Reflections
Brit Hadashah Reflections
Brit Hadashah Reflections 20
Hebraic understanding Hebrews and Revelation
This is a part of Scripture which is avoided by many people because of its seeming complexity. It is the only book in our Bible attributed to Yeshua Ha’mashiach Himself. Written by the Apostle John late in his life during a visionary encounter with the Holy Spirit of God. At times John is prompted, even directed, by the Lord to write what he is witnessing. One can only guess at the amazing spectacle of being so directed. What he describes is sometimes very difficult to imagine. There are quite unusual events and situations, such as have never before been encountered by mankind, to be considered, evaluated, and reckoned with. But it all comes with a promise!
What an amazing introduction to this “ekklesia” in Sardis. It is difficult to imagine a more condemning accusation. Sardis, present day Sart (formerly Sartmahmut before October 2005) is situated about 75 Km south east of Thyatira and 100 Km east of Izmir. The city was destroyed by an earthquake in 17 C.E. but evidently the “ekklesia’ continued to function after that. Excavations conducted in the past 50 years have uncovered many fine building from Roman times, including a Temple to Artemis, together with what is probably the most impressive of all the Synagogues which have been excavated in Turkey. The work continues.
“I know your works” said “He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars.” Then the statement of condemnation. “You have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.” There is nothing exceptional in the fact that Yeshua knew their works. He knows the works of us all. But that then highlights the next statement. In paraphrase, “You have managed to convince a lot of people that you have got things together, but I know that you are just putting on a show.” Is that what I am doing? Or you? Just putting on a show to impress my friends? It is a sure thing that if Yeshua knew, they also would know their own heart. Their motive in the type of actions and attitudes which were contrived to convey that impression. In their minds they thought it was working, and it probably was. But as God said to Samuel when David was chosen to be King over Israel, “Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart.” Let us never forget that.
It may be profitable to ponder the difference between “being alive” and “being dead”. It may seem obvious, but in the “ekklesia’ it could mean more than the obvious. For example, you might hear someone referring to the number of additional members, the growth rate, in conversation about different “ekklesia”. Most would consider that to be a good sign. But the more important measure of an “ekklesia” would be the spiritual growth of individuals within that “ekklesia”. Many “ekklesia” today have very attractive (bands, sound effects, visual presentation etc,) services to encourage attendance. The focus is on numbers. Often the Word of God is rarely opened and read publically. The sermon begins with a scripture text which is them used as a launching pad for whatever social issue gets the best attention. There are other elements too which comprise great activity, but no “life”. No call of sinners to repentance. No call to live righteously before a holy God. Dead. Could that have been the condition of this “ekklesia” in Sardis? All froth and no bubble?
“Be watchful and strengthen the things that remain, that are ready to die.” In paraphrase, “You know what’s right, you’ve let that slip, don’t let that which is good die with the rest. Remember your early teaching, that which you had from the beginning, stir it up, hold on to it, repent of the things you have let go. Restore the life you once had.” Then what appears as a threat, but is really a promise. “Because if you don’t, there are no more warnings, I will come when you least expect it and ‘remove your lampstand’.” And then there is great encouragement to individuals within that, and any other, “ekklesia”. Just as Yeshua ‘knows the works’ of the “ekklesia”, He also ‘knows the works’ of the individual. There were those with ‘unsoiled garments’ in the Sardis “ekklesia”. Possibly they were frustrated by what they could see going on around them in the name of the “ekklesia”. You may be like that yourself. Well here is the good news. Remain faithful to the truth of God’s Word. Don’t compromise. Stick to what you know to be right. Why?
“You have a few names, even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.” What a promise! “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.” Eternity with “He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars.” That is a rock solid promise. But, by inference, there will be some who will have their names blotted out of the Book of Life. The Apostle Matthew also provided this message in his gospel account didn’t he? Look at Matthew 7:21. “Not everyone who says to me ‘Lord, Lord’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” It is often said that one can do nothing to earn one’s salvation. Quite correct too. But evidently, there are things that can be done to maintain it!!
Shabbat Shalom
RS
Brit Hadashah Reflections
Brit Hadashah Reflections 19
Hebraic understanding Hebrews and Revelation
This is a part of Scripture which is avoided by many people because of its seeming complexity. It is the only book in our Bible attributed to Yeshua Ha’mashiach Himself. Written by the Apostle John late in his life during a visionary encounter with the Holy Spirit of God. At times John is prompted, even directed, by the Lord to write what he is witnessing. One can only guess at the amazing spectacle of being so directed. What he describes is sometimes very difficult to imagine. There are quite unusual events and situations, such as have never before been encountered by mankind, to be considered, evaluated, and reckoned with. But it all comes with a promise!
Notice how Yeshua changes His attributes, the description of Himself, as He writes to each of these seven “ekklesia”. To Thyatira He introduces Himself as “the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and His feet like fine brass.” The modern day name of this place is Akhisar. It is about 80 Km west of Pergamos and probably the same distance north west of Izmir. A city of about 120,000 people and noted today for its production of tobacco, olives and olive oil. But in Biblical times it was famous for its purple cloth trade, the home of Lydia, It has a history extending back 3000 years.
But now to the letter to this “ekklesia’. It is no surprise that Yeshua said “I know your works.” is it? It was a fellowship of love, service, and patience. It seems to have been a ‘warm’ fellowship. Good to be part of. There was a notable evidence of good works because that seemed to be singled out as a growth element. “The last (the latest) are more than at first.” They were doing their faith, and had learned the value of doing good works. It may even have been a cause for the growth of the fellowship. Most people are much more influenced by what a person does rather than what he/she says. Words are much easier than actions. But it wasn’t all good news. There was an ‘elephant’ in the room! The ‘elephant’ was a lady called Jezebel. (In the Hebrew language ‘Iezabele’ is also a synonym for ‘false teacher’) This lady apparently went much further.
‘Jezebel’ might have been her given name, but some commentators have voiced doubt about that. It is tempting, because of the name, to equate this person with the infamous wife of King Ahab. We know quite a bit about her, she was a scheming, influential, dominant woman and evil at that. Because of her record, the term “Jezebel spirit” has been coined to apply to such people, and particularly to those women who are married to weak men. Certainly, the activities attributed to the Thyatira Jezebel would make her a candidate for such description. And she was not oblivious to her wrongdoing, Yeshua said so, “And I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality, and she did not repent.” So her behaviour was wilfully conducted. But seemingly, no-one in the “ekklesia” there did anything to bring about correction. The behaviour was tolerated in spite of their knowledge of it. Maybe it was a kind of misplaced love for her.
There is much teaching in the Scriptures about the toleration of error, both in a person and in the “ekklesia’. Test the spirits, judge the prophets, seek righteousness, even cast such unrepentant brother out, are some of the exhortations which come to mind. Why? Because there is another well know axim which is “A little leaven leavens the whole lump.” And as someone once observed ‘great oaks from little acorns grow’. And in Proverbs 17 we read “The beginning of strife is like releasing water, therefore stop contention before a quarrel starts.” It is all about addressing issues in a swift and timely manner. There will always be consequences for tardiness. Yeshua is very direct. “Indeed I will cast her into a bed, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of their deeds.” And there is more. “I will kill all her children with death, and all the “ekklesia” will know that I am He that searches the minds and hearts. And I will give to each one of you according to your works.” (that sounds like a threat doesn’t it? But it is not, it is a promise!)
But in the “ekklesia” at Thyatira there were those who were innocent of such misdemeanour. To those He said “I will put no other burden on you but hold fast what you have till I come. And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations.” What a triumphant note of promise to conclude this letter to these people.
At the beginning of this Book there was a promise of blessing to those who read and those who hear it. Of necessity, since the works of each “ekklesia” being addressed are known by Yeshua, the letters contain commendations and accusations. But the blessing for them is that they are not left in doubt about such matters. In each case there is an opportunity for repentance, restoration, and a turn around to righteous living. This is not a fairy-tale. It contains all the encouragement needed for readers today to act. To put right that which may be wrong, or unwise. Try to recognize the personal message contained in these letters, because, as ‘the Preacher’ said in Ecclesiastes, “there is nothing new under the sun”. Be blessed as you search the Scriptures for yourself.
Shabbat Shalom
RS
Brit Hadashah Reflections
Brit Hadashah Reflections 18
Hebraic understanding Hebrews and Revelation
This is a part of Scripture which is avoided by many people because of its seeming complexity. It is the only book in our Bible attributed to Yeshua Ha’mashiach Himself. Written by the Apostle John late in his life during a visionary encounter with the Holy Spirit of God. At times John is prompted, even directed, by the Lord to write what he is witnessing. One can only guess at the amazing spectacle of being so directed. What he describes is sometimes very difficult to imagine. There are quite unusual events and situations, such as have never before been encountered by mankind, to be considered, evaluated, and reckoned with. But it all comes with a promise!
“He who has the sharp two-edged sword” told John to write a letter to the “ekklesia” at Pergamos. A city which today, with about 100,000 people, is known as Bergama, some 100 Km north of Izmir. It is a modern city, and just outside the town, on an impressive high mound overlooking the city, to its north, is the ancient site of the Pargamos Altar. It is this high place which was identified in our text as the place where Satan dwelt. There are still ruins there, and an extremely large amphitheatre, But the main structure was taken away by the Germans in 1878, and has since been reconstructed to now stand, a magnificent display together with a number of other ancient structures, including the Ishtar Gate from Babylon, in the Pergamum Museum in Berlin, presently (2018) having a five year long renovation plan in progress.
“I know your works, and I know where you live, where Satan’s throne is.” That is not some kind of sinister threat. It is a real appreciation that this “ekklesia” was situated, in a most difficult location, right in close proximity to the place where Satan himself dwelt and was worshipped. To emphasize the appreciation of this, he continued with the fact in these extremely difficult circumstances, they held fast to their faith. We may get some idea of the difficulties they must have faced when we are also told that one of their number, Antipas by name, was martyred there for his faith. But they remained steadfast.
Never-the-less, “I have a few things against you” He said. Firstly, there are some of you who ‘followed the doctrine of Baalam’. What was that? In a nutshell, the ‘doctrine of Baalam’ was that it appears that he would do anything for a profit! There seemed to be no moral compass in Baalam. As a prophet, he took a commission from Baal to curse the Israelites. But God intervened to prevent him. When he failed to produce the curse directly, he cooked up the plan to subvert the Israelites into sexual misconduct with the women of Moab and Midian. That worked, but with disastrous consequences. In any event, that situation was apparently also present in this “ekklesia” in Pergamos, although the detail, is not available to us. What we do know is that it involved, what was to the Israelites, prohibited contact and liaison between the two groups. It may be described as an “unequal yoke”.
Two weeks ago, in our ‘reflection’ on the letter to the “ekklesia” at Ephesus, we came across this “doctrine of the Nicolaitans”. Which Yeshua hates! Here it is again. There are many suppositions about this, but the most prevalent view is that it involved the very common practise of hierarchical control. If it was prevalent then, when this letter was written, there have been over 1900 years of practice to perfect the phenomenon! The word ‘Nicolaitan’ is derived from two Greek words. “Nikao” which means ‘to conquer’, and “laos” which means ‘people’, and from which the English word ‘laity’ comes. SO, the perceived meaning of ‘the doctrine of the Nicolaitans’ is the “conquest of the people” (by those in authority). That may take many forms. The most insidious of which, today, is the teaching of the Catholic Church regarding the infallibility of ‘Il Papa’, the Pope. But they are not alone. Protestant denominations, possibly especially the Pentecostal assemblies, are rife with it. Most congregants are subdued by the exhortation to not speak against ‘the Lord’s anointed’! The more relevant exhortation would be to act as a ‘watchman’, protecting the ‘laity’ form abusive doctrinal control. Let me explain by quoting from an enlightening article I read recently on this subject (Author unknown). “That which we identify as “The Lord’s Prayer” says, in part, “let it be on earth as it is in Heaven.” In this ‘revelation’ of John he was led into the very throne room of God. There he observed 24 Elders, which we do not know much about, except that they are important. But when they hear ‘the four living creatures’ giving glory, honour, and thanks to God, they (as important as they are) fall down prostrate, worship Him and cast their crowns before the throne of God. No-one has any business claiming any position over any other person in God’s sight. It always leads to abuse.” And Yeshua hates it.
“Repent, or else I will come to you quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth” says “He who has the sharp two-edged sword.” Friends, we need to take heed to these messages to the ‘churches’. Most of us are part of a ‘church’. Time is short. Shorter now than it was then. “He who has ears to hear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the ‘churches’.”
Shabbat Shalom
RS
Brit Hadashah Reflections
Brit Hadashah Reflections 17
Hebraic understanding Hebrews and Revelation
This is a part of Scripture which is avoided by many people because of its seeming complexity. It is the only book in our Bible attributed to Yeshua Ha’mashiach Himself. Written by the Apostle John late in his life during a visionary encounter with the Holy Spirit of God. At times John is prompted, even directed, by the Lord to write what he is witnessing. One can only guess at the amazing spectacle of being so directed. What he describes is sometimes very difficult to imagine. There are quite unusual events and situations, such as have never before been encountered by mankind, to be considered, evaluated, and reckoned with. But it all comes with a promise!
“Write to the angel of the “ekklesia” in Smyrna” said “the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life.” to John. There is no indication of the relative timing of these letters, but a reasonable assumption is that they flowed seamlessly from one to the next. Since 1930, the city of Smyrna has been known as Izmir, and it is today a thriving modern city. The original Smyrna dates back to antiquity (about 1100 B.C.E.) but another “Old Smyrna” developed in the 2nd century C.E under Roman rule. Both sites are still being researched and developed as tourist attractions. It was, and is, an important sea port in Western Turkey, about 80 Km north of Ephesus, with a population exceeding 3 million today. (the third largest city in Turkey after Istanbul and Ankara).
So John wrote the letter as ‘dictated’ to him.
“I know your works.” A phrase common to all these “ekklesia”. It applies to every body of people who meet in the Lord’s name. Sincerity, hypocrisy, fervour (contrived or otherwise), indifference, pride, humility. Nothing is hidden from “the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life.” We all are ‘an open book’ to Him. These letters are written in the context of prophetic events about to occur as this age comes to an end, and the awesome judgment of a holy God is faced by all. It is not mere coincidence that in this ‘revelation’ the Messiah takes occasion to provide an honest assessment of the “ekklesia” so that repentance and restoration may be attended to quickly, before it is too late. How gracious is that?
The people of this “ekklesia” were struggling financially, they evidently did not have much by way of possessions, but they had a richness of faith. The reward of that faithfulness was ahead of them and these were words of great encouragement to them. But among them were those who “say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue if Satan.” Commentators have speculated widely about what this actually means. What has been revealed to me does not accord with any of those speculations, and I invite you to cautiously consider mine. One of the commandments of Torah is to care for others, to share your faith and your substance. We have just read of the poverty of these people. Is it possible that in their community there were some who had means to help the poor among them? Jews. But who regardless of their declaration of allegiance to Torah did nothing about it. Hypocrites. Jews outwardly but not in practise. And for that reason are described as belonging to ‘a synagogue of Satan.’ Selfish, uncaring, arrogant in their religiosity, proud. (Refer to James 2 : 14-18) Well that is what the Lord prompted me to think as I read this statement.
The encouragement continued. “Do not fear any of those thing you are about (in the end times) to suffer.” There will be severe testing. There will be tribulation. You will die (for your faith). But then “I will give you the crown of life.” Dear friends, what is being said here is that those who are alive when the end comes will face great challenges. This letter is written, by the Lord Yeshua Himself, to an “ekklesia” of believers. Not only is there no hint of a ‘prosperity gospel’ for them, quite the reverse, but there is the certainty of great travail because of their faith. Yeshua said (Matt 10:20, Matt 24:13 and Mark 13:13) “he that endures to the end shall be saved.” And now it comes with a promise of “the crown of life.”
I also note here in this letter that there is no mention of the ‘rapturous escape’ for this “ekklesia” from these events of the end times. It is often a comfortable teaching of the church that these events are for the wicked to face, the unsaved, the stubbornly rebellious. Well that is not what “the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life.” Is saying, is it?
But there is another promise at the end of this letter. “He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.” Praise God for that. The writer to the Hebrews told us that “It is appointed unto man, once to die, and after that, the judgement.” Everyone in history (except Enoch and Elijah) has, or will, experience the first death. Everyone. Inescapable. For some, as for my dear wife, it was a welcome relief from suffering. There is much hurt, anguish and sometimes pain associated with this first death. But the second death is different. That also involves intense pain and discomfort because it precedes the prospect of eternity in a ‘lake of fire’. For some. But for “those who overcome”, for those who have their names inscribed in the “Lamb’s Book of Life”, there is No hurt, No pain, No anxiety. There is an eternity in the very presence of Almighty God Himself and His angels and those who we will become aquainted with as we proceed to study this revelation (the unveiling) of the Lord Yeshua to John.
Shabbat Shalom
RS
Brit Hadashah Reflections
Brit Hadashah Reflections 16
Hebraic understanding Hebrews and Revelation
This is a part of Scripture which is avoided by many people because of its seeming complexity. It is the only book in our Bible attributed to Yeshua Ha’mashiach Himself. Written by the Apostle John late in his life during a visionary encounter with the Holy Spirit of God. At times John is prompted, even directed, by the Lord to write what he is witnessing. One can only guess at the amazing spectacle of being so directed. What he describes is sometimes very difficult to imagine. There are quite unusual events and situations, such as have never before been encountered by mankind, to be considered, evaluated, and reckoned with. But it all comes with a promise!
“Write this to the angel of the “ekklesia” at Ephesus” John is instructed. We remind ourselves that it was at Ephesus, probably 50 years earlier, that the “ekklesia” was established by the Apostle Paul, and the young Timothy was ‘posted’ there to establish and teach the flock. Ephesus is a very old city dating back over 3000 years B.C.E. but came to some prominence about 500 B.C.E when the Greeks began to develop it as a place of worship to the fertility goddess Diana. Once a thriving seaport, centre of commerce, and from about 100 B.C.E to 100 C.E (200 years) was the acknowledged centre of the slave trade. The city became a cultural centre too, with many attractive buildings including a Library, Museum, and others now well restored and preserved for the tourist industry. The ruins of the Temple of Artimis (Dianna, the many breasted symbol of fertility) is still there attracting much attention. In my own experience I recall walking down the well restored main street, seeing (in my imagination) Paul and Timothy walking in front of me discussing matters important to the task Timothy was set.
But John sets about writing a letter. “These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands.” Words which may sound mysterious to the members of that “ekklesia”, but they were addressed to the angel responsible for what happened in that place and he would understand completely and communicate these matters to the body of people who were its members.
There are seven letters. One to each of the seven “ekklesia” in that region. Because we have the content of each before us we can draw comparisons and conclusions relating to each. They have similar formats, but they are different. They are personal to each “ekklesia”. However, it is noteworthy that each salutation contains a different attribute of the One who wrote the letter. But at the same time, the format is quite similar for each one. A commendation of approval, for some an accusation of shortcoming, for each some advice, an appeal and an assurance.
To this “ekklesia” in Ephesus, as indeed to all of them, there is the declaration “I know your works”. Nothing is hidden from Me says the One who holds the seven stars in His right hand. “You are patient, and you cannot bear (are intolerant to) those who are evil.” That’s a good start isn’t it? As we proceed to understand this letter we should check our own position because just as the “works” of these people are known, so are ours! “You have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars.” Do you wonder how these folk were ‘tested’? I do. The test of any who speak in the name of the Lord is whether or not what they say, and what they do, accords with the word of God. God will not say anything, to anyone, which does not line up with His written word. That word is set in concrete. “The Lord told me” is a conversation stopper. But it ought not to be. It needs to be a conversation opener. “How do you know?” is a question which should follow. If we learn nothing else from this letter we should learn this. Test the spirits whether they be of God. Yeshua commends this “ekklesia” for exactly that.
“You have persevered and have patience, and have laboured for My name’s sake and have not become weary.” (a note of reference here. The word ‘weary’ is the same Greek word incorrectly translated ‘sick’ in James 5 causing many to misunderstand James letter on the issue of physical healing) So there are good commendations for this “ekklesia”. But then the accusation. “I have this against you, that you have left your first love (“protos agape”). We are not told specifically what this means and many commentators have speculated on a wide variety of possibilities. At the simplest level, I take it to mean something most of us experience. Cast you mind back to the time you first came to faith. The excitement, the anticipation, the enthusiasm. Is that still as strong as it was? Has it become more ‘ordinary’, more ritualistic, less exciting? That is what I think this means. Well here’s the remedy. Revisit the reasons you first repented of sin. Repent again. Catch the fire of the reality of what you have been saved for. Otherwise, says the letter, “I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place - unless you repent.” The lampstand provided light. That light shone brightly when the love of this “ekklesia” was evident. Losing that ‘first love’ effectively dimmed the light. And note that the lampstands “are the seven “ekklesia’”. Uncorrected, it would be removed completely!!
The comment on the Nicolaitans is not easy to fathom, and will be dealt when we look at the letter to the “ekklesia” in Pergamos.
Shabbat Shalom.
RS
Brit Hadashah Reflections
Brit Hadashah Reflections 15
Hebraic understanding Hebrews and Revelation
This is a part of Scripture which is avoided by many people because of its seeming complexity. It is the only book in our Bible attributed to Yeshua Ha’mashiach Himself. Written by the Apostle John late in his life during a visionary encounter with the Holy Spirit of God. At times John is prompted, even directed, by the Lord to write what he is witnessing. One can only guess at the amazing spectacle of being so directed. What he describes is sometimes very difficult to imagine. There are quite unusual events and situations, such as have never before been encountered by mankind, to be considered, evaluated, and reckoned with. But it all comes with a promise!
“Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.” Why? The words of this prophecy comprise the words of the risen Messiah, which God gave to Him to reveal to His servants (any who name the Name of Yeshua as Saviour) because these things must shortly take place. Then the Apostle John testified that he has faithfully written all the things that were shown to him. It is the only book in our Bible which has such a promise of blessing attached to it. One of the blessings is that those who are alive at that time will possess ‘inside information’ which will allow him/her to watch events unfold and to be prepared as they witness the coming of the end of this age. But though it won’t be pretty, there is great reward for those who endure to the end.
It is quite interesting that this Revelation (unveiling or disclosure) is addressed to the seven “ekklesia” which had been established in “Asia Minor”. (which is modern day Turkey) Interestingly, from other prophecies in the Hebrew Scriptures it is not difficult to discern that this is precisely the region of the globe from whence comes the promised ‘final battle’ to overcome Israel. (i.e. from the north) It may also be significant that there are no “ekklesia” from Israel itself included, possibly because after the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple (which is when this was written) the Jews had been significantly dispersed. Also at the same time, even though it is difficult to determine the actual significance, the “ekklesia” being addressed would have been ‘mixed’ congregations comprising both Jews and gentiles.
Very early we have confirmation, first spoken by angels, appearing as two men in white apparel to the disciples at on the Mount of Olives (Acts 2:11) that Yeshua will return to this earth. “Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.” Why will they mourn? Isn’t this a time to rejoice? Well I think that is the time when there no longer will ‘faith’ be required to believe. Everyone, and perhaps especially those who are unbelieving Jews, will see how wrong they have been to treat their Messiah with such contempt. The sceptics, the scoffers, the indifferent, the arrogant atheistic hordes, will all gaze in amazement at the spectacle of the coming again of the King of kings and the Lord of lords. “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, who is, who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” Is the announcement to John as he enters the realm of Spirit led revelation. But before that day arrives, John is shown many things which will happen as that day approaches.
John said “I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day and I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet.” Commentators are divided about the precise meaning of this declaration. Certainly it would appear that John was in a state of elevated spirituality, however that might have come about, and was receptive to the revelation of these prophetic events which are later described in detail. No-one can accurately determine exactly what day this occurred, but all are convinced it was not a Sabbath day. Others suggest that it was a “Lordy day”. A day of contemplation with the Lord. It really has no relevance to the actual revelation does it? That which fascinates me is the description of the One who describes Himself as “the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last” standing in the middle of the seven lampstands, and having seven stars in His right hand. Dressed in a full length garment with a golden band around the chest. Head and hair white like snow, and eyes like a flame of fire. Deep resonant voice. Spectacular sight and sound. Authoritative. Close your eyes and try to take it all in. Out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, His face like bright sunlight. John was absolutely dumbstruck, and fell down at His feet as dead. Motionless. Then the words of comfort, laying His right hand (the one holding the seven stars) on John “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last.” Followed by the instructions to write everything down. In paraphrase “Don’t trust your memory, write it as you see it, the things you have already seen and the things which you are about to see.” But first the mystery of the seven stars and the seven golden lampstands.
“The seven stars are the angels of the seven “ekklesia”, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven “ekklesia”. And that is where we will go next week!
Shabbat Shalom
RS
Brit Hadashah Reflections
Brit Hadashah Reflections 14
Hebraic understanding Hebrews and Revelation
Revelation introduction
This is a part of Scripture which is avoided by many people because of its seeming complexity. It is the only book in our Bible attributed to Yeshua Ha’mashiach Himself. Written by the Apostle John late in his life during a visionary encounter with the Holy Spirit of God. At times John is prompted, even directed, by the Lord to write what he is witnessing. One can only guess at the amazing spectacle of being so directed. What he describes is sometimes very difficult to imagine. There are quite unusual events and situations, such as have never before been encountered by mankind, to be considered, evaluated, and reckoned with. But it all comes with a promise!
The very name of this book is intriguing. The Greek text calls it “Apokalypsis Ioannou”. Translated into English it means the “unveiling” or “disclosure” or “revelation” of John. But in the very first sentence of this book, John takes all focus off himself and attributes it as “The Revelation of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach.” And so it is.
It is the only book in our Bible which begins with a promise of blessing. “Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it.” And as indicated in that promise, it is a book which is largely prophetic of future events.
Additionally, it is the only book in our Bible which ends with a similar promise of blessing, and then contains a dire warning to those who discuss, teach, or otherwise communicate its content. Firstly the blessing. “Blessed are those who DO His commandments that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the (holy) city.” For me they are words of great comfort, because as I have ‘reflected’ on the Scriptures over the past four years (published by Zion’s Voice) the one outstanding thing with which I have been impressed is the way in which the Scriptures, over and over again, have declared and reminded us to DO the commandments of God. Secondly the warning. “For I testify to everyone who hears (I take very careful note) the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city and from the things which are written in this book.” Wow! What a warning eh!
Then we come to the content itself. In His dictation to John, Yeshua starts by writing a personal letter to the seven “ekklesia” situated in the region we now recognize as Turkey. Many have seen these “ekklesia” as representative of the ‘types’ of churches we have in our modern society. There is no doubt that they may well be representative in some respect, but the broader message in these letters is that of the intimate knowledge of our Master Yeshua with their actions, activities, attitudes, and conduct. I think that is very important. No church, or individual member of that church, should regard that lightly. There are commendations and there are accusations. None of it without His perfect knowledge. He really does know what is going on in this world of ours, and especially with those who claim to belong to Him.
Much of what we will attempt to unravel is contained in the prophetic elements of this vision of John’s. Some of the detail is unfamiliar to our present understanding. But there are a number of references to earlier writings from the major prophetic books of our Bible which give us a clue to the events which are about to happen. The focus is on the end of this present age. This present age will not pass without significant upheaval, distress and challenge. It is clear that Satan will not go ‘quietly’. There will be horrendous carnage before Satan is finally dealt with.
Having read the book through, I am unsure at this stage of the exact sequence of the events described. Some things appear to be clearly chronological, but other times it appears that some events may overlap or even be in a different order to which they are referred in the text. None of that has any effect on the events themselves, which are described in amazing detail.
It is uncertain that this book can follow the rigid structure of my previous ‘reflections’, which is chapter by chapter. From my recent reading it seems not to lend itself to that kind of rigidity. Additionally, considering the warning already referred to, I am anxious to avoid any speculative comment on what some of the unusual detail might be referring to.
The good news is that we see how things will end. Those who have their names written in the Lamb’s Book of Life may look forward to the chapters 19 to 22 with eager anticipation. Satan will have been dealt with, as indeed are his followers, and the deceived. But there may also be some shocks in store for us too. The book does not skip lightly over detail and there is absolutely no reason for any who read the book to be surprised when the end comes. Nothing is left out.
Be blessed yourself as you read this book in anticipation of what our ‘reflective’ study reveals.
Shabbat Shalom
RS
Brit Hadashah Reflections
Brit Hadashah Reflections 13
Hebraic understanding Hebrews and Revelation
A wonderful letter to Jews exalting the Name and Person of Yeshua. No-one knows the identity of the author or the time of its authorship. The most speculated names associated with this letter are Rabbi Sha’ul and Barnabas, but that matters little to the content. The author was one who had a fervent desire to see Jews come to faith in Yeshua, and just as importantly to continue in that faith in the face of opposition and discouragement. However, its content has often been portrayed by Christian teachers as abrogating the Torah. That was not its purpose, and there are great lessons for believers of every culture and background contained in its message. Again we remind ourselves that the chapter and verse convenience was not present in the original, even though we will take the chapter divisions for our study and ‘reflection’. Additionally, there is significant quotation of the Hebrew Scriptures in this letter. The source document for these quotations is the Septuagint, also known as the LXX, the earliest Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, and which was completed about 130 years before the birth of Yeshua. (so where those Scriptures are quoted the wording may not exactly accord with your own favourite translation!)
We come to the end of the letter. The bulk of it has concerned the superiority of Messiah Yeshua over every other person and ordinance that these Messianic Jews valued. Things in heaven and things on earth. The great faith of the patriarchs and prophets are cited for emulation. The temporary sacrificial system of ‘drawing near to God’ superseded by the once for all time sacrifice of our Saviour. Yeshua, the Great High Priest seated at the right hand of the Father interceding on behalf of those who have put their trust in Him. And there is just one more step for these Messianic Jews to take. It is practical. It is lifestyle. It is community. “Let brotherly love continue.” Sounds easy but it contains much more than a suggestion!
“Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.” (A text oft quoted to me by my late wife) What a blessing it is to be able to share one’s home and table with others. And if our experience is typical there is bountiful blessing for the hosts! And the exhortation continued. “Remember the prisoners as if chained with them.” That is something with which I cannot easily relate because in all my life I have only ever visited five prisons, and that to distribute gifts at Christmas time. I cannot even imagine what incarceration for long periods is like. But that is the exhortation to these Messianic Jews. Friends of mine, firmly committed to ‘prison ministry’ have encouraging stories to tell of that ministry. May God richly bless them for their diligence. At the other end of the scale, “Let your conduct be without covetousness, be content with such things as you have.” Maybe a timely word for our overly covetous society today. The ‘keeping up with the Joneses’ syndrome. It behoves each individual reader of this letter to take from it that which the Lord speaks through it. And trust me on this, for those who belong to the Lord there is always a message. Just ask the Lord to show you.
“Remember those who rule over you” is often considered to be the people in government. But that is not what the writer means here. The reference is to those in teaching roles in the “ekklesia’. Listen to them, watch them, note the outcome of the way they conduct themselves. And if I may be permitted to add a suggestion, take the trouble to check their words with the injunction of the Scriptures. Engage in edifying conversation. Be active in the application of the Scriptures to everyday life. The writer said “Yeshua Ha’mashiach is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Since we know that “He is the Word, the Word that became flesh and dwelt among us, the Word that was in the beginning with God, the Word that was God.” It is perfectly safe to say that the written Word of the Scriptures must be our ultimate source of safety in what we believe. And so the writer warned them “Do not be carried about with various and strange doctrines.” The warning is the same today. Check if what you are being asked to embrace accords with the written Word of Scripture. It is a matter of life and death.
And finally, the writer returns to sacrifices. For all the reasons laid out in this letter, everything that has been said about the superiority of Yeshua, Prophet, Great High Priest, and coming King, “by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.” That is vitally important. Take time to appreciate all that has been accomplished by Yeshua on your behalf. Thank Him and praise Him for that. But that is not the end of matters. In life it is the beginning. The writer continued. “But do not forget to do good and to share (from all that has been written in this letter ask God to show you what, of yourself, you should share) for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”
We are often taught that there is nothing one can do to please God! Well here it is clearly written. There is blessing in pleasing God, and many times it involves ‘putting yourself out’, even inconvenient to your own plans, the writer calls it “sacrifice”. It may better be referred to as being obedient to the call of God on one’s life. God does not ‘call’ anyone without purpose. Find out what it is for you. Read the letter again. You will be blessed.
Shabbat Shalom
RS
Brit Hadashah Reflections
Brit Hadashah Reflections 12
Hebraic understanding Hebrews and Revelation
A wonderful letter to Jews exalting the Name and Person of Yeshua. No-one knows the identity of the author or the time of its authorship. The most speculated names associated with this letter are Rabbi Sha’ul and Barnabas, but that matters little to the content. The author was one who had a fervent desire to see Jews come to faith in Yeshua, and just as importantly to continue in that faith in the face of opposition and discouragement. However, its content has often been portrayed by Christian teachers as abrogating the Torah. That was not its purpose, and there are great lessons for believers of every culture and background contained in its message. Again we remind ourselves that the chapter and verse convenience was not present in the original, even though we will take the chapter divisions for our study and ‘reflection’. Additionally, there is significant quotation of the Hebrew Scriptures in this letter. The source document for these quotations is the Septuagint, also known as the LXX, the earliest Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, and which was completed about 130 years before the birth of Yeshua. (so where those Scriptures are quoted the wording may not exactly accord with your own favourite translation!)
Last week we were reminded of the many faithful servants of the Lord who had lived their faith in their actions, all of whom were known and greatly revered by Jewish people through the ages. The writer this week starts off with another “Therefore” (having regard to all those giants of faith who have gone before us), “let us lay aside every weight (the baggage we hang on to from our past life), and the sin which so easily ensnares us (a common factor for all humanity), and let us run with endurance (that which requires stamina, determination, application and obedience) the race that is set before us.” Why? “Looking unto Yeshua, the author and finisher (complete assurance) of our faith.” He who ran the race set before Him by the Father. The record of His selfless application to the task He was set is recorded in the Scripture account of His life, death, and resurrection. And that is attested to by those who met with Him after His death on that cruel Roman cross, and witnessed His ascension into the clouds with a promise of return in like manner.
The writer is in ‘chastening’ mode as he continued this encouragement to persistence in the faith. He wrote as from the Lord. “My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.” What son is there who hasn’t been chastened, corrected, guided, taught, and encouraged, by an earthly father? How much more then can we expect our Heavenly Father to do likewise, and that all for our own ultimate benefit. And then the writer said words which demand careful consideration. “But if you are without chastening, of which you have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.” Take time to let that sink in. The writer is telling them that if the life of faith appeared easy, not much different to what it was before they became believers, they should carefully evaluate the situation. There is an important lesson here. By putting our trust, by faith, in Yeshua for our salvation, we literally ‘join another Kingdom’. We are no longer ‘of this world’ even though we are still in it. That brings many challenges and situations which were once familiar, but are no longer part of our new Kingdom. Putting it bluntly, do others, our friends, workmates, and family notice any difference in our behaviour, attitude, habits, and lifestyle? Does the reading of the word of God challenge me, or do I find it boring? Does God speak through His word, in correction, instruction, encouragement, direction and faith building? If not, it is time for a spiritual stocktake. “Therefore strengthen the hands that hang down, and the feeble knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed.”
The writer then contrasted Mount Sinai and Mount Zion. He reminded the Messianic Jews that in time past, when God spoke to Moses on Mount Sinai, Moses declared that just being on that mountain terrified him. Moses trembled at the prospect of approaching YHWH Elohim. No-one else, just Moses alone, dare go near the mountain, such was the awesome holiness of the place. It was on Mount Sinai that God spoke, and wrote, the instructions for righteous living. It was on Mount Sinai that God taught Moses the way to lead the Israelites to the Land of Promise. But in absolute contrast, Mount Zion, represented by the very Son of the living God, Yeshua, is approachable by anyone who so desires, without fear, without pre-condition, without anything but a repentant heart. Mount Zion had become representative of “The Land of Promise”, the heavenly Jerusalem, in which the righteous are destined to dwell for all eternity. The Messianic Jews had made that decision. They had come in faith to the One who had the power to invite them in. The writer had spent time in the declaration of the excellence, the superiority, of Yeshua over everything else they had encountered and known, even the most revered Moses. The kingdom of heaven is established in Yeshua, Prophet, Great High Priest and King. Unshakeable, unmovable, permanent.
“Therefore since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire”. Hold fast to your faith.
Shabbat Shalom
RS
Brit Hadashah Reflections
Brit Hadashah Reflections 11
Hebraic understanding Hebrews and Revelation
A wonderful letter to Jews exalting the Name and Person of Yeshua. No-one knows the identity of the author or the time of its authorship. The most speculated names associated with this letter are Rabbi Sha’ul and Barnabas, but that matters little to the content. The author was one who had a fervent desire to see Jews come to faith in Yeshua, and just as importantly to continue in that faith in the face of opposition and discouragement. However, its content has often been portrayed by Christian teachers as abrogating the Torah. That was not its purpose, and there are great lessons for believers of every culture and background contained in its message. Again we remind ourselves that the chapter and verse convenience was not present in the original, even though we will take the chapter divisions for our study and ‘reflection’. Additionally, there is significant quotation of the Hebrew Scriptures in this letter. The source document for these quotations is the Septuagint, also known as the LXX, the earliest Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, and which was completed about 130 years before the birth of Yeshua. (so where those Scriptures are quoted the wording may not exactly accord with your own favourite translation!)
The faith chapter!!
The previous chapter ended with a warning. “For yet a little while, and He who is coming will come and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith (in His return) but if anyone draws back, (from that faith) My soul has no pleasure in him.” And the writer declares that “we (the Messianic Jews) are not of those who draw back.” Our faith is, and continues to be, in Him who died for us. And then he begins a long list of faithful people who had preceded them, pointing to the great benefits which accrued as a result of their faith.
No-one can possibly know how this world came into being. It is our own faith that convinces us to trust that “the worlds were framed by the word of God.” I always shudder when I hear some celebrity historian or anthropologist declare that ‘such and such’ happened, or was formed, ‘x billions of years ago’, where x is a small number and ‘billions’ is absolutely beyond man’s capacity to determine with any meaningful understanding. What appalling arrogance. It is ‘by faith’ that we trust the written word of God. Scholars have determined that at the time the various books of the Hebrew Bible were written, over one quarter (27%) was prophetic, it told of things which would happen in the future! I recently listened to a 2007 teaching CD by David Pawson, in which he stated that of all bible prophecy, over 85% had already been fulfilled. And the rest of the prophecies related to a time still future to us today, i.e. to the return of Messiah Yeshua to this earth. That statistic alone should provide enough to convince anyone that the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is worthy of our trust. But the writer to these Messianic Jews chose events with which they were familiar from their own upbringing, things they were taught at home, events and people they ‘knew’ from their own Mum and Dad, to emphasize the efficacy of the faith to which they had committed themselves.
Most of us are also familiar with the events listed, and it is good to remind ourselves of the detail of each one, to strengthen our own faith today. The first mentioned is the relative offerings of Cain and Abel. In Genesis 4, both boys brought ‘offerings’ which were appropriate to their occupation. The simple words of the text say that God ‘respected’ Abel’s offering, but had not ‘respected’ Cain’s offering. This made Cain very angry, and as a result of his anger he killed Abel. You will search in vain for a Biblical explanation of this, but it is difficult to rationalize the killing of a brother for something beyond his control. In any event, Cain is forever cast as evil as a result. That is not the way to behave, and the record of the incident is a constant reminder of that fact.
Because of his faith, Enoch ‘pleased’ God, so much so that he did not experience death. I see that as an excellent testimony. As a young boy I always wanted to please my Dad, and as a man I seek to ‘please God’. Some say that you can do nothing for God because He has done everything for us. It is foolhardy to compare ones-self to Enoch, but the Aaronic blessing of Numbers 6:25 speaks of ‘God’s face shining on us’, and that is to me a sign of God’s pleasure in us. He must be pleased with our obedience to His word surely! Noah is next mentioned. How obedient was he? Scholars have determined that the Ark must have taken between 50 and 70 years to construct! As far as we know he didn’t even live on the seashore either. One can only speculate on the comments of his neighbours! Noah’s amazingly consistent faith and trust, resulted in God starting all over again with His mankind occupation of the earth. The story of Abraham is very well known, the father of the Hebrews. It is not always appreciated that Abraham and Noah were alive on this earth for about 58 years at the same time! They might even have met. Certainly Abraham would have heard of the faithfulness of Noah. There is so much written about Abraham’s faith and he is revered by all Jews especially.
But there is a most interesting comment here about these men. God had made specific promises, even covenants, with Noah and Abraham. To both men, the covenant which God made was absolutely unconditional on anything they could or should do. And each in turn trusted God implicitly for the fulfilment of those promises. But neither of them saw the complete fulfilment of those promises. They both died without seeing the end of God’s promise. In fact, we who live today have seen more evidence of God’s unfailing commitment to those promises than either Noah or Abraham ever did. Selah.
God made a solemn promises which are conveyed to us by the prophets of old, not the least being that of a new covenant to replace the one made through Moses. We trust in that promise by faith, which we are assured is guaranteed by the blood of Yeshua, but we don’t yet see it in its fullness. The writer to these Messianic Jews listed many more examples of faith in past ancestors, none of whom witnessed the greatest promise of all to them, the coming of their Messiah. But that did not prevent them from their worship of the King of this Universe. We are different today. We have witness and testimony of those who met with the risen Messiah. Who ate with Him, who talked with Him, who saw Him ascend into the heavenly place where He is today seated at the right hand of the Father awaiting His call to return to this earth.
We worship and praise YHWH Elohim who alone is worthy of our praise. And that is what the writer of this letter encourages its readers.
Shabbat Shalom
RS