Tag: Faith

Insights on Prophetic Authority and Scripture

Insights on Prophetic Authority and Scripture

An on going email conversation with two Mormon Missionaries. Part 3.

Hello friends,

i fear we are spreading out into too many topics to truly focus in on understanding. i will do my best to address each one of these topics with fairness of attention. With that said, i also want to let you know that i appreciate our email conversation. It feels good to talk about what i love most.

Let me begin with the topic of Prophets. Since that was the main topic of my last email in response to your question. i would agree with you on the definition of a prophet for the most part. Our differences are mostly inconsequential to address. However, on the point, “determine scripture.” i would have to disagree on this point. As Scripture clearly determines scripture. Man as we see with Rabbinic tradition and the modern Church, has deviated from Scripture. This was identified by Yahoshua during His ministry. In fact, when Yahoshua said, “If you believed Moses then you would believe Me for Moses wrote of Me.” Yahoshua, testified of Himself through the Word. Do prophets have insight, yes. Do they determine, absolutely not. For interpretation, and testimony have always been established by two or three witnesses. One witness is Scripture and that Scripture is the Torah and the Tanakh. If it isn’t there . . . it isn’t worth the time of day. Is there good writings worth study? Sure, i would hope that even my writing leads others to study Scripture for themselves. 

Yahoshua said, “Do not be called Rabbi, for you have one Rabbi.” The idea he was presenting is Scripture is our teacher. The Holy Spirit, leads us into all truth. i know you believe this as you hold to the idea of the “burning in your bosom.” i want to stress again the test of a Prophets authority. That is do they adhere to what has already been written. We are told not to add to or take away from His Word. If that is truth than there is no room for extra books of Scripture. Devotionals, study guides, thoughts, etc? Sure, of course again this clearly is acceptable as i expressed in my last response. Although, i would point out that perhaps John believed what he was writing was indeed going to be canon. The evidence of this would be his final statement in Revelation. “If anyone adds to the prophecy of this book, Elohim will add to him the plaques written herein. Likewise if anyone takes away from the prophecy written in this book, Elohim will take from him their part of the tree of life.” (Revelation 22:18) A pretty scary warning if you ask me. 

This warning written by John isn’t a stand alone passage. He is simply repeating from the Torah and the portion for the Tanakh called the wisdom books. Deuteronomy 4:2 and 12:32 Here Moses instructs the Israelites not to add to or take from the commands of Elohim. Proverbs 30:5-6 tell us, “Every Word of Elohim is pure and flawless, acting as a shield to anyone who takes refuge in it and trust in Him. Do not add to His Word lest He rebuke you and you be found a liar.” Jeremiah writes in 6:16 – “Ask for the ancient paths: ‘where is the good way?’ Then walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But they say, ‘we will not walk in it!’” Later in 8:8 he writes, “How can you say, ‘we are wise, and the Torah of YHWH is with us,’ when in fact the lying pen of the scribes has produced a deception?’” 

The entirety of Jeremiah’s writings are to call back the people of Elohim to the ways instructed. This was Messiah’s message as well. The sermon on the mount is a call to Torah. He begins with the call to walking in it wholly and holy as intended since it was given. Messiah walked in Torah. He did so without error or His walk would not have been blameless and therefore His sacrifice insufficient, worthless even. Paul tells us, “imitate me as I imitate Messiah.” 

Matthew 5:17-20 – “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Torah or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish it but to bring its fullness. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot , will pass from the Torah until all is accomplished. Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the Kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of heaven.”

Has heaven and earth passed away? Has Revelation 21 already been fulfilled? If the answer to that is yes, than everything i have said and am about to say is wrong. If the answer is no, which i believe to be the right answer. Everything i have said, and will say, should at the very least, be considered. There is not one thing within the sermon on the mount that cannot be found within the Torah. The difference is it is given in practice. This is how you walk it out. Not in man made traditions and extra laws which the Scribes and Pharisees were guilty of. This is the point of our righteousness exceeding theirs. It was because they honored Elohim with their mouths but their hearts were far from Him. They read from the Torah but they taught from oral traditions. 

Jeremiah puts it this way – “For from the least to the greatest of them, everyone is greedy for unjust gain; and from the prophet to priest, everyone deals falsely. They have healed the wound of my people lightly, saying, ‘Peace, peace,’ when there is not peace. Were they ashamed when they committed abominations? No, they were not at all ashamed; they did not know how to blush. Therefore they shall fall among those who fall; at the time that I punish them, they shall be overthrown,’ says YHWH.” Jeremiah 6:13-15

Yahoshua later in Matthew says this: “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger. They do all their deeds to be seen by others.” Matthew 23:2-5

The seat of Moses is where the Torah was read from in the Synagogue. This is why they were instructed to do whatever they tell you, as they were instructing them in Torah. It was their practices and their self-righteousness that was being rebuked by Yahoshua. The fruit of their lives was success. They were sitting in the seats of authority, a counsel to the emperor of Rome even, to a certain extent. One could say the fruit of their lives were good on the outside. Which again is what Yahoshua was pointing out if we had continued to read Matthew 23. However, we understand the fruit we are to be judged by is that of the spirit – for we will be judged by the acts of the flesh. These two stand in contrast to one another. So those who walk in the Way will exhibit the fruit of the Spirit. Of which we will be able to tell who is and who isn’t walking in the Torah.

We know that Yahoshua was not talking about the Torah being a heavy burden because we read, “For this is the love of Elohim, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.” 1 John 5:3. Also in Deuteronomy 30:11 we read, “For this commandment that I command you today is not too hard for you, neither is it far off.” This was written after Moses wrote the covenant renewal in Moab in the previous Chapters. We also read throughout Scripture that the Torah is perfect. Psalm 19:7 “The Torah of YHWH is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of YHWH is sure, making wise the simple…” Romans 7:12 says, ‘So the Torah is holy, and the commandment is holy and righteous and good.”

Paul draws the comparison for us in Galatians of which he also expounds on in his letter to the Ephesians. That the flesh and the spirit are at war within us. The flesh is deceptive, the spirit is longing. As all of creation longs to be redeemed. So how will we know what are the signs or the fruit of the Spirit? “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Messiah Yahoshua have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” Galatians 5:23-24. 

The Gospel message that Yahoshua has brought is the braking of the yoke of the Rabbinic tradition. As well the need for atoning sacrifice, and the temple role of the Levitical Priesthood. Although that role will one day be reinstated for the sacrifice of offering. When one understands the fullness and reason for the sacrificial system and the role of the priest. It becomes clear that it has a designated purpose. Of which for the time being is not necessary or even able to occur. Knowing this before hand, is a major reason for Yahoshua’s death and subsequent resurrection. He became the Atonement the exchange in order that our sins may be forgiven. Paul’s major focus and that of the disciples was spreading the good news. What good news? The once and for all atoning sacrifice of the Messiah. (Another topic all together).

Moving on. i have not yet read all of 3 Nephi. However, i do find it interesting. a good portion of what i have read thus far is simply a reiteration. And that of what we already have written in Scripture. Making it interesting but more historical, this is what was taught to them from the Scriptures themselves. For example 3 Nephi 14:21-23 says: “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of heaven; but he that doth the will of the Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day; Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name, and in thy name have cast out devils, and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them: I never knew you; depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

What is the will of the Father? Did He not instruct us to follow His Torah? And interestingly the word here being translated “iniquity” is also rendered “lawlessness”. We would both agree that the reference is sin. However, the word being translated is better defined “being outside of Torah.” Essentially Yahoshua is saying, “. . . ye that work Torahlessness” John writes about what sin is and how to define it. 1 John 3:4 – “Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness.” Again the word here for lawlessness is Torahlessness, sin is Torahlessness. The Torah is defined also as being in the light and out side of Torah as darkness. Understanding this Hebraic idiom we can see that “You once were in darkness, but now are of the light.” Is best understood, “you were once outside of Torah and now have come into Torah.” 

This seems a good stopping point. i wish you both a blessed week as we study and grow in maturity together. 

Keep Reading – Part Four, 4th Email Response

cj

Testing Modern Prophets: A Scriptural Approach

Testing Modern Prophets: A Scriptural Approach

An on going email conversation with two Mormon Missionaries. Part 2.

Good Day, 

i want you to know that much prayer and thought go into my responses. As i am sure yours do as well. There is however something to be said of mourning that is important. This may not directly apply to you. As i don’t know if either of you were directly affected by the events in Michigan personally. However, we read of the importance of grieving throughout Scripture. As well, science has proven the process is good for body, mind and soul. Yahoshua said, “Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted.” Yahoshua, himself mourned and wept over friends and humanity. Now enough of that. As i believe we are not arguing this point but simply stating ideas each of us hold to be true. It is good to mourn.

i would raise the question that i am sure you have gotten before. That is to the point of eternal marriage. This will also tie into our later discussion on prophets. 

Yahoshua, confronted on marriage said, “Yahoshua answered them, ’The reason you go astray is that you are ignorant both of the Tanahk and of the power of Elohim. For in the resurrection, neither men nor women will marry; rather, they will be like angels in heaven.’” (Matthew 22:29-30) How do you interpret this statement by Yahoshua?

On the question of Prophets being around now. Certainly, it is within the power of Elohim to call Prophets in our modern day. As He calls Pastors, and Teachers alike. The question isn’t whether Prophets are called but rather how one is determined to be a true prophet of Elohim. Many will say that the Election of such positions by congregants of a particular denomination is sufficient. That it reveals the Will of Elohim. And certainly there is a case to be made here. The example of the election of Matthias in the book of Acts to replace Judas. (Acts 1:16-26) As they casted lots and it fell upon him. Of course they had some prerequisites that each man had to meet, like a job interview. Yet still this is the only time Matthias is mentioned. Later, Saul, would be called as an Apostle and is credited with writing half of the ‘New’ Testament. 

Is election by man a sign enough of a Elohim’s calling? No i don’t believe so. For Scripture provides tests for us on determining not only prophets but teachers as well. We are called to test everything. The Berean’s, also found in the book of Acts (Acts 17:10-12) are called noble for their pursuit of truth. They received with eagerness the word of the Apostles. Then went and study the Tanakh to see if what was being taught was truth. If it cannot be found in Scripture then no amount of feelings should persuade one to void Scripture. Again as we stated Elohim is the same yesterday, today, and forever. 

So how does one test the sayings of men who claim to be Prophets of Elohim? By testing everything: 

If they bring a different Gospel, they are not of Elohim. (2 Corinthians 11:3-4). Whether that message is brought by man or angel. If it diverges from the Tanakh it is to be ignored, accursed even. (Galatians 1:8-10) For even Satan masquerades as an angel of light. (2 Corinthians 11:13-15)The Torah tells us of prophets whose prophecy’s do not come to pass. (Deuteronomy 18:20-22)
In light of these passages what tests can we give to men who claim to speak for Elohim?       As to not repeat myself or belabor a point. i will just refer you back to the passage in 2 Timothy 3 from my previous response to you. (See previous post, Navigating Belonging).

Do they preach honoring the Sabbath Day as the 4th commandment states? 
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to YHWH your Elohim. On it you shall not do any work, you, or your son, or your daughter, your male servant, or your female servant, or your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates. For in six days YHWH made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore YHWH blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.” Exodus 20:8-11

“Surely My Sabbaths you shall keep… for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations, that you may know that I am YHWH who sanctifies you.” (Exodus 31:13). Do they preach honoring the Feast Days as the Torah teaches?        Here i would just refer you to Leviticus 23 in which the Feasts are given in detail. As well, that it is instructed the foreigner within their gates also celebrate them. This is in line with Romans 11 which teaches us that the Gentiles are grafted into Israel. We do not replace them we become one with them.

Do they preach that the gentiles are grafted into Israel and do not replace them?       
Here again as stated in the previous question on the relevance of the Feast Days. Romans 11 is quite clear that we are grafted in. It is in this that we become a light to Israel. In order to draw them back into covenant with Elohim through the Messiah Yahoshua.

Do they preach honoring the Torah in the fullness presented by Yahoshua? 
In Matthew 5 Yahoshua states, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Torah or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Torah until all is accomplished. Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:17-19). The word FULFILL does not mean to do away with but rather to bring clarity. A fuller understanding of . . . in Hebrews we read that the New Covenant is not new like a new pair of shoes but new like the New Moon each cycle. Same moon, new emphasis. The Torah went from written on tablets to being written on our hearts and our minds. 

In conclusion anyone, prophet or teacher, teaching anything contrary to the Torah. These are not of Elohim. Therefore, are not to be feared nor listened to but rather cast out from among the Ekklesia. The heart is deceptive and signs are fleeting. He who believes by faith, to him it is counted unto righteousness. Yahoshua, warned against seeking signs, His word is sufficient. 

Clearly i don’t have all the answers, nor do i have full understanding. However, what i do have is sufficient for teaching, rebuking, correction, and training in righteousness. It is sufficient to complete, and to equip for every good work. As Timothy we are called to continue in what we have learned and have firmly believed. Knowing from whom we have learned it . . . Yahoshua the Word made flesh, He is the Way the Truth and the Life. The Torah is known as the Way, the Path, and Instruction. It is known as the Truth, Your Word is Truth. It is known as the Life, for man shall not live by bread alone but by every Word of Elohim. We do not need new revelation, we simply need to understand the sacred writings already provided to us.

It does bring me joy that you found something worthy of reflection in my book. Thank you for the kind words and the connection to your understanding of things. We are all on a journey of faith and we are all at different points of that journey. Yet, the key to that journey remains the same. We are to seek with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, Yahoshua through His Word.

Shema Israel! Shema means to listen and obey. It is a declaration and a prayer. i pray every morning, Shema! YHWH our Elohim is ONE Elohim, love Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And the Words commanded in Scripture shall be taught diligently to our children. They are to be talked about in our houses, and as we walk on the way. When we lie down and when we rise. We are to bind them on our hearts and on our minds and write them on the door posts of our houses. (Deuteronomy 6:4-9) 
This is the same message over and over, meditate on the Word day and night. It is the Word that confirms to us truth. If it does not align with Torah then it is rubbish. 

Keep Reading, Part Three, 3rd Email Response

This is the Way of the Rabbi,
You are loved,
cj

Navigating Belonging: My Journey with Faith and Identity

Navigating Belonging: My Journey with Faith and Identity
Daily writing prompt
Tell us about a time when you felt out of place.
View all responses

I feel out of place pretty much everywhere I go. The reality is I don’t know how to fit in! What does it look like? I try to be me no matter what is going on. Some would say that is boring and predictable, maybe. Yet, still, it is where I am most comfortable. Do I have my moments, surely I do. And, I regret them every single time. I try to learn from those experiences and hopefully not repeat them again. However, with all that, what really makes me feel out of place is my heartbeat.

I have a growing desire to live for Yahoshua, as He lived. Recently, I sat down with a couple of Mormon Missionaries. They had shown up at my door one evening that I was feeling particularly vulnerable for someone to talk to. This doesn’t happen often as I am a hermit by nature. A dwelling in the cleft of a rock or a tiny home in Alaska. All I would need is some food, a wood burning stove, some books and a typewriter. Leave me alone and GET OFF MY LAWN! Regardless, I invited them back to discuss faith and life.

Which they of course gladly accepted, although they pushed for it more than I offered. When they arrived I felt guilty as my intention was to put the smack down on their faith. You see, admittedly, at times I feel superior in knowledge. At other times I feel as if I know nothing at all. This is a big reason for feeling out of place everywhere I go. In the end, after they arrived and were seated, I confessed to them my previous intention. I gave them the history of my life. I then asked them where they were from and we parted ways with the idea of further communication via email.

The following is the my latest response to them regarding a question of differences. I am sharing it here to express my feelings of being out of place. Even in my journey of faith, I feel homeless. Even still I hope that this will inspire you to read, research, and explore. The idea of what is to walk, the way of the Rabbi.

Greetings Friends.
To the question of differences between the 7th Day Adventists and Hebrew Roots. i must before i dive into this answer state that i am neither but somewhere in-between. 7th Day as well as most of modern Christianity, separate Elohim’s laws into categories. Whether it be the Moral Law, Ceremonial Law, or the Civil Law. However, they differ from modern Christianity. They hold that all 10 commandments, which fall under the category of Moral Law, are to be observed. Whereas modern Christianity moves the observance of the 7th Day Sabbath to the Lord’s Day, 8th Day Sabbath, Head of the Week – Head of the Church, however, one might define their rebellion. 

7th Day’ers also adhere to the dietary law, some in fact, hearkening back to Genesis and being vegetarians. However this is where the separation begins with the Hebrew Roots movement. The idea being found throughout scripture that the law applies to both the Hebrew and the foreigner living among them. In Romans it says that the Gentile is grafted into Israel. The Covenants made with Israel are “Forever.” Therefore, one simply concludes that the gentile is to learn the way of the Hebrew. This of course in a nutshell, isn’t wrong in its understanding but begins to vary in its application. 

The moniker i choose to go by is Messianic, however this too is problematic at best. The original followers of Yahoshua were of course Talmidim, which is where we today get Disciples, they were students. The classification given to them early on was, “Followers of the Way.” Simply, based on the very words of Yahoshua, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, no one comes to the Father except through Me.” Of course we read in Acts that eventually they became known as Christians. Which if broken down means, little Christs. Why? Because they emulated or imitated Yahoshua so closely in an attempt to shame them, Christian, was thrown around like a slur. 

But i am sure you don’t need a history lesson. The ultimate desire of the Hebrew Roots movement is to be like those early Christians. These Christians so closely imitated Yahoshua that they were called, little Christ (in the Greek of course). Where i differ with the Hebrew Roots movement is they have gone back to Rabbinic tradition and well. If we are being intellectually honest, Yahoshua had a BIG problem with mans rabbinic tradition. They used it to supersede the Torah and the Prophets. Which is what Yahoshua kept pointing out to the Pharisees and the Scribes. This of course ruffled feathers. Do you like to be called wrong on something you have believed to be true for your entire life? Perhaps not even to any fault of your own but simply what you have been taught? This is what Paul struggled with and even writes about in his letters.

You see this is where i was and if i am being honest still am. As i learn more every day. i believed that i had it all figured out. i also thought the way that i was taught was superior to others. We had the lock on truth. When in reality we were guilty of exactly the same thing the Scribes and the Pharisees were guilty of . . . mans tradition over the very WORD of YHWH. What are we called to do? How are we called to do it? How can we do some of these things given we are not in the Holy Land? What is important? What is useless? 

In the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon writes, “When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear Elohim and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man. For Elohim will bring every deed into judgment, along with every hidden thing, whether good or evil.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14) Micah writes, “He has shown you oh man what is good and what does Adonai require of you. To do justly, love mercy, and to walk humbly with your Elohim.” (Micah 6:8) Paul tells Timothy, “All Scripture is breathed out by Elohim and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of Elohim may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16) When Paul wrote those words somewhere around 66 AD (CE) the “New” Testament had not been compiled. Paul was referring to the Tanakh. He was saying all the information you need to teach the followers of the Way is this . . . the Torah and Tanakh. This scripture everyone loves to quote, but fail to recognize the implication. Just before this Paul writes, “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Messiah Yahoshua.”

Do you hear what Paul was saying? All we need to know is found in the Torah, and the Prophets. Do i love the writings of the Apostles? Of course, I do! They are explanations of how to live out this lifestyle. Known to them as “The Way” this is the way to life. Do i believe they were inspired by Elohim to write them, without a doubt. Do i thing they thought their writings would one day supersede those of the Tanakh? Heaven forbid! Without question they did not hold this view. In every letter they quote from the pages of the Torah and from the Prophets. This is where the Way is found. Not in man, not in his traditions (not that all of mans traditions are bad only when held in place of or above the WORD of Elohim). 

Satan has been creeping in since the garden, attempting to lead men astray, even as recorded in 3 Nephi; “Now the cause of this iniquity of the people was this–Satan had great power, unto the stirring up of the people to do all manner of iniquity, and to the puffing them up with pride tempting them to seek for power, and authority, and riches, and vain things of the world.” (3 Nephi 6:15). If truth never changes, and Elohim is Truth, and if the Word points to the Torah and the Prophets; If John the Baptist declared, “Behold the Lamb of Elohim!” And John writes, “The WORD became flesh. . .” should we not then be more concerned with this Truth over anything else man has produced even if led by Elohim to write? Since, He cannot contradict Himself. Rather, in the light of the Tanakh, read the Apostles and other writings from inspired men, even my own? 

What are your thoughts? I would love to hear them. . .

This is the way of the Rabbi,
You are loved,
cj

Yahoshua: The Biblical Model for Living Faithfully

Yahoshua: The Biblical Model for Living Faithfully

If Yahoshua did it, and Paul says, “Imitate me as I imitate Messiah,” what then? What is the excuse to do anything else? The idiom, “May you walk in the dust of your Rabbi.” Means to become like him, that you emulate him, in every way. May you be so close to him that he rubs off on you.

Yahoshua kept the Sabbath. (Matthew 12:1-8)
“At this time Yahoshua went through the grain fields on the Sabbath. His disciples were hungry, and they began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. But when the Pharisees saw it, they questioned Yahoshua. “Look, why do Your disciples do what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?” From here most skip the full answer and focus only on Yahoshua’s final statement. “For the Son of Man is Master of the Sabbath.” I chose this particular instance of Yahoshua’s Sabbath keeping for a few reasons.

First, what seems to get ignored, is that the accusation was against Yahoshua’s disciples, and not Yahoshua Himself. Second, as He responded to Satan in the wilderness so He responded to the Pharisees. “Have you not read?” Is basically the same as “It is written.” The Pharisees should have known better than to put man’s tradition over Scripture. Here Yahoshua gives two examples from the Scriptures.

Yahoshua, which remember means, Yah’s Salvation or Yah is Salvation. Here at the end of this exchange He quotes from Hosea which the name means, ‘deliverer’. “For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of Elohim rather than burnt offerings.” He says, “Had you known the meaning of this Scripture you would not have condemned the guiltless.” All this relates around the idea that Yahoshua, the Living Word of Elohim was with them. And the Pharisees were to wrapped up in their oral tradition to see the Words popping of the parchment.

Yahoshua’s final statement now makes much more sense in light of the context and cultural significance. “For the Son of Man is Master of the Sabbath.” It is not Him assuming the role of the Sabbath Day. It is not Him profaning the Sabbath Day. For had He done so He would not have been sinless and therefore unable to make atonement for sin. It was simply another declaration of His authority, His position, and His command of Scripture. It was not a license to break the Sabbath. It was not a license to go against the Words written by Moses and the Prophets. He wasn’t placing Himself over the Word, He IS THE WORD made flesh, as John describes.

Yahoshua kept the Feast Days.
“Halfway through the Feast of Booths, Yahoshua went up to the temple and started to teach.  Astonished, the Jewish leaders asked, ‘He’s never been taught! How has he mastered the Torah?’” (John 7:14-15).
“The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Yahoshua was coming to Jerusalem.” (John 12:12).
Here we see in John that Yahoshua clearly partook in the Feasts. There is even mention of Him being present for the Festival of Dedication. Which commemorates the re-dedication of the Temple or as we know it today, Hanukkah.
“Three times a year every male among you must appear before the presence of Adonai your Elohim. In the location He will select. At the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Booths.” (Deuteronomy 16:16).
Elohim, is clear about the celebration of His Feast Days. In fact had Yahoshua not celebrated them He would have been in opposition to the Word of Elohim. But, that is impossible because, He is the Word made flesh and He was sinless. Don’t you want to celebrate what Yahoshua celebrated?

Yahoshua forgave.
A recent global broadcast of a memorial service highlighted an important fact. It mentioned that Yahoshua forgave those who put Him to death. “Father, forgive them for they don’t know what they are doing.” Forgiveness is the most difficult calling. In some instances it seems unfathomable to do so. Yet, our Messiah, who was beaten beyond recognition, while breathing His last, did so. There is nothing that equals the torture of Messiah. “Father, forgive them.” I read these words and ask myself, would I be able to do the same?

Yahoshua kept the Commandments. (Matthew 5:17-20)
“Don’t think that I have come to abolish the Torah or the Prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Yes indeed! I tell you that until heaven and earth pass away, not even a yud will disappear from the Torah. A stroke will stay as well. — Not until everything that must happen has happened. Anyone who disobeys the least of these commandments will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. This includes those who teach others to do so. But whoever obeys them and so teaches will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. Your righteousness must be far greater than that of the Torah-teachers and Pharisees. Only then will you certainly enter the Kingdom of Heaven!”

First, let’s talk about the word here, fulfill. The word has also been translated as complete. Both are poor choices. Even in the Strong’s Concordance which is popular among western Christians for defining words has the full definition.

G4137 πληρόω – to make full, to fill up, i.e. to fill to the full to cause to abound, to furnish or supply liberally.
to fulfill, i.e. to cause God’s will (as made known in the law) to be obeyed as it should be, and God’s promises (given through the prophets) to receive fulfillment –

Second, the idea of being more righteous than the teachers of Torah and Pharisees. The Scribes and the Pharisees that Yahoshua is referring to were more concerned about the oral traditions. They were self-righteous within their traditions. Yahoshua’s entire ministry was pointing out the right way to live out the commandments of Elohim. He did not slack in any of them. In fact, He brought clearer understanding to them. He said, “If you love Me, you will keep my commands“. Yahoshua is the Word made flesh, He is the walking Torah scroll. Don’t you want to love Him in a way He recognizes?

Yahoshua is the Word made flesh.
“In the beginning was the Word,
    and the Word was with Elohim,
and the Word was Elohim.
    He was with Elohim in the beginning.”
(John 1:1-2)

“The Word became flesh
    and made His home among us.
We have seen his glory,
    glory like that of a Father’s only Son,
        full of grace and truth.”
(John 1:14)

The Word, what was the Word being referenced here by John? Well, when it was written there was not a collection of books known as the ‘New Testament.’ Therefore, we can conclude that the Word being referred to is the Torah, perhaps even the Tanakh. That is Genesis to Deuteronomy, or through Malachi. If Yahoshua is the Word who came ‘to cause Elohim’s Word to be obeyed as it should be.’ Shouldn’t we want to live in obedience to the Word?

Yahoshua is Yah’s Salvation.
Yahoshua, quoting Isaiah in Matthew says, “‘These people honor me with their lips. But their hearts are far away from Me. Their worship of Me is useless, because they teach man-made rules as if they were doctrines.’” How can we say we know someone while using a name that has been poorly transliterated. Poorly, I say, because it is through the Greek and has been altered with the introduction of the letter ‘J’. Just say the name Jesus and then say the name Yahoshua. Do they even sound the same? We’re not talking about the name William and Bill, we are talking about Yah’s Salvation. The Fathers name within the Son’s name proclaiming Salvation to all who call on Him!

Moving on, when the angel Gabriel came to Joseph, he didn’t say name the boy Jesus. He actually said, name the boy Yahoshua. To really get the significance here we need to go back further. Moses, by Elohim’s instruction, appointed Joshua as his successor. However, Joshua wasn’t always Joshua, his name was Hoshea, which means, salvation. If you didn’t already know, names in the Scriptures are important. They have meaning, and purpose, and help drive the narrative of Elohim’s story.

Moses, changes Hoshea to Yahoshua, (Numbers 13:16) or in English, Joshua, which means YAH is SALVATION. Joshua was going to lead Israel into the promise land but it was through YAH (Yahweh). The true meaning of the name Jesus is simply Salvation, like the name Hoshea. Some good pastors and teachers who study have added to the meaning of Jesus, God-Saves or God is Salvation. It’s at least a step in the right direction but why the change? Compromise? We know the real name and its meaning is glorious. Yahoshua, the only begotten Son of Elohim, came to reconcile us to the Father. Through His blood, we are brought into the promise land. Yah truly is salvation. “I and My Father are ONE.” (John 10:30). Wouldn’t you want to call your best friend by their actual name? Shouldn’t we consider calling the Savior of the World by His given name?

Let’s wrap it up.
Simply put we can say we love Yahoshua. We can say we love the Father. We can say we want the Holy Spirit. However, as Yahoshua said, “These people honor Me with their lips but their hearts are far from Me.” He said this because there needs to be genuine heart change. There needs to be sincerity. There needs to be a dying to ourselves and a putting on of the new self. “If you love Me . . .” Let us walk in the dust of the Rabbi.

This is the way of the Rabbi,
You are loved,
cj

From Milk to Solid Food: Deepening Your Faith

From Milk to Solid Food: Deepening Your Faith

“Always learning but never coming to the knowledge of the Truth.” Is this what i have become? Heaven forbid! But i can’t help but wonder. At what point does someone put down the spoon for the fork? As Paul writes, “I gave you milk, not solid food, because you were not yet ready for it. But you aren’t ready for it now either!” This is a rebuke of the Corinthians who claimed themselves to be followers of the Way.

When I train new employees, I start them with the basics. I don’t overwhelm them with every detail of the job. In fact some aspects of the job are better learned by doing. Simply putting into practice what is desired or expected is often the best teacher. Trial and error. When I served in the military it was the same way. They trained us a little at a time. They didn’t start us off on a twenty-mile road march in full gear. They started us on a two-mile road march with empty rucksacks. They built us up gradually. Over time, we reached a significant milestone. At the end of training, we handled twenty miles in full gear. Had they left us in sneakers and empty rucks throughout our training, we would not have been prepared. We wouldn’t have been ready in the end.

This is what the Modern Christian Church has done. They look at one verse and say, “see this is all we need to do.” When in reality the message of the whole Word of Elohim is learn and grow, learn and grow. For example, many point to Acts and say look the Jerusalem council said, “XYZ”. Specifically:
“Therefore my judgment is that we should not trouble those of the Gentiles who turn to Elohim. But we should write to them to abstain from the things polluted by idols. They should also abstain from sexual immorality. Additionally, they should avoid what has been strangled and from blood.” This is where they will stop. However, it continues as to why. “For from ancient generations, Moses has had those in every city who proclaim him. He is read every Sabbath in the synagogues.” Can you see it, they were saying here is the basics. This will get you started. Now, learn and grow, by hearing the Word proclaimed in the synagogue every Sabbath.

Two take away items here. First, the Word, we need it in order to grow. Second, every Sabbath, it was the appointed time. Today, we have access to the Word every where we go on our phones. We don’t need to wait until the Sabbath to hear it read to us. Yet still, we are to gather and as we can read throughout Acts specifically, they gathered on the Sabbath.

In training, whether it is a new employee or a soldier, the goal is to replicate yourself. In making disciples as we are commanded to do the goal is the same. “Therefore, go and make people from all nations into disciples. Immersing them into the reality of the Father, the Son and the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit). Teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember! I will be with you always, yes, even until the end of the age.” Do you see the charge before us? It isn’t to sit stagnant in a pew collecting dust like the Bible on the coffee table. We are to be about His work. Work isn’t a bad word. It is a command.

Paul admonishes us to be like him as he imitates Messiah. “Imitate me as I imitate Messiah.” To walk like the Teacher. This is the Way of the Rabbi. The very idea of the Way, the Truth, and the Life, is answering the call to obey. “If you love Me, obey My commandments.” Yahoshua, also ask, “Why do you call Me Adonai, Adonai, and not do what I command?”

In learning and growing as a disciple we take ground, gain knowledge and wisdom. We don’t stop there we are to examine ourselves and continue to learn and grow. We are told to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. “My dear friends, you have always obeyed when I was with you. It is even more important to obey now. You must do this even when I am away from you. Keep working out your deliverance with fear and trembling. For Elohim is the one working among you both the willing and the working for what pleases Him.” In this same letter to the Philippians Paul writes this challenge.

“It is not that I have already obtained it or already reached the goal. No, I keep pursuing it. This in the hope of taking hold of that for which the Messiah Yahoshua took hold of me. Brothers, I, for my part, do not think of myself as having yet gotten hold of it. But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind me and straining forward toward what lies ahead. I keep pursuing the goal. In order to win the prize offered by Elohim’s upward calling in the Messiah Yahoshua. Therefore, as many of us as are mature, let us keep paying attention to this. And if you are differently minded about anything, Elohim will also reveal this to you. Only let our conduct fit the level we have already reached. Brothers, join in imitating me. Also, pay attention to those who live according to the pattern we have set for you.”

Will you continue to sip the cup of milk? Or will you take up the fork and knife and cut into the steak? Isaiah said, “To whom will He teach knowledge, and to whom will He explain the message? Those who are weaned from the milk, those taken from the breast. For it is precept upon precept, line upon line, truth upon truth, here a little there a little.” (Isaiah 28:9-10) – Today, and this week, ask yourself, what does this mean? It is time to take hold of the calling, of which you have been called, in Messiah Yahoshua.

This is the Way of the Rabbi,
You are loved,
cj

Lessons from My Grandfather on Discernment

Lessons from My Grandfather on Discernment
Daily writing prompt
Share a lesson you wish you had learned earlier in life.
View all responses

When I was younger in ministry, just starting out. my grandfather, who was an ordained minister, served as a Conference Superintendent for his denomination. He also served as the Director of Interracial Evangelism and worked with an inner city school in Shreveport Louisiana. Writer of many books and editor of a once greatly sought after ministry magazine, ‘The Sermon Builder.’ Said to me, “Don’t ever think that you know everything, so that you remain teachable. However, know the Word, so that you can discern Truth from lies.”

I held to that lesson from my grandpa. I taught on it. Used it in many a sermon illustration. I would have told you that I was living that advice. Yet, I was more interested in what others had to say about the Word than the Word itself. Which didn’t allow for true discernment. Oh, I knew chapter and verse just fine. But I leaned more on voices I thought were in my circle of influence and therefore must be right, right?

I lacked the Truth of the Word, to discern properly. I simply regurgitated what I was fed. My awakening to the wholeness of Scripture was stirring for years. It started to gain traction however after hearing the testimony of an Africa Region, Missionary. It was Fall. He talked about his first time in America. He saw all the pumpkins on the porches of ‘Christian’ homes. He expressed the confusion and sorrow of his heart in that moment. “Do Americans not know the symbolism of a lit gourd?” My heart was stirred and I turned to the pages of Scripture. We are called to be set apart, not to assimilate. We are not to Worship as the pagans do.

I put down books that repeated what I had been told is true. I set aside opinions and doctrines of men. I picked up the Word and began to read, and read, and read. I recalled the words of wisdom from my grandfather. My heart was broken for the many wasted years. These were years filled with misunderstandings, poor translations, and Christian hypocrisy.

I felt like I had grasped my grandfathers wisdom. That I had learned that lesson. Unfortunately, I had not. I missed the most important part of his wisdom, “Know the WORD, so that you can discern TRUTH from LIES.” I am now a student of the Word, not of man. My eyes are open. I have taken up the cause. I do not wish to enter arguments. Instead, I want to stir desires within others to read, and read, and read the WORD. In doing so, they can gain TRUTH, so others can discern the Way of the Rabbi. Had I learned this lesson earlier in ministry, perhaps I could have avoided the many pitfalls I have found myself in.

“But you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, recalling the people from whom you learned it; and recalling too how from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which can give you the wisdom that leads to deliverance through trusting in Yahoshua the Messiah. All Scripture is breathed by Elohim and is valuable for teaching the truth, convicting of sin, correcting faults and training in right living; thus anyone who belongs to Elohim may be fully equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Why Yahoshua’s Name Matters: A Cultural Perspective

Why Yahoshua’s Name Matters: A Cultural Perspective

“Now, Adonai, according to Your word, Your servant is at peace as You let him go; for I have seen with my own eyes Your Yahoshua, which you prepared in the presence of all peoples – a light that will bring revelation to the Gentiles and glory to Your people Israel.” (Luke 2:29-32)

Open up another common translation. In verse 30, it will read, “For I have seen with my own eyes Your salvation.” Verse 33 says: “Yahoshua’s father and mother were marveling at the things Simeon was saying about Him.” i know that i am beating a drum here but how sweet a name is Yahoshua? The name means salvation which is why most translations render it so. Yet I can’t help but wonder. What have we lost by rendering such a name outside of its proper culture and context?

This double meaning is fitting for there is Salvation in no one else but Yahoshua. The very meaning of His name. Imagine, you meet a man and someone tells you his name is John. He happens to be Hispanic. You go days calling him John. No one corrects you. Therefore, there is no reason to think you are wrong. Time goes by and you have a chance to meet him in person. He reaches out his hand and introduces himself. “Hi my name is Juan and I am from Guadalajara Mexico.” You respond cordially, “Hello John, it’s nice to meet you. I am Ignoramus from America.

Later in your room someone tells you that the man you met is named Juan. You being inquisitive, although daft, say, “I thought his name was John?” “Oh surely it is John in English but his given name is Juan. He is after all Hispanic and from Mexico.” The person responds. You shrug your shoulders. “Oh well, John is easier to say and I have been calling him John so. Not to mention everyone I know also calls him John so it can’t be wrong. He’s in America now. I am sure he understands”

Why, should be the question asked, has history tried so hard to scrub the Jewishness of Yahoshua? The ‘Church’ is as guilty as all historians. The fact that we don’t want to know or even explore our Messiah’s Hebraic upbringing is puzzling. The church is content to understand Israel’s Promised Messiah from a westernized cultural perspective. It limits us and it allows for misinterpretations, misunderstandings, and heresies.

I understand that this can be said for all Biblical names and it’s true. Why not harp on that? In some cases I have. However, the reason I feel more and more conviction about the name of our Messiah is He is our Messiah! Isaiah writes, “For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty El, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” In light of what Isaiah (Yesha’yahu) writes one must wonder if Exodus 20 means anything? “You shall not take the name of Adonai your Elohim in vain, for Adonai will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.”

Yahoshua, quoting Isaiah in Matthew says, “‘These people honor me with their lips. But their hearts are far away from Me. Their worship of Me is useless, because they teach man-made rules as if they were doctrines.’” How can we say we know someone while using a name that has been poorly transliterated. Poorly, I say, because it is through the Greek and has been altered with the introduction of the letter ‘J’. Just say the name Jesus and then say the name Yahoshua. Do they even sound the same? We’re not talking about the name William and Bill, we are talking about Yah’s Salvation. The Fathers name within the Son’s name proclaiming Salvation to all who call on Him!

So what’s in a name? A lot!

This is the Way of the Rabbi,
You are loved,
cj

Transforming Inconveniences into Adventures

Transforming Inconveniences into Adventures

Every morning I get an email from an online news organization. The purpose of the email is to highlight four or five top stories. At the top of the email they put a quote from someone to inspire reflection. This is actually the part of the email i look forward to the most. The other day the quote was from G.K. Chesterton. He said:

“An inconvenience is only an adventure wrongly considered;
an adventure is an inconvenience rightly considered.”

Recently my dad who just turned 83 years old took a train to New York City. Where he experienced an inconvenience with his luggage. i don’t know how baggage on trains work really. The last time i was on a train other than the one that circles Disneyland was many, many moons ago. i might have been 8. Anyway, at one of the stops along the way a lady grabbed my dad’s suitcase. Apparently hers looked very similar, so thinking it was hers she picked it up and exited the train. my dad was completely unaware of this occurring riding on and enjoying the scenery. That is until, he received a phone call. Surprisingly, it was the lady who mistakenly had taken his suitcase. Thankfully my dad had his name and number on the luggage tag. She apologized profusely. She was able to get the suitcase on the next train to Chicago where my dad had a layover. It arrived untouched for the most part before my dad continued his journey, now an adventure to New York.

my dad couldn’t really do anything but hope and wait. However, the lady with my dad’s bag had a task before her. Thankfully trains haven’t advanced much since their inception so they pretty much still work the same. Unlike many of the cumbersome safety protocols now associated with air travel. An unattended bag brought by a passenger on another flight? i don’t think this would have been an easy sell to airport security. Train security on the other-hand, seems right in line with baggage policy. Regardless, the lady seemed to have the situation well in hand. Obviously, living near the train station helped. She got all the way home before the discovery of the mistake. Apparently having some knowledge as to trains and how things work she talked to the right people. She made the appropriate arrangements. Which limited my dad’s inconvenience considerably. Hers on the other-hand, not so much. i wonder if she ever got her bag back since it was never in my dad’s possession he doesn’t know.

They say knowledge is power. It’s true. If you know how things work you can work things out. If you know where to gather information, information can be gathered. Information properly used can inform and educate. Wisdom is rightly using the information you gather, no matter how much or how little. What will you do with the information you gather? What will you do as you read through the posts of The Way of the Rabbi? What questions will you ask? What information will you seek? What knowledge will you put to power?

A young preacher, pastor of a small congregation of new believers was being encouraged by a veteran. There were some changes afoot within the faith. It was being called “new” but it wasn’t fully new. It was known and practiced, but there was a new understanding. There was an example given. There was explanations and clarifications. Still the source did not change immediately, nor should it have, even over time. Sources add, yes, but manuscripts deleted? Never! In a letter to the young preacher, the older, wiser, seasoned and tested instructor wrote the following words.

“But you must continue with the things you have learned and found convincing. You know who taught you. Since childhood you have known the holy scriptures. They help you to be wise in a way that leads to salvation through faith that is in Messiah Yahoshua. Every scripture is inspired by Elohim! It is useful for teaching, for showing mistakes, for correcting, and for training character. So that the person who belongs to Elohim can be equipped to do everything that is good.” (2 Timothy 3:14-17)

Paul was telling Timothy that all his questions had answers. Those answers, were found in his knowledge of the scriptures. Those scriptures were the Tanakh and the Torah. He reminded him that they will help him be wise. Even stated that within the scrolls of his childhood faith he would be led to faith in Messiah Yahoshua. The writings that were collected over time, like, this one to Timothy are great! Even “inspired by Elohim.” When used to supplement and support the Tanakh as Paul encourages, they are masterful. Life springs forth from the pages of the Gospel’s when you understand the culture in which they were written. Understanding and knowledge will be your friend. As you read through the illustration that the covenant went from stones to flesh. From written with a finger, to written in blood.

Nothing new was invented. It is the same. Knowledge leads you to understand that what has changed is associated with the atonement. The process in which one is cleansed. It went from a ritual performed by priests. To one sacrifice by the High Priest Yahoshua in the order of Melchizedek. The atonement kaphar (כָּפַר), closely connected with the word, Kippur (כִּפּוּר), which means to “cover over a wrong”. To תְּמוּרָה (temurah) which means to exchange. The priests could only cover ritual sacrifices. This was a shadow of the exchange coming in Messiah. Due to the Hellenization of the Israelite’s Greek was the language and that is where we get the term, antallagí (ανταλλαγή). We translate it atonement, which isn’t wrong but isn’t the full picture either. Yahoshua took our place, He doesn’t cover our sin, He wipes it away. He took it, exchanging His righteousness for our depravity. He who knew no sin became sin, so that we who were sin could be made whole in Him.

“An inconvenience is only an adventure wrongly considered; an adventure is an inconvenience rightly considered.” Don’t be discouraged by what some perceive to be inconvenient. Rather take on the adventure of knowing Elohim through the fullness of His Word. Build upon the foundational faith you have in Messiah Yahoshua by searching the Tanakh and the Torah. Do this in order to know Him better. Enter into covenant relationship with Yahoshua the living Word of Elohim. The Word says, “Elohim is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” If true, we must realize that what happened 2000 years ago was not new. It was a rebirth and an exchange written in red.

If things got easier like so many believe today every pew in every church would be full. But as Paul tells Timothy earlier in the same letter. “And indeed, all who want to live a life in Elohim, united with the Messiah Yahoshua will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving others and being deceived themselves.” i hope you will explore more here at the way of the Rabbi. Unlock the curiosity to challenge your old way of thinking. Embrace The Way of the Rabbi Yahoshua.

This is the way of the Rabbi,
You are loved,
cj

Discovering the Way of the Rabbi: Insights and Inspiration

Discovering the Way of the Rabbi: Insights and Inspiration

When i began writing this blog back in 2016 my intention was to write short 500 word motivational pieces. Occasionally, they were longer with more teaching and instruction. However, the underlying theme was to be motivational. As time went on teaching and instruction became more of the driving force behind my posts. That is still true to this day. There is however, yet another driving force behind each post and that is to stir a desire. To cause the reader to be like the Berean’s of Acts 17:11. To eagerly listen to the message. Then check the Tanakh to verify if what i have written is true. There is one other aspect i hope to accomplish with these writings. It is intended for those who do not share my faith in Yahoshua. The idea also comes from Acts 17 just a few verse down from eleven. In Acts 17:32-34 it records this:

“When they heard about the resurrection from the dead, some began to ridicule Paul. However, others said, “We’ll hear from you about this again.” At that, Paul left the council. Some people joined him and came to believe, including Dionysius, a member of the council on Mars Hill, a woman named Damaris, and several others.”

Ridicule will come because some people are simply mean spirited. i can’t let that get to me, although, at times i do. i try not to think about them too much. Now, on the other hand, those who want to hear more inspire me. Those who want to follow the Way of the Rabbi also inspire me to write more. Over the years because of my own writing and research i have come to new understandings. i believe differently than i once did. Like many who were under Paul’s teaching. They believed one way, they believed they had it right but then Paul showed them the truth. It caused them to pause, reflect, and adjust their beliefs. Sometimes this is very difficult because we have held beliefs for a long time, a very long time. We couldn’t possibly have been wrong that entire time could we? When faced with this it requires a great deal of prayer and study. One must be willing to ask, is what I am being shown true? Is what I have known been wrong, misquoted, or misinterpreted? No one wants to be wrong, i can assure you of that.

In Psalm 19 the Psalmist writes:
“Adonai’s Torah is perfect,
    reviving one’s very being.
Adonai’s instructions are faithful,
    making naive people wise.
Adonai’s regulations are right,
    gladdening the heart.
Adonai’s commands are pure,
    giving light to the eyes.
 Honoring Adonai is correct,
    lasting forever.
Adonai’s judgments are true.
    All of these are righteous!”

Many have come to believe that the Torah has been done away or was too difficult to maintain. In believing this they must ignore David’s words above. They have to ignore many other passages within the Tanakh as well. We cannot pick and choose what we find acceptable and discard what we find difficult. The Torah, has been translated Law within the majority of biblical translations. However, this is a terrible rendering. For the Torah as David describes is instructions, it is regulations, it is commands, it is judgments. It is also to be honored, and kept. For in doing so it brings revival, wisdom, gladness, light, and truth, that lasts forever.

David wraps up this Psalm by writing these words. “May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be acceptable in your presence. For You Adonai, are my Rock and Redeemer.” He ends this Psalm about the goodness of Torah with a request. A verse most people memorize today, for it is also their hearts desire. Yet they don’t grasp the enormity of his words, that they are wrapped around Torah. The very written Word of Elohim. May you read these posts, may they grab your heart and your attention. May they lead you to seek the Way of the Rabbi. May you be drawn into a love for the Torah and the Tanakh. May you understand that the Apostles used the Torah as a foundation in their writings. That they shared David’s heart, as revealed in this Psalm.

This was also Paul’s desire to a young preacher known as Timothy. (2 Timothy 3:14-17).
“But you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, recalling the people from whom you learned it; 15 and recalling too how from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which can give you the wisdom that leads to deliverance through trusting in Yahoshua the Messiah. 16 All Scripture is Elohim-breathed and is valuable for teaching the truth, convicting of sin, correcting faults and training in right living; 17 thus anyone who belongs to Elohim may be fully equipped for every good work.” We need to be more diligent in our study of the Tanakh. We should focus specifically on the Torah, taking the advice of Paul.

This is the Way of the Rabbi,
You are loved,
cj

The Significance of Sabbath Observance Today

The Significance of Sabbath Observance Today

i have thought about this series for some time. How do i share my understanding in a way that leads you, the reader, into curiosity? To inspire a deeper look into Scripture. To light a fire within you to be like the people of Berea. Who received with joy, the words being taught to them. But then went and searched the Scriptures to see whether or not it was true. There are plenty of posts you can go over in which i will have touched on these ideas presented here. Although, not so succinctly as i will try in this series of posts. i will present the options and then give my ‘why’s’ trying to be fair to both sides in the end. These are the topics i will present over the next few days. Yahoshua or Jesus (see post); Rabbi or Teacher (see post); Adonai Elohim or Lord God (see post); Feast Days or Holidays (see post); Sabbath or Sunday (Current Post). It has been my goal to persuade you to begin to evaluate your ‘why’s’. To ask the question of yourself, “Am I using mans justification or Elohim’s Word, to determine my beliefs?” Let’s wrap this series up.

Sabbath or Sunday:
In my last post i went over the idea of Feast Days or Holidays. Presenting the idea of the significance of Elohim’s Feasts. In the description of the Feast Days in Leviticus you will find the Sabbath Day. In fact it leads the way. Leviticus 23 begins — Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Speak to the Israelite’s and say to them, ‘These are My appointed feasts, the feasts of Yahweh that you are to proclaim as sacred assemblies. For six days work may be done, but the seventh day is a Sabbath of complete rest, a day of sacred assembly. You must not do any work; wherever you live, it is a Sabbath to Yahweh.

The Sabbath wasn’t new to Israel. The Creator of the Universe in the beginning said, “Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. And by the seventh day Elohim had finished the work He had been doing. So on that day He rested from all His work. Then Elohim blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because on that day He rested from all the work of creation that He had accomplished.” From the beginning of time Adonai was demonstrating the necessity of rest. He designed it as a day of reflection, a day to gather, a day to feast. You begin with a gathering in which you feast together with those in your family and community of faith. You commemorate the very first Sabbath each week at the end of six days of labor. Reflecting on the goodness of Elohim.

The Sabbath Day wasn’t just demonstrated to us by Yahweh Himself, He instructed us to observe it. In the passage above from Genesis 2 and in the Ten Commandments given at Mt Sinai. Exodus says, “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to Yahweh your Elohim, on which you must not do any work—neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant or livestock, nor the foreigner within your gates. For in six days Yahweh made the heavens and the earth and the sea and all that is in them, but on the seventh day He rested. Therefore Yahweh blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy.” This is the fourth commandment. It is the most detailed of all the commandments given to Moses on Mt Sinai.

The Sabbath Day was important to Yahweh. He demonstrated it and commanded it. He held Israel to a standard regarding it. Isaiah writes, “If you turn back your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on My holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight, and the holy day of Yahweh honorable; and if you honor it, not doing your own ways, or finding your own pleasure, or speaking your own words, then you will delight yourself in Yahweh, and I will make you ride on the heights of the land and feed you with the heritage of your father Jacob.“. (Isaiah 58:13-14) It was a covenant sign between Yahweh and His people. Exodus 31:13-17 — “Speak to the people of Israel, saying, ‘You shall be careful to keep My Sabbaths, for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations, that you may know that I am Yahweh who sanctifies you… You are to observe the Sabbath, for it is a holy day to you. Everyone who profanes it shall be put to death… It is a permanent sign, a covenant forever“.

There is no passage of Scripture that changes or modifies the Sabbath in any way. No reputable scholar will argue this point. Yahoshua said, “I am Adon (Master) of the Sabbath.” He kept the Sabbath, attending synagogue faithfully on the Sabbath. While His body lay lifeless in a tomb. One could say that both metaphorically and physically Yahoshua rested on the Sabbath. The Apostles all kept the Sabbath. Throughout the book of Acts we read about Sabbath observance. So where does the modern tradition of Sunday observance come in? What verse changes the day? The answer is none. Not one single verse. It is impossible to argue the other side because it doesn’t exist. The only place that references a change to the Sabbath Commandment is the Catechism of the Catholic Church Article 3.

Unfortunately, in their own Catechism they incorrectly number the commandments calling the Sabbath Commandment number three instead of four. Presumably, to allow for their engraved images. They take great delight in their ability to change times and seasons. This action is expressly forbidden in Scripture. It is also warned against. Found in both Deuteronomy (4:2) and Revelation (22:18-19). The act of changing times and seasons is written of as being from the spirit of Anti-Christ. Daniel 7:25 says, “He will speak words against the Most High and try to exhaust the holy ones of the Most High. He will attempt to alter the seasons and the Torah; and [the holy ones] will be handed over to him for a time, times and half a time.”

The Sabbath is a blessing! It is not too difficult to do. Science has shown that resting as prescribed by the Sabbath command is extremely beneficial to good health. In all areas of our lives, physically, spiritually, emotionally, mentally. It was demonstrated by Elohim, observed by Yahoshua and His disciples. We are instructed to be like Yahoshua. Paul writes, “Imitate me as I imitate Messiah.” I believe that not observing the Sabbath day puts us at odds with Elohim. Scripture indicates it is a sign for all generations. It also says it is for the foreigner. It is for the servant. So one cannot say it was only for Israel. So what will you do? Will you obey mans tradition or Elohim’s Word?

This is the Way of the Rabbi,
You are loved,
cj