. “By taking heed according to Your word. With my whole heart I have sought You; O let me not wander from Your commandments. Your word have I hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” It is well that we notice the part that David played in his commitment to ‘cleansing his heart’. It was the same for the ‘ekklesia’ in Corinth, and it is the same for any who read this ‘reflection’. It cannot be done by anyone else on your behalf. It’s personal. And it involves effort.

Paul knew that his first letter, dealing with sexual immorality among them had caused some disquiet. He was sorry that they were sorrowful, but not for long! “For Godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted, but the sorrow of the world produces death.” he writes. His forthright advice to them then, was consistent with the tenor of the first part of our ‘reflection’ today. His concern was to know that the lessons had been learned, and that they now understood that his counsel was in love for them, that their spiritual walk would be worthy of their calling as ‘Ambassadors for Christ’. That advice is timely for each generation of the ‘ekklesia’, even today, or perhaps especially today.  As an encouragement, Paul cites the example of the grace which God, in His infinite love for them, had bestowed on the ‘ekklesia’ in Macedonia. This was a province in what we know today as Northern Greece. The main ‘ekklesia’ there were at Philippi, Thessalonica and Berea. They were not wealthy, in fact they were downright poor, but they were diligent in their generous support of the ‘saints’ at Jerusalem. They saw themselves as part of the “ekklesia’ of the Lord worldwide, as well as in their local area. For this Paul commends them as an example of how believers should operate.

I am drawn again to Paul’s use of the words ‘rich’ and ‘poor’ in relation to their calling in Christ. The ‘prosperity’ about which Paul writes is a far cry from that taught in many of our mega-churches today. He commends the ‘rich’ Yeshua, who for our sakes became ‘poor’. The richness of Yeshua was in His relationship with the Father. A relationship He willing forsook in order to allow us to gain our relational richness with Father God. However, Paul also includes the exemplary role of the ‘ekklesia’ in Macedonia to share their worldly substance, by gifting, with others in need. He is careful not to imply that they should be impoverished and burdened in their giving so that others benefit disproportionally. His suggestion is that they put aside such as they can over a period of time, bit by bit, so that when one of the teaching group (Titus is mentioned specifically) visit them, their gift may be collected and distributed to those in need in other ‘ekklesia’.

The comparison with the ‘ekklesia’ in Macedonia is the yardstick by which Paul encourages the Corinthians to look. It may well provide an example for us to consider as we think of ways we might ‘bless Israel’ today through the many Christian organisations which offer material support to those in need there.       

Shabbat Shalom  

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections       19

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

2 Corinthians  5 : 1  to 6 : 18

Scholars have discerned that there were at least four letters written by Paul to the “ekklesia” in Corinth. 1 Corinthinans, the second written, refers to a previous letter of which there is no longer a written record (1 Cor 5:9), and 2 Corinthians contains the next two. Chapters 1-9 probably the last written, and chapters 10-13 the third written. In 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his calling and character as an Apostle.

Because these ‘reflections’ are arbitrarily taken by chapters of Scripture, it is sometimes difficult to make sense of the strict chapter narrative. We remind ourselves that Paul did not write in chapters and verses, they were provided by Robert Estienne, (a French printer) about 1520, for the Apostolic Scriptures. So we need to re-read the end of chapter 4 to get the sense of Paul’s message here. Specifically “For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”  Now we can understand the words with which chapter 5 begins, as Paul is contrasting our earthly (temporary) home with the heavenly (eternal) home to which all believers aspire.

It is well understood that a believer “walks by faith, not by sight”. And many preachers emphasize this to illustrate that our salvation is NOT by works. Most of us believe that. But is that the end of the story? Well some teach that “the Spirit led life” is almost a ‘do as you like’ lifestyle, because God is a loving, forgiving, gracious God. Which He is. But Paul does not say that in this passage. He says “we make it our aim, whether present (in this life) or absent (in heaven) to be well pleasing to Him.” That is a direct reference, dear friends, to the way we live our lives. It’s a doing thing. It was the burden of Paul’s writing to this “ekklesia” in Corinth. Their works, how they live their lives, is important. For those who may have doubt, refer to the Great White Throne judgement of Revelation 20. Everyone who ever lived (all of us) have an appointment there. And what are we judged on? Our faith? No. Our church attendance? No. Our tithing? No. We are judged according to our works! (which may include all of the above) And those who do not have their names written in the Book of Life will be cast into the Lake of Fire. I think Paul is spelling it out very clearly in this passage. It was a timely warning for the “ekklesia” in Corinth, and it’s a timely warning for anyone reading this ‘reflection’.

Now here is the blessed hope for the believer. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new.” This is the right time to do a personal audit. We who claim to be “in Christ” should be able to see the difference between the ‘old man’ and this ‘new creation’. Check yourself out, you are the one best qualified to do that. Dare I repeat myself? The best guide to change is difference in behaviour! Attitude! Things you do! Things you say! Actions! Works! Why are these things so important? Because, Paul says, we have become “Ambassadors for Christ.”  Others will judge us in that light.

Please read carefully the first ten verses of Chapter 6. Ponder them at length. Measure yourself against them. It is the prosperity gospel according to Paul! It spells out the rewards of being an “Ambassador for Christ”. He writes about ‘making many rich’, and about ‘having nothing, and yet possessing all things’. This is the prosperity gospel friends. Having ones name written in the “Lamb’s Book of Life”. Eternal life in Him.  “O Corinthians!” he writes, “We have spoken openly to you, our heart is wide open.” In paraphrase, Paul is saying ‘we have spoken the truth, in love, warts and all. Nothing hidden. And there is a bit more to come!’ We recall that Paul had written to deal with ‘issues’ within the ‘ekklesia’. Now he lays it on the line. Not only is their behaviour critical to their role as “Ambassadors for Christ”, but so is the company they keep. “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers.” How up to date is that? It is probably the most violated of all the injunctions contained in Scripture. And we have become most inventive in our reasoning for ignoring such an injunction.

Today it is most applied in reference to marriage. And it is relevant. But Paul goes way beyond that singular application. “What communion has light with darkness?” he asks. Events in which we participate in order to be ‘sociable’, even ‘friendly’ which may be alright and proper because we are called to live in this world, but paradoxically not to be ‘part of it’. Where is the line drawn? This is where God, in His infinite love, mercy and grace to us who are believers (that new creation) has given His Holy Spirit prompted discernment. If we include Him in our participation in the events we attend, we will have no difficulty in knowing the difference between the ‘light’ and the ‘darkness’ of which Paul writes. “Come out from among them and be separate says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.”  Plenty to think about this week eh!     

Shabbat Shalom 

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      18

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

2 Corinthians  3 : 1  to 4 : 18

Scholars have discerned that there were at least four letters written by Paul to the “ekklesia” in Corinth. 1 Corinthians, the second written, refers to a previous letter of which there is no longer a written record (1 Cor 5:9), and 2 Corinthians contains the next two. Chapters 1-9 probably the last written, and chapters 10-13 the third written. In 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his calling and character as an Apostle.

“You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men.” says Paul to the “ekklesia” in Corinth. What you are is what you declare! And that is a lesson that we all should learn. Those we come into contact with are much more influenced by our actions than by our words. Words are easy, how we live is the hard bit! But it shows the truth.

Then Paul appears to invite comparison between the “Old” and “New” covenants. “… not of the letter, but of the Spirit: for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”  And that is how most people would interpret Paul here. BUT, as David Stern points out in his “Jewish New Testament Commentary”, care should be taken not to confuse “the letter” as referring to the “Torah” (God’s instruction for righteous living). Both Old and New Testaments include “Torah” don’t they? At least that’s what the Bible says. The difference is in the method of transmittal. “The letter” is written on tablets of stone. Those words have been subject to much abuse by well-meaning interpreters throughout the ages … and they still are. The ‘hedges’ which the Rabbis have constructed around Torah have had the effect of making it a very heavy yoke. In Jeremiah 31 we are told that it was the covenant promise to keep Torah which their forefathers broke. In contrast, the New Covenant is unbreakable. Why? Because it will be written on the heart of man and put in his mind. By whom? By God Himself, guarantied by the blood of Yeshua, and activated and lived in the power of the Holy Spirit. It is THIS covenant of which Paul claims to be a minister. It is ‘life-giving’ because it cannot be manipulated by men.

David describes the “Torah” as “perfect, converting the soul.” Nehemiah says that God gave the Israelites “just ordinances and true laws, good statutes and commandments.” Paul himself, writing to the Romans says “Therefore the Torah is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good.” (Psalm 19:7, Nehemiah 9:13 and Romans 7:12) Or read Psalm 119. How much clearer can the Scriptures be regarding the “Torah”?

Paul looks forward to the day when, that which is undoubtedly to ‘pass away’, the much broken “letter” with its capacity for manipulation, is replaced by the New Covenant. We know even today, that God’s chosen ones have a ‘veil’ which prevents them from seeing Yeshua in their reading of the Hebrew Scriptures, in spite of the many places where those Scriptures clearly look forward to His coming. And He did come! That veil is miraculously lifted from those who become believers in Him. “It is the Lord who is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” Liberty to see Him and to worship Him as He desires of them.

To the “ekklesia” in Corinth, Paul then re-affirms his ministry. “We have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully.” There were evidently people in his day, as there are indeed today, who handle the word of God deceitfully. Shame. There are many whose eyes were, and still are, blinded by the god of this age. Dear friends, check out the substance of what you hear preached in your own “ekklesia” week by week. If it does not accord with the word of God, exercise your responsibility to say so. Ezekiel 3 and 33 contain warnings which apply onerous charges against those of us who do not. Paul would have been very quick to speak up! He said “For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Yeshua Ha’mashiach. We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God, and not of us.”

There is a tranquillity about Paul. His words, in English, seem to me quite complicated, but his message is steadfast. He knows what he believes, and he knows Whom he believes. That he suffered deprivation for the sake of the gospel is abundantly clear. The “prosperity” gospel, for him, was not of this age. It was his transient sojourn on this earth, to which he was assigned a special ministry that kept him faithful to his calling. The ‘prize’, the goal towards which he fearlessly looked day by day, was to be presented, by Yeshua, His Lord, before the Father as a good and faithful servant of the King.

O that we all, could learn from this man’s example in our daily living. “looking not at the things which are seen (which are temporary), but at the things which are not seen (which are eternal).” That is Paul’s burden for the “ekklesia” in Corinth, and it is his burden for your local “ekklesia” here on this earth.        

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      17

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

2 Corinthians  1 : 1  to 2 : 17

Scholars have discerned that there were at least four letters written by Paul to the “ekklesia” in Corinth. 1 Corinthians, the second written, refers to a previous letter of which there is no longer a written record (1 Cor 5:9), and 2 Corinthians contains the next two. Chapters 1-9 probably the last written, and chapters 10-13 the third written. In 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his calling and character as an Apostle.

Paul had sent Titus to Corinth to encourage the “ekklesia” to remain steadfast to the teachings of Paul in the face of various false teachers who had sought to discredit Paul’s authority and qualification as an Apostle. Titus obviously had a measure of success, but there still remained some mal-contents there.

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”  

This is personal. Paul himself is comforted by God in the report which Titus had brought him. It’s called peace of mind. The “ekklesia” is comforted by God in the knowledge that they are ‘on the right track’ with Paul’s teaching. They experience that same peace of mind. And out of that ‘comforting’ experience, others who may fall into trouble in future may be comforted, and have peace of mind, by those who have already known God’s comforting peace of mind.

But, for Paul, there is much more. He writes confidently of the comfort, in the “delivery from death” that he and Timothy had so recently experienced as they ministered in “Asia”. I never cease to be amazed at the naivety, and even the carelessness, of those who teach a “prosperity” gospel. Read Paul’s “prosperity gospel” experience which he writes about in 2 Corinthians 11 from verse 23.  The very “prosperity” that Paul experienced was the faithfulness of God who delivered him, and kept him alive, through many adverse circumstances. And this is what Paul promises the “ekklesia” in Corinth. Not worldly prosperity, with accompanying health, wealth and happiness, all problems solved, no issues of the day. But rather, by faith, having assured knowledge that their sins are forgiven, their names written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. There is no greater reward than that, in this life or the next, as they commit themselves to service in His name.

But in spite of Paul’s declaration of encouragement, he then said that he had decided not to visit them again because it would make him sorrowful! There were those among them who were already sorrowful at the directness in the message he had brought to them. They did not like the criticism and correction which Paul preached to them. None of us do! But the Holy Spirit of God is able to use such preaching for our benefit. If the message of the gospel is not challenging, bringing change and improvement, it has no value to the hearer does it? So Paul is constrained to let his message rest, and allow the Holy Spirit to convict and comfort as needed in that “ekklesia”. He did not want to repeat himself.

So Paul uses somewhat complicated language, certainly when translated into English, to explain himself. There appear to be two possible situations. Firstly that due to the ‘correction’ he had brought, there had been some evidence of penitence on the part of at least one person, but not everyone in the “ekklesia” was willing to receive such back into fellowship. Another possible interpretation of the same event would have it that there had been no evident penitence, but that some were ready to receive the person back into fellowship anyway, and others not. My perception is that either way, Paul was not anxious to involve himself further in such a matter, since he had already made himself clear in his original teaching and advice. Then Paul changed tack and drew on a most interesting analogy. By relating to the common Roman practice of a march of Triumph in honour of victors in battle. Along the route would be censors of burning incense, causing a sweet smelling aroma to pervade the area. Paul refered to the believer as such a victor, honoured by God as triumphing in Christ, allowing His fragrance to pervade the scene. But there is one difference. The same fragrance brought an aroma of death to those who are perishing (the unsaved) and an aroma of life to those being saved. There is but ONE message. It is the message Paul brought to the “ekklesia” in Corinth. To some he became the aroma of life, and to others the aroma of death.

“We are not” he says, “as so many, peddling the Word of God; but as of sincerity, but as of God, we speak in the sight of God in Christ.”  Friends, there are plenty of “peddlers of the word” today, it is not difficult to know who they are by their actions, by their motives, by the way they live. Steer clear of such. They preach an “easy” gospel, but its end is destruction. Paul spoke only as the Holy Spirit directed him, but as our reading today illustrates, it certainly did not make him popular. But it was truth.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      16

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

1 Corinthians  15 : 1  to 16 : 24

Paul first visited Corinth on his second missionary journey, in about 52 C.E., and stayed there for 18 months. The letters to the “ekklesia” in Corinth were most likely written from Ephesus about 5 years later. They are pastoral in nature.

There was some disputation in the “ekklesia” regarding the resurrection of the dead. So Paul returns to his Apostleship credentials, a defining feature of which was the fact that ALL the original Apostles had met the risen Messiah. But first he affirms that the gospel which he preached to them is the plain message that a) Messiah Yeshua lived on this earth, b) He died in redemption of man’s sin, c) He was buried in the grave, and d) by reference to Psalm 16: 10, He rose from the dead, (after three days), in perfect accord with the “sign” of His Messiahship which He gave to the Pharisees. He then listed the different times that all the Apostles met with the risen Yeshua. How comprehensive a picture is that?  Then in humility for his actions prior to his conversion, he describes himself as ‘the least of the Apostles’, but an Apostle never-the-less because he too had met the risen Messiah.  How different our view of him. He is a spiritual giant in our eyes. And for good reason.

Having said that, I find myself in significant agreement with the Apostle Peter, who, commenting on Paul’s writing, said “in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction”. (2 Peter 3:16). In truth, if you fail to grasp the fact that Paul remained a Torah observant Jew ALL his life, that his conversion was NOT from Judaism to Christianity (as most Christians are taught) but from Pharisaic Judaism (legalistic observance of Torah) to Messianic Judaism (a Torah observant believer in Yeshua as Messiah), you too will have problems trying to understand his teaching!

So, in relation to resurrection of the dead, Paul argues that if there is no resurrection, as some of them seemed to believe, then all preaching is in vain, because the fundamental nature of the deity of Yeshua, our Messiah, is that He conquered death and lives today seated at the right hand of the Father in heaven. Nothing has changed. It is the same message today. We serve and worship a RISEN Saviour. Hallelujah! It is not possible to improve on the very explanation Paul gives us in Chapter 15 : 12-26. Read it again.

But there is more! Paul writes about the time when death will give up ALL its dead. “For the trumpet will sound and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall all be changed”. Here Paul refers to the “dead in Christ”, those to whom his letter to this “ekklesia’ is addressed. Now we need to be careful here, because the Scriptures teach that there are TWO deaths! The first death is the experience of all who have lived (with the notable exceptions of Enoch and Elijah). Then the first resurrection is also an experience which all will encounter. But what follows that is “the Great White Throne judgement” of Revelation 20 which in turn is followed by eternal life for those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, and the second death for the remainder. That Death, and Hades, are destined, with Satan, the false Prophet and ‘the Beast’ (Antichrist) to spend eternity in the Lake of Fire.

But Paul ends that warning with a joyful hope. “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.”  And there dear friends is the message which we should take from this ‘reflection’.

Paul concludes this letter with the immensely practical exhortation to the diaspora “ekklesia” to remember their obligation to support the ‘original messengers’ of the gospel. The “saints” in Jerusalem. At the beginning of their fellowship, the very first “ekklesia” shared their substance and ‘held all things in common’. As time passed, they became persecuted and were held in contempt by the majority, and evidently fell on hard times. Paul was not shy in asking the believers in the diaspora to support them financially.

His request was that ‘on the first day of the week’, as regular practice, they set aside such as they chose to give, for the ‘saints in Jerusalem’. A Hebraic understanding of this practice indicates that they were not to give that money on the Sabbath as they met for worship, but after the Sabbath, as they met for Shabbat Havdalah (Saturday evening for us), they shared a fellowship meal (as is done to this very day in observant Jewish homes) and there added to the gift which would be transported, in due course to the Council in Jerusalem for distribution to those in need. Paul himself was the carrier of such gifts.

This letter contains ‘pastoral’ teaching which is relevant for our “ekklesia” today. But it is important to understand the practical Hebraic nature of that teaching so that we get the right message, devoid of any spiritualized analogy.    

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      15

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

1 Corinthians  13 : 1  to 14 : 40

Paul first visited Corinth on his second missionary journey, in about 52 C.E., and stayed there for 18 months. The letters to the “ekklesia” in Corinth were most likely written from Ephesus about 5 years later. They are pastoral in nature.

The LOVE chapter! Weddings, engagements, funerals, and sundry other emotional gatherings have all been graced by reference to, or reading of, this most amazing passage of Scripture. BUT, it has little to do with any of them! The English language is deficient in ‘single word’ translations of many foreign language words, particularly Greek, which has four words (phileo, agape, storge and eros) with different emphasis of meaning, but each of which is translated as either “love” or “charity” in English. In our reading this week, the Greek word used for LOVE is “agape”. It is a selfless unconditional love, expecting nothing in return.

Last week we ‘reflected’ upon spiritual gifts in the “ekklesia” in Corinth. Paul’s concern was to get each member to appreciate, without envy, the variety of spiritual gifts evident in others, which he said were of equal value in the corporate life and wellbeing of the whole assembly of believers. Chapter 12 ended with the declaration “And yet I show you a more excellent way”. He immediately launched into a description of the various gifts and qualified their value to the “ekklesia” by highlighting the importance of the motive and intent of the one exercising the gift. The God given ministry gifts are to be exercised with “agape”. This is the “more excellent way” to which Paul referred. And dare I add, “agape” which is expressed with humility for the fact that God Himself had chosen to distribute those gifts according to His own knowledge of the recipient.

Without “agape”, Paul said, we are just ‘pushing our own agenda’. The ‘gifts’ sound like ‘a clanging cymbal’. No tune, no harmony, no effect. Nothing. A waste of time and effort for everyone. But with “agape”, well, Paul put it much better than I ever could. Read Chapter 13, verses 4 to 13 again.  Selah!

So having spelled out the manner in which all spiritual gifts are to be exercised, Paul then encouraged the members of the “ekklesia” to seek and desire spiritual gifts, so that with “agape”, one might bless and edify and support the whole “ekklesia”. The gift which Paul singles out as being of greatest benefit to the “ekklesia” is the prophetic gift. Last week we quoted David Stern’s description of this gift as “speaking on behalf of God Himself”. For that reason, one has to be super careful to ensure that one is closely attuned to God, to hear correctly, to convey the message without embellishment, and even to wait, then wait some more, asking God to confirm beyond doubt that what one speaks in prophecy IS actually a word from God. There are very severe consequences for those who speak to the “ekklesia” presumptuously, that is, saying ‘thus says the Lord’ when the Lord has said no such thing.  (Please friend, trust me on this, there are MANY false prophets alive and well strutting their own agenda within the organisation of our modern day churches. They WILL get their reward. We are told to test the prophets (1 John 4:1)).

There is significant dispute in the ‘church’ of today about the gift of tongues. It is quite unproductive to enter into that controversy, because those who do are usually well entrenched in their own views on this subject, and each side is most resistive to change! What we can say is that Paul had no such reservation. And using David Stern’s description of tongues being “a language not learned” covers both sides with equanimity. Paul clearly said that as a “gift” from God, it was used as a witness to unbelievers. Clearly, an unbelieving visitor from Mongolia, hearing a word spoken in his own language by an American in America would be a powerful witness. But Americans in the same audience would be mystified, unless there was someone present who could interpret that word to them. But a prophetic word to the same audience would produce an exactly opposite reaction. Enlightenment for the American and mystery to the unbelieving visitor. Additionally, persons speaking in “glossolalia”, an undefined utterance, also speak mystery to both believer and unbeliever alike when there is no-one present to interpret that which is spoken.

Paul also defines a simple form of expression which edifies the “ekklesia”. “Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.” There are still some assemblies that practise this. I write from personal experience. But for the most part it is a blessing regrettably forsaken by the church of today. So the God given gifts of prophecy, teaching, and tongues which are present in every “ekklesia”, have no room for expression due to our strict ‘order of service’ routines when we meet.

“Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak in tongues. Let all things be done decently and in order.”          

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      14

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

1 Corinthians  11 : 1  to 12 : 31

Paul first visited Corinth on his second missionary journey, in about 52 C.E., and stayed there for 18 months. The letters to the “ekklesia” in Corinth were most likely written from Ephesus about 5 years later. They are pastoral in nature.

“Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ”. How clear is that? Yeshua, during His earthly sojourn was extremely careful to keep Torah. He was the perfect Lamb of God. Paul was far from perfect, by his own admission, and yet he “imitated Christ”. He did everything he could to walk uprightly before God and before men. He kept Torah.  As should we! In fact Paul immediately commends the “ekklesia” in Corinth for “keeping the traditions just as I delivered them to you”. You won’t hear that preached in any church today. But we are looking at what the Scriptures actually say here, not what has been taught by others.

The hierarchy within a home where Yeshua is worshipped as Lord is the next subject. For all sorts of reasons, few homes actually formally observe Paul’s teaching here. Even worse, where it is observed, men tend to use this teaching as excuse to become dictators in that environment, rather than to be the “priest” as mediator for his family, in love. The wearing of head covering is still meticulously observed in Orthodox Jewish homes as a symbol of spiritual covering which the woman enjoys from her husband. Other cultures also observe this custom, but for differing reasons.

Then Paul delivers the ‘punch line’!! In paraphrase he says “that’s how things should be, but it is not. You’ve got problems which need to be addressed. You’ve set up preferential factions in your “ekklesia”. You are using the celebration of “communion” as an excuse for a party where those of preference are gorging themselves and getting drunk. That is NOT what I taught you.” Then he goes through the ordinance which was instituted during the last Passover Seder Yeshua shared with His disciples on earth. As I ‘reflect’ on this, it is clear to me (but less so to others) that Passover is an annual remembrance of the salvation of the Israelites from bondage in Egypt. In His instruction to them at that table, Yeshua said that the wine represented His blood which He was about to shed on Calvary’s cross for the salvation of many. That blood was the symbol, and guarantee, of the New Covenant which is yet to be made with the House of Israel and the House of Judah. It remains an annual celebration for Jews, but we Gentiles have interpreted “as often as you drink it” to mean “drink it as often as you choose” rather than the continuation of the annual “mo’ed” of Passover in which the emphasis is extended from just the salvation from Egypt, to also include the remembrance of His sacrificial death. In any event, it is imperative that all who participate in that remembrance do so in the right attitude. It was never intended to be ‘the party’ which the “ekklesia” in Corinth made it to be.

Then Paul addresses the subject of “spiritual gifts”. Right up front Paul declares that there are a variety of “gifts” manifest in the “ekklesia”. It is an inclusive statement. It is applicable to any “ekklesia” meeting together to worship and honour God. But ALL these gifts are exercised, in God’s name, by the power of the same Holy Spirit of God. The variety of gifts which may be present in a specific “ekklesia” are given, by the Holy Spirit, for the benefit of the whole assembly. Paul is careful not to assign merit to one gift over another. He likens this distribution of gifts as typical of a human body. The different parts, limbs, organs etc. function in ways very different from each other, but ALL for the wellbeing of the whole. There is no jealousy between the various body parts on account of function. It should be the same within a multi-gifted “ekklesia”.

Then in some degree of contrast, Paul provides a list of “appointments”, we know them as “ministries”, which are present within the “ekklesia”. David Stern, in his excellent commentary on “The Jewish New Testament” (page 480) has expanded these “ministries” to show their function. I quote. 1. Apostles (emissaries) proclaimants of the gospel to form new “ekklesia”. 2. Prophets, those chosen to speak for God in an “ekklesia”.  3. Teachers, charged with the task of deepening the believer’s knowledge of God’s truth.  4. Workers of miracles.  5. Those with healing gifts. 6. Helpers.  7. Administrators. 8. Those who speak in languages which they have not learned.  I do not believe this list to be exhaustive. There are gifts (which Paul mentions in other Epistles) which have significant benefit to the “ekklesia”, such as Pastoral gifts. However, even though Paul takes care to have each gift, and the person exercising it, viewed with equal standing, he then counsels the whole assembly to “earnestly desire the best gifts”, which he later identifies as “prophecy” (speaking for God).

BUT, dear friend, before one launches out in “prophecy”, one would be well advised to read carefully Deuteronomy 13 and Ezekiel 13 : 4-16. There are significant penalties awaiting the person who misleads the “ekklesia” with words, attributed to God, which He did not authorize. Be extremely careful in this area of ministry.     

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      13

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

1 Corinthians  9 : 1  to 10 : 33

Paul first visited Corinth on his second missionary journey, in about 52 C.E., and stayed there for 18 months. The letters to the “ekklesia” in Corinth were most likely written from Ephesus about 5 years later. They are pastoral in nature.

Paul now establishes his credentials as an Apostle chosen by the Lord. It is a fact that everyone we know as an Apostle, in the Scriptures, had seen the risen Yeshua face to face. They all lived as men of great faith for sure, but it was faith strengthened in the knowledge that the Yeshua with whom they had spent three years, learning, observing, following and ministering, was now ascended into heaven, and that He had told them that He would return to the same spot, on the Mount of Olives outside Jerusalem from where they had witnessed His departure into the clouds. Paul’s encounter was different, in that he was met by Yeshua in exceptional circumstances, whilst on his way to persecute believers. That story is well known (Acts 9). But it was still a face to face encounter. So that would appear to be the Biblical qualification of an Apostle. Their mission was to build the foundation of the “ekklesia”, of which Yeshua was the chief cornerstone.

The “ekklesia” in Corinth was of special significance to Paul in that he saw them as ‘the seal of my apostleship in the Lord’. Their very existence authenticated his apostleship. But he wanted to emphasize the fact that, even though he might be entitled to ‘a living’ whist he was with them, he was careful not to be seen, in any way, to be profiting from his teaching and counsel to them. Paul was truly living a life of faith, trusting God to make provision for him. (a bit different today when MOST teachers of the Scriptures expect to be paid and to earn a living from their teaching gift, (which has Scriptural merit), but not exactly founded in trust in God for His provision, as Paul did). Paul says his reward was seeing them come to faith in Messiah Yeshua.

Then Paul puts on a “chameleon like” presence. Almost deceptive in expression, in that he declares himself to be changeable depending on the company he keeps! But that is NOT what Paul is actually saying, even though his words appear quite ‘clumsy’ in English. There is an interaction on the Greek “upo nomos” (‘under the law’). To the extent that “nomos” is a Greek interpretation of the Hebrew word “Torah”, he is talking about Jews. But adding the Greek word “upo” ‘under’, changes the sense into a legalistic type observance, wherein “upo” signifies the heavy yoke with which Paul was all too familiar  … “Pharisaic Judaism”, with its protective ‘fences’ making Torah observance burdensome. In contrast, his use of the descriptive “those who are without law”, refers to Gentiles. They do not have the same ‘burden’, but the message is the same to both groups. It involves a move to be “under law towards Messiah Yeshua”. He became the living Torah, and that is what He taught during His sojourn here on earth. We are to be like Him.

The continuing theme of avoiding food offered to idols is pursued in chapter 10. Paul is unequivocal about that. However attractive some things may appear to us, he says “No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above that which you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” However, as he continues, telling them to “Eat whatever is sold in the meat market”, some have incorrectly concluded that Paul was here championing the end of the Torah dietary instructions. But NO, bearing in mind that Paul, in this pastoral letter is addressing leaders of the “ekklesia”, a Messianic assembly of worshipping people, there is no way Paul would do that. It would be counter to all that Yeshua taught about righteous living wouldn’t it? Is Paul here holding his hand up to be “least in the Kingdom of Heaven”? (Matthew 5:19) I am SURE he is not.

His advice to them is, when invited to dinner by an unbelieving friend, to eat what is put before them UNLESS the host openly declares that food to have been offered to idols. Then, refusal to partake of that food will become a clear point of witness to that unbelieving friend of the change which has taken place in the life of the believing guest.

As an extension of this, Paul is advising the “ekklesia” to avoid giving offence to anyone. Live peaceably with your neighbour. Your words and your conduct WILL BE a witness to them. The question which always arises of course is whether that witness is for good. He might have also added here: -

“Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good WORKS, and glorify your Father in Heaven”.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      12

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

1 Corinthians  7 : 1  to 8 : 13

Paul first visited Corinth on his second missionary journey, in about 52 C.E., and stayed there for 18 months. The letters to the “ekklesia” in Corinth were most likely written from Ephesus about 5 years later. They are pastoral in nature.

Evidently, the leaders in the “ekklesia” had written to Paul with some pertinent questions. In response, Paul clearly exhibited the Judaism which many are taught today that he abandoned when he met Yeshua on the road to Damascus. He didn’t! Come to terms with that fact, and you will begin to understand Paul’s writings. Otherwise much of his writing seem to be contradictary to the words of Yeshua. But they are not!

“It is good for a man not to touch a woman.”  This is another one of the ‘hedges’ the Rabbinate put around the Torah! And it has merit. Just as Yeshua taught that murder begins with anger, and adultery begins with a lustful look (see Matthew 5 for the full teaching), so Paul is teaching that just to touch a woman who is not ones wife is the first step to a closer, unlawful, relationship. This is precisely what is practised today in Orthodox Judaism. It is a matter which is ‘laughed to scorn’ by some in our broader society today. But Paul was concerned to teach truth about sanctity in marriage. About faithfulness in marriage. About permanence of marriage. And about the quite limited reasons for divorce when one of the marriage partners becomes a believer whilst the other does not. The onus is on the believing partner to uphold marriage sanctity unless and until the unbelieving one voluntarily departs from the marriage. Paul would later write, in his second letter (chapter 6) to this “ekklesia” that believers should not be “unequally yoked with unbelievers”, which is an additional extension of Paul’s conviction about the sanctity of marriage.

There are many appealing modern day arguments put against Paul’s teaching here, but most people reading this will know that Paul was led by the Holy Spirit in his teaching. And one thing is very sure. Conditions and circumstances may be quite variable, but human nature was the same then as it is today. Should we not say then, as the Israelites of old once said? “All that the Lord has said we will do, and be obedient”.   Selah.   And thereby we see the extent to which the Hebraic message is ignored in our society today, and quite significantly so in the “ekklesia”.

Now Paul moves into uncharted territory for him. Whether a person should marry or not. Specifically he is answering a question about young women in the “ekklesia”. He declared that he has no commandment from the Lord on this issue, but he has an opinion! “What was your situation when you were called into service of the Lord?” He asks. Then in an expansive and verbose response, he opines that married women are, of necessity, taken up with the affairs of the home, whilst the unmarried are not, and therefore free to give more time to the Lord’s service. Paul himself was unmarried. For him it was a happy state in that his service for the Lord was unhindered by domestic responsibility. He considered this to be ideal, and says so, but he does not detract from the state of others who, for whatever reason, find marriage to be equally fulfilling. How else, you may ask, could mankind adhere to the commandment of the Lord to be fruitful and multiply?

The “ekklesia” in Corinth was largely comprised of redeemed Gentiles. They had come out of paganism and idol worship. So they posed the question about consuming foods which had been offered to idols. They obviously could see no harm in that since they had not personally made the sacrifice. Paul appears to be somewhat ambivalent about this, except in one detail. Believers, he says, with the knowledge that our God is above all gods, and that idols are “nothing” (read Jeremiah 10), know that ‘food does not commend us to God’, in that we are no better if we do eat, and no worse if we don’t. But our consumption of this food, can be a potential stumbling block to those who are “weaker” in the faith, especially when such food is consumed in an idol’s temple! For that reason, Paul says, he would abstain from any such food, or anything else which has the potential to cause a weaker brother to stumble in faith, and be lost to our Messiah. It is also significant that this letter was written about 6 years after the decision of the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15) regarding Torah teaching for Gentiles new to faith in Yeshua. So it is a little surprising that Paul did not make reference to that in his letter to this “ekklesia” in Corinth at this particular time. He does so later in the letter. As we read the teachings of Paul, it is important to bear two things in mind. Firstly, as always with Scripture, take note of the context in which the teaching is given. Secondly, it is the unique characteristic of the Scriptures that they have a universality of application. For that reason we should be careful always to ask the Lord to reveal to us that which He intends us to learn from each passage of Scripture we read.

Shabbat Shalom 

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      11

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

1 Corinthians  5 : 1  to 6 : 20

Paul first visited Corinth on his second missionary journey, in about 52 C.E., and stayed there for 18 months. The letters to the “ekklesia” in Corinth were most likely written from Ephesus about 5 years later. They are pastoral in nature.

The first four chapters of this letter dealt with some ‘contentions’ in the ranks which resulted from groups following different personalities within the “ekklesia” in Corinth.  Chapter 5 opens with a serious report of sexual misdemeanour. Such a situation that was not even named in Gentile paganism, from which the recipients of this epistle had come. The offence was grave in nature, and Paul was concerned about it. (It seems that Paul had previously written to them about this (1 Cor 5:9) but copies of that letter no longer exist.) However, for him, even more alarming was the fact that it appeared to be tolerated by the leadership of the “ekklesia”, with little evidence of corrective action being taken. It seems that the offender appeared unrepentant and chose to continue in his immoral relationship whilst maintaining his position in the “ekklesia”.

Paul said that he had already considered the reports of the situation from afar and had judged the person guilty of the said misconduct. To many, this judgement might be seen to be harsh and extreme. ‘Gather the “ekklesia” together, consider me to be present with you in the Spirit, and ‘deliver such a one to Satan’”‘, was his instruction to them. Can that be right? Well that’s exactly what Paul said. But what does it mean? Each believer in the “ekklesia” was, by consent, under the protection of the Holy Spirit. By faith, each had agreed to live by the principles and ordinances prescribed by God. It is no different today. Those who voluntarily ‘join’ a church (“ekklesia”) agree to uphold the standards and the doctrines of that “ekklesia”. In principle it is a safe place where members care for and support each other. It is part of what we think of as the Kingdom of God. The ‘world’ is a very different ‘kingdom’. It is a kingdom where Satan has free reign. If anyone doubts this, just look around you. Listen to the news broadcasts or read your newspapers.

So to be “delivered to Satan”, was to be cut off from the “ekklesia”. To be outside the safety of the Kingdom of God. Then to emphasise the need for such drastic judgement Paul uses an example from ‘Pesach’, the God ‘appointed time’ (mo’ed) of remembrance (originally of the salvation of the Israelites from Egypt) but also, for us today, of the death, burial and resurrection of Yeshua. (The context indicates that this festival was about to take place, and was celebrated by this Gentile “ekklesia” in Corinth). One of God’s instructions regarding preparation for this remembrance was to clean out all the ‘leaven’ (metaphor for sin) from their homes. Then the day after Pesach, on the fifteenth day of the seventh month of the Hebrew Calendar, the Feast of Unleavened bread commences, wherein no food containing leaven was to be eaten for eight days. This is prophetic of the sinless life of Yeshua. It is a culinary fact that even a small amount of leaven in dough, leavens the whole. The analogy is immediately obvious. To make it abundantly clear, Paul then drew a distinction between the morality of those who remain in the ‘kingdom of this world’, and those who become part of the “ekklesia”. There are distinctly different standards for the latter. Those joined to the “ekklesia” were expected to live according to God’s instructions for righteous living. The biblical word for this is “Torah”. And in Corinth they were mostly a gentile “ekklesia”!

 In Chapter 6, Paul opens the subject of judgement within the “ekklesia”. His instruction to them is precisely along the lines of that contained in Matthew 18. It is regrettable that a lack of Hebraic understanding of the Scriptures, has meant that we completely ignore, by misunderstanding, both the instruction of Matthew 18 and this direct chastisement of Paul to the Corinthians in our dealing with disorder within the modern day “ekklesia”. Is it any wonder that divisive elements within the “ekklesia” flourish and grow to the detriment of the whole? We seem sometimes to function as though God doesn’t even exist! Which is the essence of Paul’s letter of guidance to this “ekklesia” in Corinth.

One of the elements which diminishes the testimony of the “ekklesia” in our day is the well documented cover up of sexual sin within some of the church organizations of all denominations. The treasurer runs off with the church organist! The Sunday School teacher has an addiction to pornography! The pastor acts like a business C.E.O.! A dictator. Etc. Etc.

“Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit … for you are bought at a price, therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s”. said Paul.  His letter to the Corinthians is very practical. We need to understand it within its original Hebraic intent, unsanitized by the ‘spiritualization’ of the words. He says what he means and he means what he says.                        

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      10

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

1 Corinthians  3 : 1  to 4 : 21

Paul first visited Corinth on his second missionary journey, in about 52 C.E., and stayed there for 18 months. The letters to the “ekklesia” in Corinth were most likely written from Ephesus about 5 years later. They are pastoral in nature.

In this week’s reading Paul opens up with a broadside against the evident ‘contention’, regarding certain aspects of doctrine, or perhaps doctrinal emphasis, which had emerged within the “ekklesia” in Corinth. He says that the ‘contention’ between them is indicative of the behaviour of ‘natural men’ rather than that of ‘spiritual men’. He opines that clinging to the views of just one of the messengers, whomsoever that may have been, is what caused division and discord, to the detriment of the true and complete message of the One who is the Master of them all. Each of those messengers are part of God’s whole. Each one of them is chosen by God for a ministry purpose. But none of them has a monopoly on truth. That is the domain of God alone.

It is a lesson that we should all learn. Paul said that during the time he was with them, he laid the foundation on which the “ekklesia” should be built. He used the analogy of a construction site. The foundation stood foursquare on the life, death, and bodily resurrection of Yeshua. It is the faith which individual believers find in His sacrificial sojourn on this earth which changes men from ‘natural men’ into ‘spiritual men’. Men who are then suitable for use in the building itself. Men who become part and parcel of the dwelling place of God Himself. The “ekklesia”. It is not a building made with hands. But there are many, all of them ‘spiritual men’, who are called to partake in the building process. The intent was to build something beautiful, showing the glory of God, but the ‘contention’ in the “ekklesia” in Corinth was causing it to become an ‘ugly’ building.  Can we learn the lesson contained in this analogy?

“Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwell in you?” That alone is enough for anyone to digest. But Paul continues with a most frightening truth. “If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.”   Selah.  Interestingly, I suggest, this may be applied on two levels. Firstly on an individual level, each person bearing responsibility to act and live in a manner which does not ‘defile’ his/her own temple, but also on a corporate level being applied to the “ekklesia”, wherein the actions and lifestyle of an individual causes ‘defilement’ of the whole.

Follow Paul’s line of thinking carefully here please. It is a particularly difficult thought process for us to follow because we have learned to accept Paul as an authoritative teacher, (which he is) chosen for the specific task of bringing Gentiles to faith. As we move to chapter 4 Paul emphasizes his role as a servant and steward of Yeshua, as indeed are we all who confess Him to be our Lord and Master. But using himself as the example, Paul declares that he has no knowledge of his own failings or weaknesses (other than physical ones) as a servant. So he presents himself with authority. But that alone, he says, does not justify him or make him right.  For that reason, he argues, a man cannot judge himself. The ultimate judge of all is the Lord, and He chose all the teachers they were variously following!  So when the brethren in Corinth made choices between different teachers, they were judging one as superior. So who are they to decide between them … and then to divide their “ekklesia” loyalties to reflect their choices.

Now today, I suspect that we are all as guilty as these brethren in Corinth because we all make similar choices in a denominational sense. But the real test we should apply in our circumstance is the degree to which the Word of God is faithfully upheld and preached. It surely would have been much more straightforward if Gentile believers in Yeshua (all zealous for the Torah as in Acts 21) had not been detached from the Hebrew roots of our faith. The division then would have remained as it was for the first believers. A choice between Messianic Judaism and Pharisaic Judaism (which Yeshua called the ‘traditions of men’).

At the end of his ‘broadside’, Paul comes out clearly with the solution. He acquaints them with the deprivations which he had endured for the sake of the gospel to bring them to faith. Read verses 11 -13. They don’t read much like prosperity teaching do they!? “I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children (in the faith) to warn you.”  So what is the solution? “Therefore I urge you, imitate me”. This might come over as rather boastful on Paul’s part. However, Paul had received a personal ‘one on one’ encounter with the risen Saviour. (Acts 9) That encounter resulted in a personal charge and command from God Himself. And the deprivations he described were counted worthwhile to bring them to faith. Mercifully most of us know nothing about that.                  

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      9

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

1 Corinthians  1 : 1  to 2 : 16

Paul first visited Corinth on his second missionary journey, in about 52 C.E., and stayed there for 18 months. The letters to the “ekklesia” in Corinth were most likely written from Ephesus about 5 years later. They are pastoral in nature.

The authorship of these letters is established right up front, as are the intended recipients. Then immediately following the greetings and the niceties, Paul declared the reason for his writing to them. “There are contentions among you!”

Principal among these contentions was the supposed loyalty of various groups to their perception of differing doctrinal emphases of biblical teachers of whom they had knowledge. Such differences are also prevalent in our church denominations today, albeit with other more contemporary teachers being named! But the message of Paul then, is the same message he delivers today through his Pastoral letters. “Take your eye off the messenger, and concentrate on the message. We are who we are, in Him, because it was Messiah Yeshua who paid the price of our salvation”. That is the simple paraphrase of Paul’s declaration. It is Yeshua who is the message, it is Yeshua who is the power of God and it is Yeshua who is the wisdom of God. “To the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness”.

Evidently, we conclude from Paul’s writing, the “ekklesia” was made up of mostly ‘ordinary’ people. Paul could not readily identify (according to the measure of this world) many ‘wise’, or ‘mighty’ or ‘noble’ members of the “ekklesia” in Corinth. So Paul encouraged them with the thought that they were chosen by God for who they are. Even for their ordinariness, so as to put to shame others who might consider themselves of higher degree. It is a high calling, chosen to be of service to the Creator of the Universe, for His own purposes. Bask in that dear friends, if you will, because it is the same calling that God has placed on you and me. To give credence to his words Paul then identified himself with that same group. “I did not come to you with excellence of speech or of wisdom” said Paul. “No”, he continued, “I came in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. My speech and my preaching was not with eloquent words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God”.

For one claiming to not be wise, it seems to me that he exhibits great wisdom right there! But we MUST conclude that that is precisely the wisdom of God demonstrated in a life totally committed to Him, as Paul certainly was. As he continued in his epistle we see that wisdom shining brightly through the lines of the written word. And Paul lays claim to that wisdom as he proceeds. It is, he says, “the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory”. It is a mystery. It is wisdom made available to him. It is wisdom made available to us. There is no magic formula, but there is a condition! We need to take careful observation of the type of committed life Paul led, in order to gain some insight into what that condition might be.   “Selah”.

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him”.

The attributes and gifts, the characteristics, the wisdom, which we both recognize and admire in those we know who love the Lord, do not come by accident. More likely, through many hours of ‘walking’ with the Lord, in prayer, in reading and studying His word, in keeping company with those of like mind, the Holy Spirit of God reveals Himself and implants His special gifts (Galations 5:22) into the life of those who are His.

Paul reminded the members of the “ekklesia” in Corinth, who had ‘contention’ in their ranks, that the wisdom of God is imparted by His Holy Spirit to those who are His. The Holy Spirit does not speak of one doctrine to one and a different doctrine to another. Just as there is one Redeemer, Yeshua, there is one Holy Spirit, and in Him is consistency and truth. Then comes the proof. The test. The evidence. “The natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them for they are spiritually discerned.” In practical terms then, where ‘contention’ prevails within the “ekklesia”, it is evidence of the operation of the ‘natural man’, and it is certain that the Holy Spirit is absent.

There is no evidence in this epistle, thus far, that there were any Jews in this “ekklesia”. For that reason Paul is not able to draw on his own wide knowledge of Torah as a foundation to emphasize the Hebraic way of dealing with the ‘contention’ within this “ekklesia”.

 Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      8

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

Romans  14 : 1  to 16 : 27

Considered to have been written from Corinth in about 56-57 C.E.

Paul now turns to the practicalities of Jew and Gentile living in harmony within the “ekklesia” in Rome. There are very good lessons for us today in this teaching. Firstly the recognition that, just as in every community of believers today, there are people at different stages of their walk with the Lord. It may well have been more marked in the Rome “ekklesia” because it was such a mixed congregation of Jew and Gentile coming from vastly different cultural backgrounds. But we must also be cautious in our interpretation. “For one believes he may eat all things, but he who is weak eats only vegetables.” Tempting as it is to see this as a statement regarding the Torah dietary commandments, it is no such thing. And it is certainly not about the dietary laws being abrogated. So what is it? It is all about the judgement of other people’s enlightenment or otherwise. I write from personal experience. Several years ago, the Lord showed me the path I should take in regard to Deuteronomy 14 dietary instructions. But the Lord also showed me that what He spoke to me, He spoke to me for me, not for anyone else, not even for my wife!

Paul makes this perfectly clear as he continues in saying “But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgement seat of Christ.”  (If you are concerned about your own position in relation to the Biblical dietary laws, ask the Lord. He WILL show you. And what He shows you, be careful to do.) That is the message of Paul. “So then each of us shall give account of himself to God”. It’s personal. But he continues with the very practical advice about harmony in the “ekklesia”. “It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak”. There surely cannot be more sound advice anywhere. It is within the capacity of every one of us to be considerate and understanding, in love, of one another. Paul is asking these brothers in the Lord to “step up” and put aside such differences as may exist so that they can worship the Lord in harmony together. I am reminded of one of Solomon’s many lovely proverbs. “The beginning of strife is like releasing water; therefore stop contention before a quarrel starts” Proverbs 17:14.

Then Paul promised them that he would one day visit them in Rome. He could not have contemplated that his proposed visit would be forcibly accompanied by Roman chains! His plan was to visit Spain and to call into Rome on the way there. But he doesn’t miss the opportunity of again reminding the Gentile element of the “ekklesia” of their responsibility towards the Jews. A lesson we might take to heart, as indeed do the faithful ladies who are members of the Zion’s Voice prayer group. Paul says that at the time of his writing he was about to go to Jerusalem bearing monetary gifts for the saints there. Jewish saints, those who had put their faith and trust in Yeshua. “For if the Gentiles have been partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister to them in material things.”  In Christian churches today Paul is revered for his teaching. But there are not very many Gentile congregations who give any attention at all to this particular exhortation of Paul’s.

Paul’s journeys are more fully covered in the Acts of the Apostles. He asks the “ekklesia” in Rome to join him in prayer for his safety when he returned (with the monetary gifts from the Macedonians) to Judea. The Jewish community there was split, as today, between those who believe in Yeshua (and we are told in Acts 21 that at that time they were counted in their tens of thousands) and those who continued in Pharisaic Judaism in opposition to Yeshua. It was this latter group who eventually facilitated Paul’s return to Rome in chains! And it was only the providence of God which preserved Paul’s life to make that journey!

In concluding these ‘reflections’ on the Epistle of Paul to the “ekklesia” at Rome, it is noteworthy that Paul ended his letter with a number of commendations. People for whom Paul had gained respect through fellowship in various places on his journeys. Many of these friends in the faith were Gentile believers. Notwithstanding the fact that Paul had spent much of his letter promoting harmonious fellowship between Gentiles and Jews, he also could see that as the “ekklesia” grew, there would be some which would have Gentile leadership. Perhaps, the pivotal part of his epistle was therefore in Chapter 11 in which he emphasized the need for Gentile believers to appreciate and value the very roots of their faith which lie squarely in the teaching and example set by the first believers. All Jewish, with insight of, and love for, the Torah of Moses.  How quickly we forget!       

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      7

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

Romans  12 : 1  to 13 : 14

Considered to have been written from Corinth in about 56-57 C.E.

For some, Romans 9 to 11 is thought of as an interruption to the flow of Paul’s teaching, and that he picks up again in Romans 12 where he left off in Romans 8. But, we know that Paul did not write the convenient chapter and verse divisions that we have in our Bible today. They came just a few short centuries ago. Stephen Langton, who later became the Archbishop of Canterbury, provided the chapter divisions in 1227. Then the French printer Robert Estienne added the verse divisions in 1551.

Romans 11 contains a stinging rebuke to Gentiles who misunderstand the importance God places in Israel, His chosen. Through the ‘stumbling’ of the Jew, salvation came to Gentiles, but “God did not forsake Israel”, Paul tells us. Then chapter 12 begins with a “therefore”. That always signifies the need to take note of that which precedes it, doesn’t it? So the narrative flows as Paul, firstly addressing the Gentile, but shortly joining in the whole “ekklesia” of Jew and Gentile together, moves to teach the necessity of harmonious interaction between them within the fellowship.

His analogy of ‘presenting our body a living sacrifice’ seems dramatic, but it perfectly fits the example of Yeshua, who is the central theme and focus of Paul’s exhortation to all who will listen, even today. “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” is the instruction Paul gives to this “ekklesia”. The leader of a large church organisation in Australia, a few years ago, encouraged his congregation ‘to find the best the world has to offer and bring it into the church’. That seems at odds with Paul’s exhortation doesn’t it? We are encouraged to ‘renew our minds’, ‘to be transformed’ from what we were to what we have become in Yeshua our saviour.

Within any “ekklesia” of God worshippers there are many diverse and valuable gifts and talents. Not all members have the same attributes, but all members have equal attributes before God. It is our capacity to ‘corporatize’ everything today that attributes rank and status within the body of believers. None more so today than attaching the words ‘senior’ and ‘chief’ to otherwise humble God given gifts and ministries which He has set within an “ekklesia” for the benefit of the whole. Read the list Paul has presented for the edification of the “ekklesia” in Rome from verses 4 to 18 of chapter 12. It is just as applicable today as it was 2000 years ago.

Then Paul’s exhorts ‘every soul’ to be subject to governing authority. This is considered by commentators to be the civil authority of the nation. And there is ample evidence for this interpretation in the text. But we all know that such authority is capable of, and susceptible to, all manner of corrupt and devious behaviour. Never-the-less Paul says that those in the “ekklesia”, which includes all of us who are believers in Yeshua, should order their lives in a manner which is above reproach. Sounds like a tall order because of our humanity doesn’t it? But that is the standard we are set. “Pay your taxes, yes GST as well”, “Don’t cheat the government”, “Don’t claim expenses you haven’t incurred”. Does that sound familiar?  At the same time, we know that there are occasions when disputes arise between the brethren. I refer you to Matthew 18 and 1 Corinthians 6 for guidance there. It is noteworthy that in Judaism, two or three highly esteemed members of a synagogue community are appointed to make up a “Beit Din” (House of judgment) to arbitrate at such times. When we understand the Hebraic nature of the Scriptures we see that they are the “two or three gathered in My name” of Matthew 18. But Christianity has no such equivalent.

Finally, in further emphasis of the Hebraic nature of Paul’s exhortation, please note again the frequent reference to the Hebrew Scriptures in this passage. Quoting from the Exodus announcement by Moses of the “Ten Commandments”, (which are overwhelmingly accepted as the very basis and foundation of modern day Western Cultures), Paul sums up these main relational commandments into the single commandment found in Leviticus 19:18, which was also quoted by Yeshua in Matthew 22 as like the greatest commandment, “You shall love your neighbour as yourself”. Now it is possible to dismiss this as a kind of ‘motherhood’ statement which we all know. But, dear friends, it is worthy of our long and careful consideration. Or as the Psalmist would say …. Selah.

“Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk properly ..”

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      6

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

Romans  11 : 1 - 35

Considered to have been written from Corinth in about 56-57 C.E.

It would be an extreme rarity to hear an exposition on this chapter of Romans in a Christian church today! It is far too challenging for most. We remind ourselves that this whole letter was written by Paul to an “ekklesia” with relational issues between the Jew and Gentile members of that “ekkelsia”. (Not too different to today eh!) And to again use David Pawson’s summary, in chapter 9 we saw Israel chosen by God. In chapter 10, their rejection of that calling. And now, in chapter 11 we find Paul reminding us that God will keep His covenant with them and restore Israel to the place He has reserved for them. That situation is still future to us today, but we see the signs of it happening as God is orchestrating the return of Jews to Israel, in increasing numbers, from all countries to which they were scattered. We live in a time of great privilege to witness prophecy being fulfilled before our eyes. Prophecies that were entrusted to men, anointed by God to bear His message over 2,500 years ago.

In emphasis of the relationship God has with Israel Paul asks: - “Has God cast away His people?” Then a resounding “Certainly not!” And then he explains some of the history of the Jews, quoting extensively from the Hebrew Scriptures, to indicate that they had in fact ‘stumbled’. “..Have they stumbled that they should fall?” he asks. Again the emphatic “Certainly not!” An amazing revelation follows. God has used the “stumbling” of the Jews to bring salvation to the Gentiles. And that for the specific purpose, “to provoke them to jealousy”. And in that “ekklesia” in Rome it may well have been the case. But in our day, in the 21st century, there has been a complete reversal, and it is not difficult to understand why. No longer is the Jew “provoked to jealousy” by the salvation of the Gentile believer. Why? Because for many centuries the Gentile believer has presented Messiah Yeshua (the Christian Jesus) as a false prophet. One who overtly seeks to take the Jew away from the word of God as declared in the Torah. That is a serious charge, because it represents a complete failure to fulfil the purposes of God. Paul says “If their being cast away is the reconciling of the world”, which it is, “what will their acceptance (reconciliation) be, but life from the dead?” Do not be tempted to minimize this failure on the part of Gentile believers. We have disguised the Jewish Messiah so that He is unrecognizable to the Jew. (the same as Joseph was unrecognizable to his brothers in Egypt)

Then another shock! I was brought up to believe that once one is saved one is always saved. One cannot become “unsaved”. But that is not what Paul teaches this Rome “ekklesia” is it? There is good news and bad news here. Firstly, Israel is likened to a ‘natural Olive Tree’. Branches of that tree were ‘broken off’ (by God) because of unbelief. Other branches, Gentile branches, were grafted into that natural Olive Tree (as in the “ekklesia” in Rome). That’s the good news. But Paul offers a stern warning, of which all Gentile believers should take careful note. “Do not boast against the branches .. remember that you do not support the root (Israel) but the root supports you.” Then comes the bad news. “If God did not spare the natural branches (because of unbelief) He may not spare you either (for the same reason).”

Paul then gets to the main point of his discourse. “if they do not continue in unbelief, they will be grafted in again, for God is able to graft them in again.” They can be restored. And there are other places in the Scriptures which confirm that this is what WILL happen. Notably, Paul quotes from Isaiah, (but it is also written in Jeremiah and Ezekiel) “The Deliverer will come out of Zion, and He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob; for this is My covenant with them, when I take away their sins.”   In case you missed it, this is one of the major elements of the New Covenant which God will make with the House of Israel and the House of Judah as recorded in Jeremiah 31 and repeated Hebrews 8. Israel’s future is secured by the blood of Yeshua. But then, in the Rome “ekklesia”, and today in our modern world, many are still in semi darkness, with a God made veil over their eyes.

“Oh the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgements and His ways past finding out!”

It is my prayer that all who read this ‘reflection’ will come to recognize, as Paul taught this “ekklesia” in Rome, that Israel, and the people of Israel, are precious to God. And what is precious to God we should be very careful to acknowledge and support. For centuries we have been taught that the Jew has to conform to “our way”. God sees it very differently. Do not boast against the branches. Become a branch.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      5

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

Romans 9 : 1 to 10 : 21

Considered to have been written from Corinth in about 56-57 C.E.

The next three chapters of Paul’s letter to the “ekklesia” in Rome have caused both mystery (to some) and enlightenment (to others) in modern day theological understanding. To the first group, these chapters appear to be ‘out of context’ with the rest of the letter. To the second group they become the actual climax of the letter. The purpose for which Paul wrote the letter in fact. The unequivocal focus of these chapters is Israel. David Pawson, in his quite exhaustive series of sermons on these chapters has coined the following description. “Chapter 9 .. Israel chosen .. Calvinism. Chapter 10 .. Israel stubborn .. Replacement Theology. Chapter 11 .. Israel saved .. Zionism.”  A careful ‘reflection’ on these chapters causes me to agree, with very minor reservation, with that summation by David Pawson.

Paul pours out his heart here. “I tell you the truth in Christ, I am not lying … I have continual grief in my heart  … for my brethren (Jews) … for they are not all Israel who are of Israel”. Sounds a bit puzzling eh! But Paul is here looking at his own past. Once blinded by the demands of Pharisaic Judaism with its multiple hedges around the Torah, causing men to fruitlessly strive for perfection and then to judge harshly those of different persuasion, particularly those Jews who had found faith in Yeshua. So Paul writes from his own experience, pointing out the inherent error in trusting Torah observance as a means of attaining salvation. It never was intended for such, and it never will be. Salvation by faith, amply demonstrated in the life of Abraham, is the salvation freely available to all, Jew and Gentile alike. And as a corollary of that, many Jews and many Gentiles are NOT the “children of God”, described here by Paul as simply “Israel” (God’s chosen).

As Paul continues, we note that he often uses the Hebrew Scriptures to validate his argument. Hosea, Isaiah, Nahum, the Psalmist and the Torah of Moses all get a mention. In so doing, he stresses the importance of the instructions contained in the Scriptures in his determination of those who are the real chosen of God. In summary of this Paul quotes Exodus 33:19 in which God says through Moses “I will have mercy on whomever I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whomever I will have compassion”. And then anticipating a “that’s not fair” response, Paul uses the illustration of the potter. The potter can decide whatever he chooses to make out of a lump of clay, and that which he chooses to make has absolutely no say in the matter. The major point here is that God has made some Jew (who may or may not come to Him in faith), and some Gentile (who may or may not come to Him in faith). Those who do, Paul refers to as the “Israel of God”. The saved ones. His special treasure. “For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich (in mercy) to all who call on Him.”

One of the “stumbling blocks” here is Paul’s statement in Chapter 10, verse 4. “For Christ is the end of the Torah for righteousness to everyone who believes”. Understood by many to spell the obsolescence of Torah. Key to understanding Paul here is to observe his own lifestyle choices, He many times declared his Torah observances, which are well illustrated in his statement, made to a Jewish audience,  in Acts 28:17, just a short while before his death in Rome, “Men and brethren, though I have done nothing against our people, or the customs of our fathers,”. He himself, being Torah observant all his life, is most unlikely to teach against Torah. David Stern got it right, I believe, when he translated this verse “For Christ is the GOAL (the aim, the purpose, as in ‘end’) of the Torah.”  Yeshua became the living Torah, didn’t He? God’s instruction for righteous living in human form. Our example of perfect righteousness.

Another of Paul’s true statements, which, in my view, is incomplete because it stops short of the consequential outcome it provokes, is the classic description of salvation. Romans 10:9. “..if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”  Now it is absolutely true that no-one can add anything to that to further ones salvation. It is complete. A done deal. However, it reads as a somewhat academic process of the mind. No-where in this letter does Paul mention repentance. After all he is writing to believers isn’t he?. But I believe that the “confession” which Paul talks about is a consequence of unstated repentance. And it is that repentance which gives birth to a change in behaviour. That would certainly be true of a person moving from paganism to believer. So saying the words alone, which is often the call from church pulpits, should of necessity also involve a change to “righteous living”, and all that that implies.  Selah!

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      4

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

Romans 7 : 1 to 8 : 39

Considered to have been written from Corinth in about 56-57 C.E.

As chapter 7 opens, we find Paul had the arrogant Jewish believers in his sights as he tried to explain the place that Torah observance plays in the faith life of a believer. His reasoning is not easy to follow, and he goes through a number of steps to arrive at his conclusion. He likens it to the position of a married woman, who is bound to her husband as long as he is alive. If she takes another man, then she commits adultery. But when her husband dies, she is perfectly free to take another husband without the stigma of adultery being attached to that relationship. That much is perfectly clear!

So, Paul explains, the Jewish man is bound to the Torah (like a wife to a husband) as long as he lives. (And in many cases that was a legalistic relationship steeped in Pharisaic Judaism). But, when that man becomes a believer in Yeshua, it is as though that wife (the legalism of Pharisaic Judaism) had died, and he is now perfectly free to take another ‘wife’ (Yeshua who died for us) without the stigma of unfaithfulness to the Torah (which was the actual first wife). Now, dear friends, be careful not to read this chapter in isolation from the rest of the letter. Let us remind ourselves that when Paul wrote this letter, it did not have the chapter and verse partitions that we see in our Bible today. It was one continuous teaching, and just a few sentences earlier (in chapter 6) Paul had told them that, by faith, they had willingly become “slaves of righteousness”. The ‘righteousness’ which is the instruction of God to all who are His, and which He gave to Moses for the people to reside together in harmony.

How do I come to this conclusion? Because Paul stated unequivocally, in verse 12, “The Torah is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good”. And nowhere in all the Scriptures did Yeshua, or Paul, or indeed anyone else nullify or denigrate the observance of Torah. On the contrary, they ALL zealously observed the Torah. But what they all condemned was the legalistic observances of Pharisaic Judaism, which Yeshua termed “the traditions of men”. And that, my friends, is the ‘law’ which kills!! Paul continues, “So then, with the mind I myself serve the Torah of God, but with the flesh the ‘law’ of sin.” And doesn’t that describe the condition of most of us?

Romans 8 is considered to be one of those great liberating teachings of the apostle Paul. “There is now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus”. It is a statement of truth. He who knew NO sin, became sin for us. The sin which condemns us was borne in His body on the cross in Jerusalem 2,000 years ago. He is now seated at the right hand of the Father in heaven making intercession on our behalf. Wonderfully liberating truths. “The law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death”. Hallellujah! Thankyou Lord. It is an amazing passage of Scripture. But is it true?

Well, the answer to that question is a very personal one isn’t it? It certainly can be true for everyone who, in faith, has trust in the redemptive work of Yeshua. Our “greek” mindset has been taught that it is only a matter of verbal assent to the concept that Yeshua died for us. But the Hebraic mindset tells us that (as the Apostle James told us) “faith without works is dead”. Unless that faith has made us “slaves to righteousness”, and all that that means, then we are “a sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal”. All froth and no substance.

All too often, the “led by the Spirit” culture is interpreted as a “live as you please” licence. Certainly there is freedom in the Spirit of God, but it is not a freedom to ignore God’s call to righteousness. “The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God”. Note that there are TWO spirits here, the Holy Spirit and our spirit. We must take care, in honesty, to determine which “spirit” is leading us. One of the main witnesses to our personal state is to honestly ask ourselves how much time we spend with God, in reading His word and in prayer.

Paul gives the “ekklesia” in Rome a wonderful promise, which I sincerely believe is appropriate to every believer. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, and to those who are called according to His purpose.”  Just check out the conditions contained in this promise with me. Firstly “all things”, secondly “those who love God” and lastly “called according to His purpose”.  I am sure that Paul was confident that the recipients of his letter to that “ekklesia” in Rome would check out their hearts to determine where they stood in relationship to a holy God. We should surely do the same.

 Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      3

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

Romans 5 : 1 to 6 : 23

Considered to have been written from Corinth in about 56-57 C.E

“Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” says Paul. So having already established that Jew and Gentile are equal before God, (and knowing that there were difficulties between these two groups in the “ekklesia” at Rome), Paul reminded them that it is because of their faith that they enjoy peace with a holy God. That is why, he says, they should glory in the tribulations which beset them. Their ‘tribulations’ produce perseverance, character and hope. And even before they came to faith, Christ died for them to demonstrate His great love for them. Paul is saying that in response to the great love they have all received from God, as equals, they should then live harmoniously together (within the “ekklesia”), appreciating that they are all equal beneficiaries of God’s great love for them all, and they should extend that same love to each other..

Now, dear friends, out of this discourse there are many lessons for us today. The situation in the Rome “ekklesia”, with disputation amongst the brethren, is in evidence many times over throughout the Christian denominational scene in our modern world today. And that is Gentile believer to Gentile believer. To add a Hebraic dimension to this, when we include the Jewish people in the mix, the animosity is even more stark. In Rome, as in other diaspora “ekklesia”, it was the Jewish believers who were ‘bringing the light’. Paul, the Rabbi Sha’ul, being the chief evangelist! The worship of God mostly, if not always, took place in Jewish Synagogues. The Gentile believers were privileged to belong. Well may we ask how did that get turned on its head? The answer lies in the centuries of wanton neglect, by Christians, of the Hebraic roots of our faith.

As we come to the end of chapter 5 and begin chapter 6, Paul emphasizes the fact that when God gave us Torah (His instructions for living righteously) it became obvious that ‘mankind’ was aware of ‘chata’, sin, ‘missing the mark’. But in His love, mercy and abundant grace, God provided the way back to Himself. A way of ‘drawing near’ to Him, through sacrifices, which culminated in the once for all time sacrificial death of Yeshua. Grace is ‘unmerited favour’. So Paul asks “Should we continue in ‘chata’ that grace may abound?” Then the resounding “Certainly not!” Why? He gives us this astounding revelation. By the power of Almighty God, Yeshua was raised from the dead and moved from life to LIFE, a new life with the Father. And Paul declares here that the same power which raised Yeshua from the dead can change believers from life to LIFE, newness of life, living in praise to God and free from the binding shackles of sin. Life, which in the circumstances of the “ekklesia” in Rome would allow them to live together in harmony.

“Do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin” he says, “but present yourselves to God being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God”. How clear is that? Then Paul follows this with the often quoted, but misinterpreted, ‘eight words at the end of a sentence!’. NOT just “for you are not under law but under grace”. BUT, “Sin shall not have dominion over you, (where sin is ‘the master’ and that master has to be obeyed) for you are not under law (that law of sin and death) but under grace (which comes from a very different master)”. You are free to live without sin in your life. Then using the human example of servitude, wherein a person has an obligation to do whatever their master instructs, he says “You used to be slaves to sin, but now you have become slaves of righteousness!”

Paul then, using many words, in emphasis of the point he has been making, embarked on the rewards of behaviour. We are often times prone to think that once we are saved we are ‘under grace’ and our behaviour has no bearing on our destiny. And it is certainly true that the ‘grace of God’, extended to us in the form of the sacrificial death and resurrection of Yeshua, provides His unmerited gift of salvation to all who, in faith, believe. However, as Paul has stated clearly in this reading, our newly found faith DOES (or should) have a behavioural impact. Our “slavemaster” has changed! No longer do we engage in matters which are displeasing to a holy God, but now we direct our efforts in righteous living. For most of us that is a complete change in behaviour.

So Paul concludes “For the wages (that which we are paid for the work we DO) of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord”.  Moses put two alternatives to the Children of Israel in Deuteronomy 30:19. Paul has put them to the “ekklesia’ in Rome. This ‘reflection’ offers them to you today. Choose LIFE.

 Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      2

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

Romans 3 : 1 to 4 : 25

Considered to have been written from Corinth in about 56-57 C.E.

We remind ourselves that the main purpose of this letter was to “mend some fences” which had arisen between the Gentile and Jewish members of the “ekklesia” in Rome. Paul had not previously visited Rome, and most probably got his information from Priscilla and Aquila in Corinth. In our ‘reflection’ last week we saw that Paul laid out the ‘ground rules’ concerning unrighteousness which was a characteristic of both the formerly pagan Gentile, and the boastful Jewish, members of that “ekklesia”. They were the same in the sight of a holy God.

“What advantage then has the Jew?” he writes. Now, bearing in mind that Paul, as a fervent Pharisaic Jew, had spent his early years of adulthood mercilessly persecuting the believers in Yeshua, but that following his miraculous encounter with Yeshua on the Damascus Road he had become an equally fervent believer in Him, never-the-less he remained a faithful Torah observant Jew ALL his life. So he knew what he was talking about. He highlighted the fact that, through the Jews, God had made known His written word. They alone had been entrusted with the task of “being a light to the Nations”. The fact that some of them believed and some did not, did not in any way invalidate God’s uncompromising faithfulness to the Jew, with whom He had made some irrevocable and unconditional covenants.

Paul continued, and I paraphrase here, “does that mean that Jews cannot sin? Of course not, and to that extent they are in the same category as all mankind in God’s eyes. Sin of the Jews is the same as sin of the Gentiles. So why did God give them the Torah? Because they are a chosen people of God and by the Torah they know what is right and what is wrong in God’s eyes, and so they have an acute awareness of God’s requirement for righteous living.” Then he continued, “The righteousness of God, apart from the Torah is revealed (in the Scriptures) being witnessed by the Torah and the Prophets”. Speaking here of the abundant grace of God who imputes righteousness to all who come to Him in faith, trusting in the redemptive work of Yeshua. Then expressing the universality of the unrighteousness of mankind, both Jew and Gentile, we have one of the most quoted verses of Scripture in all our Bible, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”. No exceptions. None.

As Paul continued to stress the fact that Jew and Gentile are equal in God’s eyes, he makes TWO statements which are pivotal to the Hebraic understanding of the teaching of Paul. First he says “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the Torah”. Then to avoid any possible misunderstanding, he says “Do we then make void the Torah through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish the Torah”. In the simplest possible way he is expressing that our very faith in Him who saves us, also makes us zealous for God’s instructions for righteous living. And that is exactly what it did for the early believers in Yeshua (Acts 21:20). It is a matter of regret that most of us in this ‘church age’ have been taught quite the opposite, that our faith makes Torah obsolete. How sad.

In Chapter 4 of our reading this week, Paul embarked on a history lesson for the Gentile believers in Rome. Paul had never met these folk. He wasn’t sure what they had been taught and what not. So he starts at the very beginning, building a foundation on which faith in Yeshua would firmly stand. The same foundation on which the Jewish believers stood. Abraham exhibited a quality of faith which God counted to him as righteousness. We do not know how that happened. We do not know much about Abraham before this encounter. (Legend has it that Abraham’s father, Terah, was an ‘idol maker’, and over time Abraham came to see the futility which there was in the worship of idols. There are some quite humorous stories told about this!) What we do know is that Abraham was obedient to God’s call and was chosen by Him to be the father of a people described in God’s Word as His Special Treasure.

Eventually, God instructed Abraham about ‘circumcision’, which is the covenant sign of those who are descended from Abraham, and which, it seems, became a matter of ‘boasting’ by the Jews in the Rome “ekklesia’. But Paul was at pains to emphasise that God did not call Abraham because he was circumcised, but caused him to be circumcised as a sign of his faith. It was Abraham’s faith, whilst still a Gentile, which was counted for righteousness, not his circumcision. And Paul is teaching here that what God did for Abraham He can do for any other Gentile who has faith in Him. Righteousness is imputed to us because of our faith.                     

Shabbat Shalom 

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      1

Hebraic understanding of the teaching letters of the Apostles

Romans 1 : 1 to 2 : 29

Considered to have been written from Corinth in about 56-57 C.E.

As we enter another year of study, we take a look at the letters written to the diaspora “ekklesia”. The objective being to attempt to bring to a 21st century Christian the Hebraic understanding of those letters as the early believers in Yeshua would have viewed them.

The letter to the Romans is unique. It was written, by the Apostle Paul, to a group of people who, as far as we know, had not previously been visited by any of the writing Apostles. It also has the distinction of being written to “break down some barriers” which had arisen between two distinctly different groups of believers. On one hand, Gentiles. On the other, Jews.

About 54 C.E. the Emperor Claudius (Acts 18:2) had expelled the Jews from Rome. A few years later the Emperor Nero had invited them back! But the situation had changed. Evidently, the Jews who had settled in Rome much earlier, and had set up a worshipping community, had been joined by a number of Gentiles who had become believers. Then, having been deprived of their teachers and leaders (the expelled Jews), those Gentile believers had developed some ideas of their own and did not readily welcome the returning Jews into their previous roles in the worshipping community. So, in very broad terms, Paul wrote this letter to address the important matter of unity within the “ekklesia’ which was necessary for communion with God and each other.

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek”.  Right up front Paul lays it out plain and simple. ‘You are in this together’ he says. ‘The gospel of Christ is the power of God for salvation for you all. There is but ONE God, He is the same God that provides salvation for ALL of you.’  No exceptions.

Paul then addressed the state of the unbelieving Gentile (pagan) people before they came to faith in Yeshua. It does not require great insight to see that the same characteristics described here are very much the same today in our secular society which appears to be “hell bent” on ignoring the very existence of a holy God, and deciding, wilfully, ‘to do it my way’.  This is why the Scriptures are so valuable. As “The Preacher” said, ‘there is nothing new under the sun’. (Ecclesiastes 1:9).

But in chapter 2 of our text, Paul changed tack. Having described the state of the unregenerate Gentile, he takes on the arrogant Jew. “For there is no partiality with God” he starts off. “For as many as have sinned without Torah, will also perish without Torah”. Then “and as many as have sinned with Torah, will be judged by Torah”. The common denominator here is SIN. “Chata” in Hebrew. “missing the mark” in English. Don’t rely on Torah to save you. It’s how you live your life. (that does NOT mean ‘salvation by works’, but rather “works because of salvation!”)

Christians today are quick to say “we are not under Law but under grace”. Eight words at the end of a sentence. Very few can quote the beginning of that sentence, or even where it is found in the Scriptures! Well, from the same writer, here are nine words at the end of another sentence. “But the doers of the Law will be justified”. Taken out of context, neither one is an accurate statement. Please do your own study and get the true meaning. In the first quoted, the “Law” is “the Law of sin and death” (not the Torah). In the second, it refers to the perfect (but impossible) adherence to ALL God’s requirements.

In emphasis, Paul then embarked on an explanation of the way in which many Jews, even today, rely on the circumstance of their birth as a Jew to find favour with God, to the exclusion of others. Now it has to be said that Paul can be quite ‘convoluted’ in his use of words to get to the point. Even the Apostle Peter remarked on this difficulty (2 Peter 3:15,16). Paul says “You who make boast in the ‘Torah’, do you dishonour God through breaking the ‘Torah’”. It seems that these Jews returning to Rome were boasting of some kind of superiority over the Gentiles because of their Torah observances, whilst at the same time falling short in many instances. Then in placation of the situation, illustrating the equality of all believers before a holy God, Paul made the overarching statement of God’s view of people. He said “ ..but he is a Jew who is one inwardly: and circumcision (the covenant sign of Abraham’s promise) is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter: ..”  So front and centre Paul lays down the ground rules for fellowship between these two groups of people who had once shared fellowship together, but now did not. “You are equal in the sight of God!”  And dear friends, nothing has changed.

Shabbat Shalom   

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   51 

Torah portion          

Haftarah portion       

Brit Hadashah          Acts 26 : 1  - 28 : 31

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

Our final ‘reflection’ in Acts sees Paul begin his arduous and eventful journey to Rome. His audience with King Agrippa had ended on an interesting note, with Agrippa declaring Paul’s complete innocence of the charges brought against him by the Sanhedrin. This is yet another example of the way God works to bring about His purposes. He had prophesied that Paul would go to Rome (to Kings) to witness for Him. And now it is about to be fulfilled. But not without God demonstrating yet again, to Paul and his travelling companions, His awesome might and power during the hazardous voyage.

(For interest and information, scholars have determined that Paul’s encounter with the risen Yeshua was probably in the year 37 C.E. and now, at this point in his life, Paul had already written epistles to the “ekklesia” in Thessalonica (twice) 52 C.E., Corinth (twice) 57 C.E., Galatia 57 C.E. and Rome 58 C.E.. His journey to Rome occurred during the period from 60-61 C.E. and he died there about 67 C.E.)

The eventful journey is described in some detail, but consequent upon Paul’s strength and faith in Almighty God resulted in all 276 persons on the ship arriving safely in Malta. There God miraculously used Paul to His own glory by the survival of Paul from a deadly serpent’s bite, and in the healing miracle wrought in the life of the father of Plubius, a leading citizen of Malta. Thus, although Paul was never one to seek glory for himself, it never-the-less resulted in significant benefit to Paul and his companions. (Those who visit Malta today will observe an overwhelming Christian influence, which is thought to be a result of Paul’s visit 2000 years ago). One is tempted to observe that God always looks after His own, and Paul was definitely one of His own!  Does anyone else remember the refrain from the old hymn? :-

God is still on the throne,
And He will remember His own;
Tho’ trials may press us and burdens distress us,
He never will leave us alone;
God is still on the throne,
He never forsaketh His own;
His promise is true, He will not forget you,
God is still on the throne.

After resting in Malta for about three months they continued on to Rome. Upon arrival, Paul was allowed to live freely in the community, albeit under the watchful eye of one of the soldiers. There was no “jetlag” in Paul’s day! So after three days Paul set about his task of teaching, firstly the Jewish population, about Yeshua. At last they were able put a ‘face’ to the ‘letter writer’.

(Let us note here that Paul had written to the Roman “ekklesia” from Corinth a couple of years earlier in an attempt to mend breaches in the relationship between the Jewish and Gentile believers, which had been occasioned following the expulsion of the Jews from Rome by Emperor Claudius in 54 C.E. then, just three years later invited back by Emperor Nero … but that is another story!!).

In establishing his credentials to the Jewish leaders, and to counter any misinformation which might have preceded him from Jerusalem he quickly stated, as he had done to the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem, that he had done NOTHING against the laws and customs of Judaism. But they had heard nothing contrary about him from Jerusalem, or from anyone else. However, they were aware that  “The Way” was spoken of with contempt by many other orthodox Jewish communities. They were anxious to get the story ‘at first hand’ so to speak. So on an appointed day they met again at Paul’s lodging where he “solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Yeshua from both the Torah of Moses and the prophets, from morning till evening”. The record shows that some were convinced and others were not. It has always been the same. But in their case, Paul rebuked them with words from the Prophet Isaiah and declared that the salvation in Yeshua which was (and is) freely available to them would be offered, just as freely, to the Gentiles, and they would hear it!! The rest, as they say, is history.

There are many lessons to be learned from our readings in the Book of the Acts of the Apostles. From Yeshua’s ascent into heaven and His promised return in like manner. The gift of the fullness of God’s Holy Spirit to empower trusting men. And the exploits of the Apostle to the Gentiles, our beloved Paul (Rabbi Sha’ul). We have learned that Paul’s own testimony, from his own lips, was that he was remarkably changed, by Yeshua, from blindness to Him in Pharisaic Judaism, to worship of Him in Messianic Judaism. We are the beneficiaries.    

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   50 

Torah portion          

Haftarah portion       

Brit Hadashah          Acts 24 : 1 - 25 : 27

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

Paul was held for 5 days in the Roman Praetorium in Ceasarea awaiting the arrival of his accusers from Jerusalem. Ananias, the High Priest, with elders of the Sanhedrin, who brought with them Tertullus, a man gifted in public speaking to present their case before Felix, the Roman Governor. The exchange of testimony before Felix is interesting, but it has to be viewed through the lens of God’s direction. He had determined that Paul would appear before the authorities in Rome. So the events which took place in Caesarea are just a prelude to the ‘main event” so to speak.

However, there is much for us to learn about the faith of the Apostle Paul from this encounter, especially when correctly viewed from a “Hebraic” mindset rather than the ‘traditional’ Gentile one. Firstly, Tertullus makes his statement, which is a faithful repeat of charges made in Jerusalem. Paul is described by them as a “ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes” (not to be confused with ‘Nazarites’). It was the “Nazarenes” (equally properly called “Messianic Jews”), who were the irritant to these ‘orthodox’ accusers. Paul does not dispute their description of him, but he flatly denies the charge of incitement of the crowd in any location.

Paul then, referring to these “Messianic Jews” as a sect of Judaism known as “The Way”, readily confesses to being one of them. Then he elaborates on the doctrinal belief of this sect. Like them, he declared, “I worship the God of my fathers, believing ALL things which are written in the Law (Torah) and the Prophets”. I cannot find any place in Scripture where Paul ever amended this statement of the relevance of this doctrine in regard to his personal faith. It is the misunderstanding of this which has caused error to be taught about him by some Christian leaders in modern days, particularly in relation to many of the statements contained in his pastoral teaching letters. His burden in those letters was to assert and confirm that there was no compulsion on Gentiles to convert to Judaism in order to become a member of their community of faith. (as the orthodox Judaizers were proclaiming). However, it is noteworthy that invariably, the Gentiles joined the Jewish believers in worship. And that usually as part of the “ekklesia” which met in Synagogues. Compare that to today.  Selah.

Felix, who had a Jewish wife, understood the doctrines of “the Way”, so having heard the accusations against Paul, and his response, decided to defer his judgement. He had hoped, and even expected, Paul to offer him a bribe to let him go. Instead Paul preached to him about ‘the fruit of the spirit’ and the judgment to come! Felix continued to hold Paul in a kind of open captivity in Caesarea for another two years until his time in office came to a close. He was superseded by Porcius Festus, who shortly after his arrival in Caesarea took a trip to Jerusalem. There he was confronted by the members of the Sanhedrin about “Paul’s case”. They connived to have Paul brought back to Jerusalem, planning to assassinate him on the journey back from Caesarea. Festus would have none of it, and ten days later went back to Caesarea.

Another trial, more false accusations, another defence by Paul who again affirmed his position that “Neither against the law (Torah) of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar, have I offended in anything at all.” He also claimed his Roman citizenship rights to be judged before a Roman court. Thus it was that Festus, being satisfied of Paul’s innocence of the charges laid against him by the Jews, decided that Paul would be sent to Rome to be judged by Caesar Augustus. But still, Festus had no charges against Paul which warranted such a course of action!

Then Festus received Royal visitors. King Agrippa and his wife Bernice. This Agrippa was a great grand-son of Herod the Great. He was ‘puppet’ king of that region but was held in esteem by the Roman governors. So it was that Festus acquainted him with “Paul’s case”.  Agrippa was intrigued by Festus’ explanation and decided that he would like to hear Paul for himself. (Now this is a further fulfilment of the prophetic announcement which God made to Ananias in Acts 9:15 wherein God said Paul would testify of Himself “before Gentiles, kings and the children of Israel”). This Royal audience also gave Festus something to write to Augustus about to warrant his decision to send Paul to Rome.

The two main lessons illustrated in this portion of Scripture, for me, are that God is faithful to every prophetic pronouncement He makes, and He has His own way of arranging the outcome. Also, the clear evidence from Paul’s own testimony (as distinct from what others teach about him) is that he remained a faithful, Torah observant Jew, right up to this time when he was about to depart for Rome.    

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   49 

Torah portion          

Haftarah portion       

Brit Hadashah          Acts 22 : 1 - 23 : 35

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

Paul had been falsely accused of taking a Gentile into the Temple courts. For that, he was beaten by the mob, then rescued and arrested (as was prophesied by Agabus in Acts 13) by the Roman militia. As he was being led away he asked that he be allowed to address the crowd. Permission granted. Thus began a series of trials and defences to which Paul was subjected. So fulfilling the prophecy the Lord spoke in Acts 9:15,16 when He sent Ananias to minister to Paul on the road to Damascus.

The mob were silent as Paul began to address them in Hebrew. He briefly outlined his background as a rabbinic student under Gamaliel, stressing his strict orthodox Jewish upbringing and practice, even to the point of severe persecution of the followers of Yeshua (just as they were themselves). He told them the story of his encounter with Yeshua on that Damascus Road and as he did, he provided information about the above mentioned Ananias which is most enlightening. Paul said “Ananias, a devout man according to the Torah, having a good testimony with all the Jews who dwelt there.”  That was the description of the lifestyle of a devout believer in Yeshau. Ananias was a man zealous for the Torah. A man having a good testimony with ALL the Jews living there. It was the hallmark of their life of faith. This is certainly not the description of one who considered Torah obsolete, which is what many of us have been taught to be a characteristic of those Jewish believers today, is it?

Now Paul was doing pretty well with his audience until he declared that God had called him to go to preach the word to the Gentiles. The crowd turned on him immediately, so for his own safety the Roman militia again bound him, intending to interrogate him whilst giving him a good beating at the same time. “I am an uncondemned Roman citizen” Paul said. Then under direct questioning he confirmed it again in Acts 22 verses 27,28. (It is thought that citizens of Tarsus, the Capital city of the Roman province of Cilicia, were granted special status by the Romans). So Paul’s Roman citizen claim did two things. It saved him from a severe beating, and it put him into another round of questioning in front of the governing Jewish Sanhedrin, with the Roman authorities as observers to the proceedings.

“I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day” Paul started. “Smack him in the mouth” ordered the High Priest. Wow!!  A bitter exchange followed, for which Paul graciously apologised when he discovered that it was indeed the High Priest with whom he was having the stoush. But Paul had made his point! In the same way that Yeshua had charged the ruling Jewish authorities of being all show and no substance (whitewashed walls) so Paul too had accused them. But knowing that there were both Sadducees and Pharisees on the Council Paul then provoked division between them knowing that they held opposite views about the resurrection of the dead, and that he himself was a born a Pharisee (albeit now converted to Messianic Judaism). The dissention in the Council became heated! The Pharisees found no fault in Paul and wanted him released. The Sadducees wanted him executed. So much so that a group of over forty of them bound themselves in an oath to not eat anything until they had put an end to Paul’s life, (they might have starved to death) and then set about plotting how to arrange it.

But God had more work for Paul to do. And that work was in Rome!! The Lord spoke to Paul whilst he was incarcerated in the Roman barracks. “Be of good cheer Paul; for as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome.” What an amazing assignment! But in that assignment, Paul had the assurance then that he would not be put to death at the hands of the Jews. Furthermore, God confirmed again the prophetic announcement He had made to Ananias about Paul in Acts 9:15. That Paul would “bear My name before Gentiles, kings and the children of Israel”. The Romans were rulers in Israel, but the seat of their power was in Rome.

Paul’s nephew became aware of the Jews assasination plot and told the commander of the Roman militia, who promptly arranged for Paul to be taken, under substantial armed escort, to Caesarea, to be judged by Felix the Roman Governor. But when Felix discovered that Paul, even though he was a Roman citizen was born in Tarsus of Cilicia, he decided that he would not hear the case until Paul’s Jewish accusers were also present. So Paul was held in custody within the Governor’s residence in Caesarea for the next several days.

And so it was, that God continued to work out His purposes in His chosen ‘vessels’, just as He does today.   

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Torah Reflections        Tabernacles

Torah portions              Leviticus 22:26 to 23:44  and Numbers 29 :12 - 16

Haftarah portion         Zechariah 14 : 1-21

The Torah of YHWH given to Moses

Leviticus 23 and Deuteronomy 16 have the commandments about annual observances of the “mo’edim”. (The Hebrew word for “appointed times”, which in turn is usually translated into English as “feasts”). These are times when God specified He would meet with His chosen ones.

Today, they are most often referred to as “Jewish Feasts”. That correctly describes the fact that they are observances remembered by Jews. But it is an incorrect understanding of the Scriptures.

When God gave these instructions to Moses, He carefully worded these ‘appointed times’ (mo’edim) as MY ‘mo’edim’. They may be characterized as times when God says, in effect, “I will be there to meet with you on these specific occasions”. Those who choose not to attend miss an opportunity of blessing through meeting with Him at His invitation.

This festival is a happy occasion. It lasts for seven days and begins and ends with a Sabbath rest. Following just 4 days after the most solemn remembrance of Yom Kippur it is celebrated in a very special way in Israel particularly.  The festival is actually known by THREE different English names. Tabernacles, Booths and Ingathering. In Hebrew” Sukkot”.

Each family builds a kind of makeshift shelter, which they call “booths”, outside their home. It is deliberately constructed so that the roof is lightly covered with palm fronds which easily allows those inside the shelter to see the sky above. Observant Jewish families then carry on all normal family activities in and around this shelter. That includes having meals and sleeping.  The purpose of these constructions is to cause the family to remember the time when their ancestors lived in this manner in their wilderness journeying’s from Egypt to the Promised Land. Naturally, there is also much storytelling and appropriate scripture reading to encourage and enlighten the experience for the children of the family.

As mentioned above, it is an especially joyful festival.

In terms of our understanding of the prophetic significance of this festival, we need to recall the teaching which accompanied the first two festivals of this season. TRUMPETS heralds the return to this Earth of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach in power and great glory. Then follow 10 days of putting things right, before we remember the very solemn festival of YOM KIPPUR which is prophetic of the Great White Throne Judgement.

As the old hymn puts it “When the roll is called up yonder I’ll be there”. Well this festival is effectively the time for ‘roll calling’. Those who have been judged worthy at the Great White Throne Judgement are invited to attend the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. That is consistent with the joyfulness of the occasion isn’t it?  In fact, “the Bride” of the Lamb is the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21 : 9 – 27) and there is no place for impurity within its walls. Only those cleansed by the blood of the Lamb participate in the Marriage Supper.

There is ONE more activity associated with this festival in Judaism. On the last day of the celebration is the most joyous parading of the Torah Scrolls through the Streets in Jerusalem, and I suspect, but have not personally witnessed, in other Jewish communities. This is called “Simchat Torah” (Rejoicing in the Torah). It marks the fact that the whole cycle of reading the Torah starts again for another year.

Take time to study and learn the significance of all the “mo’edim” of the Lord. They are full of rich meaning and this festival has been singled out for special mention in the millennial Kingdom. Read it for yourself in Zechariah 14 : 16 -19. It forms part of the Haftarah portion for this week.

Why is this ‘mo’ed’ singled out?  For your thoughtful consideration, the first clue comes in Jeremiah 16:14,15. Probably the most memorable day in the Hebrew calendar superseded by a bigger event! Jews restored to the Land in preparation for the return of Messiah. Pesach (which includes Unleavened Bread and Firstfruits) no longer celebrated. Shavuot, traditionally the time of giving of Torah superseded by a New Covenant. Yom Teruah completed by the appearance of Yeshua as King of kings.(No third appearance expected)  Yom Kippur, already completed at the White Throne Judgement. And what remains is the joyful time when Yeshua Tabernacles with us for the rest of time. It is the ONLY festival which remains when Yeshua returns to reign.  Hallelujah, what a Saviour. Be part of “The great ingathering”.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      48     

Torah portion                  Deuteronomy 33 : 1 – 34 : 12

Haftarah portion          Joshua  1 : 1 – 18 

Brit Hadashah                Acts 19 : 1  - 21 : 40

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

What an interesting and challenging encounter Paul experienced when he got to Ephesus, once an important sea port. Today, some kilometres from the present-day coastline, it is one of the best preserved and restored of all the Biblical sites in Turkey and it is possible to walk the streets and imagine things about which we read in the Scriptures.

Paul found about twelve ‘disciples’ there who had established a Synagogue. But these men were ‘disciples’ of John the Baptizer, and had probably left Israel before Yeshua began His earthly ministry. In any event they were unfamiliar with the Holy Spirit. Paul laid hands on them and they “spoke with tongues and prophesied”. The Scripture is clear on this point. (Many churches today teach that the “tongues” of Acts 2 were foreign languages. And certainly foreigners understood the message in their own tongue. But here there is no suggestion of other languages here is there? Just “tongues”.  Selah)  Paul remained with them, teaching in their Synagogue for a further three months. But some of these men became ‘hardened’ and spoke evil of the “ekklesia”. So Paul withdrew from meeting with them and arranged for his small “ekklesia” to meet separately in another place. He continued to teach there for another two years and God worked many “unusual miracles” amongst them during this time. Even healing people and casting out demons using aprons and handkerchiefs which had been touched by Paul.

Then came the counterfeits! There are always ‘counterfeits’ aren’t there? But God exposed the counterfeit and brought great blessing to the “ekklesia’ and “the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed”. In fact, so mightily that the peddlers of artefacts relating to the many breasted goddess Artemis (also called Diana) saw significant threat to their business. A lesson for us here. There will ALWAYS be conflict between idolatry and the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Count on it. Eventually, Paul wanted to preach in that temple, but after much dispute as the idolaters tried to have Paul and the other disciples charged with offenses against their ‘godess’, the city clerk intervened and restored some order. So Paul moved on again. Chapter 20 gives the account of various places visited before Paul, after celebrating Passover in Philippi met up with the others in Troas, where they stayed another seven days.

A “Hebraic” understanding of the well-known, but often misunderstood, events in Troas is worth explaining. Our Bible tells us “Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread”. This was NOT a Sunday morning communion service as is often supposed. To ‘break bread’ was to share a meal together. This was the first meal after Shabbat, eaten after sundown (the beginning of the first day of the week) on Saturday evening. It was then, and still is, known by Jews as Havdalah (a Hebrew word meaning ‘separation’). It is a time of fellowship when in those days people met together to share a meal and  to rekindle their lamps (hence the presence of many lamps in the room) and to celebrate the end of the “holy” (Shabbat) and the commencement of the “secular” (the regular days). On this occasion Paul spoke for a long time (until midnight) and one of them, Eutychus, fell asleep. Please note again in verse 11 the reference to ‘breaking bread’ being a phrase denoting eating food.

Eventually, Paul made his way back to Jerusalem, but not before again encountering the prophet Agabus, whom Paul had first met at Antioch at the beginning of his ministry. Agabus warned Paul that he would be taken captive at the hands of Gentiles if he returned to Jerusalem. But Paul went anyway.

I commend everyone reading this ‘reflection’ to spend time reading Acts Chapter 21 carefully. You will find out more about Paul, and early Jewish believers than you imagine. Paul presented himself to the Jerusalem Council, headed by James, who told Paul that many ‘miriads’ (means tens of thousands) of Jews had come to faith in Yeshua and that “they are ALL zealous for the Torah”. BUT that they had been misinformed that Paul was teaching the Gentiles to “forsake Moses”. Then James told Paul that in order to correct this misinformation he should demonstrate “that you yourself ALSO walk orderly and keep the Torah”. Which he did.

But that did not end Paul’s woes because then he was accused of taking a Gentile in to a part of the Temple which was exclusively for Jews. That earned him another beating, but he was arrested by the Roman soldiers which saved him from the beating, but also fulfilled the prophecy of Agabus referred to above.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Torah Reflections   Yom Kippur

Torah portions            Leviticus 16 : 1- 34   and

                                             Numbers 29 : 7 - 11

Haftarah portion       Isaiah 57 : 14  to 58 : 14

Listen to the Prophets

Leviticus 23 and Deuteronomy 16 have the commandments about annual observances of the “mo’edim”. (The Hebrew word for “appointed times”, which in turn is usually translated into English as “feasts”). These are times when God specified He would meet with His chosen ones.

Today, they are most often referred to as “Jewish Feasts”. That correctly describes the fact that they are observances remembered by Jews. But it is an incorrect understanding of the Scriptures.

When God gave these instructions to Moses, He carefully worded these ‘appointed times’ (mo’edim) as MY ‘mo’edim’. They may be characterized as times when God says, in effect, “I will be there to meet with you on these specific occasions”. Those who choose not to attend miss an opportunity of blessing through meeting with Him at His invitation.

The 10 days between the Feast of Trumpets and Yom Kippur are referred to as “the days of awe”. In Judaism, they are days of intraflection and reconciliation … putting things right.. putting things right with God and putting things right with those we live with and associate with on a daily basis. In fact the Scriptures clearly tell us that we cannot be right with God, and be at odds with each other (Matthew 5 : 24).

Those who have visited Israel at this time of year will know that everything stops on Yom Kippur. It is a day of fasting and reflection.( It is the reason why, in 1973, the Arab nations around Israel attacked them on that specific day. There is No Radio, No Television, No answering phones.. NOTHING goes on). The Scriptures declared that all the people have a day of solemn rest and strict Sabbath keeping. A day to “afflict your souls”.

It was the one day in every year, appointed by God, for the Chief Priest to enter the Holy of Holies of the Tabernacle and the Temple when they were functioning. The whole purpose of that visit by the Chief Priest was to ensure that he himself, and the Nation of people he represented, were made right with God in preparation for the year that lay ahead.

The awesome significance of this very special day is, regrettably, totally lost to the church. In addition to its special anointing by God, being set apart from all other days as it is, there is a unique event recorded in Revelation which we should all be acutely aware of. It is the day of the WHITE THRONE JUDGEMENT. It is represented for us today by the day of Atonement. It is a special day ‘to put things right’.

Revelation 20 : 11 – 15 describes that day of Judgment. It needs no comment from me. The judgement is to determine who is right with God, and who is not. It is there for everyone to read, but before you read it I caution you to read Revelation 22 : 18,19 first. Many ‘Christians’ today have never taken time to even read Revelation, let alone try to understand its message. It is a letter written by Yeshua Himself, or at least dictated by Him to John.

The climax of the whole letter, in fact the climax of the whole message of the Scriptures comes in the next festival of the Lord, the Feast of Tabernacles, which is why these “mo’edim” of the Lord are so important to celebrate, be part of, and to remember.

I am saddened that the modern Christian church, which is largely ignorant of the “mo’edim” of the Lord, has missed a blessing which God intended us to enjoy.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   47     

Torah portion                 Deuteronomy 32 : 1 - 52

Haftarah portion          Hosea  14 : 2 – 10  Micah 7 : 18 – 20

                                                Joel 2 : 15 - 27

Brit Hadashah               Acts 16 : 1  - 18 : 28

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

Paul and Barnabas had a disagreement about taking John Mark with them on, what turned out to be, Paul’s second missionary journey. So, Paul chose Silas as his companion and Barnabas took John Mark with him. Paul’s intent was to re-visit the places in Galatia where he and Barnabas had brought many to faith in Yeshua, in order to encourage them, and to continue teaching there. Passing through Derbe, they arrived in Lystra, where they met Timothy, a young man who was brought up as a Gentile even though his mother was Jewish. Now here is a revelation for those who do not have a “Hebraic” understanding of Paul. Read verse 3 carefully. “Paul took him (Timothy) and circumcised him”. IF Paul had been ‘converted’ from Judaism (as we are often taught) why on earth would he circumcise Timothy?   Selah. (ponder)

Well, of course, the answer is that Paul intended to have Timothy accompany him into the Synagogues and to partake in the teaching. No Gentile would be allowed to do that. (some time later, Paul actually left Timothy behind in Ephesus to pastor the “ekklesia” there) However, as we read about the detail of Paul’s teaching on this trip we find that his main goal, apart from bringing new people to faith in Yeshua, was to emphasize the teaching of the “letter to the Gentiles” which had been written by the Jerusalem Council. We are told that there was a daily increase in their numbers as they taught the people, both from the Scriptures and by making known the contents of the letter from the Jerusalem Council. What a blessing!

For reasons which we do not know, the Holy Spirit forbade Paul and Silas to teach in some of the places along their journey. Eventually, Paul, Silas, Timothy and possibly Luke came to Phillipi, a Roman city in Macedonia, north eastern Greece. It is likely that there were no Jews there, and certainly no Synagogue. Paul stayed there many days and established an “ekklesia” there of some ladies who met for prayer on the Sabbath Day near a river. Here we are introduced to Lydia, a seller of ‘purple’, and to a slave girl who had a ‘spirit of divination’, from which her masters made a lot of money! Paul cast the “spirit” out of the girl, and for his trouble received a severe beating and was put into prison. The Lord miraculously saved them from custody, caused the jailer and his household to come to faith in Yeshua, arranged a pardon and apology from the magistrates, and shared fellowship and hospitality at the home of Lydia. Then they moved on again.

Next stop was Thessalonica, where there was a Synagogue of the Jews. For three Sabbaths Paul reasoned with them about Yeshua from the Scriptures (we must not forget that the only Scriptures then were the Hebrew Scriptures of course) Some Jews and many Greeks joined the “ekklesia” in Thessalonica. Other Jews remained unconvinced, and out of jealousy stirred up a mob against them and eventually the “ekklesia” arranged for Paul and Silas to leave by night to go to Berea, a town about 70 Km away, still in Northern Greece. Of the Bereans, the Bible tells us that “they were more fair-minded than the Thessalonians because they searched the Scriptures daily” to check what Paul was teaching!!

That is possibly the best lesson to be gained from this ‘reflection’. To be a “Berean”. They were cautious, they were sceptical, they were suspicious, and they were FAIR. They actually searched the scriptures to verify for themselves what they were being told. (It is a lesson I learned some years ago. I put everything I had been taught in Sunday School and Church on the ‘metaphorical’ shelf. Then I took off that shelf those things which I personally verified from the Scriptures. There are still many things on that shelf!). I recommend it to you.

Paul left Berea alone. Silas and Timothy remained there until Paul sent for them. Athens first, with Paul’s famous sermon on Mars Hill. “to the unkown God”. Then Corinth, where he met up with Aquila and Priscilla who had recently been expelled from Rome by the Emperor Claudius .It was here in Corinth, having preached in the Synagogue for several weeks and gained many more adherents to the “ekklesia”, that Paul grew weary of the continuous opposition of the orthodox Jews. The last straw came when they blasphemed against Yeshua. Paul retorted “Your blood be on your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles”.

Paul remained there for another 18 months before moving on to Ephesus. The travelogue is exciting as Paul consistently preached salvation through the Sonship of Yeshua. Be a Berean, check it out.                 

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      46 

Torah portion                Deuteronomy 29 : 9  – 31 : 30

Haftarah portion         Isaiah  61 : 10 – 63 : 9

Brit Hadashah              Acts 14 : 1  - 15 : 41

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

​

As we follow the ministry of the Apostles Paul and Barnabas it makes interesting context to locate the various places on the maps in the back of your Bible. The general area of activity is known as Galatia, a large area of today’s central Turkey. There were obviously diaspora Jews living there, because the Apostles visited their Synagogues, seeking to teach the orthodox Jews about Yeshua. However, the populace in general were pagan Gentiles. It is also obvious from our reading that great division occurred between those who came to faith in Yeshua and those who did not. Very little has changed in that regard !! .(We know from Paul’s letter to the Galations that many of the Gentile population came to faith in Yeshua too, but they were harassed by the orthodox Jews to convert to Judaism in order to worship the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. A situation against which Paul fervently taught). Anyway, the orthodox Jews managed to somehow “poison the minds” of the general Gentile population against Paul and Barnabas. Never-the-less, they continued there a long time, and many signs and wonders were done among the people. But in spite of that, eventually, the situation turned violent, so Paul and Barnabas moved on.

About 30 Km south was the city of Lystra, their first stop. There is no mention of a Synagogue in Lystra, but they preached the gospel anyway, presumably in the open air. Listening intently to Paul was a man who had NEVER walked. Their eyes met, and instantly Paul was aware that the Holy Spirit had work to do in that place. “Stand up straight on your feet” Paul shouted. The man who had NEVER walked instantly leapt to his feet and began to walk! The result was more than Paul and Barnabas had counted on. The locals began to worship them as visiting ‘deities’. Shock, horror. (Note carefully the reaction of Paul and Barnabas here. They were almost beside themselves in deflecting ANY glory from themselves. Their attempts to heap praises on ‘the living God’, witnessing to His great power as Creator of the Universe caused the locals to venerate them more as His emissaries, and it was all they could do to prevent the locals offering sacrifices to them.)  I can only guess what temptation there is, on those whom God uses so mightily, to take some of that glory for oneself, albeit with a modicum of modesty!

But some Jews from Antioch and Iconium turned up. They managed to persuade the locals, who only recently were venerating Paul and Barnabas, to turn against them. Paul was stoned by the crowd, dragged out of the city and left for dead. The disciples of Lystra gathered round the prostrate Paul. Suddenly, he stood up as though nothing had happened and walked back into the city. “No weapon formed against you shall prosper” was a promise of God given to Isaiah. Hallelujah.

The next day, they left for the 80Km or so journey to Derbe, where they preached the gospel, made many disciples, and after a short stay retraced their steps back through Lystra and Iconium to Antioch. What a trip! Eventually they arrived back in Jerusalem and reported their success in bringing to faith many Gentile believers. The Jerusalem Council was aware from Peter’s encounter with Cornelius that God had made no distinction of grace against Gentiles, but there was a question in the Council regarding what should be expected of Gentiles who wished to fellowship with Jews in Jewish Synagogues.

They prepared the well-known “Letter to the Gentiles”, details of which are recorded in Acts 15:23-29. Many of us have been taught that this short list of basic instructions for Gentiles supersedes the Torah of Moses which applies to Jews. But we need to carefully consider exactly what the letter says, as well as the reasoning of the Council after the wording of the letter had been agreed.

Firstly, what was NOT necessary. Circumcision was not a prerequisite for partaking in fellowship with Messianic Jews. Secondly, what IS necessary. There are THREE non-negotiable requirements. Two have a direct bearing on the idolatrous pagan past of these proselytes. Eating food which had been offered idols, and sexual immorality which was a feature of many pagan festivals and rituals. Lastly to abstain from food not killed by ritually Kosher methods. That is food containing the blood of the animal, as in being strangled. BUT that is NOT all. Note carefully verse 21, which formed an important part of their conclusions in deciding what to put in the letter. They expected that the proselytes joining the “ekklesia” would, over time, learn the full extent of Torah as “Moses” would be read and preached in Synagogues in every city.  Didn’t Yeshua say “My yoke is easy and My burden is light”?           

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      45    

Torah portion                   Deuteronomy 26 : 1  – 29 : 8

Haftarah portion           Isaiah  60 : 1 – 22

Brit Hadashah                 Acts 11 : 1  - 13 : 52

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

Our reading this week opens with confirmation of the “Hebraic” nature and the true intent of God’s ‘sheet’ vision given to the Apostle Peter (and which we ‘reflected’ upon last week). It related to inclusive relationship with Gentiles. As Peter enlightened fellow Jews about his visit to, and dining with, Gentiles in Caesarea, they too became excited about the fact that God had graciously “granted to the Gentiles repentance to life”. Most of those reading this ‘reflection’ are direct beneficiaries of that grace today. Praise be to our God who does all things well.

But to emphasize the point, the ‘sheet’ vision was NOT about food!

In further emphasis, we are appraised of the fact that following the stoning death of Stephen, a great dispersion of “the ekklesia” (Messianic Jews) took place. That resulted in a situation of Messianic Jew teaching diaspora Orthodox Jew about Yeshua in Jewish Synagogues wherever they went. Additionally, there was a significant expansion of believers among Gentiles, especially in the city of Antioch (about 800Km north of Jerusalem).

When “the ekklesia” in Jerusalem heard about this Gentile awakening, they sent Barnabas there to teach truth to the Antioch “ekklesia”. He found ‘fertile ground’ because more and more people came to faith in Yeshua. Then Barnabas went off to Tarsus (about 250 Km away) to get the recently converted Sha’ul, and together, in Antioch, for the next twelve months, they joined the local “ekklesia” teaching and encouraging them. It was in Antioch that believers were first called “Christians”, but trust me when I tell you that, at that time, it was a term of derision which was coined by those who did not accept the truth about Yeshua’s deity.

Out of the Antioch “ekklesia” certain prophets arose. One of them, called Agabus, prophesied a worldwide famine. It came sometime between the mid forties and early fifties (which is when Claudius reigned in Rome). The faithful saints in Antioch determined to send relief to the brethren in Judea, which they entrusted Barnabas and Sha’ul to deliver. (Later, Rabbi Sha’ul would write “For if the Gentiles have been partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister to them in material things” Romans 15:27)  It could be that he was greatly moved by the actions of the Antioch “ekklesia” don’t you think? My mind also goes to the promise of God given to Abram in Genesis 12:3.

Before Barnabas and Sha’ul returned to Antioch, they celebrated Passover in Jerusalem. At that time King Herod was flexing his muscle against the believers. He had already killed James the brother of John, which pleased the hierarchy of the Jews. His clear intention was to deal similarly with Peter, but because it was Passover, he threw Peter in jail until Passover was ended. But God had other plans. He sent an Angel to rescue Peter. Then later, Herod overstepped the mark by exalting himself above God in the eyes of the people and he died. So it was that Barnabas and Sha’ul returned to Antioch, this time taking John Mark with them.

With the “ekklesia” at Antioch well served with teachers and prophets God spoke to them about releasing Barnabas and Sha’ul for the extensive work as itinerant evangelists. It seems that this was the point at which Rabbi Sha’ul began to be known as the Apostle Paul. (In 1 Cor 9:19-23 he takes time to explain how he presents himself as ‘becoming all things to all men’)  And so it is that we see for the first time Paul and Rabbi Sha’ul (the same person) begin to minister fearlessly and with great authority, in Synagogues and in the open air, to any and every audience he could find.

Have you ever wondered why, wherever he went, his first point of contact seemed to be the local Synagogue? And why he almost invariably was invited to speak there?  I have. Did he have some kind of ‘light’ shining on him wherever he went? I think not. The answer which occurs to me is that, even though we are never taught this in our churches, (at least I wasn’t) he was Rabbi Sha’ul. He maintained his Judaism all his life (At least until Acts 28!!) He probably dressed as a Rabbi, and of course, when he spoke, he spoke with authority and great knowledge. After all, he was trained by the Rabbi Gamaliel wasn’t he?

Much of the remainder of “Acts” deals with the ministry journeys and trials of the Apostle Paul, on which we will ‘reflect’ in the weeks ahead. I pray that you will come to appreciate, perhaps in a new way, the blessings which are ours resulting from the obedient, faithful, service of this Messianic Jew, Rabbi Sha’ul. (A Hebrew of the Hebrews!)

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections        44     

Torah portion                   Deuteronomy 21 : 10  – 25 : 19

Haftarah portion            Isaiah  54 : 1 – 10

Brit Hadashah                 Acts 9 : 1  - 10 : 48

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

​

This week, two passages of Scripture which are quite misunderstood by a majority of Christians. The task here being to provide the “Hebraic” understanding of these events, which differs from the usual conventional Christian teaching on these passages.  The first, in Chapter 9 relates to coming to faith of Rabbi Sha’ul. The second, in Chapter 10 relates Peter’s vision of the sheet with all manner of food on it.

That Rabbi Sha’ul was ‘converted’ on the Damascus Road is not an issue. We know what he was ‘converted’ from. He was an ardent practitioner of Rabbinic Judaism. They were Pharisees, described by Yeshua as ‘following the traditions of men’. But what was he ‘converted’ to? If you are like me, you will have been taught that he was ‘converted’ to Christianity (a new faith set apart from Judaism) and so he is considered the father of this new faith which is centred on Yeshua. As a result, the vast majority of Christians have become disciples of Rabbi Sha’ul (through their genuine misunderstanding) rather than disciples of Yeshua.   Selah. (which means take a moment to reflect on that).

We know that Sha’ul was a fervent persecutor of believers in Yeshua. He refers to them (v.2) as “the Way”, (and later in Acts 24 he adds that they were a ‘sect’ of Judaism of which he had become part!! A most significant confession by him given our normal understanding of his “Christianity”)  His mission to Damascus was to take captive anyone he could lay his hands upon who had become a believer in Yeshua.

Suddenly a ‘light shone around him from heaven’ ! He became blinded by that light and for three days he neither ate nor drank. His companions saw nothing but heard the voice that Sha’ul heard. The story is well known. What is usually missed however is the person God sent to minister to Sha’ul. Ananias was one of the believers. Fearful of Sha’ul because of his reputation, Ananias eventually went and announced to Sha’ul that he was to receive his sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.

It is noteworthy that Ananias and other disciples of Yeshua in Damascus spent ‘some days’ with Sha’ul, presumably teaching him about Yeshua. We also know that these men (see Acts 22:12) were ‘devout men according to the ‘Law’ (Torah). This is consistent with the statement by the Jerusalem Council in Acts 21:20 that upon coming to faith in Yeshua the believers were all ‘zealous for the Law’ (Torah).  So now we can answer the question about what was Sha’ul converted to! He was converted from Pharasaic Judaism to Messianic Judaism. And that, my dear friends, is not the same as the anti-semitic, anti Torah, Romanised Christianity, which is usually taught about the conversion experience of the highly esteemed Rabbi Sha’ul.

In Chapter 10 we have the account of Peter’s vision of the descending sheet displaying food. Again, to understand the “Hebraic” import of this vision we need to understand that ALL the early believers in Yeshua were Torah observant Jews and proselytes. They were adherents or converts to Messianic Judaism. They were “zealous for the Law” (Torah). Why? Because that was the unambiguous teaching of Yeshua. Peter, in particular, had spent three years in close company with The Master. Disciples are learners, imitators, copiers of their Master. They sought to be as much like Him as possible. He did not come to abolish Torah, but to make it full of meaning. That is the background.

Christians have been taught that this vision was given to Peter with the express purpose of superseding the dietary laws contained in the Torah (see Deuteronomy 14). That was NOT what Peter understood. Was Peter both confused and concerned by the vision? Yes he was.  Immediately after he had his ‘sheet’ vision he received a visit by men from Caesarea, sent by the gentile believer Cornelius ( on the instruction of an Angel by a vision) requesting that Peter visit him. But devout Jews did not visit with gentiles and certainly wouldn’t eat with them !!

“What God has cleansed you must not call common (or unclean)”

Those words of God in his ‘sheet’ vision slammed into his mind. Peter confirms this in verse 28. “But God has shown me that I should not call any man common or unclean.”  For Peter, the confusion of the ‘sheet’ vision was immediately resolved. It was NOT about food at all, It was about human relationships in the sight of a Holy God.

Dear friends, when Yeshua said “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets” He meant it. Trust Him on that. God will bless you as you study His word with a “Hebraic” understanding.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      43     

Torah portion                  Deuteronomy 16 : 18  – 21 : 9

Haftarah portion           Isaiah  51 : 12 – 52 : 12

Brit Hadashah                 Acts 6 : 1  - 8 : 40

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

​

The number of disciples was ‘multiplying’. To put the correct “Hebraic” understanding here, we must remember that, whilst it is now commonly taught that this relates to ‘church growth’ (and we mostly,  incorrectly, relate that to the building on the corner of our local High Street), it is in fact a growth of what is known today as Messianic Judaism ( ‘ekklesia’ in Greek). It was part and parcel of the local Synagogue. (The Apostle Paul would later describe them in Acts 24:14 as a sect of Judaism known as “The Way”). That community had begun to attract Gentiles into their number. And it was still in the era of “having all things in common”. Then dispute arose about a degree of favouritism to Jews in the “daily” food distribution.

The result was the appointment of ‘deacons’, charged with the daily responsibility of ensuring that the “ekklesia” were organised in an orderly manner, and with fairness to all its members.  The Apostles, the original 11 plus Matthias, giving themselves to the most important responsibility of prayer and teaching the Word. We are also told that following the appointment of these seven deacons “the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith”. Let us remind ourselves again that all this evangelism and spectacular growth took place within the boundaries of Judaism. Our foundations as believers is rooted and firmly grounded in Judaism. Gentiles were not excluded but were very much a minority group within the “ekklesia”. However, the deacons were also engaged in ministry duties and we are told that one of them, Stephen, “did great wonders and signs among the people”.

We are then introduced to the “Synagogue of the Freedmen (Libertines)” from which a small group of troublemakers arose. This Synagogue is believed to be a Greek speaking Synagogue comprising of mainly diaspora Hellenists who had made Aliya and sundry other Greek speaking proselytes. They conspired to bring false charges of blasphemy and false teaching against Stephen. They were certainly ‘anti-Christ’ by persuasion and determined to have nothing to do with Yeshua. Similar charges were later laid at the Apostle Paul’s feet. Specifically, the charge at that time being that he was teaching AGAINST the “Law of Moses”, the Torah, which, of course, he was NOT.

I find it interesting to see how much things have changed. Today the charge laid at the feet of Messianic Judaism (“the ekklesia”) is that they ARE teaching that the “law of Moses”,(the Torah), is alive and well and has never been abrogated. The REAL issue today is no different to that which was present in the days of Acts 6. It is what Yeshua described as “the traditions of men”, the teachings of Rabbinic Judaism which deny the deity of Messiah Yeshua.

As Stephen spoke in defence of his teaching, it was his charge against his accusers that they were not keeping the Torah as it had been revealed to them, by angels, and more recently by Yeshua, the living Torah, which “cut them to their heart”. In their rage they stoned Stephen to death. One of the witnesses, consenting to this action, was none other than a young Rabbi Sha’ul. He became a fervent activist in the persecution of the “ekklesia”. We are told that he “made havoc of the “ekklesia”” entering homes, and by the authority he was given by the ruling body, committed many to prison. But the hand of God was in this too, because this persecution caused the faithful to scatter across the land, and wherever they went, they preached the good news of the gospel of salvation in Yeshua.

One such was Philip. He went to the city of Samaria (not far from modern day Nablus, originally the biblical Shechem). He preached Messiah to them and using the gifts with which he was anointed he proclaimed healing to the sick and cast out demons from those possessed by unclean spirits. Thus he brought great joy to the city. One of the converts was a man, Simon, who had previously practised sorcery. BUT, Simon observed that by the laying on of hands, the apostles were able to impart supernatural gifts to others, so he sought to BUY that gift with the prospect of making money out of it! There is not enough money in the whole world to BUY anything from God. His gifting is freely preserved for those whom He chooses to anoint, but it is perfectly proper to ask God for such anointing. One is never left wondering whether or not that gift is present. Its evidence in a person’s life cannot be mistaken  ..  and neither can the counterfeit. God requires that He, and He alone, receives the glory for our gifting. By such is the Kingdom of God extended.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      42     

Torah portion                  Deuteronomy 11 : 26  – 16 : 17

Haftarah portion           Isaiah  54 : 11 – 55 : 5

Brit Hadashah                Acts 3 : 1  - 5 : 42

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Possibly the most exciting and certainly a most challenging passage of Scripture this week as we begin to learn of the extraordinary ministry of the disciples of Yeshua in the early days of their empowered lives. Talk about boldness? Fearless in their exploits. The prophet Daniel said “they that know their God shall be strong, and do great exploits” (Daniel 11:32) And the ‘Preacher’ said “whatever your hands find to do, do it with your might.” (Ecclesiastes 10:9) Well these men became living proof of the life of faith. Why? Because they KNEW their God.

A man, lame from birth, carried to the same spot each day to beg alms of those entering the Temple. Can you hear him? “Spare a mite sir?” How many times each day would those words have passed his lips? Eyes cast down not wanting to look at the faces of those who rejected him. How many people (like me!) hurried on without a glance? But on this day, Peter and John stopped. “look at us” Peter demanded. And a short time later, this elated man walked with them, leaping and praising God, into the Temple. They were soon surrounded by a large crowd. Only a short few weeks earlier Peter had denied even knowing Yeshua. Now, filled with the power of the Holy Spirit, he preached a message of repentance to the expectant crowd. What a change. It often amazes me, but it ought not to, that we barely recognize that his audience was entirely Jewish. For that reason Peter was able to show them, from the Scriptures how Yeshua was the fulfilment of God’s promise to raise up for them “a prophet like Moses”. He was, and He still is, the fulfilment of that promise. (“To the Jew first, and also to the Greek”)

If that were the end of their day witnessing to the love of Yeshua they would have thought they had a good day, wouldn’t they? But it was not. Because as they spoke to the large crowd assembled in Solomon’s Porch, the Captain of the Temple, no less, together some priests and Sadducees turned up. (Note here that the Sadducees do not believe in ‘resurrection’) They were incensed and threw Peter and John into jail!  Who says God is not in control? Most of us would say “How terrible”. But God WAS in control then, and He is in control now.

The very next day “their rulers, elders, scribes, Annas the High Priest, Caiaphas John, Alexander and all the family of the High Priest gathered to see ‘justice done’.”  But what they heard was the gospel of Yeshua, preached boldly, clearly and without compromise, and that in the presence of the man, now walking, who only one day earlier was crippled, begging in the Temple. The outcome was staggering in its manifestation. The text makes clear that they all ‘marvelled’ at what they heard. They were truly convinced that Peter and John had been with Yeshua in His resurrected form. BUT they thought their standing in the community was being threatened if they made that confession. So they chose their rank and status above the truth. Dear friends, can you see, as I can, that the same obstinacy prevails today? And that not only in the hierarchical community of Judaism. It is costly, in this life, to confess Yeshua as Lord. It cost these Apostles their very life later on, but it did not stop them from being fervent witnesses to the saving grace of God which was wrought by the death and resurrection of Yeshua.

The work of the Kingdom continued and those who were now enjoined to the “ekklesia” shared things in common. Several decided to sell such land possessions as they had and present the proceeds as gifts to their community. It was a voluntary act of love. There was no pressure upon anyone. BUT, we are told of a couple, Ananias and his wife Sapphira who also sold a land possession but only gave a portion of the proceeds to the community. There was nothing wrong in doing that, except that their offering was presented in a manner which portrayed that they were giving ALL the proceeds, as others had done. It was a devious, insincere, act on their part and the Apostle Peter was aware of their deception. He pronounced it to be “lying to God”. Ananias fell down dead, on the spot, before Peter.  Sapphira, his wife, unaware of this, turned up three hours later and she too confirmed by her declaration that she had co-conspired with Ananias to hold back part of the proceeds of the sale. She too dropped dead at the Apostle’s feet.

“It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God” Hebrews 10:31

May you find peace and joy in faithfully serving Him who alone is worthy of our praise. To Him be all the glory.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections         41     

Torah portion                        Deuteronomy 7 : 12  – 11 : 25

Haftarah portion                 Isaiah  49 : 14 – 51 : 3

Brit Hadashah                      Acts 1 : 1  - 2 : 47

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

​

We now ‘reflect’ on the account of events in the days following the ascension of Yeshua into heaven to be seated at the right hand of the Father. Luke tells us that this is “Volume 2” of that historical account, written for Theophilus. (Please refer to my Brit Hadashah ‘reflection’ Number 21 for more information on this matter). Luke begins with the dramatic scene, forty days after His crucifixion, as Yeshua ascends into heaven, watched by His disciples, up into the clouds and out of their sight. What an awesome and probably an even sad sight that must have been for them. Alone again, Yeshua gone from them for a second time.

But with their faith strengthened by the post resurrection encounters with Him, they had two more promises to encourage them. Firstly they were promised that they would receive “the power of the Holy Spirit”. And secondly that “this same Yeshua, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you have seen Him go into heaven”. That first promise was a mere ten days away. The second promise has been the bedrock of the hope of all believers from that day to this.

Six weeks earlier, Judas Iscariot had committed suicide. Using Psalm 109:8 as their guide, they decided that Judas’ place, as an overseer with them, should be filled by another. Then by means of the quite ordinary action of ‘casting lots’, Matthias was selected as his replacement. However, we should carefully note that this was no haphazard selection. They were diligent in seeking God in prayer, trusting His guidance. I suggest to you that this was not a ‘majority’ verdict. I believe it would have been a unanimous selection. And here is a lesson for us. Too often, in my experience, church groups are ‘democratic’ in their practices and ‘majority’ decisions are commonplace. Invariably this leads to elements of discontent, even division. When God is in control there will always be unanimity!! I respectfully counsel that it is better to wait until there is unanimity, rather than to proceed with major issues on split opinion!!

Ten days after Yeshua ascended into heaven brought them to one of God’s ‘appointed times’. Shavuot, Feast of Weeks, Pentecost. It is one of three ‘pilgrimage’ festivals, when all Jewish males were required to go up to Jerusalem (the other two being Passover and Tabernacles). Shavuot is always on ‘the first day of the week’, Sunday to gentiles (see Leviticus 23:16). Judaism traditionally considers this to be the exact date when God met Moses on the mountain to give him His Torah. (Exodus 19). It is certainly the time when God provided His disciples with the promised “power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you”. Since this was a pilgrimage festival, God’s timing was, as always impeccable. The city was filled with Jews from all over the diaspora (see list in verses 9-11). Now we should take note of some interesting parallels between the two ‘gifts’ which God visited upon these Jewish men.

In Exodus, God gave the people His Torah. His ‘instructions about living together in righteousness’. About living in a manner which was quite different to the nations around them when they would enter the land of promise several years later. In Acts 2, we see the gift of the Holy Spirit poured out, all the nationalities hearing the words of salvation in their own language. So powerful was the message Peter preached, that 3000 were added to their number in one day. And many more followed in days ahead. That is amazing. But we should take care not to diminish the message. It was not one of promised prosperity, of enhanced circumstances, of reduced hardship, of better living conditions. It was a message of the sacrificial death and miraculous resurrection of Yeshua. They spoke confidently because they had spent time with Him after that resurrection. They had, just ten days earlier, watched as He ascended into heaven. It was a bold message. It was a message of REPENTANCE. It was a message of baptism. It was a message of living righteously with each other. It was a message of living differently to how they had become accustomed. And it showed.

“And they continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine and fellowship”.  Less than 150 years ago, a new document (Didache .. means teaching) was discovered. Its full title is “The teachings of the twelve Jewish Apostles to the Gentiles”. It dates from the first century C.E. I commend it to you as an ancient resource. It is an expansion of the Acts 15 letter to the gentiles. But be warned, it may provide quite a challenge for a ‘traditional’ Christian believer today!                

Shabbat Shalom 

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      40

Torah portion                      Deuteronomy 3 : 23  – 7 : 11

Haftarah portion               Isaiah  40 : 1 – 26

Brit Hadashah                    John 20 : 1  - 21 : 25

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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“On the first day of the week …. while it was still dark.” In our understanding of days and dates that was very early on Sunday morning. The grave was empty (except for the two angels who spoke to Mary Magdalene). My personal belief is that Yeshua vacated that grave immediately after Shabbat, some hours earlier, but still at the very commencement of “the first day of the week”. That is consistent with His being in the grave for “three nights and three days” (which precludes a Good Friday crucifixion date!) as was the sign of the Prophet Jonah which He had told the Pharisees in Matthew 16:4.

To understand the significance of verses 9 and 10, we should understand that this Gospel account by John was written several years after the event. So he uses the phrase “For as yet”. We know that Psalm 16:10, for example, makes reference to Messiah not seeing corruption in Sheol (a resurrection promise) but evidently the disciples were not familiar with that being such. It would not be long before they understood everything.

Within a very short space of time, the same day in fact, Yeshua began to make Himself known to the other disciples. They were still in a state of shock, closed in a room, fearing for their lives, trying to make sense of everything, when suddenly Yeshau appeared before them. Must have been pretty scary eh? Over the course of the next 40 days, Yeshua appeared to over 500 people, some more than once. Thus He ensured that there were plenty of eyewitnesses to the fact that the recently dead Yeshua, was again very much alive. He still is!!

The third occasion that Yeshua met with His disciples after His resurrection was in their home territory of the Galilee. They had returned to their “day job”. Fishing. They were returning to their base, empty-handed, after a long night on the Lake. Yeshua, standing on the shore called out enquiring about their catch. “Absolutely nothing” they replied. “Put your net on the other side of the boat and you will catch some fish” Yeshua said.   The net was suddenly filled with 153 fish. Amazing. Immediately Peter recognized the sign. It was the Lord. We have an account in Luke 5 of an earlier occasion when Yeshua began to call these fishermen to follow Him. It was an amazing catch of fish, after a night when they had caught nothing, that got their first attention. There is an interesting note regarding the exact number of fish that were caught that morning. It verifies the fact that John was an eyewitness to this event. In addition, the fact that they ate some fish for breakfast verifies that Yeshua was there in bodily form. This was not a mirage. The disciples were given absolute verification of the bodily resurrection of Yeshua, a matter for which they would ultimately risk, and even lose, their own lives in the telling.

Then, after breakfast, we have the account of Yeshua’s questioning of Peter. If you are inquisitive, like me, you will be wondering why Yeshua persisted three times to ask Peter the same question! Well, our English translations do not do this encounter justice, because there are two different words used in the Greek for the English word “love”. In the first two questions, Yeshua used the word “agapeo” (unconditional love). This is the same love which Yeshua Himself exhibited when He voluntarily submitted Himself to that painful degrading death at Calvary. On each of these first two occasions Peter responded with the word “phileo” (love as between friends). On the third question, both Yeshua and Peter use “phileo”.  It seemed that Yeshua was seeking the response which Peter had exhibited at the time before Yeshua was arrested. The time when Yeshua told him that before the ‘cock crowed’ Peter would have denied Yeshua three times. And he did. Verse 18 indicates the type of death which Peter would eventually suffer for his discipleship.

Then finally, Yeshua again, as on the first time they had met, said “Follow Me”. The Apostle John immediately followed Yeshua. Seeing this, Peter, following the disclosure in verse 18,  was curious to know what was to become of John. Yeshua’s answer is one of which we should all take note. “What is that to you?” In other words, “You do as I tell you, it is not your concern what I tell others!” Nothing has changed has it?

We are called to discipleship as individuals. Each one of us is required to make a personal choice as to whether we “Follow Him” or not. That decision cannot be made by proxy. So the message given to Peter applies equally to us when we hear that call. Just be obedient to your own calling. Do that which God reveals to you. Be diligent in searching out God’s will for your life. The rest will fall into place.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      39  

Torah portion                 Deuteronomy 1 : 1  – 3 : 22

Haftarah portion          Isaiah  1 : 1 – 27

Brit Hadashah               John 18 : 1  - 19 : 42

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

​

So we enter the last day of Yeshua’s earthly mission, the restoration of “the lost sheep of the house of Israel” to be a light to the nations. So the final chapter began to unfold. He went, with His disciples, to the Garden of Gethsemane in the Kidron Valley between the Temple and the Mount of Olives. Every Christian who has ever visited modern day Israel will have spent time there, pondering, praying and remembering.

It was dark, the very early hours of the morning, lanterns and torches, with weapons drawn, a detachment of soldiers, led by Judas Iscariot, came to the place where Yeshua was. Following them were officers from the office of the Chief Priest and the Pharisees, Quite a crowd. But they were expected. So Yeshua stepped forward. “Whom are you seeking?”  They said they were looking for Yeshua of Nazareth. He declared “I am He”. Thus establishing His identity as the Son of God, consistent with His earlier statements about Himself, (see John 14:6 and other places) and probably for the Pharisees benefit.  They were astonished, even fearful, as they retreated and fell to the ground. Then He asked again, “Whom are you seeking?”  The main reason for this second question was to clearly establish that they were looking ONLY for Him, and that His disciples were not in trouble and would not be taken. This was consistent with His prayer in John 17:12, that none of those the Father had given to Him would be lost.

The impetuous Peter, seeking to defend His Master, cut off the ear of Malchus, one of the servants of the high priest, which, Luke tells us, Yeshua immediately restored. Then Yeshua, again emphasizing the voluntary nature of His death on a Roman cross which would shortly follow, reminded His disciples that there were legions available for His defence if that were considered necessary. So Yeshua was arrested, bound, and eventually taken to the high priest, the instigator of the false charges of which He was accused.

What followed His arrest, was a series of “trials”. Examinations of sorts, designed to establish His guilt. It was during these “trials” that Peter denied His association with Yeshua. I often wonder how I might have behaved in Peter’s position, faced, as he was, with the real prospect of losing his own life because of that association!! How about you? It is worth pondering the thought. One which could even be a real faith strengthener. We should all consider the possibility that we might have to face that very situation one day. Many Christians today (like the Coptic Christians in Egypt) are called upon to make such a declaration. It is not hypothetical, it is very real.

The ‘examinations’, before Annas, Caiaphas and eventually Pilate, who pronounced that he could find NO fault in Him. Without blemish. Just like the Passover Lamb was to be! And which He voluntarily became for our sakes.

John chapter 19, contains the harrowing account of Yeshua’s last hours. It is horrible. I have a friend who was asked to read this chapter one Friday morning in the church of which I was then a member. He was unable to read beyond verse 3, breaking down in uncontrollable sobbing. That such wanton cruelty and injustice could be perpetrated on an innocent man was too much to contemplate. And to think that it was voluntarily accepted by Him for my sake! .. and yours!!

But when we get to John 19:30, we read those triumphant words of Yeshua. “It is finished”. We could paraphrase that into modern idiom. “Mission accomplished”. The blood of the sacrifice, acceptable to the Father, had been shed. The debt of sinful man fully paid. But still there were chapters to be written. Remember Yeshua’s prayer in John 17:20. That sacrifice was valid ONLY for those who believe. Think about that. It is available to ALL, but few there be who accept it. Tragic.

My final ‘reflection’ relates to the extremely “Hebraic” nature of this event. It was the restoration of the “lost sheep of the house of Israel” which was finished on that Roman Cross. God had promised Abram in Genesis 12 : 3 that through him “all the families of the earth shall be blessed”. ALL the early believers were Jewish. They were the ones who became the evangelists. They were the ones who kept “the Word” and preserved it in written form. They were the ones through whom we, centuries later, are privileged to have knowledge of Him who died. God entrusted His written word to the Jews. His own “special treasure”.

The Apostle Paul has an admonition for we who are Gentiles in Romans 15. Read it. And take special note of verse 27.    

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections     38    

Torah portion                Numbers 30 : 2  – 36 : 13

Haftarah portion        Jeremiah  2 : 4 – 28 and 3 : 4

Brit Hadashah             John 17 : 1  - 26

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

​

The Lord’s Prayer.

In Luke 11 we have an account of the disciples of Yeshua asking Him to teach them how to pray. What followed is the most memorised passage of Scripture in the whole Bible. It used to be compulsory learning in schools and churches in every Christian country. It is referred to as “The Lord’s Prayer”, but is in fact the prayer the Lord taught others to pray.

Our Scripture reading today contains the most intimate conversation of Yeshua with His Father. It is the prayer that He prayed in the hours before His crucifixion. “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You.” How personal is that? Yeshua had been teaching His disciples about loving one another, staying close, supporting and caring for each other. In this opening greeting, so personal and so unifying, He clearly illustrates the love and ‘Oneness’ of His relationship with His Father. The relationship He desires that we too have with the Father, through Him.

“I have finished the work which You have given Me to do.” That speaks of a contentment that the task had been accomplished. It speaks of the willing and voluntary nature of the sacrificial death He was about to face. The Jews have been charged as “Christ killers” for centuries. But that charge cannot be supported in the light of the prayer we see in our passage today. God uses means to accomplish His purposes which often baffle us, and His purposes may be hindered, but are never thwarted, by man.

“For I have given to them the words which You have given Me; and they have received them … and they have believed that You sent Me”

John 1:1 tells us about ‘the beginning’. Yeshua was in ‘the beginning’. The Hebrew Scriptures record “the words” given from ‘the beginning’. At the time of this prayer there were NO other words of Scripture were there? Everything written in the Apostolic Scriptures came later, many years later. So Yeshua is confirming to His Father in heaven, that He has faithfully taught those whom the Father had given Him, the words from ‘the beginning’. (It is worth noting that Yeshua said on two occasions, recorded in Matthew 10 and 15 that His mission on earth was ‘to the lost sheep of the house of Israel’)  So what I see here is that Yeshua is confirming to His Father that He had brought the pure truth of Torah, by His sinless life on earth, and His teaching, in place of the burdensome yoke of Pharasaic Judaism (the traditions of men He called them) which had blinded the people (causing them to become lost) to the truth of God’s incredible love for the people He has chosen as His special treasure! Salvation is not by works of conformity, but by the merciful grace of Almighty God in sending His only Son, as the teacher, which culminated in His selfless death on a Roman cross, to redeem sinful men.

“I pray for them. I do not pray for the world, but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours”. Then later, “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who WILL believe in Me through their word”. Isn’t that about the most amazing thing you could imagine? Before Yeshua was crucified on that Roman cross, He prayed for YOU and ME. He has brought our names before the Creator of the Universe, every last one of us who are believers in Him! But what was it that He prayed? That we ALL, believers in Him, should be ONE, so that “the world may believe that You sent Me.”

Dear friends, what a challenge that should be to us today. Through our unity in Yeshua, the world would recognize Him as the Son of God. When the Emperor Constantine convened the Council of Nicaea in 324 C.E. it had a goal of officially cutting off the gentile believers in Yeshua from their Hebrew roots. Or at least from Judaism, where those roots lie. The result has been a fragmentation of purpose and unity within the “church”. Firstly through errant teaching within the Roman Catholic Church, then subsequent to the days of Martin Luther in 1517, a proliferation of gentile denominational allegiances which are probably more divisive than unifying.

The prayer of Yeshua, the Lord’s Prayer, was that we be ONE, as He and the Father are One. It behoves us all to get on our knees in prayer, asking Almighty God to forgive us for our waywardness. To show us again the way of unity in Him. To discover again “the words” which Yeshua came to illuminate from ‘the beginning’. And to order our lives in accord with His commandments, which have never changed!    

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      37     

Torah portion                 Numbers 25 : 10  – 30 : 1

Haftarah portion         Jeremiah  1 : 1 – 2 : 3

Brit Hadashah               John 15 : 1  - 17 : 26

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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One of the best known analogies in the Scriptures. “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.” (we are the branches of course) Here a knowledge of the Hebraic meaning of this phrase sheds a very different light than that which most Bibles actually say! That it is an agricultural analogy is obvious. It is in the next verse that the Hebraic understanding sheds new light.

Earlier, in John 6:37 we are given Yeshua’s promise that “the one who comes to Me I will in no wise cast out”. Unequivocal. Solid. Precious. But the translators use of “takes away” in relation to branches that do not bear fruit is the issue. The Greek word here is “airo”. It has a different meaning. Strongs Greek lexicon offers “raise, take up, lift” as the correct meaning of the word. Note here that this Scripture is referring to “branches in ME”. (Ones we have been assured will in no wise be cast out!) Now, the audience, His disciples, Jewish men, clearly understood the analogy. A vine branch which creeps along the ground does not bear fruit. The vinedresser, in those days, would carefully place stones under those trailing vine branches to “raise, take up, lift” them so that they would bear fruit. It is the gentle care of the vinedresser to “raise, take up, lift” them which assured the fruit bearing.

Now here is the lesson for us. We are told here that “the branch cannot bear fruit of itself”. So rather than struggle in an attempt to bear fruit in fear of being ‘taken away’, we should “abide in the vine”, allow ourselves to be ‘raised, taken up, lifted’ by the vinedresser so that we may bear the fruit which He desires in us. Then, as we progress in our ‘fruit bearing’ He prunes us so that we may bear more fruit, even much fruit. The question then arises “How do we abide in the vine?” By reading His word, paying close attention to His word, by His counsel in our times of prayer, by His encouragement through wise words of trusted disciples. By seeking Him.

The crunch comes in verse 6 of this reading. “If anyone does NOT abide in Me. He is cast out as a branch and is withered” The Apostle Paul made reference to this in Romans 11. In his analogy of the Olive Tree he referred to branches ‘broken off’ because of unbelief. Make no mistake here. Salvation is the free gift of a loving merciful God, but it is not a ticket to live as you please. It is a call to bear fruit. And those who truly put their trust in Him are not broken off because He “raises, takes up, lifts” them to bear fruit.

The teaching continues. “If you keep My commandments, you WILL abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love”. Why did Yeshua tell them this? “that your joy may be full”. And still many of us are taught today that “Jesus kept all the commandments, so we do not have to!!!” Yeshua did not teach that!

He taught about living fruitful lives to His glory. And Yeshua told His disciples just what was required of them after He leaves them. It is His word. I did not write it, I just ‘reflect’ upon it here. It is clear, but many of us still find very inventive ways to avoid ‘keeping His commandments’ in exactly the same way that the Israelites did and became ‘the lost sheep of the house of Israel’. Finding them was the very reason for Yeshua’s mission on earth.(Matthew 10 and 15)

This passage of Scripture is worthy of our close attention. Speaking to His disciples Yeshua said “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit”. But then He spent time telling them that it was not going to be easy. They were carefully chosen, as you have been. Being chosen by God comes with responsibilities. Remember what the Apostle Paul told the church at Corinth. “Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not our own? For you were bought at a price; therefor glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s”. And isn’t that a word for today? An age when the very foundations of our faith are being constantly challenged by those in our government and in our schools.    But we are not left alone. Yeshua promised them, and we have seen that promise fulfilled, that when He left them, upon His return to be with His Father, He would send “a Helper”. One whom we identify as the Holy Spirit of God, the Spirit of truth. But that Helper is not an enforcer. He is a Comforter. A Guide. One who points the way to Yeshua, our Saviour. Be blessed as you ponder what He is saying to us through this most valuable Scripture passage as we allow ourselves to be ‘raised, taken up, and lifted’ so that we may become abundant fruit bearers in His name.      

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      36

Torah portion                   Numbers 22 : 2  – 25 : 9

Haftarah portion            Micah  5 : 6 – 6 : 8

Brit Hadashah                 John 13 : 1 - 14 : 31

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Last week we arrived at a point where Yeshua rode into Jerusalem on a donkey’s colt triumphant, but for the purpose of being ‘examined’ in many ways and declared “without blemish’ by the Roman authorities. The confirmation of His role and purpose as the Passover Lamb. The other gospel accounts move to the trial, scourging and crucifixion of Yeshua. But the Apostle John is different. Before moving to that point, John enlightens us to a change in Yeshua’s ministry from public proclamation to private teaching of His disciples as He spends His last hours with them. It is rich in content for all who are His disciples today.

Our passage begins with an act of humble service to His followers. He washed their feet. That was not an uncommon practise in those days, but it was normally a service provided by someone of lowly rank in the household of the master. Some Christian denominations continue with this ritual as an act of humility today in addition to the more commonly celebrated ‘communion’ ritual.

The specifics are there for each one to read and to gain from it that which is revealed by the Holy Spirit of God. But the message which Yeshua was teaching was universal. “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me”  Yeshua said to Simon Peter. He says the same to everyone who reads it. He was referring to the spiritual cleansing that needs to happen in order to enjoy fellowship in Him. That fellowship of salvation is ONLY for those who have willingly submitted themselves to the “washing”, the “cleansing” which was wrought by the shedding of His blood for remission of sin.

There are, or there should be, resultant differences in behaviour and attitude in such persons. Yeshua illustrated this in the very act of washing the disciples feet. Humility. Much later, the Apostle Paul, writing to the church at Philippi said “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself”  Oowwch!!!

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” So what was NEW about this commandment? A very similar commandment was given to Moses on the mountain. Leviticus 19:18 says in part “you shall love your neighbour as yourself”.  But Yeshua adds the words “as I have loved you”. Friends, the difference may seem small, but it is different. The difference in this statement would shortly be obvious to them, even though that ultimate sacrifice made by Yeshua had not yet taken place. But that is not true for us. We have the record, no speculation needed. It is a love which knows no bounds or limitation. As I write this ‘reflection’ I am so very conscious that my journey in faith still has a long way to go.

“I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”  One of the great sadness’s of life is to see how many people have absolutely no regard for God, and yet are convinced that they are “living as good a life as any Christian” (and they are) and will go to heaven. Most of the “Christian” nations of the world are seeing an erosion of Christian morality in their governments. It is easy to mock, and even to ridicule Christian faith. Christianity is being ‘sidelined’. BUT all of that takes no account of this clear teaching of Yeshua. It is unequivocal. It is uncompromising. It is fearful. And it is true.

Then finally, for this ‘reflection’, more words which fly right over the heads of the vast majority of Christians. My Bible (NKJV) says “If you love Me, keep My commandments” It reads as a commandment in itself. It’s a sort of “don’t argue” statement. However, the original Greek manuscripts from which this translation comes says something a little bit different. It says “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” It is something which will be evident in our lives. It’s not optional. Let us remind ourselves here that the same Person who spoke those words, the One who would shortly carry a Roman cross up the hill to Calvary was He who spoke those commandments ( instructions for righteous living called  Torah) to Moses on the mountain. He was addressing His Jewish disciples. They knew exactly what He was talking about.

Understanding the Hebraic nature of these writings should give us a better understanding of what discipleship of Yeshau involves.

May we gain Godly wisdom to understand the message contained in these insightful teachings of the Master as He prepared to shed His precious blood that we might receive His salvation.    

Shabbat Shalom 

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections        35  

Torah portion                      Numbers 18 : 1  – 22 : 1

Haftarah portion              Judges  11 : 1 – 33

Brit Hadashah                   John 11 : 1  - 12 : 50

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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A little background here! Yeshua and His disciples were down in the region of Qumran in the Jordan Valley. Probably about 30 Km from Bethany, and uphill all the way! They were there because we learned in John 10 that the Jews had asked Him to tell them plainly whether or not He was their Messiah. (they were looking for the strong man who would deliver them from the Roman occupation and the oppression that came with it). His answer infuriated them.  “I and My Father are One”. He was saying “Yes I am your Messiah and the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is My Father. It is He who has sent Me. I am in Him, and He is in Me”. (They had earlier asked for a sign, and in Matthew 12 and 16 He gave them the sign of the Prophet Jonah) At that they took up stones to kill Him because His answer was received as blasphemous. So He fled with His disciples from Jerusalem to the Jordan Valley.

Our reading today opens with news that His friend Lazarus had died, and by the time Yeshua got there Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. He was as dead as dead could be! The sisters, Martha and Miriam were grief stricken at the loss of their brother. And Yeshua wept with them! Then, reinforcing His identity as the Son of Almighty God before those present (the very thing that had caused Him to flee from Jerusalem some days earlier) He called the very dead Lazarus to come out of the tomb. It is a well-known event, which resulted in many of those present joining the ranks of believers. But the sceptics (there are always sceptics aren’t there?) went and told the Pharisees. What they had seen was beyond dispute, but the religious leaders saw it as yet another challenge to their own authority. Incredible. So what did they do? They conspired, not only to do away with Yeshua, but to get rid of Lazarus too!

John chapter 12 gives the clue to the timeline of events during the last week Yeshua spent on this earth. By my calculation it starts on the sixth day of the week (a Friday by our calendar). On Sunday (universally known as Palm Sunday in our calendar) Yeshua rode in triumph on a donkey’s colt down the hill to the garden of Gethsemane. Spending the next four days being ‘examined’ by various authorities and found to be ‘without blemish’ (the prime qualification required of the Passover Lamb). Crucified on Wednesday afternoon, in the grave for the three full nights and three full days, and resurrected after sundown on the sixth day of the week (at the very commencement of Sunday, which is Saturday night in our calendar). Now it is not a ‘hanging offence’ to disagree with my timeline, but it is the only one which I find consistent with Yeshua’s sign, given to the Pharisees, which He called the ‘sign of the Prophet Jonah’. If that ‘sign’ were not fulfilled (which a Good Friday crucifixion does not) then the Pharisees would have another reason to reject Him as the Son of God, and His disciples would have had as much difficulty explaining it as we do today!

But in our passage, Yeshua fulfils the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 by riding on a donkey’s colt. Perhaps a bit of a disappointment to the crowds of people who cried out the words of Psalm 118 “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord” as they welcomed their long awaited Messiah whom they expected would rid them of Roman oppression.

It is our great privilege to know that His mission was much greater than eliminating Roman oppression. And in less than two months, many thousands of them would know it too. But Yeshua had to teach them the unthinkable. He was there to be put to death.

“The hour has come that the Son of Man should be glorified” 

“.. a grain of wheat which falls into the ground and dies, produces much fruit”          

 “.. for this purpose I came to this hour. Father, glorify Your name”.  

“And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to myself” 

“While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become ‘sons of light’”.  

 “I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness”.

Our reading opened with Yeshua declaring that “I and My Father are One” It got Him into big strife with the religious leaders in the community. We end our ‘reflection’ re-iterating the truth of that confession. Reminding ourselves that what began there as an act of human injustice, has become, in our lifetime, the beacon of hope for our world. In fact the ONLY hope. We put our trust in Him who died, or we remain in darkness.

Shabbat Shalom 

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      34

Torah portion                Numbers 16 : 1  – 18 : 32

Haftarah portion         Isaiah  66 : 1 – 24

Brit Hadashah              John 8 : 1  - 10 : 42

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Yeshua was teaching a crowd of people in the Temple early one morning when the Scribes and Pharisees brought a sinful woman to Him. They announced that she had broken the Law of Moses by adultery. They said that Moses Law clearly specified the punishment but “what do You think we should do?”  Here was an opportunity to trap Him into giving an answer which would condemn Him whichever course He took.

To confirm the punishment contained in the Torah would provide them an opportunity to charge Him with teaching against the laws of the land, Roman Law. To affirm Roman Law would provide opportunity for them to charge Him with not upholding Torah. Condemned either way. But Yeshua stooped to the ground and wrote something in the dust. What was it that He wrote there? Whatever it was had a silencing effect on all who stood with rocks in their hands. There are a number of speculative opinions available about what was written in the dust that day. Yeshua had just the previous day in the Temple, at the time of the Water Libation ceremony, declaring that it spoke of Himself as providing “living water” to all who would ask Him. So did He write Jeremiah 17:13 in the dust?  A sharp reminder to these religious men that they had themselves forsaken the very God they professed to worship. Did He write Hosea 4:14 there, reminding them of the overt responsibility of men in adultery? Did He write specific sins of the accusers, which they previously thought were secret? Whatever was written in the dust ‘convicted their conscience’. What would Yeshua have written in the dust that would have made me put down my rock and slink off in shame? That stuff that I think is a watertight secret? Then to know that He knows. Things for which I have never sought His forgiveness. Take a moment to put things right with Him. Then put down your rock!! Yeshua forgave the woman, told her ‘sin no more’ and sent her to get on with her life. Anyone of us can experience that loving forgiveness, but it requires an encounter with Him who alone has the power to forgive our sin.

Immediately following this incident in our text Yeshua announced the next I AM (the second of seven in John’s gospel). I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. The context, in the Temple, where the area was lit by the Golden Menora, kept alight by the careful continuous attention of the Priests. It was a focal point of gathering of the people. People who were familiar with the Scriptures. They knew that King David had written in Psalm 119 that the Torah was a “lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 118:105). And here was Yeshua declaring that He is the “light of the world”. He is telling them that He is the ‘living Torah of God’. The Temple Menorah, important to them as it was, became a symbol of the light that His teaching brought to them. As symbolic as the Water Libation ceremony was to His provision of a continuous stream of living water from which they would never again experience thirst. As symbolic as the Bread of life represented by His own presence among them.

It would be much later, after His death on a Roman Cross, that they would come to appreciate the import of His “I AM” words. But what followed was a profound conversation about their status as “sons of Abraham”. It is a conversation that involves everyone who reads this ‘refection’!! At its heart is the question “Who, exactly, is a ‘son of Abraham?’” Because to be a ‘son of Abraham’ is to follow the actions of Abraham. To do what Abraham did.  That they were physical descendants of Abraham is not in question. But Abraham believed God, and that was counted to him as righteousness. The Pharisees did NOT believe that Yeshua was of the Father. They even accused Him of being demon possessed. Yeshua told them bluntly that they were NOT ‘sons of Abraham’ spiritually because they rejected Him. He went further. Because they were not ‘sons of Abraham’ they were ‘sons of the devil’.

Now we dare not mince words here because this is an exceptionally important lesson. Yeshua is saying clearly that there are TWO families on this earth. One is the family of Abraham and the other is the family of the devil. No-one can belong to both families. God’s family is the family of Abraham. Those in that family LOVE the things of God. His word. His teaching. His associates as fellow family members. The DOERS of His word. And anyone NOT in Abraham’s family belongs to the other family. Yeshua tells us here that this other family includes many members who are quite religious, but who do not accept the Son of the Father and His teachings. It is a salutary warning to those who may be regular church attendees, but are still not in the family of Abraham.

Take time to ask the Lord to show you how you can be sure that you are indeed a member of the family of Abraham.   

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      33  

Torah portion                   Numbers 13 : 1  – 15 : 41

Haftarah portion            Joshua  2 : 1 – 24

Brit Hadashah                 John 5 : 1  - 7 : 52

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Yeshua travelled to Jerusalem for one of the festivals. We are not told which one. Commentators are divided in opinion about this but it has no bearing on the events anyway. The pools of Bethesda, in the present day Muslim quarter of the Old City, today many metres below the present paved surface, close to the Church of St. Anne (famous because of its amazing acoustic qualities) is a ‘must see’ for visitors to Jerusalem. The place where Yeshua again provoked the Pharisees to anger, not just because the paralytic man was healed on the Sabbath, but this time because the man was told to ‘take up his bed and walk’!! (carrying the bed was considered ‘work’ by the Rabbinate, therefore forbidden on the Sabbath). Then to compound matters Yeshua openly declared to them that He and the Father were one, a confession which they regarded as treasonable. (Also one which Jews today view with utter contempt. But before we condemn Jews out of hand for this, we should remind ourselves that ‘the Jesus’ with which Jews have been confronted for centuries,  fits perfectly into the mould of a false prophet such as is described in Deuteronomy 13. We know that He is NOT, of course, but that is how the ‘church’ has portrayed Him to Jews!!  One who takes them away from the commandments of Moses.)

The defining statement in this exchange with the Pharisees comes right at the end of John 5. Yeshua told them that Moses had written about Him! He clearly identified Himself there as “the promised prophet like Moses”. Take time to refresh your memory. Read Deuteronomy 18:15-19. And if you have an interest in the judgement of self-proclaimed prophets read to the end of the chapter!

Chapter 6 of our reading finds Yeshua back in the Galilee. A ‘great multitude’ followed Him. John takes the trouble of informing us that Passover was near at hand. I am left wondering about this.  In the normal course, in obedience to the Torah commandment, all Jewish men (including Yeshua and His disciples) would be close to Jerusalem for this festival. As I ponder this I find myself speculating that Yeshua had become such an attraction, and the text provides evidence of this, mainly because people were desperate to know if He really was the longed for Messiah, the “prophet like Moses”, (the ‘strong man’ who in the manner of Moses and the Egyptians, would deliver them from Roman oppresion), and that could have delayed their journey to Jerusalem. We will never know. But what we do know is that Yeshua performed a Messianic miracle before their eyes. He fed them. The multiplication of the five small loaves (and two small fish). Immediately (see John 6:15) the crowd had seen enough. They sought to forcibly take Him and proclaim His kingship. They would have willingly followed Him into battle to defeat the Romans. But that was never part of God’s plan was it?  Yeshua was building a “Temple” not made with hands. And what did the prophet Zechariah say? “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says he Lord of hosts.”  (Referring there to the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem by Zerubbabel 500 years earlier).

Continuing the theme of the miraculous provision of bread, Yeshua pressed the point with His disciples. They remembered the provision of “manna” in Moses day, but He declared that it was not Moses who provided the bread, but YHWH Elohim. And it is the same YHWH Elohim who multiplied the 5 small loaves. But there was more. As He identified Himself yet again as working under the complete authority and guidance of the Father, He made the first of His seven I AM statements. It is profound. It is the very essence of eternal life in Him. Their forefathers ate “manna’ in the wilderness, but they eventually died. Everyone dies. But Yeshua declared I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE. Those who partake of the bread He offers will be saved from the death which follows the White Throne Judgment of the Father. They are ones who will be present at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. (Read Revelation 20 for a fuller account of this awesome encounter destined for everyone, yes all of us!).

Chapter 7 relates an account of a major feature of the Feast of Tabenacles. The water libation ceremony. A joyous daily ritual when water from the Gihon Spring, channelled into the Pool of Siloam via Hezekiah’s tunnel was carried into the Temple and poured over the Altar. Yeshua likened Himself to that “living water” which would never cease to flow. So much to learn about Hebraic significance in this passage of Scripture. Be blessed as you search it out.  It is worth it. 

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections     32     

Torah portion                  Numbers 8 : 1  – 12 : 16

Haftarah portion           Zechariah  2 : 14 – 4 : 7

Brit Hadashah                 John 2 : 1  - 4 : 54

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Commentators have a wide range of opinion regarding the timing of the wedding at Cana of Galilee! The third day. If it has significance it is lost to most of us. I think it was a Tuesday!! But maybe the wedding festival lasted several days, and by the third day all the wine was gone! In any event, what followed was quite significant because it is the first miracle of Yeshua recorded by John. Upwards of 120 gallons of water turned into best quality wine. That is the recorded fact, but in the story the most significant element of this miracle comes from the mouth of Miriam, Yeshua’s mother. “Whatever He says to you, do it”.

We are only five verses into our ‘reflection’ and we are given the most valuable lesson any of us could ever have. And that from the heart of the person who knew Him best. His mother. The servants at the wedding were obedient to that which Yeshua said, and witnessed an amazing miracle. Who knows what God has in store for those who just take Him at His word?  Just to listen to His Word and do it.   Selah!

There are two accounts in Scripture about Yeshua being angered by the scene He encountered in the Temple in Jerusalem. John tells about the first when Yeshua visited the Temple for Passover early in His ministry. The other gospel writers comment on the second when Yeshua visited the Temple on His final visit to Jerusalem in the year He was crucified. It seems that Yeshua was appalled by the concept of a place of Worship being turned into a commercial enterprise. Perhaps another lesson from this passage of Scripture for those who want to learn.

During that visit to Jerusalem, there were many who believed in Him because of the signs which He did among them. But Yeshua did not commit Himself to them because He discerned that their motive was not right. In essence I think that means that because He is able to discern the heart He could see that there was no change taking place. It was a mental assent rather than a repentant spirit. Another lesson. How often today do we hear a gospel of repentance preached?  It is more often the case that we hear a prosperity gospel “Come to Jesus and all your problems will be solved, financial, emotional, and practical”. So there are those who believe because of what they can see Him doing for them, not because He teaches that those who belong to Him WILL show it in a change of lifestyle. A repentant ‘turning around’.

A high ranking Pharisee called Nicodemus found this out at first hand. “You must be born again” he was told. Then the most famous Scripture in our Bible. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes IN Him should not perish, but have eternal life”. Followed by :- “But he who DOES the truth comes to the light, that his DEEDS may be clearly seen, that they have been done by God”.

Can you see that Yeshua is clearly teaching that when we put our trust in Him, IT SHOWS.? It makes a difference in how we live. The Apostle James stated it even more clearly. “Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works” James 2 : 18  This is NOT salvation BY works, but works BECAUSE of salvation.

Yeshua had a most fascinating encounter with the Samaritan woman at a well. He asked her to draw Him some water from the well. “If you knew who it was that asked for the water, you would have asked Me to give you water” He said, “because if you drink the water that I give you, you will never thirst again!”. The story is well known and He shocked the woman by telling her things about her private life which illustrated that He was a Prophet. But as the conversation developed, Yeshua said something quite amazing. Most of us have read it many times without absorbing the importance of it. (Especially those of us who are staunch Israel supporters)  The day is coming when true worshippers will not worship in Jerusalem, but “will worship Him in Spirit and in truth”.

There is presently NO Temple in Jerusalem. But it was the place of earthly worship designated by God. Ezekiel describes a Temple yet to be built. The “Temple Mount Faithful” are planning to rebuild a Temple in Jerusalem. But Yeshua is prophesying that the Father will not be worshipped there. For your consideration I offer the following. When a new temple is built in Jerusalem, it WILL for worship. However, there is another who will demand worship in that Temple. It will happen at the end of this age. The Bible refers to him as “the Beast”. Antichrist. And there is NO Temple in the New Jerusalem.

Watch and pray.       

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections       31     

Torah portion                   Numbers 4 : 21  – 7 : 89

Haftarah portion           Judges  13 : 2 – 25

Brit Hadashah                 John 1 : 1  - 51

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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The gospel of John is different to those which precede it in our Bibles. His focus is significantly on the deity of Yeshua, whereas the other gospels report on His humanity.

“In the beginning” he starts off. Right back to the mighty act of creation. The Word which became flesh and dwelt among us was there. Grasp the enormous implication of that. Our well recognized Messiah Yeshua who climbed the hill at Calvary to die on that Roman cross is the same One who spoke light into being. The same One who made the firmament and divided the waters. The same One who spoke blessing and promise to Abram. The same One who spoke to Moses on the mountain. The same One who brought fire from heaven to consume the sacrifice of Elijah on Mount Carmel. And the same One who appeared to Rabbi Sha’ul on the road to Damascus.

Now if that does not stir your heart, it should! The continuity of the whole of Scripture is vested in the person of Yeshua. He is both the author and the purpose and fulfilment of Scripture. Without Him, the Scriptures are just an interesting documentary of the history of one people group. But He is the purpose, and John knew it full well.

It is Yeshua Himself who commanded Moses to tell the people how to live righteously before each other and before Almighty God. Is it any wonder that He said (as recorded in Matthew 5:19) “I did not come to destroy the Law or the Prophets” How could He since He was the author?

The Apostle John takes time to acquaint us with the prophetic references to the Messiah. First, John the Baptizer. He was Yeshua’s cousin in the flesh. They would have grown up knowing a lot about each other. John the Apostle tells us that John the Baptizer came to this earth with a special mission, that being to herald and bring attention to Yeshua. But John the Baptizer must have been extremely impressive too, because the Scribes and Pharisees were able to discern something quite different about him. They couldn’t quite work him out. “Who are you?” was the question. Then they had a few guesses. All wrong. But John clearly testified as to the true identity of Yeshua. He had absolutely no doubt. He said “I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God” and the very next day as he watched Yeshua walk by “Behold the Lamb of God”. What an insight.

However, those close to John the Baptizer were looking for the coming Messiah and began to follow Yeshau upon John’s confirmation of His identity. “We have found the Messiah” was their triumphant testimony. Soon Yeshua had attracted close followers whom He chose to be His disciples. Friends and family members of each other mostly.

Is there a lesson for us here?

We are blessed to have the Scriptures. John has made it clear that Yeshua is the author, and the substance, the purpose, and the fulfilment of those Scriptures. And we KNOW Him. We have met Him. We trust Him. It challenges me to ask myself what I am doing to introduce my friends and family to Him.

Ah! But you do not know what my friends and family are like! True. But He does. The overwhelming bulk of persons who trust in the saving grace and sacrificial death and resurrection of Yeshua were told about Him by someone else. But generally, that ‘someone else’ was a person who had a life ordered by God. A disciple of Yeshua in fact. And it showed. It is often true that we talk to others more by what we are than by what we say.

So here’s the challenge. When I was a VERY young man I heard a visiting evangelist (to our town in Wales) say “Get on fire for the Lord and the world will come to watch you burn”.

There are many good lessons to be learned from our study of the gospel of John in the coming weeks. For this week, there are two stand-out lessons for me. The first is the recognition of the Creator of the Universe, taking human form, living as we live, but in perfect obedience to the will of the Father. The second is to observe the way in which Yeshua attracted those early disciples to Himself. It was a word of mouth recommendation of those who knew Him.

God will bless you as you talk about your Saviour. He is worthy of our praise and our commendation.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Torah Reflections       M3    

Torah portions               Exodus 19:1 to 20:23  and Numbers 28 :26 - 31

Haftarah portion          Ezekiel 1 : 1-28 and 3 : 12

Listen to the Prophets

Leviticus 23 and Deuteronomy 16 have the commandments about annual observances of the “mo’edim”. (The Hebrew word for “appointed times”, which in turn is usually translated into English as “feasts”). These are times when God specified He would meet with His chosen ones.

Today, they are most often referred to as “Jewish Feasts”. That correctly describes the fact that they are observances remembered by Jews. But it is an incorrect understanding of the Scriptures.

When God gave these instructions to Moses, He carefully worded these ‘appointed times’ (mo’edim) as MY ‘mo’edim’. They may be characterized as times when God says, in effect, “I will be there to meet with you on these specific occasions”. Those who choose not to attend miss an opportunity of blessing through meeting with Him at His invitation.

This ‘appointed time’ is fixed in relation to Pesach. Seven Sabbaths plus one day later.( In the Christian reckoning, it is called “Whitsun” and is seven weeks after Palm Sunday, but it bears no relationship at all to the ‘mo’ed’ of the Lord specified in Leviticus 23.) Some pretty exciting things happened at Shavuot, and the festival (also known as the Feast of Weeks) figures most significantly in the prophetic calendar as it relates to Yeshua.

Firstly, by Jewish calculation, and there is good evidence for it, this was the time when Moses was on the mountain communing with the Lord and receiving the instructions for righteous living, which we know as Torah. (see Exodus 19:1)  That, in my view is cause enough to celebrate. The very Word of God, which is ‘sharper than any two-edged sword’, came to us at this time of the year. An immeasurable blessing. My Bible tells me that Moses spoke “all that the Lord had told him” and wrote it in a book.(Exodus 24: 3 and 7). More importantly, that was the exact time that the first covenant was sealed, when the people voluntarily agreed as they said “all that the Lord has said we will do, and be obedient”.

Secondly, according to Acts 1, Yeshau returned to His Father 40 days after his resurrection from the grave. But He told his disciples to wait in Jerusalem. Just 10 days later was the festival of Shavuot. Jerusalem was overflowing with people, there for the festival from all over the known world (as it is today for the three pilgrimage festivals). Then came a sound ‘like a mighty rushing wind’. The Comforter, the Holy Spirit of God, the One who points to Messiah, was sent to minister His blessing to those who would receive it.

The disciples, already emboldened at meeting the resurrected Lord Yeshua, were imbued with power from on high. No longer the ‘shrinking violets’ who were shattered by the death of Yeshua on that cruel Roman cross. They spoke boldly to the throngs of people in the Temple courtyard, and miracle of miracles, the foreigners present all heard these fishermen from Galilee speaking in their own several languages. It is almost impossible to imagine. But by the power of the Holy Spirit of God, over three thousand were added to the company of believers that very day. Now that surely is another reason to celebrate.

But there’s more!!   Both events related above did not stop.

Today, we have the precious Holy Scriptures, written in so many of the world’s languages. The faithful Jews who were entrusted with those Scriptures have carefully preserved them for our blessing and instruction down through the ages. In the early days, meticulously copying by hand every ‘jot and tittle’. Every yod and vav.

The Holy Spirit of God is alive and well in the earth today. His role on earth is to point us to Messiah Yeshua, by any and all means possible. He brings strength to the ‘weary’, comfort to the ‘afflicted’, guidance to those who seek, and blessing to all who ask.

So if any still wonder why we should celebrate Shavuot, I trust that this ‘reflection’ will provide some answers. But there is a much greater and compelling reason. God commanded it. His promise, is included in the introductory remarks of this ‘reflection’. He will be there to meet all who come. It is a special time. It has never been revoked.

You will be blessed as you meet together and thank Him for His unspeakable gift.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      30  

Torah portion                     Numbers 1 : 1  – 4 : 20

Haftarah portion             Hosea  2 : 1 – 22

Brit Hadashah                   Luke 23 : 1  - 24 : 53

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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For most Christians, our reading this week is the most familiar in all the Scriptures. At the conclusion of the reading last week, Yeshua declared that He is indeed the Son of Almighty God. To the Pharisees, a statement of blasphemy which was ‘the last straw’.  Unceremoniously, Yeshua was taken to the Roman Governor, with false accusations about His ‘treasonous’ acts of subverting the nation and forbidding the people to pay taxes to Rome. Pontius Pilate questioned Him at length and declared that he was unable discover any fault worthy of the death penalty. In fact, no fault at all!! But Pilate discovered that Yeshua was from Galilee. That was under the jurisdiction of Herod, so Yeshua was paraded before Herod, who happened to be in Jerusalem (presumably for the festival of Pesach) and who was pleased to meet Yeshua because of His reputation. But all Herod’s questioning was met with only silence from Yeshua. So He was taken back to Pilate, humiliated but without accusation.

Now this is an important part of the story because it verifies two things. Firstly, that Yeshua was found ‘without fault’ by TWO investigations by the Roman authorities. In addition the Pharisees could only muster ‘false accusations’, so that made three investigations that Yeshua was ‘without blemish’. So the second verification was that Yeshua fulfilled a principal requirement of the condition necessary for the chosen Passover Lamb that was to be slain. Without blemish.

The atrocity, which His crucifixion was, is too horrific to understand. But it happened. By mid-afternoon, Jerusalem experienced a devastating earthquake. Yeshua was dead. The sun was obscured so it became dark. The huge veil which separated the Holy place from the Most Holy place in the Temple was torn from top to bottom. The magnitude of this cruel episode was not lost on the captain of the Roman guard. “Certainly, this was a righteous Man!” he declared. The crowd who had looked on were terrified at the thought of what they had been party to. They could not imagine what might happen next. But that was because they did not understand that this was not the ordinary punishment of a deserving criminal. What they had witnessed was the voluntary act of the Son of God, presenting Himself as the final Passover Lamb ‘without blemish’, paying the penalty of man’s unrighteousness in order that any who trusted in that selfless act (metaphorically painting that shed blood on the doorposts and lintels of their heart) would know peace with God, forgiveness of sin, and be ready to appear righteous and forgiven before Him. “Passed over” when final judgment is declared. What a picture!

Yeshua was placed into the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the Jerusalem council who dissented from the council decision to seek Yeshua’s crucifixion. It was late in the day, just before the Feast of Unleavened Bread began. A Sabbath. (A lack of understanding of the Hebraic nature of this event has caused the church to confuse this Sabbath with the weekly Sabbath which came two days later) . The celebration of this event at Easter can never satisfy the clear teaching of Yeshua that He would be in the grave for three nights and three days!! The resurrection of Yeshua would have taken place immediately at the conclusion of the weekly Sabbath, but was not discovered by the ladies until they visited the tomb very early the next morning.

That same day, the first day of the new week, Yeshua met Cleopas and his friend as they journeyed to Emmaus. They were the first of over 500 people who had an encounter with the risen Messiah. As He walked with the two friends, He spoke with them, beginning with Moses, then through the Prophets and Psalms, expounding to them all things concerning Himself. They would later say “Did not our heart burn within us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?”

That same experience is available to us today! Ask the Holy Spirit of God to show you, as you read the Scriptures, both the Hebrew and the Apostolic Scriptures, the revelation of the wonder and perfection of God’s plan for mankind. Get excited about the Scriptures and your heart will burn within you as you hunger to know more.

Yeshua then met with the rest of His close disciples. He spoke with them. He ate with them. He encouraged them by opening their understanding of the Scriptures. They became eye witnesses of the resurrected Messiah. That emboldened them to testify to the resurrection of Yeshua, against threat of persecution, nothing could stop them because they had that personal encounter with Him. He had conquered death and hell.  Then He ascended into heaven to sit at the right hand of the Father to await the time for His return as King of kings and Lord of lords. Hallelujah!

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections        29     

Torah portion                    Leviticus 25 : 1 – 27 : 34

Haftarah portion            Jeremiah  16 : 19 – 17 : 14

Brit Hadashah                  Luke 21 : 1 - 22 : 71

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

The Temple in Jerusalem, in the days when Yeshua walked this earth, was a magnificent, dominant, seemingly impregnable feature of the city. It was the very centre of religious life. And like some of our mega-churches today, had also become a centre of commerce, which had drawn the ire of Yeshua as He drove the merchants out of the Temple courts. He had described what was to be “a House of prayer” (Isaiah 56) as “a den of thieves” (Jeremiah 7). Harsh words eh?

Imagine the shock when, as some of them were discussing among themselves the beauty of the place, Yeshua announced to His disciples that a day was coming when “not one stone will be left on another”. Destroyed. Finished. No longer useable. Unthinkable statement. So they asked Him when this would happen. His answer was prophetic then of the physical destruction of the Temple by Titus in 70 C.E. (less than 40 years ahead) and it is prophetic today, because His answer embraces a time when certain events would take place, which many people readily identify as events which are occurring before our very eyes in our day. Days which herald the coming return of Yeshua as King of kings to rule and reign from Jerusalem. “Look at the fig tree” He said. “When that is budding, you know that summer is near.” So it will be when Yeshau returns. You will see the signs, then “watch and pray”. The signs are all around us aren’t they?

The season of Passover was upon them. Yeshua knew that in a few short hours He would be condemned to die on a Roman cross. The Scribes and the Pharisees wanted Him out of the way for sure, and to that extent they were complicit in His death. They brought false accusations against Him, and of course, because they were false, they did not stand up to rigorous scrutiny by the Roman authorities, who openly declared that they could find no fault in Him.

But Yeshua had a few more things to teach His disciples before that appalling crime was committed. As He reclined with His close friends around the table of the Passover Seder He told them that this would be the last time He would share Passover with them in this life. Understanding the form and substance of the Hebraic Passover Seder gives us a clear insight into the sequence of events around that table. And it is vastly different to that which has been taught in our modern churches for centuries.

Passover is an annual remembrance, throughout their generations (i.e. as long as there are Jews on this earth!). The Seder (a Hebrew word which simply means “order” or “arrangement”) has been developed as a ritual remembrance which is used in Jewish families to teach the children (and anyone else present) about the miraculous salvation of the Children of Israel from slavery in Egypt about 3,500 years ago. In Leviticus 23, it is described as the first of seven annual “mo’edim” (appointed times) of the Lord. This is what Yeshua and His disciples were about in our readings today. Tradition has it that there are FIVE cups of wine at a Seder meal. Four are drunk, and the fifth (Elijah’s cup) remains untouched until he comes to herald the coming of the Messiah.

The ‘third cup’, often referred to as the ‘cup of redemption’, taken after the meal, is the cup which is recognized by Christians in celebration of ‘communion’. (Note:- From a Hebraic understanding of the Scriptures I conclude that this was always intended by Yeshua to be an ANNUAL remembrance at the Passover Seder. Unleavened  bread representative of His sinless body, and His blood the guarantee of the New Covenant which is to be made with the House of Israel and the House of Judah). Regrettably, the lack of understanding of this Hebraic connection results in loss to the church, because the Lords ‘appointed time’ of Passover has been replaced by the Christianised pagan celebration of Easter.

After that Passover Seder with His disciples, He spoke to them about the betrayal which would shortly take place. He spoke about the testing which they would endure for ‘His name’s sake’. Then He went to a quiet place to pray. It is the place where He suffered great agony as He contemplated the magnitude of that which He was to bear. I do not think that agony was in regard to the physical deprivation He knew was to take place. It was the agony of the knowledge of the ‘chata’ (the sin) that He was to bear in His sinless body. The sin which would separate Him from His Father in Heaven. My sin. Your sin.        Selah!                           

If this ‘reflection’ means nothing else, it is worthy of your contemplation of the agony borne by our Saviour Yeshua on our behalf.      

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      28

Torah portion                     Leviticus 21 : 1  – 24 : 23

Haftarah portion              Ezekiel  44 : 15 – 31

Brit Hadashah                    Luke 18 : 1  - 20 : 47

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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It never ceases to amaze me how God speaks directly into ones situation through His word. Our reading this week opens with an encouragement to ‘pray and not lose heart”. We know that God is not deaf! He hears our prayer, and yet we are encouraged to ‘pray, and keep on praying’. The unjust judge in the parable dealt with the widow’s plea so that she would not keep bothering him. God is different. He loves our communication with Him as we pray, and has no difficulty with us who ‘pray and keep on praying’ about the same matter over and over again. The most important point is to recognize that God, unlike us, sees the whole picture. He sees the end from the beginning, and has our best interests at His heart ….  even when we do not understand the process.

The parables flow as Yeshua continues to teach the people the essence of Torah living. Caring for one another in love. Being child-like in our faith, trusting the words and actions of a loving Father. The blind man on the road to Jericho had heard of the miraculous healings which had been witnessed as Yeshua travelled around the country. Suddenly a large crowd of people came along the road. What was happening? Yeshua of Nazareth was passing through Jericho. The blind man cried out, not once, but many times, louder and louder making himself heard above the noise of the vast crowd. “Yeshua, Son of David, have mercy on me!” He would not be silenced. He asked, and kept on asking. Then those wonderful words coming from the very heart of God. “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” Immediately he received his sight, and followed Yeshua, glorifying God.

The story of Zacchaeus is a bit different. Everyone who has ever attended Sunday School knows the story. He was a ‘chief tax collector; and he was rich” my Bible tells me. We need to understand the Hebraic context of this encounter to fully appreciate the enormity of the hateful feelings of the ‘man in the street’ for a person such as Zacchaeus. He was a servant of the Roman authorities. He collected taxes on their behalf, and added plenty for himself in the process. He would have been considered a traitor. Because of his short stature he climbed a tree to get a good look at Yeshua as He passed by. Then ‘shock, horror!’, Yeshua, addressing him by name, invited Himself to Zacchaeus’ home. It changed Zacchaeus’ life. He remembered the obligations of Torah on those who believe! Exodus 22 speaks about restoration of property stolen from others, and Zacchaeus had done plenty of that. So he made the correct restitution, and for that Yeshua declared “Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham;” What does that mean? Abraham’s faith was counted as righteousness. He did the right thing! Then forever more, those who become ‘sons of Abraham’ through their faith, have righteousness credited to them. They receive salvation. But take careful note here. That faith was exhibited in their actions. It is infinitely more than verbal assent to something we believe. It is faith which results in righteous action. What we do, not what we say.

The story of Zacchaeus is immediately followed by the parable about stewardship. This emphasizes the role expected of those entrusted with “Sonship”. The slothful servant lost what he had been given because he had not ‘borne fruit’ for the kingdom. There is clearly the expectation that as His earthly stewards, the believers should be doing works which bring reward and harvest. It is not doing works in order to be saved. It is doing works because we have already received His salvation.

Yeshua then entered Jerusalem, riding on the colt of a donkey. The last week of His earthly sojourn. The Pharisees were enraged as His disciples shouted and cheered “Blessed is the King who comes in the Name of the Lord!”  But Yeshua wept over the city. Such hypocrisy and disregard for the ‘instructions for righteous living’ which was given by Moses. Speaking words which sound religious, but acting, that is DOING that which showed that they were far from the heart of God.

Dear friend reading this ‘reflection’. What would Yeshua say if He were to visit our church services today. Would He be delighted to see how much money is collected in the offering bag? And what happens to that money? Would He be pleased to see the way we care for the poor and needy in our community? Would He look us in the eye and say “Well done good and faithful servant?” Our reading today has provided us with a glimpse into the very ‘heart of God’. His intent in sending Yeshua was to ‘seek and to save that which was lost’. To find those who are counted as “sons of Abraham”. Be blessed as you seek the Lord, asking Him to reveal truth from His word, which He has promised ‘will not return to Him void but will accomplish that for which it was sent’.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections       27  

Torah portion                      Leviticus 16 : 1  – 20 : 27

Haftarah portion               Amos 9 : 7 – 15

Brit Hadashah                     Luke 16 : 1  - 17 : 37

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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The teaching parables continue. Firstly the parable of the ‘unjust steward’. Having been charged with deceit, he compounded that in his attempt to ingratiate himself with the owner’s debtors, and at the owner’s expense. The owner commended him for his shrewdness!! But that was not all good. The owner explained that his shrewdness had only served to make friendships with equally devious men. In so doing he had abandoned the security which was available to him had he dealt justly with the owner. The lesson was obvious to the disciples who heard it. The unjust steward had forsaken God (the owner) with His promise of eternal life, for the present transient offerings of men. A poor exchange. “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men (his shrewdness) is an abomination in the sight of God”.

Yeshua says that up to John the Baptizer, people were encouraged to ‘draw near’ to God with gifts and offerings according to the Torah of Moses. Now, the message is that the “kingdom of God” is with us. Time is short. Act whilst you can. So Yeshua followed that up by telling another parable about the rich man and Lazarus, the poor beggar. What is portrayed is a distressing account of that which awaits those who die not having faith in Him who died for us. We read in Hebrews 9:27 that “it is appointed unto man once to die, and after death, the judgment”. It is a solemn warning. Nothing has changed since the day it was first spoken. In this parable, when the rich man asked that the poor beggar be sent to warn his five brothers where they were heading, the blunt message of Yeshua was “They have Moses and the Prophets, they must listen to them”. As the rich man argued that his brothers would only listen if someone returned from the dead to warn them, Yeshua re-affirmed the status of Moses and the Prophets as His emissaries.

How sad that today, in many of our churches, Moses and the Prophets have been consigned to antiquity! Irrelevant. Of no consequence. Did Yeshua know something that the rest of us do not? It is incumbent on each of us to discover that truth for ourselves. It is that important.

The Pharisees were likened to ‘obstacles’ to faith in Yeshua. In life, these obstacles will continue to appear and in all sorts of guises. Regrettably, even within some modern church denominations there are obstacles to truth. Yeshua’s message is clear. At the end, it would be better for those who create those obstacles to have a millstone put around their neck and be cast into the sea. Because the alternative is as described in the parable of the rich man and the beggar.

Please note the language of Yeshua. There is no attempt to “guild the lily”. To make it easy. To provide an alternative. He tells it like it is. There is no ‘grey’. There is ‘black’ and there is ‘white’. Make a choice.

Later, as Yeshua was journeying between Samaria and Galilee, He was passing a village and met with ten men who were ‘lepers’. The law required that they be separated from the main populace, hence they called to Him from a distance. Yeshua told them to “Go and show yourselves to the priest” (As described in Leviticus 14) As they did so they were all miraculously healed. But only one returned to give thanks to the Healer, and he was a Samaritan, a foreigner to Israel. I am reminded of times when prayer meetings are called to intercede before God for some community or National need or disaster. It is rare for such a meeting to be called to give thanks, and to praise God for Who He is.

Finally, an interesting observation about the Haftarah portion this week, Amos 9 : 7 – 15. When David ben Gurion declared Israel an independent Nation again on Friday May 14 1948, the Torah readings for the Shabbat which began at sunset that very day included Amos 9 :10-11.

“All the sinners of My people shall die by the sword, who say ‘the calamity shall not overtake nor confront us.’

On that day I will raise up the Tabernacle of David, which has fallen down, and repair its damages; I will raise up its ruins, and rebuild it as in the days of old”

The modern State of Israel was born. And history records that on that very day, the Arab world declared what has become known as the ‘war of independence’ for Israel. It lasted 10 months. Israel prevailed, with the miraculous help, deliverance, and grace of Almighty God, and was forged in the process into a strong independent nation. Israel’s population of about 7 million, comprises just under half of the world’s Jewish people.

What a might God we serve.          

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      26

Torah portion                     Leviticus 12 : 1  – 15 : 33

Haftarah portion              2 Kings 7 : 3 – 20

Brit Hadashah                    Luke 13 : 1  - 15 : 32

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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We need to know a little of the history to appreciate the opening verse of our reading today. Acts 5: 37 provides the clue. There were dissident followers of Judas Gaulonitus of Galilee who opposed the payment of taxes to Caesar. They travelled to Jerusalem for one of the pilgrimage festivals, making their gifts to the Temple. Pilate treacherously sent a company of soldiers, who murdered them so “mingling their blood” with their sacrifices. Yeshua posed the question to the multitude “Do you think they were any worse sinners than other Galileans?” Then He told them that “unless you repent you will all likewise perish”. This was not a threat. It was a clear statement of fact for ALL who do not repent of sin and turn to Yeshua for salvation. It is a message for today, as it was for those who heard the words at first hand.

Then He spoke a parable of the fig tree. The interpretation is clear. The fig tree was given time to ‘bear fruit’. Those who hear the gospel are given time to consider and respond, to ‘bear fruit’. But that time is not limitless. It has a finite end. That was Yeshua’s message in the parable.

He then launched into another rebuke of the Pharisees in the synagogue because they objected to His healing of a crippled lady on the Sabbath. The dear lady ‘glorified God’, the Pharisees criticized Him. But they were shamed at their attitude as the multitude of ordinary people rejoiced at His actions and words. Then Yeshua taught them about the ‘kingdom of God’. How from little things, big things grow. The mustard seed, so small and yet grows big enough to have birds nesting in its foliage. Like leaven, wherein such a small amount, over time, leavens of large mixture of dough. The lesson for us is to remain faithful to what we have learned of Him, because even though we may not be aware of it, many others of our acquaintance notice how we behave, what we say, how we live our lives. The problem is that they see everything. So there is a downside if we are not projecting the love we claim to have received when we came to faith. Yeshua said, in Matthew’s gospel “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven”. So there is a message and a challenge for us right here. It is how the Kingdom of God increases in the earth. In another place we who are disciples of Yeshua are described as ‘salt’. But later in our reading Yeshua says “Salt is good; but if the salt has lost its flavour, how shall it be seasoned? It is neither fit for the land or for the dunghill, but men throw it out. He who has ears to hear let him hear!”

At this point in His ministry, Yeshua had turned to the use of many parables in order to bring His message. The man who gave a great supper for his friends, who all made excuses for not attending. So the host instructed his servants to go to the poor, the disadvantaged and any other who would accept the invitation. A picture of His rejection by His own, and the blessing which has been made available to non-Jews. But He then warned the multitude that to follow Him would be costly. It involves a complete change in lifestyle, habits and even friendships. How often do we hear that message preached in our affluent churches today?

The parable of the lost sheep, only one out of one hundred, but the Shepherd does not rest until that one lost sheep is safely in the sheepfold. In fact, He carries the wayward sheep on His shoulders to the place of safety. It speaks of the boundless love of Messiah Yeshua for those who are His. The parable of the wayward son who squandered his inheritance on selfish pursuits. The jealousy of the older brother. A parable often taught as the relationship between the Jew (the older brother) and the pagan who comes to the Father. It speaks of the warmth of welcome awaiting ALL (represented by the wayward son) who come in repentance to seek the safety of the Father’s home.

So again this week, we find Yeshua in conflict with the religious people, more intent with their legalistic observances than they are with the compassion exhibited in all of Yeshua’s actions. Is there a parallel here? Our church attendance is often perceived to be more important than living the life of faith in our neighbourhood. It is within the church where these principles of righteous living are taught. Or should be. Most of us were introduced to Yeshua in a church environment, but the life of faith is illustrated to our fellow ‘travellers’ in life, out in the community. It is not what we say, it is what we DO that counts,    

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections       25

Torah portion                    Leviticus 9 : 1 –11 : 47

Haftarah portion            2 Samuel 6 : 1–7 : 17

Brit Hadashah                  Luke 10 :1 -12 : 59

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

​

The reading today opens with the appointment of seventy disciples who were given the task of visiting towns and villages in the land where Yeshua Himself planned to go later. Sounds like a pretty easy task, but then came the conditions. “You go just as you are! No money, no food, no change of clothes, no extra shoes, no prior accommodation bookings, and don’t dilly dally on the way!” Then just to make it more interesting “You will be going as lambs among wolves!”

The message was that having shown faith enough to be entrusted with the assignment, it was now time to put that faith into action. Yeshua was saying “Trust Me”. He also gifted them with the power to heal the sick in places where their message was willingly received. They were expressly told not to seek accommodation, but rather to accept hospitality where it was willingly offered. Those were to be told that “The Kingdom of God has come near you”. Where they encountered rejection, the message was blunt. ‘The Kingdom of God has come near you, but it will be more tolerable in that Day for Sodom than for your city” Wow!

Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum formed the corner point of a triangle in Northern Galilee. Within this triangle Yeshua performed many miracles. They had seen the Messiah of God with their own eyes, and yet many had wilfully rejected His deity. In my research for this ‘reflection’ I discovered an organization called  “Associates for Biblical Research”. Some of their notes in advertising a proposed study trip to Israel included the following, which I print without edit.

“Many people personally witnessed his divine power, authenticating his claims to deity and the office of Messiah. They willingly and purposefully chose to reject him and remained unrepentant. Note the serious nature of the sin: it would be worse for these three cities than it was for Tyre, Sidon and Sodom. Space limitations do not allow for a discussion of these previous judgments in detail, but one thing should be noted: God himself visits Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum and is summarily rejected. The depth of the sins at Tyre, Sidon and Sodom were quite egregious…the sin in the triangle was even worse.

The modern church often tends to focus primarily on the pleasant and appealing parts of God's character: grace, mercy, peace, love, etc. While these aspects of God's character are attractive, it is improper for the church to focus solely on these characteristics. To ignore the holiness, wrath and judgment of God is to ignore the entirety of his being. A balanced view of God as presented in the Scriptures and understood in the context of orthodoxy should lead the church to appreciate the love and grace of God even more. Sin is a serious matter. It is an offense against a just and righteous God who reigns supreme in perfection.

Let us all take a great lesson from the residents of the triangle: embrace the full character of God so we can appreciate his love, mercy and grace in a much more profound way. Only understanding the bad news about sin and God's authority to judge us can we better grasp the good news of the Gospel.”

The observations above, relating to the church, are equally applicable to the individual. We should all take heed to these warnings of Yeshua to the cities ‘in the triangle’. In chapter 11 of our reading, there is another “woe” directed at the religious Pharisees. “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your inward part is full of greed and wickedness”. Harsh criticism indeed, but striking at the very heart of the matter. It is easy to be deflected from our own pious shortcomings by focussing on the legalistic Pharisees who practised the ‘traditions of men’.  But a moment or two of reflection about ourselves might reveal that the charge has a much wider application.

This is highlighted again as we read chapter 12. The challenge of the Scripture is unmistakeable. Look at the words directed to His disciples in the first instance. “Beware of the leaven (sin) of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, nor hidden that will not be known. Whatever you have spoken in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have spoken in the ear in inner rooms will be proclaimed on the housetops”.

I pray that as you read this Scripture passage this week, the Lord will speak into your heart, as He has mine, the things that need to be learned that we all, who love Him, may be good witnesses in the places to which we are sent .. daily.        

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Torah Reflections     Pesach 2

Torah portion            Exodus 13 : 17 - 15 : 26                                                                                                   

Haftarah portion     Numbers  28 : 16 – 25

The Torah of YHWH given to Moses

We come to the last day of the celebration and remembrance of “Pesach”.

The parashah narrative begins with the statement of fact that the Pharoah had finally agreed to “let the people go”. It continues with the story of the journey of escape from Egypt, and the drowning of the pursuing Egyptian army, and it ends with the provision of “sweet water” to drink out of the bitter waters of Marah.  A fascinating story.

These events are well known. Even non-Christian sceptics are familiar with the story, so we do not need to re-visit the detail. But we need to find the lessons for ourselves as the story unfolds.

Last week we focussed on the prophetic significance of the whole season of the three Pesach festivals. This week we learn of the detail of the way the event unfolded for them in practical terms. In fact, as we arrive at the very end of the “Feast of Unleavened Bread” in our study this week, we see the hand of Almighty God, and a picture of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach in this parashah.

We could look at the provision of food, which rained down from Heaven each night, sufficient to satisfy each family for the whole day ahead. And that which was not eaten that day rotted before the next day! It was to be gathered and eaten FRESH each day (Miraculously, the same food lasted TWO days when the weekly Shabbat came around).

The Apostle John, in Chapter 6 from verse 32, records the words of Yeshua when He described Himself as “the Bread of Life”. He goes further by relating the “bread from Heaven” in Moses time with Himself.

“Then Jesus said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, Moses did not give you the bread from heaven, but My Father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."

It is not going too far to equate the Israelites need for a daily gathering of that bread, with our need today for a ‘daily gathering’ of the bread which Yeshua is. He taught us to pray ‘give us this day our daily bread’. I believe that this phrase has both a literal and a spiritual meaning. We need to gather our ‘bread’ DAILY, just as those Israelites did in our parashah.

We could look at the provision of water. Moses was told to strike the rock, out of which poured an abundance of clean fresh, life-giving water. Our beloved Apostle Paul, writing to the church at Corinth used a most interesting description of this water.

“Moreover, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware that all our fathers were under the cloud, all passed through the sea, all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, all ate the same spiritual food,  and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ”    1 Corinthians 10 : 1- 4.

Paul is suggesting here that the miracle of the provision of water from the Rock extended to that Rock actually following them around!!  The plain sense of this is that it was Yeshua Himself, there with the Israelites on their journeying’s in the wilderness who sustained them with life giving water. On another occasion, when Yeshau was attending the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem, at the time of the water libation Ceremony in the Temple He said:-

“On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water."”  John 7 : 37,38

So then, as the “mo’ed” of Pesach concludes for another year, we remind ourselves that the Passover Seder which starts the celebration of this season always ends with the participants saying “Next Year in Jerusalem”. An anticipatory statement about the coming of Messiah. So we who are believers in Yeshau, can see the way in which this “appointed time” of Pesach not only speaks of Yeshau perfectly fulfilling His role as the ‘Lamb that was slain’, but also throughout the whole parashah we have reminders of His role in our lives as the sustainer of our life.

For the believer, without Him there is no hope of life. With Him we have abundant life …. IF we choose to access it.  Praise be to Him.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Torah Reflections     Pesach 1

Torah portion        Exodus 12 : 21-51   Numbers 28:16-25                                          

Haftarah portion    Joshua  5 : 2  to  6 : 1

The Torah of YHWH given to Moses

The regular sequence of Torah readings is interrupted this week because of the “mo’ed” of Pesach.

Leviticus 23 and Deuteronomy 16 have the commandments about annual observances of the “mo’edim”. (The Hebrew word for “appointed times”, which in turn is usually translated into English as “feasts”). These are times when God specified He would meet with His chosen ones.

Today, they are most often referred to as “Jewish Feasts”. That correctly describes the fact that they are observances remembered by Jews. But it is an incorrect understanding of the Scriptures.

When God gave these instructions to Moses, He carefully worded these ‘appointed times’ (mo’edim) as MY ‘mo’edim’. They may be characterized as times when God says, in effect, “I will be there to meet with you on these specific occasions”. Those who choose not to attend miss an opportunity of blessing through meeting with Him at His invitation.

This festival, known as “Pesach” (Passover), embraces THREE festivals in a period of eight days. The first of these remembers the actual day in history (the 14th day of the first month, Nisan) when the Israelites experienced the ‘salvation’ of the firstborn in their families by placing the blood of the Pesach Lamb on the doorposts and lintels of their houses in Egypt. The Lord ‘passed over’ their houses when He saw the blood.

It also is the exact Hebrew calendar date of the crucifixion of Yeshua. The Christian celebration of Easter (replacing Passover) was formalized at the Council of Nicea in the days of the Emperor Constantine of Rome. It signalled the official separation of the “church” from its Hebrew roots. (In my view one of Satan’s major victories over mankind).

The second remembrance is known as the “Feast of Unleavened Bread” which occurs on the very next day, Nisan 15. (It is a High Sabbath), and it lasts seven days, and begins and ends with a special Sabbath,  Note that there are always three Sabbaths during this Pesach festival.  The “High Sabbath” which marks the beginning of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, (and the Sabbath which marks the end of the festival, PLUS the normal weekly Sabbath). It is this “High Sabbath” which is the Sabbath mentioned in John 19:31 before which the Jews were anxious to confine Yeshua’s body to the grave. Then the ‘normal’ weekly Sabbath occurred immediately prior to the resurrection of Yeshua. This confirms the statement of Yeshua in Luke 11:29 (as well as in Matthew and Mark) when asked for a sign. Read it. The complete lack of understanding of this fact has caused conventional church teaching to major on an incorrect “Good Friday” crucifixion story !

Unleavened Bread is eaten during the whole eight day period of the Pesach remembrance. To Jews it is a remembrance of the fact that they ate unleavened bread,(as commanded in Exodus 12:18) as they fled from Egypt on the night of Passover. Leaven is a symbol of SIN, so to believers, the Unleavened Bread also represents the sinless body of the Messiah which was buried in the grave for three days and three nights.

The third festival in this Pesach season is the “Feast of Firstfruits”. It occurs on the day AFTER the weekly Sabbath in Pesach week. (Always a SUNDAY). It signified the beginning of the Barley Harvest and was celebrated by a priest waving an ‘omer’ (a measure) of Barley in the temple in Yeshua’s day. But it was also the day on which Yeshua was resurrected from the grave. Believers refer to it as Resurrection Sunday. (but in association with Easter rather than Passover!) It signifies that Yeshua became the “Firstfruits from the dead”.  (see 1 Corinthians15:23).

We should be grateful that churches worldwide (all varieties) remember the death and resurrection of Yeshua.  And that they do so sincerely. But more and more, many people are realizing that our roots are inextricably founded in Judaism and the Lord’s “mo’edim” (appointed times). Those that do then focus more on Passover than Easter.

In addition to your own church fellowship, this year, take the trouble to find a fellowship of believers who celebrate Passover, and join them in that celebration. You will be enlightened, blessed and immeasurably enriched as you do.

Chag Sameach   (Happy Holiday)

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections     25  

Torah portion                Leviticus 9 : 1 –11 : 47

Haftarah portion         2 Samuel 6 : 1 – 7 : 17

Brit Hadashah               Luke 10 : 1  - 12 : 59

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

​

The reading today opens with the appointment of seventy disciples who were given the task of visiting towns and villages in the land where Yeshua Himself planned to go later. Sounds like a pretty easy task, but then came the conditions. “You go just as you are! No money, no food, no change of clothes, no extra shoes, no prior accommodation bookings, and don’t dilly dally on the way!” Then just to make it more interesting “You will be going as lambs among wolves!”

The message was that having shown faith enough to be entrusted with the assignment, it was now time to put that faith into action. Yeshua was saying “Trust Me”. He also gifted them with the power to heal the sick in places where their message was willingly received. They were expressly told not to seek accommodation, but rather to accept hospitality where it was willingly offered. Those were to be told that “The Kingdom of God has come near you”. Where they encountered rejection, the message was blunt. ‘The Kingdom of God has come near you, but it will be more tolerable in that Day for Sodom than for your city” Wow!

Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum formed the corner point of a triangle in Northern Galilee. Within this triangle Yeshua performed many miracles. They had seen the Messiah of God with their own eyes, and yet many had wilfully rejected His deity. In my research for this ‘reflection’ I discovered an organization called  “Associates for Biblical Research”. Some of their notes in advertising a proposed study trip to Israel included the following, which I print without edit.

“Many people personally witnessed his divine power, authenticating his claims to deity and the office of Messiah. They willingly and purposefully chose to reject him and remained unrepentant. Note the serious nature of the sin: it would be worse for these three cities than it was for Tyre, Sidon and Sodom. Space limitations do not allow for a discussion of these previous judgments in detail, but one thing should be noted: God himself visits Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum and is summarily rejected. The depth of the sins at Tyre, Sidon and Sodom were quite egregious…the sin in the triangle was even worse.

The modern church often tends to focus primarily on the pleasant and appealing parts of God's character: grace, mercy, peace, love, etc. While these aspects of God's character are attractive, it is improper for the church to focus solely on these characteristics. To ignore the holiness, wrath and judgment of God is to ignore the entirety of his being. A balanced view of God as presented in the Scriptures and understood in the context of orthodoxy should lead the church to appreciate the love and grace of God even more. Sin is a serious matter. It is an offense against a just and righteous God who reigns supreme in perfection.

Let us all take a great lesson from the residents of the triangle: embrace the full character of God so we can appreciate his love, mercy and grace in a much more profound way. Only understanding the bad news about sin and God's authority to judge us can we better grasp the good news of the Gospel.”

The observations above, relating to the church, are equally applicable to the individual. We should all take heed to these warnings of Yeshua to the cities ‘in the triangle’. In chapter 11 of our reading, there is another “woe” directed at the religious Pharisees. “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your inward part is full of greed and wickedness”. Harsh criticism indeed, but striking at the very heart of the matter. It is easy to be deflected from our own pious shortcomings by focussing on the legalistic Pharisees who practised the ‘traditions of men’.  But a moment or two of reflection about ourselves might reveal that the charge has a much wider application.

This is highlighted again as we read chapter 12. The challenge of the Scripture is unmistakeable. Look at the words directed to His disciples in the first instance. “Beware of the leaven (sin) of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, nor hidden that will not be known. Whatever you have spoken in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have spoken in the ear in inner rooms will be proclaimed on the housetops”.

I pray that as you read this Scripture passage this week, the Lord will speak into your heart, as He has mine, the things that need to be learned that we all, who love Him, may be good witnesses in the places to which we are sent .. daily.        

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      24    

Torah portion                 Leviticus 6 : 1 – 8:36

Haftarah portion          Malachi 3 : 4 – 24

Brit Hadashah                Luke 8 : 1 - 9 :62

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

​

“What does this parable mean?”.  The disciples asked.

Yeshua’s answer is quite remarkable. Even though it was the disciples who posed the question, His answer was “To you it has been given to know the mysteries of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, …” He then quoted from Isaiah 6. “Seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand.”

This conversation took place very early in Yeshua’s teaching ministry. The disciples still had much to learn. But this exchange is picked up by the Apostle Paul in Romans 11 wherein he describes the ‘partial blindness’ of the Jews. Now we may extrapolate and apply the words of Yeshua to those of us who count ourselves to be His disciples today. It is given to us to ‘know the mysteries of God’. How? Primarily by the careful reading and study of His written word and the revelation of that word by the Holy Spirit. Did you know that king David tells us that “God has magnified His word above all His name” (Psalm 138:2)? There is no excuse for any who can read to be ignorant of what the Scriptures say. Paul told Timothy that “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,  that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for all good work”. (2 Timothy 3:16)

I want to suggest to you (understanding the Hebraic patterns of our text today) that an evangelist, preaching to an unsaved people group uses ‘parables’. Examples, anecdotes, stories, testimonies etc. in his proclamation of the gospel. But a teacher (and we should all be self teachers) seeking to ‘feed his flock’ uses exposition of the very word of God.

Following that, Yeshua, still accompanied by a multitude of people seemed unable to even have a brief conversation with His own earthly family. So, He and His disciples got into a boat to cross the Lake from West to East (the country of the Gadarenes) for some respite from the crowds. Immediately, they encountered a tormented man, plagued by demons, who instantly recognized Yeshua as the Son of God. Do you find it interesting that whereas the local population, certainly those with religious credentials, failed to recognize Him, those of the spirit realm, not only recognized Him but were scared stiff at the sound of His voice? Well that’s the fact. The rest of the story is well known, and the herd of pigs, complete with demon accompaniment, drowned in the Lake. Now, when the poor man was freed from his torment, and in his right mind, he naturally wanted to stay in the company of his Healer. But Yeshua instructed him to return back to his own and testify of the great healing work which had taken place in his life. Which he did. He was a gentile. In many other situations, where Yeshua healed Jews, He forbade them from testifying. Why? Well I think that for the Jews, His time was not yet. He seemed intent, given that His mission was to the “lost sheep of the House of Israel”, for the revelation of His identity as Messiah to come from inner conviction rather than external influence.

A little later, at Banias, He pointedly asked His disciples who people thought He was. They proffered a few names, but then He put the direct question to them. “But who do YOU say that I am?” Bear in mind that at this point they had been travelling with Him for some time and were eye-witnesses to many miraculous happenings. Peter boldy stated “You are the Messiah of God”. Correct answer. But Luke tells us that Yeshua then “strictly warned and commanded them to tell this to no-one”. Of course, three years later they could not stop themselves could they?

Now we need to dwell on the question Yeshua put to His disciples for a moment. It is a question that everyone has to answer. If you doubt that turn to Revelation 20. It will take you 5 minutes to read, and lifetime to acknowledge. The question is inescapable. Your answer will change your life … for ever.

One final ‘reflection’ on this passage of Scripture. Yeshua was on His way to Jerusalem, I assume for one of the festivals. Their journey took them via Samaria (where much earlier their own worship centres had been established as alternatives to Jerusalem). Some of the Samaritans refused to help them. The indignant disciples urged Yeshua to let them call down fire from heaven to consume them. Yeshua’s responded with a sobering rebuke. Read it in Luke 9:55,56.      

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections     23    

Torah portion                      Leviticus 1 : 1  – 5 : 26

Haftarah portion              Isaiah 43 : 21 – 44 : 23

Brit Hadashah                    Luke 5 : 1  - 7 : 50

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

​

Last week our reading ended with Yeshua healing ALL the sick people who came to Him in the region of Galilee. Many people were also released from the grip of demons (all of whom recognized Yeshua as “the  Messiah, the Son of God”) But Yeshua told the people that it was necessary for Him to visit other cities and regions of Israel in order to fulfil His mission on earth. (which He said was to seek out the ‘lost sheep of the House of Israel’).

It was at this time that Yeshua began to call men to follow Him. We know them as “disciples” (Heb, ‘talmidim’). It is quite noteworthy that He did not seek out the ‘religious’ people as His close associates, but, in the first instance uneducated fishermen. Peter, James and John. Men who became ‘giants of the faith’. Men whose words are recorded and taught today throughout the whole world, because of their faith. How amazing is that? On the face of it, by human standards, they had nothing to offer, but God looks at the heart of a man. What He saw was pure treasure. Men of faith … and faithful men. What does He see when He looks into my heart? And yours? Good question eh! Show us Your ways O Lord.

In Chapter 6 we find Yeshua having another dispute with the religious Pharisees about what they thought was acceptable Sabbath activity and what was not. My Bible says that after that encounter the Pharisees were “Filled with rage, and plotted what to do to Yeshua”.  Then Yeshua went out to the mountain to pray. He continued all night praying to His Father. What an example. Yeshua, about to make a momentous decision, (in the event a decision which actually affects our lives to this very day), spent all night in prayer. I don’t actually time my periods of intercession and prayer, but at a guess I think between 2 and 20 minutes probably covers the whole spectrum!

The decision He made was to choose, from all His disciples, probably hundreds of them, just twelve. And those He called Apostles. (Heb. “shaliach” sent ones. Those with complete authority of the sender) The Apostles were gifted with the substantial power of healing and casting out demons on the authority of the One who ‘sent them’. Those who endow themselves with such a title today should be very sure that it is not a mere hierarchical role, but one which carries the full meaning of an original “Shaliach”. It is not insignificant that Yeshua then spent the next three years in close company with these men, teaching them, correcting them, encouraging them and trusting them.

That can only really be appreciated when we have an understanding of the Hebraic thought in that ministry. It is a DOING function, not a badge of rank. Yeshua taught many things, perhaps one of the clearest lessons was in a parable immediately after His famous ‘sermon on the mount’. He said “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch?  A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher.”  Then “But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do the things which I say?”  Let us clearly understand His words. Take a moment to ponder what they mean. What did they mean then? What do they mean today?

Our reading this week ends with a most emotion charged account of a meal Yeshua took at the invitation of one of the Pharisees. A woman with a ‘sinful past’ (just like the rest of us) gate- crashed the event, but not before she had purchased a very costly jar of fragrant oil. She stood close to Yeshua, crying, penitent, humbled, expectant and unashamed to be there. She washed Yeshua’s feet with her tears and dried them with her hair. Then she kissed His feet and massaged them with the expensive fragrant oil. The atmosphere must have been ‘electric’. The host who had issued Yesua the invitation was taken aback. Surely Yeshua must know what sort of background this woman had! How could He allow this woman to touch Him?

Discerning those thoughts, Yeshua told the parable of the two debtors. One was forgiven much debt, the other less. Then He asked his host which of the two would be most grateful. The answer was obvious. With that He turned to the penitent woman. “Your sins are forgiven you, your faith has brought you salvation, go in peace”.

The lesson for us is clear. Yeshua speaks to us through these Scriptures. He poses the same questions. He discerns our hearts and our minds. He reaches out in love and forgiveness to all who repent and turn to Him, as did the woman in the story. His words to us are identical to His words to her. Read them again. Then give Him thanks and praise for His unspeakable gift of salvation.      

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      22    

Torah portion                Exodus 35 : 1 –40 : 38

Haftarah portion        Ezekiel 45 : 16 – 46 : 18

Brit Hadashah              Luke 3 : 1  - 4 : 44

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

​

Since our last reading, the text jumps a period of approximately 18 years. Luke is quite precise about the date. John the Baptizer, cousin of Yeshua, in response to the calling of Almighty God, began his powerful repentance ministry. He was absolutely fearless in his proclamation of the sin of the people of his day. In particular it was their neglect of the commands of Torah (which was a consistent theme of the ministry of Yeshua later), which included the care of the poor and disadvantaged, which caused his apparent anger at the situation.

Luke makes very clear that this message was in direct fulfilment of the prophecy of Isaiah 52. I note that Isaiah said “And all flesh shall see the salvation of God”. That is an interesting prophecy. I think it has at least two possible interpretations. It is undoubtedly true that all will SEE the salvation of God, but I do not think that ALL will experience that salvation.

“Brood of Vipers” doesn’t seem to be a charitable phrase to use to people who come to be baptized does it? And yet, both Matthew and Luke record these words used by both John the Baptizer and Yeshua. Evidently, there was a discernment that these people were playing some kind of lip service, in a manner of ‘keeping up appearances’, when they presented themselves for baptism. Luke records the reaction of a small selection of those people. As we look at these groups of people, just see if you can recognize any who still might well be alive today!

“What shall we do then?” was the common question put to John. “If you have more than you need, and see someone without, share what you have” was the first response. The Tax gatherers were enriching themselves at the expense of the community. (brings visions of our politicians to my mind). “Collect what is necessary and no more” was John’s response. (He might have said ‘be careful with other people’s money’). Then to the soldiers who were harassing people and taking money to ‘go easy’ on them. “Don’t intimidate people and make false accusations. Be satisfied with your wages as they are”.

In each of these cases, John the Baptizer might have said “Live righteously, be honourable, and don’t take advantage of others”. It sounds easy, but today we could list dozens of examples where in our everyday lives we can recognize those who could be “spotted” for similar conduct. So the message of John is as relevant today as it was 2000 years ago. Just ponder that for a moment. Because John hadn’t finished. He proceeded to warn them, that the One coming after him would be even more thorough. “He is the One with a winnowing fan in His hand, and He will THOROUGHLY clean out the threshing floor, take the “wheat” into His barn, and the ‘chaff’ He will burn with unquenchable fire”.  Read Hebrews 10:31. “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God”. And if any is unsure what that means, just read the verses of Scripture which precede it. John’s reward for his preaching was that he ended up in prison!

Salvation is NOT by works, but the way we choose to live our lives is a pretty good indicator of genuine repentance of past sin.

Our text then moves to the baptism of Yeshua, followed by a genealogy of His earthly ancestry. Chapter 4 begins with His wilderness sojourn during which He endured a quite appealing time of testing by Satan. It was ‘appealing’ because what He was offered was a shortcut to ‘glory’ which did not involve dying on a Roman cross. Dear friends, EVERYONE who repents of sin and turns to Yeshua is tested by Satan, and very often the temptation he offers us can appear quite appealing!  So we should take very careful note of the way Yeshua dealt with those tests. On each occasion, Yeshua directly, and accurately, quoted from the Scriptures. Learn from this how important it is for us to both read and study the Scriptures in order to equip ourselves for the challenging temptations which come our way. “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”  Says the writer to the Hebrews.

We conclude our ‘reflection’ today with Yeshua back in His adopted ‘home’ of Capernaum. There He encountered a man, in the synagogue, who “had a spirit of an unclean demon”. The demon quickly recognized Yeshua as “the Holy One of God”. And he was terrified of Yeshua. A lesson for us here. Demon spirits (and they do exist) have little fear of you and me, but at the Name of Yeshua of Nazareth, they will run a ‘proverbial’ mile. In His Name, he gave power to His disciples to heal the sick, and to cast out demons. To receive that power dear friends requires repentance of sin and a close walk with the One of whom those spirits are terrified. His Name is Yeshua. (Salvation)         

Shabbat  Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      21         

Torah portion                  Exodus 30 : 11  – 34 : 35

Haftarah portion          Ezekiel 36 : 16 – 38

Brit Hadashah                Luke 1 : 1  - 2 : 52

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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We begin our ‘reflections’ in the Gospel of Luke this week. It would be interesting to discover when this account was penned. Scholars have put this, together with “The Acts of the Apostles” (as a kind of two part series) as late as 80 – 90 C.E. I have a problem with that date in that two major events took place before that time, and neither is mentioned by Luke. Firstly, the destruction of the Temple in 70 C.E. by Titus of Rome, and secondly, the death of his friend Paul. (Who also does not mention that destructive event, because he is believed to be have been condemned to death by decapitation by the Emperor Nero soon after the great fire of Rome in about 66 C.E.)

However, regardless of the date, both Luke and Acts, are dedicated to a person called Theophilus, of whom very little is known. But one suggestion which came to some prominence about 500 years ago is that he might well have been a righteous and influential Priest operating in the Temple in Jerusalem. Remembering that almost 30% of the Apostolic Scriptures is contained in these writings to Theophilus. And with the small exception of one passage in Matthew’s gospel, ALL the emphasis on “Alms and Almsgiving” is contained in these books. By the time they were written, the general Temple Priesthood had been corrupted, not the least because the High Priesthood was no longer hereditary, but because it had great wealth potential was sold to the highest bidder. Hence “Alms and Almsgiving” for the poor was an extremely low priority. But not for Luke!

Then right up front, Luke gives us the account of the appearance of an angel, Gabriel by name, to a righteous Priest called Zacharias. It is also possible that Luke’s detailed knowledge of these events may well have been because of a close friendship between these two upright and righteous Priests, Zacharias and Theophilus (but that is pure conjecture on my part).

Understanding the Hebraic nature of the gospels delivers one of the most interesting deductions which may be made out of this angelic appearance to Zacharias in regards to its timing. Based on the reasonable assumption that Elizabeth became pregnant with John the Baptizer very soon after Zacharias’ week of duty in the Temple was completed, it is easily deduced that our Master, Yeshua, would have been born at about the time of the Feast of Tabernacles the following year. Probably early September by our modern calendar. The clues to this (do your own research) are in Luke 1:5, 1 Chronicles 24:3 and 10, Luke 1:23 and 24, Luke 1:26. (Hint! Priestly service in the Temple was for one week at a time, by divisions, commencing at Passover.)

We are also told in chapter 2, regarding the birth of Yeshua in Bethlehem (Hebrew ‘Beit Lechem’ meaning House of Bread!)  that there was ‘no room at the inn’. If you have deduced from the last paragraph, as I have, that Yeshua was indeed born at the time of the Feast of Tabernacles, one of the three ‘pilgrimage’ festivals when all males were required to attend Jerusalem for that eight day celebration, you will readily understand why there was no lodging available because of the vast crowds of visitors. (Bethlehem is a mere 5 miles from Jerusalem) Messianic believers would also know that it was, and STILL IS, the commandment of God to build “booths” called ‘Succahs’ as a temporary shelter during this festival as a reminder of the Israelites wilderness journey. Many conclude that the temporary dwelling of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem was, in fact, in one of those “booths”.

All of the above indicates the importance of a Hebraic understanding of the Scriptures to appreciate the message. Chapter 2 covers a lot of ground and many years with little comment. But we are told about two righteous people who knew the Scriptures and who had been anxiously awaiting the appearance of the Messiah. Firstly Simeon. His words of thanksgiving to the LORD are prophetically astounding. As he held the baby Yeshua in his arms he said “For my eyes have seen Your salvation (‘yeshua’ in Hebrew) which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, a light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.”  Isn’t that amazing. Secondly, an elderly lady Anna, a prophetess who proclaimed the Messiahship of this baby to all those who faithfully worshipped in the Temple. Finally, we are given an account of the 12 year old Yeshua, having had His Bar-Mitzvah (otherwise He would have been not be allowed to speak in the Temple) not only reading, but teaching with authority in the Temple.

But Miriam, His mother watched this Child’s development with awe. As indeed do we.      

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      20  

Torah portion               Exodus 27 : 20 – 30 : 10

Haftarah portion       1 Samuel 15 :2–34

Brit Hadashah             Mark 15 : 1 - 16 : 20

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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As we saw last week, the die was cast when Yeshua confessed that He is indeed the Son of the living God, YHWH. His appearance before Pontius Pilate was something of a formality. Yeshua was charged with blasphemy and sentenced to be crucified on a Roman cross. But, to his credit, Pilate made one final bid to release Yeshua. It was Roman custom to release one prisoner at the Feast of Passover. Those who sat on the Sanhedrin, stirred up the large crowd, and given the choice of releasing Yeshua or Bar Abbas, a convicted murderer, they chose the murderer. It sounds, and indeed is, a very sad commentary on human behaviour. But the mitigating factor in this story is that God was totally in control of the outcome.

Jews have, for all time since that event been taunted with the label of being “Christ killers”. Dear friends, make no mistake, this was the deliberate act of a holy God, providing for Himself the Lamb without blemish to be slain in sacrifice for our sin that we might draw close to Him in worship and praise. Mankind will NEVER understand the love that was extended to us on that awful, yet triumphant day. But throughout the ages there have been millions who have miraculously come to faith in Yeshua as a result. Praise God.

Understanding the very Hebraic nature of this event ought to quite naturally cause us to celebrate this mighty act of salvation at the time appointed by God for such celebration. Yet very few Christians do. How odd. It is the first annual “mo’ed” (appointed time) mentioned in Leviticus 23. It is the first of seven “mo’edim” (appointed times), which Almighty God described, not as Jewish Feasts as many Christians interpret them, but as MY FEASTS. In effect God is saying “I will be there to meet with those who come at MY appointed time”. There is great blessing available to all who celebrate that time, not the least because it is the remembrance of the act of our salvation. Of course, Jews remember the time when God saved them out of Egypt. Jews who have additionally come to faith in Yeshua have a double reason to celebrate don’t they?

How many of us would turn down an invitation to meet with some high ranking dignitary who specially invited us to an appointment? And yet millions of Christians do. Not once only, but SEVEN times every year.

Earlier, in Matthew 12:39, Yeshua had told the Pharisees that the only sign they would receive of His deity would be the sign of the prophet Jonah. That sign was about to unfold before their eyes.  As Jonah was 3 days and 3 nights in the belly of the fish, so Yeshua would be 3 days and 3 nights in the grave. And so it was. Many Christians have engaged in all sorts of date and day manipulation to try to get 3 days and 3 nights out of the time from Good Friday to Easter morning. Friends, it didn’t happen like that. When we understand the Hebraic nature of this event it all falls quite naturally into place.

Yeshua was put into the grave before the Sabbath. YES. But it was NOT the weekly Sabbath which is how Christians have mistakenly identified Good Friday as the day of Yeshua’s crucifixion. It was the Sabbath of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which is the day after Passover. (Please read  Leviticus 23: 5 – 7.) And He was resurrected from the grave immediately following the weekly Sabbath. Then the ladies discovered the empty tomb very early on Sunday morning. Thus completely fulfilling the sign of the prophet Jonah.

(I put it to you that Yeshua was crucified on a Wednesday afternoon, the next day being the Sabbath of Unleavened Bread, spent Thursday, Friday and Saturday (3 days) and Wednesday night, Thursday night and Friday night (3 nights) in the grave. Resurrection took place on Saturday evening, immediately after sunset, which a Hebraic understanding will tell you was the first day of the week).

 We end our ‘reflections’ in Mark’s gospel, with the record of Yeshua’s ascent into the heavenly realm and “sat down at the right hand of God”.  (which is a bit of a problem for those of the Seventh Day Adventist Church who are erroneously taught about what they term ‘investigative judgment” following the stoning of Stephen).

There are at least twelve records in Scripture about Yeshua appearing to various ones after His resurrection and before His ascent into heaven. The Apostle Paul records (1 Corinthians 15:6) that He appeared to more than 500 persons at one time. And today, dear friends, He enters into conversation with any who approach Him in prayer. In my personal experience He talks to me directly through His written word. May god bless you as you engage with Him too.             

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections    19

Torah portion                   Exodus 25 : 1  – 27 : 19

Haftarah portion           1 Kings 5 : 26 – 6 : 13

Brit Hadashah                 Mark 13 : 1  - 14 : 72

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Yeshua and His disciples left the Temple (after He had thrown out he traders as we discussed last week) and returned to the Mount of Olives, from where one is able to see the whole city of Jerusalem, including the Temple area. It is truly one of the most captivating sights in the world.

“Do you see these great buildings?” Yeshua said. “They are going to become a heap of rubble”. Wow!! Talk about a conversation stopper. The disciples were naturally curious about when it would be, but they certainly did not express any doubt that the Master might be mistaken. Then, carefully and clearly, Yeshua spelled out the programme of events which we refer to today as “the end times”. There are libraries of books and commentaries written on this subject, (much of it speculatory) and I do not feel that I can cover such a topic in this brief ‘reflection’. It is indeed a study in its own right. Sufficient to say that in reading carefully through Yeshua’s words, it is possible to conclude that we appear, at the very least, to be at the beginning of the end (and we might even be much closer to the end than most of us realize). For those who wish to delve into this topic, your study might well start in the book of Daniel, and will end in the Revelation of Yeshua given to the Apostle John.

As a matter of fact, the Temple was destroyed by Titus of Rome less than 40 years after Yeshua’s prediction, and scholars have calculated that Jerusalem itself has been ‘laid waste’ about 17 times during all its history.

Yeshua had entered the city in great triumph and with much adulation in last week’s reading. But, the Scribes and Pharisees, with the active encouragement of the Chief Priest sought, by trickery, how they could get rid of Him once and for all time. But they were conscious that with Passover just two days away, and with Jerusalem crowded by visitors for the festival, there could be an uproar if they moved too quickly. However, what they could not control was the fact (as we know from history) that this was precisely “God’s appointed time” to transact the final sacrifice by which mankind, forever afterwards, could draw close to Himself. They could not possibly have known, that what they conceived as an evil act of murder, was, in truth, the way in which God Himself voluntarily provided the gracious means of salvation for a sinful people.

There are just two observations to be made as we read the rest of this chapter of Mark’s gospel. Passover is the first of the annual Hebraic ‘feasts’ called “mo’edim” in Hebrew (‘appointed times’ in English) which are specified in Leviticus 23.  It is a perpetual remembrance of the time when God saved the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. A lamb without blemish was killed and its blood was painted on the doorposts and lintels of their homes. On this occasion, exactly to the timing God had specified, Yeshua became the voluntary Passover Lamb, and through the sacrifice of His blood, forever afterwards, those who metaphorically paint that blood on the doorposts  and lintels of their life receive salvation from the ‘slavery’ to sin by which we are bound.

The second observation, which emphasizes the voluntary nature of Yeshua’s sacrifice, is gained by an understanding of the ‘hebraic’ nature of the encounter Yeshua had with Caiaphas the High Priest. The story is well known. Yeshua was silent during most of His interrogation, but there came a moment when He spoke. And for that He was condemned.

Now we need to understand some of the commandments in the Hebrew Scriptures to grasp the significance of this encounter. Firstly, Leviticus 21 :10 has a specific instruction for the High Priest that he is not to tear his clothes, in particular referring to the holy Priestly Garments. Secondly, Leviticus 5 : 1 specifies the guilt consequences for any person, who put under oath to speak, does not do so.

In the first matter, of course, the High Priest violated that instruction by tearing his garment, and in so doing rendered himself ineligible to enact the Priestly function of slaughtering the Passover Lamb. In the second matter, Yeshua fulfilled that commandment by confirming His identity as the Son of God, In so doing, He ‘signed His own death warrant’, and fulfilled the absolute requirement of the Passover Lamb, which was to be completely ‘without blemish’. Perfect in accordance with the Torah instruction. At the same time, establishing Himself as “The Great High Priest” who sacrificed Himself, the Lamb without blemish, at that Passover.  Hallelujah, what a Saviour.

Be blessed as you study the depths contained in this portion of Scripture. Share that which God reveals to you with someone you love. 

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   18         

Torah portion                  Exodus 21 : 1  – 24 : 18

Haftarah portion           2 Kings 12 : 1 – 17

Brit Hadashah                 Mark 11 : 1  - 12 : 44

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Yeshua begins the last week of His life on earth in triumphant fashion. The people recognized that He was their Messiah. “Hosannah! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” was their joyful proclamation. How could they have been so sure? Because here He was riding into Jerusalem on a donkey’s colt, EXACTLY as Messiah was prophesied to come by the prophet Zechariah 500 years earlier. (Read Zechariah 9:9.)

This would be the turning point, hundreds of years of oppressive occupation by foreigners was about to come to an end! Their joy almost palpable. “Our Messiah has come to set us free. Hallelujah.” One can hear them shout. Anyone who has visited Israel will readily picture the scene. The walk down the hill from the Mount of Olives and into the Old City through the Lions Gate is a ‘must do’ tourist experience. The Temple on your left, and the Antonio Fortress slightly to the right. The Apostle Mark records that Yeshua had a good look around ‘at all things’, and then went back up the hill to Bethany on the Mount of Olives.

The next day, Yeshua returned to the Old City, but shock! horror! instead of turning right to clear out the Romans from their base in the Antonio Fortress, He turned LEFT, into the Temple courts and cleared out the traders who had set up shop there. The Temple had been turned into a place of business. (It is not too much of a stretch to see some parallels in some of our church structures today is it?)

Christians are apt to miss the decidedly ‘Hebraic” nature of the charge laid by Yeshua at this Temple scene. We all know the charge, but not its origin. “A house of prayer for all nations” is actually a conditional promise contained in Isaiah 56. Read the first 6 and ½ verses and the condition is clearly set out. It is for those who “keep the Sabbath”, a key covenant promise made by the Israelites. The “den of thieves” reference is a quotation from Jeremiah 7. Read the whole chapter. To put this into a modern context, Yeshua is effectively saying “Do you think you can do all the religious stuff, say the right words, go to church every week, and by that get a licence to live just as you please?”  Then He says, “remember Shiloh”. (Read the account of that in 1 Samuel 4, wherein the Israelites misused the Ark of the Covenant and lost it to the Philistines as a result.)

So Yeshua gave them a sermon in just those two phrases. And it is a sermon from which there is much to be learned even today for any willing to take note. And there is MORE.

Mark chapter 12 declares the parable of the owner of a vineyard who, when He had completed it and made it fruitful and profitable leased it to some tenant vinedressers. The parable is full of meaning for every age of mankind. The servants who were sent to gather some of the produce were rejected and killed. There were many of them over a period of time. They are interpreted as being analogous to the many prophets and leaders who have been sent, to the Israelites, and by extension to all of humanity, over the centuries, their deeds and warnings documented in Scripture for our understanding.  Then, because we know the end of the story, Yeshua makes reference to Himself, the Son of the Owner of the vineyard. He knows that He is shortly to be rejected and killed. He is the “stone which the builders rejected, and is now the chief cornerstone”. That on which the whole ‘building’ is erected and stands firm. That which we know today as “the church”. Not ‘a church’ but “the church”.

Then at the end of our reading, Yeshua again speaks a warning and condemnation of those who found themselves in positions of authority, leaders of the assemblies. They dress the part, they speak the right words, they are always found in the best seats, are found mixing with the ‘important’ people in the community. Does any of that strike a chord?

He completed the picture by contrasting the plight of the poor widow (and make no mistake, in their community a widow would be poor, which is why so much emphasis in ‘living righteously’ was put on caring for ‘widows and orphans.) who out of her poverty, gave so much, and which was used to support the lifestyle of the leaders.

Yeshua did not mince His words. He still doesn’t. All throughout the Scriptures we are told that when we belong to Him, we are required to show that relationship in the way we live our lives. It is not a self-seeking or self-indulgent lifestyle. It is a life of service, in another place described by the Apostle Paul as a ‘life of slavery’ to Yeshua. So much for the teachers of the ‘prosperity gospel’.        

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections    17

Torah portion                    Exodus 18 : 1  – 20 : 23

Haftarah portion            Isaiah 6 : 1 – 7 : 6 and 9 : 5 – 7

Brit Hadashah                  Mark 9 : 1  - 10 : 52

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Yeshua took Peter, James and John with him to a ‘high mountain’. It is traditionally thought this to be Mt. Tabor, a few miles east of Nazareth. But the site of the ‘confession of Peter’ which we discussed last week is in Banias, in Northern Galilee. That is much closer to a higher mountain, Mount Hermon. However, the site is immaterial to the event. Yeshua’s appearance was visibly changed to a brighter than bright whiteness. He glowed. Not only that, but two other men, identified as Moses and Elijah, appeared there on the mountain in conversation with Yeshua. Wow!!

My Bible describes the disciples as ‘greatly afraid’. I think we can all identify with that can’t we? It was an amazing spectacle to be sure. I have no idea how these men recognized Moses and Elijah, whom they had certainly never met. Maybe Yeshua introduced them. What we do know is that neither of them had an earthly burial place. In fact, Elijah did not die a natural death, he was transported into heaven, and Moses, even though he had a ‘normal’ death, where he was buried is a “God secret”.

The other thing we know is that both Moses and Elijah had very high standing in the eyes of the disciples (in fact in the eyes of all Jews). Moses is forever identified as God’s messenger in leading the Israelites out of Egypt, and subsequently bringing ‘Torah’, and Elijah was known to them as the “prince” of prophets, not least because of the way he faced down the 400 prophets of Baal at Mt. Carmel. And now, before their very eyes they see their Master, Yeshua, in conversation with these giants of their faith. IF they needed any proof of Yeshua’s identity, here they see Him in close company with Moses and Elijah. But there was more. The VOICE. “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him.”

Talk about a ‘life changing’ experience! It is hard to imagine anything to compare with what they witnessed.  But they had questions. “Why do the scribes say Elijah must come first?”  Yeshua told them, not only must Elijah come first, but he has already come! He spoke of His cousin, John the Baptizer. There are a number of reasons why. From the Hebrew Scriptures we know that they dressed alike (2 Kings 1:8 and Matt 3:4). We know that they preached a similar message (Malachi 4:5,6 and Luke 1:17) Both of them had very high profile enemies (1 Kings 18:17 and Matthew 14:3). Some may point out that in John 1:21, John flatly denied that he was Elijah, but this may be explained because there was a belief that because Elijah had never actually died, that he was still around roaming the earth. John’s denial was that he was NOT the ACTUAL Elijah who had been transported into heaven many years earlier.

Later, when the three had returned to the where the crowds were gathered, they were confronted by a discussion about the failure of the disciples to exorcize a particularly nasty demon from a man who had suffered the agony from childhood of being rendered deaf, dumb and smitten with uncontrollable fits. To my mind there are two notable features of this healing. The first is the action and words of the distraught father of the man. He had the faith to bring his son to Yeshua. But he said “if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.”  Yeshua’s response, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes”. Sounds so easy doesn’t it? With tears of pleading the distraught father said words which so many of us need to learn. “Lord, I believe, help my unbelief!”  I think the father was saying “I’m doing my best, I’m doing all I know to do, but I still need help, I need Your healing touch too.”

Maybe, as some evidence of this, we find Yeshua travelling south again, with His disciples. During the journey, He told them about His impending death and resurrection. They clearly did not understand this, but were afraid to ask Him any more details. What they did discuss however, and evidently with some disputation was what their ‘pecking order’ would be after the announced death of the Master. How human is that?

But Yeshua, discerning their hearts, called them together and said more words that need to be burned into our spirit as followers of Him. It is plain and unequivocal. “If you desire to be FIRST, then take your position as last of all, and servant of all”.  Friends, we have generated a hierarchical structure of authority within our modern day churches which is diametrically opposed to that statement. We have adopted the hierarchical business model with high sounding names, adding words like “senior” and “chief” to Biblical ministries which were intended to be ‘servant ministries”. Dare I say it?  We would do well to abandon the “greek” and put on the “Hebraic”.                    

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      16        

Torah portion               Exodus 13 : 17  – 17 : 16

Haftarah portion       Judges 4 : 4 – 5 :31

Brit Hadashah             Mark 7 : 1  - 8 : 38

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Another challenge from the Pharisees! Yeshua’s disciples eating bread without washing their hands in the Pharasaically prescribed manner.

This is where an understanding of the “Hebraic” mindset is so vitally important to understand the message. Whilst it is hygienically advisable, it is not halachicaly prescribed that hands be washed before eating. It is part of Rabbinic tradition, but not part of Torah instruction.

Yeshua meets the challenge head on. He promptly reminds them of other ‘traditions’ which they observe which are not only Torah commanded, to respect, honour and support parents, but which they had circumvented by their tradition. Namely “Corban”. A ‘device’ by which they say that the benefit which would ordinarily accrue to parent support, is given for Temple service, hence they become exempt from parent responsibility.

Then Yeshua launched into an explanation for the benefit of the multitude of folk who followed Him wherever He went. Regrettably, this explanation, whilst perfectly clear to the Jews being addressed, has been used by gentile Christians to abrogate the Deuteronomy 14 dietary commandments of Torah.

Get your mind into gear! The explanation is quite simple. First and foremost, the audience was 100% Jewish. They were familiar with, and observant of, the Torah commands of Kashrut. All of them. So when He says “There is nothing that enters a man from the outside which can defile him”, He was specifically referring to the eating with unwashed hands, which was the complaint raised by the Pharisees. He goes further “but the things which come out of him, those are the things which defile a man”. A very pointed reference to the teachings of the Pharisees about the circumnavigation of the Torah with manmade traditions.

Then in expansive explanation “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, licentiousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within and defile a man”. None of these things have any relationship to the intake of food. The reference in verse 19 regarding the “purifying all foods” is universally understood to be a reference to the function of the human dietary system wherein the goodness of food is absorbed and the ‘unclean’ or residue of food is purged. It has NOTHING to do with the ‘laws’ of Kashrut.

The healing of the Syro-Phoenecian girl is noteworthy. This event in Matthews gospel draws a comment from Yeshua about His earthly mission, which He said was ONLY to the “lost sheep of the house of Israel”. But it gives us an example of the widespread effect of Yeshua’s earthly ministry that even at this very early stage, non-Jewish people were exercising immense faith in Him, and received amazing blessing as a result.

Chapter 8 continues with Yeshua’s healing miracles, but also contains the account of an important dialogue between Yeshua and His disciples. His question was simple. “Who do men say that I am?”  It was a reasonable question because we have read a number of times that where people did recognize His identity He quickly charged them to tell no-one.

They proffered many answers to the question. Some say “this”, some say “that”. In fact there appeared to be many “opinions” regarding Yeshua’s real identity. It seems likely that not much has changed has it? “He was ‘a good man’”. “He was a prophet”. “He was ‘whatever’”, we might hear today.

But then, in my mind’s eye, I can imagine Yeshua looking intently at those close disciples. “But who do you say that I am?”

It is a burning question. It required an answer. It still does. Mark records Peter’s response as both short and direct. “You are the Christ”. (a Greek translation of the Hebrew word ‘meshiach’ into ‘cristos’ and then English). “You are ‘the anointed One’”. Immediately, Yeshua instructed them to tell no-one about His identity. Why? I believe the reason is that just as Yeshua told Peter (recorded in Matthew’s gospel) that this revelation was of God Himself, and upon that confession of revelation Yeshua would build His church. So today, the identity of Yeshua is revealed by God, through the agency of His Holy Spirit, directly to each individual who is to be part of His Church. Not ‘the church’, His Church.  And how do we know when we are members of His Church?   Read Mark 8 : 34 – 38, Yeshua’s own words describing that membership.      

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   15         

Torah portion               Exodus 10 : 1  – 13 : 16

Haftarah portion       Jeremiah 46 : 13 – 28

Brit Hadashah             Mark 5 : 1  - 6 : 56

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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The Scripture passage this week has many accounts of the healing power which was exercised by Yeshau and His disciples. The first example being the demon possessed man from the Gerasene region on the Eastern side of Lake Genneseret. Gentile territory.

Everyone knows the gist of the story, but there is more to the detail than is obvious to Christian eyes. We are not told specifically why Yeshua chose to visit this area, but we know the result. The “Hebraic” mind sees this incident awash with ‘uncleanness’. The poor man was possessed by an ‘unclean’ spirit (in fact a legion of many spirits). He was found inhabiting an ‘unclean’ place where the dead were buried. (Those who have visited Jerusalem will know that the closed up Eastern Gate of the Temple was ‘guarded’ by the Ottoman Moslem occupants of Jerusalem by a vast cemetery, which remains to this day, because they argued that the Jewish Messiah would not defile Himself by passing through a cemetery on His prophesied return through that Eastern Gate).  When the man was released from the bondage of those alien spirits, they found refuge in the 2,000 strong herd of ‘unclean’ animals, who promptly died when they went over a precipice into the water below.

The ‘Hebraic’ mindset, familiar as it was with ritual uncleanness, would not venture within a mile of this poor man without significant religious consequence. Yet, it appears almost as if Yeshua sought him out, as if to make a special point to those who witnessed the miracle.

The good news of this event is that the man returned to his home clean and in his right mind, speaking in all the mainly pagan region known as the Decapolis (today’s Jordan) about his healing experience. One might think that the local people, having seen the miracle, would bring their sick to Yeshua for healing. But they pleaded with Him to leave the district. Someone once uncharitably commented that somewhat like today, there are many who would rather have their pigs than their Saviour. So Yeshua promptly returned to the other side of the Lake where He was greeted by a multitude who were enthusiastic to see Him back again.

There is a lesson here for us. I have heard evangelists say that Yeshua is ‘pleading with us to accept Him as our Saviour’. He is the Son of the Living God. He offers us the gift of salvation, bought with His own blood. We are drawn to Him by the Holy Spirit of Almighty God. The ‘pleading’ should surely be ours, not His. I am confident in saying that no-one is pressed into that position by Him. In our story, He was asked to leave. And He did. It is not God’s wish that any should perish, but if that is our choice, He moves on. Ponder that thought as you read it in this passage of Scripture.

The healing ministry continued. The 12 year old daughter of Jairus, a ruler in the synagogue community, raised from death to life.  The lady with a twelve year history of ritual uncleanness due to the ‘issue of blood’, getting worse each day.  One can only marvel at the immense faith of this desperate lady (do not minimize the devastating effect of her condition on her social and community life).  But she reached out and ‘touched’ the hem of His garment (probably a Tzitzit, the prayer shawl worn by observant Jews). Read the dialogue which took place between Yeshua and His disciples.

And all the while, the religious Pharisees, as we learned last week, attributing such miracles to Satan and in so doing, “blaspheming against the Holy Spirit”. O how careful we should be today to give glory to God for His marvellous works.

Our reading continues with the account of the vengeful death of John the Baptizer. Yeshua and His disciples were heartbroken. “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while” He said. So they took a boat and moved to a quiet part of the shore around the Lake. But the multitude of followers guessed where they would go and ran around the Lake (Those who have visited Israel would know that it is relatively easy country to walk around in Northern Galilee).

With great compassion, Yeshua taught the people ‘many things’. But it got late and there was nowhere to buy food. This is where the Scriptures tell us about the 5,000 men who were present. There would have been many women and children present too. The multiplication of the five loaves and two small fish is another “Sunday School” favourite. And finally, we are told about Yeshua’s command of the wind and the waves. What a mighty Saviour we have.           

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections     14

Torah portion                   Exodus 6 : 2  – 9 : 35

Haftarah portion           Isaiah 66 : 1 – 24 :13

Brit Hadashah                 Mark 3 : 1  - 4 : 41

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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We ended last week with Yeshua declaring Himself Lord of the Sabbath. In our day, a most “Hebraic” pronouncement. This week’s reading finds Yeshua again attending the synagogue on the Sabbath. Surely anyone can see that Yeshua was as Jewish as it is possible to be, and yet some appear to have difficulty accepting His Judaism. In these early chapters of Mark’s gospel we find Yeshua emphasizing, by healing, His Messianic credentials, and at the same time ‘rattling the cages’ of the religious community by challenging their practice of putting great high fences around the Torah. Sabbath observance is a foundation stone of Judaism, but man-made restrictions regarding these observances are, to many of us, quite ‘over the top’.

I distinguish between Pharasaic Judaism, with its strict man-made rules of observance, and Messianic Judaism, which recognizes Yeshua as Messiah, which I believe was the Apostle Paul’s conversion experience on the Damascus Road. (Acts 9). And which I believe should be embraced by all who claim to love Him. (Read John 14:15 and John 15  for a refresher).

So Yeshua healed the man with the ‘withered hand’, taught in the open air to many thousands of His disciples on the shores of Lake Kenneret, and then went to quiet place, a local mountain, and called to Himself those 12 men in whom He could see the right spirit and attitude ‘that He might send them out to preach’. He chose those 12 men to be His close disciples. These men were entrusted with the “power to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons”. But this ‘power’ was to bring glory to God, not for self-aggrandisement or self-enrichment. I cannot help but compare the situation today, where the exercise of such power, when evident, is most often attributed to the person exhibiting that power. It causes difficulty for that person to remain walking “humbly before his God” doesn’t it?

The Scribes and Pharisees present had witnessed Yeshua’s healing miracles. But they were so enraged by His evident association with healing and forgiving sins, a power which only God Himself could exercise (Isaiah 43:25 and Jeremiah 50:20), that they sought to “destroy Him”. They went further, by attributing His miraculous healings to the power of Satan. This drew from Yeshua, that often mis-understood saying “.. but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness ..”. Mark then qualifies this with the statement that it was because they had said “He has an unclean spirit”.

The situation was unique to that time. Yeshua Himself was present healing sicknesses. The Pharisees were present as eye-witnesses to those healings. And yet, they steadfastly and stubbornly resisted the evidence of His Messianic qualification. Many thousands of others did not. It was their total rejection of His identity as Messiah, coupled with their weak attempt to attribute the healings to Satan, which constituted their ‘blasphemy against the Holy Spirit’.

The question arises “how, today, is the Holy Spirit blasphemed?” Bear in mind that we are dealing with an unforgivable act. There are plenty of people around praying for healing in Yeshua’s Name. There are many who boldly attempt to exercise the ‘gift of healing’. Well, there are at least two ways of ‘blasphemy against the Holy Spirit’ which we learn from our reading today. Firstly, to attribute healing, when prayed in Yeshua’s Name, to Satan. Secondly, stubbornly rejecting the identity and person of Yeshua, when the Holy Spirit is present convicting us of the truth that He is the Son of God. Now I want to be crystal clear here. I have written a number of times in these ‘reflections’ that worship of God is what we DO, not what we say. So it is simply not good enough to merely assent with your mind that Yeshua is the Son of God (even the demons in our reading today said that). The Holy Spirit is blasphemed when we know the truth, but blatantly and stubbornly reject His call to follow Him. (Read John 14:15 and John 15 again).

Finally, it is noteworthy in our reading today that immediately following this, Yeshua changed tack. He began teaching the people by parables.

“And with many such parables He spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it. But without a parable He did not speak to them. And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples.”

Be blessed again as we read this Scripture passage, asking the Lord to reveal truth to us that we might be careful not to blaspheme against the Holy Spirit.                       

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   13         

Torah portion               Exodus 1 : 1 – 6 : 1

Haftarah portion       Isaiah 27 : 6 – 28 :13 and 29 : 22, 23

Brit Hadashah             Mark 1:1 - 2 : 28

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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The gospel of Mark is the shortest, and probably the first written, account we have of life in Israel when Yeshua walked this earth. Mark does not ‘beat about the bush’! He starts with “.. the gospel of Messiah Yeshua, the Son of God”. No qualification, no apology, no ambivalence, no ambiguity, ‘because I met Him, walked with Him, learned from Him and I was there when He left this earth and ascended to His Father in Heaven’, he might be saying.

Then he began his story, it’s like a ‘once upon a time’ opening. Having established that Messiah Yeshua is the subject, he takes a step back to tell us that John, Yeshua’s cousin, was the personal fulfilment of prophecies that indicate that the way would be prepared for Messiah. Look at Exodus 23:20, Malachi 3:1 and Isaiah 40:3. (references which are made very convenient for us today, but at the time of Mark’s writings there were no chapter and verse divisions in the parchment scrolls of Scripture).

And what was the message of John as he ‘prepared the way’? Repent and be baptized for the remission of sins. We may be tempted today to think of water baptism as a relatively modern invention of the church. But it is a practice which was instituted when God gave Torah, His instruction for righteous living, to Moses. It was a preparatory ritual of cleansing for those who were to appear before a holy God. And to understand the Hebraic tones of the gospels, we need to know what the sin is from which repentance is required. In our churches we are usually taught that ‘that sin’ is some personal misdeed or attitude. Well, that could be right, BUT, ‘the sin’ (‘chata’ a Hebrew word which means ‘to miss the mark’) which our Bibles teach, is the blatant neglect of “Torah”, God’s instructions. Yeshua taught that He was sent ‘only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel’. (see Matthew 10 and Matthew 15). They were following what He called the ‘traditions of men’ rather than the Torah of God which was given to Moses. Hence they were ‘lost’.

Additionally, we are informed that as He was teaching in the synagogue at Capernaum (now a well preserved and excavated tourist site in the Galilee), that those present were astonished at His teaching, because He taught with a freshness of insight, and with an authority of His own, not, as was commonly taught by other teachers, in the name of some previous Rabbi.

When Yeshua was confronted by the paralysed man let down through the roof of Peter’s house, obviously knowing why he was brought there by his friends, He chose to say “Son, your sins are forgiven you”. Now the religious men there, familiar with the Scriptures, knew that this was an act of God alone (see Isaiah 43:25 and Jeremiah 50:20). So, to them, this appeared as a blasphemous statement. Then Yeshua, discerning their thoughts, addressed the paralytic man, “.. arise, take up your bed and go to your (own) house”. Clearly illustrating His credentials as both healer and forgiver of sins. God Himself in a human body.

Then follows the calling, as a disciple, the hated tax gatherer Matthew, called Levi in Mark’s gospel, and had a meal with him and other tax collectors. Bringing from Yeshua His famous remark “I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance”. Tax gatherers were a hated clan, their very occupation requiring them to be official thieves and robbers. And as servants of the Roman rulers, even more despised. Yeshua’s words in Mark 2: 21,22 give us an insight into His motivation for selecting as his disciples men who had no ‘religious’ baggage. The ‘new wine’ is the revelation of Himself, His person, His identity, His calling, His mission. The Scriptures are full of clues and references to His coming, both then, and on a future occasion. Many of them, and many of us, are blinded by the ‘religious’ teaching we have received, so that we cannot recognize Him as He is, and what His requirement is of us. I have said in previous ‘reflections’ that we worship God in what we do, not in what we say. It is how we live our lives, not in what we say we believe. Yeshua called these fishermen and tax collectors to Himself and they were immediately transformed from a previous lifestyle to a new lifestyle, it showed. It is quite “Hebraic” in its outworking. It’s a doing thing.

Our reading concludes with an unequivocal reference to the Sabbath Day. The fourth commandment says “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy (set apart)”. Yeshua says He is the Lord of the Sabbath, and that the Sabbath was made for man, for man’s benefit and delight, for man’s rest and pleasure. Enjoy it in His company.    

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections     12

Torah portion             Genesis 47 : 28  – 50 : 26 

Haftarah portion         1 Kings 2 : 1 – 12

Brit Hadashah             Matthew 26:1  - 28 : 20

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Such a lot of ground to cover. Yeshua had just concluded a long teaching on living a pure Torah lifestyle. He gave His disciples a glimpse into the future when He would rule and reign as King in Jerusalem. He described a time of judgement when nations would be judged according to their actions and lifestyle. He described that as separating the ‘sheep’ from the ‘goats’. In today’s language quite politically incorrect .. but factual. And sadly, many Christian believers today STILL don’t get the message!

And in this week’s parashah, He brought them back to the reality of His mission. “You know that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.” What a contrast. From the “King” in chapter 25, to the “criminal” in chapter 26.

We are usually good at anniversaries aren’t we? Ask your friend at your church when is Passover next year. Then ask why don’t we celebrate the death and resurrection of Yeshua at that time. Of course, you know the answer. The pagan Easter has taken its place. We appear to have forgotten the Jewishness of our Messiah. This is just another important reason to gain a Hebraic understanding of the Scriptures.

Chapter 26 has the account of what we refer to as ‘the last supper’. It was intended, just like Passover, to be an annual remembrance. But it has become a more frequent ritual in its christianized celebration of ‘communion’ or ‘breaking of bread’. Verse 28 quotes the words of Yeshua “For this is My blood of the covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins” (some Bibles include the word ‘new’ before covenant, but that is not in the Nestle-Aland or the United Bible Societies Greek New Testament translations). Never-the less, the blood of the covenant (which they broke) which Moses sprinkled on the people as a sign (Exodus 24:8) is replicated here by Yeshua in His own blood, as a sign and guarantee of the covenant which is, one day, to be made with the House of Judah and the House of Israel. The only difference between those covenants (both of which require the God ordained Torah centred lifestyle) is that the next covenant, the one guaranteed by the blood of Yeshua, is unbreakable because it will be written on hearts and put in minds by God Himself.(read its full text in Jeremiah 31 and Hebrews 8).

Yeshua, was arrested, and eventually interrogated, in front of the Jewish Sanhedrin by the Sadducee Caiaphas, the serving High Priest at that time. There are two important Hebraic matters to observe here. Firstly, Yeshua remained silent (Matthew 26:62,63) during this interrogation until put under oath by Caiaphas. As an indication of His perfect Torah observance, Yeshua confirmed His identity as Son of God. The requirement of Leviticus 5:1 would have rendered Him complicit in deceit had He remained silent at that point. And secondly, Caiaphas tore his priestly garments, in direct violation of (Leviticus 21:10) a Torah command. By this action he effectively disqualified himself from his duties, one of which, the next day, was to sacrifice the Passover lamb. The significance being that Yeshua became the Passover Lamb, but was not sacrificed by the appointed High Priest. But rather, in His own appointment as our Great High Priest, offered Himself as that sacrifice.

The final ‘reflection’ on this parashah is in relation to the Scripture we all know as “The Great Commission”(Matthew 28:18-20). “Go and make disciples of all nations”.

Now, making disciples was not an uncommon practise in Judaism. All the well-known, and unknown, Rabbi’s made disciples of themselves. A disciple is an imitator of his Master. The disciple would try to act, speak, think, dress, eat, and behave in exactly the way he observed in his Master. Then, in turn that disciple would eventually develop his own disciples. Here, Yeshua, is commanding, not to make disciples for themselves, but to make disciples of Himself. The result being that there is ONLY ONE Master, Yeshua Himself. And ONLY one teaching. Torah.

It is quite common, today, for people to declare themselves “disciples of Yeshua”. To what extent then should we, as His disciples, imitate Him? Well, the Apostle Paul says (Romans 11) that gentile believers become ‘grafted in’ to the natural Olive Tree, which is Israel. Furthermore that we become “partakers of the root and fatness of the Olive Tree”. We have seen how careful Yeshua was to live His life in accord with every aspect of God’s instructions for righteous living (Torah). What about us?

May God grant us wisdom to understand the Scriptures, not as others may have misguidedly taught us, but as the very Word itself declares?

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   11

Torah portion                  Genesis 44 : 18  – 47 : 27

Haftarah portion           Ezekiel  37: 15 – 28

Brit Hadashah                 Matthew 24:1  - 25 : 46

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

​“The disciples of Yeshua came to show Him the buildings of the Temple”. Why? Because He had just told them “Your house is left to you desolate”.

It would be another 40 years before that event, under the destructive hand of Titus of Rome, but Yeshua then began to unfold for them the things that would lead up to that catastrophic event. And, as is the case with many prophetic messages, there would be multiple fulfilments of the prophecy, perhaps the most significant still future to us today.

The “abomination of desolation” (Daniel 9:27) certainly speaks of a future event, but we must not overlook the relative immediacy of the prophecy for the people in Yeshua’s day. The destruction of Herod’s Temple was brutal and bloody. In verse 34 Yeshua told them that “this generation (a generation was about 40 years) will by no means pass away till all these things take place”. And they did take place. Read the account yourself and you will identify the events which actually took place strictly as prophesied when the Temple was destroyed. No doubt, many Jews ran away to safety at that time because of His warning.

That surely adds credence and validity to the other elements of His prophecy which are still future to us.

Bible students would need to read the descriptions given in Revelation, in harmony with today’s parashah, to fill out the picture of the events which are to take place. And we need to take great care to acknowledge that these words of Yeshua were spoken to a Jewish audience. They were actively looking for their Messiah. One who would rid them of the Roman oppression and cruelty.

What they could not comprehend was that this Man of Peace, this Torah observant Rabbi, this Person who had chastised them for their commercial activities in the Temple, the One who criticized and berated the Scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy, the One who had drawn to Himself a bunch of nondescript fishermen from Galillee as His disciples, could actually be Whom He claimed to be. The very Son of the Father. Their Messiah. But He still had work to do before that revelation would be obvious to them. Unlikely as it seems, He had to die on a Roman cross of shame, bearing their guilt, and ours, in His body, to reconcile humanity to a Holy God, our Father in Heaven.

Can you understand, as I can, that their very humanity got in the way of their understanding? And even more unlikely, it is exactly how God planned things, so that salvation would come to us, gentiles in the flesh.

His prophecy continues with the announcement about His return (verses 29-31). Understanding the Hebraic nature of these writings is pivotal to understanding the signs. Sure, no-one except the Father knows the day nor the hour, but we certainly know the season don’t we? The Apostle Paul knew (1 Cor 15:52 and 1 Thess 4:6). And Moses knew! Because God told him about His appointed times. Where are we told about Yom Teruah? Leviticus 23 spells out each of God’s mo’edim (appointed times). It is.as yet, the first of three unfulfilled prophetic gatherings. Yom Teruah, the Feast of Trumpets heralding Christ’s return, Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, heralding the great White Throne Judgement, and The Feast of Ingathering, (also known as Booths and Tabernacles) heralding the Marriage supper of the Lamb.

Who, reading this ‘reflection’, would not want to be part of that? No-one.

So the rest of this Scripture portion is taken up with the recipe for ensuring that a person qualifies for inclusion. Ah! I hear someone say, it’s not about anything we do, it’s all about faith. Quite right too. It is all about faith, BUT it is a faith which results in a change in lifestyle and attitude. Matthew 24;12 talks about “the love of many growing cold”. How? Because “lawlessness” abounds. What is “lawlessness”? The Greek word used is “anomia”. It is the negative translation of “Torah” (Torahlessness). We worship God by what we DO, not by what we say or think.

I remind you again, these words were addressed to JEWS. They understood precisely what He was saying. It is unfortunate that the gentile propensity to ‘christianize’ the text, causes us to miss some of the most elementary teachings of Yeshua. So as you read this Scripture passage again, take note of the urgent call to readiness in preparation for the return of Messiah Yeshua. His first entry into Jerusalem was on a donkey. His next visit will be on a White horse as leader of a battle, as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.           

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      10    

Torah portion                    Genesis 41 : 1 – 44 : 17 

Haftarah portion             Zechariah 2 : 14 – 4 : 7

Brit Hadashah                   Matthew 21:1  - 23 : 39

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Because we are working sequentially through the Gospels and Acts, there is no direct relationship between the weekly Torah and Haftarah readings and our gospel study each week. But there are frequent reminders of the Hebraic context of the gospel message. About 500 years earlier, God had caused Zechariah to make the most unlikely prophecy regarding the coming Messiah of Israel. “Behold your King is coming to you, He is just and having salvation (Hebrew ..Yeshua), lowly and riding on a donkey. A colt, the foal of a donkey”. In fact it was such a difficult concept for them that many Yeshiva Rabbi’s taught their students that there was some error in that wording, (Messiah was expected to be a mighty man of valour) but they did not know what.

Now bring that right up to the time of our reading. The nation under the oppressive rule of Roman masters. Every one expecting (or hoping) for the promised Messiah to arrive and relieve their misery by throwing out the oppressors and restoring the land back to their own management. He would surely be a strong authoritative person, instilling fear into the Roman armies.

“Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Loose them and bring them to Me”.

Those who have visited Israel will know the route well. Down the hill from the Mount of Olives, into the valley, then up the hill to the Lion’s Gate into the old City of Jerusalem. The Temple Mount on the left and the Antonio Fortress (where the Roman garrison was lodged) directly ahead. Can you hear the people shouting? “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest!”  This is it. He is going to throw the Romans out.

But Yeshua turned left!! Into the Temple courtyard He went and threw out the sales vendors and moneychangers.

“My house shall be called a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves.”  The Scribes, Pharisees, Sadducees and religious persons there would immediately know those references from the Hebrew Scriptures. Isaiah 56:7 (today most often quoted by Christians without reference to the conditional (Isaiah 56: 1-6) nature of that statement), and then Jeremiah 7:11, which, in its context, is a most damning expression of the hypocrisy of the people. (read Jeremiah 7 : 3-11 to see how well it fits with us today).

Yeshua is teaching pure Torah here. Just like most of us today, they expected Yeshua to remove obstacles, fight their battles, make things right etc. etc.. What He is saying, by His actions and His words is “Get yourselves right, with God and with each other.”  I am continually reminded as I study the Scriptures, that Yeshua is affirming, yet again, we worship God by what we DO not by what we say. In another place (Matthew 6:33) He says “Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be added to you.”  Nothing has changed. The blind, the lame and the sick knew Him and trusted Him. Those in real need, those of simple faith, those who cried out “Hosanna to the Son of David”. The religious amongst them remained indignant .. and lost.

In the remainder of Matthew 21 and into 22, Yeshua continues to teach the people by use of a number of parables using familiar ‘everyday’ examples. But then, His religious detractors, the Sadducees and the Pharisees lined up in their attempts to entrap Yeshua, using various ‘trick’ questions based on Scriptures. Here is a great example for those of us who are willing to learn. By His complete knowledge of the Scriptures, Yeshua was able to firmly, but gently quote correct application of those Scriptures to answer all the ‘trick’ questions which were thrown at Him. He did not employ opinion, or commentary, or third party views. Just the truth of the Scriptures. Chapter 22 ends with the triumphant statement:- “..nor from that day on did anyone dare question Him anymore.”

Matthew 23 should be obligatory reading for every Christian, especially for those who are, today, called into Christian leadership roles. It is a solemn warning about understanding the responsibilities assigned to those called into leadership within ‘religious’ communities, be they synagogues, churches or small home group fellowships. It is not easy reading. It specifically deals with the ‘religious order’ in Jerusalem in the first century. The system which caused Yeshua to describe many as ‘the lost sheep of the House of Israel’. But there is here, as in all Scripture, a timely message for us today as we prepare and look forward to, His return to rule and reign in Jerusalem.      

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections     09

Torah portion                      Genesis 37 : 1  – 40 : 23 

Haftarah portion              Amos 2 : 6 – 3 : 8

Brit Hadashah                   Matthew 19:1  - 20 : 34

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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“Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for just any reason? The question sounds ‘loaded to the hilt’, but it was not. On this occasion, the Pharisees wanted to know precisely where Yeshua stood on this issue. Understanding the Hebraic background gives enlightenment. Two of the most influential Rabbis of their day disputed the interpretation of “.. and it happens that she finds no favour in his eyes because ….” Deut. 24:1. (Bible students might ‘google’ Hillel and Shammai).  Shammai was one for very strict interpretation, declaring that ‘finding no favour’ meant adultery or other sexual immorality, whereas Hillel was infinitely more liberal, to the extent that ‘finding no favour’ even extended to a wife being a less than competent cook!

It would appear that in Western society today, the overwhelming majority of Christians probably fall solidly in the “Hillel” camp (without even knowing it!). Yeshua however, goes back to Genesis 2:24 to remind them of God’s expectation about this issue. Some years ago I heard David Pawson say (somewhat tongue in cheek) “To dwell above with saints I love, that would be GLORY. But to dwell below with those I know, that’s a different story”!  All Scripture, as the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, is “God inspired and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness …” Those who find themselves in a difficult marital situation could not be better advised than to seek the Lord’s counsel. The opinions of men vary so greatly, just look at the greatly respected Shammai and Hillel.

In spite of a clear instruction (Genesis 1:28) for people to be ‘fruitful and multiply’, the disciples of Yeshua opined that, because of unpleasant consequences which inevitably flow from divorce, it might be better not to marry at all. The response of Yeshua indicates that for some people this may well be a God given ministry to those who are able to accept it. But not everyone can.         (Our reading also contains the story of the wealthy young man who wants to find salvation. This encounter is repeated in Mark 10 and will be ‘reflected upon’ when we get to that passage of Scripture.)

We next come to the parable of the ‘landowner’. The likeness to the kingdom of heaven is fascinating, and the Jewish audience would initially have been somewhat perplexed by this reference. Their mindset would be very much influenced by the doctrines of the Pharisees and Sadducees, which was mainly encouraging of strict adherence to the Torah to warrant the ‘smile’ of God upon them. The longer they persisted in their obeisance, the better would be their reward.

The parable which Yeshua related was firstly to set the reward for the day’s work to be undertaken. One Denarius. Contract agreed, and off to work they went. As the day progressed, more workers were hired, with the promise that they would be paid “whatever is right”. At the end of the day’s work, the paymaster was called to pay the men, those hired last were paid first and so on. Everyone received One Denarius, the agreed amount for the first workers. No-one was cheated of anything, but there was discontent on the part of the first hired workers.

There may be several ways to interpret this parable, but the one that impresses me is that which the parable makes clear. The landowner had the absolute right to pay what he agreed to any and all the workers. Remember the beginning of the parable? That is what the kingdom of heaven is like. The landowner rewards as He will, without injustice to anyone. There is joy in heaven over every one who repents. Those who repent early in life and those who repent later in life. The reward of the Father is the same for all. And He is righteous in all His ways.

Matthew 20:17 records the beginning of Yeshua’s journey to Jerusalem for Pesach. It was to be His last Pesach on this earth. So He warns them of what is to come. Zebedee’s wife, Salome, asks Yeshua a favour for her sons. “Let my boys sit, one on your right and one on your left, in Your kingdom”. Yeshua gently and tenderly, I believe, told her that it was not His decision to make, but Father God had Himself prepared the order of things in heaven. Then He compared our human understanding of authority, a hierarchical line of superiority, (as we see in our churches today) with that of kingdom authority. I can almost hear the Master saying ‘I’ll give you the tip’. “Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave – just as the son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

That my friends, is the Hebraic message of Yeshua. We worship God by what we DO, not by what we say.     

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      08  

Torah portion                     Genesis 32 : 4  – 36 : 43 

Haftarah portion             Obadiah 1: 1 – 21

Brit Hadashah                   Matthew 16:1  - 18 : 35

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Just two weeks ago we found the Pharisees and Sadducees seeking a sign of Yeshua’s Messianic credentials. Here again our reading opens with the same request. “A sign, a sign .. give us a sign” they said. Yeshua gave the same answer He did the last time they asked, but not before charging them with hypocrisy.  The sign was that of the Prophet Jonah. A sign which they would not recognize for some little while, until after He was miraculously resurrected from the grave. But the sign was, and is, there for any who would discern it.

Yeshua then warned His disciples about the ‘leaven’ of the Pharisees. They did not immediately understand His analogy. But because He explained it’s meaning to them, we can also understand that He was talking about the ‘leaven’ of the sin of false doctrine.  The pervasiveness of which affected the whole group. (They were quite familiar with that, of course, because at their annual celebration of “Pesach”, they were careful to clean their homes of every trace of leaven). We see a parallel today. False doctrine is like ‘leaven’. It affects the whole. The false doctrine which the Pharisees and Sadducees were preaching was the heavy yoke of impenetrable fences around the Torah, one of which was dealt with in our reading last week. The ‘traditions of men’ Yeshua called them. In our fractured hierarchical church structures today there are many and various false doctrines on parade.  One might conclude that the presence of the multiplicity of denominational labels is one sign of potential falsity, because they cannot all be correct can they?

Then Yeshua moved into the area of personal perception of Himself. “Who do men say that I, the Son of man, am?” It was natural for Jews of that day to compare Yeshua with ‘heroes’ from their past history. Elijah, Jeremiah, another of the prophets, even John the baptizer (presumably from those who had not met him) all had a mention. I am personally curious as to why Moses name was not mentioned, maybe that would have been too Messianic!! In any event, Yeshua then put them right ‘on the spot’. “But who do you say that I am?” Good question eh? It is the question that requires an answer from every one of us. One’s answer to that question is so important that it has eternal consequences. The blunt, passionate and faithful Simon Peter, immediately answered Him. “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”  Yeshua’s response to that confession speaks volumes. It was a revelation that could ONLY be made by God Himself. But Yeshua’s response has been misunderstood too. It has been used as authority for establishment of the hierarchical earthly church, out of which much false doctrine has emanated.

The “rock” on which Yeshua’s ‘church’ was to be established is the “rock” of Peter’s confession. “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” There can be no other foundation. The CHURCH is comprised only of those who have, or will, make such a confession. Just attending a local congregation of believers does not make one a member of His ‘church’.

Chapter 17 contains the account of the transfiguration of Yeshua, wherin He appeared with both Moses and Elijah. Interestingly, Yeshua charged them not to talk about that to anyone until after His prophesised resurrection. His intent seemed to be that the confession referred to above must be made by people individually through revelation rather than by persuasion of men. 

Chapter 18 of our reading contains Yeshua’s instructions for dealing with disputation between brethren. It is Hebraic in form and substance, and was perfectly well understood when Yeshua spoke the words. It is direct, simple in form, and effective. But it is rarely, if ever, implemented today, because we have no Hebraic understanding of the process. Up to this very day, major synagogues establish a congregational “Beit Din” (House of Judgment). It comprises two or three men of good character, good standing, and good report from within the group. This comprises the court of last resort referred to in this passage. This is the “two or three gathered in My name”, where God promises to reside and ‘bind or loose’ their decisions.

In our day, this process is misunderstood to involve any gathering of believers. We may be sure that God does meet with all who come to Him in faithfulness and truth. But that is NOT what this passage is about.

A most interesting and informative portion of Scripture. Be blessed as you study it for yourself.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections     07

Torah portion                     Genesis 28 : 10–32 : 3 

Haftarah portion              Hosea 12:13–14:10

Brit Hadashah                   Matthew 14:1 - 15 : 39

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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One of the sons of Herod the Great, who was the ruler of Galilee and Perea on behalf of the Roman Emperor, had just had Yeshua’s cousin, John, beheaded at the revengeful whim of his sister-in-law, Herodias. The disciples of John came to tell Yeshua what had happened. Displaying His complete humanity, Yeshua sought solace in private. He took a boat to grieve in some quiet place. But a multitude of people followed around the Lake on foot. When Yeshua saw them, He was ‘moved with love’ for them, all 5,000 men, plus women and children, and healed their sick.

Out of their concern, the disciples suggested that they should just ‘close the meeting’ and send the people away to get food for themselves. “No, you feed them here” Yeshua said. The story is well known. The five loaves and two fish were ‘multiplied’ to feed everyone present, and have plenty left over.

Now there is an interesting Messianic message in this event. God had promised to send a “Prophet like Moses” (Deuteronomy 18). Moses was regarded as a ‘Messiah’ in that he freed the people from oppressive slavery in Egypt. He provided ‘manna’ on their wilderness journey. One of the expected characteristics of the Jewish Messiah was that He would free the people from oppressive servitude and provide bread, just like Moses did. Satan knew this and the first temptation he presented to Yeshua at the beginning of His ministry (Matthew 4) was to turn stones into bread, because he knew He could do it. In our reading today Yeshua miraculously provided bread for the people out of His compassion for them. It was an act of Messiah, but not then quite realized by all those who witnessed it.

He then spent time alone again and sent His disciples in a boat across to the other side of the Lake to Gennesaret. A storm arose, threatening the lives of the disciples. Yeshua used this occasion to again demonstrate His Messianic credentials, by miraculously walking on the water, drawing from them their conclusive declaration “Truly, You are the Son of God”. What a moment.

Chapter 15 of our text opens with another challenge from the Scribes and Pharisees. This time for not washing hands before eating. A perfectly good practice of cleanliness, but NOT a commandment of Torah. It was another of the ‘fences’ which the Rabbi’s had constructed around Torah which ensured that they did not unintentionally eat something which was forbidden! Yeshua was able to use their tradition by showing them how they had craftily circumnavigated the fifth commandment by “Corban” (given to God), saying that if their money was used for Temple purposes, they were ‘off the hook’ in looking after elderly parents. Yeshua uses a quotation from Isaiah to press the point. “These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honour Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrine the commandments of men”    Owch!!   Couldn’t be talking to us today, could He?

Then we have words from Yeshua which have been used by gentile believers to try to negate the Torah dietary commandments, but which are nothing of the kind. “Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man, but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man”. At Peter’s request, Yeshau explains more fully what He means in verses 16 -20. It is about the challenge of the Pharisees about unwashed hands, not about food in general. All Jewish believers of the first century, including the Apostle Paul (see Acts 28:17 two years before his death in Rome) were Torah observant disciples of Yeshua.

A final ‘refelection’ relates to Yeshua’s encounter with the Canaanite woman of great faith in the coastal region of Northern Israel. It is to this lady that Yeshua declared, as He had done with His disciples in Matthew 10, that His mission on earth was exclusively to “the lost sheep of the house of Israel”. (Notwithstanding that, He still healed the lady’s daughter). It is well that we remind ourselves that Yeshua was ministering principally to these Jewish folk for all His time on earth. The parables, examples, phraseology and conversation was taken out of His earthly Judaism. We are prone to misunderstand what He was saying when we attempt to ‘gentilize’ Him. And, furthermore, He will return to this earth one day as King of the Jews, reigning from Jerusalem. A day when our Bible tells us “All Israel will be saved”. Amazing.

Our reading closes with another miraculous provision of bread to a great gathering of people in the Galilee region.  

 Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      06    

Torah portion               Genesis 25 : 19  – 28 : 9 

Haftarah portion        Malachi 1: 1 – 2: 7

Brit Hadashah              Matthew 12:1  - 13 : 58

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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We ended last week by ‘reflecting’ on the heavy ‘yoke’ which the Pharasaic Rabbi’s had made for the people by constructing ‘fences’ around the Torah to make certain that none of the commandments was unintentionally broken. Chapter 12 opens with an example of such a ‘fence’. The Sabbath instructions include “doing no customary work”. Harvesting grain is “customary work”. They observed Yeshua’s disiciples plucking grain to eat as they passed through a field of grain on the Sabbath. “Gotcha” they said. There are many other ‘fences’ which observant Jews feel compelled to observe today, which non-Jews see as unnecessary and restrictive. It is a matter of regret that many gentile believers ridicule the Torah of God on the basis of some of these ‘fences’. In so doing, “the baby has been thrown out with the bathwater!” Yeshua was quick to illustrate, from the Scriptures, the unreasonable nature of some of these ‘fences’. In other places in the Scriptures He refers to them as “the traditions of men”. He declares that “He (in His role of Messiah) is Lord of the Sabbath.” And in saying that, He is telling them that what He is teaching is the true Torah of God, which is what they should be observing.

And if we count ourselves disciples of Messiah Yeshua, so should we!

The Pharisees then wanted some ‘sign ‘from Yeshua that He was indeed the Messiah of God. His response was short and pointed. These Pharisees knew the Scriptures. “The only sign you will get is the sign of the Prophet Jonah” He said. They understood that perfectly, but He knew that it would be some time before they would actually see that sign. Now here we have a problem for gentile believers today. The ‘sign’ is ‘the sign” right? Accepting that is not difficult for us because we have the historical account in verification. We also know that Yeshua was put into the tomb the day before the Sabbath of “Unleavened Bread”. It is all very clear. Why then do we persist in celebrating that on the pagan festival of Easter? Agile Christian theologians have tried to make the ‘sign’ work, with an Easter observance, but it never will. God has clearly indicated (Deuteronomy 12) that He would not be worshipped in the high places of pagan worship. When, if ever, will we wake up?

Matthew chapter 13 is the great chapter of “Kingdom of God” parables. Our Bibles use the phrase “Kingdom of Heaven”. They are the same. Even today, Jews will not use the word “God” or His proper Name YHWH (another ‘fence’ to comply with the third commandment regarding ‘taking the name of the Lord in vain’). The Torah does not forbid the use of His name. But it forbids profanity. Hence the ‘fence’.

Yeshua said that He spoke in parables in order to fulfil the prophecy of Isaiah. The main issue regarding these parables of the Kingdom, is that all the “Kingdom is like … ” are examples taken from their everyday life, in agriculture and the home. Easily understood. The sower of seed, which does not all fall on fertile ground. The wheat and tares growing together. The small mustard seed which grows into a big bush. The leaven which affects the whole dough. A treasure hidden in a field. The pearl of great price. The dragnet of the fisherman.

Today, there would be other examples which may be cited, but in Yeshua’s day, every one of them had real meaning to the hearers. And the resulting message is the same today as it was then. The Kingdom of Heaven is worth all it might cost you, and there is a cost! It is a privilege to be included, and worthy of our best endeavours to secure. All the more reason to order our lives in accord with the instructions God Himself has laid down for our understanding. The solemn warning of Matthew 7:23 should be ringing in our ears as we seek to be part of God’s Kingdom. Simply put, there is no mystery about it, it is the Kingdom where God reigns. Yeshua came to seek the “lost sheep of the house of Israel”. We talked last week about how they got lost. But, praise God, many were found again and restored to a place of right living.

There is a salutary lesson to end our refection today. Yeshua went back to Capernaum (His own country the Bible says). He taught them in their local synagogue. No doubt the message would be no different to that which He taught in other towns and villages. But in Capernaum they said “Where did this fellow get all this knowledge, He is the carpenter’s son isn’t He? We know His mother, His brothers and His sisters. Who does He think He is?” Their familiarity bred contempt. They discounted His message, and it would be true to surmise that they missed out on great blessing as a result. Let us not fall into the trap of familiarity.                          

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      05        

Torah portion                 Genesis 23 : 1 – 25 : 18 

Haftarah portion          1 Kings 1: 1 - 31

Brit Hadashah                Matthew 9:1  - 11 : 30

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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After the episode with the demons and the pigs, Yeshua returned, across the Sea of Galilee, to Capernaum, which is referred to as ‘His own city’. His healing ministry was well known, and a man who was paralysed was brought to Him. Recognizing their demonstration of faith by so doing, Yeshua saw an opportunity to both heal the man and demonstrate His credentials as the Messiah of God. In paraphrase, He said “Cheer up son, your sins are forgiven”. Discerning the thoughts of some of the religious Scribes, that He had overstepped the mark with that statement, He said “Would you prefer that I just told him to get up and walk?”  Which He then did.

In their eyes, Almighty God alone had the power to forgive their sin. Yeshua appropriated that power to Himself, and backed it up with the miraculous healing of paralysis. He was demonstrating that He had power to do both. That He was in fact “One” with the Father. Healing is the most recognizable act of the power of God. Forgiving sin is the most valuable. Upon seeing the faith of the paralysed man, Yeshua gave him the most valuable gift He could. He forgave his ‘sin’. To demonstrate that, He then healed him.

Chapter 9 contains other examples of miraculous healing. Verse 35 tells us that Yeshua spent much time teaching, preaching and healing people of every sickness and disease, in their synagogues. There is no doubt in my mind that at the same time, those who, by faith, were healed, were also forgiven of their ‘sin’. The ‘sin’ of which they were forgiven is made clear in the next chapter of our text.

A ‘disciple’ is a student and close follower of another person. His goal was to be, to act, even to dress and learn mannerisms which reflect the character and attributes of his Master. Yeshua empowered His disciples (‘Talmidim’ in Hebrew) to also demonstrate this miraculous healing gift. He then commissioned them to go into the towns and villages of the region and seek out “the lost sheep of the house of Israel”. We discover later that He told a Canaanite woman that His mission on earth was ONLY to the house of Israel. So how did these Israelites get lost? The short answer is through ‘sin’ which separates one from God. But the specific ‘sin’ from which they were required to repent (turn away from) was the sin of living a life of “Torahlessness”. (see Matthew 7:23) You see, to live righteously, as required by Torah, covers everything that we normally associate as ‘sinfull”. Yeshua is “the living Torah”, sinless, perfect, without blemish. And that is exactly how the first century believers would understand this passage of Scripture. Our difficulties today arise from having being taught that Torah is obsolete!

In chapter 11 we find John the Baptizer languishing in prison. John had incurred the wrath of Herod Antipas by criticizing his choice of his Sister in Law as a wife. Just like every other citizen, John had the expectation that the Messiah would be forceful in ridding them of their tyrannical Roman invaders. There had been no news of uprising or overthrow of government. Everything seemed to be rolling along without change. So John sent two of his own disciples to find out what was happening. Yeshua told them what to say to John. Verses 4-6, contain references to the Isaiah Scroll, which John would immediately recognize, which speak of the time when Messiah comes. Yeshua is confirming to John that He is indeed the One. Then Yeshua told the crowd of followers about the role of John the Baptizer. “What did you expect him to look like?” He said. “He is nothing like the stereotype” Then He quoted from Malachi 3:1 to identify John as the forerunner to Messiah.

Finally, for this ‘reflection’, we have those oft quoted words of Yeshua, “Come to Me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me…”. The ‘yoke’ is almost invariably a metaphor for Torah in the Scriptures. The “Talmud” and the “Mishnah” are Rabbinic rulings which have put a ‘heavy yoke’ of restriction surrounding the Torah to ensure that the commands are not accidentally broken. And it IS a heavy yoke. Yeshua is telling His followers that “His ‘yoke’ is easy and His burden light”. It is the same Torah, but is meant as an aid to righteous living, so that all in the community can enjoy life to the full, in harmony and in love. God intended the Torah to provide safety and peaceful co-existence for all. The judgmental Rabbinic rulings and interpretations, ‘the traditions of men’, caused many to abandon that altogether. And so they got ‘lost’. Yeshua’s mission was to restore them into right relationship, with the Father, and with each other.                                                                     

Shabbat Shalom

RS  

Brit Hadashah Reflections     04    

Torah portion               Genesis 18 : 1 – 22 : 24 

Haftarah portion       2 Kings 4: 1 - 37

Brit Hadashah             Matthew 7:1  - 8 : 34

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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“Judge not, that you be not judged.”

What an opening to this week’s reading. Yeshua did plenty of judging. Paul did plenty of judging. We are told elsewhere in the Scriptures to judge the prophets, and to be careful of the company we keep (which is a form of judgement). So what does this mean? In the context of this discourse, which we call ‘the sermon on the mount’, it means to take your eye off what others are doing and concentrate on your own position. Time here does not allow for a complete reflection on that sermon, but sufficient to say, read it ALL in one reading, and you will discover that the general thrust is about repentance from past allegiances (to the traditions of men) and to turn (repent) to the correct observances of the Torah which God gave to Moses, on another mountain, centuries earlier.

Yeshua then states that the gate is narrow, and difficult is the way that leads to life. What a challenge that should be to the ‘greek mindset’ of those who preach a prosperity gospel in our day if they took heed to the words of Yeshua. “Come to Jesus and all your problems will be solved” is the disingenuous message of those who should know better. “Make a verbal proclamation of faith and you are in” is the equally deceptive call. Where in our churches today do we hear the call to repentance? To turning around. To right living.

Look carefully at chapter 7 verses 22,23. Probably the most judgemental words in the whole of the Scriptures. Do you think, as I do, that there may be many very disappointed people when ‘the roll is called up yonder’?  Even though the consistent message throughout the Scriptures is that God requires obedience to His instructions for righteous living (Torah) from ALL who are His. Many of our churches today persist in teaching that the Torah of God is obsolete. Well, let us look just one more time at Matthew 7:23. “And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me you who practice Torahlessness (‘anomia’ in greek). How plain is that? It is more than plain, it is frighteningly plain.

Now, the first century audience of Yeshua would not have had the slightest difficulty in understanding the message. Torah observance was the way of life for them, from which they had become diverted. Most of us (gentile believers) were taught from childhood that Torah was obsolete. It is only when one reads the Scriptures through Hebraic eyes that the truth becomes crystal clear.

And what does Yeshua tell us is our reward? We will be likened to a wise man, who built on rock and not on sand. So when trials and tribulation appears, we will be established on solid foundations. What a privilege. Following this discourse, there are two examples of divine healing recounted. The first, a leper, was Jewish. When he was healed Yeshua told him to go and show himself to the local priest. This was pure, simple Torah observance.  (Torah reflection “Tazaria” on Leviticus 13 for my comment).

The second was a Roman Centurion, a man of authority in Capernaum. His great faith was used to intercede on behalf of his faithful servant. Yeshua used this occasion to prophecy that many non-Jews would be included in the Kingdom of heaven. The basis of that inclusion is by faith alone. However, it is reasonable to conclude that such faith would manifest itself in more than mere words. On the basis of the earlier statement in Matthew 7:23 above, such faith should lead us to live, to actually practice, the life prescribed by God Almighty for those who are His. The Apostle Paul referred to this (Romans 11) inclusion as a ‘grafting in’ to the natural Olive Tree, which is Israel.The text continues with even more people healed, drawing Matthew to remember the prophecy in Isaiah 53 about Messiah bearing our sickness in His own body.

But there is one more observation to be made from the very last verse of our passage. It seems unthinkable that a whole town would band together to implore Yeshua to leave them. To go away and not come back. The reason would appear to be that they had been persuaded by the swine herders, into whose pigs the demons had entered before they were drowned, that Yeshua was bad for business! It is true today isn’t it. If you are running a business that trades on the Sabbath, and people were persuaded to observe the Sabbath commandment (very few of us do), it would be very bad for that business. BUT our first century believers had no difficulty in keeping that commandment. It was their way of life.                   

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections      03

Torah portion                     Genesis 12 : 1 – 17 : 27 

Haftarah portion              Isaiah 40 : 27 – 41 : 16

Brit Hadashah                   Matthew 5:1 - 6:34

 Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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Yeshua had taken up residence in the Galilee region of Northern Israel. Evidently, people had heard of His remarkable healing ministry and travelled great distances to see Him, hear Him speak, and to be healed of all manner of sickness and disability. The audience, completely Jewish.

Even today, in the place known as Tabgha, just above Capernaum, it is possible, to imagine the scene with which our text opens today. On gently sloping ground, the Sea of Galilee spread out below them, the Master sitting on the grass and teaching the very large crowd who had gathered to hear Him. Hanging on every word, they heard Him bless and comfort those who are ‘poor in spirit’, ‘those who mourn’, ‘the meek’, ‘those who hunger and thirst for righteousness’, ‘the merciful’, ‘the pure in heart’, ‘the peacemakers’, and ‘those persecuted for righteousness sake’. No one who is a true follower of Yeshua is excluded from the blessing and promise of great reward for their perseverance.

Using His followers as a symbol of light in a dark world, He urges them to let that light shine before men. And what is the evidence of that light? It is the good works that we do in His name. The good works which bring blessing to those around us, and glory to our Father in heaven, Here is the outworking of the Hebrew mindset. We worship God by what we do, not by what we say! The Greek mindset talks about it, the Hebrew mindset does it, lives it, and shows it in action. We praise God in our words, we worship Him in our actions.

The next verse clarifies how they were to make good on letting that light shine. It is by taking heed to the instructions God gave to Moses on the mountain, in words known as the Torah. Yeshua’s Jewish audience would have had no difficulty understanding what He was saying. It was as clear as the nose on their face! But this statement is so immensely underrated and misunderstood by gentile believers. “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law (Torah) or the Prophets (their words of chastisement and encouragement), I did not come to destroy but to fulfil (Greek ‘pleroo’). It is the word ‘fulfil’ which has been so misunderstood. In spite of the clarity of the statement that ‘destruction’ of the Torah was never His objective, we are still taught in many of our churches that ‘fulfil’ (Greek ‘pleroo’) still means bringing Torah  to a close, ending, making obsolete, doing away with. But the correct translation of that word ‘pleroo’ is ‘to give full and complete meaning to’, or ‘making full’.

As evidence of this, that Greek word ‘pleroo’ is used in some other notable places in our Bible. In Philippians 2:2 Paul says” ‘pleroo’ my joy by being like-minded”. In 1 Colossians 2:26 he says “… which was given to me for you to ‘pleroo’ the word of God”. And 1 Colossians 4:17, “take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may ‘pleroo’ it”. Then another in 2 Thessalonians 1:11 “.. that our God would count you worthy of His calling, and ‘pleroo’ all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power”. In all these places, just like Matthew 5:17, the word ‘pleroo’ is translated as fulfil.

Then as if to hit the point home with additional force, the Master declares that “not one jot or tittle (in the Hebrew language this refers to the smallest letter and emphasis point) will pass from the Torah until all is fulfilled”. And that, my friends will be when He returns to this earth in triumph to rule and reign from Jerusalem. But there is more !!  Anyone who teaches that the Torah is obsolete will be least in the kingdom of heaven. Wow!! Does ANYONE believe that our beloved Apostle Paul will be ‘least in the kingdom of heaven’? Because what we are taught about Paul in many of our churches today would relegate him to that unenviable position.

Our text continues with the Master teaching Torah Himself. Not the bald re-statement of the commandment, but in explanation, expanding the fullest meaning of the commandment. For example, He likens murder to being angry without cause. Commiting adultery to looking at a woman in lust. Loving your neighbour to include those who see themselves as your enemy. Far from being an expression of obsolescence of Torah, the Master teaches that we are to embrace the very essence and sense of the commandments in the way we think, as well as the way we act. As always, there is so much more to learn from this “sermon on the mount”. A good note to conclude this ‘reflection’ is with chapter 6:33. “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, (which the Torah explains in detail of how to live righteously) and all these things will be added to you.”  His Jewish audience understood this completely.                  

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   02        

Torah portion                     Genesis 6:9  – 11:32 

Haftarah portion              Isaiah 54:1 – 55:5

Brit Hadashah                   Matthew 3:1  - 4:25

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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John the Baptiser, was only six months older than Yeshua. The priests (John was the son of Zechariah, a ‘cohen’) undertook many years of study before beginning to perform their Temple duties. And that was generally at the age of 30. This would indicate that there is a significant time gap between the end of Chapter 2 of our text and chapter 3. However, John did not take up his Temple duties, instead we find him living very simply in a desert place, where people came to him for ministry.

We also see, verse 3, that Matthew recognized the authority of John by reference to the Isaiah Scroll (an almost complete copy of which is today carefully preserved and exhibited in “The Shrine of the Book” museum in Jerusalem”).  John had a clear and singular message. “Repent and be baptized”. Why? “Because the Kingdom of God is at hand.”

John did not invent Baptism. It was a very familiar practice amongst Jews. It was the ritual of immersion for the purpose of cleansing oneself in order to appear before a holy God. Religious men would immerse themselves before prayers three times a day. (In Jerusalem today, men visiting the “Kotel” will wash their hands before entering the compound adjacent to the wall in symbolic cleansing). All over Israel, in many excavation sites, there is much evidence of numerous “Mikvah”. The Hebrew word for the open baths where this ritual cleansing took place. Both in homes and in public places.

Repentance is evidenced by a ‘turning around’. A change of lifestyle. A commitment to act differently in this case. So what was the ‘sin’ that was being repented of? Why was John so vehement in his condemnation of the Pharisees and Sadducees who came to him to receive his baptism? It was because the sin (the ‘chata’ in Hebrew) was their neglect of living according to the Torah lifestyle which God required of them. And what was the lifestyle from which repentance was required? It was that preached, practised and taught by the Pharisees and Sadducees. Otherwise known in the Scriptures as “the traditions of men”. John went further with these Pharisees and Sadducees. He told them that they should ‘bear fruits worthy of repentance’. In other words, don’t just talk about it, DO it.

How do we know this? We will discover later in Matthew’s gospel that Yeshua clearly taught that His mission on earth was ONLY to the ‘lost sheep of the House of Israel’. They became ‘lost’ through their disobedience. Replacing the Torah of God with the ‘traditions of men’.

Chapter 3 of our text concludes with the dialogue about baptism between Yeshua and John. Why was it necessary that Yeshua, the very Son of God, indeed, God incarnate in human form, be baptised with water at all? The answer is in the example that was set by such action. Yeshua is the living Torah. Practicing God’s instructions for righteous living, perfect in every way according to the Torah given to Moses. He complied with every condition of the Torah, as Prophet when He walked this earth, as Priest, now interceding before His father on our behalf, and eventually when He returns to rule and reign as King.

When He submitted to the Baptism in water by John, Matthew records that a voice was heard, coming from Heaven and saying “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” Are they not words every son would like to hear from his father’s lips? To the extent then, that we are ‘joint heirs’ with Messiah in the Father’s eyes, and therefor sons of the Father, should we not act in a manner which draws such words from our Heavenly Father ourselves?  Yeshua drew such words by His obedience to God’s commands. A timely lesson for us today perhaps as we contemplate our present lifestyle, and ponder whether or not John’s call to repentance is appropriate for us too.

Chapter 4 of our text deals with Satan’s temptations of Messiah. The noteworthy element of that account is the way in which Yeshua dealt with every statement of promise made by Satan. Yeshua accurately quoted from the Scriptures, correcting the quotation errors made by Satan, and standing firmly on the authority of the true Word of God.

Then, following that, Yeshua Himself commenced His ministry of teaching. What was His message? “Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand”. And so He gathered to Himself, men, ordinary men, who could be trained in the ways of life and obedience. Men, not from a religious background with ‘baggage’ to carry, but men who had a simple faith in Yeshua as the Messiah of God. He still seeks those who will follow Him in simple faith and obedience.     

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Brit Hadashah Reflections   01    

Torah portion                      Genesis 1 : 1  – 6 : 8 

Haftarah portion               Isaiah 42 : 5 – 43 : 10

Brit Hadashah                   Matthew 1:1  - 2:23

Hebraic understanding of the Gospel of Yeshua

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As we begin our third series of ‘reflections’, we look at the Gospels and Acts, seeking to see those writings in the context of first century life. At the same time to discover truths for our generation. The plan is to work sequentially through the Gospels and Acts, so there is no specific relevance of the weekly ‘reflection’ to the assigned Torah and Haftarah reading for a particular week.

It is quite natural for us to interpret the words of Scripture with contemporary familiarity, often without regard for original context.  Most of us have been trained by our upbringing to see our world with a distinctively “greek” mindset. Jesma O’Hara, in her book “In Our Image” (page 50) gives an excellent appraisal of the differences between “Greek thought” and “Hebraic thought”. I commend it to you. In simplistic essence, she describes Greek thought as being quite subjective in nature, concerning itself with a knowledge of truth. Hebraic thought is concerned more with function. The actual doing and living of truth.

We seem to have been ‘trained’ to see Yeshua, sanitized from his Jewish upbringing and Judaic practises, with a distinctly ‘gentilized’, anti-semitic bias. But a more accurate understanding is gained by taking account of the original Hebraic context in which His words and actions transpired.

Our reading opens with a ‘bang’. This is about Yeshua, who was the Son of David, who was the Son of Abraham. His Messianic credentials specified immediately. King David was crowned king in Hebron, Judea. He reigned there for seven years before moving to Jerusalem, eventually becoming King over ALL Israel. That David was a descendant of Abraham is unquestioned.

An early lesson for us here is in relation to His actual name, which most English language Bibles tell us is JESUS. He was obviously born into a Jewish family, and His Hebrew name is YESHUA. It was transliterated into English, through the Greek, as JESUS. Why is this significant? Because the word, and hence the name, YESHUA in Hebrew, means SALVATION in English. It is a word still in use in the Hebrew language today, and there are many references to that translation in our Scriptures. A good concordance will give you all the evidence you need for this.

Read again Matthew 1:21, using the Hebrew name for our Saviour. “And she shall bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name YESHUA, for He will save His people from their sins.”  Now doesn’t that make good sense?

Chapter 2 of our reading confirms the place of birth of Yeshua. There were people, referred to as “wise men”, who came to Jerusalem seeking the Messiah of God. Naturally, they expected “the King” would be born in the capital city. It is evident that God had miraculously conveyed to them the news of His birth. Upon their enquiry, Herod called together learned men, priests and scribes, in order to discover the place of Messiah’s birth.

Bethlehem was prophesied by Micah to be that place (Micah 5:2). And a little later in the text, another prophetic fulfilment, from Hosea 11:1. Whoever would have expected the Jewish Messiah would be called out of Egypt? These prophecies are remarkable in that they were made some 500 years earlier. But, of course, Satan also had knowledge of Messiah’s arrival, and pulled out all the stops to bring His life to an early end. But to no avail.

There is an interesting comment in Matthew 2:23 regarding Nazareth being the place where Yeshua would live and be brought up. But there is no written account in the Scriptures about this prophetic statement. Jews of the first century would know, (as Daniel Lancaster of FFOZ points out) that ‘Netzeret’ (Nazareth) in Hebrew from the root word ‘netzer’ which means branch or sprout, had a connection with the prophetic announcement in Isaiah 11:1,2 regarding ‘the shoot which will come from the stump of Jesse’, which accurately describes the person of Messiah.

Furthermore, the early followers of Yeshua were called “Notzrim” (branches), because they were followers of “the Netzer”, the Branch. Now isn’t that interesting?                  

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah reflections    53

Torah portion              Deuteronomy 33:1 – 34:12

Haftarah portion       Joshua 1: 1 - 18   

Listen to the Prophets

This week sees then end of the annual reading cycle. Our final parashah for the year. In it, Moses had just died. The faithful Joshua, son of Nun, colleague of Caleb, is appointed by God to lead the new nation of Israel into the land of Promise. It seems symbolic of the fact that next week we begin again, entering a new year of readings, and a new year of discovery of what God has in store for us.

God showed immense faith in Joshua. The promises of God, given at this inauguration were unequivocal, unconditional, and plain. “Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you (not will give you, but have given you) as I said to Moses.” It was a done deal. ‘From the Euphrates River, all the land of the Hittites, to the Mediterranean.’ The Hittites were descendants of Heth, they were an important Canaanite group, and their land was extensive. It was a Hittite, Ephron, who sold the ‘cave at Machpelah’ to Abraham as a burial place!

Now it is interesting that the Land of Promise is specified in a number of places in Scripture, (students among us, look at Genesis 15, Exodus 23, Numbers 34, Deuteronomy 11 and Ezekiel 47), so here in Joshua 1 it seems that the Lord instructs Joshua that in order to possess the land all he has to do is to set foot in it. He cannot, (i.e. will not be able to), take more than is promised.

However, from other Scriptures we know that the Canaanites don’t simply walk off the land, they have to be driven out, sometimes with significant loss of life. But God has not finished with His proclamation to Joshua. He goes on to bolster him with many encouraging statements. They are words which are often appropriated to ourselves as a timely encouragement for the fulfilment of some perceived God given task. Perhaps we should take careful note of the relationship God had with Joshua before making overly presumptive claims for ourselves! But they are very encouraging words anyway. Just look at them.

“No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life”       

As I was with Moses, so shall I be to you”                                                      

“I will not leave you nor forsake you”

These are immensely reassuring words from Almighty God. They are words, which, to a lesser person, might engender pride and even arrogance. But not to Joshua. Because there is an over-riding clause in this encouragement. When we presumptuously appropriate these promises to ourselves, we should, but often do not, look at the condition God made for the success which Joshua was to enjoy.

“Be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do all the Torah which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go”. And if that was not enough, the Lord continues .. “This Book of the Torah shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it.”

Dear friends, God is not encouraging Joshua to fight battles, to do exploits, to clear the Land of the Canaanites, to lead a great army in warfare, or even to stand before the people in judgement. This is an encouragement to Joshua to be strong and faithful to God’s Word. To have the courage to stand up to the dissenters in his midst. To put scoffers in their place, so to speak. To be strong in upholding the Torah of Moses before the people. Inevitably, that would require Joshua to be an example. Unwavering. Steadfast. Consistent.

When we see such a record of God’s promises to His servants, like Joshua, are we ready to also take on board the conditions under which such promises are given?

If you doubt God’s righteous judgement in His promises, move on a few chapters and read how and why God chastised the people by defeat in the battle for Ai.

As we enter a new year of study in God’s Word, let us covenant with Him to learn the lessons which are contained therein. Let us ask God to prompt us by His Holy Spirit, to be the kind of believers, doers of His Word, that He has called us to be.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah reflections    52

Torah portion              Deuteronomy 32:1 - 52

Haftarah portion      2 Samuel 22: 1 - 51

Listen to the Prophets

King David had reigned in Israel for 40 years. Under his leadership, Israel had prospered and had largely subdued their enemies. In our parashah today, we find the ageing David in a reflective mood. There had been some recent fierce battles with the descendants of Goliath the Gittite. David had been successful in battle, but, the Scriptures tell us that during these altercations, “David grew faint”. His close friends and associates told him that he was no longer to lead them in battles. It was time for him to step back from the fray.

We are privileged to have, in our parashah today, this appreciation, in words that perhaps only David could express, so that we may ponder and wonder at the amazing relationship which David had with the Lord.

Because of his ageing frailty, he has been kept away from the stresses of the battleground. Yet he writes “The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer: the God of my strength, in whom I will trust.”  He had seen many battle victories. Many might have taken pride in those achievements, in their own tactical prowess, in their own leadership skills. Not David. He knew very well that when he was anointed to be king (1Samuel 16:13), that the spirit of the LORD was upon him from that time forward. He never forgot it. It was the abiding presence of God, in his life, that sustained him. When he stumbled, and he sometimes did, he was quick to confess his error and to put things right with God. What an example.

This song, for that is what we are ‘reflecting’ upon this week, provides many lessons for us today. “I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised. So shall I be saved from my enemies”.  We do not have the kind of enemies, who are plotting to take our lives such as David had. But we do have difficulties to overcome. Enemies of our soul, enemies of our body and mind. Enemies who are intent on dragging us down. Is “calling on the LORD” our first option? Or is it when all else fails? Where is our trust? It is clear where David put his trust isn’t it? A good lesson.

David’s reflective memory caused him to recall the many times when God had rescued him. He sees his enemies pursuing him and God hunting them down. He sees God as a consuming fire. One against whom no-one can stand. And it is Almighty God who is at David’s side.

“The LORD rewarded me according to my righteousness” he said. That’s a bit of a shock isn’t it? Can it be? God is not a respecter of persons. (Peter in Acts 10 and Paul in Romans 2) He does not play favourites. So if it is right for David, it’s right for others too. Even us! It is clear from what follows that David is referring to his obedience to the commands of God. It certainly does not mean his own righteousness, self-righteousness, because we are also told in Scripture (Isaiah 64) that that kind of righteousness God sees as ‘filthy rags’.

“As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him”. David is unable to see any fault in God. In all his experience he has found God faithful and true. And remember, David had been in some perilous scrapes in his life. There were times when, without God’s protection, he would surely have lost his life. Of all people, David might be the most trustworthy advocate of God’s perfect protection, His provision, His counsel. The Word of the Lord of which David writes is found in the Torah of Moses. It is found in the counsel of the Priests. Zadok in particular. For a more exhaustive appreciation of David’s view of the Word of the Lord, read Psalm 119.

“He makes my feet like the feet of deer”. Deer are sure-footed. They are fast runners. But it is also possible that David also had in mind the sure-footed animals (Ibex) which today may be seen in the slopes of the Ein Gedi valley at the Dead Sea, which was once a hiding place for David. He sees God’s protection in the special skills attributed to these wild animals which allowed his to escape from his enemies many times. That is also a picture of God’s protection, as they are able to safely navigate terrain which to most would be exceptionally hazardous.

“Let God be exalted, the Rock of my salvation”. Perhaps the finest lesson of all for us this week. Here, as in many of his other songs, the Psalms, Davis is ever ready to give God Praise for just who He is. Not for what He has done, but for who He is.

“O Lord our God, how excellent is Your Name in all the Earth.”

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah reflections    51   

Torah portion                Deuteronomy 31:1 - 30

Haftarah portion        Hos 14:1–9 Mic 7:18-20 Joel 2: 15-27  

Listen to the Prophets

This week we look at the words of three prophets, called by God to take a specific message to different groups of people at different times. Yet in God’s wisdom and grace, they each have a message which was not only for their time, but resonates strongly with us today. It is a timely message. Be blessed as you study these Scriptures with me.

Hosea was given the task of warning the Northern Kingdom of Israel about their wanton disregard of, and unfaithfulness to, their covenantal promises. It was likened to the harlotry of an unfaithful wife, and to show Hosea the depth of His feeling about this situation, God caused Hosea to take the unfaithful Gomer, a prostitute, as a wife. What a painful experience that must have been for Hosea. But he understood exactly what God felt for Israel, His beloved. Hosea eventually witnessed the judgement of God on the unrepentant Israel when, in 722 b.c.e. the nation was taken captive by the Assyrians under the leadership of king Shalamanezer V.

Micah, a contemporary of Hosea, (as well as Amos, Isaiah and Jonah) also witnessed the downfall of Israel, but his message was principally to the Southern Kingdom of Judea. His concern was that Judea was treading the same perilous idolatrous path that Israel had walked.  Like Amos, he was a ‘man from the country’, and he could plainly see the way the ‘city people’ (Jerusalemites) were uncaring of the poor in their community. His prophetic writings (because we have the convenience of chapter delineations), may be viewed in three sections. The prediction of judgement Chapters 1-3, the prediction of restoration Chapters 4,5 and the plea for repentance Chapters 6,7. Our parashah today is covered in the last mentioned.

Joel is more difficult to date. Scholars believe he pre-dated the other two by about 100 years, in which case he would have been a contemporary of Elisha. His detailed knowledge of Zion, and references to the priesthood cause some to think that he might well have been a priest himself. But his message, mostly remembered because of his references to the coming “day of the Lord” is consistent with both Hosea and Micah in that he pronounced judgement. His descriptions of locust plagues, famine, raging fires and invading armies is interspersed with hope for the future.

So what is our lesson from these three men of God for today?

Obviously, the times, in terms of lifestyle and environment have changed markedly. But attitudes and lifestyle practises seem to be unchanged. Men are still dismissive, or indifferent, to the claims of God on their lives. Idolatry, in its many forms, is rife in our society. There are many prophetic voices today proclaiming the coming day of the Lord. There are also some ominous signs, available to any who care to look, that we are in a period which the Bible describes as ‘last days’. But in arrogant disregard, the world is not listening. Just as the Israelites and Judeans in our parashah did not listen.

The good news is that God has not given up. Our three prophetic voices this week all tell of the fact that God has the last word. That does not mean that His righteous judgement is withheld, but His covenantal promises are assured. Plan A, if you like, is in the true, heart rending repentance of the people. It involves an act of will for sure, but it is more than just in the mind. It is a repentance that brings about a necessary, willing, change of lifestyle. That is the message of God which is conveyed in our parashah this week. But in the absence of that repentance, God’s righteous judgment precedes His restoration, and in a way that is both assured and costly. God alone is the Judge of our righteousness before Him, and how that is acquired and maintained. There are many words in our Bibles to guide us in the right direction. There are also many words of warning to those who choose to ignore His direction. God’s patterns are set out for us in our weekly reflections on His word.

Our study this week is sad, in the fact that we know that the audience addressed by the prophets ignored the warnings. That record alone leaves us without excuse, because we clearly see God acting in righteous judgement according to His word to them.

The message of hope, God’s restoration, was not seen by those who heard the message at first hand from the prophets. Israel’s restoration, the New Covenant, is assured, in God’s time, in God’s way. We, Gentiles, are privileged to participate in that restoration, by our faith in Yeshua Ha’Mashiach. That faith is born of repentance, just like the prophets told the Israelites in our parashah.                   

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Torah Reflections   M6

Torah portions               Leviticus 22:26 to 23:44  and Numbers 29 :12 - 16

Haftarah portion          Zechariah 14 : 1-21

Listen to the Prophets

Leviticus 23 and Deuteronomy 16 have the commandments about annual observances of the “mo’edim”. (The Hebrew word for “appointed times”, which in turn is usually translated into English as “feasts”). These are times when God specified He would meet with His chosen ones.

Today, they are most often referred to as “Jewish Feasts”. That correctly describes the fact that they are observances remembered by Jews. But it is an incorrect understanding of the Scriptures.

When God gave these instructions to Moses, He carefully worded these ‘appointed times’ (mo’edim) as MY ‘mo’edim’. They may be characterized as times when God says, in effect, “I will be there to meet with you on these specific occasions”. Those who choose not to attend miss an opportunity of blessing through meeting with Him at His invitation.

This festival is a happy occasion. It lasts for seven days and begins and ends with a Sabbath rest. Following just 4 days after the most solemn remembrance of Yom Kippur it is celebrated in a very special way in Israel particularly.  The festival is actually known by THREE different English names. Tabernacles, Booths and Ingathering. In Hebrew” Sukkot”.

Each family builds a kind of makeshift shelter, which they call “booths”, outside their home. It is deliberately constructed so that the roof is lightly covered with palm fronds which easily allows those inside the shelter to see the sky above. Observant Jewish families then carry on all normal family activities in and around this shelter. That includes having meals and sleeping.  The purpose of these constructions is to cause the family to remember the time when their ancestors lived in this manner in their wilderness journeying’s from Egypt to the Promised Land. Naturally, there is also much storytelling and appropriate scripture reading to encourage and enlighten the experience for the children of the family.

As mentioned above, it is an especially joyful festival.

In terms of our understanding of the prophetic significance of this festival, we need to recall the teaching which accompanied the first two festivals of this season. TRUMPETS heralds the return to this Earth of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach in power and great glory. Then follow 10 days of putting things right, before we remember the very solemn festival of YOM KIPPUR which is prophetic of the Great White Throne Judgement.

As the old hymn puts it “When the roll is called up yonder I’ll be there”. Well this festival is effectively the time for ‘roll calling’. Those who have been judged worthy at the Great White Throne Judgement are invited to attend the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. That is consistent with the joyfulness of the occasion isn’t it?  In fact, “the Bride” of the Lamb is the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21 : 9 – 27) and there is no place for impurity within its walls. Only those cleansed by the blood of the Lamb participate in the Marriage Supper.

There is ONE more activity associated with this festival in Judaism. On the last day of the celebration is the most joyous parading of the Torah Scrolls through the Streets in Jerusalem, and I suspect, but have not personally witnessed, in other Jewish communities. This is called “Simchat Torah” (Rejoicing in the Torah). It marks the fact that the whole cycle of reading the Torah starts again for another year.

Take time to study and learn the significance of all the “mo’edim” of the Lord. They are full of rich meaning and this festival has been singled out for special mention in the millennial Kingdom. Read it for yourself in Zechariah 14 : 16 -19. It forms part of the Haftarah portion for this week.

Why is this ‘mo’ed’ singled out?  For your thoughtful consideration, the first clue comes in Jeremiah 16:14,15. Probably the most memorable day in the Hebrew calendar superseded by a bigger event! Jews restored to the Land in preparation for the return of Messiah. Pesach (which includes Unleavened Bread and Firstfruits) no longer celebrated. Shavuot, traditionally the time of giving of Torah superseded by a New Covenant. Yom Teruah completed by the appearance of Yeshua as King of kings.(No third appearance expected)  Yom Kippur, already completed at the White Throne Judgement. And what remains is the joyful time when Yeshua Tabernacles with us for the rest of time. It is the ONLY festival which remains when Yeshua returns to reign.  Hallelujah, what a Saviour. Be part of “The great ingathering”.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah reflections  50   

Torah portion                    Deuteronomy 29:10 to 30:20

Haftarah portion             Isaiah 61: 10 –63: 9     

Listen to the Prophets

Isaiah proclaims the clear message of Messiah Yeshua in this parashah. It contains some of the most often quoted prophetic Scriptures in our Bible. It is worthy of our attention because it speaks of events which have captivated the thoughts of believers in Yeshua for 2,000 years. His triumphant return. We rejoice in that together.

But the very last verse of this reading says so much more. “In all their (Israel’s) affliction, He (Yeshua) was afflicted”. Sense the pain here. Turn your thoughts for a moment to the anti-Semitic pogroms, the holocaust, the reviling taunts, the dismissive attitudes, the arrogant humiliation, to which these beloved of God have been subjected throughout their history. That is “their affliction”. And Isaiah tells us that every hurtful act was experienced and felt personally by Yeshua. What shame we bear.

This prophetic writing has to be read with care in order to discern the person or people being addressed by Isaiah, so as to get the full understanding of the sequence. It opens with the statement about Yeshua’s time on this earth, and the purpose for which He came. It is Yeshua who was anointed by God to preach the ‘good tidings’, to ‘heal the broken-hearted’, to ‘proclaim liberty to the captives’. It is Yeshua who ‘gives beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness’. It is Yeshua who declares them (Israel) to be ‘the planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified”.

Sense the love which is embodied in those words. God sent Yeshua, His only Son, to make these changes in the lives of His chosen ones. It was God’s declared intention to heap His love upon them. It remains His intention. But there is a God ordained interval in His programme. The gospel of John, chapter 12, quoting Isaiah 6:9,10, spoke of the ‘blindness’ of Israel. The Apostle Paul, writing to the believers in Rome captured it with these words. “.. have they (Israel) stumbled that they should fall? Certainly not. But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles.”  He goes on “ … if their fall is riches for the world, and their failure riches for the Gentiles, how much more their fullness!”

And it is in glorious anticipation of this “fullness”, their restoration, and the “blindness” removed, that Isaiah’s prophetic words continue.

The Messianic Kingdom, where Yeshua will reign, (and rule with a rod of iron) comes clearly into focus. But in case we think that God is slow to bring this about, the prophet exhorts the hearer “you who make mention of the Lord, (that’s US isn’t it?) do not keep silent, and give Him no rest till He establishes and till He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth”.

Look what happens to Israel. “The Gentiles shall see your righteousness (all iniquity forgiven), and all kings your glory. You shall be called by a new name, which the mouth of the Lord will name. You shall also be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord”

Is it any wonder that the prophet Zechariah, speaking of the same era, said: “In those days ten men from every language of the nations shall grasp the sleeve of a Jewish man, saying, Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.”

Earlier in our study, we saw the pain of affliction felt by Messiah Yeshua for the agonies of rejection endured by His chosen ones. Our parashah ends on a note of righteous judgement on those who were the enemies of these chosen people. “Who is this who comes from Edom?” is the question. The description is of One whose garments are stained with blood. The blood of battle. Of One who is victorious in that battle. “For the day of vengeance is in My heart and the year of My redeemed has come” He says.

Then He said: “Surely they are My people, children who will not lie” So He became their Saviour.

There was a time, some 4,000 years ago, when God said to the righteous Abram “I will bless those who bless you, and I will “a’rar” (bitterly curse) those who “qalal” (treat with contempt) you.” The descendants of Abram, through the line of his son of promise, Isaac, were included in that promise.

Let’s take God at His word. Listen to the voice of the Prophets.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Torah Reflections   M5  

Torah portions      Leviticus 16 : 1- 34   and

Numbers 29 : 7 - 11

Haftarah portion  Isaiah 57:14  to 58:14

Listen to the Prophets

Leviticus 23 and Deuteronomy 16 have the commandments about annual observances of the “mo’edim”. (The Hebrew word for “appointed times”, which in turn is usually translated into English as “feasts”). These are times when God specified He would meet with His chosen ones.

Today, they are most often referred to as “Jewish Feasts”. That correctly describes the fact that they are observances remembered by Jews. But it is an incorrect understanding of the Scriptures.

When God gave these instructions to Moses, He carefully worded these ‘appointed times’ (mo’edim) as MY ‘mo’edim’. They may be characterized as times when God says, in effect, “I will be there to meet with you on these specific occasions”. Those who choose not to attend miss an opportunity of blessing through meeting with Him at His invitation.

The 10 days between the Feast of Trumpets and Yom Kippur are referred to as “the days of awe”. In Judaism, they are days of intraflection and reconciliation … putting things right.. putting things right with God and putting things right with those we live with and associate with on a daily basis. In fact the Scriptures clearly tell us that we cannot be right with God, and be at odds with each other (Matthew 5 : 24).

Those who have visited Israel at this time of year will know that everything stops on Yom Kippur. It is a day of fasting and reflection.( It is the reason why, in 1973, the Arab nations around Israel attacked them on that specific day. There is No Radio, No Television, No answering phones.. NOTHING goes on). The Scriptures declared that all the people have a day of solemn rest and strict Sabbath keeping. A day to “afflict your souls”.

It was the one day in every year, appointed by God, for the Chief Priest to enter the Holy of Holies of the Tabernacle and the Temple when they were functioning. The whole purpose of that visit by the Chief Priest was to ensure that he himself, and the Nation of people he represented, were made right with God in preparation for the year that lay ahead.

The awesome significance of this very special day is, regrettably, totally lost to the church. In addition to its special anointing by God, being set apart from all other days as it is, there is a unique event recorded in Revelation which we should all be acutely aware of. It is the day of the WHITE THRONE JUDGEMENT. It is represented for us today by the day of Atonement. It is a special day ‘to put things right’.

Revelation 20 : 11 – 15 describes that day of Judgment. It needs no comment from me. The judgement is to determine who is right with God, and who is not. It is there for everyone to read, but before you read it I caution you to read Revelation 22 : 18,19 first. Many ‘Christians’ today have never taken time to even read Revelation, let alone try to understand its message. It is a letter written by Yeshua Himself, or at least dictated by Him to John.

The climax of the whole letter, in fact the climax of the whole message of the Scriptures comes in the next festival of the Lord, the Feast of Tabernacles, which is why these “mo’edim” of the Lord are so important to celebrate, be part of, and to remember.

I am saddened that the modern Christian church, which is largely ignorant of the “mo’edim” of the Lord, has missed a blessing which God intended us to enjoy.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah reflections   49

Torah portion                    Deuteronomy 26:1 to 29:9

Haftarah portion             Isaiah 60: 1 – 22        

Listen to the Prophets

To get the clarity of mind we need to understand this amazing prophetic passage of Scripture, we have to remember that chapter and verse separations, whilst immensely convenient for reference purposes, are a very modern addition to the Bible. Just a few hundred years in fact.

So if we start reading from Isaiah 59:20, it becomes immediately obvious that the Lord is looking forward to the time when He will make a New Covenant with the people. Almost 100 years later, God spoke to Jeremiah on the same subject, but with a lot more detail.

It is almost invariably true that prophetic pronouncements have more than one fulfilment. Someone once described it as being like the view of a distant mountain range. When one gets to the first range, one can see further ranges beyond that. This would appear to be the case, in part, with our parashah today.

“Arise, shine, for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.”  would appear to be an announcement of the first coming of Messiah. And it is. But what we know is that it also speaks of a time when Messiah Yeshua will return to this earth. A future time even for us. And it is this future coming of Messiah which makes this prophecy of Isaiah so important to us.

Isaiah writes about the ‘Gentiles coming to your light’. About 700 years later, God called Rabbi Sha’ul (the Apostle Paul) to be His emissary to take that light to the Gentiles. They came in their thousands .. and are still coming!! Praise God. But there is a much greater attraction still ahead of us. Zechariah 8:23 prophecies that “ten men from every language shall grasp the sleeve of a Jewish man, saying, ‘Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.’”  What a day that will be. And God revealed it to Isaiah 2,700 years ago!

“Lift up your eyes all around and see; … your sons shall come from afar.”  Now it is certainly true that the exiles came from Babylon closer to Isaiah’s day, but do you also see that when God uses the word “afar” He was including all nations in the ‘Aliyah’, that includes nations which did not even exist under their present known names at that time. It is happening NOW, and it will continue until the “time of the Gentiles is fulfilled”. God alone knows when that will be, but Isaiah confirms it, because following this return of the sons of Israel, we have a description of events which are only used in connection with the Lord’s return.

“Whereas you have been forsaken and hated  … I will make you an eternal excellence”  We haven’t arrived at that time yet have we? What an extraordinary statement of restoration that is. This is the destiny of those who are the natural descendants of Abraham Isaac and Jacob,  And dare I say it, for those who are grafted into that ‘natural olive tree’ by faith in the Messiah Yeshua.

Earlier, I said that this passage of Scripture looks forward to the New Covenant which God will make with the house of Israel and the house of Judah.  “The sun shall no longer be your light by day, nor for brightness shall the moon be light for you”  Dear friends, this precisely describes the situation which God tells Jeremiah that Israel will no longer be a nation before Him. (Jeremiah 31:35,36). That immediately follows the terms of the New Covenant which God will make with His chosen ones. No longer Israel, but the Messianic Age, Yeshua reigning in Jerusalem. His  kingdom, given a name that He alone knows.

This parashah is a glorious anthem of praise to our God. One of the most enlightening prophetic chapters in the whole of the Scriptures. An absolute feast of teaching. A diverse range of commentary has applied this chapter to Jerusalem, to Israel, to the people, to the land, and even to the church. The truth is that God is able to quicken His word to each of us according to our need, and the best way to know what this means is to study it for yourself and ask God to reveal His truth.

But some things are immediately evident. Isaiah had Jerusalem, the city of his birth and residence, in his mind’s eye as God spoke to him so clearly. Just as chapter 54 describes the parlous state of Jerusalem, likening it to a barren woman, but with some hope for the future, chapter 60 describes a glorious future. That future being the New Jerusalem of the Messianic Age to come where the only light will be the shekinah of God

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Torah Reflections   M4     

Torah portions                    Genesis 21:1-34     Numbers 29:1-6

Haftarah portion               1 Samuel 1:1 to 2:10

Listen to the Prophets

Leviticus 23 and Deuteronomy 16 have the commandments about annual observances of the “mo’edim”. (The Hebrew word for “appointed times”, which in turn is usually translated into English as “feasts”). These are times when God specified He would meet with His chosen ones.

Today, they are most often referred to as “Jewish Feasts”. That correctly describes the fact that they are observances remembered by Jews. But it is an incorrect understanding of the Scriptures.

When God gave these instructions to Moses, He carefully worded these ‘appointed times’ (mo’edim) as MY ‘mo’edim’. They may be characterized as times when God says, in effect, “I will be there to meet with you on these specific occasions”. Those who choose not to attend miss an opportunity of blessing through meeting with Him at His invitation.

This festival is known as “The Feast of Trumpets”, because God ordained that it was to be heralded by the blowing of trumpets, it is known as “Rosh Hashanah” because it brings in the civic New Year in the Hebrew calendar. It is a Sabbath, a Holy convocation, a day of rest. It is the first of a series of THREE festivals which closely follow each other at this season of the year.

Many, like me, believe that it is prophetic of the time of the Lord’s return, and there are good Biblical reasons for this. Others will say ‘no man knows the day nor the hour”, but an elementary knowledge of Judaic biblical history easily explains this. In Israel, even today, the beginning and end of festivals (Numbers 10:10) relies on the observance of TWO stars in the sky by TWO witnesses (and that is normally announced by the blowing of shofars).  The appearance of the New Moon heralds the beginning of a new month, again reliant on TWO witnesses. There are a number of good reasons why these observances could be one day or the next. “No man knows the day”. The presence of cloud will affect the precise timing of the first appearance of stars, “no man knows the hour”.

The most compelling reason is however because it is consistent with the evidential significance of the first FOUR ‘mo’edim’. Pesach, Unleavened Bread and Firstfruits are perfectly fulfilled in the death, burial and resurrection of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach. Shavu’ot, the traditional time of the giving of Torah to Moses on the mountain, is also the time of the giving of the Holy Spirit in Jerusalem a mere 10 days after the ascension of Yeshua into Glory.

The Scriptures reveal that Yeshua will return with the sound of trumpets. (Matthew 24:30,31  1Corinthians 15:52  1Thessalonians 4:16)

The Feast of Trumpets marks the beginning of a period of 10 days of preparation for the next solemn appointed time, the Day of Atonement. It is enlightening to read Revelation 18, 19 and 20 in conjunction with the reflection on these last three festivals. That passage of Scripture appears to fill in some detail of things to take place upon the return of Yeshua when He comes, not as the Lamb to be slain, but as King of kings and Lord of Lords in order to put into place the millennial Kingdom of God.

In concluding this reflection, please consider this thought. When God instituted the ‘mo’ed’ of the Feast of Trumpets, He could have had in mind not only the annual introduction of a New Year in the Hebrew calendar, but also the New Year which marks the commencement of Yeshua’s everlasting Kingdom.

I am saddened that the modern Christian church, which is largely ignorant of the “mo’edim” of the Lord, has missed a blessing which God intended us to enjoy.

Shabbat Shalom 

RS

Haftarah reflections  48

Torah portion                    Deuteronomy 21:10 to 25:19

Haftarah portion             Isaiah 54: 1 – 10

 Listen to the Prophets

Our parashah this week comprises the fifth of seven consolations, or ‘comforts’ which Isaiah speaks to the Israelites. But it starts with a most unusual expression. “Sing, O barren, you who have not borne!” That is probably the last thing you would expect of someone who was unable to bear children, especially since that was the principal reason fpr women to marry. “Be fruitful and multiply” was God’s command.

The metaphor is not lost on these people. Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, Samson’s mother, Ruth (according to rabbinic interpretation), Hannah, and the Shunamite woman of 2 Kings 4, were all ‘barren’ until the Lord miraculously healed their barrenness. Their firstborn offspring were all used by God to bring great blessing.

“For more are the children of the desolate than the children of the married woman” says the Lord.

But Isaiah is speaking here of Jerusalem of course. The Jerusalem of the Messianic age no less, when her sons will be returned to her glory. Although once thronging with people, the city is now seemingly desolate. It had seen ‘better days’. There was an emptiness. Isaiah likens it to the emptiness of a widow, or a woman without children. Jeremiah spoke about the same thing in Lamentations 1:1-4.

 “How lonely sits the city that was full of people! How like a widow is she, who was great among the nations!  … She weeps bitterly in the night, her tears are on her cheeks; … She has none to comfort her. All her friends have dealt treacherously with her; …. No-one comes to her set feasts, …. And she is in bitterness”

Then the Lord shows Isaiah a very different scene. One of which He speaks encouragement and of joyful expansion. The city will be restored to its former glory, and more.

“Enlarge the place of your tent, and let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; Do not spare; Lengthen your cords, and strengthen your stakes, for you shall expand to the right and to the left, and your descendants will inherit the nations, and make the desolate cities inhabited”.

The history of the Israelites has been ‘chequered’, to say the least. God refers (in verse 4) to the times of shame which Israel brought upon itself when in its youth, and to times of His disappointment and frustration which caused God to allow them to stray as they got ‘older’. Any student of Israelite history will know that during the period of the “kings”, when the nation was divided, the North had 19 kings, not one of them followed God’s instructions. They were eventually taken captive by the Assyrians. The South had only 8 kings out of 20 who were described as ‘good’ kings, in that they followed the instructions of God. The nation prospered under the good kings, but was plundered by their enemies under the bad kings. The choice was always theirs, as indeed it is ours today, to follow God’s way, or to go their own way. But this expansion of the city is in preparation for when the King of Righteousness will reign. Not a choice of the people, in God’s perfect time, Yeshua Ha’Mashiach will return to the city to reign and rule from Jerusalem.

“For a mere moment I have forsaken you, but in great mercies I will gather you. With a little wrath I hid My face from you for a moment; but with everlasting kindness I will have mercy on you says the Lord, your Redeemer”.

I believe that the gathering of the Jews from every corner of the globe in our day, today, heralds the commencement of the ingathering of which Isaiah spoke. We remind ourselves that the prophet Ezekiel told us of this same ingathering (Ezekiel 36) but God revealed to Ezekiel that it was not for their sakes that these folk would be regathered to the Land, but for “My Holy Name’s sake, that the world may know that I am the Lord.”

But there is more. It heralds the time (Isaiah 40) when Israel’s “iniquity is pardoned”. It heralds the time when God will put a new spirit within the people (Ezekiel 36:26,27). It describes the time when God will make His New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34) with the house of Israel and the house of Judah.

Is it any wonder then, that God said “Sing O barren!”. What a day of rejoicing that will be.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah reflections   47

Torah portion                    Deuteronomy 16:18 to 21:9

Haftarah portion             Isaiah 51:12 – 52:12

Listen to the Prophets

The first ‘consolation’ prophecy in this series opened with the words “Comfort, yes comfort My people”. In the fourth of these seven words of ‘consolation’ brought by Isaiah, which is our parashah study this week, the Lord plainly declares that it is He Himself who is the ‘Comforter’.

In the midst of all their desolation and harassment, God says “I, even I, am He who comforts you. Who are you that you should be afraid of a man who will die, and the son of a man who will be made like grass”.

This is a ‘comfort’ for all who believe. Isaiah is making a prophetic announcement which is still to come. It is a prophecy about the Messianic Kingdom. Regardless of the circumstance we may see in the world of today, widespread apathy, Islam in rampant militancy and murderous hatred, erosion of morality both in the populace and globally in the political class. We are being reminded here that these matters are in the hands of mere men. Men will die. Sons of men will fade like grass fades. Our God is in control, nothing is out of His control, and He will bring the change that is necessary, but in His own perfect timing.

But the prophet reminds us too that the calamitous situation which Jerusalem then experienced, (and which we see happening in our fallen world today) was because of their disregard of God’s instructions. “You have drunk of the cup of trembling” he says “and drained it out”. In paraphrase, he goes on to tell them that they have lost direction, they have no-one to guide them. He asks the questions “Who will be sorry for you?” and “By whom will I comfort you?” They are hard questions, because the prophet was perfectly aware of the plight they were in, and that their plight would continue.

The questions are the same for us today. The arrogant disregard shown by the vast majority of nations and individuals to the commands of a Holy God is appalling. Even nations which are basically, but nominally, Christian, show scant regard for the authority of the Scriptures which is the ‘guide book’ of Christian living. The boundaries of secularism are extending beyond belief. God is treated like some fairy tale Santa Claus who is there to do our bidding. And to be blamed for every catastrophe that man is powerless to prevent.

But there is good news.

There will be change. Jerusalem will be a praise in the world again. “Put on your beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city!”  In paraphrase again, the Lord says that when He allowed them to experience the calamity of dispersion, He did not sell them. They were not traded off for anything or anyone else. So He does not have to buy them back, they are His to restore at any time of His choosing. And when He does, they will again be free to worship Him as he has instructed them. “For the uncircumcised and the unclean shall no longer come to you”, He says.

This raises a question about Gentiles, doesn’t it?  Lamentations 1:10 tells us “For she has seen the nations enter the sanctuary. Those whom You commanded not to enter Your assembly”. And Ezekiel 44:9, speaking about the Temple in the Messianic Age says “No foreigner, uncircumcised in heart or uncircumcised in flesh, shall enter My sanctuary”. Well, the Apostle Paul comes to the rescue here. He teaches in Colossians 2:11 that Gentile believers are circumcised with a circumcision not made with hands. And in Romans 2:26 that the uncircumcised man who keeps the requirements of Torah, then his uncircumcision will be regarded as circumcision. In Revelation 21 and 22 we read of the salvation of those whose names are written in the Book of Life. That includes many Gentile believers of course. It is the time when Jew and Gentile will be One New Man before the Lord. The One New Man who will worship before the Throne in the Messianic Kingdom to come. Hallelujah!

“For the Lord has comforted His people, He has redeemed Jerusalem. The Lord has made bare His holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all he ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God”

What greater ‘comfort’ could there be than that. Blessed be His name.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah reflections  46   

Torah portion                    Deuteronomy 11:26 to 16:17

Haftarah portion             Isaiah 66:1 - 24

Listen to the Prophets

“Hear the word of the Lord, you who tremble at His word.” There may be people today who ‘tremble at His word’ but I am not privy to anyone’s innermost thoughts, and I have never actually witnessed anyone ‘tremble at His word’. Have you?

It is certainly true that Isaiah was addressing a people who, in the most part, did not ‘tremble at His word’. The whole thrust of Isaiah’s prophecy was to give warning to the people of Judea because of their indifference to God’s word. But it was not always so. There was much trembling when God led the people out of Egypt and through their wilderness wandering. The ones who ‘trembled at God’s word’ in Isaiah’s day were described as ‘poor and of a contrite spirit’. They are the ones who would be comforted then, and they are ones who will be receive comfort from this prophetic parashah today.

That “trembling” can only result from a deep and abiding respect for God’s word. A faith in God’s word which understands that God says what He means and means what He says.

The Temple in Jerusalem was in poor state of repair. Neglected by the very people who actually received money to maintain it. The parashah opens with the question “Where is the house that you will build Me?” In his exhaustive study “The Footsteps of the Messiah”, Fruchtenbaum sees this as a reference to a temple yet to be built, not Solomon’s Temple, which already existed, and not the Temple described in Ezekiel 40-48 either. His argument is based on the words in verses 3 and 4 of this parashah, which indicates that God wanted nothing to do with this particular temple, (which Fruchtenbaum identifies as the ‘tribulation’ temple in which ‘the Beast’ of Revelation will demand to be worshipped) whereas God had both commissioned and designed the ‘place where He was to be worshipped”.

So having rebuked the hearers for their neglect and indifference, even their propensity to worship ‘other gods’ in idolatry, (words which sadly, framed slightly differently, may well be applied to many ‘christian’ followers today). Isaiah goes on to speak his final encouraging words of prophecy. And they are words which foresee a time still future to us today.

Talking about Jerusalem, “Rejoice with Jerusalem, and be glad with her all you who love her” for “I will extend peace to her like a river.”  Jerusalem today is a busy vibrant city, but it does not enjoy the kind of peace referred to by the prophet. It is a peace which will be preceded by the Lord “rendering His anger with fury .. by fire and by sword”.  It follows the time when ‘the Beast’ (known to most as the Anti-Christ) will demand worship in the temple, and when pigs will be offered there as a sacrifice. ‘Unclean’ animals offered in sacrifice in the temple, what an abomination to the Lord that will be.

But that is when God will enter into judgement with the nations that come against Israel, and the carnage will be staggering in its proportion. The birds will be called to clean up the mess! (Revelation 19:21)  It is, in my view, most likely the time when the 144,000 righteous (Revelation 7) who were ‘sealed’ in the tribulation period, will be revealed. It is certainly the time when the indifferent hordes of men of all the nations will have a reality check.

It is also the time when, according to my study of the Scriptures on this subject, God will make that New Covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah. The covenant, sealed with the precious blood of Yeshua  of which we presently have a foretaste. A covenant which no man can break. A covenant put in the mind of man and written on his heart.

It is the time when Israel will have the veil lifted from their eyes.

It is the time when once again men will “tremble at His word”. A time when the Scriptures tell us He will rule with a rod of iron. But it is a time when men will rejoice before the Lord for His unspeakable gift of life and salvation.

“And it shall come to pass that from one New moon to another, and from one Shabbat to another, all flesh shall come to worship before Me” says the Lord.

The Lord revealed all this to Isaiah almost 3,000 years ago. Thankyou Isaiah for your faithful record of God’s revelation to you

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah reflections  45   

Torah portion                    Deuteronomy 7:12 to 11:25

Haftarah portion             Isaiah 49:14 - 51:3    

Listen to the Prophets

“The Lord has forsaken me, and my Lord has forgotten me.” An anxious cry if ever there was one! Read in isolation from the rest of the book, this would indeed be a cry of desperation. Isaiah has a message of warnings and chastisement for the Judeans. That message has been delivered, and now he turns to the ‘comforts’. In response to their feelings of despair, as illustrated by the opening statement, Isaiah continues with the rhetorical question “Can a woman forget her nursing child?”

Is there a closer bond known to man than that of a woman and her child? It would be a most unusual relationship to contemplate. It is possible for women to become estranged from their children. But the prophet does not even countenance such a possibility. When Almighty God made His covenant promises to the Israelites in the desert, they were irrevocable on His part. He is a covenant keeping God. However, although the Israelites broke their covenant, many times, God reiterates here the permanency of His commitment to them.

“I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands” He says. You have become part of Me. I will restore you.

Over and over in these passages of ‘comfort and consolation’ God is reassuring the Israelites that there is a glorious day to come. A day when their enemies will be vanquished. Jerusalem will be filled with the people of God. The waste places will be made whole. But how is this to be accomplished? Where will they come from? The Lord responds:

“Behold I will lift up My hand to the nations. And set up My standard for the peoples; They shall bring your sons in their arms, and your daughters shall be carried on their shoulders … They shall bow down to you with their faces to the earth, … Then you will know that I am the Lord, for they shall not be ashamed who wait for Me.”

If that were not enough, so strong is God’s commitment to restore Israel, He gives perhaps the greatest ‘comfort’ possible. “For I will contend with him who contends with you.”  And in another statement of absolute clarity, “All flesh shall know that I, the Lord, am your Saviour, and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.”

They are statements which say “Game, set, and match”.

It is amazing that those, I should say some of those, who worship the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the author of those quotations above, still have reservation about God’s intent regarding the future of Israel. We all know that Israel is far from perfect, God knew it better than any. But, dear friends, as I ‘reflect’ on this parashah this week, I see that it really is NOT about Israel. Sure Israel is the subject, BUT it is about God and His covenantal promise to Israel.

We might all draw comfort and a reassuring lesson from this parashah. As it continues, there is an exhortation to all who believe.

“Listen to Me, you who follow after righteousness, you who seek the Lord: Look to the rock from which you were hewn.”  

It is not uncommon, in fact, any person can go through times of difficulty in life. Even times of doubt and questioning. I can verify that from personal experience. The important issue is, even when doubt arises, to know how to get answers to that doubt. This parashah is one such place. God had experienced the most disappointing responses from His chosen ones for centuries. There was a time, early in their desert wandering, when Moses had to plead with God not to ‘give up on them”.  True, He spoke to them in chastisement many times through the prophets, but always returned to the remembrance of His covenant responsibility.

Our security may be found in that covenant responsibility. Those, who by faith, have trusted in the power of the resurrected Messiah to forgive our sin, have received the Salvation which is promised. We have been ‘grafted in’ to that natural Olive Tree, which is Israel, and are included in the covenant promises which God has made with Israel. Praise God.

Covenant promises come with covenant responsibilities, don’t they?

God will bless you as you seek Him to find out what that responsibility entails. It is not hidden, it is written in His Book. Be blessed as you discover truth from His word. His promise is that His Word always accomplishes that for which it was sent.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah reflections 44  

Torah portion                    Deuteronomy 3:23 to 7:11

Haftarah portion             Isaiah 40: 1-26    

Listen to the Prophets

The Haftarah studies in Isaiah, which commenced last week, continue for the next seven weeks. Chapter and verse additions are a relatively modern convenience, and it has been observed that the 66 chapters of Isaiah appear to mirror the structure of our complete Bible, which has 66 books. The Hebrew Scriptures have 39 books, the Apostolic Scriptures 27, and Isaiah seems to have messages which appear to follow that kind of division. Our parashah today, Isaiah 40, begins a succession of, what are called, ‘comfort’ chapters. It certainly has the Messianic tone with which the Apostolic Scriptures commence..

“’Comfort, yes comfort My people’ says your God.”  Many Christian organizations working in Israel today use these words as a command of God to provide material assistance to those in need in the land. A noble work, and certainly well received by the needy there, and a work which has verifying authority in other Scriptures. But that is not the primary message of this exhortation of Isaiah. God has instructed Isaiah to “speak comfort to Jerusalem, and cry out to her, that her warfare is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned; for she has received from the Lord’s hand double for all her sins.”  That is the message of comfort which Israel receives from Isaiah. And it is a message which has its fulfilment in the coming of Messiah.

Prophetic Scripture often has multiple fulfilment, and that is true of our parashah today. Messiah Yeshua came to this earth almost 700 years after this prophecy was given. History records that many tens of thousands of Jews came to faith in the first century c.e. (Acts 21). John the baptizer was that ‘voice crying in the wilderness’ of verse 3, and he was definitely one who said to the cities of Judah “Behold your God!” But this prophecy has elements which have yet to be fulfilled. Isaiah sees the time when “her iniquity is pardoned” completely. That could not be the case, when in the second century, Israel was completely banished from the Land of Israel by the Romans. That could not be the case when history records the pogroms and mistreatment Jews received at the hands of many nations to which they fled. And often, during the period known as ‘the inquisition’ given the option of abandoning their faith or being put to death. Being banished from Britain in 1290 by King Edward 1, a ban which remained until Oliver Cromwell in 1665. Banished from Spain in 1492, one day before ‘tisha b’av’, by Ferdinand and Isabella. Six million Jews put to death in the holocaust. If that does not constitute receiving “double for all her sins”, I am at a loss to explain it.

The prophet continues, “Behold the Lord God shall come with a strong hand”. One of the reasons many Jews could not see Yeshua as Messiah was that they did not see Him as the ‘strong man’ Messiah they expected, and still expect. They were, at that time, looking for a Messiah who would overthrow the tyrannical Roman rule to which they were subject. Isaiah describes such a Messiah in this parashah. All powerful, all mighty, all conquering, all caring, all protecting, all forgiving.

In praise of Almighty God, Creator of the Universe, the prophet writes eloquently “To whom then will you liken God?” Then in comparison to the most skilled artisans they could imagine, he describes, in simple language, the attributes of the One who is their redeemer.

“It is He who sits above the circle of the earth.”

“Lift up your eyes on high, and see who has created all these things’”

It is He who created all things, He who put all things in right order, He who has the power of life and death, it is He, and He alone, who has the power to ‘pardon iniquity’.

What greater comfort can anyone receive than to know that one is pardoned of all iniquity? To have the barrier to communion with a Holy God swept away, cast into the depths of the sea, forgotten, as though that iniquity never existed.  There is NO greater comfort.

Isaiah is describing the conditions which are the hallmark of “The New Covenant”. He sees the time when men will live righteously before our Holy Creator, and with each other. “For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more” says Jeremiah 31:34

It is the time when Messiah Yeshua returns to rule and reign in Jerusalem. It is the time, of which, the Apostle Paul declares “All Israel will be saved”. It is the time when Israel will recognize Him, with eyes now opened.  And it is a time of joy for all Gentiles who are ‘grafted in’ to that ‘natural Olive Tree’, which is Israel.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah reflections 43

Torah portion                    Deuteronomy 1:1 to 3:22

Haftarah portion             Isaiah 1: 1-27 

Listen to the Prophets

Isaiah was from a respected family. He grew up in Jerusalem, and in addition to being well educated, was both familiar and maintained contact with, the royal court.

Isaiah’s prophetic writings extend for about 60 years from 740 b.c.e. He wrote at a time of great testing for his fellow Judeans. And Israel, their ‘cousins’ and Northern neighbours, were in desperate trouble due to idolatry and their wanton disregard of their covenantal responsibilities.

Our parashah opens with a tirade of judgment against Judah. There is not a comforting word on his lips. (well, perhaps one!) His education and his royal contacts ensured that he was well versed in the situation in the broader community in which he lived. He was certainly aware of the calamity about to visit Israel in the form of their Assyrian enemies. He also knew, from God, why these things were happening, and was commissioned by God to bring the warning voice to his own people, Judah.

The Temple which Solomon had built was now about 200 years old and was being seriously neglected. It was as though no-one cared. The priests were slack in their responsibilities, both to the people and to their care for the Temple. There was an outward appearance of ‘religiosity’ but inwardly they were self-seeking and neglectful. Then God visited Isaiah with a remarkable vision. He saw it all clearly. The light of God’s Spirit shone in to the dark corners of their life. Everything was exposed. God spoke, and still speaks, powerfully through this faithful man Isaiah.

“To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices to Me?” And more, “When you spread out your hands, I will hide My eyes from you; Even though you make many prayers, I will not hear, your hands are full of blood.”

Such devastating condemnation from the Lord God Himself.

“Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; Put away your evil doings from before My eyes, cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, rebuke the oppressor, defend the fatherless, plead for the widow”.

Then, for any with a modicum of decency, the words which may bring comfort. These words could be spoken by the Apostle Paul in the course of his evangelical missions to the Gentile nations, three quarters of a century later, but they were penned by Isaiah.

“Come now, let us reason together,” says the Lord, “though your sins be like scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”

 “But if you refuse and rebel ………”

The message contained in this Scripture for us today?

God was inviting His chosen ones to review their lifestyle. Over many years, they had slipped into bad practices. There was a lackadaisical familiarity to their pretence at worship. O, they turned up alright, they brought the sacrifices, even going through the motions of praying. So what was the problem? They had lost sight of the basics of God’s intent when He gave them those instructions on how to live righteously with each other and before Him. They were selfish and self-centred, even self-seeking. They lacked sincerity in their worship. God saw it as a sham.

Their attitudes had become a barrier to communion with a Holy God. Is it possible that we may be similarly found wanting? The call of God, through the prophet is as relevant today as it was then. 

“Come now, let us reason together,” says the Lord, “though your sins be like scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”

It is a precious characteristic of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, that He does not cast us away. We may choose to leave Him, but He does not leave us. He gives us opportunity, as He did these Israelites in Isaiah’s day, to turn around so as once again to head in the right direction.

Moses said in Deuteronomy 30:19,                                                                  

“I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life”

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   42     

Torah portion             Numbers 30 : 1 to 36 : 13

Haftarah portion     Jeremiah 2 : 4 – 28   and 3 : 4

(Two Torah portions are read together except in In Hebrew leap years)

Listen to the Prophets

Last week, we ‘reflected’ on the clear call of God on the youthful Jeremiah. His calling was to be bold and outspoken in the things that God promised to show him. His boldness was born of the faith that God would protect him from those who would come against him.

It is immediately evident from this week’s parashah that Jeremiah had listened intently to the Lord! His message could not be clearer.

Tell them this, says the Lord (my paraphrase) “I remember you when you were a young nation. In your wilderness journey you relied on Me totally, I fed you, gave you water to drink. You were completely set apart (holy) to Me. Anyone who tried to hinder you I visited disaster upon them”.

The pain is palpable in the expression of disappointment as the Lord continues. As I read these words, I cannot avoid putting myself in the position of the hearers, because I too am one of the hearers. God caused Jeremiah to charge them with idolatry. There could be no worse charge. Commandment number one. “You shall have no other gods before Me”.

(I had an extremely personal encounter with God in 1999, when, for about 4 weeks, I was unable to walk and was confined to a hospital bed. It is too long a story to relate here, but I felt a compulsion to read Ezekiel. Eventually I got to Chapter 14. It was then that I had a conversation with God that changed my life. And it was all about idolatry.)

God hates idolatry. It is an abomination to Him. It was an abomination in the days of Jeremiah, and it’s an abomination today. An idol is anything, anyone, any place, any activity that hinders ones relationship with God (or takes time away from that relationship). That which one allows into one’s home, through the medium of television, or the internet, or books and magazines, can be idolatry. The simple test is to consider the time one gives to any of these activities, and compare that to the time that same person gives to communion with God. Because, where your treasure (and time) is, your heart will be also.

I wonder what words Jeremiah might use today, in our world, if God charged him with bringing the same message to us as he took to the Israelites. If one is diligent in the study of this parashah, one might actually find out!!

Try, if you can, to imagine the words of Jeremiah being addressed to us today. Instead of the violations of the idolatry of the Israelites, think of the modern equivalent, whatever that might be (the Lord will show you).

We have been brought into fellowship with Almighty God through faith in Yeshua, who gave His life for us. In so doing, the Lord “has brought us into a bountiful country, to eat its fruit and its goodness”. God surely has every reason to expect that we would then, not only be grateful, but would live our lives in honour of Him, and in accord with His precepts.

The first group of people to come under scrutiny are those who have authority. In our parashah it was the priests, followed closely by those who are teachers. Then rulers and prophets.

I dare to suggest here, that in our society today, the primary priestly responsibility belongs to men. Men who have families. Men are charged by God to lead their families, to set an example for wives and children. To be leaders in their own homes. (It is my observation that this is the pattern which is prevalent in God fearing Jewish families today.)

Next are the teachers. In our “modern day church age” that onus of responsibility has largely been abdicated by “the home priests” in favour of the professional pastor. It is a regrettable fact that many church pastors are inadequately versed in the fundamentals of God’s Torah.(teaching) And very few even realize it. Consequently, they can only teach what they themselves have been taught, and we, the laity, are given an extremely narrow version of the truth of God’s word. The word written about the teachers is “those that handle the law did not know Me”. That, my dear friends, is a heavy charge.

But there is even more.

It is imperative, if you are to get all that God intends for you out of this parashah, that you read it completely for yourself. But be warned, it contains words of strong rebuke for those of us who, having been given the privilege of entering this walk of faith with the Lord, have allowed “idols” to get in the way of our fellowship with Him.

Our parashah ends with a plea from God Himself.

“Will you not from this time cry to Me, ‘My Father, You are the guide of my youth’?”

Enjoy the fellowship with Him that began when you were first called into His family.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   41        

Torah portion            Numbers 25 : 10 to 29 : 40

Haftarah portion     Jeremiah 1 : 1  to 2 : 3

Listen to the Prophets

The timeframe of the prophecies of Jeremiah are precisely noted in the life of the Israelites. It was a most turbulent time for them, spanning a period of about forty years up to the actual conquest of Jerusalem by king Nebuchadnezzar.

Jeremiah spoke prophetic warnings against Judah for about twenty years before the Lord instructed him to write on a scroll the words which He had given Jeremiah, so that they could be read out to the people in the Temple on a special day of fasting that had been set aside for the people. It is an interesting story, and you can read about it in Jeremiah 36. The end result of this was that king Jehoiakim burned the scroll which Jeremiah had written! (actually he dictated it to Baruch, his scribe) So God had Jeremiah write another scroll, to which he added some similar words of condemnation.

If you wonder, as I do, why Jeremiah was so bold in his behaviour to the king of the Land, the answer is to be found in our parashah today.

Jeremiah was a quite young man when God called him to his prophetic ministry. So young in fact, that Jeremiah at first objected on the grounds that he didn’t have enough experience to do the job God wanted done. But God knew His man. He spoke clearly to Jeremiah in assurance of support.

“Do not say ‘I am a youth’ for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you”, says the Lord.

Then we are told that the Lord put forth His hand and touched Jeremiah’s mouth, and said further, in part:-“See I have this day set you over the nations and over the kingdoms”. And that is why Jeremiah was able to carry out his almost thankless task of bearing many dire warning messages to his fellow Judeans, including the king.

But the Lord wanted to show Jeremiah some detail of events about to unfold, in order to cement the picture in his mind, as he set about his appointed task. So Jeremiah was given two visions. The first that of an almond tree, and the second that of a ‘boiling’ pot. The almond tree is the first to blossom in the spring in Israel, so this vision spoke of a time very close at hand. The second, the boiling pot, spoke of confusion and turmoil, and it was noteworthy that in the vision this pot was facing ‘away from the north’. That is, that it was trying to get away from the source of the turmoil, which would come from the north.

There is no question that this vision was for the time in which Jeremiah lived, (the siege, and capture, of Jerusalem by the Babylonians is the event foretold) but it also has an application, borne out by other scriptures, of a time still future to us.

In our parashah today, Jeremiah was being prepared to speak to his fellow Judeans about impending calamity, as a direct result of their forsaking the covenant which had been made by their fathers, and verified many times in their history whenever they had called on God to get them out of a scrape with their neighbours. The main failing seemed to be their descent into idolatrous worship.

Now here is a valuable lesson for us today.

God had already promised Jeremiah that He would be with him in all his encounters with the people. But now God goes a step further, and tells Jeremiah that when he takes the message of warning to the people, not only will they not listen to him, but they will ‘fight against him’.

One would have to be VERY sure of one’s relationship with the Lord to proceed with such a message wouldn’t one? Evidently, Jeremiah was super confident in his calling.

God assured Jeremiah that he would be absolutely “fireproof” in the face of the people. Look at the words God uses to describe the absolute imperviousness of Jeremiah to the attacks of those who come against him and why he should go with great confidence.

“Do not be dismayed before their faces (be bold and resolute) … For behold I have made you this day a fortified city and an iron pillar, and bronze walls against the whole land- against the kings of Judah, against its princes, against its priests, and against the people of the land”.

When we are called upon to speak in God’s Name, to ‘give a reason for the hope that is within us’, we should take example from the words God used to Jeremiah. We should speak boldly and with resolution, being assured that we are messengers of the King. In the face of concerted attacks on our heritage and lifestyle, our message in today’s world is both timely and necessary.

Most importantly, we should all be asking God, through the agency of His precious Holy Spirit, to guard us, keep us, fill us, and use us, according to His perfect will and purpose.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   40

Torah portion            Numbers 22 : 2 to 25 : 9

Haftarah portion     Micah 5 : 7  to 6 : 8

Listen to the Prophets

Micah, a so called “minor” prophet, had some amazing insights from God. He was given the task of warning the tribes of the South and the North to mend their ways or face the wrath of God. He tells us that he prophesied “in the days of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah”. That indicates that he probably witnessed the fulfilment of his prophetic utterances in regard to Israel in the North, but not Judea in the South.

The really amazing thing about this prophecy is that even though there was an immediacy about it concerning the people amongst whom he lived and worked, there was also a future element, which we are yet to experience, but the signs of which are all around us.

And in the detail there are lessons for us today.

Our parashah today begins with such an announcement. “The remnant of Jacob” is certainly “among the Gentiles and in the midst of many peoples, like dew from the Lord, like showers on the grass,” even to this very day. But there is also the immediacy in the fact that they were at that time moving around the various kingdoms of gentiles around them in conquering mode. They took with them both the blessing of their enlightenment to Almighty God and His ways, but also the harshness of a conquering invader.

However, Micah warns that all is not well with them. God’s intent was that they would be a light to the Nations. As we read the end of Micah 5 we see that they had absorbed many of the acts of pagan worship, which they were supposed to tear down. It seems (verses 10,11) that they were flushed with their own importance. They were reliant on military superiority (horses and chariots) for their successes, whereas God’s intent was that He would be their source of strength, and that fact would be obvious to the nations around them.

Do you see the parallels in society today? Even in our own lives?  Isaiah put it well :-  

“Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, and rely on horses, who trust in chariots because they are many, and in horsemen because they are very strong, But who do not look to the Holy One of Israel, nor seek the LORD!”    Isaiah 31:1

Many of us think we are pretty good at working things out for ourselves, neglecting the fact that God tells us He is a very present help in trouble. Read Psalm 46 and be encouraged.

Because we have the historical account of the events at that time and beyond, we are able to see how things actually turned out for these Israelites. These scriptures are here for a purpose, that we might know God in all His fullness. We see how He was so patient in sending prophet after prophet to warn and plead with them. These are not just ‘hints’ at the problems, they are bare facts of their failings. But before we get too carried away with their failings, we might take a moment to privately review our own position.

These prophets are still speaking today. We just have to read what they say and ask God to speak to us through their words. And He will.

Our parashah today ends with God calling the people to a very special court of justice. The people of Israel are on trial. God is the complainant. He calls the mountains and the hills together to form the jury. In verses 3 to 5 God lays out the charge as He tries to get Israel to let Him know how He has failed them. Of course, there is no failing in God’s part, and the people are guilty as charged.

The sentence is pronounced, probably the most quoted scripture in Micah’s prophecy.

“He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you. But to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”

To understand the context properly, we need to read the full ‘charge sheet’ God had against Israel. Look back to Chapter 3 : 9 to 11. Micah tells them that ‘they abhor justice’ (they are to do justly) and ‘they judge for a bribe’ (they are to love mercy) and they proudly say “the Lord is among us so no harm can come to us” (they are to walk humbly with their God).

What a wonderful lesson this parashah can be for us today. We all have asked at one time or another what does the Lord require of us. Thank you Micah, for providing us with the answer.

O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is Your Name in all the earth.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   39

Torah portion             Numbers 19 : 1 to 22 : 1

Haftarah portion     Judges 11 : 1 - 33

Listen to the Prophets

Imagine, if you can, the period of time from the days of Martin Luther to today. Think of some of the amazing things that have happened in those years. Then try to imagine what might be included in an abbreviated history of that period. You may be sure that everything which would be included was both momentous and important.

After the Israelites began to occupy the Land of Promise, they were led by a succession of people who were known as “judges”, righteous living, honourable people, who feared God and kept His statutes. In all, the books of Joshua, Judges and the first part of 1 Samuel, occupy a time frame of about 450 years (approximately the same time as from Martin Luther to today). They recount illuminating events of history, and they are there for our example and edification. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness”. (1 Timothy 3:16).

So as we look at the haftarah parashah today, be assured that this unusual story has important lessons for us to learn.

Jephthah was an outcast. His family resided in Gilead. This was what we today know as Jordan, just to the south of Syria. The circumstances of Jephthah’s birth, caused angst with his half-brothers, and even though Jephthah is described as a ‘mighty man of valour’, (read pretty tough) he chose to leave the family home rather than continue a squabble with his siblings.

He moved to the “land of Tob” (no-one knows the precise location of Tob, but it must have been close to a trade route and not very far from Gilead). There he befriended some “worthless men” and headed up a gang of thieves (bandits). We also know from later revelation in our parashah, that he had a degree of familiarity with the Ammonites (next door neighbours to the Gileadites).

For what seems the umpteenth time, the Israelites again lost sight of the covenant they had made with Almighty God and were serving the gods of the Baals and Ashtoreths, the gods of Syria, the gods of Moab, the gods of the Ammonites and Philistines. And for that, they paid a terrible price.

God has allowed each of us the opportunity to serve Him, but always under His conditions. He also allows us to exercise ‘freewill’ to go our own way, and we often do, just like the Israelites in our parashah. The lesson from this story of Jephthah is that there is a price to pay. In their case, they were harassed by the Ammonites for another eighteen years. Left to their own devices they floundered, had trouble they couldn’t even imagine, until they again turned back to the Lord for help.

We may all have a personal story to recount of times when, having started out with good resolve to live righteously, we turned our back on God, at first slowly, a bit at a time, a compromise here, a compromise there, and before we knew it we were living in a ‘different kingdom’.

There is no doubting that God was angry with the Israelites. And yet, His mercy towards them knows no bounds. That, my dear friends is the nature and character of the God we serve. Do you remember the old hymn we used to sing:-

“His love has no limit, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men,
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus,
He giveth and giveth and giveth again.”

That hymn speaks of the love of God towards us who believe. But it doesn’t stop God’s disappointment and even anger at our behaviour when we forget the promises we made when we came to faith in Him.

Jephthah was invited back from his life of crime to lead the people against the Ammonites. He tried to reason with them. He tried to appeal to their sense of fairness. Nothing influenced a change in their behaviour towards the Israelites. We are not told what sort of an army Jephthah assembled, but we do know that the Spirit of God was with him, and the army of the Ammonites was defeated.

But even that is not the end of the story.

Jephthah made a promise to God. Read the account for yourself in (Judges 11: 30-35). It is very difficult for us to understand that part of the story, but the vow was made by Jephthah, not by God. Because he was a man of honour he kept his word.

One more ‘reflection’ regarding Jephthah. Read again the beginning of our parashah. What an unlikely person God used to rescue His chosen ones from unfaithfulness and chaos. Does it occur to you, as it does to me, that if God is able to use an outcast who gave his life to crime, He can use anyone He chooses. You see “man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart”.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   38

Torah portion             Numbers 16 : 1 to 18 : 32

Haftarah portion     1 Samuel 11 : 14 to 12 : 22

Listen to the Prophets

The faithful and righteous Samuel, prophet and judge of Israel, had succeeded Samson, the last of 12 judges, beginning with Othniel, who had ruled over Israel for more than 300 years.

In that time the people were first faithful to their promises to God, but then inevitably slipped into worship of other gods, got into serious trouble with their neighbours, became remorseful, called out to God for help, and invariably God responded by raising up another faithful “Judge” to lead them. After the death of Samson, the scriptures tell us that “there was no ‘king’ (leader) in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17: 6)

That was before God raised up leadership under Eli, followed by the very young Samuel as their leader.

But as we look at our Haftarah parashah this week we discover that time has moved on and Samuel is now in advanced years. His sons, who might have been his natural successors, did not follow the Lord and were not considered suitable for leadership. The people wanted leadership security for the future. They observed that all the Nations around them had kings to lead them, and thus they decided that it would be best for them to have a king also.

It is a measure of Samuel’s standing before Almighty God that he was able to have dialogue with the Lord about the matter. God assured Samuel that he was not the problem, but the people were rejecting His authority. Most disappointing. (Read 1 Samuel 8:4-22 for the account of that conversation).

Eventually, Saul, a strong man, and something of a bully (1 Samuel 11:7) was made king. But the authority was still with Samuel, so he called an assembly of the people in Gilgal. This was the place, just north of Jericho, where the people first camped when they entered the land under Joshua’s leadership. It seems as though Samuel was saying “You have rejected the leading of the Lord in His appointment of leaders, so now we will go back to where it all started and you can try it your way”.

But Samuel had a few words of introduction to make! His speech called for a response from the people regarding his own leadership over many years. He challenged them to point out his failings as a leader, which they could not of course. His challenge, and their truthful observation about his leadership then enabled Samuel to give them a lesson about God’s faithful dealings with them over many hundreds of years. He reminded them that in spite of centuries of unfaithfulness, God had always protected them and delivered them from the hands of their enemies. The culmination of his speech about God’s faithfulness came when he told them (1 Samuel 12:12) that even though they seemed unable to recognize it, they had a King reigning over them all the time, and that was YHWH Elohim.

 Samuel had one final point to make. It is here that we might draw our lesson for today from this passage.

It may seem repetitious, and that is because it is, that Samuel assured them that in spite of their stubborn choice in asking for an earthly king for themselves, they could still find favour with God. But there was a condition attached. (see 1 Samuel 12: 14 and 24)

“If you fear the LORD and serve Him and obey His voice and do not rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then both you and the king who reigns over you will continue following the LORD your God”

“Only fear the LORD, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you”.

It is unlikely that we would ask for an earthly king to reign over us, but there are plenty of other ways we have of rebelling against the commandment of the LORD. We are also pretty good at looking at the blessings offered to us in the Word of God, and thanking Him for them. BUT do we ever consider that there may be conditions attached to God’s promise of blessing?

How many times do we hear it today that “Jesus kept all the commandments, so we don’t have to, because we are ‘in Him’?

What a cop out that is. Didn’t Jesus tell us in John 14:15 “IF you love Me, you will keep My commandments”? Isn’t it Jesus who is the WORD, who was in the beginning with God?  Can we not see that the very commandments which were spoken to Moses on the mountain were spoken by HIM who is the WORD? They have never been annulled.

We worship a God who does not change. His dealings with the Israelites are written for our edification and example. There were plenty of gods to worship in the days of the prophets, and there are plenty of gods today, (and plenty of kings to follow too) BUT there is NO other God besides Him. He is worthy of our praise, and He is worthy of our obedience.  Blessed be His Name.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   37        

Torah portion             Numbers 13 : 1 to 15 : 41

Haftarah portion     Joshua 2 : 1 - 24

Listen to the Prophets

High tension! Excitement, apprehension, curiosity, emotion, fear. Forty years of wilderness wanderings and now the Israelites were camped on the East of the Jordan River. They could see the land on the other side. The time had come for them to enter the Land promised to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob. But Joshua, a competent and careful leader, decided to carry out one final reconnoitre of the territory before they crossed the river. Two of his trusted aides were sent to secretly spy out the land, especially the nearby city of Jericho. They chose the house of Rahab as their base. Surely they would not arouse any suspicion since Rahab, because of her lifestyle, probably had a motley variety of visitors to her house.  But they were wrong.

Someone had not only seen their arrival and deduced their origins, but carefully noted where they were lodging and reported the whole plan to the king of Jericho. End of mission! Or was it?

Rahab is probably the least likely person we might have chosen to be a part of God’s master plan. But God’s ways are not our ways. Much later, God would choose the great, great grandson of Rahab to be King of Israel. And of him it was written “man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart”.

Look at some of the quotes in our Bible about Rahab.

“And Joshua spared Rahab the harlot, her father's household, and all that she had. So she dwells in Israel to this day, because she hid the messengers whom Joshua sent to spy out Jericho.”        Joshua 6:23

“Salmon begot Boaz by Rahab, Boaz begot Obed by Ruth, Obed begot Jesse, and Jesse begot David, the king”.            Matthew 1:5,6

“By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe, when she had received the spies with peace.”       Hebrews 11:31

“Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way?”   James 2:25

Rahab, looked down upon by ‘normal’ society, certainly not one to be invited to one’s home for dinner. And yet used by God in the lineage of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach. Mentioned amongst the ‘giants’ of faith in Hebrews 11. And in James Epistle, justified by an act of “works”!! She did something which demonstrated her faith.

Obviously, Rahab was a woman of some perception. She had heard, as had everyone else, about the mighty act of God when He parted the Red Sea to facilitate the salvation of the Israelites from the hand of Pharoah. She had heard, as had everyone else, about the fate of Amorite king, Sihon, and of Og, king of Bashan, who had vainly attempted to hinder the passage of the Israelites on their journey (through the land we know today as Jordan).  So Rahab made a bold decision. A decision which saved her own life and that of her entire family. In effect she said “As for me and my house, we will be on the side of the Lord God of Israel” (my paraphrase).

Rahab took advantage of the revelation she had regarding those who opposed Israel, and those who joined them. It sounds rather ‘matter of fact’, but in effect that is what she did, as the Apostle James tells it.

So here is the lesson for us today. We have a Bible which tells us of God’s dealings with His people. There are stories galore of the miraculous events which brought those Israelites out of bondage in Egypt into a Land of their own. We might say that in a country such as ours, “everyone has heard it”. But not everyone is a “Rahab”. There are those who believe, and there are those who oppose. Even within the body of today’s church.

Many of the prophets we are ‘reflecting’ upon foretold the regathering of the Jews to their Land. An event we see taking place before our eyes today. That is practical. It is happening, and in increasing numbers. This is just one of the signs we are given which heralds the coming return of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach.

 At the end of the Book, Joshua issues a challenge to the people under his command. It is worthy of our attention. “ … choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve …. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord”

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   36

Torah portion             Numbers  8 : 1 – 12 : 16 

Haftarah portion     Zechariah 2 : 10 – 4 : 7

Listen to the Prophets

When studying the Scriptures, it is important to know the context of what one is reading. All the prophets in the Hebrew Scriptures were called by God to proclaim a timely message. Amazingly, the truth is that those very proclamations, made thousands of years ago, for a particular circumstance at that time, have application and relevance for us today.

Zechariah lived at the time of the Babylonian captivity. He was a contemporary of the prophet Haggai. He had witnessed the return from Babylon of Zerubbabel and 49,696 other people. He had seen the work of rebuilding the ruined Temple commence, and he saw that the building work was being hampered by opposition and other difficulties. His message was one of urgency and encouragement. And the good news is that a mere five years later, the work was completed. You may read the details in the Books of Ezra and Nehemiah.

BUT, there is another dimension to this prophetic ministry of Zechariah. His words speak clearly of a future event, part of which we see happening today, and part of which is still future to us.

Our parashah opens with the rousing rallying call “Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion! For behold I am coming and I will dwell in your midst”. A prophetic statement actually fulfilled when Yeshua was born. But as that prophetic statement continues, we see that there is more to follow, which is additional to the first part, which will be completely fulfilled at the return of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach to rule and reign as King of Kings in Jerusalem.

Before that mighty event occurs, there will have to be a Temple standing in Jerusalem once more. Ezekiel describes that Temple in great detail in chapters 40 to 48 of his prophecy. Our parashah contrasts the imperfect priesthood of the first Temple period, with the priesthood which will serve in the Temple when Yeshua reigns as King. Chapter 3 : 4 tells us “See I have removed your iniquity from you,  and I will clothe you in rich robes”.

This is consistent with Jeremiah’s announcement about the New Covenant isn’t it? He says in Jeremiah 31 ; 34  “… For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more”. Their iniquity was in breaking their covenant vows. They did not live according to the instructions of God, which they had promised to do.

Here is a lesson for us today. Before we get all self-righteous and judgmental about these Israelites, we would do well to contemplate the vows and promises we have made before a Holy God. If you are up for a shock read Matthew 7 : 23 again. The word translated “lawlessness” (greek. ‘anomia’, iniquity, unrighteousness, against the law) in our Bibles, is a clear reference to “Torah-less-ness” (against God’s instruction for righteous living).

The last 4 verses of our parashah are so clearly a prophecy about the Messianic Kingdom. Isaiah, Jeremiah and Zechariah all speak about Yeshua as ‘the Branch’. There is also some figurative language used, (which commentators more knowledgeable than I have difficulty explaining), and finally the promise that the iniquity of that land to be removed in one day. I believe the Apostle Paul made reference to this in Romans 11 : 26.

So Zechariah seems to have been entrusted, by God, with a message of encouragement to the Temple builders who had returned from Babylon. At the same time, God chose this man to be the bearer of both good news, and a warning to the citizens of the world alive today.

The KING is coming. Make yourselves ready. As He said to Joshua the High Priest:-

 “If you walk in My ways, and if you keep My command, then you shall also judge My house, and likewise have charge of My courts:..”

And how is this to be accomplished?

“Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord of hosts”

What a mighty God we serve. And what a day that will be.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   35

Torah portion             Numbers  4 : 21 – 7 : 89 

Haftarah portion     Judges 13 : 2 - 25

Listen to the Prophets

In the Torah parashah (Numbers 6 see verse 2) we are given details of the instruction God gave regarding those who would take a “Nazarite vow”. It is a voluntary vow of (Heb. ‘nazir’) separation or consecration. An outward sign of that person’s vow was that during the period of the vow, he/she would not cut his/her hair. At the end of the vow period, a sacrificial offering was made to the Lord.

Our Haftarah parashah introduces us to a man from the tribe of Dan, named Manoa. His wife (name unknown) is one of at least SIX women initially described in our Bible as ‘barren’, childless, but who eventually bore children to their husbands. Not only that, but all those first born children were greatly used of God in fulfilling His purposes.

We must not minimize the anguish of the state of ‘barrenness’ for a woman. There were two attributes important to both men and women in the Bible. Firstly, premarital chastity, secondly marital productiveness. Well might we ponder how times have changed today, both in terms of expectation and general morality.

After the Israelites entered the Land of Promise, they were led by a series of Judges for approximately 400 years. Some were ‘good’ Judges and some were ‘evil’ Judges. It is an interesting fact that when the ‘good’ Judges were in power the Lord prospered the Israelites. When the ‘evil’ Judges ruled, God prospered the Philistines. This seemed to play out in area of the Sorek Valley where the land is most fertile and therefor prized as a possession by both Israel and the Philistines.

At the time of our story this week, the Israelites had been ‘delivered to’ the Philistines for the last 40 years. (This was about 320 years after the Israelites entered the Land, and about 50 years before the appointment of Saul as the first King of Israel). BUT, God had a plan of rescue for the Israelites.

Manoah’s wife was visited in the field, where she was either working or waiting for her husband, by a “man’, whom she immediately recognized as someone special. She instinctively knew that he was “a Man of God”. In her description of him to Manoah she used the Hebrew word ‘yare’. He looked ‘fearful’, ‘awful’, ‘terrible’, ‘awesome’, depending on which translation you use. It is the same word used in Proverbs 9:10. As in ‘the fear (‘yare’) of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”. That is why she did not have the presence of mind to ask Him any questions. She was totally awestruck.

Manoah’s response to her is exemplary. Look at it in verse 8. “Let’s pray about it” (my paraphrase). What a lesson that is for us. In truth, the finger is pointing directly at me in that statement, when I think of the many instances in my life when I did not consult with the Lord when I should have. (Just two weeks ago, in “Reflection” BEHAR, we saw Jeremiah receiving a word from the Lord, but waiting for a further word of confirmation before proceeding to act).

Almighty God in response to Manoah’s prayer sent His Angel a second time to confirm that this childless couple would have a son. A son who would live a “Nazarite vow” from his birth. That means he would be ‘separate’, ‘consecrated’ to God for the special task (which Manoah and his wife were not to know at that time) of rescuing the Nation from the grip of the Philistines.

Finally, in gratitude for the news they had received, Manoah and his wife first sought to offer hospitality to their visitor before asking the Angel of the Lord his name. In paraphrase again, he told them that whilst he would not eat their food, it would be appropriate to make an offering to the Lord. As for his name, well that is a secret (Heb, ‘pil’iy’).

They made an offering to the Lord. We can only wonder at what they felt as their visitor dramatically ascended into the heavens in the flame of the altar fire. They were frightened. They thought they would die because of what they had seen (they thought he was God Himself).

The last two verses of our parashah cover several years. Samson was born. As he grew up the Lord blessed him. We must assume that his parents trained him in the Nazarite way, because when he was an adult the Spirit of the Lord began to move upon him. The rest, as they say, is history. The end of the story is deliverance from the Philistines.

What a mighty God we serve.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

 Haftarah Reflections   34

Torah portion             Numbers  1 : 1 – 4 : 20 

Haftarah portion     Hosea 2 : 1 - 20

Listen to the Prophets

What a confronting passage of Scripture this week.

We might recall that the Torah parashah for this week is about the start of the wilderness journey of the Israelites. A journey distance which COULD have been completed in about a fortnight, but which, for reasons we know, took about 40 years whilst God dealt with the issues which the people had brought about due to their mistrust and fear.

In the Haftarah portion, Hosea, like Amos before him, was called by God to address issues of immorality and corruption (in spite of, or perhaps because of, their prosperity and growth) which pervaded the society of the tribes of the Northern Kingdom, Israel. (sometimes also referred to as Ephraim, from the name of their largest tribe). Although Hosea did not know this, a mere 30 years after his warnings to this people, they were actually taken into exile by the Assyrians.

Here is our first salutary lesson today. Because we know the history, we clearly see Hosea as a faithful servant of Almighty God, taking an unappealing, but timely, message of warning of the need for repentance to a people about to face the wrath and judgement of a Holy God. Most Christian believers are aware that Yeshua will return to rule and reign in the Messianic age to come. BUT, no-one knows the actual date and time when that event will take place. It may this year, or in a hundred years from now. What we do know is that when He does return, it will then be too late for those not already part of the Kingdom of God. For the Israelites in our parashah it was a mere 30 years. How long is it for our family, our friends, our workmates, our neighbours? How many “Hosea’s” are reading this reflection today?

And there is a lot more. In order to emphasise to Hosea the fractured relationship between those Israelites of the Northern Kingdom and God, Hosea was told to take Gomer, a prostitute, as his wife. Wow!!!  In this marriage he would experience at first hand the kind of issues God Himself faced in dealing with the unfaithful Nation of Israel.

The text of our parashah, consists entirely of the words the Lord spoke to Hosea, which he was to convey to the people. Although the words are framed as those of one person to another, it is quickly evident that these are the innermost feelings of God towards His covenant partner, Israel. The words are framed as a husband to a wife. A marriage is a covenant between two people in love. It is supposed to be ‘until death us do part’ in today’s terminology. The husband is faithful, but in this case He is desperately pained at the unfaithful behaviour of his wife.

Now there is an extremely important difference here between the covenant that God has with Israel, and the familiar covenant of marriage we know today. In our age we are much too familiar with divorce. Occasionally people have what is called an amicable ‘settlement’. In most cases however, there are bitter conflicts which cause long lasting enmity. Certainly much enduring hurt for both the husband and the wife, which is then also extended to any children of that marriage union.

In our parashah today, we certainly see the hurt, the disgust, the pained outbursts of the husband. We also see the expression of the ills that will inevitably befall the unfaithful wife, HOWEVER, from verse 14 of this text we also see the expressions of intent, on the part of the faithful husband, to restore the marriage.

There are words of continuing love from the ‘husband’. Not only a willingness to forgive the wayward behaviour, but again to cherish and nurture the unfaithful wife back into the matrimonial home. As we read the last couple of verses of our text, we see the promise of a renewed and better relationship. Can you see, as I can, the promise here of a New Covenant? The same New Covenant which Jeremiah introduced in more specific terms about 150 years later. The Covenant which would be sealed in the blood of God’s only Son, Yeshua. The Covenant, which the Scriptures tell us CANNOT be broken. No more unfaithfulness.

We might find it difficult to conceive of a life without sin. That is because we live in a sinful world today. A ‘lawless’ (Torahless, see Matthew 7:23) world. But then, in the Messianic age to come, we are promised a world where the Torah of God will be in our minds (because He will put it there), and it will be written on our hearts.

Come quickly Yeshua Ha’Mashiach.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

 Haftarah Reflections   33  

Torah portion            Leviticus  26 : 3 – 27 : 34 

Haftarah portion     Jeremiah 16 : 19 – 17 : 14

Listen to the Prophets

The word “haftarah”, means something like ‘completion, ending or conclusion’. To that extent then, it is supplementary to the Torah reading, adds something, and then finishes.

The Leviticus Torah passage has a focus on idolatry. Unsurprising then, the sages decided to couple that reading with this section from the prophecy of Jeremiah.

A major distinguishing feature between Israel and other nations (gentile nations) around them, was the ‘gods’ they worshipped. YHWH Elohim, the God of Israel had commanded that the Israelites should have ‘no other gods before Me’. So, our parashah today begins with Jeremiah seeing a day when the gentiles would recognize Israel’s God and say “we have been misled, our fathers taught us to worship futile, worthless, unprofitable things”. God then speaks to Jeremiah , quoting from the prophet Amos, that He would cause the gentiles to ‘know My hand and MY might and they shall know that My Name is YHWH Elohim’.

It is not the first time in Scripture that we see that God had the intention that gentiles would know Him ... BUT always in the context of those gentiles recognizing Him as the God of Israel. Perhaps this is best illustrated in the writings of the Apostle Paul to the Romans. There Paul likens gentile inclusion to a “grafting” onto the natural olive tree of Israel. In our church setting today we have somehow managed to completely change that to require Israel to be “grafted” onto the ‘wild olive’ tree of the gentiles!!

However, Jeremiah’s burden is for Judea. He had witnessed the wanton disobedience the tribes of the Northern Kingdom, and seen the consequence. We saw in last week’s parashah, although later in time than this week’s reading, that God did eventually cause Judah also to be taken captive.

Jeremiah’s prophetic vision is a long recitation of warning. In Chapter 17 v 5 we find him quoting Isaiah, a prophet with a similar task of warning these two tribes in the Southern Kingdom against their calamitous path of following the ways of the Northern tribes.

What a lesson this provides for us. “Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart departs from the Lord”.  Can anyone else recognize man’s state today in that statement? The resulting consequence is catastrophic. Yet every day we see and hear evidence of man’s utter arrogance towards our Creator.

In absolute contrast, verses 7,8 of the same chapter, quoting the psalmist we read the promise God has made to those whose heart is firmly on  Him    “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, and whose hope is the LORD. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit.”  It is a great description of safety, fruitfulness and productive life.  And it is for those who trust in the Lord.

Why would anyone choose anything else?

Well, Jeremiah had a ‘direct’ line to God. And God revealed truth to Jeremiah when He told him what to say next.

“The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; who can know it?  I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.”

Friends, there can be NO clearer statement from YHWH Elohim anywhere in the Scriptures. That verse of Scripture should be emblazoned on our mind ... every day. Jeremiah had been given the onerous task of warning the people to mend their ways. How easy it is to find fault in others. To see the wrong course being charted by friends and relatives, even spouses!

Is anyone else like me? I can see so clearly how these Israelites of old went wrong, time and again. Why did they keep repeating mistakes over and over again and again?

Then the bombshell! They were just like I am​. That’s the bad news. Let us rather focus on the really good news here in verses 7,8. Read a very slightly different version in Psalm 1. Be blessed as you take care to heed the warnings, not only of Jeremiah, but that of YHWH Elohim. “I, the LORD, search the heart.”

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   32

Torah portion             Leviticus  25 : 1 – 26 :2 

Haftarah portion     Jeremiah 32 : 6 - 27

Listen to the Prophets

The sages, seemingly, chose this Haftarah passage because it tells a story of land redemption. Leviticus 25 has much to say about land rights, buying, selling and redeeming land, as well as the laws of ‘Shemitah’ and ‘Jubilee’.

Jeremiah was from a priestly family who lived in Anathoth, a township about five Km. north of Jerusalem. The Lord had called Jeremiah to prophesy against the Judeans because of their total disregard of their covenant obligations. It was a ‘calling’ which caused Jeremiah much grief. He was sometime known as the ‘weeping prophet’ because of the heartache he endured in seeing the indifferent neglect of the people to their covenant agreement with God, through many of his 40 years of prophetic ministry. (I suspect that he would still be ‘weeping’ today at the indifference of the ‘church’ to that covenant.)

The Lord told Jeremiah that his uncle would come and ask him to fulfil his right of inheritance in buying a field in his hometown, Anathoth. Now here is a very important lesson for us.

The Lord had also told Jeremiah, (see verse 3), that the king of Babylon was about to take possession of the city and take Zedekiah, king of Judah captive. Jeremiah gave this bad news to Zedekiah and for his trouble he was now languishing in jail! Obviously, with the land about to be taken by a foreign invader, it could be seen as the very worst time to make a land purchase. Look closely at verse eight, the last sentence says “Then I knew that this was the word of the Lord”.

The lesson is this. Jeremiah, having been assured that he had indeed received the “word from the Lord”, even though common sense and instinct would say it was a bad time to buy a field, went ahead in obedience to the word he had received and bought the field. Of course, Jeremiah had the great advantage of having the ‘word of the Lord’ so clearly confirmed to him. Too often, I think, we can be so eager to hear ‘a word from the Lord’ (and we should all expect the Lord to speak to us) that we do not seek, and wait for, the confirmation of that word from the Lord before we act.

The parashah continues with the details of the transaction, including the very important step of preserving the deeds of the property in jars of clay. Sometime during this transaction, the Lord had assured Jeremiah that a day would come when the Israelites would return from the Babylonian captivity and once again possess houses and vineyards and fields in the land again.

Then Jeremiah prayed.

“ 'Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. There is nothing too hard for You.” 

An amazing prayer of faith and trust. Then almost in the same breath, Jeremiah, vented his concern as he continued in prayer.

“What You have spoken has happened; there You see it! nd You have said to me, O Lord GOD, "Buy the field for money, and take witnesses"!—yet the city has been given into the hand of the Chaldeans.' "

It seems as though Jeremiah, having obediently bought the field, couldn’t believe that God would actually do what He said He would do How human is that !! Then God puts His seal on matters as He responds to Jeremiah’s prayer. Asking Jeremiah to stand firm in his faith, quoting back to Jeremiah his own words of faith.

“Then the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah, saying,"Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard  for Me?”

Jeremiah showed himself to be a man of great faith and obedience, but just like us, he went through times of questioning. The hallmark of his relationship with God was that he engaged in ‘conversation with God’. We have the benefit of seeing the whole outcome. For Jeremiah, he lived his faith in expectation and trust. Our parashah today is there for our encouragement, so that our faith might be strengthened too.

What a might God we serve.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   31

Torah portion            Leviticus  21 : 3  to  24 : 23

Haftarah portion     Ezekiel  44 : 15 – 31

Listen to the Prophets

We continue our ‘reflections’ on the Haftarah, a Hebrew word which has no root connection to the word Torah, and which means ‘separation’, ‘ending’, or ‘completion’. In synagogues it is a passage of Scripture read after the Torah portion and is accompanied by a blessing of thanks for the Prophets.

It is appropriate to read the weekly Torah portion to see how the Prophets spoke in close connection to God’s instructions to the people, but the Haftarah ‘reflections’ assume that to have been done already.

Ezekiel was a young man, of a priestly family, who was taken to Babylon as a captive, with King Joachim, about 11 years before the captivity of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar. He was in Tel Aviv (not the present city) by the banks of the River Chebar, (Ezekiel 3 : 15) when the Lord commissioned him to be a watchman, and prophet, for Israel. In that capacity, Ezekiel was shown many things.

Relevant to our ‘reflection’ today, God showed him a future Temple. A Temple still not yet constructed after over 2,500 years. A Temple described in great detail in chapters 40 to 48 of Ezekiel’s prophecy. A Temple which will function in the “Messianic” age to come.

We know that the continuous Temple sacrificial system was satisfied, for us, by the once for all time atoning death of Yeshua (the Lamb that was slain). Consequently it is often taught that there is no need for another Temple. There is much controversy about this matter. And yet, it is clear that Ezekiel described a Temple yet to be built. It will be in Jerusalem. It will have priests overseeing a sacrificial system. And those priests will be from the family descended from Zadok, the High Priest in David’s time. The very priest who anointed Solomon as King, and who became the first High Priest in the Temple later built by Solomon.

Zadok was exemplary in his service. He stood up straight when others wavered. His family (descendants) is favoured by God for this exemplary behaviour. God seemingly ‘rewards’ the faithful. Something worthy of our reflection isn’t it?

Much of what we read in our Haftarah today is repetitious of things contained in the Leviticus parashah, which relates to the Tabernacle. God is showing Ezekiel the importance of how He is to be approached, and all this in the context of a future Temple in Jerusalem. There are two main reasons for this understanding. Firstly, Ezekiel’s vision is of a time AFTER the Israelites have been regathered into the Land “from ALL the countries into which they were scattered”. That is taking place right NOW. Secondly, The Glory of the Lord will enter the Temple by way of “the eastern gate”.    

(Legends abound as to why Suleiman the great closed the Gate while the walls of Jerusalem were being rebuilt about 500 years ago, some say a rumour swept Jerusalem at that time that the Messiah was coming. Suleiman called together some Jewish rabbis and asked them to tell him about the Messiah. They described the Messiah as a great military leader who would be sent by God from the east. He would enter the Eastern Gate and liberate the city from foreign control  …. So Suleiman fixed that by bricking up the gate and putting a cemetery in front of it!!!).

The details are there for you to read, but the lessons to be learned are that God demands a higher level of ‘holiness’ from those who serve in the priesthood. When we enter God’s service, we need to be especially careful about our attitudes and demeanour. Even concerning their outward appearance, their well-groomed hair and beard are mentioned in our text. In part I think that is because the eye of the ‘world’ is more closely focussed on us.                 

(I well remember as a young Christian, both in school and shortly afterwards in the Air Force, having declared my faith, all the people with whom I worked and lived would quickly correct me if they perceived remarks or behaviour by me which they considered inappropriate for a “Christian”!!).

When we read detail passages such as this, it is certain that we will come across things that seem odd to us. We are prone to ask the question “Why?” In some cases even rejecting the matter because we cannot understand it. Dear friends, remember that God is God. He is under no obligation to explain Himself to us. BUT, He does have the right to ask us to accept Him, on His terms. There is blessing for so doing. From our passage today we can see how the family of Zadok is favoured by God because that man was unwavering and faithful in the task he was called to perform. So may it be for us.                     

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   30

Torah portion              Leviticus   19 : 1  to 20 : 27  

Haftarah portion       Amos  9 : 7 - 15   

Listen to the Prophets

Amos, the sheep farmer from Tekoa, a town just south of Bethlehem in Judea, was commissioned by God to take a strong message of warning to the wayward Northern Kingdom of Israel.

Our parashah today is set at a time when, as history records, there was precious little time left, probably less than 40 years, for the tribes of the North to repent of their wickedness and to turn again to the covenant promises which had been made by them and their forefathers before them. We are now in the reign of king Jereboam 2, almost 200 years after the separation of the tribes into North and South.

Jereboam 1, the first king of Israel, had set up two worship centres in that territory, one in the south at Bethel and one in the north at Dan. In both places he set up golden calves as emblems of worship in opposition to the Temple which Solomon had built in Jerusalem, and in defiance of God’s instruction regarding the place where He was to be worshipped.

God had sent several prophets to warn the people that they were heading for disaster. Ahijah, Jehu, Elijah, Elisha, Jonah, Hosea, Amos and Oded specifically. Isaiah, Jeremiah and others also had words of warning to the South, using the behaviour of these Northern neighbours as an example of the righteous judgement of God.

With that background, we may now understand the quite difficult language which Amos uses as he delivers this dire ‘final warning’ to this wayward people. Remember that there were several previous attempts by God to get these folk to change their ways.

“Are you not like the people of Ethiopia to Me, O children of Israel? Says the Lord. Did I not bring up Israel from Egypt, the Philistines from Caphtor (Crete), and the Syrians from Kir?”

A strong reminder that God had not only brought Israel to the Land. But also the Philistines and the Syrians !! The message being that NONE of them was given the right to unconditional permanency of possession. Only the Israelites were given the RIGHT to live in the Land, but that was specifically conditional upon adherence to living as God had instructed them. Follow me closely here. God declares that He has His eyes upon them, and unless they change their ways, He intends to remove them from the Land, but will not utterly destroy them. They are to be “sifted” as grain is sifted, yet not destroyed. For many, their disobedient arrogance will result in death (by sword at the hand of their enemies, the Assyrians in this case), because of their defiant response to the voice of the prophets, that “this calamity shall not overtake nor confront us”. (verse 10).

From verse 11, God tells Amos that the “sukkah” of David, now broken down and in desperate need of restoration, will be so restored. This is a direct reference to a future coming of Messiah. Including the return of Messiah which is still ahead of us today. There are some distinguishing characteristics of this dynasty which make it uniquely different to the first Davidic dynasty. It will be a permanent Kingdom. It will include believing Gentiles in its makeup. (the reference to Edom, gentiles, here is related to the prophetic pronouncement in Numbers 24:18)

It will herald substantial prosperity for those who are part of it. It speaks of the Messianic Kingdom. That is what is meant by the ‘plowman overtaking the reaper’ and the ‘hills flowing with sweet wine’. Our parashah concludes with a really up to the minute fulfilment of that prophecy made about 3,000 years ago. We are seeing the beginnings of that fulfilment in our time. God is calling His people back to the Land in unprecedented numbers. Not for their sake, but for His Holy Name’s sake, that the world may know that He is the Lord.

No one could possibly conclude that this is a particularly attractive time for Jews to return to Israel. Quite the opposite. Ebenezer Operation Exodus, a Christian ministry with a mission to assist Jews make Aliyah, was founded in 1991, during ‘the Gulf war’. Everyone trying to leave the Middle East as fast as they could. Gustav Scheller and his team of praying believers, answered the call of God to get into Israel at that very time, to pray there. The result, this God anointed ministry, assisting many tens, even hundreds, of thousands in the last 25 years. Jews who were desperate to escape tyrannical regimes in the former Soviet Union.

Amos couldn’t see this, but he faithfully warned the people of his day about God’s righteous judgement. And in that righteous judgement, God told of the restoration we see today. Amazing.

The word of God is precise. It is unfailing. It is challenging. Just as God warned the people of Israel to ‘get their house in order’, He is telling us today, through His word, ‘get your house in order’. The time is short. The clock of time is running down. No-one knows the timing but God Himself. It was exactly the same for the Israelites of the Northern Kingdom. We ignore the warnings of a righteous Judge at our peril.

What does the Lord require of us? “To do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God”

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   29      

Torah portion             Leviticus   16 : 1  to 18 : 30  

Haftarah portion     1 Samuel  20 : 18 - 42   

Listen to the Prophets

This week’s parashah is full of emotion. Lots of different emotions. You may recognize jealousy, envy, anger, pride, gentle caring, love, loyalty, and maybe more. And in each of them, we can see good and bad outcomes.

In brief, Samuel had been a good Judge over the Israelites for about 12 years. As he got older, his sons took on the role, but lacked the honour of their father. They were corrupt, took bribes and perverted the course of justice. So eventually, the people were so dismayed by the situation that they opted to have a king reign over them. Saul was chosen. Very early in his reign, Samuel, (who whilst technically no longer Judge over Israel, continued to exercise an influetial role as elder statesman) became aware of his shortcomings, and told him so. He went further and told Saul that God would choose another to replace him. That one was the youthful David, son of Jesse. At that point, the Scriptures tell us, the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul.

Then David’s popularity soared, with the conquest of Goliath, and his humble attitude. King Saul, now in the grip of a ‘troubled’ spirit, sought ways to dispose of David. He offered him his daughter in marriage. He reasoned that this would afford him influence in David’s life and plotted that he could then send David into the fierce battles with the Philistines, expecting him not to survive, but he did. And that increased David’s popularity. To cap it all off, Saul’s son, Jonathan became very close friends with David. Saul was extremely angry.

But as our parashah opens this week David had just put Jonathan ‘on the spot’ to find out if it were true that his father wanted to get rid of him. In great caution, and with much wisdom, David decided to absent himself, even though he was now the king’s son-in-law, from the family meal table at the next New Moon festival, whilst he awaited confirmation from Jonathan about Saul’s attitude towards him.

The rest of the story is very well known. Firstly, Jonathan himself almost lost his life when his father, Saul, threw a spear at him. Secondly, that gave Jonathan all the confirmation he needed about his father’s state of mind towards his close friend David. Thirdly, Jonathan warned David by their agreed signal with the arrows. And our parashah ends with the tearful farewell between the two friends.

The lessons we can take from this story are about guarding our emotions, on the one hand, and letting our emotions free on the other.

The problems emerged with Saul becoming inflated with pride. His appointment as king was certainly an honour. He was anointed by Samuel, and approved by God, for the task. But it was not too long before he saw himself as leader in his own right and by his own strength.

We learn an important lesson here. When God approves us for service in His Name, it is paramount that we recognize His authority. In God appointed roles, we have NO authority other than that which He ordains. Obedience to His precepts and commandments is a vital element in maintaining His approval. In Saul’s case, he knew that God had commissioned Samuel to convey His instructions. Saul ignored those instructions, thinking that he knew a better way. His lack of control, or inability to submit his emotions to God in obedience, gave rise to fierce anger. And isn’t Satan ready to jump in and revel in that situation?

When the correction came, Saul again sought to circumvent that outcome by getting rid of the person God had clearly chosen to do His work. Modern day examples of failure of this kind are all around us. And it is all centred in personal pride. Some greatly gifted young men and women have been effectively ‘sidelined’ by pride driven older people in positions of authority within our modern day church scenarios. Shame.

On the opposite side of the ‘coin’, we see great love and loyalty exhibited. Jonathan and David had developed a great friendship. Admiration even. That was birthed, in no small measure, by Jonathan observing the ‘mighty’ acts of courage and achievement which were obvious in David’s life. But in these, Jonathan could see the way God Himself was taking care of David. He recognized the anointing of God on his friend. And Jonathan wanted to be part of that.

Now this provides another lesson. Most of us are sensitive enough to see, and know, when God is at work in a person’s life. There is an aura, a presence, which can be felt when we are in the company of a person who is walking closely with the Lord. An anointing which is palpable. Jonathan knew it. It is a characteristic which cannot be faked. And when faking is attempted, it becomes all the more obvious.

Jonathan risked his life to shield his friend David. Satan is hard at work trying to pull down those who are in God’s holy service. We should try to emulate Jonathan’s example. It is not ‘blind’ loyalty which is required, but a discerning spirit.

God grant that we too may seek His face, be faithful to His calling, and supportive of those who are doing the will of Almighty God.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   28

Torah portion             Leviticus 12 : 1  to 13 : 59

Haftarah portion     2 Kings  7 : 3 - 20   

Listen to the Prophets

We need to understand the background to this parashah.

Elisha was prophesying in Samaria, the capital city of the Northern kingdom. God had given him insight into the thoughts of the king of Syria, so that all his plans were laid open to Elisha. The city was besieged by the Syrians, and that resulted in a severe famine there. We do not know how long this siege lasted, but we do know it brought the inhabitants to a perilous state. The price of the little food which was available was astronomic. Then the king of Israel was told that some were even resorting to cannibalism. He was distraught. And he blamed Elisha for their predicament, threatening to put Elisha to death if he could find him.

Then the king of Israel uttered words which have been oft repeated by those who are ready to blame Him for everything that goes wrong in society. In paraphrase he said “What sort of God is it that brings such things on us. I cannot worship a god like that”.

Elisha knows what the king has just said, and he counters with this:- “Tomorrow,  at about this time, a seah of fine flour will sell for one shekel, and two seahs of barley for one shekel”. Cheap as chips so to speak. (it is difficult to be precise, but my research suggests that a ‘seah’ COULD be about 5 Kg.)

An officer of the king heard Elisha’s prophecy and ridiculed him. “even if it fell out of the sky it would never be that cheap”. Elisha, never shy or short of a comment, told the officer that he would see it with his own eyes, but he would not eat any of it. Another bold prophecy, since everyone was hungry.

So to the story, and the lesson, in this week’s parashah.

Four unfortunate men, stricken with leprosy, had been sent outside the gates of the city. This was strictly in accord with the Levitical law in order to prevent the spread of the disease. They were just as hungry as the people inside the walls of the city, and relied on those inside for their food. They had not eaten for some considerable time, and were obviously approaching desperation. They reasoned together. If we stay here, we die. If we go into the city, we die. If we surrender ourselves to the besieging Syrian army, they might feed us, if so, we live. If they don’t, we die. Better for us to take the one chance we have to survive. So they did.

When they arrived at the Syrian camp, it was empty of people. God had caused the Syrians to hear the sounds of a great advancing army. So they left in great haste and left everything behind. The four lepers set about eating the plenteous supply of food, and plundering the valuables. A short while into their binge, one of them stopped, called the others and said “what we are doing is not right”. The Spirit of God moved on them to see that they had found the means of survival available for the besieged city, but they were selfishly contenting themselves, and remaining silent. This was a day of good news, but they were keeping it to themselves.

An important lesson.

We might consider ourselves analogous to those lepers. We were lost, outside the camp, every option we had led to death, except one. In that analogy, the well-stocked Syrian camp, may be likened to the boundless grace of God, in Yeshua, who provided the means of our salvation. Many of us are content to ‘plunder’ the camp for all the goodies we can get, getting fatter, but not growing!  The voice of the Holy Spirit is prompting us in this parashah to consider if what we are doing is right. Should we keep this good news to ourselves, or should we, like the lepers in our parashah, go back to the city, and give them the good news that salvation is available to any who wish to step out of the starving city, and receive it.

Of course, in our story, eventually, the people heard the good news and rushed out to receive the food which was available.

The parashah ends with the confirmation of Elisha’s prophecy. In the gateway of the city, one seah of fine flour sold for one shekel, and two seahs of barley for the same. Such was the rush at the gate of the city that the king’s officer, who had been so sceptical, saw it all with his own eyes, but was trampled to death in the stampede of people.

Another important lesson.

God speaks as clearly today as He did in the days of Elisha. Often, that word comes as a still small voice, sometimes as a ‘rhema’ from the Holy Scriptures.  It could even be through a ‘reflection’ on this parashah! Occasionally it may come from a person with a prophetic gifting, but that is quite rare in our day, and we are cautioned in Scripture to test such prophets before we take notice of them. But however that word is received, it is very unwise to treat it with contempt. God’s Word will always accomplish the purpose for which it is sent.

Shabbat Shalom 

RS

Haftarah Reflections   27  

Torah portion            Leviticus 12 : 1  to 13 : 59  

Haftarah portion     Ezekiel  45 : 16  to  46 :  18  

Listen to the Prophets

Our parashah this week is set in the prophetic announcement of the Messianic Age Temple. Obviously not yet constructed. It presents challenges which most of us would rather not deal with! The whole vision of Ezekiel contains much detail and it is extremely difficult for us to comprehend. So we are left with a simple choice. God said it, so I believe it, OR Ezekiel got it wrong.

My conviction is that “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable … etc”. Almost one fifth of Ezekiel’s message is taken up with this Temple vision. The conclusion I draw from that is the God considers it to be important.

The dilemma for many will result from teaching which has been prevalent in our churches over many years. That teaching concludes that Yeshua kept all the commandments, so a) we do not have to, and b) The “Old Testament” has been superseded by the “New Testament”. Both of those statements are demonstrably false. They do not have any foundation in the Scriptures. That teaching results from centuries of errant theology which commenced when the gentile believing community was severed from its Hebraic foundations. This has, in turn, resulted in a serious mal-nourishment regarding the Hebrew Scriptures in our churches today.

(It is somewhat ironic that the Torah portion assigned for this week’s reading deals with “uncleanness” and “leprous conditions”. What I have described above may be seen by some as analogous to both of those conditions in the church! Both conditions need to be dealt with so that healing may occur)

The parashah provides detail of the area assigned for this Holy place, the new Temple and its surrounds. It is an enormous tract of land. There is no need for me to dwell on that, other than to say that as you read the text, keep in mind that 25,000 cubits approximates to 12 Km. and 10,000 cubits would be nearly 5 Km. Those dimensions are approximate, but they provide an indication that it describes a future, rather than a former Temple district.

But then we have another dilemma. Who is “the prince”? The most obvious course is to consider that he is Messiah, and MANY commentators have made this conclusion. The main pointer being the fact that the “prince” appears to have exclusive access to the Eastern Gate of the Temple. But there are some difficulties with this conclusion. The first is immediately evident in the fact that this “prince” has only a relatively small allotment of land in the millennial kingdom. In Psalm 2 we read that “I have set My Kingdom My holy hill of Zion”. That is consistent with our universal belief that Yeshua will return to this earth to “rule and reign” in Jerusalem. The whole kingdom is His. In fact, the whole earth is His. So this apportionment of a quite large tract of land, which is in fact relatively small in relation to the whole, surely cannot be that of the King. One day we will know!!! I am not inclined to make this a point of dispute, but it is interesting.

The next issue which causes concern are the detailed instructions regarding the sacrificial system, no longer functioning today because there is no Temple in Jerusalem, which is evidently revived when the Temple described by Ezekiel is constructed.

Commentators are again divided on this. Why would there be a sacrificial system when the Messiah is reigning in Jerusalem? The answer is twofold. The first is fact. God has declared it in this word to Ezekiel. The second is speculative. They will be as a memorial to the finished work of Messiah.

Before we write off this second supposition, we should remember that when Yeshua shared His last Pesach seder with His disciples He instituted a memorial of that occasion. That memorial is called “Communion” or other names depending on the teaching of a particular Christian denomination. That memorial also varies in frequency in different congregations. My reading of the Scriptures cause me to see it as an annual memorial at Pesach. So the principle of memorial acts of celebration is not new.

It is also worthy of note that there were several types of sacrifices, and none of them were for removal of sin, which is the unique characteristic of the sacrificial offering made by Yeshua. The Mosaic sacrificial system was introduced to allow the offeror to “draw near” to God. To recognize the ‘holiness’ of God, and to appreciate His unique status in their lives.

This parashah has probably raised more questions than answers. My ‘reflection’ on it has caused me to think more deeply, and to appreciate the wonder and majesty of Almighty God. I know He does all things well. My trust is in Him.

May the Lord provide insight into this Scripture, share it with someone and you will both be blessed.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   26

Torah portion             Leviticus 9 : 1  to 11 : 47  

Haftarah portion     Ezekiel  36 : 16 - 38  

Listen to the Prophets

What a start to this week’s haftarah.

YHWH Elohim is telling Ezekiel that Israel behaved abominably when they were presented with the privilege of having a Land to call their own. God had pleaded with the Israelites to live righteously, with each other, and before Him, so that their example would be a ‘light to the nations around them’. Instead, God saw that their behaviour was outrageously bad. He describes it as like a discarded menstrual pad. Isaiah has a similar description of ‘all our righteousness’.  His use of the term ‘filthy rags’ in Isaiah 64 is precisely the same as that here in Ezekiel.

So God has given Ezekiel the reason why He chose to disperse the Judeans, which in Ezekiel’ day was to Babylon, where he himself was exiled. But the language of this message suggests that it is much broader in scope than just Babylon. The text indicates that the dispersion was to many nations. Our knowledge of history tells us that this is prophetic of another dispersion which took place about 750 years later, when the Romans expelled the Jews from the Land entirely in bout 134 C.E.

What follows is one of the most illuminating passages of Scripture, declaring the unfailing love God has for the Jewish people, and the reasons why He is restoring them to the Land, in spite of their many failings.

The predication is that the nations to which they were scattered would be somewhat puzzled by the fact that, even though they hold to their faith as Jews, they have been exiled from the Land. Our text tells us that God is vitally concerned that this amounts to a profanity to His Name. So, in the fullness of time, He has chosen to restore the Jews to their Land.

This is a great mystery to those in our churches who adhere to a doctrine known as “Replacement Theology”. It is a doctrine which sees the ‘church’ as having replaced Israel as God’s chosen ones. A brand new ‘special treasure’ if you will.

There are many places in the Scriptures which demonstrate this doctrine to be false. But none so clear as this haftarah parashah today. God clearly says that it is ‘not for their sakes’ that they are being restored to the Land, but “for MY holy Name’s sake”. Why is that important? That the world may know that I am the LORD. When will the world see that? When they see that YHWH Elohim is “hallowed” in you (Israel) before their eyes.

“Hallowed” means to respect, revere, honour as holy, consecrate.

We see the Jews returning to Israel in increasing numbers this very day. But the vast majority of those making ‘aliyah’ are secular Jews. They are returning to the Land in unbelief. But they are returning.

Now here is the prophetic message for us as we study this parashah. It is spelled out very clearly.

The plan of God for man is unfolding before our eyes. Be excited about it. Understand it. Get on board with it. Play your part in it. (The ministry of Zion’s Voice is literally “up to its neck” in supporting this move of God both by prayer, and financially.)

And this is the really exciting part.

When God’s timing is right, He “will sprinkle clean water on them” and “they will be cleansed of all their filthiness and idolatry”. And finally He says “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you”. At which time “I will cause you to walk in My statutes and you WILL keep My judgements and do them”.

My dear friends, this is the time when God will make that NEW COVENANT with the House of Israel and the House of Judah. The prophet Ezekiel is showing us that God is taking the Jews back to the Land so that He can enter into that covenant which they will NOT BE ABLE TO BREAK. Jeremiah said it, the writer to the Hebrews restated it, and Ezekiel is confirming it.

I would like to suggest that all who read this ‘reflection’ take time to read the parashah again. Marvel at the fact that we are seeing prophecy unfold before us, and determine to participate in God’s plan for Israel, by prayer, and by financially supporting those ministries which are front and centre in harmony with this prophecy.

Finally, as God leads us, let us be bold to speak. Let us be ready to give a reason for the hope that is within us. And, if I am correct in my ‘reflection’ on this parashah, we have found all the reason we need.

To His great Name be the glory.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   25

Torah portion             Leviticus 6 : 8  to 8 : 36  

Haftarah portion     Jeremiah  7 : 21  to 8 : 3 and 9 : 22,23  

Listen to the Prophets

As we open the parashah this week we immediately become conscious of the anger of God towards the Israelites of Jeremiah’s day. The tone of this discourse is set by the words at the beginning of this chapter which precede this reading. God is telling Jeremiah that he should continue his warnings of judgement, but that the people would not listen. How sad and discouraging. But the faithful Jeremiah spoke anyway.

The corresponding Torah reading this week concerns the instructions regarding the various sacrificial offerings and the anointing of the High priest to accept such offerings.

To paraphrase this haftarah portion, God was saying, “When I brought you out of Egypt (and that was hundreds of years earlier), I didn’t demand that you make sacrifices, I wanted you to obey My voice, to live in harmony with Me, to be My people”.  Of course, God did introduce the sacrificial system of drawing close to Himself in Moses day, but by their wanton disobedience they were now seemingly making a mockery of those sacrifices. So God says “don’t offer them to Me, eat them yourselves”.

The whole tone is one of deep disappointment. Frustration even. Over the centuries, God had sent warning after warning through His servants, the prophets, the judges, and the kings. Still the people were “doing that which was right in their own eyes”

As I read this message, and a timely one it is, I think that very little has changed. Aren’t the same things happening today? Everyone apparently doing that which is right in their own eyes. It may even be considered worse, because in addition to the verbal warnings of the prophets to the people, today we also have the written record of all that God had taught the people who are called by His Name. If God was frustrated with them, how much more with those of us who this day take little or no heed to His word. Then heap blame upon Him for all that is wrong in our world.

When God promised Abraham that He would provide a land in which his offspring would live, it was so that those people would be a “light to the nations around them”. Furthermore God told them that the reason why the Canaanites were to be dispossessed of the land was because of their abominations, which included human sacrifice, gross sexual misconduct and lewd living. Hadn’t He even provided a solemn warning in the days of Lot, when, for the same reasons, He had completely destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah? And now, Jeremiah is confronted with the same issues amongst his own people.

The Hinnom Valley, identified today approximately running from the Jaffa Gate, the Sultan’s Pool and joins the southern edge of the Kidron Valley, had a horrific history. Our text tells us that it would be known as the “Field of Slaughter”. It is the place where Judas Iscariot is said to have purchased a burial field with the ‘thirty pieces of silver’, and was well named the ‘field of blood’. It is a real place. It is not mythical. Here, was a place of sacrifice to Molech, where parents offered their children to be burned in the fire. Dreadful atrocities. It was here that some of the Israelites joined in this barbarous practice. This is the burden of Jeremiah’s task of warning in this parashah.

I also see a connection here with events still future to us. In Revelation 19 we read about the time when God will call the peoples of the nations to account. It will be a time of unspeakable slaughter as nations join in conflict with Israel. It is a time when the angel of God will call the birds to feast on the remains of those killed in the battle.(just as our reading this week declares) It hardly bears thinking about, but such will be the wrath of God on those who seek to destroy Israel in the last days.

But that is in the future. What about today.

Jeremiah’s message was prophetic of what would happen when the people continued in disobedience and idolatry. It did not have to be so. There was always the option of walking uprightly before the Lord. In all its history, there were times of great blessing for the Israelites as they walked obediently before God. Invariably, they were times when they had an upright and honourable leader. Not all leaders were honourable and the people suffered as a result.

Now here is the good news.

In His infinite love and grace towards us, God has provided the perfect leader for us today. His Name is Yeshua. The way has been made plain. The atoning sacrifice He made is complete. All that remains is our resolve to follow Him. To walk in obedience to His commandments. It is not “doing what is right in our own eyes”.

Just like the people in our parashah, we are presented with a choice between life and death. Choose life.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   24

Torah portion             Leviticus 1 : 1  to 6 : 7  

Haftarah portion     1 Samuel  15 : 2  -  34  

Listen to the Prophets

But Samuel said, “What then is this bleating of the sheep in my ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear?”

This week we see the judgement of God in action. We are familiar with the ‘love’ aspect of God’s character, which even the world recognizes, and with which we readily identify. We are less able to fully understand the righteousness of God which is expressed in our parashah today. That is God, the righteous judge. But it is important that we do.

The Amalekites were a nomadic people. They take their name from Amalek, a grandson of Esau. They had a history of enmity towards Israel. They were a people which chose to harass the vulnerable Children of Israel when they first left Egypt, The Israelites were vulnerable because they were in a desert place, water was scarce, and they pined for the security they knew in Egypt, even though they were in slavery there.

At the place where Moses struck the rock at Horeb, Amalek came and fought with the Israelites. The story is well known. As Aaron and Hur held Moses arms high, the Israelites prevailed, and when Moses arms lowered in fatigue, Amalek prevailed. In the end Amalek was defeated. Moses there declared that God was “Jehovah Nissi” (The Lord is my banner). 

But God said two things to Moses. Firstly, that ‘there would be war with Amalek from generation to generation’.  Secondly, that He would ‘utterly blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven’.  The Amalekites joined in with Midianites, Moabites, Hittites, Edomites, you name it, anyone who had a battle with Israel. But here, in our parashah today, God said “enough is enough”.

Samuel called Saul, the recently anointed king of Israel, and told him that he was to take an army and ‘blot out’ the Amalekites. Everything. Let nothing remain. Saul assembled a large army of over 200,000 foot soldiers, and struck them. They were chased across the length of their territory, which was at that time part of Edom. Many thousands died in that pursuit, But Saul saw that there were good flocks of sheep and cattle. He could not resist the temptation. The weak ones were killed, but the good stock he decided to take back as booty. And for reasons that only Saul would know, maybe as an act of bravado, or gloating, or pride, he took the Amalekite king, Agag, captive too. Triumphantly, he trooped back with his booty. Up to the north of the country, Carmel, where he set up a monument to himself, then back east to Gilgal. A march of triumph and boasting.

But Samuel was in intimate communion with the Lord, who told Samuel that He regretted making Saul king. The whole episode was revealed to Samuel. He was distraught. All night long he cried out to the Lord. By morning he knew what to do.

He went to see Saul, who immediately put on a cheerful greeting and declared that he had done all that was asked of him. (There is a sequel to this story in the Book of Esther, which is recalled every year at the Jewish festival of Purim. The wicked Haman, who plotted the annihilation of the Jews, was an Agagite, so clearly, the commission Saul was given was not completed as instructed.) Then Samuel said, “What then is this bleating of the sheep in my ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear?”

The rest of the story you may read for yourself. It is quite graphic in its description of events, and part of the story contains a damning description of what had happened in Saul’s life. (1 Samuel 15: 17-19)

But we need to see the lesson here for ourselves today.

Most of us are delighted to receive the call of God on our lives. As in the parashah today, because of our gifting and experience, many are called upon to carry out specific work in God’s Name, which only they can do. It is also the case, that not everyone completes the task. ‘Things’ get in the way. In Saul’s case it was arrogance and pride. But there are many other pitfalls for the unwary.

In fact, we may be sure that all who come to faith in Yeshua are called to service. Many of us appear not to understand what that calling requires. Consequently there are tasks that are not completed. In simple terms it is our responsibility to seek the Lord on that. Dare I suggest that sometimes it may be as plain as ‘letting our light so shine before men that they may see our good works, and glorify our Father in Heaven”. The prophet Micah gave us another guide. “to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God”. King Saul was in no such doubt, but he failed the test. What a tragedy it would be, when called to account, thinking that we have completed our mission to hear the words “What then is this bleating of the sheep in my ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear?”

We will receive God’s blessing as we seek to do His will for us.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   23

Torah portion             Exodus 38 : 21  to 40 : 38  

Haftarah portion     1 Kings  7 : 51 to 8 : 21

Listen to the Prophets

“So all the work that King Solomon had done for the house of the Lord was finished ..” But it was empty.

Solomon had put his very best into the work, He had recruited about 200,000 workers to carry out the various tasks required. It had taken about 7 years. All that work brought prosperity … for a lot of people … for a long time. (He also spent another 13 years building a home for himself with a separate place for his Egyptian wife). And so the House of the Lord stood, dominant, resplendent, magnificent, and beautiful, in its place of honour in Jerusalem. The place chosen by God Himself.

Solomon called all the Elders of the people to witness the furnishing of the Temple. The priests, carrying the Ark of the Covenant, and Levites brought the other special furnishings, which had previously adorned the Tabernacle, into the new Temple. It was ready for service. But it was still empty.

The joy of the people was expressed in their sacrificial giving. Everything seemed in order. Sheep and Oxen, countless in number, all without blemish, being brought as an offering to the Lord in the place He Himself had chosen.

The Temple had an outer court, the court of the Gentiles. There was then a barrier (in Scripture called the ‘middle wall of partition’) beyond which only Jews were allowed. Within this space, and up a flight of twelve steps we find the most important building. Before it was the Court of Women, beyond which was the place where gifts and sacrifices were made to the Lord. Then came the Court of the Priests with its great Altar of Sacrifice and the Bronze Laver for the ceremonial washing of the Priests. Then a porch leading to The Holy Place. It contained the Altar of Incense, the Table of Showbread, the Seven Branched Golden Lampstand and a beautiful embroidered curtain. The curtain divided the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, the Holy of Holies, 9 metres x 9 metres and 18 metres high. Here rested the Ark of the Covenant containing the Tablets of stone given by God to Moses about 500 years earlier. What an impressive scene. Try to picture it if you can.

Then see the Priests bringing the Ark into the building, carefully placing the Ark inside the Holy of Holies, reverently backing out, through the curtain, through the Holy Place and into the Court of the Priests. Suddenly, without warning, the Shekinah of God filled the Place.

No longer empty, but filled with the very presence of YHWH ELOHIM.

The Priests were in amazement. They could no longer carry on with their tasks. The whole place was filled with the Glory of God.

What a picture.

The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 3:16 declares that ‘we are the temple of God’. In Ephesians 2 he says that we are ‘being built together for a dwelling place of God’. It may be extremely difficult to see a comparison between that magnificent structure which King Solomon built, and that which we see when we look into a mirror! But, other than shape, size and appearance, there is actually no difference when we look to the purpose for which each was made. On their own, both are empty. It is when the Shekinah of God comes and dwells within them that they become the same.

In our parashah, when the Shekinah of God came into the Temple, ‘the glory of the Lord filled the House’. There was an immediate difference. It showed. The whole character of the place was changed. Everyone could see it, sense it, and experience it. It was an overwhelming, overcoming experience for those who witnessed it.

So here is both the lesson, and the challenge for us. There is actually one significant difference between the Temple of Solomon we have reflected on in our parashah, and the Temple which we are as individuals. In the Temple which we are, the presence of God requires an invitation. In His infinite love towards us, God has given us a choice, a free will if you like. But when God is in that Temple, there will be a difference. His presence will be seen. Others will notice.

What then is the evidence of God’s presence?

Simply put, we enter a different kingdom. We voluntarily move from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of Light. We place ourselves under a different authority. As the Apostle Paul said to the Romans, “Sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law (i.e. the law of sin and death) but under grace.” When the power of sin is broken, we will speak, act, and live differently. If that is not in evidence in our lives, a spiritual check-up would appear to be in order.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   22

Torah portion             Exodus 35 : 1  to 38 : 20  

Haftarah portion     2 Kings  11 : 21 to 12 : 16

Listen to the Prophets

This week we look at some events in the life of King Joash, but we need a bit of background to appreciate what he did.

The infamous Jezebel had a daughter named Athaliah. She is described in 2 Chronicles 24:7 as ‘that wicked woman’, and so she was. During her time of influence she completely corrupted the Temple worship, even selling or donating the holy articles of the Temple to the Baals. When her son, king Ahaziah died, she then arranged to have all the royal heirs (her own grandchildren) killed off. As a result, she ruled in her son’s place. The only woman to be ruler of Judah. However, unbeknown to Athaliah, one of her daughters (or maybe step daughter), the wife of the High Priest Jehoiada managed to save the life of one of the grandchildren, the young, one year old baby Joash. She kept him hidden for about six years in the Temple accommodation. So our parashah begins with the succession to the throne of the seven year old Joash (also called Jehoash). He reigned in Judah for 40 years, and, in his very early years, under the Godly tutelage of Jehoiada.

Judah was ruled by 20 kings. Of those, only 8 are described in the Scriptures as ‘good’ kings. That is ‘they did what was right in the sight of the Lord’. Joash, as a young man, whilst under the instruction of the High Priest Jehoida, was a ‘good’ king.

However, due to the laxity of earlier generations of Israelites, and because earlier kings had not all been ‘good’, there were still many ‘high places’ of worship to Baal which still stood. They had not been destroyed as God had instructed in Deuteronomy 12: 1-4.

One consequence of their laxity was evidenced in the Temple.  Joash became aware that the magnificent Temple which Solomon had constructed, had not been properly maintained. It was in a poor state of repair. So Joash instituted a ‘building fund’ out of various gifts and taxes which the people payed into the Temple treasury. (We are not told the specific date, but it is fair to assume that this order was given whilst Joash was still very young and under the influence of Jehoida). Joash became king at age 7, and when he was 30 years old he discovered that the repair work had still not been carried out.

Evidently, the priests were not as honourable as we might have expected them to be. They had taken the money, but used it for their own purposes rather than the purpose for which it was provided to them.

(I sometimes wonder how the many televangelists and megachurch leaders today managed to become so obscenely wealthy!)

Anyway, the income flow to these priests was stopped. At the same time they refused to carry out the repair work. So Jehoida devised a scheme to put a large wooden box near the place where the people entered the Temple to present their offerings. A hole was cut in the top of the box to receive the money gifts, and it was periodically emptied by the king’s scribe and the High Priest and used to pay the artisans directly.

There is a most interesting comment, 2 Kings 12:15, which tells us that there was no requirement for an account from these workmen because they ‘dealt faithfully’.  The contrast appears to be that the priests originally tasked with the work had not ‘dealt faithfully’. Great testimony of these workmen.

So that is the story. What is our lesson?

Firstly, this whole episode arose because of the initial laxity by the Israelites in treating God’s instruction with contempt. The laxity at the beginning grew into habit and practice in succeeding generations. From time to time, God raised up men like Joash to call the people to account. Today, God is calling people within the gentile community of believers to remind us that His standards remain. He has not changed. His Torah has not changed. And one future day, that same Torah will be engraved on our heart so that it can no longer be broken, as it has been down through the ages. Have we developed habits and practices which are not biblical?

Secondly, God has not, and will not, give up on His people. His mercy and love cause Him to remain faithful to His covenant promises. Today we are privileged to participate in those promises through faith in Yeshua Ha’Mashiach. God is meticulously fulfilling His plan for mankind. He delights to use us in His service. But if we choose not to participate, or try to cheat, like the priests in our parashah did, God finds a way to get His work done without us. In that case, we are the losers.

There were ‘good’ kings and there were ‘bad’ kings. God used them all to further His plans. He still does today. We have a choice. Moses once asked the people “whoever is on the Lord’s side ... come to me”. The Levites answered the call and God used them in a very special task.

The call may still be heard. There is still much work to be accomplished.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   21

Torah portion             Exodus 30 : 11  to 34 : 35  

Haftarah portion     1 Kings  18 : 1 - 39

Listen to the Prophets

The Sunday School teacher’s favourite story this week! Well, one of them.

After the death of King Solomon, the nation was divided, the North known as Israel, capital Samaria, and the South known as Judah, capital Jerusalem. There were 19 kings of Israel after Solomon. The Bible describes the whole lot of them as “bad kings”. Not a ‘good’ king amongst them. They did not worship in the appointed place (Jerusalem) and neither did they follow the commandments of Torah. King Ahab was the seventh of these kings, and he reigned for 22 years. The Bible says he was the worst of all. He led the people in the worship of the Baals and the Ashtoreths. His wife was the infamous Jezebel.

Elijah lived at this time, and he had plenty of run-ins with both Jezebel and Ahab. Because Ahab was so deliberate in his wilful denial of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and because he was leading the people in his rebellious worship of ‘strange gods’, Elijah, at God’s direction, pronounced to Ahab that there would be no rain in the land until he, Elijah, commanded rain. Three years later, our parashah this week picks up the story, by which time, the land was in serious drought.

It is evident in the text that Ahab had searched high and low to find Elijah. Had he done so he would undoubtedly ended Elijah’s life. But God had now determined that it was time for the rain to return. So Elijah was told by God to present himself before Ahab and make the announcement that rain was coming. Of course there was much more to happen, but the end result would be the return of the rain.

There are at least a dozen men called Obadiah in our Scriptures. The one mentioned in our text is not the prophet. He was a faithful servant of the Lord who served in Ahab’s court. Evidently, when king Ahab was in his most severe wrath because of Elijah’s pronouncement about the rain, he thrashed about at anyone who might be identified with Elijah. Obadiah made himself responsible for hiding 100 of these men in caves, and he fed them too.

Elijah sought him out and asked him to inform Ahab that he was ready to meet with him. Poor Obadiah was petrified. He thought that Elijah might not show up, and Ahab would take vengeance on him for misinforming him that Elijah was there.

What follows is the famous encounter, on Mount Carmel, with the 400 prophets of Baal. The story is so very well known, most can recall the fine detail! Perhaps less remembered is what happened to Elijah after that amazing demonstration of the power of Almighty God. He warned Ahab that the rain was coming and that he should get in his chariot and get out of there whilst he could. Ahab went home to Jezreel. Elijah, in the meantime, outran the chariot and got there first.

Ahab’s wife, Jezebel, made curses and death threats against Elijah, so much so, that Elijah feared for his own life and ran away. Continue reading into the next chapter to get the end of the story!

Now the lessons for us in this passage.

Comparisons with Elijah would be presumptuous. He is a giant of a man before God. He is one of only two men in the Scriptures who did not see death as we see it. (Enoch was the other).His name is linked with Moses. It was Elijah, with Moses, who stood on the Mount of Transfiguration in Matthew 17. It is Elijah who will herald the return of the Lord Yeshua.  So with that said, we know that Elijah was a human being, just like we are. He made choices to follow the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and he did so with all his might. He committed himself to do whatever the Lord our God commanded. And, as our parashah today clearly indicates, it was not always easy. In fact, it was downright dangerous and frightening some of the time. But God used him. God blessed him. God took care of him.

Some words spoken to Solomon come to mind.

 "As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the LORD searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever.”                1 Chronicles 28:9

Few are called upon to acts of heroism and valour, as was Elijah, but there are many other instances of service used in the Lord’s Name. Dare I say it. The only thing the Lord seeks in us is that “loyal heart and willing mind”. He will do the rest according to His mighty power and His perfect plan.

Ask Him and He will show you what to do.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   20      

Torah portion            Exodus 27 : 20  to 30 : 10  

Haftarah portion     Ezekiel  43 : 10 - 27 

Listen to the Prophets

Of all the matters God entrusted to Ezekiel, this prophetic vision and announcement about the building of a Temple is one of the most significant. But it is also the cause of some debate amongst theologians, because it is about a Temple which, even in our day, has not been built. Ezekiel’s vision of this Temple is remarkable. He spends about one fifth of his prophetic pronouncements on this topic.

Ezekiel was in Babylonian captivity as he wrote this prophecy. Earlier, in Ezekiel 33, we were told that Ezekiel was made aware of the destruction of Jerusalem. This would surely have been devastating news to all those who were in captivity. It marked, for them a kind of finality to their life in the Land of promise. The Temple was the place of residence of YHWH Elohim. The Temple was the very centre of their society. It was the ‘rock’ on which their nationhood was built. And now it was gone.

In spite of the importance of their Temple, as a people they had not valued, as they should, the ordinances, precepts and commandments which had clearly been conveyed to them as a pre-requisite of occupation of the Land. So they found themselves languishing in Babylon. Tragic.

God’s instruction to Ezekiel, to describe the Temple to the people, was designed to make the Israelites ashamed that they had put such little value on it. Moreover, Ezekiel was told to describe the plan of the Temple in some detail. Minute detail about its design and the ordinances which were to take place within it, that they should never forget them.

But as we read these details, and compare them to the details of the Tabernacle furniture which God gave to Moses in Exodus 27, which Solomon would have used in the building of the Temple, now destroyed, we find subtle differences. It is in these differences that we see that what God is describing is a Temple which, as yet, has not been built.

So here is the lesson for us.

If the Temple which Ezekiel describes has not yet been built, that can mean only one of two things. The first is that Ezekiel got it wrong! That he spoke presumptuously. And if that is the case, the Scriptures tell us to disregard everything he says. Or in the language of the Bible “do not fear him”. The second meaning is that Ezekiel got it right. Which is what I believe. That being the case, it is awaiting the right time for its construction.

This provides a huge dilemma for those who teach that the covenant which God made with Moses is obsolete. Because with that, also go the ordinances which took place in the Temple, and which are described great in detail in this vision of Ezekiel. So, if Temple worship was relevant in Moses day and after it, up to about 40 years after the death and resurrection of Yeshua. And will be restored in the future, according to this prophecy of Ezekiel, we need to be cautious about our attitude to the Mosaic covenant.

Some will say “hold on a minute”. The Temple was partially restored when Zerubbabel, Ezra and Nehemiah returned to Israel about 40 years after this prophecy. Josephus Flavius also informs us that it was enlarged, on a grand scale, by Herod the Great, a few hundred years later still. All that is true. But Ezekiel also tells us (Ezekiel 36:24) that these events will take place when the Jews return from their exile “For I will take you from among the nations, gather you out of all countries, and bring you into your own land”.  That is not just from Babylon. And this event has only happened on any scale at all in the last 100 years, and is gathering pace in our day. So the Temple of which Ezekiel writes is still unbuilt. But it will be.

But the really good news is in the effect of this prophecy on the captives in Babylon. From utter despair at their plight in Babylon, God restores their hope. The descriptions are familiar to them. This is how they were taught to ‘draw near’ to YHWH Elohim. By offering sacrifices to Him. Ezekiel’s prophetic writing says that it is to be renewed, and everything here points to that being in the millennial reign of Yeshua.

There is an enormous challenge to the gentile believer in this parashah. Could it be possible that the sacrificial system is to be restored? Haven’t we been taught that the sacrificial death of Yeshua is final? Well, unlikely as it may seem, that is exactly what Ezekiel is saying.

At this point I need to make a declaration. I did not write this parashah. I am a reader of it, just like everyone else, and I ‘reflect’ upon it.

Finally, for me, the important message is this. Regardless of what I may think, God is God. He is the ultimate authority, and He will choose how He is to be worshipped and praised. My role is to be obedient to Him, in all the circumstances of the future.

On that happy note, we conclude this very challenging parashah.

Ponder, study, reflect, and obey. You will receive truth and blessing.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   19

Torah portion             Exodus 25 : 1  to 27 : 19  

Haftarah portion     1 Kings  5 : 12  to 6 : 13

Listen to the Prophets

King Solomon builds the temple of the Lord. That bald statement does not do justice to the effort made by the tens of thousands of people who were involved.

As our parashah opens, it looks as though King Solomon was the inventor of the ‘fly in fly out’ workforce we see in our large remote mining towns in Australia today. Ten thousand workers at a time, one month away in a foreign country, then two months back home. A staggering organizational task. Thirty thousand workers involved in that part of the programme.  Plus another eighty thousand quarrymen, and seventy thousand labourers. Amazing.

Those who have visited Jerusalem and walked through the excavated tunnel adjacent to the Kotel, and have seen the size of those foundation blocks of stone, (1 Kings 5:17) would agree that they are in themselves quite remarkable. Taking into account that they were quarried about three thousand years ago makes it even more so.

The parashah then describes some measurement detail of the building, another most important element of its design and construction. And it is not until we get to the very end of our reading that we find out the reason for this meticulous description.

It is repetitive of many other instances we have seen in our weekly ‘reflections’.                                                                                       

“Concerning this temple which you are building, if you walk in My statutes, execute My judgements, keep all My commandments, and walk in them, then I will perform My word with you, which I spoke to your father David. And I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will not forsake My people Israel.”                                                                  

It was to be the place where God would dwell amongst the people. A ready place of earthly identity for them. But we should also note that God is careful to declare the conditions attached to His statement.

Firstly, He undertakes to perform with Solomon, the covenant promises He made with his father David. It is a promise to continue that covenant. And secondly, it affirmed His covenants made with Abraham and Moses, to dwell among them and not forsake them.

 The condition:-“if you walk in My statutes, execute My judgements, keep all My commandments, and walk in them”.

Now to the extent that the Scriptures are given to us as an example and as an illumination of God’s ways, it is vital that we discern to what extent these conditions, which are repeated over and over again in the Hebrew Scriptures, from our God who declares Himself to be unchanging (Malachi 3:6), apply to us today.

Some may quickly remind us that our parashah was set in the days of the “old covenant’ and today we live under the “new covenant”. But as I read the terms of the “new covenant” (Jeremiah 31 and Hebrew 8) I cannot see any distinction between the two in terms of God’s Torah, other than the fact that the “new covenant” says that whereas the “old covenant’ was breakable, the “new covenant” is not. Read it carefully and honestly.

So the lesson for me in this parashah is this. God is clearly intent on bringing lasting blessing to His people. We are as much His people as the Israelites of old when we express our faith in the atoning death and resurrection of Yeshua. We are part of His kingdom. He is our King. The King has clearly laid out His instructions for holy and righteous living. His requirement is that we “walk in His ways”. So where is the problem?

Part of our problem lies in the very words used to describe the Scriptures as a ‘divided’ Old Testament, with connotations of antiquity and obsolescence, and New Testament, with connotations of modernity and freshness, even replacement.

If we see the whole Bible as the revealed Word of Almighty God, if we take literally the words of the Apostle John, that “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God”. If we see Yeshua, not only as carrying a wooden cross up the hill at Calvary, but also on the mountain communicating His word, His instructions, to Moses. Only then, will we see the ‘reasonable service’ (Romans 12:1) which God requires of us, as His followers, today.

Shabbat Shalom     

RS                                                                                                               

Haftarah Reflections   18

Torah portion             Exodus 21 : 1  to 24 : 18  

Haftarah portion     Jeremiah 34 : 8 – 22  and 33 : 25,26

Listen to the Prophets

The parashah this week concerns obedience to the commands of God. We should not be surprised. God had issues with the people regarding ‘obedience’ from the very moment they all, many years earlier, as a community, agreed to abide by His word. The details are recorded quite clearly in Exodus 24. It seems to be the never ending story of the Hebrew Scriptures. (In Nehemiah’s account, (Nehemiah 10:29) after some of the exiles returned to Jerusalem from Babylon, the whole community again ratified their commitment to ‘obedience’ to walk in the ways of the Lord. But that is getting ahead of ourselves) Worse than that however, with all the knowledge we have of our God and His ways, through His revelation to us in those Scriptures, nothing seems to have changed! We still appear to have difficulty with obedience. The problem in Jeremiah’s day related to the “shemittah”. The year of release. (Exodus 21, Leviticus 25 and Deuteronomy 15 for the serious student of the Scriptures!).

It was a kind of “blow hot blow cold” situation. It seems that the people had decided to observe “shemittah” (releasing their ‘slaves’ from bondage in the seventh year) but when they no longer had their bond servants to do their work, they reneged on the deal and took them back into bondage again. It would also appear that this was the final straw for the Lord, because very shortly after this the whole nation of Judah was taken captive by the Babylonians.

In his pronouncement, the Lord majored on the principle of ‘liberty’. This is a most important element in God’s economy. He had brought this people out of their bondage in Egypt, in order to make them into a nation that would walk in His ways. To set the captive free. Isaiah put it well.  “To heal the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives.” That is God’s heart for His people, and that includes us. He wants us to walk safely in His ways, to enjoy all the blessing He has for us, and to be free from the bondage of sin.

This is the thrust of what Jeremiah is told in verse 17 of our text. To paraphrase here, God is saying “I want you to enjoy liberty, My liberty, liberty for every one of you, including those who are in your service as slaves.”  But then He goes on to say “the liberty you have chosen is the liberty to NOT walk in My ways”, that is the choice they had made. “But this is where that kind of liberty will lead you. To the sword, to pestilence, to famine, because that is what you will find when you walk in your own ways amongst the nations to where you are going”.

All too often we are ready to blame God for everything that we feel might be going wrong in our lives. A common exclamation is “Why me?” There is no answer to that rhetorical question. But it may be worth exploring the extent to which we consciously ‘walk in His ways’. Then to ask ourselves this question; “Which liberty have we chosen?”  That is exactly what Jeremiah put to these Israelites in our parashah.

There are two more interesting observations to be made in this reading. The first is in relation to the Abrahamic Covenant in verses 18,19. The detail is found in Genesis 15, which says that a deep sleep fell upon Abraham. So technically, Abraham did not participate in that covenant. It was one sided so to speak, unconditional, God bound himself to keep that covenant. However, the text here indicates that by their willing agreement to the Mosaic Covenant, it was as though in so doing they also participated as equals with God in the cutting of the Abrahamic Covenant too.

The second observation is found in the verses in chapter 33 of our reading. This reference has a close affinity with the New Covenant. In Jeremiah 31, immediately following his announcement of the terms of the New Covenant, God specifies the time when Israel will no longer be a nation before Him

“Thus says the LORD, Who gives the sun for a light by day, the ordinances of the moon and the stars for a light by night, Who disturbs the sea, and its waves roar (The LORD of hosts is His name):

"If those ordinances depart from before Me, says the LORD, Then the seed of Israel shall also cease from being a nation before Me forever."   Jeremiah 31 : 35,36

Now God is saying, had He not made that covenant with day and night, and not appointed the ordinances with heaven and earth, then He would already have cast Israel away.

But He did make that covenant, so His mercy and love towards these chosen ones is irrevocable. Our God is a covenant keeping God.

What a mighty, gracious, loving God we serve. Blessed be His Name for ever,

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   17

Torah portion             Exodus 18 : 1  to 20 : 23  

Haftarah portion     Isaiah 6 : 1 to 7 : 6 and 9 : 6,7  

Listen to the Prophets

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!”

What a triumphant exclamation to begin our parashah this week. Why? Because Isaiah “saw the Lord, high and lifted up”.  An experience rare in our day I suggest.

Isaiah makes note of the timing of this word “In the year that King Uzziah died”, so it would be possible to spend a lot of time ‘reflecting’ on that king. In Judah, 19 kings ruled after Solomon’s death. Only 8 of them are described as ‘good kings’. Uzziah was one of them. He reigned for 52 years, starting when he was just 16 years old. He was successful. He brought prosperity to the land. He built cities, and fortified others to increase the security of the people.  BUT ... there’s always a ‘BUT’ isn’t there?

Uzziah overstepped the mark. He grew proud of his considerable achievements, and, it seems, he thought himself ‘above the law’. He went into the Temple to offer incense on the altar. A role specifically forbidden for anyone other than the priests, who, to their credit, stood against the king. albeit unsuccessfully. The dreadful outcome for Uzziah was that as he argued with Azariah, the Chief Priest, God instantly struck him with leprosy in the very presence of the priests in the Temple, a condition which remained with him until his death.(see 2 Chronicles 26)

Jewish tradition has it that Isaiah was a cousin to Uzziah. In which case they would have known each other well. Maybe it was Uzziah’s death that caused Isaiah to see the Lord “high and lifted up” confirming that God will not be mocked, mistrusted or treated with contempt, by anyone, even a king. It was certainly a defining moment in Isaiah’s life. It heralded the beginning of his highly regarded prophetic ministry.

We are provided detail of the amazing encounter Isaiah experienced. Paraphrasing this experience, Isaiah thought he was finished. He had seen the King, the Lord of hosts. He might have recalled the time when Moses, that great servant of the Lord had asked the Lord to ‘Please, show me Your glory’ , and then he would have remembered the Lord’s reply “you cannot see My face, for no man shall see Me, and live” (Exodus 33:20). But in this unique experience, God commissioned Isaiah to speak for Him to the people of Judah, who, as the first 5 chapters of Isaiah makes clear, were again in a dark place regarding their commitment to the covenant promises made by their forefathers. Promises of which they were all aware (Deuteronomy 31:9-13).  The Torah was publicly declared to all the people, by the priests, once every seven years (the ‘shemittah’ year) at the ‘mo’ed’ of the Feast of Booths (Tabernacles).

Furthermore, God instructed Isaiah to speak, not only to the people but also to kings. The fearful Rezin, king of Syria, was camped in Samaria, and moved to make war against the Judeans at Jerusalem. King Ahaz, Uzziah’s grandson, was terrified at the prospect. The Bible tells us that his heart, and the hearts of the people, fluttered like trees in the wind. But Isaiah met the king (just near what is the Mamilla Centre today), to encourage and strengthen him.

This whole story is interesting, but we need to find the lesson which is contained therein, by which we can benefit and learn.

As we stated at the commencement of this ‘reflection’, the experience Isaiah had of seeing the Lord was, and is, very rare. For that reason it is difficult to translate that encounter into modern day terms. But what we can take from it is the way that Isaiah dealt with his experience. So real was that experience, and his reaction, that God later entrusted Isaiah with the announcement of the coming of Messiah. A most accurate depiction of His coming.

Most, if not all the people who read this ‘reflection’, are doing so because there was a time when we had an encounter with God. The circumstance of each of us will be many and various. But every one of us came “through the same door”.

The first lesson then is to note that Isaiah took careful note of that which God spoke to him. And he acted upon it. It was not just an emotional, head knowledge experience. It was life changing. It was real. It struck at the very heart of his being, and became much more than mere verbal assent to what had happened.

I wonder how many of us, having had that encounter with the Lord which brought us to the place of acknowledging Yeshua as Messiah, and trusting Him as our Saviour, have experienced the inner drive to behave, act, think, speak, listen and generally conduct ourselves differently to the way we lived those things prior to our encounter. In simple terms, what differences are obvious in our life and lifestyle? What differences do our friends and family see?

Please understand, that as I ‘reflect’ on the Scriptures, I receive a challenge, every time, without fail. In love I pass on my challenges for your ‘reflection’.

You will be blessed as you ponder these things.         

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   16

Torah portion             Exodus 13 : 17  to 17 : 16  

Haftarah portion     Judges 4 : 4 to 5 : 31  

Listen to the Prophets

Scholars have determined that Israel was ‘governed’ by 15 Judges over a period of approximately 400 years after the death of Joshua. God gave them this succession of righteous Judges, with whom they could consult whenever they required help and guidance, mainly in the settling of disputes. Deborah was the fourth such Judge, and she lived (and held court, as it were) in the territory of Ephraim.

Our parashah this week is set in a time almost 200 years after Joshua had led the children of Israel into the land of promise. The eleven tribes of Israel with a land allotment were still in the ‘settling’ phase. Each of them trying to get on with their lives as separate ‘provinces’, but they varied in the degree to which they were Torah observant (i.e. keeping their covenant), and as a result were still being harassed by the people local to them, amongst whom they lived.

In our text, the cruel Canaanite king Jabin, and his equally cruel army commander, Sisera, were causing significant angst for the tribes in the northern part of the territory. Such was the might of his army that the Israelites of the north were in dread of him. But Deborah had received word from the Lord that He would deliver Sisera and his vast well equipped army into their hands. So she called Barak, from the tribe of Naphtali, to prepare him to lead the fight against Sisera. Note that God’s instruction was that Barak’s army should consist of just 10,000 men. (Josephus Flavius informs us that Sisera’s army contained 300,000 foot soldiers as well as 10,000 horsemen and 3,000 chariots).  Barak declared that he would only raise an army to fight Sisera if Deborah would agree to go with him. Deborah, quite sure of the Lord’s deliverance, agreed to go with Barak, but told him that there would be no glory for him in the battle, that honour would go to a woman. Barak thought she meant herself, but of course that was not the case.

We remind ourselves of God’s injunction in Zechariah 4:6 “Not by might, nor by power, but by My spirit, says the Lord”. We see it in action here, and somewhat later we see it in relation to the small army Gideon was told to assemble.

The battle itself is quickly disposed of in our Hebrew Bible text. Josephus is much more descriptive. In a ‘nutshell’, Barak and Deborah, with their army of 10,000, occupied the high ground on Mt. Tabor, Sisera and his chariots were on the lowland of Plain of Esdrealon (Meggido). The Lord caused a great storm to arise, blowing from the east, directly into the faces of Sisera’s army (and at the backs of the Israelites of course). There was drenching rain. The chariots were bogged in the softened ground, useless. The archers couldn’t use their bows in the headwind, the foot soldiers could not wield their swords, and all the disadvantages which Sisera experienced were huge advantages for Barak. It is a wonderful story of deliverance. The aftermath of which was that the northern tribes enjoyed 40 years of peace after Sisera’s army was routed.

Now we need to see the message for ourselves in this parashah.

Perhaps lessons may be found in the song, composed by Deborah, and sang by both Deborah and Barak at the end of the battle. The people had assembled in obedience. A relatively small army, outnumbered 30 to 1, but with the promise of God on their side.

“When leaders lead in Israel” the song starts, “when the people willingly offer themselves, Bless the Lord”. We are exhorted to pray for the peace of Jerusalem (read Israel). Many of us ask the Lord to preserve the lives of those young men and women of the IDF today, who defend the nation against the vast armies of Islam (and others) who are arraigned against them.

The victory is assured. The Scriptures have prophesied the end of the story. It will see the return of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach. To use the analogy of our parashah this week, the Jabin’s and the Sisera’s of today will be completely routed, then there will be peace. Not for 40 years as in our parashah, but for a thousand years in the millennial kingdom to come.

Deborah’s song tells of the difficulties that were encountered in the time leading up to the battle. It is quite graphic in its description of the parts played by the characters involved. And it does not take too much imagination to relate those times of difficulty with the opposition facing little Israel in today’s world.

The song ends:-

“Thus let all Your enemies perish, O Lord! But let those who love Him be like the sun when it comes out in full strength”

This parashah is descriptive of the Lord speaking to His servant Deborah. It speaks of the clarity with which Deborah received that word of the Lord. And it speaks of the obedience of Deborah in “doing” the word.

Too often, I suggest, when the Lord speaks, He does not find the willing listener. But when He does, there follows abundant blessing and peace.

Join me in asking the Lord to speak clearly in our time.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   15  

Torah portion             Exodus 10 : 1  to 13 : 16  

Haftarah portion     Jeremiah 46 : 13 to 28  

Listen to the Prophets

In last week’s Haftarah parashah, we heard from the prophet Ezekiel about the Lord rewarding the king of Babylon because he had used his army to fight against the king of Tyre, who had offended the Lord in relation to Jerusalem.

Jeremiah takes up the same theme this week. But the thrust of Jeremiah’s prophecy was directly to the Pharaoh of Egypt. He notes that Egypt was haughty, proud, and prosperous. Egypt was, at that time, a fertile land producing abundant crops of grain. In Joseph’s time, the ‘years of plenty’ had produced enough grain to satisfy not only the Egyptians, but also the surrounding nations with grain for the next seven years of drought. Joseph wisely built large grain vaults to store the grain in preparation for the debilitating drought God had shown Pharaoh in a dream.

But there was also another issue God had to deal with. There had been a remnant of the people who were not in captivity in Babylon (read the story in Jeremiah 42), who had asked Jeremiah to petition the Lord on their behalf, vowing that whatever the Lord said through Jeremiah, they would faithfully follow. When that word came they did the exact opposite of what God had declared, and chose instead to go to live in Egypt. This was an absolute violation of God’s promise to them of safety in their own land.

So, both Ezekiel and Jeremiah, prophesied the downfall of Egypt at the hands of the Babylonians, And because this remnant of Israelites had chosen to disobey the voice of God in going down to Egypt, the prophecy of Jeremiah regarding their own plight was assured by their presence there.

There is a lesson for us right here.

God had given these Israelites (His own people, called by His Name) a clear instruction through the medium of His respected prophet Jeremiah, declaring both the benefit of their obedience to His word, and the disastrous consequence of disobedience. There are those who might say “What a dreadful thing God has done to these people”. The truth is exactly the opposite. What a dreadful thing these Israelites did in not heeding God’s solemn warning. It is worthy of our attention lest we find ourselves doing exactly the same thing, albeit in very different situations.

The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is always true to His word. He is a God of justice and a God of righteousness. He has spelled out clearly for us, in His word, the path we should tread before Him. The benefits of obedience are clearly spelled out, and the consequences of disobedience are there for us to see also.

In our day, we are seeing, not only individuals and groups, but whole nations, metaphorically ‘thumbing their nose’ at God. Even worse, there are some church denominations doing the same, especially in regard to Israel. When God spoke the promise of blessings and curses to Abraham in Genesis 12;3, He was deadly serious. It is worthy of note, yet again, that the words which are both translated ‘curse’ in English, are two different words in Hebrew, the language in which the Hebrew Scriptures were written. The first is “a’rar” meaning bitterly curse. The second “qalal” means to treat lightly, or to treat with contempt. How is it possible for whole Christian denominations to be so misled?

But in our parashah we end with on a note of comfort for Israel. The last two verses have two promises and a warning within them. The first promise is that Israel will not suffer the same devastating defeat as the Egyptians. The second is that their lives will be spared. However, because of their disobedient breaking of the first covenant made with Moses, and their utter contempt for the word delivered to them by Jeremiah, they would be punished by their actions. Because we have the record of history we are able to see exactly what happened to Israel some hundreds of years later, and for the same reasons. They would again be sent from the land, and on that occasion for almost two thousand years. We are only seeing, in our lifetime, that God is again calling them back to the Land again. This time it will be a lasting return, because this return is just one of the signs that God is preparing to send Yeshua back again to rule and reign from Jerusalem.

These prophets of old still speak today don’t they?

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   14    

Torah portion             Exodus 6 : 2  to 9 : 35  

Haftarah portion     Ezekiel 28 : 25  to  29 : 21  

Listen to the Prophets

The prophet Ezekiel was with the first group of people to be taken captive by the Babylonians, about eleven years before the fall of Jerusalem. He was called by God to the role and ministry as a prophet whilst in captivity.

The parashah today begins with the prophetic promise of return of the scattered Israelites to the Land. A prophecy which was partly fulfilled about 50 years later when Zerubbabel led the captives back to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. A closer look also suggests that the prophecy, not completely fulfilled at that time, would necessitate a further regathering to fulfil the prophecy completely. I believe that regathering is taking place today, before our eyes. Ezekiel has much more to say on this matter later in his prophetic writings. (Ezekiel 34-36).

In our reading today we have yet another occasion where God confirms the covenant promise made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, regarding the provision of a Land wherein they could dwell in prosperous safety. That covenant promise is unconditional. However, the covenant regarding the occupation of the Land, made with Moses hundreds of years later, specified the condition necessary for that occupation, namely, to live in a (Torah obedient) manner, very differently from the behaviour of  Nations around them, in order that they should be a light to those Nations. A covenant which they broke, and suffered the consequential dispersion, which Ezekiel saw at first hand, (which later occasioned the first partial fulfilment of the prophecy) and later yet, following their rejection of the Messiah of God, a much longer exile, which lasted from 135 C.E., following the Bar Kochba uprising against the Romans,, to the late 19th century, with the Theodore Hertzl convened Zionist Council in Basle, Switzerland. (occasioning the present regathering in completion of the prophecy)

Then Ezekiel prophesied coming calamity for Egypt, the well-known enemy of Israel, and a gift for the king of Babylon. At this time however, (believed to have been written about the same time as the fall of Jerusalem,) Egypt was in ascendancy, and Babylon was sparring with Judea.

The prophet Jeremiah (44:30) also has a word for these Nations. He tells us that the Pharaoh of Egypt was Hophra, and that Nebuchadnezzar would be Egypt’s conqueror.  Extra-Biblical records suggest that about 18 years after this prophetic announcement, Egypt was indeed conquered by the Babylonians, and when the Babylonians fell to the Persians about 40 years after that, they then facilitated the return of the captured Egyptians.

It is of some note that Ezekiel is so precise in the timing of God’s revelation to him. He recalls the year, the month and the day that God visited him with the message. It is similar today for those who have experienced the call of God on their lives. The event seems to burn in the memory, so important a visitation from God is for many people.

Whilst God orders Ezekiel to “speak” against Hophra, the Pharaoh of Egypt, it is unlikely that he spoke face to face. To that extent then, there would appear to be significance in the spoken proclamation of the word of the Lord. It is more than just have a ‘feeling’ or even a ‘vision’ of what God expects of us. There was physical expression to be made, and that probably in the presence of others, even though this is not specifically noted in the text.

When we pray, it can be the silent words of our mind. A quiet time before the Lord. But, I believe that an audible expression of our petition before the Lord provides a more meaningful conversation with Him. An open Bible and an open mind also is helpful in ‘hearing’ from God during our times of prayer.

The prophet concludes this reading with a word to Babylon. Look closely at Ezekiel 29:19,20. Do those words seem strange to you? Our Bible tells us that God was displeased with Tyre’s antagonism towards Jerusalem and promised that many nations would come against her. (Ezekiel 26) It was king Nebuchadnezzar who fought long and hard against Tyre, but with little material reward. God arranged that the reward would come in the fall of Egypt. And so it was.

There are many lessons for us today in this most interesting account of these prophetic pronouncements of Ezekiel. God continues to work out His purposes in the acts of men. “The fool has said in his heart ‘there is no God’ (Psalms 14 and 51). And still God uses the haughty, the proud, the boastful, and the disbelieving host, to further His eternal plan for man. But never without warning.

Ezekiel sounded the warning for the people of his day. TWICE, in his writings, Ezekiel told us what our responsibility is as “watchmen” for the Kingdom of God. Read it for yourselves in Ezekiel 3 and 33.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   13  

Torah portion            Exodus 1 : 1  to 6 : 1  

Haftarah portion     Isaiah 27 : 6  to  28 : 13  and 29 : 22,23

Listen to the Prophets

Isaiah exercised an amazing prophetic ministry of warning, judgement, and promise of salvation to both the Northern and Southern kingdoms of Israel and Judah. He was a Jerusalemite by birth, which makes him a Judean, but our Haftarah parashah today finds him bringing a warning and judgement message to the Israelites of the Northern kingdom.

I am comforted in the knowledge that commentators generally have found difficulty in coming to grips with the language of this parashah. Clearly, Isaiah is burdened with the situation in which he could see the Israelites moving further away from their covenant promises, into idolatry and disregard for the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, even though they paid some kind of lip service to the principle.

To that extent, we might have a lesson for today, as we see a ‘church age’ which embraces popular secular themes in an effort to increase attendance and membership. It has been observed by some, perhaps unfairly, that many churches today are little more than religious social clubs. The concept of adherence to God’s instruction for righteous living is seen as obsolete. Outdated in the world of today. Well, that, in effect, is what Isaiah saw in his day too.

Isaiah lived at a time when he saw the dispersion of the Northern tribes of Israel at the hand of the Assyrians. First, the king Tiglath-Pileser in the 730’s b.c.e., then king Sargon in 722 b.c.e., and finally king Shalamanezer 5th, completed the rout of Israel. An event which is known today as ‘the lost tribes of Israel’, because they have not subsequently been identified as a group.

(An interesting aside here. Look at Isaiah 9:10. Arrogant words spoken by the people of the northern kingdom of Israel when being attacked by the Assyrians. They are exact words used by the President of the U.S. congress at the time of the infamous destruction of the World Trade Centre in New York in 2001. It was this expression that caused Messianic Rabbi Jonathan Kahn to write his epic book “The Harbinger”, which warns America about its clear move away from the intent and purpose of America’s founding fathers when the land was settled in 1620).

There is another most interesting element about this prophecy of Isaiah. It has more than one interpretation. Firstly, of course, it has relevance to the immediacy of the situation facing the Northern kingdom of Israel. But it also has application to other events which took place about 130 years later in regard to Judea, and of even more significance is that the prophecy has relevance to our times today, and onwards into the future. It is, in part, this multi-faceted interpretation of Isaiah’s words that have caused some to have difficulty with it.

From verse 12, we have a descriptive promise of the regathering of Israel, to boundaries which are as yet unaccomplished. But in verse 13, there is the description of both the immediacy of calamity which befell them, and the futuristic events of the time when all Israel will be saved.

The prophetic descriptions in chapter 28 continue in the same vein. The graphic picture painted in the words about the uncleanness of the dining table are symptomatic of the state of unfitness of the Israelites to have fellowship with the Lord because of their wanton disregard of God’s word and His ways.

It is quite unfashionable to see God as harsh, and some might interpret this description as such. But we need always to remember that what some might see as God’s harshness, is in fact the natural result of man’s wanton decision to disregard the many warnings included in the Bible about the very justice of God, who cannot embrace sin. Idolatry is sin against a Holy God and a total disregard of His word.

It seems that towards the end of our parashah in Chapter 28 God is saying that just as their fall was “little by little, precept upon precept and line upon line” so will be their restoration in due time. There are no real words of comfort spoken by the prophet here, which is why, probably, the Rabbi’s included the words from Chapter 29 to conclude the readings. They are the only words of comfort to be found in the long recitation of dire warnings here.

“Therefore thus says the LORD, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob; ‘Jacob shall not now be ashamed, nor shall his face now grow pale; but when he sees his children, the work of My hands, in his midst, they will hallow My name, and hallow the Holy One of Jacob, and fear the God of Israel.’”

If there are lessons for us today in this passage it is because we worship a God who does not change. The very things which Isaiah condemned in his prophetic utterances to these people, he would condemn in us today. God expects all who are His to walk in His ways. He did then, and He does now.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

​Haftarah Reflections   12       

Torah portion             Genesis 47 : 28  – 50 : 26

Haftarah portion     1 Kings 2 : 1 - 12

Listen to the Prophets

There is always some link between the Torah parashah each week with the corresponding Haftarah parashah, The Torah reading has the account of Jacob’s death, and the promises he extracted from his sons regarding where he should be buried. The Haftarah has the account of the final days of King David’s life, and some instructions he gave to his son Solomon.

David had reigned over Israel (a kingdom united under his leadership) for a period of 40 years. He had dominated his earthly enemies, and the nation knew prosperity and peace as a result. His presumptuous son Adonijah, had been thwarted in his attempt to assume the throne, and Solomon was now the King. David has some very good advice to pass on to the newly crowned King Solomon.

“… be strong, therefore, and prove yourself a man. And keep the charge of the Lord your God: to walk in His ways, to keep His statutes, His commandments, His judgements, and His testimonies, as it is written in the Torah of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn; that the Lord may fulfil His word which He spoke concerning me…”

I find it very interesting that in almost every ‘reflection’ of both the Torah and the Haftarah, there seems to be an exhortation to be faithful to the covenant God made with Moses. We might say it was easy for King David, who was, after all, described as “a man after God’s own heart” (see 1 Samuel 13:14). David expressed himself in ways many could not, as in Psalm 119, in which he extensively praises the ‘Torah’ of the Lord and his great love for it. In most of our English Bibles, the word used is “law”. We know that very few of us have much love for the “law”, do we? We tolerate the law, and most of the time obey the law, but we don’t generally express love for the law. So evidently, the “law” for which David expressed his love was very different.

Many times we have defined the “law” as God’s instructions for righteous living, but it would also be true to define it simply as “the Word of God”. David’s exhortation to Solomon was to ‘walk in His ways, to keep His statutes, His commandments, His judgements, and His testimonies’. David clearly saw that as the way of safety, of protection, of success, and of knowing God’s favour, in this fatherly advice.

And yet, we are taught in many of our churches that the Torah of Moses is obsolete, finished, dead, out of date, never to return. How wrong that teaching is! And all because it is referred to as ‘the Old Covenant’. But when we look closely at “the New Covenant”, what do we find? The same Torah, ( instructions, word of God), ‘put in their minds, and inscribed on their hearts’. Yes, the SAME Torah. (if you are not sure about this, read Jeremiah 31: 31 -34, and Hebrews 8: 7 -12).  But this time, a covenant which is unbreakable.

We should now try to see this in a modern context. Think of the people you know, or whom you are acquainted with. People you most admire or respect because of their perceived Godly living. Almost inevitably they will be people who are not only well versed in the Scriptures, but they will be people you consider to be wise, reliable, gracious and trustworthy. They are people you can turn to when difficulties arise, when disputes surface, when grief visits. But they are also pretty thin on the ground aren’t they?

God is constantly seeking a people who will “walk in His ways, keep His statutes, His commandments, His judgements, and His testimonies” even today. But that requires a people who will read His word, who will study the Scriptures, who will talk with Him and who will be obedient to His voice. God is able to use anyone who makes himself/herself available in His service, and who is obedient to the Word.

The advice David gave to Solomon came with a promise. It was a conditional promise, and we all need to take note of the conditions which are discussed above. The promise was “that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn; that the Lord may fulfil His word to you”.

The Lord bless you as you read this Haftarah parashah and as you ask Him to reveal His will for you, as He did for Solomon.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   11

Torah portion            Genesis 44 : 18  – 47 : 27

Haftarah portion     Ezekiel  37 : 15  - 28

Listen to the Prophets

Ezekiel was a member of a priestly family, and as such he was quite familiar with Levitical customs and laws, as well as having an intimate knowledge of Mosaic Law. He was exiled to Babylon in 597 B.C.E., about 11 years prior to Jerusalem falling into the hands of Nebuchadnezzar. Of all the writing prophets, Ezekiel is the most precise regarding the timing of his writings. Thirteen times, he gives us date references. His writings cover a period of about 22 years, indicating a very close walk with God.

In our parashah today, we come to a message of encouragement to the exiles, prophesying that the Lord would take them back to the Land of Promise, and moreover, re-unite the Nation again under one king.

Ezekiel 37 is most known for its “valley of dry bones” pronouncement. What we have before us today follows that, and is most exciting because it also relates to events we see happening in our day, as well as events still in the future.

The prophet is instructed to take two sticks, write inscriptions on each, one for Judah (the people in exile in Babylon at that time) and one for Israel (the people of the Northern Kingdom who were taken captive 136 years earlier).  Then he was told to join those sticks and hold them in his hand so that people could see only one stick. The explanation of this is contained in verses 21 and 22. It is a promise of God to these people, that they would return to their own land, be re-united with their ‘cousins’ from the Northern Kingdom, would settle in that land under one king, and never be divided into two kingdoms ever again.

It was 40 years before these people saw the first evidence of fulfilment of this prophecy. And now, about 2,500 years on, we are yet to see its complete fulfilment, but we clearly see it coming as more and more Jewish people are making Aliyah to Israel from every corner of the globe. This is consistent with other prophetic pronouncements made by Ezekiel in chapters 34 and 36.

It is often the case in Biblical prophecy, that there are multiple layers of fulfilment. The first layer was the initial return under the leadership of Zerubbabel, when restoration building work commenced, and the main cause of their exile, the neglect of Torah, was rectified and the people again began to learn and to observe the principles of righteous living together.

But there is much more for us to learn and be excited about in this parashah. It is quite obvious that we are now entering another layer of fulfilment of this prophecy. The people are returning to the land in unprecedented numbers. Over 7 million Jews now live in the territories previously divided as Israel and Judea. Since 1948 there has been only Israel, BUT there is not yet ONE KING over them. Our parashah says that king will be David. However, from other prophetic promises we know that the everlasting kingdom (2 Samuel 7: 8-16) will be ruled by a successor of the House of David. That will be King Yeshua.

Please read carefully the words in verses 24 to 28. The promises contained here are as yet unfulfilled. There is a strong reference here to the New Covenant which God promised through the prophet Jeremiah. Let’s look closely at the text. (Remember the two sticks made one?)

“They shall walk in My judgements and observe My statutes, and do them. A covenant of peace. An everlasting covenant. My sanctuary set in their midst forevermore. I will be their God. They shall be My people. The nations will know that I, the Lord, sanctify Israel when My sanctuary is in their midst forevermore.”   We see this today only in part, and a small part at that.

Let’s now look at the terms of the New Covenant in Jeremiah 31: 31 – 34 “Made with the house of Israel and the house of Judah. (two sticks made into one) I will put My Torah in their minds. I will write My Torah on their hearts. I will be their God. They shall be My people. They shall ALL know Me. I will forgive their iniquity. Their sin I will remember no more”.  This is a covenant that is people proof!! It cannot be broken.

Such is the foresight that God gave to Ezekiel. Not only the events which took place in the first return to the land, but those taking place today, and those still to come. What a mighty prophet of God Ezekiel is shown to be. On a very personal note, I have firsthand experience of hearing the direct word of God to me in the reading of Ezekiel. It changed my life. The reading of this prophetic book may be a blessing in your life too.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   10

Torah portion            Genesis 41 : 1  – 44 : 17

Haftarah portion     Zechariah 2: 10 to 4: 7

*This Haftarah parashah replaces the usual reading (1 Kings 3:15 to 4:1) because it is Shabbat of Hannukah this year (2016)

Listen to the Prophets

"Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion! For behold, I am coming and I will dwell in your midst," says the LORD. “Many nations shall be joined to the LORD in that day, and they shall become My people. And I will dwell in your midst. Then you will know that the LORD of hosts has sent Me to you. And the LORD will take possession of Judah as His inheritance in the Holy Land, and will again choose Jerusalem.”

So begins our Haftarah parashah for today. A resounding statement of encouragement. And that is what the prophecy of Zechariah is about. Some 50,000 Israelites had returned from Babylon under the leadership of Zerubbabel. They had commenced rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and restoring what they could of Solomon’s Temple. But there was opposition and the work had been delayed. So the Lord raised up Haggai, Zechariah and Ezekiel at that time, all with prophecies of encouragement, with the message that the work of rebuilding the Temple was important because it had a future as the centre of worship of the Messiah.

But there is more than that, because Zechariah had a vision that took him beyond the work of Zerubbabel, and into a time still future to us today. In fact, Zechariah prophesies into the future global battle for Jerusalem and the return of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach to the Mount of Olives.

However, in our parashah this week, the prophetic words of Zechariah came to him by means of a vision. In that vision he saw a man, Joshua the High Priest, whom, it was thought was probably one of the 4,300 or so priests who had returned from Babylon. The prophet Malachi throws some light onto this scene (Malachi 2:1-9). Whether his garments were literally ‘filthy’, or metaphorically ‘filthy’ is not at issue. We know the difference. But what is important is that the Lord brought about a miraculous change in his appearance and in his condition. Isaiah tells us that “we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags”.

But the Priests were in a special position. They were responsible for teaching the people regarding the Torah. The Apostle Ya’akov (James) had a word about the responsibility of “teachers” didn’t he? He said “Let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment”.   But in Zechariah’s vision he was able to see that the love and mercy of Almighty God was able to remove all the guilty stains and reclothe them, even the Priests, in garments white as snow. Then this amazing promise “If you will walk in My ways, and if you will keep My command, then you shall also judge My house”.

Remember, the people were already engaged in building “the House”. And “the House” could not function without the Priests, and the Priests could not function in “the House” unless they were ‘clean’. It is true that the ‘cleanness’ here was ritual cleanness, but inner cleanness comes from living righteously in accord with God’s commands. As God says many times “Be ye holy as I am holy”, set apart, different, living My way. That is inner cleanness.

Then, in Zechariah’s vision, he hears the Lord telling Joshua the High Priest about the coming Messiah, “My servant the BRANCH”. And the prophecy that “will remove the iniquity of that land in one day”. I believe the Apostle Paul makes reference to this day in Romans 11:26 in which he says “all Israel will be saved”. It is also a direct reference to the coming “New Covenant” to be made with "the house of Israel and the house of Judah” see Jeremiah 31:34. A covenant sealed with the precious blood of Yeshua.

What power is there that can bring this about?. Israel in Yeshua’s day, the same as today, was and is, looking for a man who will come and deliver them from their enemies. A human being saviour. A strong deliverer. But what the Lord showed Zechariah was quite different. He saw two olive trees standing by the lampstand of solid gold. Zechariah 4:14 tells us who these olive trees are. They provide the oil to keep the lamp alight. And they are two anointed ones, standing beside the Lord of the whole earth.  Who do you think they could be?

And what or who is going to make this happen?  “Not by might (human endeavour) nor by power (strong men), but by My Spirit says the LORD of Hosts”

“O LORD, our LORD, how excellent is Your Name in all the earth.” Ps 8:1

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   9

Torah portion            Genesis 37 : 1  – 40 : 23

Haftarah portion     Amos 2 : 2 – 3 : 8

Listen to the Prophets

The Lord called Amos, a sheep herder and a tender of sycamores, from Tekoa, a small village just south west of Bethlehem, to take a strong message of warning to the people of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Specifically to a ‘high place’ of worship at Bethel, where King Jereboam 1 had set up one of the golden calves (the other in Dan), so that the people no longer went up to Jerusalem for the mo’edim of the Lord.

This prophet of the Lord had “a way with words”. He was a skilful and persuasive orator. At this time, King Jereboam 2 was leading the nation. Assyria had subdued their closest enemy Syria, which resulted in a time of unusual peacefulness for them, with resultant prosperity. Life seemed good, and it was, BUT the people were far from God and immersed in syncretism and idolatry. Hence the call of God upon Amos.

It was a time of one of the festivals which they kept, because there was a large crowd gathered at the worship centre in Bethel. As Amos stood to speak, he did so with authority. Six times, the persuasive Amos reminded the people of the hostile neighbours who surrounded them, and the judgement which God had in store because of their various transgressions. One can imagine the enthusiastic agreement of the crowd as Amos spoke of God’s displeasure with these hostile neighbours. Aram, Philistia, Edom, Phoenicia, Ammon and Moab. Each one in turn. His rhetoric was the same for all.  “Thus says the Lord, for three transgressions of ‘xxxx’ and for four, I will not revoke its punishment”. Can you hear their cheers?  Then the stunned silence.

His seventh proclamation was against Judah, the Southern Kingdom. The eighth against themselves. For each of the proclamations against their hostile neighbours, Amos managed one or two ‘transgressions’. Against Judah the transgression was just one (but a very big one!)  Then when he turned his words against Israel, there were SEVEN transgressions listed in detail. (See verses 6 to 8).  Each of these transgressions were indicative of an uncaring and avaricious society. They are details of specific violation of God’s instruction for righteous living (Torah).

A casual read of this parashah may be a bit ‘ho hum’. We might ask the question here “So what is the big deal here?”(so to speak). The lesson for us, dear friends, is in the detail.

We have the benefit of hindsight here. The prophecy against Judah was that “they have despised the Torah of the Lord, and have not kept His commandments”. The judgement was “I will send a fire upon Judah, and it shall devour the palaces of Jerusalem”. And that is precisely what occurred about 136 years later. Precisely, exactly, to the letter.

The prophecy against Israel was spelled out in more detail. The prophet spoke (see Amos 3:1–8) in clear language, using every day metaphors, about God’s intent for this nation. He ended by saying “Surely the Lord God does nothing, unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets. A lion has roared! Who will not fear? The Lord God has spoken! Who can but prophesy?” The judgement of the Lord on this Nation of Israel came less than 30 years later. They were taken Captive by the Assyrians, and are now, even today, often referred to as “The Ten Lost Tribes”.

And that is the lesson for us today.

God has spoken through His prophets. The language is clear, the message is unambiguous. Let us hear from the greatest prophet we know, Yeshua Ha’Mashiach. Prophet during His time on earth, now the Great High Priest before His father in Heaven, soon to be King of Kings. See John 14:6.        

“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments”  “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love,”  John 15:10

The proclamation of Amos against both Judah and Israel was that they did not “keep My commandments”, none of which have ever been cancelled or nullified !!!!

I respectfully suggest that as we review and ‘reflect’ upon this prophecy of Amos, we might consider what the Lord our God is saying to us in these words. Do we really “love Him?” are we “abiding in His love?”  The Lord will bless you as you give heed to His word. It is often quite personal.                              

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   8

Torah portion            Genesis 32 : 4  – 36 : 43

Haftarah portion     Obadiah 1 : 1 - 21

Listen to the Prophets

Somewhere in our past, Biblical Prophets were designated the description of Major and Minor. That seems a quite arrogant way of classification to me, because a prophet of God is, well, a prophet of God. His message is God given, important, and without classification except in respect of the people to whom the prophecy is directed. In every case however, we can find a message for today in each prophetic book in our Bibles. It is particularly true of our haftarah parashah today.

Obadiah (Servant of God) is something of a ‘mystery man’. The Bible tells us nothing about his person, or even when his prophecy was written, but there are some clues available in the text. It is most commonly thought that Obadiah wrote, in condemnation of Edom, at the time of the Babylonian exile, about the year 586 B.C.E.. It is very likely, however that the Edomites never got to read the prophecy, in which case it was written more as an encouragement to the Israelites.

The Edomites were first cousins of the Israelites. A relationship stemming from the twin brothers born to Isaac and Rebecca. The animosity between the brothers, Jacob and Esau is well known. (We are told in Genesis 36 : 8 that “Esau dwelt in Mount Seir. Esau is Edom”.)  That animosity persisted for many centuries. It persists today.

The history is not difficult to trace, but it came to something of a head when the Edomites denied Moses passage though their territory during the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites. And evidently, it was rampant again, almost 1000 years later, during the exilic dispersion under the cruel hand of King Nebuchadnezzar.

Extra-biblical writings of people like Josephus Flavius confirm the hateful relationship of the Edomites towards the Israelites.

Obadiah commences by describing the lofty abode of the people of Edom. They evidently lived well and were well fortified against aggressors, partly because they lived above the plains, and probably considered themselves safe and impregnable. He continues by describing the ways in which the Israelites, in their great persecution and distress, were further harassed and abused by the Edomites, who, because of their close kinship with them, should have provided comfort and support.

It is at this point that we should consider the lessons of this prophecy which apply to us today.

We are all aware of the increasing levels of abuse, violation and hatred being aimed at ISRAEL today. In spite of this, or perhaps because of it, God is using the circumstances to return the Jewish people back to their Land of Promise.

Is it too hard that I suggest that today’s “Edomites” are alive and well in the world, and are seeking to heap more pain on Israel than they already bear. Sadly, many of those “Edomites” (cousins in the faith so to speak) are in positions of influence in our churches. Because they are ‘believers’, they consider themselves ‘safe and impregnable’ from the wrath of God. Take VERY careful note of the word of the Lord spoken by the Prophet to the Edomites :-

“You should not have stood at the crossroads to cut off those among them who escaped; nor should you have delivered up those among them who remained in the day of distress. For the day of the LORD upon all the nations is near; as you have done, it shall be done to you; your reprisal shall return upon your own head. For as you drank on My holy mountain, so shall all the nations drink continually; yes, they shall drink, and swallow, and they shall be as though they had never been.”

Our Bibles are stacked with descriptions of God’s covenantal and unconditional, enduring love for Israel. There are several warnings about the judgment which awaits those who “qalal” (treat with contempt) Genesis 12 : 3 Israel. It could NOT be any clearer in the Scriptures. AND STILL, we have churches today that completely disregard the place Israel holds in the heart of our God.

The message of Obadiah is so relevant for us today. We dare not ignore it. Read it. Discuss it with your friends. Teach it to your children.

Edom (and Edomites by definition) is destined for utter, complete destruction in the Messianic Age to come. Don’t be a part of it.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   7

Torah portion            Genesis 28 : 10  – 32 : 3

Haftarah portion     Hosea 12 : 13 – 14 : 10

Listen to the Prophets

Firstly Amos, then Hosea, were God’s appointed messengers to the territory occupied by the ten tribes of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, the strongest of which was the tribe of Ephraim. For that reason, the whole territory is sometimes, as in our parashah today, referred to as Ephraim. (There is no tribe of Joseph. His sons Ephraim and Manasseh became the tribal leaders of their territory which, presumably, would have otherwise been allotted to Joseph).

After King Solomon died, he was followed by Reheboam, as King of Judea in the South, and Jereboam, as King of Israel in the North. Jereboam made two golden calves, installed one at Bethel in the south of the territory, and the other in Dan in the north. He instructed the people that they no longer needed to worship YHWH in the appointed place, Jerusalem, because it was too far to travel. They could worship either at Bethel or Dan for their convenience. That was the beginning of their courtship with idolatry, but there was worse to follow as we shall see.

Hosea’s prophecy covers the late years of the existence of the Northern Kingdom before they were invaded and taken captive by the Assyrians under King Shalamanezer V in the year 722 B.C.E. 

So that, briefly is the history. Now let us look closely at the lessons which are to be learned from this parashah.

It begins by reminding us of the way they had been led, many years earlier, out of the bondage of Egypt. Then, Ephraim spoke as a leader to them, trembling. But soon, he exalted himself before the people, led them in worship of Ba’al, died spiritually, and things progressed down the slippery slope of idol worship. The sins of the people were multiplied, and they apparently revelled in their idolatry. Now hear the Word of the Lord to them :-  

"Yet I am the LORD your God ever since the land of Egypt, and you shall know no God but Me; for there is no saviour besides Me.  I knew you in the wilderness, in the land of great drought. When they had pasture, they were filled; they were filled and their heart was exalted;  therefore they forgot Me.”

What a sad commentary that is on a people, saved by grace, prospered in God’s love for them, got wealthy (by this world’s standards) and   …. “Therefore they forgot Me”.

It is not too difficult a stretch to see life today in this description is it? Leaders who exalt themselves in the eyes of their ‘flock’. Men and women who, by persuasive language and skilful manipulation take positions of influence. Idolatry begins there. There follows a less than honest teaching of the Word of God. An unbalanced, incomplete, downright heretical, or perhaps just a ‘popular gospel message’ in an attempt to attract a larger audience. (“metaphorically teaching that one does not need to worship in Jerusalem, as God commanded, do it this way .. it is much more convenient!!). 

Individuals who are saved by grace, progress in life, become successful in business. Maybe inheriting wealth, and finding that they do not need to meet with God as often. Self-sufficiency becomes a by-word. Idolatry takes a hold. 

The result is exactly the same today as it was for those people being addressed by Hosea all those years ago. “Therefore they forgot Me”.

The analogy of childbirth (v 13) is graphic. A child, remaining in the very place of birth would surely suffocate and die. Ephraim is likened so. With the means and power to move on, Ephraim remained in idolatry. It was a comfortable and seemingly safe place (v 15) but soon judgement was to come with devastating result.

Then in chapter 14 of our reading, the prophet again turns to pleading and the message of comfort. Take a moment to read it. What a beautiful picture of the joy available to those who repent and turn back to the Lord. As I ‘reflect’ on these words, I see a picture of the Messianic Kingdom to come. But they represent much more than that. Almost at the ‘eleventh hour’ it seems, the prophet was showing the people what was available to them NOW.

“Who is wise? Let him understand these things. Who is prudent? Let him know them. For the ways of the LORD are right; the righteous walk in them, but transgressors stumble in them.”

It was good counsel then, and it is good counsel NOW.

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   6

Torah portion            Genesis 25 : 19  – 28 : 9

Haftarah portion     Malachi 1 : 1 – 2 : 7

Listen to the Prophets

If you have ever heard a sermon from the writings of this prophet, the chances are that the text was Malachi 3:10!! In ‘charismatic’ churches especially, this is the favourite. It is used to pressure people into giving to “my church”. Tithing is a most caring, inclusive, command of God given for a specific purpose. However, the original purpose of the ‘tithe’ commandment is usually completely ignored. But that is another story!

Malachi was a prophet in the days of Nehemiah. Probably the last of the ‘writing’ prophets before the 400 years of Biblical silence prior to the arrival on this earth of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach. A lot happened in those 400 years, and much is written about them ... but not in our Bible.

The burden of the prophet was to counter the incidences within the community regarding corrupt priests, wicked practices, and the false sense of security under which the people lived. Hypocrisy, infidelity, mixed marriages, divorce, false worship and arrogance abounded. The covenant made in the days of Moses was disregarded and made of no reputation.

“Malachi” means “My messenger” which is likely short for “Messenger of YHWH”. He uses a series of rhetorical questions and responses to get the message across. Right upfront we have the unusual statement regarding God’s view of Jacob and Esau. Commentators try to explain this seemingly harsh statement about Esau. But the similarly harsh reality is that Esau is “Edom”. Edom is one of two places in Scripture which are destined to suffer total desolation by destruction, in the Messianic age to come. The other place is Babylon.

The list of offences spoken by the Lord through Malachi in this parashah is worthy of careful attention. There is a salutary lesson for us today as we read the nature of the offences of these Israelites.

“Where is My honour?  … Where is My reverence?” asks the Lord. The feelings of deep disappointment in those questions is palpable. We should perhaps consider those questions as being put directly to ourselves. They are questions which require a response.

Then the priests ask “In what way have we despised Your Name?” You bring your ‘second best’ or even that which has no value to you, is God’s response. If we are to learn something from this passage of Scripture we need to see this exchange in ‘today’ terms. That which we present to our God should be the very best we have to offer. You may have heard it said “How would one behave if the Queen were to visit? How would one dress? What food would one prepare? How would one speak? God asks a similar question through the prophet. “Offer to your Governor what you offer to me. Would he be pleased with you?”  

In prophetic response to that question, God declares “From the rising of the sun, even to its going down, My Name shall be great among the Gentiles”. We, dear gentile friends, are the beneficiaries of that. The question now is how we respond to that today. The amazing wonder of Scripture is its timelessness. What the Lord declared then is no different to what He declares today. PLEASE read this parashah. Ask the Lord to show you that which he wants you to know. You will receive both a blessing, and a challenge.

At that time it was as though God had had enough, and then He remained silent. He was silent for 400 years. His silence is devastating. You really do not want to experience it.

In the Israelites experience, in the period of that silence, their land was invaded by Greece, and later by Romans. They suffered great indignity and shame. Their Temple was taken from them and defiled. They were forbidden, by the invaders to have and to even read the Scriptures. They were effective outcasts in their own land.

But God is faithful. He remembered the covenant He had made with the sons of Aaron (Numbers 25:10-13). So our parashah ends with the recollection of that covenant (Malachi 2:4-7). It comprises yet another plea from God that the people would seek the counsel of a faithful priest. One who could, and would, speak truth from God’s word, and encourage the people to again ‘walk in God’s ways’.

It was good advice then, and it is good advice today. We have Yeshua, The Great High Priest, as our advocate before our heavenly Father.

That seems like a good note on which to end our reflection doesn’t it?

Shabbat Shalom

RS

Haftarah Reflections   5

Torah portion             Genesis 23 : 1  – 25 : 18

Haftarah portion     1 Kings 1 : 1 – 31

Listen to the Prophets

The connection between this week’s Torah portion and the Haftarah, seems to be about “age”, because the Torah portion makes reference to the elderly Abraham (Genesis 24), and the Haftarah begins with reference to the elderly King David. Superficially, there does not seem to be much other connection in the comparison of their respective lives, except that they were both pivotal to God’s grand plan for mankind.

I was also quite surprised to note, during this study, that whilst Abraham lived 175 years, King David was ‘only’ about 70 years old at the time of this story, which describes him as ‘in advanced years’.

We have a relatively short Haftarah reading this week. It starts with the “very old” King David, seemingly losing his grip on his kingly role. The much respected King David had formerly been a pillar of strength in the Nation, having brought the various tribes to unite under his leadership. They enjoyed peace and prosperity in the land, and had much for which to thank David. BUT, he was not without fault.

There appears to be a sub-plot running in the parashah. King David lived in Hebron for the first 7 years or so of his reign. During that time, he took a number of wives, the fourth being a lady called Haggith. The fourth child she bore David was called Adonijah, and according to our text, a very good looking young man. However, it is quite significant to me that we are told that David “had never rebuked him at any time”.

Was he such a good boy that he did not need correction?                      

Was he so clever that he managed to ‘stay under the radar’ when David was around?                                                                                        

Was David such a poor father that he did not spend time with the boy?  Of course we do not know. But what we can deduce is that he was perhaps a bit of a “spoilt brat”. (with apologies if I have got that bit wrong!!)  What we do know, on the authority of Scripture, that just like the Fatherly example given by God Himself  “whom He loves, He chastens”, and this boy had never been chastened by his father.