Tag: Word

Yahoshua’s Challenge: Unity in Torah for Believers

Yahoshua’s Challenge: Unity in Torah for Believers

Luke 7:23 – Yahoshua said, “Blessed is the one who does not fall away on account of Me.” The word for ‘fall away’ is, skandalizō it is often translated, “offended by”. A deep dive into the definition reveals these facts. 1. It is a word that describes a stumbling block. 2. It is a word that describes an enticement to sin. 3. It is a word that describes one who becomes irritated at a thing it once found desirable. Yahoshua uses the term in a specific context. He was speaking to John’s disciples. In this context, we can see that ‘fall away’ is a better translation.

Why would Yahoshua be concerned that people would ‘Fall Away’ on account of Him? For this we need to understand what the people of Israel were expecting. In the Gospel of John 12:34 we get a clue. “The crowd answered, ‘We have learned from the Torah that the Messiah remains forever. how is it that You say the Son of Man has to be ‘lifted up’? Who is this Son of Man?‘” Their understanding was for the Messiah to come and rule in Jerusalem as King, reclaiming the Kingdom of Israel. Instead, Yahoshua went to the Temple and overturned the money tables.

Another aspect of the idea of falling away on account of Him, is perhaps, His direct challenge to the Pharisees. Yahoshua often challenged them calling them a brood of vipers, or white washed tombs. He did however, encourage His followers and the people in general to listen to them. For they sat in the seat of Moses. When they would teach in the Synagogue they would read from the Torah. It was this instruction they were told to listen to and obey. “Do as they say, not as they do.”

However, for us today I believe this carries a whole new meaning. One in which many fall away from observing Torah and reading the Tanakh. They twist Paul’s writings and minimize Yahoshua’s words, “IF you love Me, you WILL obey My commandments.” Christian’s today separate themselves from Israel as if the Kingdom of Elohim is divided. When in reality throughout the Scripture we read that the two people will become one. Ultimately, that one people will live with Yahoshua as King and we will observe the Torah.

John writes, “And everyone who has this hope in him continues purifying himself, since Elohim is pure. Everyone who keeps sinning is violating Torah – indeed, sin is violation of the Torah. You know that He appeared in order to take away sins, and that there is no sin in Him. So no one who remains united with Him continues sinning. Everyone who does continue sinning has neither seen Him nor known Him.” 1 John 3:3-6

Paul writes something similar, to the followers of the Way, residing in Philippi, regarding this pursuit of purification. “It is not that I have already obtained it or already reached the goal – no, I keep pursing it 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 aer mature, let us keep paying attention to this; and if you are differently minded about anythings, Elohim will also reveal this to you. Only let our conduct fit the level we have already reached.” (Philippians 3:12-16)

This idea of progressing towards the goal is lost on modern Christians as they take Paul’s words and twist them. They also will point to the council in Jerusalem and their letter to the gentiles. A closer examination of that text will reveal that the council understood this pursuit. Paul captures in this letter to the Philippians, that it is ongoing. For reference let’s look at what the Jerusalem council said.

“Therefore it is my judgment that we do not trouble those who are turning to God from among the Gentiles, but that we write to them that they abstain from things contaminated by idols and from fornication and from what is strangled and from blood. For Moses from ancient generations has in every city those who preach him, since he is read in the synagogues every Sabbath.” Acts 15:19-21

Why such a short list? We hear Jame’s heart in the matter, “that we do not trouble those who are turning.” This was a step in the right direction. Let’s encourage them and not over burden them. Why? James continues, “For Moses from ancient generations has in every city those who preach him.” You see they expected that these new converts to the Way would hear Moses taught. Where? “Since he is read in the synagogues every Sabbath.” Not only did they expect them to hear the words of Moses taught. They also expected it to be done in the synagogues on the Sabbath. They knew that if they were genuine converts to the Way, they would continue to pursue their faith. And so they did!

There is not one instruction for the Gentile and one instruction for Israel. They weren’t to segregate. They were to merge and become one body of faith in Yahoshua Messiah. Israel isn’t to assimilate into the cultures around them. Why? Because they were outside of Torah. If gentiles come to faith in Messiah, they must eventually disassociate from pagan practices around them. Otherwise, they will have no part in the Kingdom. For the government of the Kingdom is Torah. Perhaps I will explore this more in future posts, stay tuned.

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

Understanding Truth in Religious Conversations

Understanding Truth in Religious Conversations

Part 6 of my on going communication with two Mormon Missionaries. I don’t know how many more of these there will be as we keep circling the same ground. Yet, as long as they reply I suppose I will likewise. (You can read a part one, two, three, four, five)

Gentlemen, 
Thank you. I am feeling better. However, work has been a bit stressful of late. My time has been occupied with things that pay the bills but drain the soul. 

I have no doubt that your prayers are sincere. I didn’t mean to imply otherwise. Simply my goal was to point out that although our prayers are sincere, deception is real. The devil prowls around like a lion seeking whom he may devour. We must diligently seek Truth through prayer and His Word is Truth. The difference that we have is what we consider His Word to be. 

In Adonai’s prayer as you broke it down I would ask, what is the sin that we are repenting of? As you said, repent of all sins? What defines sin? Here I would like to point out that John defines sin in 1 John 3:4. “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.” The law in reference here is Torah, sin is the transgression of Torah. It isn’t debatable it is indeed what John wrote. 

We don’t differ on the significance of Yahoshua’s sacrifice either. It is absolutely necessary for salvation. Also, your understanding of the Passover and even Yahoshua’s time in Gethsemane, from what you state, we are similar. However, does this absolve us from obedience? Does it allow us to “do as thou wilt?” As the satanic bible declares will be the whole of the law? By no means. As you yourselves have stated we will know who belongs to the kingdom by their fruits. Our differences lie in what is the sign of good fruit? I say it is sealed by our partaking in the covenant. To put on the Sabbath like a wedding ring. The ring doesn’t save us but it shows the world to Whom we belong. 

I would point out that the cup that Yahoshua prayed about was not a new revelation either. It was the cup of the adulterous bride that we read about in Numbers 5:11-31. The test of adultery of which the people of Israel were guilty. We as well, before coming into covenant relationship with Yahweh through the work of Yahoshua. He drank our cup, took our guilt and shame, bore our iniquity, that we might be forgiven and live. 

There is no need to have deeper meaning within Passover if one truly understands Passover. Yahoshua, the Lamb of Elohim. The perfect sacrifice. We can debate the timing of the crucifixion. Some would say all took place according to the times set forth for Passover. That His death, and resurrection were indeed three literal days and nights. We read that the tomb was discovered empty in the early dawn of the first day. However, this doesn’t mean Yahoshua wasn’t gone long before. Perhaps arising just after sunset or at dusk at the end of the third day. Although, fascinating I don’t believe this is important to our discussion. 

The deep seated importance and symbolism of the Passover was there all along and for all to see. Indeed Yahoshua Himself highlighted these things through out His ministry. And as previously stated, began with the proclamation of John the Baptist on the shores of the Jordan. He said, “Behold the Lamb of Elohim Who takes away the sin of the world.” The breaking of bread has its meaning, the cup in which they partook has meaning. But also there is the idea of the covenant meal. Some refer to this as communion, I did for so time, or the Lord’s Supper, the Eucharist, etc. 

We first see the covenant meal between Abraham and Melchizedek. “Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; he was the priest of Elohim Most High. And he blessed him and said: “Blessed be Abram of Elohim Most High. Possessor of heaven and earth; And blessed be Elohim Most High, Who has delivered your enemies into your hand.” Genesis 14:18-20. I would point out the beauty of Adonai’s prayer found in John 17. The whole thing is beautiful and revealing. An in-depth study reveals the vast richness of the heart of Elohim and His Son Yahoshua. One point I have tried to key in on is verses 17-19 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. And for their sake’s I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.” What is truth? “Your word is truth.” His Word, Elohim’s Word, is truth. 

When Paul wrote to Timothy he said something very important. “But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:14-17).

There isn’t a need for new revelation, or clarification in Paul’s writing to Timothy. He simply states, “continue.” What we need can be found in what has been provided. Anything that alters that course is as Paul writes, “But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.” This just before he says, “continue.” 

Gentlemen, I present my point simply. With the Tanakh, and specifically the Torah, I have all that I need to know, to grow and to be. There is nothing more required other than to believe, and to continue. I hope that your Thanksgivings are filled with family, friends, and the making of great memories.

You are loved, 
cj

Navigating Deception in the Age of AI

Navigating Deception in the Age of AI

“Behold, the days are coming,” declares Yahweh Elohim, “When I will send a famine on the land – not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water but of hearing the Words of Yahweh.” Amos 8:11

We are living in a time when wisdom and discernment are lacking. AI technology is advancing at such a rapid rate. The internet is now flooded with AI video’s nearly indistinguishable from the real thing. Unfortunately, a large swath of the population are being fooled into thinking they are real. It doesn’t stop there with advancement in Photoshop and AI people are posting fake social media posts. These posts appear to be real and from a famous person. When in fact it was designed in the basement of someone’s parent’s home or an office of government propaganda. People see the fake post, believe it, and re-post it. This distorts the truth, confuses the masses, and adds fuel to the fire of division.

AI has also entered academia and the professional worlds. Students are using it to write their papers and those seeking work are using it to create resumes. There isn’t a part of society it hasn’t infiltrated. To be transparent even i rely on AI to generate the cover photos for my posts. To say AI is entirely useless, or evil even, only makes one look a fool. However, one revealing fact of AI, it is robbing humanity of its creativity. Which is what makes humanity unique from all other life on earth. Well, besides the fact that we are created in the image of Elohim that is.

The AI phenomena is also making many a pastor lazy. One thing missing in our pulpits and society is a genuine desire to learn from Scripture. Rather, folks are content listening to regurgitated messages that tickle the ears but never challenge the heart. Because of this AI generated sermons are on the surge and they aren’t always biblical. Unfortunately, due to a lack of desire folks are not studying the Word on their own. Which lends to a persons inability to discern whether what they are being taught is true. It sounds good, so then it must be true, right? Wrong.

Deception is all around us and it is up to us to seek out what is true. Either, that or we will be swept away by it. The coming great deception, will fool many even those who may think they are prepared for it. Let’s examine a few passages of Scripture to make this point more clear.

Matthew 24:4 – Here Yahoshua warns the hearer not to be deceived. Don’t be led astray. Many will come in His name but we aren’t to listen to them or follow them. Who are those we aren’t to follow? Those that come in name only, they claim the name but not the lifestyle.

Mark 4 – The majority of this chapter is on parables with one underlying commonality, pay attention. The sower sows the seed. Some of the seed lands on good soil others in the rocks and on the path. It is up to the hearer to be good soil. Study, seek truth, become aware of Yahoshua’s lifestyle so that you can imitate Him. Many are called but few choose to be a part of the chosen.

Luke 8:18 – Living the light of Messiah. For if we do not seek truth, even what we think we might have or know, will be taken. There is coming a day of deception and it is upon us to know which voice to listen to. Which is of the Holy Spirit and which is of the desires of the flesh.

2 Thessalonians 2 – This chapter is entirely on not being deceived. Don’t fall for the lies of the enemy. He is coming, he will be lawless (without Torah) and he will lead many astray. In order to be a part of the remnant you must be aware and ready. Having enough oil in your lamp to get through the night.

The devil isn’t busting on the scene, the red-caped villain, the world thinks him to be. He won’t have the horns or the tail, but he will have charisma. He will come with promises of everything you dreamed of success and happiness. He will come with temptations of the heart and mind, like that of the fruit in the garden. It will be pleasing to the eye and your stomach will crave it. He will come, in fact he is already here and he is deceiving many. He has whispered in the ear of the believer that it is okay to partake in unrighteousness.

2 Thessalonians 2:11-12 – “Therefore, God sends them a strong delusion. So that they may believe what is false. In order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” Many believe this warning is for the unchurched, but it is not. It is a warning even to those who claim to be a member of the church. What is the description, ‘they took pleasure in unrighteousness.’ This is the Greek root word adikia, which is wickedness. Alternatively, it’s opposite is dikaiosynē. Both are descriptive of how one might treat the law of Elohim. One is seeking the Truth, what is Truth? Elohim’s Word is truth.

The interesting thing about the word dikaiosynē, is its definition. Simply, “Things commanded by Elohim to be obeyed by man.” So if we are being unrighteous, we are ‘Not doing the things commanded by Elohim. Can this be said of the modern Church? Well, do they observe the Sabbath? The Sabbath is commanded by Elohim. Do they observe the Feast Days? The Feast Days are commanded by Elohim. The debate comes down to what is Truth?

John 17:17 – “Set them apart for holiness by means of the truth — your Word is Truth.” So if His Word is Truth the question becomes am i being obedient? Think about what Yahoshua said. Matthew 15:8-9 – “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.” Are we living in deception and can that be classified as unrighteousness? It certainly can if we know what we are doing is wrong. James 4:17. – “So then, anyone who knows the right thing to do and fails to do it is committing a sin.”

Deception is coming, great deception is coming, are you ready? Or are you already living in deception? The man of sin that is coming on the scene will be lawless (Torahless). What law will he be without? The law of Elohim. Which is the Torah, that is to say the instruction of Elohim. The things commanded by Elohim to be obeyed by man. i also lean towards best practice, and being open to correction. The quest is to live righteously. To that end, what is my motivation? It is to live a life pleasing to Elohim. What then is my part?

As Micah 6:8 says, “Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly WITH Elohim.” He is walking in His Word, therefore, i want to walk in His Word. So every day the question i ask myself is, ‘How can i do better?’ Why? Because, i want to honor the words of my Messiah as He prayed for me. “I have given them Your Word, and the world hated them. Because they do not belong to the world — just as I myself do not belong to the world. I don’t ask You to take them out of the world, but to protect them from the Evil One. They do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. Set them apart for holiness by means of the truth — Your Word is Truth. Just as You sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. On their behalf I am setting myself apart for holiness. So that they too may be set apart for holiness by means of the Truth.” John 17:14-19

His WORD is TRUTH,
This is the Way of the Rabbi,
You are loved,
cj

Understanding Hebrew Roots and 7th Day Adventists

Understanding Hebrew Roots and 7th Day Adventists

An on going email conversation with two Mormon Missionaries. Part 1.

Greetings friends,

To the question of differences between the 7th Day Adventists and Hebrew Roots, I must clarify. i am neither but somewhere in-between. 7th Day’ers 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. Yet, unlike modern Christianity, they hold that all 10 commandments are to be observed. These commandments fall under the category of Moral Law. Whereas modern Christianity moves the observance of the 7th Day Sabbath. They use names like the Lord’s Day, 8th Day Sabbath, or Head of the Week. Likening it to the Head of the Church. Dependent only on how 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 presented in a nutshell, isn’t wrong in its understanding but begins to vary in its application. 

The monicker 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.” These words are simply based on the very words of Yahoshua. He said, “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? They emulated or imitated Yahoshua 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 Hebrew Roots movements ultimate desire is to be like those early Christians. Those who so closely imitated Yahoshua 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. If we are being intellectually honest, Yahoshua had a BIG problem with mans rabbinic tradition. As those traditions were used it to supersede the Torah and the Tanakh. 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. Not only did i believe that i had it all figured out. i believed 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 think 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. 

This seems a good place to stop. i look forward to our continued discussion.

Keep reading – Part Two, Second Email Response

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

Understanding Yahoshua’s (Jesus’) Teachings

Understanding Yahoshua’s (Jesus’) Teachings
Daily writing prompt
What’s something you believe everyone should know.
View all responses

An on going email conversation with two Mormon Missionaries. Part 4. i encourage you to go back and read parts one, two and three. Although, it isn’t absolutely necessary it would be beneficial.

Greetings Elders,

First, thank you for your in-depth and thoughtful response. There is much we agree on but of course this discourse is intended to highlight our differences. This not to argue but to convince, in a debate of ideas and understanding. Is this not the concept of disciple making? To present truth in hopes that one receive it and choose it . . . the very idea of changing ones mind. To this i venture. 

A divergence of understanding appears to be in the idea of what was intended by the Sermon on the Mount. Although, i do agree it was to present clarity and a deeper understanding of how to live life. In my previous response i mentioned definitions for what i believe much of this debate hinges on these understandings. As you mentioned Yahoshua said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” (Matthew 5:17). – If we stop here, even with little understanding, we should be able to draw a conclusion. What Yahoshua intended the meaning to be.

Even more so, His audience who were mostly Jews of the tribe of Judah. As well, ‘Benjamites’ of the tribe of Benjamin. Of course, perhaps a remnant of the other tribes. Certainly some Levites, but at this time in history only the southern kingdom had been regathered after the Babylonian exile. As we would later read, Yahoshua says, that even those remaining would soon be scattered. So what was His intended meaning? To abolish is to eradicate, to do away with completely. Whereas, He did not come to do such a thing but to fulfill them. What fulfillment was necessary? The idea here is not fulfill in terms of ending them. 

As you quoted from Alma 34: 14. “And behold, this is the whole meaning of the law, every whit pointing to that great and last sacrifice; and that great and last sacrifice will be the Son of God, yea, infinite and eternal.” i would have to agree. Yahoshua is the perfect atoning sacrifice. This Atonement was necessary and did fulfill once for all the requirement of death for sin. It did not end the necessity for sacrifice altogether however, as i alluded to in my previous email. The sacrificial system will return during the millennial reign of Yahoshua. Why? Briefly so that i may make my point. The Levitical Priesthood will be reinstated and as we read in the Torah, the Levites were not to own land. They were not given a portion of the inheritance like the other tribes of Israel. Rather, within the tribes they were given homes. This was due to their intended purpose as priests and ministers. The sacrificial system was, of course, pleasing to Elohim. It also provided offerings to take care of the Levites with food and provisions. This again will be the case.

So back to the idea of fulfillment. If there is no temple and no Levitical Priesthood there is no opportunity for sacrifice. Nor is there a need to provide for a Levitical Priesthood within the realm of tribal land. So with this knowledge let us look at possible definitions for the term fulfill based on this context.

Fulfilled: “to fulfill” is used in Torah to reference sacrifice. In the context stated above this seems to correlate well with what Yahoshua was presenting. As John the Baptist declared on the shores of the river. “Behold the Lamb of Elohim, who takes away the sin of the world.” Further, a deeper examination of the word fulfill shows it means to “fill up.” It also means “to make full” or “to bring fullness.” If we were to stop at verse 17, these ideas might not work entirely by themselves. However, it doesn’t end with 17. Yahoshua continues; “For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away. Not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.”

Now in light of verse 18, the definition “to bring fullness” makes much more sense than to end. Here, accomplish, becomes the defining word of the statement, which is to say; “end of.” So what then defines accomplished? A new heaven and a new earth. To my knowledge this has yet to occur. Could we still debate the matter even in light of verse 18? Perhaps, if we wanted to argue semantics. However i feel verse 19 closes any such debate. “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.” It seems quite clear to me, a westerner peering into a culture not my own. A simple graft into the natural branch as Paul writes in Romans. What is being communicated. 

With all of this, we must then take into account, who again was His intended audience at this moment? This will reveal even greater understanding as we listen with their ears. You see the Torah, was intended as a permanent covenant and the Sabbath as an eternal symbol of that covenant. (See Exodus 31:13 & 17). It was instituted not with the giving of the Torah but at creation itself. To do away with it would be to call Elohim a liar, heaven forbid we do such a thing. To say Yahoshua presented a different gospel message is to call Him a false prophet. A liar even, heaven forbid!    

Law: For further clarification our modern translations do humanity an injustice as they have translated Torah to Law when a more true definition of Torah is: Instruction, or Teaching and Instruction. So are we to say that YHWH’s teaching and instruction is done away with? By no means, may it not be so . . . Yahoshua brought depth of meaning and an exemplary lifestyle. To say it wasn’t possible to know all that would happen, cannot be said, for Yahoshua taught from the Tanakh. “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He interpreted them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” Luke 24:27

Perfect Law: Regarding “Perfect Law” we can take from it the same principle as above and say, “Perfect Instruction.” When Yahoshua was confronted and asked, “’Teacher, what is the greatest commandment (OR instruction)?’ Yahoshua replied, ‘You shall love Adonai your Elohim with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law (Instruction) and the Prophets.” The response of the Pharisees and Scribes was one of acceptance. Why? Because it wasn’t new. Yahoshua was quoting from the Torah. He was in fact quoting from Deuteronomy 6:4-5. “Hear, O Israel:” This phrase in Hebrew is ‘SHEMA’ and it means ‘Hear and Obey’.

The whole passage here in Deuteronomy became known as the Shema, a daily prayer. “Hear and Obey, O people Israel, YHWH our Elohim, YHWH is one. You shall love YHWH your Elohim with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.” Although, this is where Yahoshua’s quote ends. We can conclude very reasonably that those hearing Him would have known the exact context of it. Continuing with verse 6-9. “You shall teach them diligently to your children. You shall talk of them regularly. When you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” 

There was nothing new being presented. Only a fuller understanding. You have been told My people how to live and how to worship and how to honor. Yahoshua adds to the answer to the Scribes and Pharisees. “And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law (instruction) and the Prophets.” Here Yahoshua draws from Leviticus 19:18. “You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am YHWH.” This was surely a stinging rebuke to the Scribes and Pharisee. Who were not only jealous of Yahoshua’s following, but His command of Scripture as well. Are these perfect law? Yes, i would agree but they are not new revelations but a deeper, fuller understanding of Torah. It is why an understanding of Torah is absolutely necessary to discern what is truth and what is a lie. To see what has always been and what has been added or even removed.  

The Word made Flesh: The Apostle John writes, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with Elohim and the Word was Elohim.” Later in the same chapter he writes, “. . . And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Isaiah says, “. . . and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which is translated, ‘Elohim with us.’” Understanding this makes it difficult to believe that Yahoshua would change the character of Elohim. It also makes it difficult to believe that He would alter the instruction or nature of Elohim. The Psalmist writes, “The Torah of YHWH is perfect. It revives the soul. The testimony of YHWH is trustworthy. It makes wise the simple.” (Psalm 19:7). Yahoshua is recorded by John in Chapter 17 in what is known as the High Priestly Prayer. He says: “I have given them Your Word.” He then says, “Set them apart for holiness, by means of the Truth. Your Word is Truth.” The very idea that Elohim would change after chastising, rebuking, and exiling His set apart people is nowhere found in Scripture. Yahoshua came and said, and did, only what was instructed by the Father.

Contradiction: Clearly, as stated and presented here, there is no room for contradiction. If there is one present, there are only two conclusions. One, we have misinterpreted a passage or two, there is a false teacher/prophet spouting things they should not. i would continue but i fear to beat a dead horse.

i am sorry to hear of Elder –– departure i hope that all is well and it is not for any major concerns, health or otherwise. Will his email still be active? Corresponding with him and you via email would still be something i would hope to continue. 

Until the next . . .
You are loved,
cj  

Finding Strength in Brokenness: My Path to Healing

Finding Strength in Brokenness: My Path to Healing
Daily writing prompt
What have you been working on?
View all responses

me. For years and years, i had believed it, it was my responsibility to work on other people. So much so, i neglected myself. In so doing, my life is tattered with failures and brokenness. In 2020, during a strange year in history, i made a series of poor choices. These choices led to the breaking of my marriage, family, and ministry. To top things off my mom passed away from colon cancer. It was rapid and felt like a whirlwind. my life was collapsing around me and it was now out of my control. A place i did not know, for i prided myself on being in control.

The only good thing is that i still had my relationship with Jesus. In all the brokenness, He never left, He never let go. In fact, He stirred me. He awakened in me a desire to know Him more intimately. This became my driving force. i sought him eagerly. A daily routine was made in which i started and ended my day with Him. my day was also filled with prayer, better yet, conversations with Jesus. In one of those mornings, i read Philippians 2:12. This wasn’t unfamiliar to me, i had read it many times, probably preached on it hundreds of times. It says: “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.”

my ongoing conversation with God was, “What now, Lord?” “So now.” As i read this tears filled my eyes. It was as if the voice of the Lord was saying, “What now you ask? So now, obey my instruction. Even if you feel I am a million miles away, obey. Stop worrying about what others are doing and start caring about what you are doing. Work out your own salvation with Me. Learn what it is to love and to honor. What does fear and trembling mean to you? For it is ME who works in you and it brings Me great pleasure to so.”

This began my journey of working on me. In so doing i sought God through it all. Leaned on Him for understanding and wisdom. Putting behind me what i thought i knew and like a new born baby, craved the Word like milk. And the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit, like a mother’s embrace. The last five years have been, me working on me, with direction from the Word. It has lead me into discovering the Way of the Rabbi. It has stirred in me a desire to call Jesus by His given name, Yahoshua. To call the Father Yahweh. To refer to Him as Elohim, and Adonai. It has brought me to the Abrahamic covenant, the order of Melchizedek, to Moses, and the Way of the Rabbi. Yahoshua, the Word made flesh.

And now, i write about Elohim, working on me. To make me what He wants me to be and what i have learned along the way. In hopes that it inspires others. You even, who are reading this right now, to do the same. To “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” i invite you to join me on my journey, i call the Way of the Rabbi. You can read my transformation through the years. i hope that my working on myself, if anything, inspires you to work on yourself.

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

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