Restoration of all Israel

Parable -- Seed

2012-02-16T17:49:00.002+02:00

(14/02/2003)

Our nation is in full swing at this time preparing for the unknown. America and Great Britain are determined to bring down the government of Iraq and disarm that nation (at least of its weapons of mass destruction). This present situation has been analyzed from every imaginable angle. YHVH’s Spirit of Holiness, however, continues to prompt this one little question from Peter: “What kind of people aught we to be?” (ref. 2 Peter 3:11). By this time we should not be surprised by wars and rumors of wars, nor should our hearts be troubled. YHVH has not changed His plan for His people Israel and Judah. As a matter of fact, I just read an article on Bush and Sharon, who are said to be bosom buddies since 9/11, and with the Israeli Ilan Ramon on board the ill-fated space shuttle Columbia, their two nations have been brought together as never before. Are we experiencing the jealousy of Ephraim departing, and are we about to see the enemies of Judah being cut off (ref. Isa. 11:13)? When we understand biblical prophecy and view it from revelation- knowledge (in this case, the ‘two house plan’), our prayer can become a statement of fact and faith, and not just a hopeful plea.

These past few weeks, upon being confronted about the validity of the two houses or two sticks “theory” (as some put it), the Father prompted me to respond to the challenge of the danger of apostasy and divisiveness, which it supposedly presents, with various parables of the “sower”.
“And He said, ‘The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.’ Then He said, ‘to what shall we liken the kingdom of God? Or with what parable shall we picture it? It is like a mustard seed which, when it is sown on the ground, is smaller than all the seeds on earth; but when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all herbs, and shoots out large branches, so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade.’ And with many such parables He spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it. But without a parable He did not speak to them. And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples” (Mark 4:26-34).

When YHVH made the covenant with Abraham, He spoke the anointing of His Word into the life of that forefather, and then swore by His own name to remain faithful to him and to that Word. In the parable, just preceding the one quoted above, Yeshua explains that the seed that is sown is the Word. In the case of the covenant with our forefathers, YHVH’s Word/seed fell upon human seed , that is, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. YHVH promises to multiply and to sow that anointed (mashiach) seed into the earth, and sometime in the future also to harvest it. Remember the seed principle? No matter how many seeds one has, if it is of the same parent plant it will always be a singular “seed”. If a farmer, for example, sows wheat in his field, when the harvest comes he will (hopefully) reap a hundred fold of that same seed (singular).

Another parable tells about an enemy who sowed his seeds in a field, along the seed sown by the husbandman (ref. Matt. 13:24). These two different seeds grew together, but it was not until the harvest that the farmer could do anything about the plant that grew from the other seed. YHVH knows what seed He planted in the fields of this earth; it is the same one that has the life that came from the ‘father plant’, that is, “Abraham”.

Paul phrases this idea in simple words, “Abraham is the father of all those who have the faith (ref. Rom. 4:16). Then again, in his Letter to the Galatians he says that all those who are in Messiah are of the seed of Abraham (ref. Gal. 3:29). Paul wants us to know that it is those who are of the faith who are sons of Abraham (Gal. 3:7), for there is no way to be in Messiah except through that faith. Perhaps this is why in the Letter to the Hebrews, the writer states that YHVH only gives help to the seed of Abraham (ref. Heb. 2:16). Yeshua points directly, in almost all of His parables, to the order of His Father’s kingdom on earth. He knows who the pearl of great price is, or the treasure that is hidden in the field.

What is always amazing to me, is that we somehow try to use scriptures to back up our particular doctrines or beliefs, rather than allowing the scriptures to interpret themselves. We know that YHVH is fulfilling His Word to those that He had originally spoken it to, and that He is doing it in the way He had originally planned. Speaking to the whole House of Israel, in Ezekiel 37 for example, He tells the dry bones to come up out of their graves and to stand on their feet. He then infuses them with His breath, so that they may live. Is this not what has happened to us, who have received the “breath” or “Spirit of Holiness”? Did we not come alive with this breath? Were we not in our graves of “sin and death”? So how is it that we do not understand that those scriptures are pointing directly at us, as the “whole house of Israel”? We must stop twisting the Word of God to support our religious convictions, and let the Word speak for itself. We see through a glass darkly, yes, but when we shall see Him, Yeshua the Word, we will be known as we are known, for He is the kinsman redeemer of Israel. 14/02/2003

Last Days

2012-02-08T16:07:00.001+02:00

This is a follow up on last week’s letter of the Two Houses in the Last Days. The prophets of old mark these days with wars and great turmoil. Likewise Yeshua’s words about these days, also reiterate the same thoughts: “Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, `I am the Messiah,' and will deceive many, and you will hear of wars and rumors of wars” (Matt. 24:4-6). Most us don’t have any problem relating today’s world situations to what Yeshua or the prophets said on the topic. YHVH has given us the scriptures and this wonderful world of communication as a tool to reveal to us the truths of His Word.

So why are the kingdoms of this world being shaken? Is it because YHVH so hates the world that He is bent on destroying it? I do not believe that that is His motivation. YHVH’s true motive is always based on His nature, which is of course unconditional love. Why then all these ‘heavy-duty’ judgments? Could He be acting now in the same manner that He did in the days that His people, our forefathers, were in Egypt? But at that time too, YHVH wasn’t just being vindictive when He hardened Pharaoh’s heart, looking for a pretext for doing all that damage to the land and people of Egypt. He wasn’t trying to convince them that they were to repent from their ways and turn to Him (at least not directly). He was motivated by faithfulness to His word, and compassion towards His people. He wanted to establish them and His kingdom according to His pre-ordained plan, so that Egypt and the rest of the nations would know that He is the Elohim of His people Israel. He never once called Himself the God of Egypt, or the God of Amalek, but He did say repeatedly that He is the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

YHVH says about Himself that He changes not. He is the God of Israel (both houses) and we still belong to Him, just as did our forefathers. We, who have come into the revelation understanding of our true identity, must face up to our history as His covenant people and to our relationship with Him, especially now that He has raised us from the dead spiritually, and restored our lost national identity (natural) through the new covenant. One scripture that we have quoted over the years, along with other Two House teachers, is Acts 3:19-21:

"Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that He may send Yeshua the Messiah, who was preached to you before, whom heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things, which Elohim has spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began.”

Our writing has been mainly focused on the restoration of our natural identity, as well as on what it means to be an Israelite and a firstborn in humanity. We have also touched upon the restoration of His kingdom to Israel. However, there is another ‘ingredient’ that we really haven’t discussed much, although it is very important to the redeemed Israelites. This ingredient is perhaps the major theme of the writings of the New Covenant books. It may be defined as, ‘who we are as the first fruit of a new creation order’. James wrote: “Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures (James 1:18). Paul also says that “if anyone is in Messiah, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (Col. 5:17). Presumably, if that is the case, who needs the ‘old’ and natural Israelite, since now we are all new Israelites? Well, let’s not jump too quickly to conclusions. The Greek mindset would definitely analyze it from that perspective. However, the Hebraic point of view is able to integrate these concepts (otherwise there would be no male or female either, and things could become quite embarrassing in certain public conveniences).

The Hebrew word for firstborn, in Exodus 13:12, is “peh’ter”, meaning to separate, or first to open. Breaking forth and opening up the way was the responsibility and calling of a firstborn. Thus Yeshua was the first, of the first fruit nation Israel (in the ‘natural’), to break forth into the new creation life and existence (spiritually speaking). His birthing into this new life was a surety that the rest of His brethren would soon follow until “all of Israel will be saved” (Rom. 11:26). And thus, once the Father brings forth His first fruit company of the ‘Adamic’ family, the rest of their brethren in the family of man will follow.

However, the question remains: having our restored identity now, what kind of people aught we to be in these days?
To be continued…
Ephraim 24/01/03

two houses in the latter days

2012-02-02T17:55:00.000+02:00

Before getting into the subject matter of this week’s letter, we must understand that there are two separate and distinct scriptural entities, namely the house of Israel and the house of Judah, and that each of them has its own specific prophetic destiny. But even though two, they are still bound to the calling which they have inherited from their forefather Jacob, that is to be one chosen nation of kings and priests. However, in the course of their history YHVH divided the nation into two kingdoms, for His purposes and plans that are directly related to the covenant that He swore to Abraham. It is also important to understand the first-born concept and its centrality in YHVH’s plan of redemption, and its connection to the two houses of Israel. Grasping the firstborn principle is paramount to the understanding of the latter day events, according to the Tanach (refer to letters 161, 162 on that subject).

Isaiah 8:14 presents the ‘two house’ truth: “He will be as a sanctuary, but a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense to BOTH the houses of Israel”. As long as these two continue to stumble and take offense over the One who is their Rock, they will remain two distinct entities.

Many like to define the two groups as ‘Christians’ (Israel/Ephraim), and ‘Jews’ (Judah), as if they are made up of two religious groups, but we must realize that all tribes are represented in both houses, and that together they constitute multitudes of peoples which make up many ethnic groups. But for the purpose of this article, let us view them as nations. We have, then, the nation of Judah/Israel today, being made up mostly of Jews from Judah, and on the other hand, because YHVH is true to His word, there is also the other house (Joseph/Ephraim), which is made up of many nations (“the fullness of the nations” Gen. 48:19), even though most of them are unaware of their identity. These nations have been blessed by multiplicity, military power, and economic wealth (see Gen. 49:22-26). In the blessing to Joseph, through his son Menasseh, Jacob pronounced that he was to be a great people. However, as a great people the descendants of Manasseh would not be able to connect their greatness to the fulfillment of the prophecies about the people of Israel, as God had blinded them and caused them to forget (being the meaning of the name “Menasseh”) their identity.

In the midst of these two ‘houses’, there is yet one more that must be recognized, in order to understand these latter day happenings. The House of David plays perhaps the most important role in YHVH’s plans of restoration, as it is the seat of government for the other two houses. The House of David cannot be separated from the House of Judah, as the root of Jesse is an offshoot of that forefather. Yeshua the Messiah of Israel came to set up His Father’s kingdom in a restored house of Jacob (Luke 1:31-33). After atoning for sin, He began to call out from the multitudes of His people (both houses) a first fruit remnant, in order to “restore the fallen succah of David” (Amos 9:11; Acts, 15:16). There is, therefore, now a remnant that is filled with the Spirit of Holiness, His new creation life, and kingdom government (ref. Rom. 14:17) which constitutes the House of David. The expression of Yeshua’s life in the believer (now part of David’s succah) is not a religious expression, but the evidence or witness of His life and dominion.

We must not expect the multitudes of our brothers (from both houses), who have yet to experience salvation, to be like the remnant that had that experience, although they are still fulfilling (unawares) the prophecies that have been written concerning them. This is taking place not because they set out to do so, but because they are under the anointing of the Holy One of Israel, as He brings to pass His word regarding the latter day prophetic scenario.

One of the keys to understanding the end time scriptures is to watch for Judah’s lead. The Jews have never lost their identity, but have been preserved by the Almighty: “Yet I will have mercy on the house of Judah, I will save them by YHVH their God, and will not save them by bow, nor by sword or battle, by horses or horsemen" (Hos. 1:7). And: “He will set up a banner for the nations, and will assemble the outcasts [or rejected ones] of Israel [Joseph/Ephraim], and gather together the dispersed [or preserved] of Judah from the four corners of the earth” (Is. 11:12).

In Ezekiel 37 we see that Judah’s stick (nation) is gathered first and is ‘written upon’ (v. 16). Then, during the latter rains, Judah is called upon as a nation to be “a mighty war horse in battle” (Zech. 10:1,3). During those days Jerusalem is restored to Judah, and is called to prepare for war against her surrounding nations (Joel 3:1-2,11). In these self-same days the Joseph/Ephraim stick is also to be gathered and is being ‘written upon’ (Ez. 37:16). And then the two are to join together in the war with the surrounding nations (Is. 11:13-15, Zech 9:13). These are a few of the scriptural descriptions and references that are to be fulfilled in what are called the ‘latter days’.

As we see, the nation of Judah today is back in her land; Jerusalem is again under Judah’s control, and the nations around her are hostile towards her. This hostility extends not only toward Judah, but also toward some of the Ephraimite nations of the West. Additionally, we see these nations, like the United States of America, in economic and military partnerships with Judah. These nations at this point in time are preparing for war with Judah’s surrounding nations. With impending war and other potentially catastrophic world events, it is necessary to gain an understanding of the prophetic perspective. When we know that all of this has already been predicted, and that in YHVH’s strategy it is as good as having already taken place, we can rejoice, for our full redemption is drawing closer.

17/01/03

Firstborn - First Fruit

2012-01-20T17:22:00.002+02:00

Letter 166 (firstborn – First fruit)

FIRSTBORN – FIRST FRUIT

The first reference to firstborn is seen in Genesis 4:4, when Abel brings to the Creator the firstborn and choicest of his flock, while his brother Cain offered of the fruit of the ground. Cain’s sacrifice was not accepted, as it wasn’t in accordance with the requirements of the Creator. Somehow, even at that early stage of human existence, there was an understanding regarding the importance of this concept, and thus, in subsequence to disobedience and unbelief, Cain himself lost to Abel his own rights as a firstborn.

In Exodus we find the first mention of the ordinance of first fruit: "The first of the first fruits of your land you shall bring into the house of YHVH your God” (Exodus - 23:19). In today’s world, there is very little significance attached to first fruit or to firstborn. However, in the eyes of YHVH and in His plan of redemption the principle of firstborn, or first fruit, is of paramount importance. In his epistle, after addressing the 12 tribes, James writes: “Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruit of His creatures” (James 1:18). Paul also writes: “For if we are in the Messiah we are a first fruit of a new creation order” (ref. 2Cor. 5:17; Rom 8:23). James’s mention of the twelve tribes is not a mere coincidence; for they are the ones who had been designated as first fruit - firstborn, even before Messiah’s redemptive work had been executed.

When Moshe was commissioned by YHVH to bring His people out of Egypt, he was sent to Pharaoh with the message that, “Israel is My son, my firstborn” (Exodus 4:22). Later, after killing all the firstborn of Egypt, YHVH announced to Israel: "Consecrate to Me all the firstborn; whatever opens the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and beast; it is Mine" (Exodus 13:2). "You shall set apart to YHVH all that open the womb, that is, every firstborn that comes from an animal which you have; the males shall be YHVH’s” (Exodus 13:12).

The Hebrew word for firstborn, in Exodus 13:12 is “peh’ter”, meaning to separate, or first to open. Other meanings for the same root are: remove, set free, depart, split, and break through. Interestingly, the injunction to “set apart” or to “dedicate” (as translated in English), in the above verse (12), is derived from the same root as the noun for “Hebrew”. (Note: generally, the root for “to set apart”, or “to consecrate” is k.d.sh, and for “firstborn” it is b.ch.r.). This unusual choice of words, here in Exodus 13:12, seems to highlight the idea of breaking through and passing over, while being recognized as belonging to YHVH. This lends emphasis to the fact that the Hebrews, whose name originates from their forefather Ever, who also was of the firstborn genealogy, are a firstborn nation dedicated and set apart unto YHVH their God.

But what does it actually mean to be a firstborn or a first fruit?

According to the Torah statute it means that one does not belong to oneself, or to anyone or anything else except to YHVH. Those who are His are identified as His property by being stamped (literally, or figuratively), or marked out through circumcision (flesh and/or heart). This principle of possession is articulated in the oft-occurring expression: “for My namesake”. The notion of ownership and possession, commonplace in the world, applies no less to YHVH’s relationship with His people. "But YHVH has taken you and brought you out of the iron furnace, out of Egypt, to be His people, an inheritance, as you are this day” (Deut. 4:20). ”For YHVH'S portion is His people; Ya’acov is the place of His inheritance” (Deut. 32:9).

Moshe understood this Torah ordinance of possession or ownership; for when YHVH was about to judge Israel, he reminded Him concerning His own inheritance: "O Adoni YHVH, do not destroy Your people and Your inheritance whom You have redeemed through Your greatness, whom You have brought out of Egypt with a mighty hand…. Yet they are Your people and Your inheritance, whom You brought out by Your mighty power and by Your outstretched arm” (Deut. 9: 26,29). Later Daniel and Ezra interceded for YHVH’s people in the same way (see Daniel 9 and Ezra 9). True intercessors for Israel always understood this principle of the firstborn or first fruit. It was the most effective prayer on behalf of Israel in addressing the Almighty.

It is not only the ‘possession’ that is marked for the sake of identity, but the ‘possessor’ too is stamped for the sake of His beloved. In Isaiah, YHVH points out that Zion is engraved on the palms of His hand: “See, I have inscribed, [engraved, etched] you on the palms of My hands” (Is. 49:16). Is there a more direct illustration of this than Yeshua’s “burrowed through” hands, described so graphically by King David: “My strength is dried up like a potsherd, and My tongue clings to My jaws; You have brought Me to the dust of death. For dogs have surrounded Me. The congregation of the wicked has enclosed Me. They pierced My hands and My feet” (Psa. 22:15-16)?

YHVH’s unalterable love and faithfulness to His covenants is seen in the redemptive work of the Messiah. We are the witnesses in this generation of His mercies and truthfulness, for He cannot lie. Thus we do not dare bear false witness against the Almighty. The Body of the redeemed remnant of Israel must come to an understanding of what it means to be a firstborn, a single restored Israelite nation, with a kingdom government and one head or king. The “one new man”, or the “new creation life” that now makes up our innermost being, is the life and nature of the Father that we have received through His Son Yeshua, who is the Father’s firstborn.

Moshe was instructed by YHVH to tell Israel what His intended plan was for them: “’You are My first born Son, My precious possession; you shall be My treasured inheritance among all the peoples of the earth and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation’. These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel" (Exodus 19: 5-6). In these verses we see that a firstborn also had the calling of a priest. As we know from the biblical account, because of sin the people could not live up to the requirements of becoming that nation of priests. As a result, through the words of the prophet Hosea, YHVH rejects Israel from being His priests. “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for Me; because you have forgotten the Torah of your God, I also will forget your children” (Hos. 4:6), which He ultimately did by calling them “not my people” (Hos. 1:9).

But now that sin had been dealt with, the priesthood of Aaron and the Levites, who were only chosen to hold the position temporarily, has come to and end. It is interesting to note that aside from meaning “accompaniment”, Levi also comes from the root “to borrow”, which denotes a transitory state. Because of sin, YHVH ‘borrowed’, or temporarily selected the tribe of Levi to replace the first-born. "Now behold, I Myself have taken the Levites from among the children of Israel instead of every firstborn who opens the womb among the children of Israel. Therefore the Levites shall be Mine” (Num 3:12). Please note the connection between first-born and priesthood, as neither BELONGED TO THEMSELVES. Their purpose was to be of service to YHVH.

The provisions for the new covenant were announced by Moshe even before our forefathers entered the land (see Deut. 30:1-7), later to be reiterated by the prophets (e. g. Jer. 31; Ez 36;). However, after the manifestation of the new covenant, through the death, burial, and resurrection of Israel’s kinsmen Redeemer the suffering Messiah, everything was put in order and set in place, so that the nation could take its God-given priestly position among all the nations. Sin had been atoned for; the charge sheet and penalty for disobedience was nailed to the cross in the body of the Redeemer. The blood was now able to sanctify the Israelite believer, so that the promised priesthood “after the order of Melchizedec” could be reestablished in the Israelite nation. YHVH the God of Israel was in the Messiah reconciling the “kosmos” (translated “world”) unto Himself (ref. 2 Corinthians 5:19). [Note: “kosmos” means to put back into right order]. Thus, the Aaronic priesthood came to an end on the day the sinner died, for it is written that He, Himself, became the guilt offering and did bear the iniquities of us all, and the sin of the transgressors was permanently removed as far as the east is from the west (ref. Is.53; Ps. 103: 12).

The apostle Peter, addressing the elect seed of Israel’s race, those who were living alongside the heathens out in the nations, those whom he compared to “Not My People”, and to “She Who Obtained No Mercy ” (ref. Hos. 1:6,9), says that they “are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation; God’s special people, who are to proclaim the praises of Him who called them out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1Pet. 2:9). Yes, we, who were once “not My People” (house of Yoseph/Israel), have been transferred to the Kingdom of His beloved Son, to be a Kingdom of priests and a holy nation.

Again, through Hosea, YHVH says that He would raise Israel up on the second day, and on the third day they would live before Him (ref. Hos.6:2). Living before Him is a priestly position and calling. We are the witnesses of the grace and mercy of a loving Father, who in the place where He called us “not My people” declares that we are the “sons of the living God” (ref. Hos. 1:10). We are “the precious sons of Zion weighed against fine gold” (ref. Lam. 4:1-2), mined from the rock of Abraham (ref. Is. 51:1-2), smelted in the fires of the Holy Spirit, and poured into the mold of a precious priesthood. 20/12/02

2012-01-11T17:45:00.002+02:00

Anti-Mashiach 06/12/02

Islam, the Vatican, Democracy (and other institutions), respectively, have all been ‘targeted’ by various ones for the role, or possible expression, of the “Anti Christ”. Others look for a certain individual to fulfill that position, and head a one world economic and political system. As believers in Yeshua the Messiah, perhaps we all, at one time or another have had (or still have) our opinions concerning this subject. If you will bear with me, I would like to share some thoughts that I have had for some time now, but have never put down in writing. Please note that the following is not intended as a polemic designed to dispute any one, or all, of these ideas or opinions.

The Apostle John is the one who formulated the term “Antichrist”. He writes: “Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour” (1 John 2:18). After addressing the “little children”, he points out that there are many antichrists and more to come, and concludes by saying that this is a sign of the end times. Why does John, when dealing with this particular topic, address “little children”? In a previous verse John identifies the “little children”. “I write to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for His name's sake… I write to you, little children, because you have known the Father” (1 John 2:12-13; 20). The Greek word for children is “paidion”, and portrays immaturity. However, there are two things that the “child”, which John speaks about (the new believer), is to understand; Firstly that his sins are forgiven through the work of Messiah Yeshua, not for the “child’s”, sake but because of the purpose and nature of Elohim. The other point is that he has the anointing or “chrisma” of the Spirit of Holiness, which enables him to know his Heavenly Father. These two things seem to be essential in overcoming antichrist, or the teachings that emanate from that source.

In the very next verse John continues, and he points his finger at the ones responsible for introducing lies, and leading the young believers into deception. “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us; but they went out that they might be made manifest, that none of them were of us” (2:19). These individuals were either apostles, or perhaps disciples of the apostles, but they did not remain in fellowship with the others, because of a lying spirit that operated in them. “Who is a liar but he who denies that Yeshua is the Messiah? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son.” “… Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father either” (v.22-23). Yeshua said: "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). There is no other way to the Father, because the Father Himself was in the Son reconciling the world unto Himself (2 Corinthians 5:19). "… the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth" (John 4:23-24).

Apparently there were those who perhaps at first were believers, but then denied or rejected the fact that Yeshua was the Messiah, and thus are labeled liars. But John does not stop there. He goes one step further, calling them “anti-christs”, that is, being opposed to the anointing of the Spirit of Holiness, as it is only in the anointing, or the indwelling of the Spirit, that the Father and Son are present in the life of the believer. John exhorts the “child” to recognize this fact, saying: “But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things. I have not written to you because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth…He who acknowledges the Son has the Father also. Therefore, let that abide in you, which you heard from the beginning. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, you also will abide in the Son and in the Father. And this is the promise that He has promised us----eternal life” [being the life of the Father]. These things I have written to you concerning those who try to deceive you” (1 John 2:20-21; 24-25).

Yeshua said that He would send the Comforter, meaning the Spirit of Holiness, who would lead us into all the truth (see John 16:7; 13). The first revelation truth that the Spirit brings into the life of the believer is that Yeshua is the Messiah, and that our sins are forgiven. The second is to cry out “Abba” (ref. Rom. 8:15). This anointing of the Comforter is the indwelling presence of the Father, and is also the life of the Son -“Yeshua”. They are one and the same in the Spirit of Holiness. The Apostle Paul exhorts us to examine ourselves as to whether we are in the faith: “Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Yeshua the Messiah is in you?” (2 Cor 13:5). “Therefore let that abide in you which you heard from the beginning. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, you also will abide in the Son and in the Father” (1 John 2:24).

John continues his instruction to the youthful believers by telling them not to believe every spirit, but to test the spirits, whether they are of God because many false prophets and teachers have gone out into the world. This simple examination is the acid test to let you know whether these prophets, teachers (and apostles or pastors for that matter), indeed have the Spirit of God: “Every spirit that confesses that Yeshua the Messiah has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Yeshua the Messiah has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world” (1 John 4:1-4). Thus the spirit of Anti-Christ is seen to be against the anointing of the Spirit of Holiness in the life of the believer, and will reject the fact that the Father and the Son are present in that anointing.

Since John’s letter deals with the indwelling presence of the Spirit (the Father and Son), the “flesh” that is mentioned is not only Yeshua’s natural body of two thousand years ago, but also pertains to His “flesh” body on the earth today, meaning you and I, and all those who are in Messiah Yeshua through faith. The following verse, I believe, confirms that John is referring to Yeshua’s body of flesh today: “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). Yes, He (the Father in the Son) in you, in your natural being, is the target of an Antichrist spirit, because that spirit knows that through that anointing we overcome and grow into young men. “I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the wicked one [the liar and deceiver] ” (1 John 2:13). “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world----our faith” (1 John 5:4).

The faith that the Apostles are speaking about is the faith of Abraham our earthly father (see Rom. 4:16). It is that faith which brings us into the knowledge of He who “is our life” and abides in our flesh bodies, and we (abide) in His Spirit. “For we who live are always delivered to death for Yeshuas’ sake, that the life of Yeshua also may be manifested in our mortal flesh” (2 Cor. 4:11; see Acts 17:28 and Col. 3:4). An antichrist spirit attacks “the faith” and this is why many will fall from the faith in the last days (ref. Dan. 11:35; Mat. 24:10,12,22,24), and so we must be reminded daily: “Above all, take up the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one” (Eph 6:16).

In conclusion let us read again 1 John 2:24: “Therefore, let that abide in you which you heard from the beginning. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, you also will abide in the Son and in the Father”. In light of the usage of the word “beginning” in the previous verse, let’s read the opening lines of John’s letter: ” That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life---- the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us--- that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Yeshua the Messiah. And these things we write to you that your joy may be full” (1 John 1:1-4).

Firstborn continued

2012-01-01T11:19:00.002+02:00

Letter 162 (firstborn con.) 25/10/02

Years have now gone by and Esav, who had despised the birthright (Gen. 25:34) when in need of immediate gratification, was not, however, willing to give it up altogether. Knowing that aside from the ‘automatic’ rights of a firstborn, there was also the father’s right hand blessing upon death, he felt quite confident that he still had his share coming (and what with being daddy’s favorite an’ all…! 25:8). Indeed, Hairy Red’s projections into the future did not fail. When the time came for his father to bless him, Yitzchak called him over and put in an order for that delicious venison delicacy that his son the hunter was so noted for (27:1). But, remember Rivka (Rebecca) and her devised plan? Being keenly aware of the latest developments, she now set out to implement the plan (and menu).

While Esav is out in the field hunting for that nice portion of venison, Rivka calls her beloved Ya’acov, instructing him in what will become one of history’s most crucial impersonations. Rivka tells Ya’acov to go out and get two young kids, which he does. After making them into a stew, she plasters the hides over his hands and neck, as the crux of the plan was that Ya’acov would go to his blind father as his brother. Being blind, Yitzchak would naturally communicate through his other senses and with the obvious differences, of one son being hairy and the other smooth-skinned, something had to be done… To make sure that the plan would not fail, Rivka also gives Ya’acov the best of Esav’s wardrobe (country odors included).

Tensions were running high as Ya’acov carried in the savory meal, with some freshly baked bread and a little wine. All of the delicious fragrances, as part of the cover up plot, were to have an intoxicating effect on the “old man”. Then the test begins. Yitzchak was already suspicious of foul play (Esav had just left for the hunt, how could he make it back so quickly?). It would take divine intervention to pull this off… Ya’acov, who just barely manages to pass the test, receives the following blessing of the firstborn. “May God give you of the dew of heaven, of the fatness of the earth, and plenty of grain and wine. Let peoples serve you, and nations bow down to you. Be master over your brethren, and let your mother's sons bow down to you. Cursed be everyone who curses you, and blessed be those who bless you!" (Gen. 27:28-29). One can see from the nature of this blessing, that losing it is no small matter.

Adam, Noah, and Avraham all shared in YHVH’s kingdom order as firstborn and patriarchal heads of the human family. Each was like a prince, who would ultimately rule with Elohim. Now, Ya’acov, is the 22nd elder to join the list of the 24 who are sitting around the throne (ref. Rev. 4:4). However, Ya’acov, unlike the others, does not represent merely himself; he is a promised and chosen nation (Gen. 25:23) that would one day be the Israel of God (the prince who rules with Elohim).

After the death of his father, Ya’acov becomes the sole heir to the throne of Elohim on earth, as it was in the course of his generation that all the rest of the firstborn from Noah onwards died, only to be seen again, as mentioned above, when their Kinsman Redeemer would take the scroll out of their Heavenly Father’s hand (ref Rev. 5:1-7). It is imperative for us to understand this. One of the 24 elders, called out: "Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals." No one, in heaven, on earth or under the earth qualified to open this scroll, not even these 24 elders sitting around the throne. Michael the Archangel did not qualify either. In order for someone to take the scroll and open it, one would have had to overcome and to legally qualify for the position of a redeemer. Why is that so important to understand? Because we, who have been called into the body of Messiah as a first fruit, or firstborn, have to also qualify by overcoming in order to fulfill the position that all Creation is groaning for and waiting to see. “The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs----heirs of God and joint heirs with Messiah, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory, which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God" (Rom 8:16-19). We must be careful not to be like Esav, and give up our birthrights for the tantalizing ways of the flesh.

Ya’acov and mother danced for joy upon the completion of the mission, which was but short lived, as the will of Elohim was going to continue to be done. Ya’acov’s brother returns home from the hunt, only to find out that his younger sibling had stolen his double portion and the right hand blessing. It is interesting that in order to receive the blessing Ya’acov had to lie to his father, which seemed to have been an acceptable tactic, according to divine justice. However, it did result in a very strong reaction from Esav, and understandably so. Loss of this magnitude produces rage and bitterroot judgment, while bitterness and anger of this degree, will always turn into hatred and murder. Esav, now possessed with these thoughts and emotions, set out to kill his brother. This is quite reminiscent of the story of Ka’yin (Cain) who killed his brother over the same issue. In our lives today, as a redeemed remnant, the battle that rages inside us is also of a similar nature; the conflict between the rightful firstborn – that is the natural man - and the second one - the spiritual man. “Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption" (1Cor. 15:30). “But, as he who was born according to the flesh then persecuted him who was born according to the Spirit, even so it is now…For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another" (Gal. 4:29; Gal. 5:17).

Ya’acov was now fleeing for his life from his twin brother, who was a mighty hunter.

"Behold, I will send for many fishermen," says YHVH, "and they shall fish them; and afterward I will send for many hunters, and they shall hunt them from every mountain and every hill, and out of the holes of the rocks” (Jer. 16-16). Since “there is nothing new under the sun”, and “that which has been is what will be, that which is done is what will be done (Ecc.1:9), could these descriptions be referring to the “mighty hunters” (such as Esav and Nimrod), and to the fishers of men, as defined by Yeshua?

What we see in a microcosm in the book of Genesis is a macrocosm today, for the seed or progeny of these forefathers is still alive in people groups (see letter 76 “battle of the firstborn”). The same murdering spirit that was in the heart of Esav was transferred over to his firstborn’s firstborn son, Amalek. YHVH tells us that even in this generation the conflict continues.

“Then YHVH said to Moses, ‘Write this for a memorial in the book and recount it in the hearing of Joshua, that I will utterly blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven… Because YHVH has sworn: YHVH will have war with Amalek from generation to generation’" (Ex. 17:14,17). It is obvious that there can be no peace treaty signed between the flesh and the spirit.

The following is the list of what we give up if we sell our birthrights for a portion of tantalizing flesh.

But to him who overcomes:

“I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God"' (Rev 2:7).

“shall not be hurt by the second death" '(Rev. 2:11).

“I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it"' (Rev. 2:17).

and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations” (Rev. 2:26).

“shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels” (Rev 3:5).

“I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. And I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name” (3:12).

“I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne” (Rev 3:21).

“shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son” (Rev. 21:7).

“For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world----our faith. Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Yeshua is the Son of God?” (1st John 5:4-5).

Importance of a Firstborn

2011-12-19T10:41:00.003+02:00

The name, First Born, points to the one whom YHVH declares to be His own possession, according to Torah. "Now behold, I Myself have taken the Levites from among the children of Israel instead of every firstborn who opens the womb among the children of Israel. Therefore the Levites shall be Mine, because all the firstborn are Mine. On the day that I struck all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, I sanctified to Myself all the firstborn in Israel, both man and beast. They shall be Mine: I am YHVH" (Num 3:12-13). "Consecrate to Me all the firstborn, whatever opens the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and beast; it is Mine…"you shall set apart to YHVH all that open the womb, that is, every firstborn that comes from an animal which you have; the males shall be YHVH'S… But every firstborn of a donkey you shall redeem with a lamb; and if you will not redeem it, then you shall break its neck. And all the firstborn of man among your sons you shall redeem (Ex 13:2, 12-13). “The firstborn of your sons you shall give to Me” (Ex 22:28). "Then you shall say to Pharaoh, `Thus says YHVH: "Israel is My son, My firstborn. So I say to you, let My son go that he may serve Me. But if you refuse to let him go, indeed I will kill your son, your firstborn"'" (Ex 4:22-23).

How is it that YHVH declared Israel to be His firstborn among all the other nations of the earth?

“For you are a holy people to YHVH your God; YHVH your God has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples on the face of the earth. YHVH did not set His love on you nor choose you because you were more in number than any other people, for you were the least of all peoples; but because YHVH loves you, and because He would keep the oath which He swore to your fathers, YHVH has brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you from the house of bondage, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt. Therefore know that YHVH your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments” (Deut 7:6-9).

YHVH set up His Kingdom with the first family when He gave Adam (they) dominion-rule over creation. They were Elohim’s servants-kings, acting as conduits of His life and light to all living things. They were also priests to YHVH, as they walked in a relationship with Him, worshiping in spirit and in truth. This was the beginning of the Melchizedec order of YHVH’s Kingdom on earth. YHVH had already legislated His divine order for this natural family, to be later documented in the Torah, containing the statutes and ordinances that pertain to the family of man and the relationship with Him.

One of those laws, as mentioned above, is, “All firstborn belong to Me”. Thus, ever since YHVH established the family of man, He always had someone in the firstborn position. However, following the story line in the book of Genesis we see that not all firstborn qualified for the position. Some of them lost it because they were not faithful to the will of God, or to their natural fathers.

From the genealogy of Avraham we learn that he was the 20th elder from Adam, and the 10th from Noah (Gen. 5:4-29; 11:10-26). All those specified in the genealogy lists constitute the linage of the firstborn and therefore belonged to YHVH. This is why He calls them “My servants”. Noah, along with all the other firstborn, or patriarchs, were still alive in the days of Avraham. But it was during the days of Avraham that YHVH extended the Birthright from an individual firstborn to an entire nation of firstborn, because of the rise of many nations on earth, with a kingdom government after the order that was established by Nimrod (see Gen 10:8-10; Gen. 11:1-4). Nimrod, whose name means “we will rebel”, set up a counterfeit kingdom to YHVH’s, and had his own king-priests. In contrast to God’s Kingdom he gathered the people unto himself, and ruled over them for the purpose of making a name for man and not for God. YHVH’s Kingdom, on the other hand was (and is) one of ‘multiplying’ and ‘filling’, whose firstborn are His servants for His namesake, and are to bring glory and honor to Him.

For the purpose of setting up His special nation, YHVH made a covenant with Avraham. "Get out of your country, from your family and from your father's house, to a land that I will show you. I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing” (Gen 12:1-2). Because Avraham was a firstborn from the genealogy of firstborn, the nation that would come out of his loins would likewise be a firstborn (nation). The promised son, who was to father the chosen nation, was birthed through divine intervention. Sarah, Avraham’s legitimate wife, who had been barren, as well as by that time infertile (with a womb that was as good as dead because of her age), was chosen by YHVH to demonstrate a redemptive principle; life being brought forth from the dead. YHVH also revealed this principle in the case of two of the other mothers of Israel - Rebecca and Rachel. The Creator was simply showing that this chosen nation was of His will, and not the result of any man’s plan or intention.

With the birth of Esav and Yaacov we witness once more Elohim’s sovereign intervention. YHVH had said to the mother of the twins that she was carrying two nations, and that the older would serve the younger (Gen 25:22-23), thus giving rise to a problem, as Esav was the firstborn. God, however, declared that the nation would be a chosen one, and so arranged that Esav would come out first (had it been otherwise, Yaacov would have been the natural firstborn and not necessarily chosen for that purpose. The fact that the older would serve the younger, according to the word given to their mother, was another disclosure as to whom the birthright would ultimately be given. However, the leadership, or princely portion, still belonged to Esav. So YHVH arranged a day on which Esav believed that he was going to die of hunger. It just happened that Yaacov was stirring up a pot of lentils at the time, and was of course ready to oblige his sibling providing Esav would pay for his meal with the desired birthright. (This was nothing short of a divine appointment). Esav, who consented, thought to himself, ‘what good is a birthright to a dead man, and anyway should I survive I will get the father’s right hand blessing and the double portion eventually’. Rebecca, understanding that if a firstborn does not receive the double portion he cannot qualify to be the family redeemer, as one must have both of those blessings and much more, immediately devised a plan. (from 18/10/2002)

ninth of Av

2011-12-11T19:56:00.000+02:00

Letter 157 (ninth of Av) 17/07/02

The Ninth of Av is very important to note, as it was on this day that both the First and Second Temples were destroyed. Although almost 500 years apart, the judgments fell on the very same date. The loss of the Temples in 586 BC and 70 AD caused heart- wrenching grief to the Jewish community. So much so, that even today this loss is a source of sorrow to many of the religious Jews. Notwithstanding, there is still the promise of a third Temple.

However, what is really sad about this day is that very little attention is paid to the reasons why YHVH caused these two magnificent edifices to be removed. As I was working on the Prayer Psalms this week, I noticed that the theme of some of them was repentance. David understood the relationship between YHVH’s judgments and the conduct of His people. May our weeping and sorrow be more than just over the loss, but rather let the remembrance cause a true heart-felt conviction and confession for our own sin and the sins of our forefathers!

The prophet Daniel also recognized the importance of acknowledgment, conviction, brokenness, and confession in the restoration of YHVH’s plans for both houses of Israel. Thus, the following prayer is not from the Psalms, but is formed from the prayer of Daniel, as it is quite appropriate for this day. If we are ever going to witness the ”restoration of all things”, repentance must be at the forefront of our responsibilities as a redeemed remnant.

Before we turn to Daniel’s prayer, let us look at what was said by Jeremiah, who put his finger on the problem when he pointed out the reason for YHVH’s judgments: "Because they have forsaken Me and made this an alien place, because they have burned incense in it to other gods whom neither they, their fathers, nor the kings of Judah have known, and have filled this place with the blood of the innocent (abortion). They have also built the high places of Baal, to burn their sons with fire for burnt offerings to Baal, which I did not command or speak, nor did it come into My mind” (Jer 19:4-5). “ Many nations will pass by this city; and everyone will say to his neighbor, `why has YHVH done so to this great city?' Then they will answer, `because they have forsaken the covenant of YHVH- Elohey Israel, and worshiped other gods and served them'" (Jer. 22:8-9). "Therefore thus says YHVH - Elohey Tzva’ot (God of the Armies): `Behold, I will bring on Judah and on all the inhabitants of Jerusalem all the doom that I have pronounced against them; because I have spoken to them but they have not heard, and I have called to them but they have not answered'" (Jer. 35:17).

We can learn much from our forefathers’ waywardness, and YHVH’s response to it as the scriptures provide us with many such examples. But, as a result let us also learn the way to recovery and restoration. Daniel’s prayer may provide a starting point.

“O YHVH – Elohey Israel, I set my face toward You, with prayers, supplications, fasting, sackcloth, and ashes. I confess, Abba, Elohi (my God) and acknowledge that You, YHVH, are a great and awesome Elohim. You are faithful to keep Your covenant and mercy with those who love You, and with those who keep Your commandments.

But we have sinned and committed iniquity, we have done wickedly and rebelled, departing from Your precepts and Your judgments. Neither have we heeded Your servants the prophets, who spoke in Your name to our kings and our princes, to our fathers and all the people of the land.

O YHVH - Elohey Tzedek (God of Righteousness), righteousness belongs to You, but to us shame of face, as it is this day--to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and all Israel, those near and those far off in all the countries to which You have driven us, because of the unfaithfulness which we have committed against You.

O Elohey Chesed (God of Mercy), to us belongs shame of face, to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, because we have sinned against You. But to You, Avinu (our Father), belong mercy and forgiveness, even though we have rebelled against You, and have not obeyed Your voice Elohey Emet (God of Truth), nor walked in Your Torah, which You set before us by Your servants the prophets. Yes, all Israel, both houses, Judah and Ephraim, have transgressed Your Torah, and have departed so as not to obey Your voice. Therefore the curse and the oath written in the Torah of Moses, Your servant, have been poured out on us, because we have sinned against You, El Shofet (Judge).

You have been a testimony of Your words, which You spoke against us and against our judges who judged us, by bringing upon us a great disaster; for under the whole heaven such has never been done as what has been done to Jerusalem and to Your Houses. As it is written in the Torah of Moses, all this disaster has come upon us; yet we have not brought our prayers before You, Yeshua’teynu (our Salvation), that we might turn from our iniquities and understand Your truth.

Therefore, You have brought this disaster upon us, and kept us mindful of it. For You are righteous in all the works which You have done, though we have not obeyed Your voice.

And now, YHVH – Moshi’ey’nu (our Savior/Deliverer), who brought us, Your people, out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and made Yourself a name, as it is this day--we have sinned, we have done wickedly! O El Ne’eman (Faithful God), according to all Your righteousness, I pray, let Your anger and Your fury be turned away from Your city Jerusalem, Your holy mountain.

Now therefore, El Ro’eh (God Who Sees and Provides), hear the prayer of Your servant, and my supplications, and for Your sake cause Your face to shine on Your sanctuary, which is desolate. O Elohey’nu (our God), Ro’eynu (our Shepherd), incline Your ear and hear; open Your eyes and see our desolations, and the city which is called by Your name; for we do not present our supplications before You because of our righteous deeds, but because of Your great mercies.

O YHVH - Elohey Chesed (God of Mercy), hear! O El HaKavod (God of Glory), forgive! O El Olam (Eternal God), listen and act! Do not delay for Your own sake, Elohey Tziyon (God of Zion), for Your city and Your people are called by Your name.

Amen!

Mysteries

2011-12-04T21:53:00.001+02:00

Letter 153 (More Mysteries) 21/06/02

This week I would like to develop the theme I touched upon last week. In the past, as well as more recently, I have come across believers (Christians) who tend to make statements such as: “I am a Gentile, I do not feel in any way that I’m of the natural seed of Israel, but in Jesus I have all the promises that belong to Israel”. It is nice to claim positive promises, but would these assertors be so quick to make them had they considered the responsibilities that go along with being a chosen First Born nation? Yes, formally you were goy’im, that is, those identified with the nations, but now you are brought into the commonwealth (national identity) of Israel (ref. Eph. 2:12). Was not the “fullness of the Goy’im” promised to Ephraim? How about identifying with that promise? Does the mystery of the blindness of Israel have something to do with ignorance of one’s natural heritage? You may also ask, is Menashe’s name (“forgetfulness”) not prophetic of the destiny of the people connected to the promised blessings (Gen. 48:19)?

As we know, the writers of the New Testament had no other Scriptures but the Tanach (Old Testament) upon which to base their revelation and teaching of the mystery of the Gospel (Eph. 6:19). Most of their audience had no understanding whatsoever of the Hebrew Scriptures, or the Septuagint (the first translation of the O.T. into a foreign - Greek – language), let alone personally own a scroll. Guttenberg press did not exist at the time, nor did the Gideons or the Bible Society to distribute copies of YHVH’s Word. This is probably the reason why Paul writes, “And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in the Messiah. I fed you with milk and not with solid food; for until now you were not able to receive it, and even now you are still not able” (1 Cor. 3:1-2). Before stating the above Paul says: “However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory” (1 Cor.2:6-7). He then tops it off by stating that the apostles should be regarded as servants of the Messiah, and stewards of the mysteries of Elohim (ref. 1 Cor. 4:1).

Let me emphasize again: the apostles’ understanding of the fifteen or so mysteries that they wrote about were based on the Tanach. Yeshua also spoke of these mysteries, although in parable form. One of those mysteries is found in Paul’s address to the “former Gentiles” or “wild olive branches” who used to be “far off, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants” (ref. Rom 11:25 Eph 2:12). Who are those who are described as being “far off”?

“Thus says YHVH - Elohim: ‘Although I have cast them far off among the Gentiles (or Nations - (Goy’im), and although I have scattered them among the countries, yet I shall be a little sanctuary for them in the countries where they have gone"' (Eze. 11:16). Who was YHVH addressing through the prophet Ezekiel?

"O Adon, righteousness belongs to You, but to us shame of face, as it is this day--to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and all Israel, those near and those far off in all the countries to which You have driven them, because of the unfaithfulness which they have committed against You”(Dan. 9:7). Who is the Prophet Daniel addressing, defining their location as being “far off”

"Therefore say, `Thus says YHVH -Elohim: "I will gather you from the peoples, assemble you from the countries where you have been scattered, and I will give you the land of Israel.' And they will go there, and they will take away all its detestable things and all its abominations from there. Then I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within them, and take the stony heart out of their flesh, and give them a heart of flesh, that they may walk in My statutes and keep My judgments and do them; and they shall be My people, and I will be their God” (Eze 11:17-20). This sounds like a promise to a people who is “not His people”, and whose God “He is not”. Strangely enough, these very prophecies, regarding the destiny of Israel, are found in Hosea. YHVH said to Israel (and not to Judah): "Call his name Lo-Ammi, for you are not My people, and I will not be your God. Yet the number of the children of Israel shall be as the sand of the sea, which cannot be measured or numbered. And it shall come to pass in the place where it was said to them, `You are not My people,' There it shall be said to them, `You are sons of the living God'” (Hos. 9-10; Rom 8:19).

YHVH opens up His dissertation, in Ezekiel 11:15 by addressing the ones who are “far off”. "Son of man, your brethren, your relatives, your countrymen, and all the house of Israel in its entirety, are those about whom the inhabitants of Jerusalem have said, `Get far off from YHVH; this land has been given to us as a possession.’”
Doesn’t that sound familiar, as even today some from Judah (mostly Messianic) are still saying to the repentant and restored returnees of Ephraim those very words?
Are we dealing here with a mystery of blindness on both sides of the family?
Is it possible that Ephraim’s prophetic destiny is more than just fruitfulness (in the quantitative sense of the word)? Is it possible that the blessing of becoming the “m’lo ha-goy’im” – “fullness of the gentiles” (or nations, in Gen.48:19), may also mean the “fullness of heathenism”? Israel (Ephraim) always followed idols, and was declared by YHVH a harlot, an adulteress and an idolater; one who loved the ways of the nations. Thus YHVH gave Israel over to becoming the ‘fullness’ of that very desire, but not forever… only until their iniquity would become mature and full. Are we touching here upon another mystery - the mystery of iniquity (2 Thes. 2:7, Eph. 2:1-3)? But, then, as a testimony of YHVH’s faithfulness, mercies and love, He literally raises up iniquitous Israel from her grave of sin and death, right in the midst of those heathen nations, and calls her/them “sons of the living God”, implementing His prophetic word to them exactly as promised (Hos. 1:10-11, being another mystery). It is hard to imagine YHVH calling this harlot wife of His a “virgin” (Jer. 31:21), but nevertheless He does. This too may constitute a mystery – a double one: the “mystery of our change” (1 Cor.15:51-53), and the “mystery of the faith” (1 Tim 3:9). The prophet Hosea concludes his writing with the following note: “Who is wise? Let him understand these things. Who is prudent? Let him know them. For the ways of YHVH are right; the righteous walk in them, but transgressors stumbles in them” (Hos. 14:9).

"The secret things belong to YHVH - Elohim, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this Torah” (Deut. 29:29). “Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your Torah
(Psa 119:18)!

2011-11-26T21:00:00.001+02:00

Letter 152 (Mystery of His Will) 14/06/02

While on our trip last week, we had the opportunity to read some articles written by fellow Two-House teachers. In each case I found that some of the conclusions reached watered down the significance of YHVH’s faithfulness to His covenant with our forefathers. I discussed this with Rimona, and only found myself getting more upset. Many thoughts and scriptures were racing through my head, like a stampede of African ‘be-wilder-ment’ beasts. In the course of this past week I talked about it at length with a friend, and with his help I settled back down to grazing in the pastures of YHVH’s rest. It is from this position that I hope to share a couple of thoughts on the subject of the Elohim of Israel’s faithfulness to His own will and covenant.

As I was pondering the content of this week’s Prayer Psalm (number 44), a little portion toward the end seemed to define the reason for my aggravation. “Help us, El Yeshu’atenu (God of our Salvation), not to forget Your name, nor to deal falsely with Your covenant. Protect our heart so that it will not turn back, and our steps so that they will not depart from Your ways.”

“… Nor to deal falsely with Your covenant”. That was where I located the problem in these articles. I felt YHVH’s will and word, in relationship to the covenant that He made with our forefathers, was somehow being compromised and that we were not being faithful witnesses. In Ephesians 1:11 we read, “In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will…” Yeshua taught his disciples to pray: “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven”. Again in verse 9 of Ephesians 1, He says that “He has made known to us THE MYSTERY OF HIS WILL, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself”, and that it had to do with an administration, or a governmental order for the fullness of time, which He was summing up in the Messiah.

What is this mystery that YHVH is “summing up in the Messiah” that has to do with His will, and with an administration suitable for these times?

I’m sure the question has a hundred possible answers. One that I would draw our attention to, has to do with the mystery of the “I will” of the Almighty, who not only stated what He wills to do, but has also sealed His statements by swearing by His own name. In the covenant that He made with Abraham, Sarah, Isaac and Jacob lies this mystery of the “will of Elohim”.

The following are some of the “I will” statements of the God of Israel with in the context of the covenant.
“I will give you a land…
I will make you a great nation…
I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing…
I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed" (Gen 12:2-3).

“I will give to you and your descendents all the land which you see, forever…
I will make your descendants as the dust of the earth; so that if a man could number the dust of the earth, then your descendants also could be numbered” (Gen: 13:14-16).

This is followed by YHVH’s “I will”, confirmed to Abraham and to the future seed of promise that Sarah would give birth to:
"I will make My covenant between Me and you, and I will multiply you exceedingly…
I will make you exceedingly fruitful…
I will make nations of you, and kings shall come from you…
I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you in their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and your descendants after you…
I will give to you and your descendants after you the land in which you are a stranger, all the land of Canaan, as an everlasting possession;
I will be their God."
(Gen. 17:2, 6-8).

“I will bless Sarah your wife, she will bear a son and will become the mother of nations (goyim)…
I will establish my covenant with him (Isaac) as an everlasting covenant…
I will bless him…
I will make him fruitful and will greatly increase his numbers…
I will make him a great nation…
I will establish My covenant with Isaac” (Gen.17:16, 19-21).

After Abraham’s test of giving to YHVH his only begotten son, YHVH again reiterates His will.

"By Myself I have sworn, says YHVH, because you have done this thing, and have not withheld your son, your only son, blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply your descendants as the stars of the heaven and as the sand which is on the seashore; and your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies. In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice" (Gen. 22:16-18).

After Isaac returned from Egypt to the land, YHVH again confirmed the covenant by His “I will” statements.

“I will be with you and bless you; for to you and your descendants I give all these lands…
I will perform the oath which I swore to Abraham your father…
I will make your descendants multiply as the stars of heaven…
I will give to your descendants all these lands; and in your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed”(Gen 26:3-5)

Then Jacob (the chosen nation) was brought into the covenant of the “I will” of the Elohim of his fathers in a dream.

“I will give to you and to your seed the land on which you lie. Your descendants shall be as the dust of the earth; you shall spread abroad to the west and the east, to the north and the south; and in you and in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed. Behold, I am with you and I will keep you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have spoken to you" Gen 28:13-15.

The question is, how will we ever know that YHVH was faithful to His covenant with these natural men, unless at some point in history He identifies each and every descendent of the seed of these forefathers, and gives to them all the land that was promised? Actually, one of the job descriptions of the true Messiah of Israel had to do with this very task. He was not to sow the seed, but rather to gather the fruit, so that in the time of the harvest He, the Messiah, would bring forth a true testimony to a covenant that was made four thousands years ago. He will prove “the greatness of the day of Jezreel” (God’s sowing, Hos. 1:11). When a seed is sown in a field it cannot be seen; it lies in a hidden state. Thus a mystery refers to something that has been hidden. Is it in this generation that the mystery of YHVH’s will is being unveiled? Will we be a faithful testimony to that reality?“Help us, El Yeshu’atenu (God of our Salvation), not to forget Your name, nor to deal falsely with Your covenant. Protect our heart so that it will not turn back, and our steps so that they will not depart from Your ways.

Holocaust

2011-10-29T10:57:00.002+02:00

(Holocaust) 15/04/2010

This past week the nation of Israel's sirens sounded in memory of the millions that lost their lives in the Holocaust. Each year, in the course of the preceding day and on the day itself testimonies, movies and documentaries are broadcast over the TV and Radio. Our daughter has always loved the story of Ann Frank; so much so that when she was in grade school she did a special study and report on Ann's life. When she was in high school she visited some of the concentration camps in Poland. Yesterday we watched the movie, The Diary of Ann Frank, with another couple who are visiting with us from the States. While watching the episodes of the Nazis hunting the Jews from their hiding places, with the cooperation of some of the local population, I was reminded of several letters that I had sent out in the form of warnings. If you recall, I mentioned that the Islamic hunters were spreading their nets into the nations (letter 434 and "The Forward"), but what crossed my mind was that the next holocaust will not be Nazis hunting for the Jews (house of Judah), but other hunters who will be looking for the House of Israel/Ephraim.

During the First World War many of the top German officers served in Turkey, as the two countries formed an alliance. These officers observed and learned how the Islamic powers systematically annihilated about one million Armenians, while the world stood by, because of fear or indifference. Hitler, seeing that a nation could literally get away with ethnic cleansing with the world turning a blind eye, felt assured that he could do the same to the Jews, expecting a similar non-response. Years later, in the wake of the growing persecutions in Nazi occupied Europe many from the house of Judah were seeking asylum in Ephraimite nations (and other locations), but the doors were firmly closed. Suddenly a question popped into my mind: If and when the hunters begin to come after the House of Ephraim, will the house of Judah open their doors and let them into Israel?

Ephraim

Day of fasting

2011-10-02T14:00:00.000+02:00

This week, in a conversation with friends visiting from the U.S., the subject of New Orleans came up and evolved into an interesting discussion. It was mentioned that some people believe that the destruction was a direct result of America’s policies toward Israel. The Muslims, for their part, are claiming that the devastation, affecting millions in the southern United States, occurred because of the American invasion of Iraq. Then there are those who believe that YHVH is judging iniquity and sin as He did Sodom and Gomorra. And according to the more pragmatic ones, global warming has brought about the problems, while yet others are attributing the situation to the random activities of “Mother Nature” (coupled with human negligence and mismanagement).

But be the reasons what they may, the fact is that hundreds of thousands have been bereft of loved ones, left without homes, jobs and communities to return to. Likewise in Israel, the Disengagement left many without jobs, homes and a future. Overnight several thousand people went from security to uncertainty, confidence to despair. And so, regardless of the reasons that brought about these distressing situations, what should our response be?

As we all know, the Day of Kippur is ahead of us, a day for fasting and afflicting our souls. Let us take a moment to consider our true motivation for the fast. As I was doing some of my own stock taking, I was reminded of our ancient ancestors in Jerusalem who were quite assured of their righteousness. Seeking YHVH daily they seemed to search out His ways, they did not forsake His ordinances and were rigorous in performing His word. As a nation they did what they thought was acceptable in His eyes. Yet, on the day of the fast, although they afflicted their souls, they also complained that YHVH did not see nor take notice of them (ref Isaiah 58:2-3). YHVH’s response to their piousness and complaint was short and sweet. Being aware of the true condition of their hearts, He describes their fast and the motivation behind it: “Indeed you fast for strife and debate, and to strike with the fist of wickedness… to make your voice [be] heard on high” (Isaiah 58:4), so that He would look down at their sackcloth and ashes.

YHVH then goes on to explain to them how He sees this day of fasting: "Is this not the fast that I have chosen: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke…the pointing of the finger and speaking wickedness? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; when you see the naked, that you cover him, and not hide yourself from your own flesh?” (Isaiah 58:6-7). These religionists no doubt were very offended by these words. YHVH, however, went on to point to the right kind of fast, telling them that if they would do what He instructed the rewards would be everything that they had ever desired and more.

“If you extend your soul to the hungry and satisfy the afflicted soul, then your light shall dawn in the darkness, and your darkness shall be as the noonday. Your light shall break forth like the morning, your healing shall spring forth speedily, and your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of YHVH shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and YHVH will answer; You shall cry, and He will say, 'Here I am’. YHVH will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones; you shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail. Those from among you shall build the old waste places; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; and you shall be called the Repairer of the Breach, the Restorer of Streets to Dwell In” (Isaiah 58:10-12).

Going back to our subject of Sodom and Gomorra, my friend asked me what was the sin that caused YHVH to judge them. I gave him the standard answer: sodomy, homosexuality etc. In response he pointed out an observation made by the prophet Ezekiel millennia after the devastation of these two cities: "Look, this was the iniquity of your sister Sodom: She and her daughter had pride, fullness of food, and abundance of idleness; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. And they were haughty and committed abomination before Me; therefore I took them away as I saw fit” (Ezekiel 16:49-50).

It was no other than the virtuous Jerusalem which was being addressed here and compared to Sodom, in addition YHVH also decries the following: "Your elder sister is Samaria, who dwells with her daughters to the north of you…” (ve. 46).

As the Day of Atonement draws near, oh children of the sons of Jerusalem and Samaria, let us pray that YHVH’s words will fill our heart and that we will gain an understanding of the kind of fast required of us, so that we may truly be pleasing to our Elohim.

ALL OR NOTHING

2011-06-19T11:21:00.007+03:00

This past week, in prayer and sharing with others, the Spirit was pointing out that in order for the two houses of Israel to come together into the oneness of YHVH's life, each will have to be cleansed of everything that is not of Him. The House of Judah has tried to keep the Torah, while the House of Israel made a "go" at the righteousness of Faith. But each has fallen short of the goal that has been set before them; Judah has rejected the Messiah of Israel, and Ephraim the Torah of Moses. The solution seems quite obvious: both must come to the recognition of the whole counsel of YHVH, and dispense with that which isn't of Him (His Word).

Reading the book of Hebrews, I came across the following passage: "For if we go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain terrifying expectation of judgment, and the fury of a fire which will consume the adversaries. Anyone who has set aside the Torah of Moses dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. How much severer punishment do you think he will deserve who has trampled under foot the Son of Elohim, and has regarded as unclean the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has insulted the Spirit of grace?" (Hebrews 10:26-29).

What stood out to me was the statement: "if anyone sets aside the Torah of Moses [he] dies without mercy"!! This is what Ephraim had done and has been reaping the consequences ever since. In addition, aside from rejecting Torah (which is the Word) he has also trampled underfoot the Son of Elohim by not living out His holiness.

Yeshua scolded the devoutly religious for observing the easy and less weighty Torah laws and neglecting the more substantial ones, around which they worked their way out somehow, thus rendering themselves hypocrites. "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier provisions of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others" (Matthew 23:23).

Now, many in Christendom would maintain that they, on the other hand, are fulfilling the weightier matters, but in so doing often fail to take responsibility and attend to the other Torah requirements. Could it be this kind of attitude that the writer of Hebrews was addressing in the above scripture? We really cannot pick and choose when it comes to YHVH's Word, otherwise we could find ourselves "halting between two opinions" or, put another way, being "doubly minded". YHVH's Word made flesh - His Son - never made light of any of the commandments.

Another area of the Word that seems to be neglected, is the Word of Elohim spoken by the mouths of His holy prophets from of old. Daniel, in his repentance prayers emphasized this fact:

"We have sinned and committed iniquity; we have done wickedly and rebelled, even by departing from Your precepts and Your judgments. Neither have we heeded Your servants the prophets, who spoke in Your name to our kings and our princes, to our fathers and all the people of the land" (Daniel 9:5-6).

If we reject or lay aside any aspect of YHVH's Word, we are committing a sin of which we need to repent not in thought and intent only, but also by deeds/actions. When we live by the power of the Spirit of Holiness, we will be living in the Spirit of the Word and thus we will know the Son of the Most High. The "Word" will become life in us and we will find ourselves fulfilling (that is doing) the Torah and the prophets.

Ephraim

IS YESHUA THE MESSIAH? II

2011-06-06T14:31:00.005+03:00

In last week's letter I quoted from Dr Tabor's book the following assessment of the role of the Son of David: “When a descendent of David appears in the world, re-gathers the Tribes of Israel, disarms the nations of the world, restores the Temple with the Presence of YHVH, and sets up a world-wide government in which the TORAH is taught to all nations… then we will know who he is.” I then stressed that the above was and is in the process of being fulfilled through the "oneness in Spirit" of the Father and Son, but not without the absolutely essential foundations of redemption that He laid as the suffering Messiah (ref Isaiah 53).

In previous letters I had also made mention of the fact that the role of a kinsman redeemer is to give up his life for the sake of the brethren. Because Yeshua gave Himself to that task, YHVH raised Him up to a position of glory, so that He (YHVH) through His glorified Son could accomplish what He has spoken through the mouths of His prophets of old, especially regarding the restoration of the Kingdom.

In looking at the scriptural parameters for the Son of David, we discover that this righteous individual sits, with righteousness, justice, mercy and truth, upon the throne of David as He sets up a Kingdom that has no end (ref. Isaiah 9:7; 16:5). It is by an everlasting covenant, according to the “sure mercies of David” (Isaiah 55:3), by which His throne is established and guaranteed.

It was only when Yeshua was in position of absolute power and authority (see Rev. 5:12-14) that He was able to bestow upon His subjects the “new creation” life, characterized by His own nature with such traits as: Servitude to righteousness and holiness, reconciliation, son-ship, heir-ship and much more. Following Him, they are in a triumphal procession, while also being transformed into His image from glory to glory. However, this all could not have taken place, had not only Yeshua been the sacrificial lamb and suffering servant, but also His subjects needed to be in that position. Thus, His death is theirs, having to carry it in their bodies and be in all ways identified with His suffering. Without this foundation, they would not have been in a place to be supernaturally transformed, so that the Kingdom of the greater Son of David could inhabit them, rule their hearts and prepare them for that which will become evident in days to come.

Philippians 2:6-11 summarizes very concisely the metamorphic-transition, if you will, of Messiah, from the “suffering servant” to His role as King and Messiah Son of David, including the required prerequisites: …Who, being in the form of Elohim did not consider it robbery to be equal with Elohim, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore Elohim also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Yeshua every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Messiah Yeshua is lord, to the glory of Elohim the Father (refer also Revelation 5:12-13; 11:15, 17).

The apostle Paul, writing to Timothy says: "Remember that Yeshua the Messiah, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel" (2 Timothy 2:8). Here we see that Paul recognized Yeshua's Messiahship as being intrinsically linked to David's seed, and by implication to the inherent role of the prophesied descendant of that dynasty. Yeshua was declared king at His birth, and at His death. And while He is in a progressive process of future fulfillments of His role as Son of David, the parts that have already been fulfilled serve to reinforce the fact that that is who He is and was. What is more, as mentioned above, it is only because of the extent of His authority and power that He is able to "share" His throne with His own, now and into the future (ref. Revelation 5:10), when the latter will be seen “sitting on the throne of David” (ref. Jeremiah 17:25, 22:4).

As we honor this season of Pesach and Unleavened bread, let us also remember that we must pick up our stake and follow the Lamb (Matthew 16:24), keeping the commandments and the testimony of Yeshua the Messiah (ref. Revelation 12:17).

Ephraim and Rimona

IS YESHUA THE MESSIAH? I

2011-05-20T17:54:00.004+03:00

In Dr. James D. Tabor's book, "Restoring Abrahamic Faith", the author poses the question: "Was Jesus the Nazarene the Messiah?" Within the context of this section, he restates the question as follows: "Did Jesus fulfill what all the Prophets declare the Davidic King will accomplish? The answer to that question is clearly 'no'"; end of quote. He then sites the prophecies that the "Davidic" King should fulfill, concluding, "When a descendent of David appears in the world, re-gathers the Tribes of Israel, disarms the nations of the world, restores the Temple with the Presence of YHVH, and sets up a world-wide government in which the TORAH is taught to all nations—surely all can agree that such a one is the long awaited Messiah ben [son of] David"; end of quote.

This observation is not any different from that of the disciples (before they were filled with the Spirit), who also believed that that was the reason for Yeshua's coming. Hence they were extremely disappointed when He died and the prophecies pertaining to the Davidic Kingdom were not fulfilled. Therefore, after His resurrection, while standing on the Mount of Olives, they asked Yeshua again: "Is it at this time that you are going to restore the Kingdom to Israel?" (Acts 1:6) Up until that point the words of the prophets, as well as the angel Gabriel's words to Yeshua's mother on that issue, remained unfulfilled.

Notwithstanding, after Yeshua's last Passover Seder, He said something to His disciples which disclosed the secret of how the Father intended to accomplish and fulfill all that has been spoken through the mouths of His prophets of old, especially those relating to Messiah ben David.

John the disciple wrote down Yeshua's words, which are recorded in chapters 14 through 17 of his gospel. Yeshua explained to the disciples, in no uncertain terms, that He was going to prepare a place for them in His Father's house, and that He would then return and bring them to Himself, so that they would also be where He would be (ref verses 2-3). Yeshua then added: "And where I go you know, and the way you know." (John 14:4). Following these words Thomas raised the question: "Master, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?" (John 14:5). It may be stated that Yeshua's answer to this question has become Christianity's theme scripture, but if taken out of context one will miss the reason as to why He responded the way He did: "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me; if you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him" (John 14:6-7). This answer also stirred Philip to ask a question. It seems that Yeshua made comments that caused His listeners to wonder what He was actually talking about. Yeshua knew His disciples well and what they were thinking, as they still had in mind that they were following an earthly king who had come to set up what they understood to be the Davidic Kingdom.

Yeshua's answer to Philip's question will set the stage for understanding the coming of YHVH's Spirit and His/Yeshua's "Davidic" reign: "Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, 'Show us the Father'? Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works'" (John 14:9-10). The raising of Lazarus, for example, was "the work" of Yeshua, but was the work of His Father in response to Yeshua's prayer (ref. John 11:41).

If there was one thing that Yeshua was trying to get across to His followers, it was that His Father was in Him and He was in the Father (ref. John 10:38, 20; 17:21,23). The Father's life and His Spirit were in His Son, thus in essence they were one (ref. John 10:30). John, who seemed to have been the closest to Yeshua's heart, understood this relationship between YHVH and His Son. Yeshua making this fact even clearer in His prayer after the Seder: "that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one" (John 17:21-23).
Ephraim

A DEFEATED ENEMY

2011-05-15T13:34:00.004+03:00

Paul the apostle in writing to us today, says that "our warfare is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers in heavenly places" (Ephesians 6:12). Then he adds that YHVH has already disarmed them through the crucifixion/sacrifice of His Son: "Having disarmed principalities and powers, He [Elohim] made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it" [Yeshua's death]" (Colossians 2:15). For had those rulers of this age known that they would be stripped of their powers, they would not have crucified the Master of glory (see 1 Corinthians 2:8). But on the other hand, the scriptures tell us that: "the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in Elohim for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of Elohim, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Messiah" (2 Corinthians 10:4-5). John then adds that the: "purpose the Son of Elohim was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil." (1 John 3:8). What are those works, strongholds, fortresses and high places that we are to tare down and where are they?

The apostles commentaries tell us that once we were sons of disobedience as were the rest and that we lived under the power and influence of the nature of another kingdom (ref. Ephesians 2:1-3). During that time our soul, especially our mind, memories, and emotions had taken on the characteristics and expressions of that realm. Those traits were seen in what Paul describes as the "works of the flesh". John described them as "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life" (1 John 2:16). Peter writes "lay aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking" (1 Peter 2:1)…and 14 as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance" (1 Peter 1:14).

Our spiritual task masters e.i. the demonic forces, through the means of thought, word and deed, built in us fortresses, and strongholds of the nature of Sin. Paul describes some of those as: "unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of Elohim, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful" (Romans 1:29-31)… "adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of Elohim" (Galatians 5:19-21). Yeshua also mentions some of the above when describing the heart of man (ref. Mark 7:21-22). However, not only Yeshua came to eradicate these but He has made it possible for us to also tare down and obliterate them from within our own lives. For Elohim is now in us, by the Spirit to will and to do for His good pleasure (ref. Philippians 2:13), which is to destroy the works of Satan and to tare down his kingdom.

"Therefore put to death your members [the embodiment of sin] which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Because of these things the wrath of Elohim is coming upon the sons of disobedience, in which you yourselves once walked when you lived in them. But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth. Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him" (Colossians 3:5-10).
"And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them, for it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light" (Ephesians 5:11-13).

"But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Yeshua the Messiah, His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us" (1 John 1:7-10).

YHVH's feast of Pesach is right around the corner. It is wonderful to celebrate the traditions of this feast day i.e. the Exodus of thousands of years ago, which was a mere shadow of that which YHVH brought into the light through Yeshua. I hope we will keep in mind what our great Deliverer accomplished for us through His Son. Spiritually speaking He put to death the "Sinner Man", and judicially dealt a death blow to Satan's rights to humanity. However, the reality of these facts are still being worked out through a remnant of His first fruit, first born company. I pray that the beginning of this new year which leads us to the Feast of Pesach will be filled with the light of revelation knowledge and understanding of this great deliverance and exodus out of the realm of "sin and death".

"Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage" (Hebrews 2:14-15).

"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us" (Ephesians 3:20).
"Work out your salvation with fear and trembling" (Philipians 2:12). Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of Elohim" (2 Corinthians 7:1).
Ephraim

SHA'KED (almond)

2011-05-06T12:23:00.004+03:00

February 12, 2010
Again, we are in the season of the blossoming of the almond tree. Because we have had an exceptionally warm winter, we noticed, already in mid January that some of the almond trees in Jerusalem were in bloom. Thus, although a little earlier than normal this year, the blooming of the almond tree does start, as a rule, in Jerusalem and from there spreads to Samaria and to the rest of the country. We are all familiar with the prophetic usage of this tree, and the meaning of its name.

The word for almond in Hebrew is “sha’ked”, the root verb of which is “to watch diligently”. This is well illustrated in Jeremiah 1:11-12, which reads: “Moreover the word of YHVH came to me, saying, 'Jeremiah, what do you see?’ And I said, ‘I see a branch of an almond tree’. Then YHVH said to me, ‘you have seen well, for I am watching [persistently and with diligence] over My word to perform it.'"We have written in the past about the relationship between the olive tree, which represents "the house of Jacob", and the almond trees, that are especially prolific here in Samaria (and also in Judean hills), strewn among the many olive groves. The almond trees' pink and white spotlights-splashes burst forth and glow, highlighting and testifying to the olive trees that YHVH is diligently watching over His Word to perform it. What a wonderful ray of hope YHVH gives to us annually, which also heralds the beginning of the year just ahead and His feast days! What comes to mind is the clarion call: "Come, and let us go up to the mountain of YHVH, to the house of the Elohim of Jacob; He will teach us His ways, and we shall walk in His paths." For out of Zion shall go forth the Torah, and the word of YHVH from Jerusalem" (Isaiah 2:3)! How appropriate that the almond blossoms are first seen in Jerusalem and then spread to Judea and Samaria, reminding us of Yeshua's answer to His disciples, when they asked Him about the restoration of the kingdom to Israel: "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8). Now, after two thousands years the good news of the hope of Israel has been, and still is being witnessed to in all nations. As evidence of this fact, we are seeing the hearts of the children of the forefathers turning back to their true identity, as they remember the Torah of Moses and the prophets. They are being witnesses, like the "sha'ked", to the faithfulness of the covenant keeping Elohim of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Our hearts are grieved over the many things that are taking place in the land of our inheritance, but yet YHVH will remain faithful to watch (almond = sha’ked - to be diligent) over His Word and promises to Israel, the olive tree. We find that our hearts are aching, as did Yeshua's when He wept over Jerusalem, or like Paul's, whose pain he expressed with the following: “I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Messiah for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh… who are Israelites” (Romans 9:2-4).

With the situation again brewing on the Lebanese border, and with Iran making its claims of nuclear capabilities, and now almost daily attempts by radical Palestinian groups or individuals to attack Israeli citizens and soldiers, we as YHVH's watchmen must be alert to what He is doing in the midst of these intensifying conditions. Primarily, He is looking to make sure that the spiritual enemy is defeated and overcome in our own lives and relationships. Yeshua came to destroy the works of the enemy, so may we be about His business and bring down every high tower (thought) that exalts itself against the knowledge of Elohim (ref. 2Corithians 10:3-4). As we clear the spiritual atmosphere around us, we will be able to peer with greater clarity into the earthly realm, as well as into YHVH's intents and purposes while He establishes His kingdom on earth, as it is in Heaven.

Ephraim

OFFERING BY FIRE

2011-03-30T11:12:00.003+02:00

February 05, 2010

Those of you who have been following these letters, have most likely noticed a key biblical pattern of first fruit and firstborn belonging to Elohim (ref. Numbers 3:13; Exodus 34:19), which I have been referring to quite often. From the very beginning, starting with Cain and Abel, this principle was to be kept by offering up the first fruit as a whole burnt offering (ref. Genesis 4: 2-4). Israel was also to keep this statute at all times, as a reminder that they were "YHVH's firstborn" who did not belong to themselves.

Offering up these sacrifices, was not for the purpose of appeasing an angry god. It was simply to demonstrate that YHVH claimed that which belonged to Him through fire, that is, a burnt offering. However, Elohim never commanded the firstborn of man to be given to Him in this way, but did require, never-the-less, the parent to redeem the child with a specific animal or grain offering that was to be consumed by fire. The only one who was faced with having to offer up his firstborn in fire, as it were, was Abraham, whom YHVH addressed with the following: "Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love… offer him there as a burnt offering"(Genesis 22:2). As a firstborn himself, Abraham knew only too well that his son did not belong to him. We know the outcome of the story, as it foreshadowed the greatest offering this world will ever know.

When instructing YHVH's people, Moses warned them that YHVH "your Elohim is a consuming fire, a jealous Elohim" (Deuteronomy 4:24). Thus, the first time that YHVH revealed Himself in fire was when He stood between man and the Tree of Life, at the entrance to the Garden of Eden as the flaming sword (ref. Genesis 3:24). He was again seen in a vision, when He cut the covenant with Abram, after the latter cut the animals in half: "And it came to pass, when the sun went down and it was dark, that behold, there appeared a smoking oven and a burning torch that passed between those pieces" (Genesis 15:17). Moses saw and heard Him in the fire that did not consume the bush (ref. Exodus 3:2). In the wilderness the People of Israel saw fire every night over the also tabernacle (Exodus 40:38). Above all, they witnessed the mountain burning with fire, when YHVH's voice spoke out (ref. Exodus 24:17; Deuteronomy 5:23-24). Nadav and Abihu, Aharon's sons, had a personal encounter with YHVH as fire, which consumed them, for offering up strange fire (ref. Leviticus 10:1-2). Elijah and the prophets of Baal experienced YHVH's presence, when He came down as fire and consumed the offering, the altar and everything around it (ref. 1 Kings 18:38). There are many more examples of YHVH revealing Himself as fire, but the main purpose for offering the firstborn as a proverbial burnt offering, was to show YHVH's "method" when He appropriates to Himself that which belongs to Him. The affect that fire has upon the object that it burns, in this case the sacrifice, is, if you will, a total fusion with the object while it is being consumed. In other words, it becomes one with the fire.

When John the Immerser came on the scene of history, and was baptizing in water, he said of Yeshua that He would immerse His people in the Spirit of Holiness and fire (ref. Matthew 3:11; Luke 3:16). As evidence of this pronouncement, on the day of Shavuot (Pentecost) fire was seen over the heads of the disciples, as they were being filled with the Spirit.
The presence of the Spirit, in those who received it, has many meanings and functions, but the one that we are looking at is that of "fire" and its relationship to the burnt offering. We, who have had our identity as YHVH's firstborn nation Israel, restored to us by the Spirit, can expect to be placed in the fires as His burnt offering. YHVH is taking us back to Himself by placing us on the altars of situations and circumstances. "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Yeshua the Messiah, (1 Peter 1: 6-7 emphasis added). This is why Yeshua came, as our kinsman redeemer and baptizer in the Holy Spirit and Fire, so that we, as a nation, will become that which was foretold about us: "The house of Jacob shall be a fire, and the house of Joseph a flame; but the house of Esau shall be stubble; they shall kindle them and devour them, and no survivor shall remain of the house of Esau, for YHVH has spoken" (Obadiah 1:18).

Ephraim

LIFE OUT OF DEATH

2011-02-11T14:03:00.003+02:00

Jan 29, 2010
In last week's letter, I mentioned Paul’s willingness to give up his life in Messiah for the sake of his brethren. It is hard to believe that anyone, after coming to faith and having revelation-knowledge of the “new creation” being, that we are in Yeshua, would be willing to lay it down for the sake of others. However, in the course of this week it dawned on me that Paul was willing to do that which was/is the kinsman redeemer's obligation, so that life could issue out of death.

The concept of “life out of death” is central to the redemption idea. Thus Paul became a witness, in his very being, to the traits which characterize the “new creation” person, brought forth in the image and likeness of his Redeemer, when he was willing to be cut off, or accursed, from Messiah “for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh” (Romans 9:3). In essence, when Yeshua’s life through the Holy Spirit, invaded Paul, it came with the Redeemer’s willingness to give up his life, so that others may be its recipients. Paul made this principle also an essential part of his teaching: “always carrying about in the body the dying of the Yeshua, that the life of Yeshua also may be manifested in our body. For we who live are always delivered to death for Yeshua's sake, that the life of Yeshua also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So then death is working in us, but life in you” (2 Corinthians 4:10-12).

Moses, too, acted as a redeemer par excellence, on behalf of the Children of Israel, when he addressed YHVH after the Golden Calf episode, begging Him to “forgive their sin -- but if not, I pray, blot me out [in their place] of Your book which You have written" (Exodus 32:32).

Our father Abraham laid down his life for the sake of his nephew Lot. This is seen after the battle, in which the four kings defeated the five kings. One of those was the king of Sodom, and since Lot was residing in Sodom, he was taken captive with all his belongings. Abraham, not only rescued his dead brother’s son, but also retrieved all that was lost by the five kings (see Genesis 14).

"No greater love has any man than he lay down his life for his brother" (1John 3:16). The one who is willing to do so is indeed acting as a kinsman redeemer, in the true sense of the word. Yeshua came as a first-born prince, and a potential kinsman redeemer in the family of Jacob/Israel. Why "potential"? Because He had to qualify through obedience; Yeshua had to show himself worthy in all matters pertaining to righteousness, by obedience to the will of His Heavenly Father, even to the giving up of His life. And so He said, “I come to do Your will” (Hebrews 10:7), and "I lay down my life for the sheep" (John 10:15).

These are characteristics of those who have been called into the redemption process. We, who claim to be the "body of Messiah," through the indwelling of His Spirit, have received this very nature and therefore should be willing to lay down our lives so that others might have life. However, what does that "laying down of life" translate itself into, in our daily experience? We have to walk in the Spirit by putting away the works of the flesh, which are seen as the deadly fruit (see Galatians 5: 19-21) of the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

The "execution stake's" lesson ought to guide us, causing us to identify with Yeshua when He said: "Forgive them they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). Paul also says "that we are no longer to look at man after the flesh" (2 Corinthians 5: 16). This is not an easy transition, as sin is still working in us (ref. Romans 7:20), insisting that we identify ourselves with it so as to continue to be a vessel of its nature. At the same time, we really have no excuse for not gaining victory, as the power of another kingdom, which has come to destroy all the works of the devil, resides in us. The Spirit of the Redeemer reveals to us our death, when by faith we are identified to Yeshua's death, so that the life of Yeshua may manifest in our mortal bodies, thus bringing resurrection-eternal life to the rest of the family of Man. Daily we are challenged by the Word of Elohim to resist to the point of shedding blood (life is in the blood) in our striving against sin (ref. Hebrews 12:4), and to overcome by the blood (life) of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony, when we do not love our lives even to the point of death (ref. Revelation 12:11).

The messenger (the First and the Last, Who was dead, and is alive), reminds the congregation of Smyrna to be faithful even unto death, and that He will give to them the crown of life (ref. Revelation 2:8,10). Paul wept for those who did not press into death, in order to have the crown of life. He said of them that they were actually enemies of Messiah's stake. May we not be counted as the ones that he grieved over, but as those who join him in that pursuit of "life out of death". RIP

Ephraim

AN ADDED COVENANT

2011-02-11T13:47:00.004+02:00

Between the dispersion of Israel (in 722BC) and deportation of Judah (in 586BC), YHVH raised up the prophets Jeremiah and Ezekiel through whom He explained in full to both houses the reasons for their predicament (in spite of the fact that the northern kingdom had already been sacked by then). At the same time, these prophets also laid-out, and elaborated on, Israel's future restoration and redemption.

In speaking to the elders of Israel, now beyond the Great River, Ezekiel reminded them of their history of disobedience and rebellion, but also how their Elohim had responded to their insurrection each and every time. YHVH had "acted for [His] name's sake, that it should not be profaned in the sight of the nations among whom [Israel] lived, in whose sight [He] had made [Himself] known to [Israel]" (Ezekiel 20: 9). Before the Israelites came into the land of Canaan YHVH declared that He was not taking them there for their sake, nor because of their righteousness, but for His namesake, as they were a rebellious and stiff-necked people (ref. Deuteronomy 9: 5-7). However, He was still intending for them to be His witnesses to the nations, just as king David pointed out, that [YHVH] saved [us] for His name sake, so that His might and power would be known, along with His mercy and truth, for why should the nations say: "where is [Israel's] Elohim?" (ref. Psalms 106:8; 115:1).

Now, even though both houses of Israel were cast off, YHVH was continuing to watch over them, for He has not given up His covenants and promises to their ancestors. What's more, although His people had proven to be unable to uphold the Torah, YHVH obviously was not going to do away with His statutes, laws and ordinances, which govern His kingdom, His relationship with His people, nor their destiny. Because He was bound to His own nature and word, nothing was going to come in the way of His progressive plan, not even Israel's utterly fallen nature.

As we have seen all along, Israel was called and chosen as YHVH's firstborn nation, whose forefathers were of the firstborn linage (see chapter XI). They were His inheritance. YHVH even sealed His relationship with them with a very radical declaration: "Thus says YHVH, Who gives the sun for a light by day, the ordinances of the moon and the stars for a light by night, Who disturbs the sea, and its waves roar (YHVH of hosts is His name): ‘If those ordinances depart from before Me, says YHVH, then the seed of Israel shall also cease from being a nation before Me forever.’ Thus says YHVH: ‘If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done, says YHVH’" (Jeremiah 31: 35-37). But having said all this, YHVH had to embark on an undertaking that would transform the errant hearts which thus far have been in opposition to His plans and purposes.

Here is where a New Covenant comes into play. This covenant was not going to be like the one made in Sinai, which was contingent upon certain conditions and therefore dependent on Israel's ability to choose YHVH's righteousness, via a law written on tablets of stone. This new declared agreement was founded totally on YHVH's mercy and ability to remove the rebellious nature of sin from human hearts, and to grant forgiveness once and for all. The prophet Jeremiah records the terms of this new arrangement: "Behold, the days are coming, says YHVH, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah --"not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them, says YHVH. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says YHVH: I will put My Torah in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their Elohim, and they shall be My people…For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more" (Jeremiah 31:31-34). What a radical promise! Thus the Torah, its laws and statutes, will no longer present an insurmountable challenge. It is the Torah which is at the very heart of the new covenant, as the recipients' new hearts will be Torah-compatible by nature and disposition.

Yet, most amazingly this New Covenant declaration came at a time when Israel was already in exile and Judah was also facing deportation. The peculiar and deliberate timing of announcing this covenant attested to its veracity, and guaranteed that YHVH Himself would carry it out. He promised through Moses that He would raise-up another prophet like him (ref. Deuteronomy 18:15; 18). As we have seen, Moses was YHVH's servant-deliverer from the slavery in Egypt. But now He needed a deliverer, a savior, to bring them out of their slavery and bondage to sin, and to their naturally evil inclination. He needed to bring in a firstborn, a kinsman redeemer who would qualify for this office. This one would have to be both a prince and priest, after the order of Melchitzedec.
Ephraim

THE MERRY-GO-ROUND

2011-02-06T13:18:00.003+02:00

October 23, 2009

Around and around and around we go, where its stops no body knows...or do we? You may remember this little rhyme from your childhood. The reason that this came to my mind is because of living here, in Israel. No, I'm not referring to the peace process, although it too could fit the "bill".

What am I referring to? As we know, only Jews can legally come to Israel as new immigrants (immigration to Israel is called Aliya). Descendants of Jews (those whose mothers aren't Jewish, or those who have at least one Jewish grandparent) are also eligible, if they can prove it. In such cases, even though they will not be defined as "Jews", their right to immigrate will still be granted. However, all Jews or descendants of Jews must produce proof, by way of synagogue attendance documents, and/or Bar Mitzva, Jewish marriage or burial certificates, which are then subject to an Orthodox rabbi's approval and the relevant authorities in Israel. If your Jewish parents converted to Christianity, you are, as mentioned, still qualified to make Aliyah, though as a descendant of a Jew only. If you are a Jew who converted to Christianity, you could face a very serious problem in that the Aliya organizations would not only label you a non-Jew, but one who has chosen to forsake their "Jewishness" and is therefore a pariah to the Jewish People.

In Israel today many claim to know who is NOT a Jew, more so than who is a Jew, and thus the merry-go-round keeps turning. The Orthodox, along with the government, do not regard Messianic Jews as such. The Messianic Jews, for their part, say that the Jews, or Ephraimites who lost their identity, and who are claiming to have found it when they came to the Messiah of Israel, are not Jews. The Ephraimites, of course, do not view themselves as Jews, while many Jews believe that all Israelites, "lost" or found, still have to become Jews. Some Messianic Jews, who find their identity in Messiah, decry the Orthodox for not being "real" Jews, or the secular, as all of these do not follow the biblical Torah. Some Sephardic Jews believe that the Ashkenazi Jews originate from the ancient people called Khazars, and so are supposedly converts and not authentic Jews. And so it keeps going around… Now to make things even more interesting, some researchers are actually finding that the Afghani tribes, from which hails the Taliban, as well as many of the Palestinians could be descendants of Jews and of the lost tribes. Would you agree that there is a lot of confusion? Does YHVH have a solution for this mess?

Scripture says that "a house divided against itself cannot stand" (ref. Matt 12:25). Could this be another reason, why slowly but surely the nation of Israel may in a few short years become a Muslim country? Aside from the latter's incredible birth rate, there is one more factor on hand. In case you have not heard, the Hanif Religion of Abraham is embarking on an effort to unite Christianity, Judaism and Islam, under the one true god – "Allah", who "has no partners". Moses, Jesus, and Mohammed are the prophets of this religion with Mohammed being the last, although every generation has its messengers. I received an invitation to join them this past Sunday morning, probably as a result of sending (by mistake) last Friday's letter to someone in Jordan. If anyone is interested in the letter that was sent to me, I will forward it. It may be worth a read to see if this is the fishing net, that I pointed out in last Friday's letter, in reference to the first chapter of Habakkuk.

In writing to the Believers in Rome, the apostle Paul makes a statement that we too should take to heart: "I tell the truth in Messiah, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Messiah for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh, who are Israelites [not only the Jews], to whom pertain the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the Torah, the service of Elohim, and the promises; of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Messiah came, who is over all, the eternally blessed Elohim. Amen". (Romans 9: 1-5 emphases added).

How many of us carry this kind of burden for the children of Abraham "after the flesh, who are Israelites"? Paul then continues to define for us who he is actually talking about, please note that he uses "Israelites". "But it is not that the word of Elohim has taken no effect. For they are not all Israel who are of Israel, nor are they all children because they are the seed of Abraham; but, 'In Isaac your seed shall be called.' That is, those who are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of Elohim; but the children of the promise are counted as the seed" (Romans 9:6-8 emphasis added). Let me clarify, the children of Abraham after the flesh are not the children of Elohim. There is a difference between those born of the flesh, and those born after the Spirit. Then who are the children of Abraham after the flesh? They all are. However, the Word of Elohim has not failed, so Paul clarifies and differentiates between the flesh and the Spirit.

Who are the children of Promise? Paul explains his burden in a very clear cut statement: "For this is the word of promise: 'At this time I will come and Sarah shall have a son.' And not only this, but when Rebecca also had conceived by one man, even by our father Isaac (for the children not yet being born, nor having done any good or evil, that the purpose of Elohim according to election might stand, not of works but of Him who calls), it was said to her, 'the older shall serve the younger.' As it is written, 'Jacob I have loved, but Esau I have hated.'" (Romans 9:9-13).

YHVH calls His children after those who are born from the womb of Sarah, and then chooses or elects Jacob from the womb of Rebecca. Paul was willing to give up his life in Messiah for the sake of those who were already named, "the children of Elohim". Does that mean only the "Jews", or also the whole house of Israel which is identified as the progeny of Jacob, including the multitudes that are still in the nations, knowing or not knowing who they are…?

As mentioned in last week's letter, under the caption "Warning", we are in the days in which the Spirit is turning the hearts of the children of the promise to their forefathers. I pray that all of us will have the same burden that Paul had for his brethren. Remember, YHVH said that He would send a strong delusion. Did He have our day in mind? That delusion comes from the "good" of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. The unity of the three religions may sound like a good idea, for peace on earth good will towards men. But is it? Take a look at what is happening in Nigeria at the moment, to sight only one example. Will another nation fall into the hunters' net - the sword of Islam - or will they get caught in their "fishing net" and join that religion?

Ephraim

OPEN VISION

2011-02-06T12:39:00.005+02:00

October 16, 2009

An extraordinary experience that a friend of mine went through during Succot is the subject of this letter. Some of you might know or know of Hanoch Young. Hanoch is an orthodox Jew, with a Yah-given passion for this present move of the Spirit of restoring the "lost tribes of Israel" to their identity. Recently, shortly after making Aliya (immigration to Israel), Hanoch participated in a Succot tour of the Shomron (Samaria). If the experience that he had written about would have been relayed by someone from a different background, I may have brushed it off. But coming as it does, so uncharacteristically, from an orthodox Jew I do feel that it is credible and worthy of consideration.

Hanoch had this "experience" on Mt. Gerizim, about which he wrote: "Har Bracha, the Mountain of Blessing, [is] about 2,800 feet (850 meters) up, overlooking Shechem, [the place] where the blessings… of the Torah were heard..... I walked towards the edge of the mountain (not TOO Close), and stood there, praying for Ephraim, for what I thought was 30-45 seconds, or so......until my daughter Kyra came to gently inform me that I had been swaying back and forth with my arms wide, for over 10 minutes, and people were 'worried' about me! What I experienced, was the very first, and only, 'vision' I have had in my entire life. I had looked out from Har Bracha, and saw the empty hilltops and the Holy city of Shechem....but what I "saw" was a city of Ephramites and Jews...there were the distinctive red tiled roofs. I "saw" Ephramite housing, farms, industry and roads, connecting all of those areas. I saw the sides of the mountains, 'terraced' for farms, and I saw Ephramites bringing the Land back to HaShem......No, I didn't 'imagine' it in my minds, 'eye' - I actually SAW it, as bizarre as that sounds.....seeing cars move, hearing the sounds of construction, seeing school buildings.....I was beyond 'freaked out' and really didn't speak much for the rest of the afternoon, evening - I was so overwhelmed at what I had been privileged to glimpse - the future.....I CANNOT express the feelings of joy and elation I felt, although, I also can't express the 'heavy' and overwhelming feelings that it was ME, who had to somehow, someway help make this happen. Not in the long term, but NOW.......not that I was going to do it, but I had to someway 'get the ball rolling." (end of quote).

I spoke to Hanoch about the vision and he filled me in on a few more details. I could almost envision it myself. We have been in those areas many times, and the feeling that one gets there is of "something awesome in the making". Back in the early eighties, we used to drive into those areas and read Ezekiel 36 to the mountains, hills, ravines and valleys. I truly believe that we could be on the threshold of the fulfillment of those scriptures. But first YHVH must bring the beginning verses of that chapter (Ezekiel 36) to pass. That means that YHVH is going to have to deal with our brother Esau (Ezekiel 35) and friends (Psalm 83).

All this calls to mind words penned by the prophet Habakkuk: "For the vision is yet for the appointed time; It hastens toward the goal, and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay" (Habakkuk 2:3).
Ephraim

THE ELECTION OF RACE

2011-02-06T12:28:00.004+02:00

October 9, 2009

When a sudden revelation dawns on us, we are often inclined to view it as a "free burst" of the Spirit, having nothing to do with any prior influences. A small episode that occurred last Monday compelled me to reexamine that idea. When going through some old letters and papers that I had saved back in the seventies and early eighties, I came across a letter from a friend in which we were discussing a certain text from a daily reader called, "Daily Overcoming" by Ray Prinzing. The author may be termed an old-school Pentecostal holiness preacher, although I'm not sure if that is how he would have defined himself. Back in the beginning of my "walk", in 1973, his writings were a great encouragement to me, long before the days of understanding the two houses of Israel.

In order to find the above-mentioned text, I had to dig out an old worn out copy with half of its pages missing. But “alas”, the pages that I had made reference to, in that letter, were not in the book. I did, however, remember that at some point I had saved the loose leaves in a binder, and so I eventually found what I was looking for. Here is what I read from the March 2nd page, titled "Election of Race"…

"Walk before me, and be thou perfect. And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee exceedingly. And Abram fell on his face: and God talked with him, saying, as for me, behold, my covenant is with thee, and thou shalt be a father of many nations." (Genesis 17:1-4 KJV). This is solely done by God, He chose the man to become the father of a race – a race that He had purposed to use to bless all mankind. What a Testimony of this man who was so tested and tried, found worthy of his calling, to become the father of many nations, and through his seed all nations to be blessed. But as a nation, Israel was called while yet in the loins of Abraham, and not because of their own greatness, even as we read, "For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth. The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: But because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers…" (Deuteronomy 7:6-8). How sovereignly God chose this people to become His own elect [ref. 1Peter 2:9].

“Having been so chosen, bringing this people out of Egypt and into a land of promise, God worked many processes of testing proving what was in their heart, but as a nation Israel failed to fully qualify. They turned to serve other gods of the heathen about them. So He had to severely punish and discipline them, scattering them among all nations. "For, lo, I will command, and I will sift the house of Israel among all nations, like as corn is sifted in a sieve, yet shall not the least grain fall upon the earth" (Amos 9:9). But this is not the end, for God has fully used all the scattering, and has planned a time of gathering again, "what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?" (Romans 11:15). Even now at present time He is drawing to Himself out of natural Israel those who become His Spiritual first fruits." End of quote.

Quite often we remain oblivious when a seed of the Word is sown into our hearts, where it may lay dormant until the mist of the Spirit causes it to germinate. I know now that even in the Lutheran Sunday School class, at the age of 6, when I was taught the Torah stories of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, as well as about a young lad in a multi-colored coat, the impression that the Spirit made upon my soul at that tender age was already like the "deep calling to deep". May those scriptural seeds that have fallen into the ground of our hearts, and had begun to grow there, bear the fruit that Abba had intended for them. May we, like our father Abraham, be found faithful as we “daily overcome" in all our circumstances, giving glory to our heavenly Father through Messiah Yeshua.

Ephraim

YESHUA, MOSES AND ELIJAH

2011-02-06T12:23:00.003+02:00

October 1999

For me the call to repentance on Yom Teruah, and beyond, was accompanied by a strong reminder about one of Israel's most infamous kings, who was notorious for his sins and iniquitous practices, namely "Ahab". Generally, it is Ahab's wife Jezebel who gets most of the attention, but more than anything she was a help mate and a compatible reward to a rebellious Ahab. What's more, it must be remembered that she was a Sidonian, a daughter of an idol worshipping king who, in all likelihood, served also as a high priest of his idol (Baal). Here is the very unambiguous portrayal of Israel's ruling pair of the day.

"Now Ahab the son of Omri did evil in the sight of YHVH, more than all who were before him. And it came to pass, as though it had been a trivial thing for him to walk in the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, that he took as wife Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians; and he went and served Baal and worshiped him. Then he set up an altar for Baal in the temple of Baal, which he had built in Samaria. And Ahab made a wooden image. Ahab did more to provoke YHVH the Elohim of Israel to anger than all the kings of Israel who were before him"
(1 Kings 16:30-34).

It was in the day of this evil king, whose nation had also participated in the very same sins, that YHVH sent the prophet Elijah. It was while Israel was in bondage in idolatrous Egypt that Moses came on the scene. Yeshua, too, showed up during the height of Rome's decadence and evil practices of idolatry. Likewise, the contemporary conditions of the world, with its worship of humanism and the works of its hands, should give rise to the appearing, in some form, of an Elijah or a Moses in order to confront and deliver YHVH's people. Let me reiterate: Are we living in the times of the "two witnesses" (Moses and Elijah, see Revelation 11:3), and if they show up would we recognize them?

The Mount of Transfiguration scene could provide us with some clues as to what we are to look for. In this episode, Moses and Elijah are seen standing on each side of Yeshua while a voice speaks out of the cloud, declaring about Yeshua "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him" (Matthew 17:5). Why hear Yeshua, and not Moses and Elijah? Was YHVH pointing out that the words, as spoken by Moses and Elijah, were epitomized by "Yeshua the Word"? Was the Father implying that in the last days (the time of the “two witnesses”) Yeshua will be showing up again, only this time in a body of people that will represent Him as Moses the "Torah" and Elijah the "Prophets"? The religious leaders of Yeshua's day missed His first appearing, because they had it all figured out (or so they thought). How can we be sure that we are not missing his second appearing by misinterpreting or misunderstanding?

In Malachi chapter 4 we again see all three figures, this time as they appear at the end of the age. The reference to "the Sun of righteousness with healing in His wings", in verse 2, recalls the Transfiguration scene where Yeshua's face shone like the sun (ref Matthew 17: 2). In verse 4 Israel is exhorted to "remember the Torah of Moses and the statutes and ordnances…for all Israel" before Elijah shows up (verse 5), who "will restore the hearts of the fathers to the sons and the hearts of the sons to their fathers" (verse 6).

Before we are tempted, like Peter, to enshrine Moses in one succah and Elijah in another, let us ponder peacefully what this last Feast is really all about - not the "shadow" but the essence (ref. Colossians 2: 16-17). Yeshua, Moses, and Elijah could be standing in our very midst, through the Spirit of Holiness that is “tabernacling” in us, while we are sitting in our succah in a park somewhere or in our own backyard. Just something to think about.

Ephraim

THE WATCHMAN'S TERUAH

2011-02-02T13:59:00.002+02:00

Sept. 18, 2009

Our first stop in the United States this past summer was in Oregon, where we were invited to a conference called "Love for Israel", with the main theme being "The Watchman". As we were examining the scriptures to use for our breakout session, YHVH led us to Habakkuk 2:1-2: "I will stand on my watch and set myself on the rampart, and watch to see what He will say to [literally "in"] me, and what I will answer when I am reproved. Then YHVH answered me and said: 'Write the vision and make it plain on tablets that he who reads it may run".

The watchman comes up with this statement against the backdrop of Chapter One, where we find him observing what is taking place in his own backyard, with hostility, iniquity, wickedness, strife, contention, lawlessness, and perverted justice being commonplace (see vs 1-4). But instead of attending to his task, the bewildered watchman lodges his complaint before YHVH, who apparently is not being moved by this evil. However, YHVH is about to address His messenger's grievance, but will do so in an unexpected manner. Thus He proceeds to declare: "Look among the nations! Observe! Be astonished! Wonder! Because I am doing something in your days-- You would not believe if you were told" (1:5).

YHVH then goes on to describe in detail the astonishing phenomenon to which He had just alluded, that is, the "Chaldeans" whom He had been raising up. In today's geopolitical terms the land of the Chaldeans is the heartland of Islam. Here is how YHVH depicts this people group: "… fierce and impetuous people who march throughout the earth to seize dwelling places which are not theirs. They are dreaded and feared. Their justice and authority originate with themselves. All of them come for violence ("hamas"). They collect captives like sand. They mock at kings, and rulers are a laughing matter to them. They laugh at every fortress… (1:6-10). Responding to this prediction, the prophet/watchmen intones: "You, O YHVH, have appointed them to judge; and You, O Rock, have established them to correct…" (v. 12b). The watchman is now gaining understanding how the Judge of Israel will be dealing with His people who have strayed from His ways.

These "Chaldeans" are portrayed as hunters who are laying nets in order to capture their pray: "They take up all of them with a hook, they catch them in their net, and gather them in their dragnet. Therefore they rejoice and are glad. Therefore they sacrifice to their net, and burn incense to their dragnet…Will they therefore empty their net and continually slay nations without sparing?" (1:15-17 emphasis mine). The Hebrew word for "net" here is "cherem", being the very word that is used in Malachi 4:6: "And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children [Heb. – "sons"], and the hearts of the children [Heb. – "sons"] to their fathers, lest I come and strike the earth with a "cherem" [generally translated "curse"].

Interestingly, the watchman, as he is described in Chapter Two verses 1-2 is watching to hear what YHVH would speak ("into him", as mentioned above). How does one watch to hear? Obviously YHVH is putting his messenger through a season of training. To be well prepared for his task he needs to become one with the vision. In fact, he is also being reproved, so that he would become the very "proof" of this vision (similarly, "proof" is also embedded within the Hebrew noun used here for "reproof"). Therefore when time comes for passing on the message, there will be an impartation, or infusion, of the vision. The vision will be so clear, that there will be no guessing as to what is being seen and heard. What's more, in the injunction of making the message "plain on tablets" (2:2) is a hidden reference to the Torah, as if YHVH is responding to the prophet's earlier complaint, "the Torah is ignored" (1:4). "Making plain" is "ba'er", which is used only in Deuteronomy 1:5 and 27:8, in both cases in relationship to Moses expounding on the Torah. The verb b.e.r. shares its root with the noun "be'er", which is a "well". Thus, the elucidated words of the Torah are likened to deep and thirst-quenching water. Additionally, the watchman is told to inscribe these Torah-based words on "lu'chot", tablets, the very same word used for the tablets that Moses brought down from the Mountain, as well as for the "tablets of the heart" (ref. Is. 30:8; Jer.17:1). Could these references to Torah also have something to do with the above-mentioned Malachi 4:4, where YHVH charges His people to remember the Torah of Moses and its commands and warns of the consequences of turning away from them?

Once the watchman is fully prepared to pass on the vision, "the one who reads it may run" (2:2b) with a good cause, because he is to issue a warning to YHVH's people, to turn from their evil and wicked ways. Hence they are described as "… the proud one, his soul is not right within him…Furthermore, wine betrays the haughty man, so that he does not stay at home. He enlarges his appetite like Sheol, and he is like death, never satisfied. He also gathers to himself all nations and collects to himself all peoples. Will not all of these take up a taunt-song against him, even mockery and insinuations against him, and say, 'Woe to him who increases what is not his-- For how long-- and makes himself rich with loans?' Will not your creditors rise up suddenly, and those who collect from you awaken? Indeed, you will become plunder for them. Because you have looted many nations, all the remainder of the peoples will loot you-- Because of human bloodshed and violence done to the land, to the town and all its inhabitants. Woe to him who gets evil gain for his house to put his nest on high to be delivered from the hand of calamity! You have devised a shameful thing for your house by cutting off many peoples; so you are sinning against yourself" (Hab. 2:5-10). This text is quite descriptive of what have been standard practices within the Judeo-Christian nations. The prophet Jeremiah warns that YHVH will first send the fishers, and then the hunters (ref. Jeremiah 16:16), which is once again a reference to Islam, as both Ishmael and Esau were hunters.

Will Ephraim, who has been dubbed "a watchman with my Elohim, a prophet;" (Hosea 9:8), pick up the mantle and follow through? Or will he be "a snare of a fowler in all his ways, [with] hatred in the house of his Elohim" (cont. Hos. 8)? Will he be the watchman/guard on Mount Ephraim who calls out, "let us go to Zion to YHVH our Elohim" (Jer. 31:6)? Or will he be likened to the "blind watchmen" and the "dumb dogs" who are "greedy" and "not satisfied" (Is. 56:10,11), much like those who were described above in Habbakuk 2:6,8,9 and 10?

At the Portland conference Ezekiel 33:7 was used as a launching pad: "Son of man: I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore you shall hear a word from My mouth and warn them for Me". These words are couched in the following solemn context: "Son of man, speak to the children of your people, and say to them: 'When I bring the sword upon a land, and the people of the land take a man from their territory and make him their watchman, when he sees the sword coming upon the land, if he blows the trumpet [shofar] and warns the people, then whoever hears the sound of the trumpet [shofar] and does not take warning, if the sword comes and takes him away, his blood shall be on his own head. He heard the sound of the trumpet [shofar], but did not take warning; his blood shall be upon himself. But he who takes warning will save his life. But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet [shofar] , and the people are not warned, and the sword comes and takes any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood I will require at the watchman's hand" (Ezekiel 33:2-6).

On this Yom Teruah may the watchmen attend to their task and stand on the ramparts with the silver trumpets and shofars and blow a clear and distinct call to repentance (Daniel 9: 4-19; Nehemiah 1: 5-11; Nehemiah 9: 5-38)!

Ephraim

SIN OF JEROBOAM

2011-02-02T13:57:00.002+02:00

With the house of Jacob (Israel and Judah) now divided into two kingdoms, the word and will of the Elohim of Jacob will continue to guide their destiny in spite of their iniquities. As we follow their biblical history we must pay close attention to each of the prophets, as YHVH uses them to speak very specifically and explicitly to each house and sometimes to both at the same time.

The initial influence that Jeroboam, the first king, had over the northern kingdom is very significant, as he set the pattern of rebellion, idolatry, and adultery. Not only did he cause Israel to sin by setting up idols which he declared to be Israel's "gods", but he also broke off all relations with Judah, Jerusalem and the temple. Abolishing the Torah of Moses, he established his own priesthood along with feast days other than those decreed by YHVH (ref. 1 Kings 12: 25-33), thus "changing the times and seasons".

Jeroboam manifested the very heart of the people. Although his reign was only twenty-two years long, he left his legacy stamped in the very core of his kingdom. YHVH refers over and over to the "sin of Jeroboam" as the main reason for the judgments and curses that fell on the people and the land. The "sin of Jeroboam" can be summed up in one phrase - "replacement theology".

YHVH called upon the very aged and blind prophet Ahijah to bring a message of doom and gloom to the king and to the nation. It was this very prophet who earlier had symbolically handed Jeroboam the kingship over the ten tribes, by the gesture of tearing his garment into twelve pieces and giving him ten (ref 1 Kings 11:30). But now he delivered a very different prophecy:

"But you have done more evil than all who were before you, for you have gone and made for yourself other gods and molded images to provoke Me to anger, and have cast Me behind your back -- Therefore behold! I will bring disaster on the house of Jeroboam, and will cut off from Jeroboam every male in Israel, bond and free; I will take away the remnant of the house of Jeroboam, as one takes away refuse until it is all gone…For YHVH will strike Israel, as a reed is shaken in the water. He will uproot Israel from this good land which He gave to their fathers, and will scatter them beyond the River, because they have made their wooden images, provoking YHVH to anger. And He will give Israel up because of the sins of Jeroboam, who sinned and who made Israel sin" (1 Kings 14:9-10; 15-16).

This was not the first time that YHVH had instructed a prophet to say these words. Moses, before Israel had ever entered the land, foretold of these days and the reasons for what was to befall the house of Israel: "Because they have forsaken the covenant of YHVH the Elohim of their fathers, which he made with them when he brought them forth out of the land of Egypt: For they went and served other gods, and worshipped them, gods whom they knew not, and whom he had not given unto them: And the anger of YHVH was kindled against this land, to bring upon it all the curses that are written in this book: And YHVH rooted them out of their land in anger, and in wrath, and in great indignation, and cast them into another land, as it is this day" (Deuteronomy 29: 25-28).

One of the main characteristics of the two kingdoms' mutual relationship was their frequent conflicts. During the reign of Jeroboam, and beyond, the kingdom of Israel warred against the kingdom of Judah. Ephraim, who was bitterly jealous of Judah, was the latter's chief rival. Years later, Isaiah would prophesy that one of the signs of the end times restoration of the two houses would be that this jealousy would depart, and as a result the enemies of Judah would be cut off (ref. Isaiah 11: 13).

In spite of this horrible disposition toward lawlessness in the house of Israel/Ephraim, YHVH's intent was to fulfill the covenant promises of multiplicity that He had made with their forefathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. YHVH's word is attached to the life of the forefathers' seed/offspring, in spite of the fact that "although they knew Elohim, they [the offspring] did not glorify Him as Elohim… and their foolish hearts were darkened" (Romans 1:21). As we have already seen in some of the first chapters, YHVH hid his purposes in the realm of darkness until it was time to bring these purposes to the light. Paul refers to it as the "mystery of lawlessness" (ref. 2 Thessalonians 2:7). Likewise in this case; YHVH camouflaged His intentions for the house of Joseph under the covering of iniquity. He hid His people/treasure in the realm of spiritual darkness, that is the "power of sin", until He would remove it and bring His purposes into the light. "And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it" (John 1:5).

All the kings of the northern kingdom were evil and followed in the footsteps of Jeroboam. Perhaps the most famous was the team of Ahab and Jezebel and the latter's prophets of Baal. YHVH sent his two most renowned servants - Elijah and Elisha - to the northern kingdom of Israel. Interestingly, just before the coming of Yeshua He sent John the Immerser in the spirit of Elijah to the House of Judah to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children (ref Luke 1:17). However, prior to "the great and terrible day of YHVH" He will send this same Spiritual anointing of the prophet Elijah to turn the hearts of the children, of all Israel, to the fathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (ref. Malachi 4: 5-6) and to exhort them to "Remember the Torah of Moses My servant, even the statutes and ordinances which I commanded him in Horeb for all Israel" (Malachi 4: 4).
Ephraim

WILDERNESS JOURNEY

2011-02-02T13:52:00.003+02:00

Now, after having celebrated the Passover with our kinfolk (present and past), we find ourselves moving with them to the desert. Let us, therefore, take a look at what this portended for them, as well as for us.

After YHVH had moved by His mighty arm and brought His people out of Egypt, He immediately established kingdom rule over His nation. YHVH was going to be to them everything that they would need to make the journey. "I will be what I will be" said the blazing bush to Moses. Elohim then revealed Himself through the power of Moses' rod and the cloud by day and the fire by night, which would lead them through the entire journey. He was the wind that divided the Reed Sea and dried up the ground, He was the manna, the water from the rock as well as the rock, the fire on Mount Sinai, the voice that spoke like thunder, the finger that wrote the Ten Words on stone. He gave them a flawless judicial system that contained statutes, laws and ordinances for the community life of the nation, and for individual and family life. He also granted them their identity, along with their birthrights as a firstborn nation. But even more importantly, because of their propensity to iniquity as fallen Man, He became a tabernacle in which they could experience His love, mercy, compassion and power to forgive. The tabernacle was also an outward manifestation of a heavenly reality that YHVH would reveal in the future through His Son and our Messiah (see Hebrews chapter 9).

The apostle Paul makes reference to the importance of this period of Israelite history, as it is not only an example of spiritual realities, but it is also applicable to the restoration of the House of Judah and House of Joseph/Ephraim: "Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come" (1 Corinthians 10:11). By using the example of our forefathers, the apostle is showing us that our unity as a single nation is based on the statements: "For I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea; and all ate the same spiritual food; and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them; and the rock was the Anointed One" (1 Corinthians 10:1-4). There are many proto types and pre-figurations which are gleaned from the wilderness journey, but in order to remain a united entity, with YHVH ruling as king over them, the basic foundational lesson that this nation had to learn was to "listen, remember and act" - in one word "obedience" to YHVH's kingdom rule.

"All the commandments that I am commanding you today you shall be careful to do, that you may live and multiply, and go in and possess the land which YHVH swore to give to your forefathers. And you shall remember all the way which YHVH your Elohim has led you in the wilderness these forty years, that He might humble you, testing you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not. And He humbled you… that He might make you understand that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by everything that proceeds out of the mouth of YHVH… Thus you are to know in your heart that YHVH your Elohim was disciplining you just as a man disciplines his son" (Deuteronomy 8:1-3, 5).

The New Covenant writers did not depart from these statements, and reiterated to the redeemed remnant that YHVH required "obedience" to His Word. Stephen, one of the first martyrs of the faith, gave a complete run down of our forefathers' testimony and declared, "and our fathers were unwilling to be obedient to him [Moses], but repudiated him and in their hearts turned back to Egypt" (Acts 7:39). Paul too, writing to a community of believers who were tolerating immorality after being redeemed and brought out of that "cosmos" says: "For to this end also I wrote that I might put you to the test, whether you are obedient in all things" (2 Corinthians 2:9). Some of the "all things" are found in his letter to the believers in Colossia: "Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an feast day, or of the new moon, or of the Sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body of Messiah" (Colossians 2:16). Paul is telling the body of Messiah that they are to judge in these matters because the food restrictions, feast days, new moons and Sabbaths (not only the weekly ones) are prophetic of things yet to come, and therefore are to be kept according to the Word of Elohim.

The writer to the redeemed Hebrews, using an example of their forefathers in the wilderness says: "Do not harden your hearts as when they provoked Me, as in the day of trial in the wilderness" (Hebrews 3:8). This was a warning against "unbelief", which the apostle equates with disobedience that resulted in being prevented, by death in the wilderness, from entering YHVH's "rest" and inheritance.

Elohim's words, through Moses and the rest of the prophets, are still speaking to us today, and we would do well to pay close attention to them as there are consequences to disobedience: "As it is written in the Torah of Moses, all this calamity has come on us; yet we have not sought the favor of YHVH our Elohim by turning from our iniquity and giving attention to Your truth" (Daniel 9:13). "And so we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts" (2 Peter 1:19). "For this reason we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it" (Hebrews 2:1).

On a more positive note, YHVH declared through the prophet Isaiah the potential benefits "if only you had paid attention to My commandments! Then your well-being would have been like a river and your righteousness like the waves of the sea" (Isaiah 48:18). Regrettably, today many are falling into the same old behavior patterns that are described by Zechariah: "But they refused to heed, shrugged their shoulders, and stopped their ears so that they could not hear. Yes, they made their hearts like flint, refusing to hear the Torah and the words which YHVH of hosts had sent by His Spirit through the former prophets. Thus great wrath came from YHVH of hosts" (Zechariah 7:11-12).

YHVH exhorts us to learn from the wilderness journey of our forefathers, and while we are on our own voyage, "remember the Torah of Moses My servant, even the statutes and ordinances which I commanded him in Horeb for all Israel… lest I come and smite the land with a curse!" (Malachi 4: 4; 6b).

Ephraim

THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB

2011-02-02T13:45:00.003+02:00

I'm sure we are all familiar with Yeshua's birth in an animal stable most likely for sheep. Was this His Father's way of introducing the destiny of His only begotten Son? Later in life, when John the Baptist saw Him, cried out: "Behold, the Lamb of Elohim that takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29). In the earthly life of Yeshua this was the only time He was referred to as "the Lamb". However in the book of Revelation after He had ascended, into the heavens, it appears 26 times. The only two other instances are, one in the book of the Acts of the Apostles, when Philip over heard an Ethiopian eunuch, an emissary of the Queen of Ethiopia returning from worshipping in Jerusalem, reading Isaiah 53: 7-8. "He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth… He was taken from prison and from judgment, and who will declare His generation? For He was cut off from the land of the living..."
Philip then shares with him about Yeshua. The other text is from 1 Peter 1: 17-19 "conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; 18 knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, 19 but with the precious blood of Messiah, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot".

It seems that all the Apostles recognized that Yeshua's blood was acceptable to the Heavenly Father for the purpose of reconciling man back to Himself. In other words He redeemed man, atoned for his sin and forgave man permanently for his sins, through the death and shed blood of Yeshua.

How could this be when in the Psalms it says that no man can redeem man? "No man can by any means redeem his brother, or give to Elohim a ransom for him-- for the redemption of his soul is costly, and he should cease trying forever—" (Psalm 49: 7-8).

The Psalmist points out that the blemished life in the blood of Adam, and all those born after his likeness, could not be acceptable to YHVH Elohim for the purpose of redeeming another man. Therefore if Yeshua's blood had the life of "Adamic" man, no matter how good he was as a person, he could not have qualified nor fulfilled the required holiness or perfection (see 1 Corinthians 15: 42-43). Even the high priests had to sacrifice an unblemished lamb before going into the Holy of Holies.

YHVH when He instituted the Levitical system of sacrifice necessitated the blood of a male lamb or kid, without blemish or spot, for the atonement for sin. Although they did not, of course, remove sin permanently, the priest had to sacrifice year after year. It was a foreshadowing of that which was to come.

The only life that fulfills or satisfies YHVH's legal standards for the redemption of the life of Adam is His own. Thus He conceived His life in the womb of a virgin, who was betrothed to a son of David – Joseph. When Joseph was told by the angel to take Miriam and not put her away, it was evidence that he was not the father. So when he took Miriam to be his wife, what he did, in fact, was adopt the child.

The Torah principle of the life of the father being in his progeny (Abraham's seed), is well grounded in scripture. Thus we can understand that Yeshua's life was the same as His heavenly Father's - YHVH Elohim, although that does not make Yeshua the Father. However it does make them one. To biological sciences the life in the blood is still a mystery, they know that the mother contributes half of the DNA and the father the other half of the physical chemistry of the blood. But the scriptures points to another factor and that is "life", which is the spiritual component. We believe that this was breathed into Adam, and became mixed with the spirit realm of darkness when he disobeyed his creator and ate from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Thus Adam passed on this defiled life through Seth to all humanity and this is why flesh and blood can not inherit the Kingdom of Elohim nor can he redeem another man with his blood. It seems from scripture that this defiled life comes through the male and not the female, as Yeshua only had the "life" of His Heavenly Father.

If Yeshua's conception was not from YHVH Elohim, Miriam would have had to have a relationship with a man, while she was betrothed to another, she thus would be an adulteress and a harlot, and her son a bastard. Yeshua in no way then could have been that Lamb that would have been acceptable in the eyes of Elohim. When Yeshua told Miriam after His resurrection not to touch Him, it was because He had not been to His Father yet. Yeshua was that "first fruit" offering on the first day after the weekly Shabbat so that we might be accepted before the Father, fulfilling the Scripture in Leviticus 23: 10-14.

May we celebrate with the Lamb, the Passover on the 14th day of the first month (Leviticus 23: 5), just as Yeshua commanded His disciples to prepare the Passover meal (see Luke 22:7). Later the apostles followed this order as well (see 1 Corinthians 11:23).
Ephraim

CHOOSE THIS DAY

2011-02-02T13:41:00.002+02:00

When Nimrod built Babylon he gathered and united the people together for the purpose of making a name for themselves (see Genesis 11:4). They were convinced that they had the power to control their own destiny. As I was listening to the victory speech of the President elect of the United States, I was amazed how he waxed eloquent in his attempt to bring hope to the nation. At the same time he noticeably stayed away from any mention of God, except when he ended with a "God bless you" and "God bless America". The rest of his speech was based on pure humanism. The prophet Isaiah warned Israel regarding this very thing, saying: "Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" (Isaiah 5:20).

The philosophy of humanism is actually nothing less than a form of idolatry. In fact it is the worse kind of adulation, for when humanity worships itself it sends the whole creation into "gross, thick and black darkness". How so? Because unredeemed man is still a slave to the nature and power of Sin and certainly should not be the object of worship. In the beginning Man/Adam was given dominion over all living things that were created in the fifth and sixth days. However, he was not to rule over himself; that was the Creator's prerogative and position. Man was to be YHVH's servant, to bring His Life and Light to all living things. The glory that Adam manifested while walking with and worshipping his Elohim emanated the glory of the Creator, and was even transmitted to the creation. When Man fell out of relationship with his Master/Elohim, through disobedience, the whole of Man's cosmos fell along with it into a state of spiritual darkness. Man began to worship and to serve the creation rather than the Creator. "Professing to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible Elohim for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures" (Romans 1:23).

In Psalm 106:20 it says that "they changed their glory into the image of an ox that eats grass". If man worships or serves an ox, he will receive the glory of the ox, thus keeping the creation at a very low level of life. However, in the last days, before the Light dawns, the Word tells us that gross darkness will be on the earth (ref. Isaiah 60:2). The reason for this deep darkness (as Paul explains in 1st Corinthians 15: 40-52), is that every thing that YHVH created has a glory, except for one - "natural Man". The latter receives his glory from that which he worships, as we noted in the above Psalm. Thus the reason for the gross darkness is that man is worshiping and serving himself, the creature, rather than the Creator.

We, who have been taken out of the kingdom of darkness and have been transferred to the kingdom of YHVH's dear Son Yeshua (ref. Colossians 1:13), are in a position to worship in Spirit and in Truth. Having been redeemed and placed in the Messiah in heavenly places, we are given the opportunity to again bring the true Light into this cosmos. The condition that our Master of Light places upon us is the same one that He had placed in the beginning - obedience to serve and walk with the Creator. If we give ourselves as a living sacrifice (ref. Romans 12: 1), through the obedience of faith, believing what is true about our death, burial and resurrected life in the Spirit of Holiness, we will again be the conduit of spiritual Light and Life to the creation. The creation is still groaning in travail waiting for the revealing of the sons of Elohim (ref. Romans 8:19). Who are they? "For as many as are led by the Spirit of Elohim, these are sons of Elohim" (Romans 8:14).

These sons are to walk in paths of righteousness, a righteousness that is not their own, anything else would constitute the sin of self-righteousness. They are to serve YHVH's righteousness. The Apostle explains this position of sonship in Romans 6: 16: "Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as bond servants for obedience, you are servants of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness?"

Yeshua reminds us that one cannot serve two masters: "No servant can serve two masters. He will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve Elohim and mammon" (Luke 16:13). When we apply this principle to Sin, we have to ask ourselves: is Yeshua indeed LORD/Master over us, or is it Satan? Paul is making it very clear; if we continue to serve Sin than our master is not Yeshua. Yeshua Himself illustrated this point by using the example of those who were doing mighty works in His name but yet were not known or acknowledged by Him, for their hearts were not in right relationship to Him (ref. Mathew 7: 21-23).

We are invited to be obedient servants to His righteousness. How is this righteousness defined? The answer is the "fruit of the Spirit" which is: "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control" (Galatians 5: 22-23). If, for example, we serve impatience, which is an embodiment of an unloving nature that kills relationships, who is ruling in that instance? Right then it is certainly not Yeshua. We are to serve the Spirit of Holiness/Righteousness at all times, and do so voluntarily as He will not drag us along and force us into that position. It is up to us to be His obedient bond-servants: "For it is Elohim who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of Elohim in the face of Yeshua the Messiah. We have this treasure in earthen vessels that the excellence of the power may be of Elohim and not of us" (2 Corinthians 4:6-7).

Ephraim

DAY OF YHVH'S WARNING

2011-02-02T12:44:00.005+02:00

June 20, 2008

Toward the end of this Shabbat's Parashat Sh'lach Lecha ("Send for Yourself") we read the following: "Now while the children of Israel were in the wilderness, they found a man gathering sticks on the Sabbath day. And those who found him gathering sticks brought him to Moses and Aaron, and to all the congregation. They put him under guard, because it had not been explained what should be done to him. Then YHVH said to Moses, "The man must surely be put to death; All the congregation shall stone him with stones outside the camp." So, as YHVH commanded Moses and all the congregation brought him outside the camp and stoned him with stones, and he died" (Num. 16:32-36). This man was said to be "gathering sticks"; He was "me'ko'shesh", of the root kash, which is "stubble" or "straw". Thus anyone picking up stubble, straw or sticks is of necessity having to stoop low.

Another instance of stooping to the ground and picking up "two sticks" is found in the story of Elijah and the widow woman of Zarephath, who in her desperation "gathered" ("mekosheshet" of the same above mentioned root) sticks upon which she was about to cook the last meal for herself and her son. But because of her faith and obedience to the word of Elohim that came to her via the prophet, "the bin of flour was not used up, nor did the jar of oil run dry, according to the word of YHVH which He spoke by Elijah" (1 Kings 17:16).

Like the widow woman of Zarephath, we too, with the rest of the inhabitants of this planet, could be coming to a time of dire need. In fact in Zephaniah chapter 1 there is a sobering description of what is called there "the Day of YHVH": "The great day of YHVH is near; It is near and hastens quickly. The noise of the day of YHVH is bitter; there the mighty men shall cry out. That day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of devastation and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness, a day of trumpet and alarm against the fortified cities and against the high towers. I will bring distress upon men, and they shall walk like blind men, because they have sinned against YHVH; Their blood shall be poured out like dust, and their flesh like refuse. Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them in the day of YHVH's wrath; But the whole land shall be devoured by the fire of His jealousy, for He will make speedy riddance of all those who dwell in the land" (Zeph. 1:14-18).

Immediately following this somber prediction, a call is issued out: "Gather yourselves together, yes, gather together, O undesirable nation" (2:1). The address to the "undesirable nation" should immediately alert us as to who is being referred to here, as the whole House of Israel has been issued a bill of divorce by the Almighty (ref. Is. 50:1, Jer. 3:8). But isn't He also telling us here to "gather and be gathered" (literal Hebrew translation)? And doesn't it mean that He has forgotten all the treacheries of His People? Well, the gathering according to this passage, in the context of the Day of YHVH must take place in the same lowliness and humility that it took the widow woman, or even the defiler of the Shabbat, to pick up those sticks and branches. It is also the same lowliness with which our ancestors gathered the straw in Egypt while they were in slavery (ref. Ex. 5:12). What's more the "koshu ve'hit'ko'shashu" ("gather and be gathered") that we encounter here, is in a form that is somewhat different from what one would expect, which would be "koshe'shu" (as is found in all the other instances sited).

Why "koshu" and not "koshe'shu"? For non-Hebrew speakers this might sound like a triviality, but those who know the language can immediately pick the similarity between "koshu" and "kasheh", meaning "hard" or "stiff", which takes us to "k'sheh oref", that is "stiff necked"; a title that has been accorded us time and again by our King (e.g. Ex. 32:9; 33:3,5; 34:9). It is therefore no wonder that the Zephaniah text goes on to warn us:

"Before the decree is issued, [before] the day passes like chaff, before YHVH's fierce anger comes upon you, before the day of YHVH's anger comes upon you! Seek YHVH, all you meek of the earth who have upheld His justice. Seek righteousness, seek humility. It may be that you will be hidden in the day of YHVH's anger" (2:2,3 emphasis added). The message resounds loudly and clearly. And while the decree is about to happen fast, and (His enablement of) humility and righteousness are unquestioned requirements, He still says that "it may be that you will be hidden". Thus, we cannot take for granted being "hidden" in the day of trouble, and neither can we "be settled in [our] complacency", because He warns us that He will punish those who do so (Zeph.1:12). Finally, verse 4 of Zephaniah 2 may alert us as to the timeframe of all of this: "For Gaza shall be forsaken, and Ashkelon desolate; they shall drive out Ashdod at noonday…" If you live in Israel you hear those names daily on the "not so good" News!

Before the great and mighty trees of Judah and Ephraim come together (ref. Ez. 37:15ff), it will be the lowly gathering of sticks and twigs that will take place under the terms prescribed by YHVH only. We may be like the widow woman, humbly obedient and acting in faith, or, YHVH forbid, we can decide to do our own gathering in a way and at a time which YHVH has not designated and cast our lot with the individual described above in Numbers 15:32-36.

Rimona

RECONCILIATION THROUGH YESHUA

2009-10-28T14:12:00.008+02:00

June 6, 2008

YHVH's love has been poured out to redeem Ephraim and to give to him a whole new nature through the New Covenant. This nature reflects the very character (fruit of the Spirit) of Elohim through Yeshua His Son.

"I will heal their apostasy, I will love them freely, for My anger has turned away from them. I will be like the dew to Israel; He will blossom like the lily, and he will take root like the cedars of Lebanon. His shoots will sprout, and his beauty will be like the olive tree" (Hos.14: 1-6). What a beautiful promise for these lost Israelites. YHVH has not forgotten them, but through the redemption and reconciliation in the New Covenant, YHVH has restored their identity and their rightful place in His kingdom. However, there are qualifying points that the apostles make mention of. "For do you not know that the unrighteous shall not inherit the Kingdom of Elohim" (Corinthians 6:9)?

Because Ephraim is declared YHVH's firstborn and thus belongs to Him for His kingdom purposes (fixed order of government) YHVH was bound by His own righteousness, to do something about Israel's apostasy. In Psalm 49 verses 7-8 it says that "No man can by any means redeem his brother, Or give to Elohim a ransom for him-- 8 For the redemption of his soul is costly, and he should cease trying forever".

Why is it that man cannot redeem his brother? As seen in the examples of the temple sacrifices YHVH requires blood to atone for sin and to redeem that which belongs to Him. Man's blood has been tainted with the nature of sin, and thus does not qualify. However, YHVH must have a blood sacrifice that would meet His criteria. YHVH gives us a hint back in Genesis 3:15 as to how He was going to accomplish this. It was to be through the "seed of a woman" (ref Gen 3:15). Since the only righteousness that actually qualifies is His own, YHVH would have to father a Son. This Son would then have His Father's life coursing through His blood. The soul of this Son would have to exist in absolute obedience to the will of His Heavenly Father, in order to be the perfect "lamb" for the offering. YHVH's Spirit nature was in the blood of His Son, thus YHVH Elohim Himself was enacting redeemption, doing it through His Son. This Son was Yeshua the Messiah.

In case you are wondering why I am stating what may appear to you all too obvious, let me say the following: Today the enemies of the gospel, through the spirits of doubt and unbelief, are working overtime to make Yeshua out to be a mere human being, born of the Adamic life, and anointed to be a great teacher of Torah, or a type of messiah. We know from the books of the gospels that Yeshua was born out of wedlock and that is why Joseph wanted to put him and his mother away. This in itself would make Yeshua out to be a "mamzer" (illegitimate child; bastard) and a sinner par excellence. Thus He would be disqualified from being the channel of the Father's redemptive work. For such a person was not even allowed into the assembly of Israel. "No one of illegitimate birth shall enter the assembly of YHVH; none of his descendants, even to the tenth generation, shall enter the assembly of YHVH" (Deut 23:2). But because Yeshua's blood had the life of His Heavenly Father, YHVH Elohim could not deny Himself and reject His Son's atoning sacrifice for the sin of the world. This clarifies Paul's words when he says, "Elohim was in Messiah reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation" (2 Cor. 5:19). And since we too have received the life that was in Yeshua, through the indwelling Spirit of Holiness, we agree with John when he writes: "Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father; he who acknowledges the Son has the Father also" (1 John 2:23).

We must guard and watch out for any spirit of doubt and unbelief as to Yeshua's conception by the Spirit of YHVH in the womb of a virgin daughter of Zion.
Ephraim

FIRST FRUIT - NEW CREATION

2008-06-13T16:14:00.004+03:00

As the nation of Judah/Israel celebrates Shavuot this week, among the many important topics that are pertinent to the Feast there are a few which I would like correlate to us, who have received the "first fruit of the new creation" through our Messiah, who is our First Fruit.

When the disciples were with Yeshua on the Mount of Olives, ten days before Shavuot, they asked Him when He was going to restore the Kingdom to Israel. In response He told them to wait in Jerusalem until they would receive power, through the Spirit of Holiness, and become His witnesses of this restoration (ref Acts 1:8). When Shavuot arrived they did receive that which was promised; the Spirit of Holiness came upon them as a mighty rushing wind. But what does the receiving of the Spirit have to do with the Kingdom and this "First Fruit" Feast?

In Romans 14:1 Paul weaves all three into one statement: "the Kingdom of Elohim is righteousness, peace and joy [the fruit] in the Spirit of Holiness" (emphases added). In addition, he elaborates on the fruit of the Spirit in his letter to the Galatians: "The Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control" (Gal 5:22-23). In 2nd Corinthians Paul connects this first fruit concept to the new creation: "Therefore if any man is in the Spirit of Messiah, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come" (5:17 emphasis added).

When the disciples received the power that Yeshua had promised them, they received the fruit/nature of the New Creation. Peter declares: "His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust" (2 Peter 1: 3-4 emphases added). Once again in 2nd Corinthians, we read: "For Elohim, who said, 'Light shall shine out of darkness,' [the same "let there be light", pronounced on the first day of creation] is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of Elohim in the face of Messiah [the living Torah]. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels that the surpassing greatness of the power may be of Elohim and not from ourselves" (4: 6-7).

If we have received the Spirit of Holiness, we have also received in our hearts this "First Fruit" of righteousness, which is the Fruit of the Spirit and is the Life, Light, and the nature of He who is the "first fruit/first born" Messiah Yeshua. In reference to the fruit and to the firstborn Paul writes: "[You are] being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are in Messiah Yeshua, to the glory and praise of Elohim" (Phil. 1:11), through Him who is "the image of the invisible Elohim, the firstborn over all creation" (Col 1:15). "For in Messiah Yeshua neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new [firstborn/first fruit] creation" (Gal. 6:15). "Therefore if any man is in Messiah, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come" (2 Cor 5:17).

When Yeshua died, we died too (ref. 2 Cor 5: 14), and thus it is no longer we who live but Messiah Yeshua, who is our life, lives in us (ref. Col 3:4; Gal. 2:19). Therefore those who believe this gospel have also been raised to newness of life, and are given opportunities every day to experience "the dying of Yeshua so that the life and nature of Yeshua may be made manifest in and through our mortal bodies" (2 Cor 4: 10).

Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, says that YHVH's feasts are a shadow of things yet to come (ref Col 2:17). Thus, if the First Fruit of the divine nature is in our hearts, and issues forth from us, we are actually living in the "light of Shavuot" and no longer in the "shadow" of the Feast (ref. Col 2:17). We trust that through faith in our Heavenly Father's provision, in His Son, we who have received the power of the Spirit of Holiness can now "walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, and [thus] have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Yeshua His Son cleanses us from all sin" (1John 1: 7).

When the seven weeks of the Omer counting were completed, the Torah of Elohim descended via the Spirit of Holiness penetrating the heart of Messiah's talmidim (disciples), embedding itself within them and empowering them to become the First Fruit of a New Creation Order, fulfilling the Feast of Shavuot. Now to us it is given to expand and extend the Kingdom of Elohim by embracing the three-tier truth and power of this Feast which signifies First Fruit, giving of the living Torah, and the Restoration of the Kingdom to all Israel.

Ephraim

ANOTHER KINGDOM

2008-06-13T16:08:00.005+03:00

Like Noah, Shem's sons were born in the image and likeness of Adam and were of the same nature. Shem, being the older and the firstborn, had the rights to inherit the patriarchal position of his father. He was the servant prince who would act as a redeemer if other members of the family were to lose their property, inheritance, or in the event of not having posterity. About Shem it says that he "was the father of all the children of Eber" (Genesis 10:21). Thus we see that at times "fatherhood" has a far wider scope than strict biological parenting. Because of the principles of redemption, Biblical fatherhood involves definite legislated parameters and ramifications, which will become evident later on.

In the third generation of Noah's family we encounter a deviation from the firstborn redeemer order. The instigator of this subversion was Ham’s firstborn grandson (from his firstborn, Cush) - a man by the name of Nimrod .

Nimrod’s name means “we will rebel”, or “let us rebel”. Whom or what was he rebelling against? Scripture tells us that Nimrod was "a mighty hunter". This means that he was very adept at leading, planning, organizing and carrying out a hunt. He is depicted as someone who had all the natural components that made it possible for him to rebel against YHVH’s Kingdom Order. And this is exactly what took place. “The beginning of his [Nimrod's] kingdom was Babel, and Erech, and Accad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar” (Genesis 10:10). And furthermore, of his subjects it is written: "And they said, 'Come, let us build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top is in the heavens; let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be scattered abroad over the face of the whole earth'" (Genesis 11:4). Here we see the inception of another kingdom, a kingdom which had its roots in the first city (other than the one built by Cain) - Babel, in the Land of Shinar.

What was the reason for gathering the people together and building a city with a high tower? What motivated Nimrod to establish another kingdom, and what caused the people with him to try to "make a name for themselves"? Nimrod no doubt was prompted by the firstborn jealousy over the patriarchal rule of his uncle and cousin, Shem and Eber. He was not interested in humbly serving YHVH. The nature of another spiritual entity found a new firstborn (Cain-type) to prey upon. Satan knows that man is YHVH’s channel for the manifestation of His nature and Kingdom here on planet earth. By the same token, Satan can also make use of humans for his kingdom purposes. So just like Cain, Nimrod and his cohorts reintroduced and expressed the nature of the kingdom of “knowledge of good and evil" through the “lust of the eyes” (tower), “lust of the flesh" (a city) and the "pride of life" (making a name for themselves) (ref. 1 John 2:16).

Building something bigger, higher and stronger was to confirm, justify and express the existence of this other kingdom. The name of the city was Babel, meaning "confusion" or "mixing". YHVH’s word to the Noahic family was “to be fruitful multiply and fill the earth” (Genesis 9:1). Nimrod did the very opposite. Rather than filling the earth, as commanded, he gathered the people to himself.

Like YHVH's Kingdom, Nimrod’s kingdom was also governed by a kingly-priestly order. However, these offices did not exist for the purpose of facilitating service to YHVH and to Mankind; rather, they were hierarchical political and religious positions turned-institutes, which paid tribute to Man instead of the Creator. YHVH had not given Man authority to rule over his kind, only to serve one another. Nimrod's offices of king and priest, on the other hand, were designed to exalt the names of those who bore the titles that were attached to their respective positions.

This rebellion, however, was not allowed to continue. YHVH judged that kingdom by confusing the language, so that the objectives could not be accomplished, as seen in Genesis 11:9: “Therefore its name is called Babel, because there YHVH confused the language… and from there YHVH scattered them abroad over the face of all the earth.” Thus YHVH had his way and the rebels were scattered. Nevertheless, it was from this rebellion that the various nations/goyim, patterned after Nimrod’s kingdom, emerged, together with their governments and religious expressions. But through the His firstborn, YHVH's Kingdom Order was still intact.

The following are the generations of YHVH’s firstborn:
Adam, Seth, Enosh, Kenan, Mahalalel, Jared, Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech, Noah, Shem, Arpachshad, Shelah, Eber, Peleg, Reu, Serug, Nahor, Terah, Abram, Isaac, Jacob, Judah and Joseph/Ephraim, all in all twenty four elders, or patriarchal firstborn, who ruled before YHVH changed the individual ruling firstborn to a firstborn nation. These twenty four are most likely those who according to Revelation 4;4, were seen sitting around the throne. Please note that none of the those elders qualified to take the scroll that was to the right of the Creator, and redeem that which belonged to Him (ref. Revelation 5:3-4). Psalm 49:7-8 declares that “None can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to Elohim a ransom for him: For the redemption of their soul is precious, and one should cease trying for ever.”

It was during the days of Peleg that YHVH Elohim judged Babel, scattering the peoples and dividing the earth (ref. Genesis 10:25). In so acting, YHVH was preparing for His far reaching plan. "Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations. Ask your father, and he will show you; your elders, and they will tell you: When the Most High divided their inheritance to the nations, when He separated the sons of Adam, He set the boundaries of the peoples according to the number of the children of Israel. For YHVH's portion is His people; Jacob is the place of His inheritance" (Deuteronomy 32:7-9 emphases added).
As mentioned above, YHVH judged Nimrod’s kingdom and cities during the days of Peleg (who lived only one generation after Eber - Nimrod's cousin and contemporary), dividing them according to the number of the tribes of Israel who at that point had not even come into existence. This is a clear statement that Israel was to be solely YHVH's possession, and would become the governing head over the rest of the nations. Israel's role was to serve Mankind and be their brothers' keepers. What was so unique about Israel's twelve tribes that would qualify them to become this special and peculiar people? Would not history prove their conduct to be no different than the rest of the nations? To answer these questions we must turn to the twelfth chapter of Genesis, which describes a very crucial development in YHVH’s plan in establishing His Kingdom, rule and authority upon earth. It begins with the word of YHVH to a man called Abram.

EPHRAIM'S APOSTASY AND REPENTANCE

2008-05-23T17:45:00.005+03:00

May 23, 2008

Last week's letter was concluded with an excerpt from 1 Corinthians 15:55; "O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?" Paul quoted these words from Hosea 13:14. In its original context this text forms part of an address to Ephraim. Earlier on in the same chapter YHVH declares: "He [Ephraim] exalted himself in Israel, but through Baal [pride] he did wrong and died. And now they sin more and more, and make for themselves molten images, idols skillfully made from their silver, all of them the work of craftsmen. They say of them, 'Let the men who sacrifice kiss the calves!'… "Their heart became proud; therefore, they forgot Me" (Hosea 13:1-2, 6). The sin of pride and self idolatry (as expressed in the worship of Baal) has indeed brought death upon Ephraim. Thus YHVH told them in no uncertain terms that He would tear their evil heart out of their chest (ref v.8). Ephraim's fondness of and propensity for sin caused YHVH to also decree that He would be like a lion, a bear, a leopard and a wild beast to them (ref Hosea 13:7-8).

In the book of Daniel mention was made of the same four beasts, which symbolized four major world empires that were destined to shape world history (Dan. 7:4-7). Thus Israel, being at the very center of YHVH's machinations, fell into the hands of those whom He had selected as His instruments. YHVH rejected and cast these sons away to the lion (Assyria/Babylon). Later Israel encountered the bear (Medeo-Persian empire), and then received his new identity from the leopard (Greek). Finally he was dispersed into all nations, devoured, as it were, by the wild beast of the Roman and Holy Roman empires. Yet while in this condition YHVH multiplied him exceedingly, and he became, as prophesied, "the fullness of the gentiles/nations". Was this actually the end of the identifiable Ephraim/Israel? Not according to YHVH's words of promise… However, for restoration the Almighty placed conditions upon His firstborn son: "Return, O Israel, to YHVH your Elohim, for you have stumbled because of your iniquity. Take words with you and return to YHVH. Say to Him, 'take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously, that we may present the fruit of our lips. Assyria will not save us, we will not ride on horses; nor will we say again, 'our god,' to the work of our hands; for in Thee the orphan finds mercy'" (Hos 14: 1-2). And again, in Jeremiah, it is recorded that when Ephraim, under the chastisement of his Elohim, cries out in repentance YHVH hears and response: "I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself: 'You have chastised me, and I was chastised, like an untrained bull; restore me, and I will return, for You are YHVH my Elohim. Surely, after my turning, I repented; and after I was instructed, I struck myself on the thigh; I was ashamed, yes, even humiliated, because I bore the reproach of my youth.' "Is Ephraim My dear son? Is he a pleasant child? For though I spoke against him, I earnestly remember him still; therefore My heart yearns for him; I will surely have mercy on him, says YHVH" (Jeremiah 31:18-20). Thus, because of His great love YHVH enacts a "New Covenant" with the Houses of Israel and Judah.

Within the past decade or so, YHVH has been restoring Israel the orphan to his true identity. With this turn about of destiny comes, of course, the responsibility to repent, that is to go full force into a process of "smiting the thigh" and to atone for many flagrant iniquities and atrocities preformed against Elohim by our forefathers, as well as by our own doing when we were walking in darkness and ignorance. But is Ephraim fulfilling what has been foretold? Is he truly "smiting his thigh in repentance for the sin of his youth"? Or are pride and self-righteousness of youth, which constitute Baal worship, still active? Are B'ney Ephraim still worshipping the works of their hands (that is, their achievements)? And even now, is not Ephraim's blessed return to Torah marred quite often by strife, jealousy, envy, competitiveness and contention as to who has the "right" interpretation of YHVH's Word?

Our indebtedness and deep gratitude to Abba for the richness of Torah treasures that He has bestowed upon this restoration movement, should cause us all to handle them with an attitude of "kodesh" (holiness), great care, and respect. Thus, in our pursuit of Torah knowledge and the restoration of the Hebraic mindset, which is the mind of Messiah, we cannot run the race in a Greco-Roman fashion or style. Let us take our leave of the gymnasiums, arenas and hippodromes for a secure dwelling place under the vines and fig tress of the true Torah, brought about through the blood of the New Covenant.

YHVH seals off the book of Hosea with the following: "O Ephraim, what more have I to do with idols? It is I who answer and look after you. I am like a luxuriant cypress; from Me comes your fruit. Whoever is wise, let him understand these things; whoever is discerning, let him know them. For the ways of YHVH are right, and the righteous will walk in them, but transgressors will stumble in them" (Hos 14: 8-9 emphases added).

Ephraim

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE?

2008-05-23T16:51:00.003+03:00

May 16, 2008

What do you believe?

"For Elohim so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). This verse is probably the most quoted scripture in the entire Christian world. But it is also the least understood. Most seem to believe that if they confess Yeshua as Lord, when they die they will go to heaven and at some point in time will be resurrect from the grave. While it is true that this hope is buried in the context of the verse, its content is also relevant to the restoration of YHVH's Kingdom in the present life of the Believer.

Let us take a look at a paraphrased version of John 3:16: Elohim the Creator loved this present world/cosmos (His fixed order of government) so much that He was willing to sacrifice His only begotten Son in order that Man could be redeemed and restored to his rightful place in His present Kingdom order.

In the beginning Elohim entrusted Adam/Man (male and female) with dominion-rule over all of the living things (ref. Gen 1:26), which He had created. Before partaking of the "Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil" Man was united with His Creator in a state of divine/everlasting life. At that time Man was only God-conscious; life and light were flowing through him to the creation. Adam's spiritual nature was the same as YHVH's, as he/they lived under His dominion and expressed His peace, joy and righteousness. Thusly the Kingdom of Elohim was being manifested on earth as it was in heaven: "For the kingdom of Elohim is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit" (Rom 14:17).

After Adam and Eve opened themselves up, by being disobedient, to another kingdom that was present in the Garden, they began to give expression to its nature. The ruling authority - Lucifer - seduced Eve and through her deceived Adam. They believed the lie that they could become like Elohim, if they were to digest into their being the spiritual fruit (nature) of the forbidden tree. After doing so, the Spirit of Elohim departed their "heart" and they became conscious of their outer being (nakedness - that is "self consciousness"). Their soul now started feeding from the spirit realm of darkness, and thus their expression was conveying the nature of "good and evil" and bearing its fruit.

In the Torah and through the New Covenant writings we continue to see YHVH uncovering the nature of this counterfeit kingdom. It is very important that we, as the redeemed remnant of Israel, understand the nature of this poisonous fruit. YHVH placed a curse over this tree, and hence anyone who eats of it will be subjected to YHVH's judgments (see Deut 28). Ignorance does not save us from the consequences of participating with its nature, which is "the power of Sin". More over, YHVH has sent His only begotten Son to destroy this kingdom and its works (ref 1 John 3:8). Through the blood of the New Covenant, working through faith (that is, believing what is true about what the Father accomplished through His Son in His death, burial and resurrection), we participate in YHVH's victory over the nature of Sin and Death and partake of the restoration of His Kingdom-nature in our hearts.

"Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil" (Hebrews 2:14). "And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance" (Hebrews 9:15).

The means by which the Almighty accomplished this victory over the other kingdom and reconciled us to Himself was through the death of His Son. How the curse of death and the power of death could actually bring us into eternal life, is hard to comprehend as it is a mystery. But unless a seed falls to the ground and dies it remains alone, yet when it dies it comes forth in newness of life (see John 12: 24). Death is no longer to be looked upon as an enemy, but as a blessing, for in Yeshua's death the Father saw to it that all would die: "For the love of Messiah compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; and He died for all" (2 Cor. 5: 14-15) "… Do you not know that as many of us as were immersed into Messiah Yeshua [through faith] were identified to His death? Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, and that we should no longer be slaves of sin, for he who has died has been freed from sin. Because we have been united together in the likeness of His death, death no longer has dominion over us. Thus when Yeshua died He died to sin, so also reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to Elohim in Messiah Yeshua our Master. Death no longer has dominion over Him. For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives in Elohim" (Rom. 6: 3-10). "I have been crucified with Messiah and it is no longer I who live, but Messiah lives in me" (Gal. 2:20). "For you have died and your life is hidden with Messiah in Elohim. When Messiah who is your life, is revealed, then you are also revealed with Him in glory" (Col. 3:3-4). "O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?" (1 Cor. 15:55).

What is it that you believe?

Ephraim

GENEALOGY OF THE FIRSTBORN

2008-05-23T16:45:00.004+03:00

May 9, 2008

Chapter Five of Genesis is essentially an inventory that lists the fathers, from Adam all the way to Noah. Why was it necessary for YHVH Elohim to list these men in His records? As mentioned before, these ones belonged to Him and thus His name had been inscribed upon them for His redemptive purposes. These forefathers form the genealogy of the “firstborn”. The meanings of their names outline a prophetic picture:

Adam: man; Seth: appointed; Enosh: mortal; Kenan: sorrow; Mahalalel: one who praises Elohim; Jarad: will come down; Enoch: dedicated; Methuselah: his death shall send; Lemech: hidden king (the letters for the word "king" - "melech" - are jumbled up and hence hidden in "Lemech"), and Noah: rest. Thus, from the very beginning YHVH hints at His redemptive plan for Mankind. The message that these names form is therefore: To man is appointed mortal sorrow, (but) one who praises Elohim will come down and dedicate (himself), his death bringing the king (although hidden – and may I add, for a time) and rest.

The above mentioned patriarchs of humanity were all firstborn, or had filled that position because of unfaithfulness of an older brother. Each of them was like a prince in YHVH’s Kingdom Order, and therefore did not belong to himself. They carried the anointing as elders, or redeemers, of the family and potential possessors of the birthrights after the death of the father. However, because of the sin nature in them, having been born of the natural lineage of Adam, they could never qualify to inherit the spiritual Kingdom of YHVH and enjoy the full benefits of their place as YHVH's servant-princes and priests, for they themselves were in need of a redeemer. Nevertheless, they still held the rights of the "firstborn". Noah and his son Shem were the last of the firstborn patriarchs who lived before YHVH's judgment, in the form of a flood, made an end of that world, and its habitation.

Noah both trusted YHVH, and was obedient to Him. Had Noah not been more righteous than his contemporaries (ref. Genesis 6:9) he obviously would not have qualified for the position of the firstborn, but "Noah found favor in the eyes of YHVH" (Genesis 6:8) and YHVH preserved him and his family. YHVH needed to have this firstborn to father and populate the earth again and to continue the lineage of the ones who belonged to Him and who carried His name, according to the laws that govern His Kingdom. Noah was the only rightful heir to the promises and blessings that the Creator gave to Adam, that is to be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth and have dominion, or rule, over all living things.

After, the flood waters receded, YHVH established an additional covenant with His family, the rainbow in the clouds. The rainbow is a very significant sign, as man is likened to a mist, or a cloud (ref. Psalms 91:11; James 4:14 etc.), but when the unseen rays of the sun hit those little particles they reveal the hues of the light. How much more will the beauty of His glory shine through us, His vessels of righteousness, and revealing the essence of His nature?

Scripture records that Noah was five hundred years old when his three sons were born. Interestingly, because of the wording in Genesis 5:32 some speculate that they had to be triplets. But even if that were the case, only one could have been the first to emerge out of the womb. Additionally, Shem’s name is first on the list of the siblings, and thus we are safe in drawing the conclusion that he belonged to the firstborn order. This fact was also borne out when Noah spoke over his sons (ref. Genesis 9:25-27).

These words were uttered sometime after the family came out of the ark, in the wake of a strange and puzzling episode. Noah, who had planted a vineyard, enjoyed its fruit (wine) to the point of becoming so inebriated that he exposed himself. His son Ham looked upon his father's nakedness, whilst his brothers took meticulous care not to do so. There is a lot of speculation concerning what had actually occurred that day, as it is rather odd that one male looking on the nakedness of another would generate such grave consequences, as was the case in this situation. Torah defines for us what constitutes "exposing or uncovering of nakedness": “The nakedness of your father's wife you shall not uncover; it is your father's nakedness” (Leviticus 18:8 emphasis added); and again: “And the man that lies with his father's wife has uncovered his father's nakedness" (Leviticus 20:11). If Ham had indeed sexually defiled his father’s wife, his own mother, or even looked upon her, it indeed would have been a major transgression.

Ham's action resulted in a curse over his fourth born son, Canaan, who was destined to be a slave of slaves. It was the latter's territory that YHVH gave to Abram and his firstborn progeny. This will be covered in more detail later.

Shem’s right as a firstborn was made even clearer, judging by Noah's own words: “…blessed be YHVH Elohim of Shem; and Canaan shall be his servant. Elohim shall enlarge Japheth, and he shall dwell in the tents of Shem; and Canaan shall be his servant'" (Genesis 9:26-27). Several important Torah facts are presented in this short blessing. It is imperative to stress these matters at the outset, because this prediction is an embryonic form of what is approaching maturity in our day and age.

As we have already seen, it says: “Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures throughout all generations" (Psalm 145: 13). Consequently YHVH was establishing His Kingdom arrangement in the family of Noah and his firstborn son Shem. Notice that Canaan was to be a servant of the servants. Who are the servants that he was to serve? Shem and Japheth, each of whom, respectively, was also to be a servant; Japheth was to serve in the tent of Shem. This statement established Shem as the responsible head of his father’s house, or tent. But how was Shem to serve? This takes us back to the firstborn position. As such, he was to serve his father and the One to whom he belonged, that is, YHVH Elohim. Shem was the prince of the family and responsible for the well-being of all his relatives; he was to be his brothers’ keeper and redeemer. YHVH inscribed His name upon Shem because Shem belonged to Him. Noah, therefore, blessed and praised YHVH, the Elohim of Shem. At this point in time YHVH was governing the family through Noah. But then a problem arose…

Ephraim

FIRST FRUIT

2008-05-23T16:40:00.005+03:00

In previous letters I pointed out that James had singled out the twelve tribes as the first fruit of a new order. Why were the sons of Jacob chosen and predestined for this purpose? Why does YHVH Elohim call Israel His firstborn (ref Exodus 4:22)? Why does He also call Ephraim a firstborn (ref Jeremiah 31:9)? What is behind this first fruit administrative order of YHVH’s redemption and Kingdom on earth? In order to understand this arrangement we will have to continue following the Torah principles, especially as they are expounded in Genesis. The Genesis account is a microcosm of what is a macrocosm today, as the life and covenant calling of the forefathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob have been passed on to their posterity, who are alive and well in our day and age. As we follow the history of YHVH’s Kingdom and its restoration to all Israel, the recurring theme of the "first fruit order" will accompany us all the way through.

The importance of the first fruit/firstborn principle within the family of Adam becomes evident right away. Scripture records that when Cain and Abel were of age, each of them brought an offering to YHVH Elohim. Because he was a tiller of the ground and grew crops, Cain offered some of his fruit to YHVH. Abel, who tended flocks of sheep and goats, took of his firstlings and offered them to the Creator. YHVH did not accept Cain’s contribution, but He did look favorably upon Abel’s. This had an adverse effect upon Cain, who became very angry. Unable to overcome sin's temptation, he eventually murdered his brother. Several questions come to mind. Why did YHVH not regard Cain’s offering, but accepted Abel’s? What caused Cain to harbor evil desires against his brother, and why did YHVH ask him as to the whereabouts of His brother, when He already knew? Why did Cain respond so defensively, saying: “am I my brother’s keeper”?

Pondering these questions and having studied further the Torah laws, statutes and ordinances, I discovered an interesting scripture that shed light on the reason for YHVH’s rejection of Cain’s offering and His acceptance of Abel’s. In Exodus 23:19 it says that "the first of the first fruits of your land you shall bring into the house of your Elohim” (Exodus 23:19, emphasis added). Some contend that because Cain was a tiller of the ground, which was cursed, YHVH could not accept his offering. But if that were the case, was Cain at fault for being a farmer? And furthermore, if the ground was cursed why did YHVH put the above mentioned ordinance in the Torah?

The same ordinance goes for the first fruit of the womb, whether of man or beast: “Sanctify unto me all the firstborn, whatsoever opens the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and of beast: it is mine" (Exodus 13:2). These scriptures explain why Elohim did not accept Cain’s offering. A closer look at Genesis 4:3 reveals that Cain held back for himself the first fruit of the ground: “Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto YHVH” (Genesis 4:3). This unrighteous behavior had a very devastating consequence and was the reason why sin was already stalking Cain. Since Cain was a firstborn, and did not belong to himself, he had birthrights that awaited him were he to qualify by being obedient to YHVH’s righteous instructions.

Unlike his brother, Abel demonstrated righteousness. Note that he even offered up the fat when he brought of the firstlings of his flock. Thus his offering was accepted. Abel did not hold back that which belonged to his Creator. But what caused Cain's anger to flare up over this matter, and why did he vent this anger on his brother? The answer to this question is crucial in understanding a problem that keeps arising in families throughout the Scriptures and even to this generation. As we keep examining YHVH's Kingdom and His Redemption's Story, the answer to the above question will begin to open up a mystery.

Cain and Abel were out in the field together when Cain struck the deathblow to his brother. YHVH warned Cain that sin was crouching and ready to pounce on him, if he would not turn from his jealousy and hatred toward his brother. Obviously YHVH’s rejection of his offering was not the only motive behind Cain’s behavior. His anger was the result of the loss of his firstborn birthrights, having not fulfilled his obligations to the One to whom he belonged. It was for this reason that the Almighty posed a challenge before Cain, regarding the whereabouts of his brother. In his sarcastic response Cain was expressing defiance toward Elohim, since as the firstborn he would not have been unaware of his responsibilities toward his sibling.

Once he realized that he had been cast off and that his rights were given over to his brother, Cain fell prey to the nature of the power of sin. Spirits of rejection, jealousy, retaliation, rage and ultimately murder invaded his being. This example of a firstborn losing his birthrights to a younger brother also illustrates the principle of the "first Adam" losing his rights to the Second One. “The first man was of the earth, made of dust; the second Man is the Adon[Master] from heaven” (1 Corinthians 15:47).

Now that Cain lost the position of the firstborn and Abel was dead, there was no one in the family who could carry on the responsibility of a future father and redeemer, and so Eve conceived another son. This son was born in the image and likeness of Adam's (sin) nature (ref Genesis 4:25-26). With Seth begins the genealogy of the firstborn, and the commencement of the story of YHVH’s Kingdom Order in the family of Adam.

Ephraim

THE LAMB AND BEAST

2008-05-23T16:15:00.004+03:00

During my morning walk just recently, I found myself contemplating on "Yeshua riding the beast of burden" (donkey) that had carried Him into Jerusalem. As we know, it was four days before Pesach that the priests and the faithful carried the lambs to the Temple for the sacrifice. These lambs were then examined for the next four days for any blemishes. Those that were found perfect were the ones to be sacrificed on the 14th day of the month. One can almost picture the scene of Yeshua, "the lamb of Elohim", coming into the city on that donkey, while the priests were carrying the lambs along the same route.

Why was Yeshua riding that beast of burden? Obviously the familiar prophecy of the suffering Messiah in Zechariah 9:9 had to be fulfilled:
"Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey." As I walked along the security fence, viewing the groves of olive trees where the Arab farmers bring their donkeys, during olive harvest, I kept thinking about the "beast" that the Lamb had been riding (ref Matthew 21: 2-9). I recalled the scripture about the firstborn foal of a donkey that had to be redeemed by a lamb: "But every firstborn of a donkey you shall redeem with a lamb; and if you will not redeem it, then you shall break its neck. And all the firstborn of man among your sons you shall redeem" (Exodus 13:13). And then the inevitable question popped up: what is the connection between Man and this beast of burden?

In Psalm 73 David identifies himself before YHVH as a beast:
"I was so foolish and ignorant; I was like a beast before You" (ve. 22).
Psalm 49:12 and 20 declare: "Man in his pomp, yet without understanding, is like the beasts that perish". Then there was Nebuchadnezzar, representing the head of the statue of Man. In his pride the Babylonian monarch worshiped the works of his hands. As a result YHVH changed his heart/nature to that of a beast, and sent him out to eat grass (ref. Daniel 4:16). After a period of time the king recognized that "the Most High is sovereign over all the kingdoms of men" (Daniel 4: 17).

Truly, unredeemed man is like a beast of burden and in need of a lamb who takes away that heavy yoke /guilt of Sin. Yeshua, referring to His role as the sacrificial and redeeming Lamb, said: "Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light" (Matthew 11:29-30).

The most common word for donkey, or ass, in Hebrew is "chamor" ("ch" pronounced as the "ch" in the Scottish "loch"). It is also the word that appears in the above-mentioned verse in Zechariah 9:9. Interestingly, the root of that noun, ch.m.r, is also the root for "chomer", which is clay. Job prayed: "Oh, remember that you fashioned me from clay! Will you then bring me down to dust again?" (Job 10:9 emphasis added). Isaiah also points out: "Shall the clay say to him who forms it, 'What are you making?' Or shall your handiwork say, 'He has no hands'?" (Isaiah 45:9 emphasis added). "Clay", then, is to the "donkey" what "earth" is to "man" (earth is "adama", and man is "adam"). Thus it should not come as a surprise that the animal, whose firstborn had to be redeemed by a lamb, was the donkey/chamor (ref Exodus 13:13).

The connection between the firstborn of man and the donkey rings loud and clear, as YHVH's Lamb riding the "chamor" portrayed the Lamb for the Sacrifice that the Man of Clay (chomer) - Adam the sinner - had to carry to the Temple (ref. Leviticus 5:6), thus owning up publicly to his fallen state. On the national level, Israel, being YHVH's firstborn nation had (and has) to be redeemed by the Lamb. Thus, Yeshua's entry to Jerusalem was a clear sign of the Almighty's intent to restore His people, His inheritance, to Himself.

During the days of the first waves of immigration to the Land of Israel (beginning of the 20th century), in the wake of the Zionist renewal, one prominent rabbi who supported the movement was criticized for accepting its extremely secular members. His answer to his detractors was that these builders of Zion were the "donkey of Messiah", ushering in His kingdom and rule.

When Yeshua sent his disciples to fetch the donkey and its colt, He told them that if anyone was to ask them why they were taking the animals, they were to say: "the Master has need of them" (Matthew 21:3). At this season let us take to heart the fact that as Messiah's 'redeemed donkey', the King of kings HAS NEED OF US!

Ephraim and Rimona

THE SEED PRINCIPLE

2008-05-23T16:08:00.003+03:00

As mentioned in the previous chapter, man was made in the image and likeness of his Creator. Now in order to understand how YHVH Elohim could view natural and earthy man in His own image/shadow and likeness/character, we must rely on one of the Apostles' commentaries. The Creator, being Spirit, Word, Life and Light (glory), and having made Himself known in the things which He has created, has also made man in His image and likeness. But in what way does man express the image and likeness of the Creator?

YHVH Elohim formed man from the dust of the earth and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life – "neshama", and thus man became a living being (nephesh chaya). Paul the Apostle writes: “And so it is written, ‘the first man Adam became a living being.’ The last Adam became a life-giving spirit. However, the spiritual is not first, but the natural, and afterward the spiritual. The first man was of the earth, made of dust; the second Man is the Master from heaven" (1 Corinthians 15:45-47).

Paul describes natural man as an entity that is sown: “But someone will say, ‘How are the dead raised up? And with what body do they come?’ Foolish one, what you sow is not made alive unless it dies. And what you sow, you do not sow that body that shall be, but mere grain [seed] -- perhaps wheat or some other grain. But Elohim gives it a body as He pleases, and to each seed its own body” (1 Corinthians 15:35-38).

These verses portray what I call the principle of the seed: YHVH Elohim "gives it its form", as He has determined. He sows it, it falls to the ground and dies, but after being watered it comes back to life in a whole new form. The new figure, or shape, will look just like the parent plant, and will bear the same “image and likeness”. Thus, natural man (Adam) is actually only an outer shell of a seed, as it were. When that seed falls to the ground and dies, another image will appear, or be resurrected from the dust, becoming like the parent, and in this case the “Father” - YHVH Elohim..

Paul uses another analogy to describe this phenomenon, “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of YHVH, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, according the original (likeness) of the Spirit of YHVH” (2 Corinthians 3:18). The Greek word metamorphoo is translated “transformed”. As we know, this is what happens to a caterpillar while inside its cocoon. How many of us, when looking at that caterpillar (natural man), can see the butterfly within (that is, the New Creation Man)?

Elohim placed His own breath (the neshama) into His created being and called him Adam (while in Hebrew adama is earth). Man was the only fashioned creature into whom YHVH Elohim breathed His own breath. But Adam's spirit-life would remain in its embryonic form until the appropriate season would come for Adam (the "seed") to be "sown". To use another metaphor, the Creator's Spirit-life within Adam was but a flickering flame. However, after falling away from the relationship with the Source, through disobedience, the flame diminished into a mere spark; a spark that would smolder until the time of redemption, when the wind/breath of the Spirit of YHVH would once again ignite it into a flame.

This original Spirit that was breathed into the core of human life was the tselem (image), and d’moot (likeness) of the Creator. Let us take a look at the meaning of these two words. The first is tselem (image), in which is hidden the word tsel (shadow or silhouette); a form that does not have its own existence apart from the object that blocks the light and casts its shape upon a given area.

The second Hebrew word d’moot, is much more revealing in that it comes from the root “dam” or "blood". Because life is in the blood and the nature is in the life, YHVH's life and nature would be resident in the "blood". “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of Elohim; and every one that loves is born of Elohim, and knows Elohim. He that loves not, knows not Elohim; for Elohim is love [agape]” (1John 4:7-8; 16). In a much more literal way, “YHVH was in Messiah reconciling the world unto Himself” (2 Corinthians 5:19, emphasis added). How was that possible, unless the life of the Father was in Yeshua’s blood? Thus, without the blood/life of the Messiah, man cannot be anything but a two-dimensional silhouette in relationship to his Elohim. Interestingly, tzelem is also the term that Scripture often employs to describe the false gods, that is images and idols.

To reiterate the point: YHVH placed His very nature into the heart of man. The seed (man) would be sown under the guiding hand of the Husbandman and this inner life would remain hidden in the dust of his humanity, the earthiness of his being, until such a time that the Creator would send His Word in the form of another Man (His Son), who would take natural Adam into death and burial.

“For the love of Messiah constrains us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead, and that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again” (2 Corinthians 5:14-15). When YHVH's Son died, all men died. “Or do you not know that as many of us as were immersed into Messiah Yeshua were submerged into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through immersion into death, that just as Messiah was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:3-4).

In his horticultural analogy Paul concludes that there is an order: “For as in Adam [the seed] all die, even so in the Messiah shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Messiah the first fruits, afterward they that are Messiah's at his coming/appearing"
(1 Corinthians 15:22-23). In speaking of this order Paul emphasizes, first the natural (seed), then the spiritual. This "agricultural" reality has continued throughout all history. Scripture refers to those who will experience the process of death, burial and resurrection and calls them the “first fruit of the new creation” (James 1:18). Please note that James addresses his letter to the tribes of Israel.

Thus, a first-fruit of the seed of Adam was to come forth into the newness of life in the judicial order that YHVH predetermined.

THE FOURTH, FIFTH AND SIXTH DAYS

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When Elohim created the firmament on the second day, as we saw in the previous chapter, it was not declared good. However, the sun, moon and stars placed within the firmament on the fourth day, were declared good. YHVH was using the greater light to rule the natural day, and the lesser light, with all the stars for ruling the natural night. These He created in order to illustrate a divine order and to reveal hidden spiritual realities, as well as for signs and seasons.

Let us take, for example the promise to the forefathers that their seed, "Israel", would be like the stars of heaven. Could this be more than a mere reference to numbers, being an indication that they were also to become a light and governing influence in this spiritual realm of darkness? And what's more, that they, like the stars, would be used for signs and for seasons in YHVH's Redemption timetable. Another illustration is seen in the life of one Israelite – Joseph – in whose dreams his family appeared as the sun, moon and stars. Yeshua was also referred to as the "Bright and Morning Star" (ref. 2 Peter 1:19; Revelation 22:16), revealing the fact that He holds a very specific position amongst the "stars of Israel" (also Numbers 24:17).

The spiritual demonstration of YHVH’s reality occurs daily. During the day we cannot see the stars or the moon, for their light is absorbed in the brightness of the presence of the greater light, just as it is in the life of the redeemed: "…Your life is hidden in Messiah in Elohim” (Colossians 3:3). This sets an example for what will take place at the end of the night order, when the Father’s day of redemption will dawn fully through His Son: " The sun shall no longer be your light by day, nor for brightness shall the moon give light to you; but YHVH Elohim will be to you an everlasting light, and your Elohim your glory. Your sun shall no longer go down, nor shall your moon withdraw itself; for YHVH Elohim will be your everlasting light” (Isaiah 60:19-20; refer also to Revelation 21:23).

In the course of the creation process, the Creator brought forth by His Word, a progression of life forms. Though the creative Word emanated out of the Realm of Light, it materialized in life forms that originated either from the waters/seas or from the dry ground/earth both of which were immersed in Spiritual Darkness. Like the plants, so now the reptiles and the birds, each carried the uniqueness of its particular species or kind, bearing witness to some aspect of the Creator’s Life and Nature that had been embedded within them. Elohim’s intent was that each kind would multiply and fill the earth. The environment was perfect for this growing process, but every species was in need of YHVH's ongoing rule, management and administration. So Elohim ended the Fifth Day with another evening and another morning, pronouncing it “good”.

On the Sixth Day YHVH's Word created still higher forms of nephesh chaya (a living soul). These types were permeated with instincts and learning capabilities that would respond to discipline, or training, by yet another species - Man – who was the last on the list of creation. Unlike those who reproduce by oviposition (egg-depositing), these Sixth Day creatures, having to carry for a term their young in their own bodies, would be reproducing in smaller numbers. They would also depend for their survival upon a more sophisticated eco-system.

The ground work had now been laid by Elohim for the crown of His creation, the one genus that would become the expression and heart of His own nature, and would be given the responsibility to name, manage, rule and serve the rest of the living creatures that had been brought forth previously.

“And Elohim said, ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth’” (Genesis 1:26)… “And YHVH Elohim formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” (Genesis 2:7).

As we see from the above quote, YHVH Elohim created Man from the dust of the earth. The earth and its dust were brought forth from a realm of spiritual waters that was faced or governed by the spirit world of Darkness. Natural Man was going to be YHVH Elohim’s expression, or conduit, to subdue, rule over and put into order this realm of potential chaos, disorder and rebellion. In other words, Man would have the delegated authority to establish YHVH’s Kingdom here on earth, as it exists in heaven. But because Man was created from this very earthy and natural substance, he had an inherent weakness which would ultimately show up and express itself. Yet YHVH planted within natural Man a mystery. A closer look at the words He pronounced, when He created man, will allow us to get a glimpse of this mystery: “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness”. How is it that Man (both male and female), could look like Elohim and yet be earthy? How can something created from a substance of Darkness be an expression of the Light? This will be discussed in the following chapter.

Just as we have seen in the preceding Days of Creation, Elohim was watching over His Word to do, accomplish, perform, fulfill and bring to completion whatever He had designated for it to do. What He spoke came to pass, and even now, in our generation, this should be our reality. His word is an anointing (a moving and determining force) in and upon the life of our forefathers throughout all their progeny, even to the present and beyond, until all that has been spoken and promised is fulfilled. The Word of Elohim, Yeshua the Messiah, is the same yesterday, today and forever (ref. Hebrews 13:8)!

“Your faithfulness endures to all generations; You established the earth, and it abides” (Psalm 119:90).

SECOND AND THIRD DAYS

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From the very beginning, Elohim had determined that humanity would be cognizant of the fact that He is faithful to perform that which He had declared. This is a fundamental principle demonstrated in the very act of creation: "And Elohim said…. And it was so…" YHVH declared in no uncertain terms that He "would watch over His word to perform it” (Jeremiah 1:12), and that He will accomplish and fulfill all that He has spoken by the mouths of all His holy prophets from of old (ref. Acts 3: 20). There is, therefore, an assurance and guarantee that His redemptive plan, backed up by His faithfulness, will find its total fulfillment in the fullness of the times and seasons.

The two contrasting spiritual realms which faced the waters (i.e. the Spirit of Elohim and the Darkness, respectively) had been separated from each other already in the first day. However, the waters had not as of yet been divided. Thus on the second day "… Elohim said, ‘Let there be a firmament (ra’kee’ah) in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters’"… “And Elohim called the firmament heaven (sha’mayim) (Genesis 1: 6, 8). Please note that He divided "waters from waters" and not "waters from earth" (also ref 2 Peter 3:5). Whether the term waters refers to the H2O kind, with its three different forms of consistency, or whether that term describes some kind of spiritual condition is not known. Never-the-less, YHVH decided to separate the waters that were faced by His Light and Spirit from the waters that were faced by the darkness, thus creating three distinct "heavens".

Interestingly, Elohim did not call the firmament "good" as it did not have eternal value. It would only be there to keep the two areas separated until the Creator’s redemptive plan would come to completion, and then as described by the Prophet Isaiah and the Apostle John, "All the host of heaven shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll: and all their host shall fall down, as the leaf falls off from the vine, and as a falling fig from the fig tree” (Isaiah 34:4); "And the heaven [firmament] departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places" (Revelation 6:14).

At this juncture in the creation process there are three separate and distinct spaces, or heavens: 1) an outer, or upper level, or third heaven (refer to 2 Corinthians 12:2), which is the dwelling place of the Most High and is the realm of Light; 2) a middle, or an in-between area called the firmament, or second heaven and 3) the lower level, or the deep that is still faced by that realm of spiritual darkness, which after the third day will be called earth with its atmosphere and natural bodies of water called "seas". If we could but step back and see how infinitesimally small this area of darkness actually is, compared to the massive universe of the second and third heavens, it would give us a different perspective on YHVH's supremacy over His creation.

On the third day of creation we see a very important aspect of YHVH's manifested Word: “And Elohim said, 'Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so'. And Elohim called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters He called Seas, and Elohim saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:9, 10). The Creator took the waters that were under the firmament; the waters that were faced by the darkness and gathered and compressed them together to form the dry land or earth, and its seas. Interestingly, the Hebrew word used for the "gathering" of the waters is of the same root as the word for hope ("tikvah), intimating that there was "hope" embedded within this realm that was devoid of spiritual life and light.

The Maker chose this realm of spiritual darkness, and all that He would create within that sphere, to ultimately reveal Himself and His nature. Light cannot be seen in light, as an opposite medium (darkness) is needed in order to see it. If all natural light could be extinguished, nothing would be seen. But when light appears, it is reflected from all the things around. Thus, it is actually the different hues or colors, of the invisible rays of light that are seen reflecting from any object. In other words, paradoxically what we see is actually the unseen.

Here is how the Bible describes the above principle: “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of Elohim, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear” (Hebrews 11:3). “While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal”
(2 Corinthians 4:18). “For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and divine nature; so that they are without excuse” (Romans 1:20).

Before the third day was over Elohim created grass, herbs and fruit trees; each with its own distinct seed. Since there was no natural sunlight in the third day, without which plants cannot exist, the question arises, "What was the state of these plants?" This unmistakably leads to the conclusion that Elohim created the seed first, and sowed it into the ground.

Like any good farmer, YHVH knows what the mature plant will look like, in view of the fact that the seed contains within it the very likeness of its respective grass, herb, or tree. Although the seed is totally different from the plant, after it falls to the ground and is watered, it will grow to look like its progenitor. Genesis 2:5 makes an indication of this order or process: "And there was no shrub of the field yet in the earth, and no herb of the field had yet sprouted, for YHVH Elohim had not rained upon the earth, and there was no man there to serve the ground" (literal translation). Each plant or herb that springs up out of the ground starts its existence as a seed. We will take a closer look at the “seed principle”.

IN THE BEGINNING

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March 21, 2008

The content of the next four chapters is a slight deviation from the storyline of redemption, but is essential in order to establish a foundation for understanding the Creator's faithfulness to accomplish all that has been spoken through His prophets from of old. Please bear with me, as some of this may be new to many who have been taught something different. Satan is not the mastermind behind the fall of man. YHVH's sovereignty remains in tact, His will and Word govern His Kingdom and His purposes for the creation.

Let us now digress slightly from following the Divine Order in the family of Adam, and reflect on the Creation account in order to reinforce Elohim's faithfulness to His Word. His Word, as well as His Kingdom, is a manifestation of Himself. What YHVH says is what will be, for He calls Himself "I will be what/whom I will be" (literal Hebrew translation of Exodus 3:14 – E'he'ye Asher E'heye). His Spirit is the power that carries out what He decrees by His Word. Viewing His characteristic of consistency will help us better understand His Plan of Redemption, as revealed in the Creation process. This will also have significant implication upon our faith in the covenants, promises and prophecies that He would make at a later point.

The opening lines of Scripture, "In the beginning Elohim created the heaven and the earth" (Genesis 1:1), comprise a statement of intent; as in the first verse of the second chapter it is written, “Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them” (Genesis 2:1). What took place then, between those two verses, was the process and order of creation, until its completion at the end of the sixth day, for "on the seventh day Elohim ended His work which He had made; and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had made" (Genesis 2:2).

According to Genesis 1:2, “The earth was without form and void…” Thus, the location where the creation process was to take place was called earth (eretz), although at that point it (the earth) had not yet taken its present form. This transformation would occur only on Day Three of the manifestation of Elohim’s Word.

"And darkness was on the face of the deep…" What kind of darkness was over the face of the deep, and how did this spiritual condition of darkness come about? We understand that at one point in eternity past there was an angel, a created spiritual entity called Lucifer (Hey'lel Ben Shachar), whose name means light bearer or shining one. This entity coveted the position of the Most High, and is hence addressed by the following: "How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning!” (Isaiah 14:12). Thus, when he was expelled from heaven his light was removed from him, as well as the light of all those who had rebelled with him, and his abode was left in a state devoid of (spiritual) light. This realm of the deep was now characterized and described by the terms tohoo va’vohoo and "sheol" (ref. Isaiah 14:15).

The spiritual state devoid of light and life was in total opposition to the nature of the Spirit of the Creator. Nevertheless, this contrast was very important and necessary in Elohim's plan, as the darkness was destined to become the medium through which He will manifest His Word and reveal Himself. The principle of "light out of darkness", and by the same token "death out of life", is at the very core of redemption. And so, the Spirit of Elohim hovered, or brewed, over the face of all that was called "waters", including the realm of darkness, indicating that YHVH had not lost His sovereignty.

"Then Elohim said 'Let there be light'" (Genesis 1: 3). Keeping in mind that everything that was brought forth by Elohim's Word revealed aspects of His nature, the Light was also a type of manifestation, or emanation, of Himself. This Light was not natural light, as the luminaries had not yet been created, but the very essence of the Creator’s nature! It is the highest form of Life and the quintessence of His being. This Light also contains all the laws, statutes, and ordinances that govern His Kingdom and its administration, as revealed in the light of Torah.[1] Because Elohim is Light, by necessity He had to separate the Light from the Darkness. Had He not separated one from the other, there would have been no darkness, as the light would have swallowed it up. However, it should be noted that as far as YHVH is concerned, there is no difference between light and darkness (ref, Psalm 139: 12).

[1] A well known Hebrew idiom is Torah-Ora (or "Torah Or"), that is - "Torah-Light". The Aramaic term for Torah is "Orah'y'ta", thus combining "light" and "Torah".

DOMINION - RULE

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March 14, 2008

As I turned to the first Chapter of Genesis, I began to read it prayerfully verse by verse. But it was primarily one word that illumined the path to further understanding: “Then Elohim said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion - vayirdu - over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth’ " (Genesis 1:26 emphasis added).

Upon this discovery, my thoughts burst out joyfully: “Of course, dominion; YHVH’s Kingdom, rule and sovereignty were already present in the beginning-- with Adam and Eve!” Both man and his wife were delegated authority to rule and serve all the other living creatures that YHVH had created in the fifth and sixth days.

Two verses later, the very same word caught my attention again: “And Elohim blessed them, and Elohim said unto them, ‘be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion – u’rdu - over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moves upon the earth’ ” (Genesis 1:28 emphasis added).

The Creator did not relinquish His own sovereignty, but instead entrusted a dual position to Man (both male and female): “And YHVH Elohim took the man, and put him into the Garden of Eden [delight] to till [work/serve] it and to guard [watch over] it” (Genesis 2:15). Thus Man was to be an “Eved” (servant) and a “Shomer” (watchman). The dominion that was granted to Man/Woman in YHVH’s Kingdom on earth was, therefore, that of a servant-king-priest, ruling over all living creatures. As watchmen, Man and Woman would "walk with" the Creator; in other words they would have an intimate relationship with Him and thus receive from Him His Life and Light. This Life and Light they were to minister to the creation. However, Man was not to rule or have dominion over other human beings. That position was reserved to Elohim alone, who was King of kings (or Sovereign) over all.

As long as Man would maintain his relationship with Elohim through obedience, this state of harmony would prevail. But if Man were to fail to live up to the Creator's instructions, he would experience the consequence of a broken relationship with Him. Elohim, fully aware of the weakness inherent in natural Man and what this weakness would cause, had prepared a way even before the foundation of the world for restoring humanity's relationship with Himself. His scheme for dealing with Man's rebellion, or disobedience, and fall under Satan's kingdom authority is alluded to in the following words: "And I will put enmity between you [talking to the serpent] and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel ["akev" in Hebrew - root word for Yaacov – Jacob] (Genesis 3:15).

The fulfillment of this enigmatic pronouncement would have to wait until the time that a New Covenant would be made with the house of Israel and Judah (ref. Jeremiah 31:31). The New Covenant had been designed into Elohim's plan, to be fulfilled through a faithful Firstborn-Redeemer-Son, born of the seed of a woman (ref. Genesis 3:15; Mathew 1:23), who would ratify it by His blood. On the day when the intended recipients of the New Covenant will finally enter their promised restoration it will lead to their union; they will become the one house of Jacob – or heel company. As such, they will magnify their Redeemer's victory over the enemy, fulfilling the words penned by the apostle Paul: "And the Elohim of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly" (Romans 16:20).

In the book of Revelation we get a glimpse into YHVH's judicial order of redemption; reference is made there to a scroll that was to the right-hand of the throne (ref. Revelation 5.1). The requirement to take and break the seals of this scroll in which were specified the terms for redemption and restoration (cf. Jeremiah 32: 6-16), was so high that no one in heaven, on earth or under the earth qualified. As we see from this text, Elohim's Son was the only one able to meet the stringent conditions. The provision, therefore, for restoration was not an afterthought.

From the very beginning, Elohim had determined that humanity would be cognizant of the fact that He is faithful to perform that which He had declared. This is a fundamental principle demonstrated in the very act of creation: "And Elohim said…. And it was so…" YHVH declared in no uncertain terms that He "would watch over His word to perform it” (Jeremiah 1:12), and that He will accomplish and fulfill all that He has spoken by the mouths of all His holy prophets from of old (ref. Acts 3: 20). There is, therefore, an assurance and guarantee that His redemptive plan, backed up by His faithfulness, will find its total fulfillment in the fullness of the times and seasons.

TERRORIST ATTACK

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March 7, 2008

This week I will not be sending another chapter in the sequel of chapters that you have received in the past 3 weeks. There are some pressing matters at hand which I felt led to address.

By now most of you have heard about the terrorist attack that took place yesterday in a Jerusalem Yeshiva (school for Jewish religious studies). There are thousands of Yeshivas in this city, but this was not just an ordinary school. This particular Yeshiva is known for its right wing Zionist stance. Rabbi Kook, the founder of the Yeshiva (84 years ago), also laid the ideology of the religious Zionist movement (as in Jewish Orthodoxy there was, and still is in some circles, a tremendous opposition to Zionism, especially when the movement was birthed). The settlement movement in Judea and Samaria is therefore largely the outcome and fruit of the ideology which this Yeshiva stands for. By targeting this institution, the terrorists are sending a much more calculated message to the world than by blowing up a bus. They struck the very heart of Biblical fulfillment of prophecy, and its participants. The choice of this particular day, the eve of the New Moon of the (second) month of Adar, which stands for joy, turned the celebrations so sinisterly into mourning.

The Israeli security forces foil hundreds of terrorist attempts weekly, making this particular one no small 'success' on the part of the terrorist organizations. Yet, because the terrorist came from within Jerusalem and was the owner of an Israeli I.D. and did not have to tackle a guard at the entrance of the Yeshiva, his task was made very simple. Gaza's residents were jubilant and broke out into wild celebrations. Will this be a setback to the peace process and to President Bush's aspiration to form a Palestinian State in the West Bank and Gaza by the end of the year? One of Israel's intellectuals, a University professor, came out with the declaration that the only solution is through diplomatic means, bringing Hamas and the PA to the negotiating table. That same individual said that Hamas is the legitimate democratically elected representative of the Palestinian people, and must be a part of the peace process. This professor agreed that in spite of Hamas' open declaration of their intent to destroy the Jewish State we must negotiate with them at any cost. In other words, we are to commit national suicide. This same message was subtly echoed by our government, in that there was not one government representative at the funerals today.

Incidentally, this Shabbat's Parasha (Torah reading), which concludes the book of Exodus is called Pkudey (ref Ex. 38:21 to the end). In it are itemized the Mishkan's sacred articles, but also the "pkudey" of the congregation. The root p.k.d means to number, visit, enlist, make inventory of etc. But in another conjugation p.k.d lends itself to a verb which means to "be absent" or "missing" (e.g. Numbers 31:49). As this Shabbat is coming in, eight of our choicest youth are no longer with us.

Prophecy informs us that a war between Israel and the surrounding nations is unavoidable. This war is not Israel's war; it is the battle of the Elohim of Israel. Will the Jewish Biblical Zionists be able to stand alone in their fight for the Land, the People, and the Torah?

The question is what is our role as Ephraimites in YHVH's plan? In what way are we going to be "pkudey ha'eda", the "numbered ones of the Congregation" of Israel? In many ways this movement is still very young, as the restoration of the second stick/nation has just begun. We are much like Joseph in his youth. Joseph was reared in the tent of an idol worshiping mother – Rachel (ref. Gen 31:34), who may be compared to the "Church". Joseph was her firstborn son, as are the sons of Ephraim – "B'ney Ephraim" in Hebrew. Joseph was given a princely garment which was a sign of his status in the family. He had dreams of his brothers bowing down to him, not unlike some in this restoration movement who are aspiring (each in his respective field of biblical expertise) to 'show our brothers a thing or two'.

Paul warns the Believers that "when we think we are something when we are nothing we deceive ourselves" (Gal. 6:3). He also reminds the wild olive branches (B'ney Ephraim) not to be arrogant in their attitude toward the natural branches (Yeudah), because the former only stand by faith (ref. Rom 11: 20-21). But on the other hand, are we to stand by idly, doing nothing? Joseph, for example, when he didn't find his brothers in his father's field around Shechem (ref. Gen. 37:1-17), did not just return home and tattle on his brothers again. No. He kept on looking for them with great care. Today, although the House of Judah is not exactly where the Father would want them, Joseph/Ephraim is not to just abandon his responsibility in seeking them out and in lending them a hand. There are millions of Jews yet to return to the land from the American continent, from Russia and other places. Out of those who have returned, many are poor and needy. Within this group there are widows and orphans, elderly Holocaust survivors and handicapped people.

In Jeremiah 31:9 and 1Chronicles 5:1 YHVH states: "Ephraim is my firstborn". As a first-born we must recognize that we do not belong to ourselves (ref Num. 3:13) and should not espouse attitudes of self-interest, pride, and self-righteousness. These were some of Joseph's traits that led YHVH to take him through years of suffering, in order to prepare him for his future role as a leader and redeemer of the family. May the Ephraimite nation walk alongside our brother Judah in humbleness and servitude! We are YHVH's mercy vessels. Pray that we all might know what to do in order to render help and exercise our mandate with humility. Let's take to heart what Yeshua said to Simon Peter: "I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned [made "teshuva"] to Me, strengthen your brethren" (Luke 22:32 emphasis added).

THE WORKS OF YHVH

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February 29, 2008

Reading Psalm 145 one day was followed by more inquiries: “YHVH is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works. All Your works shall praise You, O YHVH, and Your righteous ones shall bless You. They shall speak of the glory of Your kingdom, and talk of Your power, to make known to the sons of men Your mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of Your kingdom. Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures throughout all generations” (verses 9-13).

The questions that initially flooded my mind were: "What, or who, are these works that YHVH has mercy over?" And, "Who are the righteous ones that will praise YHVH and speak of the glory of His Kingdom and power, making known to the sons of men His mighty acts and the majesty of this Kingdom?" Some of the answers to these questions began to surface as I read Isaiah 29: “Therefore, thus says YHVH, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob: ‘Jacob shall not now be ashamed, nor shall his face now grow pale; but when he sees his children, the work of My hands, in his midst, they will hallow My name, and hallow the Holy One of Jacob, and fear the Elohim of Israel. These also who erred in spirit will come to understanding, and those who complained will learn doctrine ‘" (verses 22-24, emphasis added).

Upon reading this text, I construed that the redeemed of Abraham and the children of Jacob are the works of YHVH’s hands. It is these children of Jacob who bear His Name and will bring a testimony of it, along with the glory of His Kingdom, to the sons of men. I kept asking: "But who are those ‘who err in spirit and who need to come to an understanding’ “? This too would be answered in due time, but the verse that stood out and gripped my attention was the one in the middle of Psalm 145: “Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures throughout all generations” (verse 13, emphasis added). If that were the case, then the disciples' question about restoring YHVH's kingdom to Israel was even more relevant. "How then was it in Israel in the generations past?" I continued to query. What had come to my mind as a response was the episode of Samuel's grievance to the Almighty, namely, that the people of Israel had not been heeding him. YHVH pointed out to the prophet that it was not him that they were rejecting, but rather, it was His rule as a king over them which they had been attempting to throw off. "And YHVH said to Samuel, 'Listen to the voice of the people in regard to all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me from being king over them'" (1 Samuel 8: 7).

That little four letter word - king – flashed at me like a neon light at midnight. Here was the answer to my question: YHVH’s rule as king over the house of Jacob was the evidence of the kingdom’s existence on earth. However, when the people chose a man to rule over them (like Saul, David and Solomon), they were in fact rejecting YHVH as king. Yet, much to my amazement, I discovered that David and Solomon are said to have actually sat on the throne of YHVH. "Then Solomon sat on the throne of YHVH as king instead of David his father; and he prospered, and all Israel obeyed him" (1 Chronicles 29:23).

Equipped with this information, my thought now turned back to the statement that I had read earlier about YHVH's Kingdom being in every generation. "Well, if His Kingdom has been in every generation, it must have been in the first one!", I concluded, and proceeded to turn the pages of the Bible back to the first chapter of the first book, asking the Holy One of Israel to teach me. That was the beginning of a path that I am still on today, even as I write these lines.

Thus, it is with fear and trembling that we are to respond to Yeshua’s exhortation, to “seek ye first the kingdom of YHVH Elohim and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.” Let us pray along with Paul the Apostle: “That the Elohim of our King and Messiah Yeshua, the Father of glory, may give unto us the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him: and that the eyes of our understanding may be enlightened; that we may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the holy ones, and the exceeding greatness of His power toward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power, which He wrought in Messiah, when He raised Him from the dead, and set Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 1:17-20 my alterations). Amen.

SEEKING FIRST YHVH'S KINGDOM

2008-05-16T16:13:00.003+03:00

Almost a decade had gone by, when in an early morning time of reading scriptures, (in the year 1994 to be precise), I became intrigued, like never before, by Acts 28. Paul was under house arrest in Rome for the "hope of Israel". He had called together the Jewish leaders and explained to them why he was there. These leaders had heard about this sec of Judaism that was "spoken against everywhere".

After listening to Paul, they set a day to have him clarify what this sect was all about. When the day arrived, Paul “solemnly testified of the kingdom of God [Elohim], persuading them concerning Jesus [Yeshua] from both the Law [Torah] of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening” (Acts 28:23). Upon reading this something leaped inside of me with a big, “WHAT? Paul was teaching the Kingdom of Elohim from the Torah and the Prophets?"

I had never once, in all my years, heard the Gospel of the Kingdom being presented from the Torah and the Prophets! “Where in the Torah is God/Elohim's Kingdom?” I prayed. I turned to my Heavenly Father and asked Him to show me. I left for work that morning in a state of absolute bewilderment. How was it possible that after 20 years of being a Believer and singing that song, “Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God,” I could still be so totally ignorant of something so important? I had read many times the parables of Jesus/Yeshua about the Kingdom of God/Elohim, but did not really understand what Yeshua and His apostles were actually teaching about the Kingdom from the Torah and the Prophets! Truly, I fit the shoes of those who have ears but do not hear and eyes but do not see!

In the following weeks, I started studying Scripture making special note of anything that spoke of, or referred to, Elohim's Kingdom. One morning I awoke with one of those Holy Spirit promptings to read the first chapter of Acts again. The setting was 40 days after Yeshua’s resurrection and He was on the Mount of Olives with His disciples. Scripture records that He had just spent all those days speaking to them about the Kingdom of Elohim. Then, just before He left this earth, the disciples asked Him a very candid question: “When are you going to restore the Kingdom to Israel?” In their hearts, they assumed that this was what He was going to do all along, but became terribly disappointed when the Romans crucified Him! All of their hopes died with Him.

However, to their amazement, He arose from the dead three days after He was put into the grave and rekindled His followers' hopes. That was the reason for the question: “When are you going to restore the Kingdom to Israel?”

What struck me about the disciples' query, regarding the restoration of the Kingdom to Israel, was the usage of the term “restore”. The very employment of that verb meant that the Kingdom had been in Israel sometime in the past, but where and when? How was it perceived? What did it look like? Why Israel?

The question about the "restoration" really stirred me, as in the past I had always assumed that the Kingdom would only be set up when Yeshua returned. The more I studied Yeshua’s answer to His disciples, the more my original thoughts on the matter changed. “It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father has put in His own authority. But you shall receive power, after that the Spirit of Holiness is come upon you: and you shall be my witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1: 7-8). What appeared to loom large about Yeshua's answer was his statement regarding witnesses. “Witness to what?” I asked. Was it to the restoration of the Kingdom to Israel? If that were the case, then I had a lot more questions to ask and to take more seriously Yeshua's exhortation to “seek first the kingdom of Elohim and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). Secondly, I needed to gain an understanding about the correlation of YHVH's Kingdom to the present restoration of the Nation of Israel.

Generally, most people are given to seeking first food, drink, clothes and shelter, which can all be summarized by one phrase, "the quest for provisions". And I am no different. However, Yeshua declares that this is something we are not to worry about, as our Heavenly Father already knows that we have these needs. Yeshua adds that we are not even to “take thought for tomorrow” (Matthew 6:34). In fact, He placed so much importance on seeking first the Kingdom of His Father, that He wanted His disciples' attention to be wholly focused on it. After all, this was one of the main reasons for His coming as a Prince and Redeemer. Luke 1:31-33: "And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Yeshua. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and YHVH Elohim will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end" (emphasis added).

Back on the Mount of Olives, Yeshua (answering His followers' question) tells them that they will receive power. Where will that power come from and for what purpose? The power would come with the Holy Spirit(ref. Acts 1:8). So what is Yeshua really implying here about the Kingdom? In the Epistle to the Romans (14:17), Paul the apostle, under the guidance of the same Spirit, says: “For the Kingdom of Elohim is not meat and drink; (repeating Yeshua's words) but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Spirit of Holiness” (emphasis added). Thus it appears that the Kingdom of Elohim comes with the Spirit of Holiness. Yeshua's wounds and His blood, shed for the forgiveness of sin, opened the way for the Spirit of Elohim to regain access to the heart of man.

So how is it that a person full of the Spirit of YHVH is to be a witness to the restoration of the Kingdom to Israel? By that time, had not most of the Israelites been scattered throughout the world for many a century and lost their identity, becoming what the prophet Hosea calls, “Not My People” (ref. Hosea 1:9)?

The only known Israelites in that day were the Judeans, made up of mostly Judah, Levi and Benjamin with a remnant of the other tribes, and their land was part of the Roman Empire. Could it be that when Yeshua had commissioned His disciples to go to "all the nations", He was sending them to the "lost sheep of the House of Israel"? Were they not the ones destined, through the New Covenant to receive the Spirit and thus testify to the restoration of the Kingdom to Israel (ref. Isaiah 44:3; Ezekiel 37:27)?

February 20, 2008

BACK TO THE SHEEP FOLD

2008-05-01T22:28:00.003+03:00

February 15, 2008

As some of you remember, several years ago I sent out, from time to time, personal testimonies that ultimately ended up in a book called, "Return to The Land". Now I have another series of articles that have accumulated over the years. The series starts with my testimony on how the Spirit brought me to my present understanding of YHVH's plan of redemption and the restoration of His kingdom to Israel. YHVH willing, I will be sending out chapters from this manuscript as part of Friday's communiqué.

Being a post-war baby growing up in the late 40’s and 50's, I was immersed in the professed freedom and religious tolerance of the American Dream. My family members were die-hards Lutherans, and consequently I became acquainted with a Lord and Savior whose first name I knew was “Jesus" and last name "Christ”. My parents prayed before every meal that Jesus would come and be our guest. Never seeing an extra plate on the table, I assumed that because he never showed up, they had stopped setting a place for him. Each Sunday, before going to church, I donned the expected starched white shirt and bow tie. The winter months produced even more suffering, as I was made to wear prickly, itchy woolen underwear. I construed that all this discomfort had to be undergone "for Christ's sake".

Graduating from high school, I attended a Lutheran college where Bible courses were rendered low on my priority list. In 1966, with a B.A degree in Biology, I enlisted in the Army. Thankfully, my tour of duty did not include Vietnam and by what I felt was a stroke of luck, I was stationed in California. It was there that I began to take an interest in popular Eastern philosophies such as Transcendental Meditation (TM), Yoga and the Great White Brotherhood (“White" indicating spiritual purity and not racial supremacy). I was hungry for righteousness and virtue, which I had not seen in the Church. Yet, life was confusing, at least partly due to the consumption of alcoholic beverages in my free time.

But even in this darkened state, some light began to filter into my muddled life. For some indefinable reason, I was being "tinkered with" by the God of the bible. Before long, I became a Spirit-filled believer, referred to at the time as a “charismatic". Scriptures came alive, and as I read through the pages of my Bible, it was milk to a thirsty soul, " as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby" (1 Peter 2:2 NKJ).

A song we sang and I strummed on my guitar at almost every meeting was “Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God [Elohim] and His Righteousness" (based on Matthew 6:33)” Although very meaningful at the time, its real significance and meaning was as far away from us as kindergarten games from university studies. It would take years before the Spirit of the Living God [Elohim] would begin to open my mind, through revelatory understanding, as to what was taught by those early apostles from the Torah of Moses, the writings and the Prophets.

In 1976, my new life in Messiah was further transformed when I went on a tour of Israel. A most compelling feeling of coming home greeted me, when I looked down at the shoreline of this land from the window of the 747 aircraft. Of course, a fuller meaning of this experience would also have to wait at the portal of my future life experiences.

One of those episodes met me in late 1982. While living with my new bride on a Kibbutz in the Upper Galilee and studying Hebrew, I was hit by a major revelation. The three-month Hebrew course was almost over, and we were reading the weekly Torah portion ("Parasha") one Friday morning. The section that I had been assigned happened to be Genesis 48:8-20. As I came to the part about Israel/Jacob pronouncing a blessing on the head of Ephraim, declaring that his seed would become the "m’lo ha-goyim" – the fullness of the nations (or "gentiles") - I was suddenly stopped in my tracks as revelation electrified me. After class I went back to my room and grabbed my Green’s Interlinear Hebrew-Greek Bible. I flung it open to the same text and read it again, this time in English. The question that popped into my mind, as I read about the “fullness of the Gentiles” was, “Is this the same fullness of Gentiles that Paul mentions in Romans 11:25?"

The answer came bursting into my bones like a bomb, “Yes, of course! Where do you think he got it from?!” I gasped for a breath of air and then burst into tears as the reality of the faithfulness of a covenant-keeping Elohim touched my Abrahamic soul. I now had the answer to why I, being of a Gentile family, felt at home in Israel and a close kinship to the Jewish people. The Apostle wrote: “For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: 'The Deliverer will come out of Zion, and He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob... ' " (Romans 11:25-26 NKJ). With that a string of questions began to array themselves in my mind: Why Jacob? What does “all Israel” have to do with the “fullness of the Gentiles” coming in? Coming into what?

During the following months of rereading the Tanach (Old Testament), especially the Torah, I began to see that there were two houses in Israel, as stated in Isaiah 8:14 (NKJ): “And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel.” The most obvious reference to the "two sticks" or nations (goyim) is found in Ezekiel: "As for you, son of man, take a stick/tree for yourself and write on it: 'For Judah and for the children of Israel, his companions.' Then take another stick and write on it, 'For Joseph, the stick of Ephraim, and for all the house of Israel, his companions' "(Ezekiel 37:16 NKJ). I started discovering many more scriptures that spoke about Judah and Joseph/Ephraim and my heart was set ablaze. Suddenly I realized that much of scripture addressed "two families", "two sticks/trees", and "two houses", with a distinct destiny for each one of the two. I felt that the true believers needed to hear this gospel message. But did I have a surprise coming…!

In the summer of 1983, my wife and I left the Kibbutz, feeling we were to spread this good news to the lost Israelites who were now 'found' in the form of this 'New Covenant people', the people who had the same faith as their father Abraham. "Therefore it is of faith that it might be according to grace, so that the promise might be sure to all the seed/sperm [of Abraham], not only to those who are of the law, but also to those who are of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all" (Romans 4:16 NKJ). The mystery of the life of a forefather in his progeny is beyond our comprehension, but when given certain birthmarks one can see the reality of that fact.

Little did I know that the Church, along with Messianic Jews, was not interested even as much as lending an ear to such an uncommon idea. All the same, I went ahead and pursued what was burning in my very bones, assembling as many scriptures as I could find that spoke of this mystery. From September 1983 until March of 1984, while living in the new settlement of Ma'ale Adumim, east of Jerusalem, I worked on this undertaking.[1] Regrettably, no one wanted to publish my finished manuscript. It was at that time that the Father brought into our lives Angus and Batya Wootten, who shared the same revelation, and had been teaching it for several years. Finding them was an answer to prayer, as we were quite alone with this insight, so we thought.

After several years of sharing what we understood to be the “Two House" teaching, that is the House of Israel/Ephraim and the House of Judah, I turned one day to the Father in prayer. I did not want to 'camp' on just this revelation alone, but rather to seek further understanding of YHVH's plan of redemption and the role that Israel was to play in it.

Ephraim

[1] Posted on http://thussayseloheyisrael.blogspot.com/

ISAAC IS A MULTITUDE

2008-01-08T13:57:00.001+02:00

January 4, 2008

Starting the Friday letter almost a week ahead of time is very unusual for me. But at the beginning of this last week I received a letter that blessed me to tears, and has elicited a response from me that led to the thoughts expressed here. A close friend and brother (Messianic Jew) for almost 30 years now, who has a great deal of problem with the Two House movement and some of the ideas and doctrines which have come forth thereby, wrote the following: Ephraim- thanks, that does make it clearer. We do not agree on this, but I do believe that we have more in common than not- thus we are brothers, and I hope friends, and that forever, if I understand Heaven correctly...

We, this brother and I, have dialoged, argued and spared over scriptures and our respective interpretations for a great number of years. It is good to do these things with one another, as long as it gets one to dig deeper into the scriptures and ask the Spirit to teach and guide into all truth, always being open to learn "present truth" and not just chewing on yesterday's stale manna. Paul wrote at one point about boxing: "Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air" (1 Corinthians 9:26).

The last discussion this brother and I were having centered around Romans 4:16, "For this reason it is by faith, that it might be in accordance with grace, in order that the promise may be certain to all the seed, not only to those who are of the Law, but also to those who are of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all.." Eventually the issue that Paul presents here boils down to one word - "seed" (or "descendants") - "sperma" in Greek. The question then is: Is the seed referred to here a natural or a spiritual one? We, my friend and I, agreed that all those who are of the Law, that is the Jews, are of the natural seed. But we differed when it came to those "who are of the faith of Abraham". In contrast to this brother, in my way of thinking what came out of the same forefather and is described by one and the same word has to be perceived in the same way - that is a seed is a seed, is a seed.

According to my friend, who espouses the common church doctrine, only the Jews are the natural seed and the faith people are the spiritual seed, or foreign seed, that is grafted in. Thus, the non physical descendents of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob fulfill the promise of a multitude of nations that was supposed to come forth out of those forefathers (but in accordance with this understanding, didn't). If this is true, then I must conclude that Abraham had two seeds, one spiritual and one natural. Having a farming background and being a Botany Major I know that if one takes wheat seed and sows it into a field, at harvest time one would expect to reap wheat.

The reason I am bringing up this subject is because of a war that is already in progress. Islam knows that if it can overpower Judea and Samaria along with the heart of Jerusalem, the rest of the world will fall under its dominion. The Muslims have openly stated that the Jews are not their problem; they can eliminate them through the "peace process", but the ones that they are afraid of are the Evangelical bible believers, that is, "the faith people". The spiritual enemies know that if they can keep the believers from the truth of the Torah and the Prophets, they will not only defeat the Jews but also the people of the faith.

I believe that YHVH is faithful to His word and to the covenants and promises. If YHVH succeeded in multiplying the seed of the forefathers into what is a multitude of nations today, then this is proof that He is the Elohim of those forefathers. If not, then YHVH had not kept covenant or His word, but actually chose another way of accomplishing His promises, and that is through a spiritual seed (the Church). This deceptive interpretation had its beginning with Constantine and his universal gospel, and resulted in replacement theology. Because of this mainstream idea, much of the Church is disconnected from the land of Israel and does not care if the Jews maintain control of it or not. The Church's support, therefore, of the "peace process" is only natural. As far as they are concerned, Islam can have the land. But if these "faith people" only knew that they are truly the natural brothers of the Jews, they would be standing alongside them ready to give their lives for Zion's sake! Alas, according to this "spiritual" theology it is only heaven that counts...

I believe and strongly support the natural, but also the super-natural intervention in the dead loins of Abraham and the dead womb of Sarah. "And without becoming weak in faith he contemplated his own body, now as good as dead since he was about a hundred years old, and the deadness of Sarah's womb" (ve. 19). Isaac, who was conceived by divine intervention in a dead womb, is the one whom Paul was referring when he wrote: "Elohim, who gives life to the dead and calls into being that which does not exist…" (ve. 17). The birth of Isaac was a testimony of "the faith" of Abraham who: "In hope against hope he believed, in order that he might become a father of many nations, according to that which had been spoken, "So shall your descendants/seed be" (ve. 18). Abraham and Sarah laughed when YHVH told them what His intentions were.

YHVH was not looking to the womb of a virgin when He made these promises to Abraham and Sarah. Paul states very clearly: "For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, in Isaac shall your seed be called. That is, they which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of Elohim: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. For this is the word of promise, at this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son" (Romans 9:6-9). Yes, Sarah shall have a son! Isaac is the undisputed "son of promise" through whom was to come a multitude of nations - "ethnos" - also translated "gentiles, heathens" etc. depending on how one wants to interpret that Greek word.

YHVH was very particular when demonstrating His faithfulness in keeping covenants and promises. Thus it was from Sarah's womb that the promised son came and inherited the blessings, birthrights and promises. Isaac, then, would have had to be the father of the "many nations". Since Isaac had two children, Elohim had to separate them and choose only one who would continue the line of the "fathers", the one who would inherit the promise to become a multitude of nations. "And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; For the children [Esau and Jacob] being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of Elohim according to election might stand, not of works, but of Him that calls" (Romans 9: 10-11). Because of election, Jacob and his sons are now the "only" ones who qualify to inherit the promises. This is not by the will of man, but of Elohim. The question still stands: Are these people of "the faith" from the "natural seed" or from a "spiritual" one?

Ephraim

ISLAM'S SWORD

2007-12-28T14:02:00.001+02:00

December 28, 2007

Yesterday before going over to our neighbors for our regular Thursday prayer/praise/fellowship time, Rimona's eyes fell on a newspaper (which we rarely buy or read) that happened to be lying on our dinning room table. What stood out were all the horrible things that are beleaguering our country; Old ladies beaten (some robbed) by individuals and small bands of youth and even adults; a sex festival that is in the making in Tel Aviv (not to mention the "love" and gay parades that have already established themselves as part of that city's "cultural" scene). In addition to the above were the tabloids about corruption in high places, which have become our "daily bread". And the list does not end there.

Habakkuk 1:5 says, "Look among the nations! Observe! Be astonished! Wonder! Because I am doing something in your days-- You would not believe if you were told". How true! Some of the things that are happening on this planet, in our day and age, we would not believe even if we were told. But in order not to take this scripture out of its context, let us take a look at the very precise description, depicted in the previous verses, and compare it to the current situation in Israel and in other countries too: " Why do You [YHVH] make me see iniquity, and cause me to look on wickedness [even if it is in the newspaper and television]? Yes, destruction and violence are before me; strife exists and contention arises [even in the body of Messiah]. Therefore, the law [Torah] is ignored and justice is never upheld. For the wicked surround the righteous; Therefore, justice comes out perverted (Habakkuk 1:3-4). The Hebrew verb for "surround" is "katar" and shares its root with the word for crown, "keter". In other words, what this is implying is that the wicked do not only "surround" the righteous, but they also rule over them. This expresses perfectly our situation today in the nation of Israel, and the so called Christian nations as well.

Secular humanism, along with its self-righteous religions, is leading the people into the valley of YHVH's righteous judgments (ref. Joel 3: 12). But what shocked the prophet Habakkuk was that YHVH decided to grant favor to one of the fiercest people of his day and raise them up to judge His people: "For behold, I am raising up the Chaldeans, [whose land was in what is today's heartland of Islam] that fierce and impetuous people who march throughout the earth [they are the hunters and fishermen of Hab. 1: 14-17 that YHVH has raised up, favored, and sent into the nations] to seize dwelling places which are not theirs [also the Palestinians' claim on the Land of Israel]. They are dreaded and feared [terrorism]. Their justice and authority originate with themselves [Muslim self-righteousness is second to none]. Their horses are swifter than leopards and keener than wolves in the evening. Their horsemen come galloping, their horsemen come from afar; they fly like an eagle swooping down to devour. All of them come for violence [Hamas]. Their horde of faces moves forward. They collect captives like sand. They mock at kings, and rulers are a laughing matter to them [mockery is a very prevalent attitude that we have all witnessed in Osama Bin Laden, Mahmoud Ahamadinejad, Saddam Hussein, Nasralla the Hezbollah leader, etc, a trait inherited from Ishmael, Esau, Amalek etc.]. They laugh at every fortress, and heap up rubble to capture" (Habakkuk 1:6-10).

They would not be able to do this had YHVH not given them favor, and this is the point of the prophet's dilemma. How could the Elohim of Israel sanction such a people to carry out His judgments? This is what perplexes the mind of the believers today and what constitutes "not believing this even though you were told". Islam's sword is aimed at the heart of the people of Israel, both the saved and unsaved in Ephraim and Judah. YHVH is using them to bring His people to repentance and return to Torah (His instructions), commandments, the gospel, and the land. The Church's gospel of "we are not under the law" has turned it into a lawlessness entity along with the nations it is established in. There is blindness to YHVH's righteous judgments. The fact that church buildings are being turned into occult centers and mosques, as we witnessed with our own eyes in England and Scotland and on American Christian TV, is not even noticed.

Back to Habakkuk, who took his post as a guard and stationed himself on the ramparts to watch and listen to what YHVH would speak to him, and to consider how to reply to His indignation. And so the prophet heard: "Record the vision and inscribe it on tablets that the one who reads it may run. For the vision is yet for the appointed time; it hastens toward the goal, and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay" (Habakkuk 2:2-3).

YHVH's purpose for Islam has been in the making and will come to its ultimate conclusion. It is as sure as are His words, quoted above. The 'how', 'when' and 'where' are in His hands, but Habakkuk's prophecy does not end with the successes of YHVH's accomplices. For when He finishes using them, just as He did other nations in the past, to accomplish His plans for Israel this is what He says: "Because you have looted many nations, all the remainder of the peoples will loot you-- Because of human bloodshed and violence done to the land, to the town and all its inhabitants. Woe to him who gets evil gain for his house to put his nest on high to be delivered from the hand of calamity! You have devised a shameful thing for your house by cutting off many peoples; so you are sinning against yourself" (Habakkuk 2: 8-10). This is followed by a series of "woes" upon the enemy, but what about us, who are witnessing all of this? Are we on the watchtowers and the ramparts? For this prophecy ends in a very solemn but positive note: "I heard and my inward parts trembled, at the sound my lips quivered. Decay enters my bones, and in my place I tremble. Because I must wait quietly for the day of distress, for the people to arise who will invade us. [And here comes the leap of faith:] Though the fig tree should not blossom, and there be no fruit on the vines, though the yield of the olive should fail, and the fields produce no food, though the flock should be cut off from the fold, and there be no cattle in the stalls, yet I will exult in YHVH, I will rejoice in the Elohim of my salvation. YHVH Elohim is my strength, and He has made my feet like hinds' feet, and makes me walk on my high places" (Habakkuk 3: 16-19 emphases added).

Are we aware of, and prepared for what is coming?

Ephraim

LAW OF SIN

2007-12-28T14:00:00.001+02:00

December 21, 2007

First of all I must apologize for an assumption that I made in last week's letter. I was quoting from Romans chapter 6, where Paul says that "we are no longer under the law". My comment was that "indeed we are not under law but that the law is under us". However, after checking the context in which the Apostle was using the word "law" – "nomos" in Greek - I discovered that he was speaking there very specifically of the "law of sin and death": "For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law [of sin] but under grace" (Romans 6:14). Seeing that it is the "law of sin and death" that he was talking about in that passage, not only are we not "under it", but it cannot and should not be our foundation either, as I had incorrectly written. Instead we are under the law of grace in Messiah Yeshua. His righteousness has dominion in our life, as we walk by faith in what our Heavenly Father had accomplished judicially through the death, burial and resurrection of His Son. The writings of the apostles, at least in the form in which they have been handed down to us, only use this one Greek word to describe commandments, laws and Torah. In the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Tanach which preceded the writing of the New Covenant books) Torah is translated "nomos" – law, a fact which became the precedence to perceiving the meaning of the Hebrew word, "Torah", as strictly law. However, the Septuagint, unlike the writers of the New Covenant books, does distinguish between "laws", "ordinances", "commandments" etc.; for example the Ten Commandments are translated as the "Ten Words" which is the literal translation of the Hebrew.

Paul's main concern was that we understand that man is either under the rule or dominion of Sin, which is lawlessness and its consequences, that is the curses; or the dominion of Righteousness, which is the obedience of faith leading to the laws of blessings. In other words, there are two spiritual kingdoms that man is subject to. If we have received by faith the truth of the Gospel and continue to live accordingly, we will be living under the law of life in Messiah, that is, by the instructions (Torah) of the Word of Elohim from Genesis to Revelation. The Word of YHVH governs His Kingdom, thus we must get to know every statute, ordinance, commandment and law that is apropos to His rule.

Paul mentions two laws that are working in him as a Believer: "I find then a law [of Sin and death], that evil [power of Sin] is present within me, the one who wills to do good. For I delight in the law [Torah/Word] of Elohim according to the inward man. But I see another law [of Sin] in my members, warring against the law [instructions of Righteousness] of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? I thank Elohim -- through Yeshua the Messiah our ruler! So then, with the mind I myself serve the law [Torah-instructions] of Elohim, but with the flesh the law of sin" (Romans 7: 21-25).

After this, comes the grand finale of Paul's dissertation about the reality of a Believer's life of faith in the law of grace: "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Messiah Yeshua, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit" (Romans 8:1 NKJV). In this particular translation "no condemnation" is conditional. If we walk according to the flesh then we are under the laws of sin and its verdict is condemnation. But if we walk according to the Spirit that is, by faith believing what is true about ourselves in Messiah Yeshua, and draw our life/nature from His Righteousness (fruit of the Spirit), then "the righteous requirement of the law [Torah/His instructions] might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit" (Romans 8:4).

The Apostle is always making a reference to a war that is waging inside of us. He explains that the nature of Sin lusts for the power to rule, especially over us who are governed by the Spirit. It wants to use us in order to express its nature through our flesh and thus to set up its kingdom. We have therefore been given spiritual armor for protection. This armor is the life of Yeshua. He is the Truth around our waist/loins, He is our breastplate of Righteousness, He is our Peace that we walk in, He is our shield of Faith, our helmet of Salvation and He is the Word of Elohim, our sword (ref. Ephesians 6: 14-17). Hence the Word instructs us not to obey the lusts of the flesh but to present our members as (literally) weapons of righteousness to Elohim (Romans 6: 12-13).

Many people are looking for, or are predicting war in the Middle East. My beloved brothers and sisters, we are already at war and the whole creation is groaning in waiting for a body of Believers that will emerge victoriously from this battle and set the creation free. Let us run the race and exercise our weapons of righteousness, so that we will be fit when YHVH gathers us together as a mighty army (ref. Ezekiel 37: 10).

Ephraim

THE COMMANDMENTS

2007-12-28T13:54:00.001+02:00

December 14, 2007

"This is My commandment that you love one another" (John 15:12). Is this commandment, given by Yeshua, "law"? Summing up all the commandments into two He declared: "You shall love YHVH your Elohim with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these" (Mark 12: 30-31). If these commandments are "law", then we cannot just nonchalantly toss away any of the commandments given to us, with the excuse that "we are not under law". As mentioned in previous letters, I do agree that "we are not under law"; but rather that the law should be "under us". It needs to be a foundation of our walk in the Spirit of life and liberty in Messiah Yeshua. The commandments were all given by the Word of Elohim, and that Word is the same yesterday, today and forever. Nevertheless, as "new creation beings" in YHVH's Son, we must understand these commandments in a new light.

Some of the religious leaders of Yeshua's day, and ours too, disregarded the commandments, laying them aside for the sake of their traditions (see Mark 7: 8-9). Yeshua pointed these clerics directly to the problem that beset them. He exposed the nature of Sin that was resident in the innermost part of man's being: "For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed the evil thoughts, fornications, thefts, murders, adulteries, deeds of coveting and wickedness, as well as deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride and foolishness" (Mark 7:21-22). Because Sin became the very spiritual nature of man, its power and influence was being expressed through human experience. There was no possible way that any person could live outside of Sin's realm of control. Paul the Apostle admitted that when he wanted to carry out "the good", he found another law working in his members and was actually unable to do "this good" that he desired. This law he called the "Law of Sin". However, when he had accepted through "the faith" Elohim's answer to man's bondage to Sin, he believed that it was no longer himself that was committing Sin, but the influence of the Power of Sin that was still working in his soul (Romans 7:17).

Paul believed that he had died, along with all humanity, when Yeshua died. His identity with Yeshua's death was not an excuse to continue allowing Sin to rule his being. On the contrary, Yeshua's death and resurrection granted him the mandate to overcome Sin. However, he would not have been able to discern Sin had YHVH not given the commandments/law.

Paul wrote that when, for example, the commandment/law "you shall not covet" was decreed he recognized all manner of covetousness operative within him. However, Paul does not blame the law of commandments for his problem; He actually acknowledges its importance in the life of the Believer. Had it not been for the law, he would have continued to be a victim of Sin, being deceived by the powers of darkness. But when the light/glory of the commandment, or law, came he recognized the fact that covetousness was not part of his new nature in Messiah. Paul was using the commandments as a tool to discern the nature of Sin that was still at work in his members. This, obviously, was not a one time effort but an every day walkout, in order to overcome the Power of Sin. Through this understanding of the function of the commandments, he was actually keeping them, as in this way the Nature of Sin was being exposed. Thus, Paul found himself identifying with YHVH's righteousness in and through Messiah Yeshua.

In Paul's letter to the Believers in Rome, especially in Chapter Seven, he explains his view of the commandments of Elohim and their relationship to Sin. He recognized that the commandments of Elohim were given to reveal the power and influence of another spiritual nature whose fruit was producing "death". To the Apostle, the commandments were spiritual and good for he would not have known Sin without them. The same is true for us. The commandments are always before us to lead us to repentance and to YHVH's provision of "grace" through His Son. As long as Sin is still at work within us, we need the commandments; not to try and do them for the purpose of righteousness, but to keep us mindful and discerning as to what Sin looks like.

Ephraim

GLORIFING HIM

2007-12-28T13:51:00.002+02:00

December 7, 2007

The trip to England was like riding on the wings of an eagle. It was "blessed beyond blessed" from the time I left home until I saw the smiling faces of my family members greeting me at the airport, upon my return at 01:00 AM; Each stop along the journey was an oasis of His love, encouragement and anointing. Even though many of our brothers and sisters are experiencing troublesome times, His message to all of us was very simple and foundational. The Spirit was pointing us back to our first love, to the faith and to remembering what the Father had accomplished for us through His only begotten Son while we were yet sinners, an accomplishment that was the ultimate demonstration of His love, power and wisdom (ref. 1 Corinthians 1:24).

It was interesting that most of us were veteran believers, but in order to bring us into a deeper and more intimate relationship with Him, the Almighty had to shake our comfort zones, lifestyles, ministries and relationships. And while so doing, He also reminded us of the truth about ourselves vis-à-vis the New Covenant. What YHVH was imparting to us centered round the execution tree, that is the altar and sacrifice (Yeshua) that He had used as a means to forgive and reconcile us unto Himself.

We had to conclude that it is of utmost necessity that we hold on, and cling to what is true about ourselves, all of which may be summed up in the fact that we are dead, but that our life is hidden in Messiah in Elohim. Indeed, Messiah's presence in us constitutes our life and nature and hence the soul must come into union and merge with Him, so that the Father can glorify His Son. Yeshua prayed in John 17 that as He glorified the Father, the Father would also glorify Him. This, then, is the reason that the Father has placed the life of His Son in us, so that through us He would fulfill this goal.

Our circumstances, therefore, become opportunities to glorify Yeshua's indwelling presence. This is brought about by yielding to His nature (the fruit of the Spirit). In this way His life is glorified by us and in us, especially so in our relationships with others, as Yeshua's glory is seen in our love for one another. Yeshua prayed: "And the glory which you Father have given Me I have given to them; that they may be one, just as We are one" (John 17: 22). We must believe what is true about our death and no longer look at ourselves, or others, after the flesh because when Yeshua died "all men died. Therefore from now on we recognize no man according to the flesh… if any man is in Messiah, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come" (2 Corinthians 5: 15-17).

Many have been set free by believing and understanding this reality. Others are still in a battle with spirits of unbelief and doubt as to whether this is true or not. But when we walk in His indwelling presence we bring glory to the Almighty and to His Son. This is not an easy row to hoe, as we have plenty of resistance from the power of sin, which is the nature of darkness that wants us to be channels of its unloving character.

Let us make this season of dedication a time of remembering, recognizing, repenting and cleansing ourselves (temples of His Spirit) "from all filthiness of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of Elohim" (2 Corinthians 7:1).

May Yeshua be the light of His Father's glory in your holy place!

Ephraim

HEIR OF THE KOSMOS (world)

2007-12-28T13:48:00.001+02:00

Many people today are dabbling in real estate in order to earn a little extra money on the side. Well, wouldn't you know it? YHVH is into that business too! First He is seen creating the property that He will own and then He takes possession over all of it. Psalm 24:1 states: "The earth is YHVH’s, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein”. In Psalm 89:11 we read: "The heavens are Yours, the earth also is Yours; the world and all its fullness, You have founded them”. And 1st Corinthians 10:26 reiterates Psalm 89:1by quoting: "The earth is the Lord's and all its fullness."

These scriptures attest to the fact that YHVH has never lost the title deed of ownership of the earth to any devil. However, He shared His dominion with mankind. "Then Elohim said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth’" (Gen. 1:26). In this short statement YHVH was setting up His kingdom on earth, and man (male and female in this context) was to be in charge of overseeing, ruling or subduing all living things.

Subduing does not mean exploiting, but actually just the opposite. It stands for imparting life and light to the living creatures. Yet at first nothing was said about property rights. It was only until after the nations (goyim) were divided up that this issue came to the fore. Thus we read in Genesis 10:32: "These were the families of the sons of Noah, according to their generations, in their nations; and from these the nations were divided on the earth after the flood" (emphasis added). Genesis 10:25 says: "To Eber were born two sons: the name of one was Peleg, for in his days the earth was divided" (emphasis added). And, "When the Most High divided their inheritance to the nations, when He separated the sons of Adam, He set the boundaries of the peoples according to the number of the children of Israel" (Deut. 32:8). Now, why would Elohim set the boundaries of the peoples according to the number of the Children of Israel, when Israel was not even around at the time of Peleg? Peleg was the son of Eber, or Ever in Hebrew, whose name is forever stamped upon the Israelites – Hebrews - and is one of the forefathers of Abraham. And so, in this short statement from Deuteronomy 32, we see YHVH establishing His "kingdom order" in the family of Noah.

As we follow YHVH's plan, we see Him implementing it right from the start by putting it in order, as is seen later in the covenant that He was to make with Abraham the father of Israel: "Lift your eyes now and look from the place where you are--northward, southward, eastward, and westward; for all the land [eretz] which you see I will give to you and your descendants forever. I will make your descendants as the dust of the earth [eretz]; so that if a man could number the dust of the earth [eretz], then your descendants also could be numbered. Arise, walk on the land [eretz] through its length and its width, for I give it to you" (Gen.13:14-17). Abraham could not take possession of the inheritance until he made his presence in the place. This is somewhat like the old Turkish (Ottoman) law that determines that ground could be claimed by planting or building on it. The life of Abraham was destined to be scattered "like dust" all over the earth. Could this be how Abraham was to become, as Romans 4:13 terms it, "heir of the kosmos" - fixed order of YHVH's government? However, it is not only given to those who are of the law but also to those "who are of the faith of Abraham who is the father of us all" (Rom. 4:16).

Abram was living somewhere between Ai and Bethel when YHVH uttered the above-quoted promise (Deut. 13:14-17). I would like to take the liberty to expand on the meaning of this blessing based on its context: "Arise walk in the earth through its length and its breath and I will give it to you". The Hebrew word "eretz" can be translated earth, land, field or ground but it actually comes from a root meaning to "be firm”. Thus a translator may use any of these English words at their discretion according to the context. My understanding of the context, in light of the massive blessing of multiplicity, is that the seed would be as the dust of the earth (eretz), and dust as we know usually covers everything. I believe that YHVH did not limit this blessing to Abraham only and to a specific land (Canaan), but also to his seed and to the entire earth (incidentally, notice the similarity: “earth” – “eretz”). His intent was to sow the seed into all the earth (eretz), thus perpetuating the blessing that He made with Adam and Noah to “fill the earth and rule over [subdue] it".

Later on in the life of Abraham, YHVH says to him that his seed would be like the stars of heaven (ref. Gen.15:5). This is again a numerical reference, but moreover, also to that of position as the stars, along with the moon, were to rule and to be for signs and for seasons.

Abraham, now in the 'form' of his own multiplied seed, was also told that 'he' would be a nation (goy) and that this goy would be a goy of princes and priests: “And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel…” (Exodus 19:6). And, "YHVH will make you the head and not the tail; you shall be above only, and not be beneath” (Deut. 8:13). The irrevocable destiny of the life of the forefathers was to have dominion, to subdue and rule this planet earth.

The Patriarchs are very much alive today in their progeny, whether their children know it or not, for did YHVH not say that He is the "Elohim of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the Elohim of the living?" (Mat. 22:32)? This is why our eyes must be open to present truth, or reality.

YHVH is a covenant keeping Elohim, and we in this generation are the witnesses to that faithfulness, loving-kindness and mercy. That being so not just by what we say, but more so by who we are. Worshiping in spirit and in truth is being who YHVH has created us to be, and at the same time also recognizing this incredible living truth – that we are "the workmanship of YHVH". “But when he [Jacob] sees his children, the work of My hands, in his midst, they will sanctify My name, hallowing the Holy One of Jacob, and fearing the Elohim of Israel” (Is. 29:22-24 emphasis added). We are His living stones, hewn from the rock who is "Abraham our father and Sarah who gave birth to us in pain" (Is. 51:2). "For He spoke and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast. The counsel of YHVH stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations… Blessed is the nation whose Elohim is YHVH, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance" (Ps. 33:9, 11-12). "Because YHVH loves you, and because He would keep the oath which He swore to your fathers, YHVH has brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you from the house of bondage” (Deut.7:8). Why did YHVH do all that? So that we (Israel) might be filled with His Spirit, and be that channel of His life and light to the earth.

"Let Your mercy, O YHVH, be upon us, just as we have waited upon You" (Ps. 33:22). "For those who wait on YHVH, they shall inherit the earth" (Ps. 37:9, ref. also v. 34).

Ephraim

SAVIOR - REDEEMER

2007-12-28T13:44:00.001+02:00

November 3, 2007

This time let's take a look at two of Yeshua's roles, namely that of Savior/Deliverer, and Redeemer. Yeshua's name comes from the Hebrew root y.sh.a, meaning "to deliver" or "save". In Scripture this term is mainly used in the context of deliverance, that is, removal from certain bondage situations, or extracting from various predicaments. As important as salvation is, it is not as comprehensive as redemption. The judges of Israel are a case in point. YHVH did not require that the ones He chose as judges/deliverers have specific and fixed qualifications, as would redeemers. Often upon completion of a given task or assignment, the savior or deliverer would retire. The deliverer had a job to fulfill, and hence many of the kings in Israel acted as saviors or deliverers when an enemy was oppressing the nation, or even individuals. In contrast, a redeemer's office is for a lifetime. Moses, for example, was called to be a savior, yet, typically, was not appointed to the office of a priest. That role was reserved for the firstborn of the family, Aaron.

Originally a first-born redeemer had priestly responsibilities, aside from being his kinsmen's deliverer and looking after the interests of the family at all times. Abraham, for example, being a firstborn and redeemer took Lot under His wing because his nephew was too young to take responsibility for his deceased father's inheritance. In time, Abraham did hand the inheritance over to his nephew, along with prime real estate. However, at one point Abraham had also to "save" Lot and his family and their belongings. In the wake of the war that broke out when the king of Sodom was taken captive, along with Lot and family, Abraham got involved because he was a responsible first-born redeemer, fulfilling his role as a savior. In the eyes of YHVH this was one of the qualifying traits that led to the Malchizedec blessing being bestowed upon him. Had he not been his brother's keeper, YHVH would have rejected Abraham and would have chosen another from Terah's family. In Genesis this pattern comes up over and over again. This is one of the reasons why Elohim required of Cain an answer regarding his brother's whereabouts. Doubtless, as a firstborn Cain knew that he was his brother's keeper, and thus his cynical response gave him away.

In order for Yeshua to be Israel's Redeemer he too had to qualify, by being a firstborn prince, faithful and obedient to the will of His Father in all matters "even unto death", because giving up one's life for a brother is a major qualifying mark of a redeemer. Another example of this was seen in the family of Jacob; When Reuben was to take Benjamin with the other brothers down to Egypt, he offered the life of his two sons if he were to fail to bring Benjamin back safely. This, however, did not satisfy Jacob and for this, and other reasons, Reuben lost his firstborn position and rights as leader of the family. The one who earned this role was Judah, who had learned from His daughter-in-law the righteousness of keeping YHVH's laws that govern a redeemer's office, which in that case was to restore life from the dead (in lieu of Judah's dead sons). When Judah expressed willingness to put his own life on the line for Benjamin, he qualified for the position which his father saw fit to grant him.

In our day the concept of a redeemer in the family is all but lost, hence we have been blinded to the importance of YHVH's plan to restore the creation through a redeemer nation: "For the earnest expectation of the creation waits for the revealing of the sons of Elohim" (Romans 8:19).

Adam/Man was given an inheritance that is waiting to be redeemed by a chosen firstborn in the family. Yeshua obviously did not set the creation free, as it was His responsibility to redeem His Father's inheritance. But who is going to redeem Man's inheritance? (ref. Gen. 1:26). In order to answer that question, we need to become aware of the plan of redemption and the importance of bringing together the two trees/sticks of Judah and Joseph/Ephraim. The church at large has only been interested in and occupied by a "Savior", but knows little about Yeshua as a Redeemer. To be saved and go to heaven is basically the vision that has been handed to those who believe. But when we understand YHVH's divine order in humanity, we will not be so interested in the "saving" of our own necks from the wrath of Elohim, but we will enter into the "love of Elohim", taking His viewpoint on the restoration of all things that are spoken through the mouths of His holy prophets from of old.

Ephraim

DISCIPLES

2007-10-19T17:35:00.002+02:00

October 19, 2007

Recently the topic of "disciples" has come up in conversation, and so I decided to pursue it further and take a deeper look at this subject, as in the past I have had some problems identifying myself as a "disciple" of Yeshua. In the church system I used to hear the scripture "go into all the world and make disciples…", but it appeared that these disciples were to be after the denomination that they were trained in. Since that is obviously not what Yeshua meant, I had to ask, "What is it to be a disciple of Yeshua?"

When I was involved in the occult, I heard the term "disciples" in connection with the "great Christ light", since Jesus was seen as one of the great masters and teachers of the "way". He was likened to Buddha, Krishna, Moses and Mohamed, who were all "way showers" to "God" and to goodness, righteousness and holiness. However, once my eyes were opened to the gospel of the Kingdom, Yeshua the Messiah and the New Covenant writings of the apostles, I realized that Yeshua was not a "way shower", but The Way, The Truth and The Light. So how is it that we can become disciples, since we cannot be disciples in the way that other adherents attend to their masters? In fact Yeshua says that it is virtually impossible. Here is how Yeshua describes His followers: "If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple". "So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsakes not all that he has, he cannot be my disciple" (Luke 14, 26; 33). Not only is this a very radical approach, it actually sounds somewhat contradictory to what Yeshua says elsewhere about loving others, and especially the commandment to honor parents.

Yeshua knew who He was and where He had come from, and that no one could follow Him nor become like Him. If this were a possibility then Yeshua would not have needed to come as Savior, Deliverer and Redeemer. And what's more, what Satan had said to Eve in the garden, "you can become like Elohim", would have been true. No one can become like Elohim by being a follower of the Messiah. However, the Father has provided another way, and that is to die and be born again. In doing so we receive His likeness through being born of His Spirit, by faith in what He has given to us through His Son. We cry out "Abba", and that one word tells us who and whose we are, a fact which also points to the nature that we are born of. Thus, even though we still struggle with the power of sin that is at work in us, the fundamental reality is that we are a new creation life inhabiting earth suits.

So how can we become what we already are constituted as? It must be a case of simply maturing. How is it that we mature? Actually it is very similar to what takes place in our natural life. We eat, drink and are also nurtured by others. The apostle writes: "I planted, Apollos watered, but Elohim was causing the growth. So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but Elohim who causes the growth" (1 Corinthians 3:6-7).

If we try to follow Yeshua by our natural feelings and inclinations, we will find ourselves in the same boat as His disciples. Peter, for example, was very bold and declared that he was willing to lay down his life for his Master. However, Yeshua knew Peter's strengths and weaknesses as a human being and thus answered him: "Before the cock crows you will deny me three times". The twelve men who followed their Master were kept as His disciples by the power of His Heavenly Father, and not by any will power or natural inclination. Didn't Yeshua have hundreds of disciples at one point? But it took only a word to expose their true motives, after which they all left Him. "Unless you eat my body and drink my blood…" was the most repulsive idea imaginable to His fellow Jews.

One of the basic tenants of the gospel is: "I have died and it is no longer I that live, but Messiah who lives in me". The nature of Yeshua's life is the same as His Father's. And, believe it or not, so is ours in spite of the residue of sin that still works in our members. But as we mature in our true nature and life in the Spirit of Holiness, we become examples to others just as the apostle wrote: "For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you" (2 Thessalonians 3:7). "And yet for this reason I found mercy, in order that in me as the foremost, Yeshua the Messiah might demonstrate His perfect patience, as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. (1 Timothy 1:16). Here we have the secret of making a disciple. We become examples or witnesses to others of the indwelling life of the Messiah, making us one another's disciples.

Ephraim

YOU ARE STANDING

2007-09-09T16:19:00.001+03:00

September 7, 2007

In this week’s Torah reading of NITZAVIM (Deut. 29:10 – 30:20) we find the chosen people standing before YHVH. They have just received another covenant (Deut 29: 1) and awesome commands which enumerated the consequences of obedience and disobedience (the blessings and the curses). But were they ready for the final oath that would catapult them into something so fearful, yet so promising as this covenant with the Elohim of their fathers? The conditions were clear, and so was their inherent weakness (which would make meeting the requirements almost impossible).

How could YHVH subject these men, women and children to such laws, when He already knew that they were born of the “sin nature”, and would thus miss the mark of Torah and suffer the consequences? Moshe said to them: “Yet to this day YHVH has not given you a heart to know, nor eyes to see, nor ears to hear” (Deut. 29:4). How unfair it all seemed, or was YHVH concealing His plan in the darkness of the “mystery of iniquity” (2nd Thes.2:7, also Eph.2:1-2)?

A MATTER OF THE HEART

“YHVH has not yet given you...” In this short phrase we see that YHVH holds Himself responsible for the future success, or failure, of His plan. Even after the flood YHVH declared that, “man’s heart is evil from his youth” (Gen. 8:21). Because of this inherent condition, Moses, under the anointing of the Holy One, begins to prophecy the destiny of the Hebrew people: “And it shall come to pass, when all these things are come upon you, the blessing and the curse, which I have set before you, and you call them to mind among all the nations, where YHVH your God has driven you…” (Deut. 30:1). Before the Children of Israel had a chance to prove themselves, or even to make any kind of free will choice, YHVH already knew what would happen to them, because of the condition of their heart.

As mentioned, YHVH had made Himself accountable regarding the covenant that He made with the Patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, a covenant replete with blessings of land and fruitfulness that would multiply and spread to all nations. But this covenant (‘of Moav’), issued before entering the land was conditional. Standing before YHVH, they are looking toward the land that they are about to enter, the land of milk and honey promised to their forefathers. However, the conditions for remaining in the land are now hanging over their heads like a seething prophetic refining pot. "But if your heart turns away so that you do not hear, and are drawn away, and worship other gods and serve them, I announce to you today that you shall surely perish; you shall not prolong your days in the land which you cross over the Jordan to go in and possess” (Deut. 30:17-18). It was as if YHVH was using this conditional covenant as a tool to fulfill the Abrahamic Covenant, and preparing the way for an even greater promise.

YHVH KNOWS...

History reveals that YHVH was true to His word, even though the potential consequences of the Moav Covenant may be interpreted as negative and even disastrous (abounding in curses and not blessings). Some may even venture to condemn the generations of our forefathers for failing to live up to the righteousness of Torah. YHVH, aware of these weaknesses, built into the Sinai Covenant the sacrificial system for atonement and forgiveness of sin to be in effect year after year throughout the cycles of the feasts. But did the Sinai Covenant take care of the condition of the heart? Obviously we would have to answer: “no, it did not”. In fact, it did the very opposite, revealing the corruptness of the heart. Yeshua pointed out this condition, as recorded in the Gospel of Mark: “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness; all these evil things come from within, and defile the man” (7:21-23). This is why Yeshua describes the religious man as a white washed tomb. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness” (Mat. 23:27-28).

How was YHVH going to have a People that would become a holy nation (Ex. 19:6), and be His witness (Isa. 43:10,12)? As Moses continues to prophesy we are given one of the first glimpses into the mystery of the will of YHVH (ref. Eph. 1:9-10), and into a covenant that would once and for all deal with the condition of the heart: “YHVH your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, so that you may love Him with all your heart and with all your soul, and live” (Deut. 30:6). A door of hope was left open; the destiny of the people was sealed by the prophetic word. The irrevocable calling upon them as YHVH’s people could not fail. YHVH said: “I WILL”, thus leaving no doubt that it was not going to be by the will of man, nor by might, nor by power but by the Spirit of the infallible Word/Torah of YHVH.

THE FINAL COVENANT REVEALED

The seed of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob was called out for YHVH’s namesake, called and chosen to be His firstborn (Ex. 4:22, Jer. 31:9), and, yes, to become YHVH’s possession and inheritance (Deut. 32:9). YHVH was not obligated to take care of them because of who they were. Their seed would become His witness and light to the nations because of His name, and the love that He had for their forefathers (Acts 1:8).

The prophet Ezekiel reiterated these same promising words many years later: “Therefore say to the house of Israel, this is what YHVH Elohim says: ‘It is not for your sake, O house of Israel, that I am going to do these things, but for the sake of my holy name, which you have profaned among the nations where you have gone. I will show the holiness of my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, the name you have profaned among them. Then the nations will know that I am the Lord’, declares YHVH Elohim, ‘when I show myself holy in you before their eyes. For I will take you out of the nations; I will gather you from all the countries and bring you back into your own land. I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my Torah. You will live in the land I gave your forefathers, you will be my people, and I will be your God’” (Eze 36:22-28).

Through His covenant-relationship with Israel, YHVH was literally putting His head, His “Godship”, His name (nature) on the “chopping block” of humanity. If He would not have been faithful to carry out His word, His covenant promises, to His people, especially to Abraham, then our faith and trust in Him would be to no avail, and the bible would simply be a book of bad jokes.

Step by step and line upon line God was setting the stage for the final covenant that would accomplish His purpose for the ages. It would be a blood covenant of grace and mercy, a covenant that would embody, fulfill and absorb all the previous covenants. This covenant would include a divine act of circumcising the heart, changing our very nature, in order for us to be able to love YHVH our Elohim with all our heart and with all our soul, and keep the commandments and live. This future covenant guaranteed life, because of the unconditional, unchanging, unfailing love and faithfulness of the God of Israel.

STANDING

Standing before YHVH is often seen as a time of consecration and sanctification, therefore just as our forefathers stood before YHVH, let us stand before this portion of His word, examining its prophetic past and its reality and fulfillment for today. May we conclude and say ‘yes’ and ‘amen’ to a Father who is sovereign, just, faithful and true` who keeps covenant and shows mercy; who gives grace and truth through His Redeemer – Messiah Yeshua - who gave His life not only for us but TO us.

Surely, we who have received the grace of the New Covenant, having a circumcised heart that we may understand, eyes to see the reality of the Kingdom of YHVH and ears to hear His Word, can agree with the statement from this week’s portion: “Now what I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach. It is not up in heaven, so that you have to ask, ‘Who will cross the sea to get it and proclaim it to us so we may obey it?’ No, the word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart so you may obey it” (Deut. 30:11-14).

Ephraim

FOR HIS NAME SAKE

2007-08-31T17:34:00.001+03:00

August 31, 2007

I don't know if you are like me, but I have really been fighting and struggling to overcome the power of sin, the world of lusts, and the devil. Reading the letters to the "congregations" in the book of Revelation, I noticed that they were all promised some wonderful things if they would only "overcome".

I had to ask myself if I'm any closer to this ideal than I was 35 years ago, when I first received the Life of the Messiah and the Spirit of Holiness. After so many years why am I still struggling in certain areas? Scripture says "… young men, because you are strong, and the word of Elohim abides in you,.. you have overcome the evil one" (1 John 2:14). When I looked at the mirror, it told me that I was a bit passed the young part. But are there any "young men" in the body of Messiah who have overcome the evil one? I had to ponder. There are a lot of wonderful people, but have they "overcome" the power of sin that is working in their members (ref. Romans 7: 23)?

Being a special education teacher, I had to examine to see if I had missed something in my spiritual early childhood development, which could be a handicap in my present spiritual walk. In his writings to little children, John the Apostle gave me a clue as to what may be my problem: "I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for His name's sake…and… "You know the Father…" (1 John 2:12, 13). Knowing that my sins are forgiven is not a problem, but what struck me was the last part of the statement: "for His name's sake". What is the meaning of "for His name's sake", and does it have something to do with knowing the Father? Could it be that in all my "Christian" education I never learned nor saw anyone living for the Father's "name sake"?

One of the first verses I had to memorize many years ago was, "Greater is He that is in you than He that is in the world" (1 John 4:4). I knew, back then, that Jesus overcame and that that was sufficient to get me to heaven. However, the first part of the verse was left out for some reason. "You are of Elohim [His name's sake] little children and have overcome them [the spirits that are not from Elohim]" (1 John 4:4). Overcoming seems to take place during childhood, as this is also the time in which one gets to know one's parents. "Little children you know the Father" (1 John 2:13). Yeshua said, "Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect" (Matthew 5:48), and Peter, quoting from the Torah, writes, "You shall be holy, for I am holy" (1 Peter 1:16, Leviticus 19:2).

I believe that belonging to YHVH, for His Name's Sake, is not just carrying the label of His name, but the very life and nature of the Father. Thus in order to overcome, our faith must take us into the Father's gospel-reality; that means that our identity is in fact no longer ours, but our Heavenly Father's through Yeshua our Messiah: "For you have died and your life is hidden with Messiah in Elohim. When Messiah, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory" (Colossians 3:3-4). Getting to know Him is getting to know who we are as His children, as His body, as His nation Israel. Hence, my overcoming is not going to be based on how hard I work at defeating sin and the world, but on recognizing that my sins were forgiven me not for my name's sake, but for His and that victory and overcoming are based on knowing the Father's righteousness and His life in me. "For whoever is born of Elohim overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world-- our faith" (1 John 5:4). "And who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Yeshua is the Son of Elohim?" (1 John 5:5).

Over the years I have written about the importance of firstborn, and that according to Scripture all first fruit and firstborn belong to Elohim. That means that they are His and are here for His name's sake. Yeshua was the perfect example, He was not just the only begotten Son of Elohim, but He was also the firstborn of creation and firstborn from the dead (ref. Colossians 1: 15-18). Yeshua overcame because He knew who and what He was as a firstborn redeemer, and lived for His Father's Name sake. We too are likened to the first fruit of the new creation (ref. James 1: 18), but not only of the 'new', we are also of the 'old'; "Israel is my firstborn" (Exodus 4:22); "Ephraim is my firstborn" (ref Jeremiah 31:9). As firstborn, we belong to YHVH Elohim for His name's sake. This is seen in YHVH's response to us through the prophet Ezekiel:

"Therefore, say to the house of Israel, 'Thus says YHVH Elohim, "It is not for your sake, O house of Israel, that I am about to act, but for My holy name, which you have profaned among the nations where you went. "And I will vindicate the holiness of My great name which has been profaned among the nations, which you have profaned in their midst. Then the nations will know that I amYHVH," declares YHVH Elohim, "when I prove Myself holy in you in their sight" (Ezekiel 36: 22-23).

May it be so!

Ephraim

REPLACEMENT THEOLOGY

2007-08-10T13:35:00.001+03:00

August 10, 2007

"Here goes another message…" you are thinking… "about the church replacing the Jews, or the House of Judah (Jews) replacing the House of Joseph/Israel…" No, not this time! The issue at hand is altogether different - it is one that is even more serious, incurring dire consequences. It has to do with replacing YHVH's commandments, especially the first one: "You shall love YHVH your Elohim with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength" (Deuteronomy 6: 5; Matthew 22:37).

Why did Yeshua teach us that of all the commandments, this one is the most important? In fact, He even indicated that all the others are contingent upon this one. Thus, if we do not keep this command, the others are rendered as of no effect. Have we unwittingly replaced this commandment with perhaps hundreds of others? Have we added to or taken away from this most important Torah ruling?

YHVH warned Israel: "You shall not add to the word which I am commanding you, nor take away from it, that you may keep the commandments of YHVH your Elohim which I command you… whatever I command you, you shall be careful to do; you shall not add to nor take away from it" (Deuteronomy 4:2; 12:32). Adding to or taking away from the Word of Elohim also constitutes a form of replacement theology. In any language, if letters are removed from words; added or replaced (especially the consonants), the meaning will be changed and in many cases lost altogether. Yeshua, speaking to his disciples said that "until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass away from the Torah, until all is accomplished" (Matthew 5:18). Yeshua did not come to do away with the Torah, but rather to fulfill and bring clarity to it as seen, for example, in what is called the "Sermon on the Mount".

YHVH warned Israel what would happen to them if they did not walk according to His instructions: "Your eyes have seen what YHVH has done in the case of Baal-peor, for all the men who followed Baal-peor, YHVH your Elohim has destroyed them from among you. But you who held fast to YHVH your Elohim are alive today, every one of you" (Deuteronomy 4: 3-40).

In the wisdom of the Proverbs we get a glimpse at how dangerous it is to add to YHVH's word: "Do not add to His words, lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar" (Proverbs 30:6). Revelation 21:8 reveals to us that "all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death" (Revelation 21:8).

The positive side, however, is that there is a wonderful promise to those who do obey YHVH's instruction: "My son, forget not my Torah; but let your heart keep my commandments: For length of days and years of life, and peace they will add to you" (Proverbs 3:1-2 emphases added). If you are like me, I really struggle with loving my Heavenly Father with all my heart, soul and strength. It seems that the battle rages inside me to keep this from being my primary goal. Each and every day I become occupied with so many other thoughts, words and actions. And as I reflect back on the day, just thinking about that commandment may have only been a momentary or fleeting experience. It is obvious that this does not come naturally to us and it takes effort to embrace and cling to this most important injunction.

The Torah instructions disclose to us that YHVH our Elohim tests us to see if we will love Him. One such acid test, which proves whether there is a heart to love YHVH or not, is the enticement by a prophet or dreamer of dreams who performs signs and wonders in order to draw us (Israel) to follow (love) other gods and serve them (ref. Deuteronomy 13:3). When our forefathers were taken through the desert, Elohim confided in them His reason for having led them that way: "And you shall remember all the way which YHVH your Elohim has led you in the wilderness these forty years, that He might humble you, testing you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not" (Deuteronomy 8:2).

It seems that YHVH gives us wilderness experiences each and every day, for this same reason. Are we making excuses during these times, complaining about the circumstances or people that He has placed in our path, or do we see them as opportunities to love Him with all our heart, soul and strength?

The most important aspect of our Heavenly Father's relationship with us is the intimacy through a heart of love. I pray that we have not replaced this first and most important commandment for another. Perhaps one of the reasons that our Creator gave us the Shabbat is so that we would have at least one day out of the week to practice loving Him. But if we have not known His love for us, and we do not express with all our hearts love towards Him, it will be very difficult to find that inner peace that brings the rest and a true Shabbat experience.

Ephraim

TAKING OUT A NATION

2007-08-05T11:25:00.002+03:00

August 3, 2007

In last week's letter I suggested that we are living in the days of restoration, which brought to mind something Moshe said to Israel upon their entrance to the good land: "… has a god tried to go to take for himself a nation from within another nation by trials, by signs and wonders and by war and by a mighty hand and by an outstretched arm and by great terrors, as YHVH your Elohim did for you in Egypt before your eyes?" (Deuteronomy 4:34).

Was the above scripture played out once again over the past hundred years, when the first nation/stick of Judah (see Eze 37:16) was taken out of the nations by the mighty hand of the Almighty, and brought back to the land? Were there not two world wars during this time? If this is what it took to bring a remnant of the first nation out; what about the second nation "in the hand of Ephraim" (Ezekiel 37: 19 Zechariah 10)? Is this the scenario which is unfolding before our eyes? Will we see great terrors, trials, signs, wonders and wars? There is much resistance by religious authorities to this biblical understanding, namely to the fact that YHVH has these two witness nations of Judah and Israel and that they are to be restored into one nation in the land. Never-the-less, YHVH's Word is the "same yesterday, today and forever". And since He is watching over His Word to perform it, it really does not make much difference what man thinks, although YHVH does grant windows of time for repentance.

Many of you responded positively to last week's letter (DDD), for which I would like to thank you. I would also like to add that none of us can foretell the future, but we can have fun looking at the horizon and analyzing what we see. The following is a portion of a letter that I received last week:

"What we've witnessed many times is the "Chicken Little syndrome", where someone is crying the sky is falling..., and it leads to the "Boy who cried wolf" syndrome where folks then tend to become numb, complacent and will cease to rightly respond. We do not want to be watchmen who are like mute dogs that cannot sound a warning, but as we're peering to the horizon to see what may be coming, we need to have the object in focus before we start crying battle. We have to be still, and press our ears to hear and wait on Father".

With that in mind, I am going to 'take a shot' at what I perceive to be Syria's reason for flexing its muscles on its border with Israel. The Syrians are well aware of the consequences that they would have to face, should they attack Israel. Hence I believe their reason for feigning military aggression is in order to force the UN and the US to put pressure on Israel to abide by UN-resolutions which address the handing over of all territories, and the creation of a PA State. Assad also feels compelled to demonstrate strength of leadership and a posture of 'standing up' to Israel. Should a Syrian threat be imminent and in earnest, Israel could make use of a preemptive attack. It doesn't appear, however, that Olmert is ready to do that, especially with Peres, who wants peace at all costs, at the helm. Thus, in the course of this past week all kinds of diplomatic efforts were made, and voices (including from the Bush government) were heard making pronouncements regarding the emergence of a PA State before the American President leaves office.

On the other hand efforts have been made on the part of some moderate Western Islamic clerics to deplore Muslim extremists. One even went so far as to point his finger directly at the Saudis, who are the ones financing the building of mosques and perpetuating their particular brand of Islam (Wahabbism) which is the most extreme sect within Suni Islam. This cleric advised the Bush administration to stop supporting the Saudi regime. But lo and behold, guess who is now behind the most recent peace initiative? Do you want to laugh or cry?

As far as war is concerned, we in Israel are at war with Hezbollah and Hamas. As to the Saudis, our government is willing to sit down with them (with the backing of the USA) and at least in principle accept their plan, which is nothing more than another version of UN resolution 224 and 338 and motivated by mega bucks. At this point we will have to wait and see what will come out of it. Could this be one more prop on the stage of the land division scene (Joel 3:2), very specifically "the mountains of Israel" which consist of what is commonly called the West Bank? In Ezekiel 36:1-4 the enemies declare that those areas belong to them.

But in contrast, the Elohim of Israel says: "I will make them [Judah and Israel] one nation in the land, on the mountains of Israel; and one king will be king for all of them; and they will no longer be two nations, and they will no longer be divided into two kingdoms" (Ezekiel 37:22).

Ephraim

D-D-D

2007-07-27T16:10:00.001+03:00

July 27, 2007

For the past six months (and longer) there have been numerous predictions of war. Just as Yeshua predicted, that are not only wars, but also plenty of "rumors of wars". With the advent of the Internet we have surely fulfilled the quota of this prophecy. This generation of Believers appears to be afflicted with a syndrome that may be termed DDD (Deceptive Disinformation Dissemination).

I'm sure by now you have heard or seen the following:

"If war between Syria and Israel is indeed imminent the message calls for our most urgent intercession. It is interesting to note that… and his team recently commented that Syria is currently closing its borders and withdrawing all its personnel from Lebanon. Hal Lindsay backed up this info in his report on SKY TV on the evening of the 17th July and hinted at all out war."
Here is another email:

"Today we had business to do in Jerusalem, so we left our home at 7 am and traveled down the east side of the Galilee, through Bet Shean and past the check point at Sede Trimot in the Jordan Valley.

Once we entered the Jordan Valley as we passed through the Arab agricultural areas we noticed the following which is most unusual;

1. There were no people visible working the in the fields.
2. There were no children along the side of the road.
3. There were no tractors or other farm vehicles anywhere to be seen.
4. All of the vegetables had been completely harvested and the fields were 100% empty.
5. No preparation of the fields was evident for the next planting...Plastic was everywhere from the prior crop.
6. The greenhouses had no plants in them.....
7. The vegetable stands that are normally filled to the brim from the harvest were completely vacant.
8. This is the peak season for growing vegetables in the Jordan Valley, yet everything had been harvested and nothing was growing waiting to be harvested or picked.

We concluded our business in Jerusalem and got back on the road again about 2:45 pm
Heading north up the Jordan Valley. Again, no people, no fruit stands, no crops, nothing!"

Because there is such an interest in end-times and particularly in Israel's involvement in it, some Believers have become so obsessed with what they think or perceive to be a part of this scenario that they end up with what I call "end-time paranoia". Some friends in our fellowship traveled through this same area, going from Jerusalem to the North, and saw what would seem a complete opposite state of affairs. One has to realize that the Jordan Valley during the summer, especially at certain times of the day, is so hot (120 degrees is not unusual) that it would not allow the presence of anyone in the fields. Living in Samaria, surrounded by Arab villages and farms, we have been watching our neighbors busy in their fields and selling their fruit alongside the roads. Thus there is nothing that would confirm the above description.

Having some kind of reputation, does not make one ministry or another an authority on the prophetic. Many a time such "prophecies" are backed up by the claim that the "resulting intercession" changed the prophetic destiny. We must learn how to cast down every thought and imagination that exalt themselves against the knowledge of the sovereignty of the Most High Elohim.

Another email was just sent to us, of which came from a Messianic pastor here in Israel:
"For those of you considering travel to Israel but are concerned about security issues and the imminent threat of war I want to encourage you and your families. I personally see no indication of war against Israel in the immediate future, despite numbers of disturbing reports. Frankly I am concerned by the irresponsibility of some of these reports and so called, 'prophetic words.'I do believe in the prophetic and I believe that God warns through his prophets. This is all the more reason that we must be more careful in issuing prophetic alerts, so that we do not become skeptical of the true prophetic because of so many misguided, emotionally based warnings. We all remember the boy who cried 'wolf.'"

I believe that we are in the days of restoration, even though the times may be very turbulent. We therefore need to fix our eyes on the one who is faithfully fulfilling His words that He spoke to our forefathers and the prophets of old. Yes, there is a need for intercessors, but of the kind that are led by the Spirit, understand and are established in "present truth", desiring to cooperate with YHVH and not configure imaginary end time scenarios.

Ephraim

A DESERT'S SECRET

2007-06-01T15:58:00.001+03:00

June 1, 2007

This week we would like to take you on an adventure that we were privileged to experience last week. A while back we received an invitation from some friends, to spend two days with them after Shavuot in the Negev desert by the Egyptian border. The place just happens to be in one of the main areas where our forefathers set up camp, after leaving Egypt. Today there are a number of Israeli settlements in that locale, one of which is called by the region's ancient name, Kadesh - Barnea.

We gathered in a local charming and simple guest facility, something of a Bedouin desert inn with a Mexican touch, spread out accommodations and a herd of camels for neighbors. After an evening of songs of praise under the starlit skies, tea and coffee by the fire pit, cheerful hilarity and exchanges with other guests, our little group headed to the one room bungalow to find our mats and sleeping bags. We tried to arrange the mats in such a way that our feet would not be too close to someone else's nose. During the night the stillness was intercepted occasionally by the sounds of sleepers, from all around. At one point Rimona was hushing what she thought was a cat, only to find out that someone was coming back in, after using the outdoor toilet. The early morning is such a beautiful time in the desert that most were up for a walk, or sat outside by the camp fire drinking a cup of sugar with either tea or coffee in it, reading scriptures and praising the Creator. Soon it was time for the buffet style breakfast of salads, cheeses, bread and eggs. As we all set around on floor mats, Bedouin style, we discussed the coming jeep tour.

The desert is always fascinating, and at times may even disclose some of its secrets to the observant (or fortunate) visitor. Our friend, tour guide and driver, Eyal, moved to this region with his family about four years earlier. He had been doing quite a bit of researching and investigating of the biblical significance of the area. Investing time, zeal, and arduous efforts Eyal has become party to some of the desert's most precious mysteries, especially concerning biblical events that have taken place there.

The eight of us (plus our guide/driver) settled into the vehicle that was to carry us to an unknown destiny across gorges, hills, and river beds. After an interesting and rather rough journey, which to our surprise unveiled much of the desert's hidden beauty of green, yellow and purple flora, we finally arrived at our destination.

Eyal had kept us in suspense until we were actually standing at the spot, where our eyes fell on a semi circular shallow basin-like structure, about the size of a two man tent and surrounded by rocks that had been piled up to form a wall. In the middle of the floor was a small pillar. The archeologists who uncovered this back in the 1970's were astonished to find these small structures all over the area. After giving us some general background about archeology, and especially about the prevailing dating system, Eyal expounded on the stony structures, surrounding us. Archeology, it appears, does not favor the bible as a source of facts and information, to put it mildly. Thus, according to the experts, a very large group of nomads had stayed for a while in that area and then disappeared. But because of an obsolete, but still venerated dating system, the archeologists will not even consider the Israelites as a possibility, but at the same time are not able to agree as to whom those nomads were, and their possible motive for camping in that arid part of the world. To our eyes, however, it was obvious that this was the campsite of the Israelites, and that the structures we were viewing were what the bible calls "succas", or temporary shelters. The middle pillar evidently held the roof, which was made up of branches, or possibly skins or cloths of some kind.

Bones of kosher animals were also found in the area, as well as stone mortars and pestles, although without as much as a seed, grain, cereal or shell, which always accompany such findings. As puzzling as that fact is to the intellectual researchers, to the bible believer it is crystal clear, namely that these stone mills were used to grind the manna. Given its special nature, this substance would not have left any remains.

After walking through this area, Eyal took us to another site, where we viewed large piles of rocks, about four feet high and six feet in diameter. The archeologists who uncovered these constructions concluded that they were graves, all empty except for an occasional tooth or small bone. Interestingly, a permanent graveyard, which was excavated in the hills north of Jericho, seems to have held the answer to the mystery of the empty tombs in this part of the Negev. The tombs that were discovered in the latter site, contrary to the earlier ones, were full of bones but it was obvious that these bones were transported from somewhere else. Additionally, no idols were found in those graves, which indicated that the buried originated from a culture and religion different from the local one of the time.

Having seen so closely our forefathers' homes and resting places, and the evidence of the exactness and veracity of the biblical record, was most inspiring and up building. It made history truly His Story, and not a mere series of past events, a Story that is couched in eternity which we can experience in our own 'here and now'.

Ephraim

A SHAVUOT STORY

2007-05-26T13:27:00.002+03:00

May 26, 2007

It was a bright and beautiful spring morning with a hint of an impending heat wave. The olive trees dotting the landscape added silvery hues to the golden light. But even more spectacular was the light that was reflecting from the Temple, commanding, in all its glory, Mount Moriah to the west. As the smoke was rising from the morning sacrifices, it caught the sunrays and appeared to be sending them back to the heavens from whence they came. It was the 40th day of the Counting of the Omer. It might have even been Rosh Chodesh (that is the first day of the third month). For a number of days now, during the Counting, the little band of students followed their Master to this lovely spot, to listen to him speak about the Kingdom of Elohim. But today things seemed different. Yeshua was not the same as He had been in the past little while. Something was in the air…

One of the disciples whispered over to the other, as they began their ascent toward the summit of the Mount of Olives, “Do you recall what He said to us a few days before Passover, words we did not understand then?” “Yes,” replied the listener, “He said, 'in a little while you will not see Me, and again a little while you we will see Me, because I go the Father.'” Another disciple, half listening in to the conversation, suddenly butted in, “that’s right, the Master told us that there would come an hour in which we would remember the things He had told us.” Yeshua, walking just a few paces ahead, was smiling as He overheard their talk.

They nearly reached the summit, when a follower of the disciples who had been within earshot, asked them to fill him in on what Yeshua had told them. All three began to respond to the inquirer all at once. Then suddenly they all stopped, just as quickly as they had started. Smiling and laughing at each other, as they were gesturing with their hands, they knew instinctively who should answer this time. It was Yochanan. The beloved disciple began to describe the episode that had occurred just before the fateful day of their teacher’s arrest. He told the young man that had Yeshua not done among the people and the religious leaders the works which He had done, the latter would not have been guilty of sin; but now, after having witnessed His deeds, their response demonstrated their hatred for Him, and also for His Father. "This," Yochanan added, "happened that the word from Psalm 35;19 'they hated Me without a cause', might be fulfilled." He then proceeded to tell the young fellow that Yeshua had spoken to them about a Helper whom He would send to them from the Father. “Yeshua said that this Spirit, which He called the Spirit of Truth, would come forth from the Father and that He would testify as to who Yeshua really was, and because of His presence we also, who have been with Yeshua from the beginning, would bear witness to the Truth.” Yochanan continued breathlessly as they climbed together. "These things Yeshua spoke to us, that we should not stumble. Yeshua further said that we would be put out of the synagogues; yes, even that a time would come that whosoever kills us will think that he is doing Elohim a favorable service. These things they will do to us because they have not known the Father, or the Messiah. Our Master told us these things, so that when the time comes we would remember these things and be ready. He did not tell us these things at first because He was with us, but now that He was going back to the One who sent Him, He wanted to warn us. Amazingly none of us had asked Him where He was going, although His words were very troublesome to us and our hearts were filled with sorrow. But then He said something very strange. He told us that His going away would be to our advantage. That did not make sense to us at all. Who is this Helper whom He was talking about, who will not come to us unless Yeshua would go away? Only if He departs, would He then send this Helper to us, and when the Helper comes He will convict the world of sin and of righteousness, and of judgment.”

The man was very perplexed over these words, but before he could ask, “where is Yeshua going?” they had arrived at the summit. A feeling of awe and deep reverence swept their hearts, as Yeshua turned to face them. His voice was stern and commanding when He told them not to leave Jerusalem before the Father’s promise is fulfilled. They all looked at one another, expecting someone to ask the inevitable question, “Where are you going and when will you return?”

Yet no one spoke. But the silence which surrounded them did not still their minds. They remained preoccupied with thoughts on the previous days’ teachings about the Kingdom of Elohim. Their expectations were aroused once again by Yeshua’s words about the coming Kingdom. Was He now going to lead them into Jerusalem in a triumphant march of victory, and set up His Kingdom over Israel? They had such hopes before His death! And oh how terribly disappointed and devastated they were when He hung on the execution tree! But now, after His reappearance, their hopes had been rekindled with the passion to see the Kingdom restored to Israel.

The impetuous students could no longer resist, and turning to Yeshua asked Him point blank: “Is it at this time that You are going to restore the Kingdom to Israel?” All eyes remained fixed upon His gentle face, as He answered them candidly in a matter of fact tone: “It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority; but you will receive power when the Holy Sprit has come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth” (Acts 1: 7-8). Before those standing around could gather their thoughts, a mist began to appear over and around the Messiah. To their amazement He began to rise along with the cloud and soon evaporated out of sight.

Standing there on top of that mountain gazing in wonderment at the blue sky, nothing seemed to be real to the bewildered band. No more questions and no more answers. A feeling of disbelief descended upon them. But the dramatic scene was not over yet. Two men dressed in white appeared from nowhere and stood in front of them. Where had they come from? No one knew. These mysterious characters, however, seemed to recognize them and even knew where they were from. “Men of Galilee! “, they announced, “Why do you stand looking into the sky? Yeshua who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven” (Acts 1: 11).

Total silence enveloped them as they trekked back down the mountain. Crossing the bridge in front of the Temple they hurriedly made their way back to the upper room, where they had been staying while they counted the Omer with their Master. Now the Messiah was no longer with them. All that lingered were His departing words, calling for them to remain in Jerusalem. Fishing in the Sea of Galilee seemed now like a faraway dream, yet the Teacher’s words to them, of becoming fishers of men still held them captive. Together with one mind and in prayer they finished the Counting of the Fifty Days.
When the Feast Day arrived, they were still together in that same room. Suddenly a sound of a violent rushing wind cut through the place, and then appeared what looked like "tongues of fire". Right then they were filled with that which was promised by the Father. Stunned by the overwhelming presence of the Spirit, they reeled back and forth like drunkards and spoke in strange languages. Although eying each other, as if they were strangers, they now felt that they had knowledge of, and an intimacy with their Elohim and Messiah which they had never thought possible. Bathing in the Father’s love, they went into the streets and with little effort spoke in the languages of those present, convicting them of sin, righteousness and judgment. They expounded the truth of Torah in a new and living way, healing the sick, lame and blind, casting out demons as if the authority of heaven was in their very mouths. There was no doubt in anyone’s mind that this was Yeshua’s answer to their question about the Kingdom being restored to Israel. They were now the witnesses to that Kingdom, which came into them via the Spirit of Holiness. Later, one of the apostles would put this experience, of the indwelling Spirit, into perspective by saying that the “Kingdom of Elohim is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).

As we approach the 50th day of the counting of the Omer, let us continue to pray with one heart as our Messiah has taught us: “Our Father, Who art in Heaven, Holy be your Name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven…” His Kingdom has come into our hearts by the Holy Spirit’s presence, but now are we prepared to do His will?

Ephraim

GET TOGETHER

2007-05-18T11:44:00.001+03:00

May 18, 2007

Hopefully by now you have become acclimated to being called an "Israelite". Moreover, to some of you the Spirit has revealed your specific tribal identity. Others, on the other hand, feel that they are Gentiles, while there are those who know that they are of Judah and others refer to themselves as Ephraimites. Our national/natural identity is indeed very important, so long as it does not cause us to lose our sense of identity and unity with and in Messiah Yeshua.

Paul declared something about himself that most of us would like to ignore. However, that statement is so important to our own oneness/unity that it bears considering and reading over and over, until it is fully absorbed: "I also might have confidence in the flesh. If anyone else thinks he may have confidence in the flesh, I more so: circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Messiah. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Messiah Yeshua my Master, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Messiah and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Messiah, the righteousness which is from Elohim by faith; that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead" (Philippians 3: 4-11). In addition, although a born-again Believer and a seasoned apostle, Paul viewed himself as a "wretched man" (Romans 7: 24).

Please do not misunderstand me. I am not trying to make light of the natural identity. Without a doubt, it is a very significant factor. It is very much a part of our testimony and witness to YHVH's faithfulness to His covenants, and to that which He spoke through His prophets of old. However, we do not only have an earthly testimony; there is also a heavenly one to which we bear witness.

Writing to the Ephesian Believers, both Jews and non-Jews, circumcised and uncircumcised, the Apostle highlights their first point of unity: "And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest" (Ephesians 2:1-3). Even with all of the Jewish and Torah keeping credentials, he came to realize that he was no different than any other person.

In that famous Chapter 11 of Romans, Paul notes that "Elohim gave up all", and that means all mankind, to disobedience (ref Romans 11:32). If YHVH has given all up to this condition, no one is exempt. Thankfully Paul doesn't stop there, but introduces another point regarding our unity/togetherness, as is seen in the following verses: "But Elohim, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Messiah (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Messiah Yeshua" (Ephesians 2:4-6).

Isn't that wonderful? By His grace and love YHVH made us alive together with Messiah, raised us up with Him and caused us to sit together with Him, and hence with one another. Psalm 133 tells us how pleasant and how important it is for brothers to sit/dwell/be in unity. YHVH redeemed and restored us in order for us to participate in an administration that for ages was hidden in Himself, but has now been made known to us and through us (that is, if we are sitting together in Messiah) to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places (ref. Ephesians 3: 9-10).

Wow! Just think, at first we were all together under the influence of the prince and power of the air, and the spirit that was working in us was the same one that works in all the sons of disobedience… But because of His great love and grace, He has now taken us out of the kingdoms of this world's darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son (Colossians 1:13). The nature of this kingdom of light is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (ref Galatians 5:22-23). These qualities are evident in those who are seated together in these heavenly places in Messiah Yeshua. As a result we are now ruling over the spirits that once ruled us.

Since we are called to such an incredible place, the Apostle implores us "to be worthy of this calling by putting on humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4: 1-3). With that let us greet one another with a hearty and fragrant….

Ephraim

YA'ACOV MY SERVANT

2007-05-11T15:46:00.001+03:00

May 11, 2007

"Who has performed and accomplished it, calling forth the generations from the beginning? I YHVH the first, and am with the last. I am He" (Isaiah 41:4). Rephrased this verse would read: "I YHVH, the first and the last, have performed and accomplished it, calling the generations from the beginning." Because YHVH is speaking here very specifically about the life of Ya'acov in his progeny throughout all its generations, we, who have his life in this generation, are assured of His continual involvement, until He will fully accomplish His word and purpose for the whole house of Ya'acov.

"But you, Israel, My servant, Ya'acov whom I have chosen, descendant of Avraham My friend, you whom I have taken from the ends of the earth, and called from its remotest parts, and said to you, 'you are My servant, I have chosen you and not rejected you. Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your Elohim. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand'" (Isaiah 41: 8-10). These words from the Elohim of Ya'acov, especially to those of us who have come from the "rejected" side of his house (meaning the lost tribes), are very encouraging and comforting, indicating that YHVH is "watching over His word to perform it" (Jeremiah 1:12).

YHVH warns those who content with or war against His servants, but at the same time tells us (Israel/Ya'acov) not to fear: "Behold, all those who are angered at you will be shamed and dishonored; those who contend with you will be as nothing, and will perish. You will seek those who quarrel with you, but will not find them, those who war with you will be as nothing, and non-existent. For I am YHVH your Elohim, who upholds your right hand, Who says to you, 'do not fear, I will help you'" (Isaiah 41:11-13).

The greatest challenge that we, as the redeemed of Israel have, is to contend with the spirits of unbelief and doubt. However, these two messengers of Satan are discernable because of their modus operandi (mode of operation) of exalting themselves above the knowledge of the Word of Elohim (ref. 2 Corinthians 10:5). In this generation of the seed of the forefathers, we are being challenged like never before: from the cares and the riches of the world, to wars, rumors of wars, earthquakes and other natural disasters, and in particular the rise of the sword of Islam. The frogs are croaking the message of "fear" from every avenue of communication. But in the case of YHVH's redeemed remnant, fear should not be a motivating factor in decision making. We need to be strong in the strength of His "Righteous Right Hand", whom we know as Yeshua our Messiah and our righteousness.

If we will humble ourselves and pray, YHVH will answer and will not forsake us. He will open rivers on the bare heights; springs in the midst of the valleys. He will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land fountains of water (ref. Isaiah 41:17-18).

In this generation we need to know who we are and to whom we belong. We are His redeemed remnant "Israel", His servant. We are here and alive in Messiah for His namesake, that is, we are to be a manifestation of His nature. This is first seen in our families, and then in our relationships with one another in the body of Messiah.

May our studies of Torah (scriptures) this week be accompanied by "faith, hope, and love", all of which, working together, establish us in the unity of His Kingdom, as a holy nation and royal priesthood.

As we enter into His Shabbat, "let the peace of Elohim rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful" (Colossians 3:15).
Ephraim

ISRAELITE IDENTITY

2007-04-27T17:51:00.001+03:00

April 27, 2007

It has been a number of years now since I have started using this introduction (namely "fellow Israelite"), to reinforce our identity as a redeemed Jewish or Gentile person in Messiah. Many believers are coming into what is termed the "Hebraic roots". This must translate itself into a national identity, and not into a religious uniqueness of sorts. Peter, writing to both Gentiles and Jews, declares that we are a "Holy Nation" (ref Exodus 19:6; 1 Peter 2:9). Doesn't this nation have a name, or is it devoid of one? Paul gives us a clue in his Epistle to the Ephesians.

"Therefore remember, that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called "Uncircumcision " by the so-called "Circumcision," which is performed in the flesh by human hands-- remember that you were at that time separate from Messiah, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Messiah Yeshua you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Messiah" (Ephesians 2:11-13).

He continues to write to these two people groups (that are in Messiah), telling them that the wall of partition has been broken down, and that they have become one within the same house, through the life (blood) of the Redeemer. He goes on to say that there is no Jew or Greek (ref Col 3:11), but yet all are identified with Messiah, thus with Israel. He is calling his audience "former Gentiles" who are now Israelites. Perhaps Jewish believers need to come to the same understanding; i.e. that they too were formally Jewish but now are Israelites. This puts both parties on notice that they do not belong to themselves, but to Him who has made them one people through His divine nature and has begotten a new creation and a holy nation.

But is this commonwealth of Israel only a spiritual reality, or does its witness include being a part of the physical fulfillment of Biblical prophecy? Are the redeemed Jews the only ones in this new family that the fulfillment of prophecy is referring to, or are all Israelites included? Are we one, or are we not? Do we belong to the same commonwealth or are there two, one for the Jew and another for the Gentile-cum-Israelite? In fact, if this is the case then there must be two covenants, one with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and one with all those who are not of this genus.

While the Spirit is drawing the believing community to the roots of YHVH's plan for the redemption and restoration of His kingdom to all Israel, there are some who are falsely charging us, of telling non-Jews in Messiah that they are to become Jewish. Just to set the record straight; we are declaring, in accordance with the words of the prophets and apostles, that we are all Israelites. Those who are dividing the body of Messiah through false accusation, jealousy, or resentment are not walking in love, or in the reality of the Gospel. If our spiritual enemy and our natural ones can prevent us from becoming a royal priesthood and holy nation, they will have won the battle without too much resistance on our part. As a royal priesthood we are to offer ourselves up as a living sacrifice (ref Romans 12:1), casting down every thought and imagination that exalts itself against the knowledge of Elohim (ref 2 Corinthians 10:5). It is very important that we all understand what it means to be an Israelite, YHVH's firstborn nation (ref. Exodus 4:22).

Ephraim

BEES, FISHERS AND HUNTERS

2007-04-20T16:21:00.001+03:00

April 20, 2007

I'm sure most of you have been watching the News, of the latest mass killing that just took place in the U.S.A. Another loss that is taking place in great proportions in many nations, that is only now beginning to make headlines, is the disappearance of the honey bee, especially in the United States and Europe. This fact in the long run could spell disaster for the food chain and affect the crops. The experts are calling this phenomenon, "colony collapse syndrome". It is thought that the cellular phone antennas are causing the bees to loose their homing capabilities. The word for "bee" in Hebrew is "d'vorah", stemming from the root d.v.r which is the root for the verb "to speak". We thought it quite ironic, or perhaps prophetic of the last days when the "Word of Elohim" - "Dvar YHVH" - is being confused by the multitudes of man's communication devices and as a result His people have lost their ability to return to their home in "Zion", not to mention the collapse of the family unit, which is breaking down human society.

Speaking of homing capabilities, a few years ago I intermittently sent my personal testimony, as part of the weekly Friday letters. Close to the time of completion of this series, Batya Wootten suggested to compile the letters into a book. This is now history as the book came out about two years ago. It is called "Return to the Land - an Ephraimite's Journey Home", published by Key of David Publishing. Over an eight year period I have written over 350 Friday letters, along with other articles on a variety of subjects, in addition I have traveled and given lectures and seminars on the theme of the "Gospel of the kingdom in the Torah and Prophets". Yet the main thrust of these teachings has been the exposition of YHVH's plan of redemption, and its connection to the restoration of His kingdom to the whole House of Israel.

A friend of ours has taken much of this material and has come up with an essay, which is her own elucidation of this theme, that is - "The Restoration of YHVH's Kingdom to Israel". I too have compiled a manuscript with more of an emphasis on unlocking YHVH'S plan for the redemption of the creation. With the permission of this friend, I will be putting her manuscript on a blog site. At the same time, I may be sending out, periodically in chapter form, the manuscript I had composed as the weekly Friday letter. As I stated in an earlier letter, all revelation knowledge belongs to the Spirit of Holiness who has been sent to teach us and guide into all truth. Thus, the glory does not belong to man but to the name that is above all names. We all see through a glass darkly, so if I have added things that are not clear or that reflect my own understanding or interpretation, I trust that you will be so kind as to forgive and even give me some scriptural guidance.

We are presently living in a period of the outpouring of YHVH's Spirit, an outpouring which is leading us into "present truth". There are, therefore, many in the Body of Messiah who are seeing and hearing these same truths and are sharing them, so that others may be edified and receive confirmation as to what the Spirit is, in turn, revealing to them. YHVH is currently in the process of bringing the nations to the Valley of Jehosaphat ("Yah's judgments"); we therefore need Him to reveal to us as much truth as possible, so that we will not be ensnared by the deception of the growing "Anti-Messiah" spirit.

Over the past hundred and fifty years, YHVH has been sending the fishers out to bring the message of the Gospel of Yeshua the Savior to all nations. Now He is sending the hunters (Nimrod, Esau, Amalikites, Ishmael) into those same nations by way of Islam.
"Behold, I will send for many fishermen," says the LORD, "and they shall fish them; and afterward I will send for many hunters, and they shall hunt them from every mountain and every hill, and out of the holes of the rocks" (Jeremiah 16:16).
Because this is of Elohim, nothing will stop their advancement until they accomplish the mission for which they have been sent.

Sadly, many, who have been called out to become disciples of Yeshua, will fall away because of lies which they have been fed concerning YHVH's Word. The Apostles wrote their letters based on the revelation that they had received from the scriptures (Torah, Prophets and Writings) therefore, the New Covenant writings must be confirmed by those same scriptures.

I solicit your prayers and encouragement in order to get this message out. Freely YHVH has given to us His Spirit and freely it must flow to others. We pray that what is happening to the bees will not happen to the redeemed remnant of Judah and Israel/Ephraim.

May Abba richly bless you as you seek first the Kingdom of YHVH and His righteousness in Messiah Yeshua (the Davar of YHVH).

Ephraim

PASSOVER AND OUR NATIONAL UNITY

2007-04-01T20:11:00.001+03:00

April 1, 2007

It is quite significant that it was at Passover time that YHVH declared Israel to be His firstborn nation; the only nation that would ever have this status before Him. Israel’s birth as a liberated nation came as a result of the death of a lamb, and its blood having been smeared on the doorposts of the homes. I hope this year we will consider the importance of our unity as YHVH’s redeemed firstborn nation, and what it means to be called an “Israelite”. Paul said that the feasts are but a shadow of things to come: May Abba grant us the ability to see beyond the shadows into the light of His redemptive work through the sacrifice of His lamb (Yeshua). The redemption of the firstborn (the nation of Abraham) means that the creation will be set free by a nation of the sons of YHVH, "saviors" who will come out of Zion and establish His kingdom, as it is written: "Then saviors shall come to Mount Zion to judge the mountains of Esau, and the kingdom shall be YHVH's" (Obadiah 1:21; and ref. Hosea 1:10).

It was over 3,800 years ago, when the Elohim of Jacob sent His family down to Egypt to preserve them. Speaking to His servant Jacob, He said: “I am YHVH, the Elohim of your father; do not fear to go down to Egypt, for I will make of you a great nation [goy] there’” (Genesis 46:3). One of the Hebrew words for “nation” is “goy”. It is first used in the Tanach, in the Covenant that YHVH made with our forefather Abraham, “I will make you a great nation [goy]; I will bless you, and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing” (Genesis 12:2). One man, one Elohim, one Covenant, one national identity; this was at the heart of YHVH’s plan for the redemption of the creation. The Elohim of Abraham set apart a man, and swore by His own name that his seed/sperm would become a great and holy (set-apart) nation.

When Jacob and his band of seventy souls arrived in Egypt, he found another family-member already down there. Joseph and his progeny had lost their identity and connection with their family of origin. Thus, Joseph's children were most likely uncircumcised when their grandfather adopted them, and in a sense formed a prophetic type of the lost tribes of Israel, that is the so called "Gentiles" or the vast company of nations that YHVH had promised to the forefathers. Paul discloses that this hidden company (treasure), in the nations, are those who have (even though uncircumcised) the "faith" of their forefather Abraham (ref Romans chapter 4). Moreover, in Egypt the Children of Jacob also multiplied profusely. This too was a prophetic picture, of a time in which their numerical increase would encompass the entire earth.

Jacob’s family, living in Egypt, eventually became slaves to the lords of the land. While in that state they lost their vision of being a nation, a family and a people with a purpose, and a Divine call. This is portrayed quite vividly in the scene of the two Hebrew slaves, who were fighting one another to their own demise (ref Exodus 2:13). The embittered seed of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob was now characterized by survival instincts. This was only natural, since they were living under extreme conditions, where their captors debased them into mere sub-human slaves. So where was this great nation that was promised to Abraham? His seed, now turned slaves, were cursing the day of their birth. They had become nothing more than dead dry bones in the desert sands of Egypt. So helpless were they that they could not even respond to Moses, when he came to them preaching the good news of their deliverance (ref. Exodus 6:9)!

The Passover story is replete with pestilence, famine and one disaster following another. But when gross darkness covered the land, there was still light in the tents of the Hebrews (ref. Ex.10:23), as the anointing of YHVH’s covenant word (which “is a light”, ref. Ps. 119:105) was still upon them to become a great nation. How was this going to be made possible? It certainly was not going to happen by the nation’s own strength. It was going to take a miracle, a Divine intervention. YHVH, therefore, dispatched a man with a message: “Let My people go”. Moses was faithful to bring that word to the ruler of the slaves, but YHVH hardened the heart of Pharaoh, just to make sure that His people would know that their deliverance was not going to come by the way or authority of man. Had Pharaoh given his permission, these Hebrews would have been forever indebted to their master. They would perpetually be looking to him as their deliverer, and thus would not be able to take up their divinely ordained position as the head of all the nations. In this manner, they would have been bound to Egypt.

YHVH had His plan of restoring these slaves to freedom and to their national identity. He told His servant Moses to, "speak to all the congregation of Israel, saying: `On the tenth day of this month every man shall take for himself a lamb, according to the house of his father, a lamb for a household. And if the household is too small for the lamb, let him and his neighbor next to his house take it according to the number of the persons; according to each man's need you shall make your count for the lamb. Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male of the first year. You may take it from the sheep or from the goats…. Pick out and take lambs for yourselves according to your families, and kill the Passover lamb….then you shall take a bunch of hyssop, dip it in the blood that is in the basin, and strike the lintel and the two doorposts with the blood that is in the basin. And none of you shall go out of the door of his house until morning…. Now the blood shall be a sign for you on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you; and the plague shall not be on you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt” (Exodus 12:3-5; 21-22; 13).

The moment the elders applied the blood to the lintels and the doorposts of the Hebrews’ homes, the latter were sealed into deliverance, freedom and destiny. But even beyond that - their dependency on man has just come to an end. They were now united behind the one sacrifice, totally dependent upon the powerful right arm of the Almighty to bring them out. “Let My people go!” YHVH had already announced to Egypt's rulers to whom these people belonged. This was a people that did not belong to itself. They were and still are today “My people, [“ami” -singular] says YHVH”. But now, through the blood of the lamb, they were set apart to enter into the next phase of His plan. “And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel" (Exodus 19:6).

Whereas harsh conditions and bondage reduce human beings to mere existence, effacing their individual uniqueness, affluence can also keep one in bondage to extreme individualism. Therefore, as we, Israelites (Ephraim and Judah), YHVH’s two families of His one People Israel, gather together to honor Him during this year’s Passover, let us leave our individualism and lift up the cup of unity. Remember that we all were once slaves to sin and death and bound to the principalities and powers of this world’s (kosmos) dominion. It behooves us to, “purge out therefore the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you are unleavened. For even Messiah our Passover is sacrificed for us. Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; (nor with strife, contention, bitterness and unforgiveness) but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth” (1 Cor. 5:7-8). May we walk together through the Door that is splattered with the blood of the Lamb, out of the houses of our bondage and into the liberty of the new corporate life of the “One New Man”. The wall of partition in the House of Jacob has been broken down, so let us serve one another in the nature of the new creation person (Yeshua) who is the embodiment of the Royal Priesthood and Holy Nation Israel, Elohim’s firstborn!

May you all be blessed during this Passover and Feast of Matzot (unleavened bread) with a sense of national unity! May the eyes of our hearts be opened anew to the fact that we are “My people Israel” in this generation.

Ephraim

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
It is like the precious oil upon the head, running down on the beard, the beard of Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments. It is like the dew of Hermon, descending upon the mountains of Zion; for there YHVH commanded the blessing--Life forevermore” (Ps. 133).