A few days ago we received a bulletin penned by some Charismatic leaders who were expressing a deep concern over what they believe is happening in Messianic circles. According to this report, some ‘Messianics’ have espoused teachings of righteousness via keeping the dietary laws (which unfortunately could be the case for some), and not according to faith in Messiah. The other heretical and (quote) “deceptive and dangerous teaching had to do with (supposedly) assigning natural Israelite heritage to African Americans”. The writers concluded that because of the gravity of these matters, they needed to be addressed and made public. One of their pronouncements concerning Messianics-so-engaged was that they are “enemies of the cross” (execution tree). This is not the first time I have heard this statement used. Some of you, who have been involved in the Charismatic movement, probably remember that in the early days of the revival, the main line churches were saying the same thing about speaking in tongues.
After reading this article, I started to ponder the above-mentioned assertion and asked myself, who or what makes one “an enemy of the cross”? What was most intriguing to me was, that the statement was taken from the same chapter that I had used in last week’s letter: “Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Messiah whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame----who set their mind on earthly things” (Phil 3:17-18).
Why is the Apostle pointing specifically to the execution tree of Messiah? Was it just because these teachers from the circumcision party were teaching aspects of Judaism, specifically righteousness through keeping laws of Torah, (see Phil 3:1-2), or was he alluding to something more fundamental about Messiah’s cross? I believe that he was addressing the issue of living in, walking by and putting confidence in the “flesh”, rather than glorying in the Messiah by walking in the Spirit. “For we are the circumcision, who worship YHVH in the Spirit, and rejoice in Messiah Yeshua, and have no confidence in the flesh…” (Philip. 3:3-4, see also last week’s letter). Paul writes extensively about “walking”, but it is mostly in reference to the flesh or, conversely, to the Spirit. “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…that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit” (Rom 8:1,4).
It seems that the party of the circumcision was also challenging the brethren in Galatia (Gal. 2:12). However, this time the issue was not “righteousness”, but “justification” through the works of the flesh and not through faith. “Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh? But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of YHVH is evident, for ‘the just shall live by faith’" (Gal. 3:3,11). Rav Shaul uses himself as the example to illustrate the problem with the flesh in his letter to the believers at Rome: “For when we were in the flesh, the sinful passions which were aroused by the law were at work in our members to bear fruit to death…For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find” (Rom. 7:5,18).
Romans chapter seven is very central to the understanding of the New Covenant revelation. If the Spirit of Truth (Yeshua), who now is our teacher, doesn’t reveal to our understanding what the Apostle is presenting to us, we will definitely become “enemies of the cross of Messiah”. What did YHVH accomplish on the cross? Yes, He reconciled the world (of man) to Himself, but He did it by forgiving man of his sin (rebellion – unbelief). How did He do that? He put the ‘man of flesh’ to death. “For the love of Messiah constrains us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then we are all dead” (2Cor. 5:14). “Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. For he who has died has been freed from sin. Now if we died with Messiah, we believe that we shall also live with Him” (Rom. 6:6-8). Please notice that the Apostle does not use the word “believing”, but “knowing”, which connotes an experiential reality of our death. If we “know” this but continue to “walk after the flesh”, I’m afraid that we are participating with the enemies of the cross of Messiah. Therefore, “set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Messiah in YHVH” (Col. 3:2-3). Here again Paul says that “you died” or “you have died”, emphasizing the past tense as a truth that is complete, finished and has been accomplished for us in Yeshua’s death.
"I have been crucified with Messiah; it is no longer I who live, but Messiah lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me” (Gal. 2:20). If our life is rooted in this aspect of the Gospel of the Kingdom, uncircumcision is just as useless as circumcision, as some think that being uncircumcised is a sign of a true Christian.
A number of years ago we were visiting some believers who wanted to find out if we were really ‘free from the Law’. They made pork sandwiches, the eating of which was to be the acid test to determine whether we were truly ‘brothers’ or perhaps posed a danger to their ‘freedom’. Back in the late 60’s and early 70’s Yeshua ‘came’ to a remnant of Christians from varying denominations, filled them with His holy presence and brought them together in fellowship. One of the traditions that they all had in common was the “sacrament of holy communion”. But guess what? The Catholics brought wine, and some of the Protestant brethren became very indignant over the alcoholic content, and so strife and contention arose in their midst. The Apostle had an answer for this kind of behavior: “For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal and behaving like [unregenerate] men?” (1 Cor.3: 3). Paul clearly defines the relationship between the flesh and the Spirit; they are aggressively opposed one to the other (see Gal. chapters 4 & 5).
As believers and ‘knowers’ of the “cross of Messiah” we must go back, look and listen carefully to Rav Shaul’s personal testimony recorded in Romans chapter 7. Even though he willed to do ‘good’, there was something at work in him even as a believer and an apostle. And even though this ‘something’ was not easy to deal with, we ourselves would do well to respond as he did: “Now if I do what I will not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me” (Rom 7:17, 20). Paul twice repeats, “It is no longer I”! Here is faith actively looking at the “death of the Messiah”. Shaul-Paul is saying, ‘it can’t be me, as I have died, therefore it is the power of sin working in the various components of my person.’ Personally I think that this was Paul’s “thorn in the flesh”, “lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure” (2 Cor 12:7). “But how shall I be delivered from this body of death? Thanks be to YHVH through Messiah Yeshua… therefore there is now no condemnation…!” (Rom 7:24-25; 8:1).
So who is really an enemy of the cross? “We judge thusly, that if One died for all, then all died; and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again. Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Messiah according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer” (2 Cor. 5:14-16). There are three enemies of the cross, the devil, the flesh and the world. Let us therefore wage war against our real enemies, and not against one another, nor against any man, otherwise we will be found collaborating with those who are the real enemies of the cross of Messiah. “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Eph 6:12).
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in MessiahYeshua, and in the power of his might.
Put on the whole armour of YHVH, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Eph. 6:10-11).
Wednesday, May 02, 2012
Monday, April 23, 2012
New Beginnings
Letter 180 (new beginnings) 09/05/03
In the letter that I wrote before Passover I mentioned that a new beginning seemed to be in the offing. Although I was not sure then what the nature of that new beginning would be, it is now becoming clearer and clearer that it has to do, yet again, with one more aspect of the Gospel of the Kingdom.
Twenty years ago, the Spirit brought a revelation of the faithfulness of the God of Israel to the covenant of multiplicity that He had made with our forefathers (see Gen 12:2; 13:16; 15:5; 17:2-6,16). This portion of the promise was to be fulfilled through Jacob’s son Ephraim (Gen. 48:19). While reading the blessing of Jacob to this adopted son (Ephraim), the revelation and understanding that came brought me into the knowledge of my own Hebraic ancestry. My soul responded as it did the day I was saved, ten years prior. I wept for joy and my heart was glad as from wine, just as the prophets foretold (see Zech. 10:7). In the course of these years many questions were answered, while I was making more and more discoveries about the importance of this identity restoration.
Various facets of the Two House teaching, the importance of our identity as First Born and our unity in the restored House of Jacob continued to occupy my time and energy. However, I repeatedly prayed not to get caught up in a single revelation, but to always be fed with “present truth”, as Peter put it (2 Peter 1:12). I believe YHVH has now answered my prayer, and a new beginning has been launched for me with what may be a shift from the “depth”(the earthy or natural) to the “height” (the life in Messiah) of Gospel reality.
As the Spirit continues to bring the revelation of redemption to light through the Torah and the Prophets many are waking up to their identity and to what it entails, and are forming organizations, assemblies, synagogues, house-groups etc. to promote this wonderful message. However, in spite of the blessing which is inherent in this knowledge, strife, contention, bickering and disputes, typical of our ancestral heritage, seem to be all too rife in the family. The hand of fellowship, which is being offered by those who are beginning to repent, often ends up being slapped and then rejection sets into an already wounded ‘Abrahamic’ soul. This has been a very painful subject, and one that we, and others, have travailed over in prayer. But as I stated above, YHVH set in order a new beginning, and thus, as exciting and important as YHVH’s plan for the redemption of the “old” creation is, it must not cast a shadow upon the glory of the “new creation” life in Messiah Yeshua.
Paul the Apostle was adamant about the difference between the natural and the spiritual realms. He describes his illustrious past as a zealous religious Jew, who was circumcised on the 8th day, was of the nation of Israel, even knew his tribal identity as a Benjaminite, was a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the Torah, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the Ecclesia, as to righteousness which is in the law, was found blameless (ref. Phil. 3:5-6). But these words are immediately followed by the statement: “What things were gain to me, [the above list] these I have counted loss for sake of knowing Yeshua the Messiah…,” (Phil. 3:7-8). This was the punch line that put a crunch on my rediscovered Ephraimite heritage.
Paul was not afraid to admit weaknesses: He was a proud and zealous rabbi who persecuted the early believers and had them imprisoned, flogged and stoned to death, but one day, in the midst of these pursuits, he was ‘knocked off his high horse’ by Yeshua. His world was turned up side down and instead of persecuting the believers in Yeshua he now became one himself. He learnt what it meant to suffer for Yehsua’s sake, and so tells us about his experiences: Beatings (5 times, 39 lashes each time), stoning (3 times), hard labors, imprisonments, beaten with rods, shipwrecked, a night and a day in the deep, meeting up with robbers, beasts in the wilderness, being persecuted by his own countrymen because of his faith, at times he was without food, clothing or water, and suffered from cold and many other hardships (ref. 2 Cor. 11:22-27). However, through all of his troubles Paul’s zeal for introducing “present truth” to the body of believers never waned. He knew that the foolish boasting of all his woes would not, in itself, be profitable as a testimony (2 Cor. 11:21) and that only the quest of knowing Messiah Yeshua, through visions and revelations of His divine life within him, would suffice (ref. 2 Cor. 12:1).
The following words of Rabbi Saul of Tarsus spoke deeply into my heart: “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 Lord, 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 God 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. Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Messiah Yeshua has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Messiah Yeshua. Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in any thing you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule; let us be of the same mind” (ref. Phil. 3:7-15).
This must become our first priority too, as without this principal ‘ingredient’ nothing else is of any worth or substance, nor will it find fulfillment. It was the Father’s good pleasure to glorify His Son in and through a People that He called out of the loins of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In this generation we are this People; apprehended and chosen to overcome and destroy the works of the enemy (“principalities and powers in heavenly places”, Eph. 6:12), and to bring to light the glory of the New Covenant Gospel.
In the letter that I wrote before Passover I mentioned that a new beginning seemed to be in the offing. Although I was not sure then what the nature of that new beginning would be, it is now becoming clearer and clearer that it has to do, yet again, with one more aspect of the Gospel of the Kingdom.
Twenty years ago, the Spirit brought a revelation of the faithfulness of the God of Israel to the covenant of multiplicity that He had made with our forefathers (see Gen 12:2; 13:16; 15:5; 17:2-6,16). This portion of the promise was to be fulfilled through Jacob’s son Ephraim (Gen. 48:19). While reading the blessing of Jacob to this adopted son (Ephraim), the revelation and understanding that came brought me into the knowledge of my own Hebraic ancestry. My soul responded as it did the day I was saved, ten years prior. I wept for joy and my heart was glad as from wine, just as the prophets foretold (see Zech. 10:7). In the course of these years many questions were answered, while I was making more and more discoveries about the importance of this identity restoration.
Various facets of the Two House teaching, the importance of our identity as First Born and our unity in the restored House of Jacob continued to occupy my time and energy. However, I repeatedly prayed not to get caught up in a single revelation, but to always be fed with “present truth”, as Peter put it (2 Peter 1:12). I believe YHVH has now answered my prayer, and a new beginning has been launched for me with what may be a shift from the “depth”(the earthy or natural) to the “height” (the life in Messiah) of Gospel reality.
As the Spirit continues to bring the revelation of redemption to light through the Torah and the Prophets many are waking up to their identity and to what it entails, and are forming organizations, assemblies, synagogues, house-groups etc. to promote this wonderful message. However, in spite of the blessing which is inherent in this knowledge, strife, contention, bickering and disputes, typical of our ancestral heritage, seem to be all too rife in the family. The hand of fellowship, which is being offered by those who are beginning to repent, often ends up being slapped and then rejection sets into an already wounded ‘Abrahamic’ soul. This has been a very painful subject, and one that we, and others, have travailed over in prayer. But as I stated above, YHVH set in order a new beginning, and thus, as exciting and important as YHVH’s plan for the redemption of the “old” creation is, it must not cast a shadow upon the glory of the “new creation” life in Messiah Yeshua.
Paul the Apostle was adamant about the difference between the natural and the spiritual realms. He describes his illustrious past as a zealous religious Jew, who was circumcised on the 8th day, was of the nation of Israel, even knew his tribal identity as a Benjaminite, was a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the Torah, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the Ecclesia, as to righteousness which is in the law, was found blameless (ref. Phil. 3:5-6). But these words are immediately followed by the statement: “What things were gain to me, [the above list] these I have counted loss for sake of knowing Yeshua the Messiah…,” (Phil. 3:7-8). This was the punch line that put a crunch on my rediscovered Ephraimite heritage.
Paul was not afraid to admit weaknesses: He was a proud and zealous rabbi who persecuted the early believers and had them imprisoned, flogged and stoned to death, but one day, in the midst of these pursuits, he was ‘knocked off his high horse’ by Yeshua. His world was turned up side down and instead of persecuting the believers in Yeshua he now became one himself. He learnt what it meant to suffer for Yehsua’s sake, and so tells us about his experiences: Beatings (5 times, 39 lashes each time), stoning (3 times), hard labors, imprisonments, beaten with rods, shipwrecked, a night and a day in the deep, meeting up with robbers, beasts in the wilderness, being persecuted by his own countrymen because of his faith, at times he was without food, clothing or water, and suffered from cold and many other hardships (ref. 2 Cor. 11:22-27). However, through all of his troubles Paul’s zeal for introducing “present truth” to the body of believers never waned. He knew that the foolish boasting of all his woes would not, in itself, be profitable as a testimony (2 Cor. 11:21) and that only the quest of knowing Messiah Yeshua, through visions and revelations of His divine life within him, would suffice (ref. 2 Cor. 12:1).
The following words of Rabbi Saul of Tarsus spoke deeply into my heart: “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 Lord, 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 God 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. Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Messiah Yeshua has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Messiah Yeshua. Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in any thing you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule; let us be of the same mind” (ref. Phil. 3:7-15).
This must become our first priority too, as without this principal ‘ingredient’ nothing else is of any worth or substance, nor will it find fulfillment. It was the Father’s good pleasure to glorify His Son in and through a People that He called out of the loins of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In this generation we are this People; apprehended and chosen to overcome and destroy the works of the enemy (“principalities and powers in heavenly places”, Eph. 6:12), and to bring to light the glory of the New Covenant Gospel.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Two Kingdoms
In looking at the world we live in from a spiritual perspective, we must acknowledge that there are only two spiritual kingdoms that - from this standpoint - are evident: the kingdom of God in the hearts of a redeemed remnant, and Satan’s kingdom working through the hearts and minds of unregenerate man and which, I might add, also influences the redeemed.
Satan governs His kingdom through principalities and powers in heavenly places (Eph. 6:12). The scriptures point out two of those princes: the prince of Persia and the prince of Greece. When YHVH wanted to bring back to the Land a remnant of Jews (from the house of Judah and Levi), who were in exile in Babylon, two of Satan’s most powerful princes stood up to oppose this move. And so we read in Daniel 10:13: "But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left alone there with the kings of Persia.” Further, in Daniel 10:20 it says: “Then he [Michael, YHVH’s chief prince] said, ‘Do you know why I have come to you? And now I must return to fight with the prince of Persia; and when I have gone forth, indeed the prince of Greece will come.’”
As we know, Satan’s kingdom is a counterfeit of YHVH’s, and thus he too has kingly and priestly positions in his hierarchal system with two princes who fulfill those two roles at the highest spiritual level. The prince of Greece governs the political realm, and the prince of Persia the priestly one. In the days of Nimrod Satan set up his counterfeit kingdom in the family of man, and used Nimrod to build the city of Babel as the first expression of his nature (rebellion and self worship, ref. Gen 10:10; 11:3-4). Not surprisingly Nimrod’s name means, “we will rebel”. Because of iniquity and sin YHVH never allows these two orders (the priestly and kingly) to remain together, therefore when He judged Nimrod’s kingdom He by necessity divided it. The priestly or religious office stayed in the region of Babylon, in the Valley of Shinar, under the control of the prince of Persia, but the political portion went with Javan and sons to the area that today we call Greece. Just to note some scriptural evidence of this fact: One of Javan’s sons’ (Nimrod’s cousin) was Rhodanim, whose name stems from the root r.d.h. meaning “rule or dominion” (Gen. 1:26). The Island of Rhodes gets its name from this son and has a very interesting history. One of the Seven Wonders of the World was situated there; the Colossus, which was a giant statue of Helios the sun god.
During this time period in the history of the manifestation of Satan’s kingdom, the Greek beast (the leopard with the four heads) was brought to power. One of the heads of that beast was the political head - “democracy”. This was the head (one of four) that was to be wounded “like unto death”, but destined in latter days to be “healed”. All seven heads of the four beasts are described in Revelation 13:2-3: “And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority. And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.”
According to Rev.2: 12-13, Satan’s seat is in Pergamum (or at least around its spiritual environs), which is in northern Turkey, north of the Land of Israel. Apparently Satan sits in the heavenlies and looks down upon the Land of Israel with his two princes; the prince of Greece on his right, and the prince of Persia on his left. Lucifer knows that one day YHVH is going to unite the two houses of Israel and restore His kingdom order to the House of Jacob, and that the kingly/priestly office of the Melchesedic order will again be made manifest through them in the Land, forming one nation and one kingdom. However, YHVH will permit Satan to have his day, by allowing him to bring together the two offices of his kingdom.
If the political system of democracy is the kingly portion of the beast, and if Islam were its priestly expression, we would suspect that eventually those two will somehow work together to accomplish Satan’s plan. Actually, examining the results of the three wars that were fought in less than a decade for the cause of democracy (which was imposed on autocratic governments) – in Bosnia, Kossovo and Iraq - will verify Islam’s victory. In Iraq the Shiites, who are the most fundamental and radical of Islam’s two main sects, came out on top, and being a majority in a (future) democratic system will guarantee their political and religious supremacy in that area. Notice that the coalition’s military made sure that no mosques and Islamic holy places were destroyed or harmed (except in instances when the forces were fired upon). Additionally, if we look at the looming “peace” process in Israel, we cannot help but sense that Israel is going to be the scapegoat in future negotiations with the Palestinians and the Syrians. Although President Bush balked when Tony Blair insisted that the Quartet’s “road map” to peace in this area be a pre-condition to coalition cooperation in the war with Iraq, he did ultimately concede. Syria also has been placed on notice to stop cooperating with terrorist groups and leftovers of the Saddam regime. If Syria plays ball with the Quartet, “democracy” will make sure that the Golan Heights be returned as a good will gesture.
What is really behind all these wars and so called peace negotiations? What motivates Islam to rule the world and to be seen as the one religious system that can bring true justice to this earth? What will happen if Islam adopts democracy or some form of it, with Islamic law governing the judiciary? Is this what Satan is looking to accomplish in order to bring the two offices together? Will YHVH allow it to happen at this time? Could this be why the United Nations is so intent on establishing a “democratic Islamic Palestinian state” in the heartland of Israel with East Jerusalem (the Old City) as its capital?
What is it about democracy and Islam that challenges YHVH’s original plan for Israel, His chosen nation? What did Mohamed steal from the Torah to make Islam a viable competitor in this conflict?
Ephraim 25/04/2003
Satan governs His kingdom through principalities and powers in heavenly places (Eph. 6:12). The scriptures point out two of those princes: the prince of Persia and the prince of Greece. When YHVH wanted to bring back to the Land a remnant of Jews (from the house of Judah and Levi), who were in exile in Babylon, two of Satan’s most powerful princes stood up to oppose this move. And so we read in Daniel 10:13: "But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left alone there with the kings of Persia.” Further, in Daniel 10:20 it says: “Then he [Michael, YHVH’s chief prince] said, ‘Do you know why I have come to you? And now I must return to fight with the prince of Persia; and when I have gone forth, indeed the prince of Greece will come.’”
As we know, Satan’s kingdom is a counterfeit of YHVH’s, and thus he too has kingly and priestly positions in his hierarchal system with two princes who fulfill those two roles at the highest spiritual level. The prince of Greece governs the political realm, and the prince of Persia the priestly one. In the days of Nimrod Satan set up his counterfeit kingdom in the family of man, and used Nimrod to build the city of Babel as the first expression of his nature (rebellion and self worship, ref. Gen 10:10; 11:3-4). Not surprisingly Nimrod’s name means, “we will rebel”. Because of iniquity and sin YHVH never allows these two orders (the priestly and kingly) to remain together, therefore when He judged Nimrod’s kingdom He by necessity divided it. The priestly or religious office stayed in the region of Babylon, in the Valley of Shinar, under the control of the prince of Persia, but the political portion went with Javan and sons to the area that today we call Greece. Just to note some scriptural evidence of this fact: One of Javan’s sons’ (Nimrod’s cousin) was Rhodanim, whose name stems from the root r.d.h. meaning “rule or dominion” (Gen. 1:26). The Island of Rhodes gets its name from this son and has a very interesting history. One of the Seven Wonders of the World was situated there; the Colossus, which was a giant statue of Helios the sun god.
During this time period in the history of the manifestation of Satan’s kingdom, the Greek beast (the leopard with the four heads) was brought to power. One of the heads of that beast was the political head - “democracy”. This was the head (one of four) that was to be wounded “like unto death”, but destined in latter days to be “healed”. All seven heads of the four beasts are described in Revelation 13:2-3: “And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority. And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.”
According to Rev.2: 12-13, Satan’s seat is in Pergamum (or at least around its spiritual environs), which is in northern Turkey, north of the Land of Israel. Apparently Satan sits in the heavenlies and looks down upon the Land of Israel with his two princes; the prince of Greece on his right, and the prince of Persia on his left. Lucifer knows that one day YHVH is going to unite the two houses of Israel and restore His kingdom order to the House of Jacob, and that the kingly/priestly office of the Melchesedic order will again be made manifest through them in the Land, forming one nation and one kingdom. However, YHVH will permit Satan to have his day, by allowing him to bring together the two offices of his kingdom.
If the political system of democracy is the kingly portion of the beast, and if Islam were its priestly expression, we would suspect that eventually those two will somehow work together to accomplish Satan’s plan. Actually, examining the results of the three wars that were fought in less than a decade for the cause of democracy (which was imposed on autocratic governments) – in Bosnia, Kossovo and Iraq - will verify Islam’s victory. In Iraq the Shiites, who are the most fundamental and radical of Islam’s two main sects, came out on top, and being a majority in a (future) democratic system will guarantee their political and religious supremacy in that area. Notice that the coalition’s military made sure that no mosques and Islamic holy places were destroyed or harmed (except in instances when the forces were fired upon). Additionally, if we look at the looming “peace” process in Israel, we cannot help but sense that Israel is going to be the scapegoat in future negotiations with the Palestinians and the Syrians. Although President Bush balked when Tony Blair insisted that the Quartet’s “road map” to peace in this area be a pre-condition to coalition cooperation in the war with Iraq, he did ultimately concede. Syria also has been placed on notice to stop cooperating with terrorist groups and leftovers of the Saddam regime. If Syria plays ball with the Quartet, “democracy” will make sure that the Golan Heights be returned as a good will gesture.
What is really behind all these wars and so called peace negotiations? What motivates Islam to rule the world and to be seen as the one religious system that can bring true justice to this earth? What will happen if Islam adopts democracy or some form of it, with Islamic law governing the judiciary? Is this what Satan is looking to accomplish in order to bring the two offices together? Will YHVH allow it to happen at this time? Could this be why the United Nations is so intent on establishing a “democratic Islamic Palestinian state” in the heartland of Israel with East Jerusalem (the Old City) as its capital?
What is it about democracy and Islam that challenges YHVH’s original plan for Israel, His chosen nation? What did Mohamed steal from the Torah to make Islam a viable competitor in this conflict?
Ephraim 25/04/2003
Friday, March 23, 2012
Ram and Goat
21/03/03
As the U.S. and some of her allies are poised for war, some thoughts have come to mind regarding this present situation here in the Middle East. One cannot help but think particularly about the book of Daniel and end time prophecy. In a sermon given by a brother from the German Christian kibbutz in Northern Israel, a very interesting interpretation of Daniel chapter 8 was offered. This particular chapter presents an intriguing scenario of historical events that have actually been fulfilled (ref. v. 20-21). However, history does have a tendency to repeat itself. The brother pointed out that in verse 17 it says, “understand, son of man, that the vision refers to the time of the end” (Dan. 8:17). Thus, the ram with the two horns, that back then represented the Mede- Persian kings, is now representing the area that they had dominated, and is therefore symbolic of Islam which has taken over that region. The two horns seem to be more specifically Iraq and Iran, or the two main factions of Islam: the Sunnis and Shiites.
The ram was defeated by a goat, which came from the west (v. 5). The goat had one large horn and attacked the ram ferociously, trampling it to the earth and in the process broke off its two horns. In the days of the Mede-Persian Empire the goat represented Greece. Presently it does not take too much analysis to figure out that the western world and its super power (the U.S.) is under the influence of the ‘beast’ of ancient Greece. One only needs to look at its form of government of democracy, or at its Hellenistic mindset, which is seen in every aspect of western culture. The interesting thing about this goat is that its feet did not touch the ground as it went over to attack the ram. “Suddenly a male goat came from the west, across the surface of the whole earth, without touching the ground” (Dan. 8:5). Could that be symbolic of the American and British air forces? The American army’s mascot just happens to be a goat. Thus the goat comes against the ram (Islam) through the air. We may not see yet the full extent of the conflict between the ram and the goat, but if indeed it is portrayed by this vision of Daniel, the one large horn (the American-British alliance) will ultimately be broken and four other horns – entities – will arise in its place. This could mean that the western world will divide into four main areas. Already there is a “quartet” that is mentioned often, at least here in Israel, in relationship to the so-called “roadmap” plan for negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, and its ultimate aim of securing a “safe Israel” and a “peaceful and democratic Palestinian state”. The “quartet” consists of the U.S., the European Union, the United Nations, and Russia.
I’m not going to venture into the rest of Daniel 8, but the Spirit of YHVH will unveil all these end time prophecies, as He Himself brings them to pass. Meanwhile everyone in Israel is counting down the hours and minutes to the start of the invasion to oust Saddam Hussein. May YHVH’s judgments be overridden by His tender mercies.
In light of the situation, this is being sent in place of the Friday letter. We trust that you will all have peace from the Prince of Peace, regardless of the outcome of the war.
21/03/03
As the U.S. and some of her allies are poised for war, some thoughts have come to mind regarding this present situation here in the Middle East. One cannot help but think particularly about the book of Daniel and end time prophecy. In a sermon given by a brother from the German Christian kibbutz in Northern Israel, a very interesting interpretation of Daniel chapter 8 was offered. This particular chapter presents an intriguing scenario of historical events that have actually been fulfilled (ref. v. 20-21). However, history does have a tendency to repeat itself. The brother pointed out that in verse 17 it says, “understand, son of man, that the vision refers to the time of the end” (Dan. 8:17). Thus, the ram with the two horns, that back then represented the Mede- Persian kings, is now representing the area that they had dominated, and is therefore symbolic of Islam which has taken over that region. The two horns seem to be more specifically Iraq and Iran, or the two main factions of Islam: the Sunnis and Shiites.
The ram was defeated by a goat, which came from the west (v. 5). The goat had one large horn and attacked the ram ferociously, trampling it to the earth and in the process broke off its two horns. In the days of the Mede-Persian Empire the goat represented Greece. Presently it does not take too much analysis to figure out that the western world and its super power (the U.S.) is under the influence of the ‘beast’ of ancient Greece. One only needs to look at its form of government of democracy, or at its Hellenistic mindset, which is seen in every aspect of western culture. The interesting thing about this goat is that its feet did not touch the ground as it went over to attack the ram. “Suddenly a male goat came from the west, across the surface of the whole earth, without touching the ground” (Dan. 8:5). Could that be symbolic of the American and British air forces? The American army’s mascot just happens to be a goat. Thus the goat comes against the ram (Islam) through the air. We may not see yet the full extent of the conflict between the ram and the goat, but if indeed it is portrayed by this vision of Daniel, the one large horn (the American-British alliance) will ultimately be broken and four other horns – entities – will arise in its place. This could mean that the western world will divide into four main areas. Already there is a “quartet” that is mentioned often, at least here in Israel, in relationship to the so-called “roadmap” plan for negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, and its ultimate aim of securing a “safe Israel” and a “peaceful and democratic Palestinian state”. The “quartet” consists of the U.S., the European Union, the United Nations, and Russia.
I’m not going to venture into the rest of Daniel 8, but the Spirit of YHVH will unveil all these end time prophecies, as He Himself brings them to pass. Meanwhile everyone in Israel is counting down the hours and minutes to the start of the invasion to oust Saddam Hussein. May YHVH’s judgments be overridden by His tender mercies.
In light of the situation, this is being sent in place of the Friday letter. We trust that you will all have peace from the Prince of Peace, regardless of the outcome of the war.
21/03/03
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
The prodigal son
14/03/03
I am sure we all are familiar with Yeshua’s story of the prodigal son as recorded in Luke 15:11-32. If you will bear with me, I would like to relate this story somewhat differently.
Once upon a time there was a God-fearing man named Ya’acov, who had two wives and twelve sons. One day the two firstborn, Yehuda, the eldest of the unloved wife Leah, and Yoseph-Ephraim, although younger also a firstborn, of the beloved wife Rachel, came to their father and asked for their portions of the birthright. Ya’acov was a little reluctant to grant them their respective portions at that point, as they both were still quite immature and neither had really proven himself worthy of the honor, but because he loved them he eventually gave in to their wishes. Yoseph-Ephraim, however, was not happy with the arrangement and became jealous of Yehuda who, because of seniority, had leadership and more power and prestige in the family. Little by little Yoseph-Ephraim’s jealousy led to an open rebellion against the ways of his father’s house. He started to live only for himself, and desired the customs of the foreigners. His waywardness ultimately drove him further and further from the righteous ways of his father’s God and his family.
Yoseph-Ephraim decided to sell off all that he had, pack his bags and leave home for bigger and better things. Having received a goodly sum of money from his portion of the inheritance, he had the means to live it up, but after a few years of moving from place to place his life began to go downhill. He had to work to earn a living, and the pay he was offered was very scanty. Additionally, his addictions to alcohol, drugs, and sex had drained him of his youthful strength and resources. Finally things got so bad that a pig farmer took pity on him, and had him feed his herd. One day, while wallowing in the sty, he thought to himself that the pigs’ food was a delicacy compared to the leftovers he had been getting.
Yoseph-Ephraim had completely lost his perspective on life. After so many years he could hardly remember who he was and where he had come from. But when things really hit rock bottom, he suddenly had a dim recollection of his previous identity. It dawned on him that his father’s servants’ lot was much better than his present circumstances. He knew he was not worthy of being reinstated as a son in his family, but he was determined to ask his father’s forgiveness and see if he could work as a servant.
The journey back home was not an easy one, as he had to travel the same way that he came. He now had to face all the previous temptations, and turn away from the way of life that he had been accustomed to. Yoseph-Ephraim was a broken man, who was humbled through life circumstances; there was no other way for him, but to repent and return as a servant to his father’s house! Yoseph-Ephraim did not know of course whether his father was still alive, or whether he would even allow him to come anywhere near his property. However, nothing seemed to matter to him, except this faint glimmer of hope that he might be able to live under his father’s care once more.
The surroundings began to look more and more familiar to the returnee, as he drew closer and closer to home. Finally the house was in view, but his strength was almost completely drained. Weak-kneed, thirsty and hungry he staggered down the road. Suddenly, as if out of nowhere, his father was embracing him, with tears rolling down his face he was sobbing, whispering in his ears, “my son, my son, my son”. Yoseph Ephraim’s emaciated body was now under-girded by his father’s love. Two of Ya’acov’s servants lifted him and carried him back to the house. All the way down the road Yoseph-Ephraim could hear his father singing, “Ephraim, Ephraim my dear son, you were lost and now are found, you were dead but now you are alive, Oh Yoseph-Ephraim, my beloved.”
Ya’acov ordered his servants to prepare the best of all his calves for a festive celebration. Some went out to buy the most expensive and ornate of all garments for Yoseph-Ephraim. However, when Ya’acov put a very costly gold ring on his son’s finger, Yehuda could contain his anger no longer and lashed out at his father: “How can you do this? Yoseph-Ephraim is just as worthless as he was when he left. I have served you all these years, being faithful in all the duties of your household and you never once gave me such a party, let alone a gold ring! I bore your name and fought your battles against our enemies. I was even taken captive, tortured and almost killed! But what did I get out of it, but these scars and bitter wounds while this brother of mine squandered your wealth and was living it up with prostitutes and sinners!” Ya’acov tried to console Yehuda, reminding him that all that he had was his, and that Yoseph-Ephraim, who was buried in the tomb of humiliation, had risen from that grave of disgrace and had returned home. But because of what seemed to him so totally unjust, Yehuda could not accept or comprehend his father’s merciful ways and refused to come to the celebration.
Yoseph-Ephraim found it very difficult living under the shadow of his father’s comforting love and unconditional favor, while his brother’s envy and jealousy raged about him. Every day the burden to love his brother as his father loved him pressed on his heart like a giant rock. He thought that giving his brother gifts and displaying willingness to serve him would break through these barriers, but nothing was good enough.
What would it take to bring the two of them back together again as one in the family of Ya’acov? One day Yoseph-Ephraim remembered something that his father had taught them while they were still very young: “No greater love has a man than to give up his life for his brother.” He knew that this was the answer to the problem, but how does one give up his life for one’s brother? Can it be done, and if so how??? Perhaps the answer lies in the mighty right-hand of YHVH, Elohey Israel…
14/03/03
I am sure we all are familiar with Yeshua’s story of the prodigal son as recorded in Luke 15:11-32. If you will bear with me, I would like to relate this story somewhat differently.
Once upon a time there was a God-fearing man named Ya’acov, who had two wives and twelve sons. One day the two firstborn, Yehuda, the eldest of the unloved wife Leah, and Yoseph-Ephraim, although younger also a firstborn, of the beloved wife Rachel, came to their father and asked for their portions of the birthright. Ya’acov was a little reluctant to grant them their respective portions at that point, as they both were still quite immature and neither had really proven himself worthy of the honor, but because he loved them he eventually gave in to their wishes. Yoseph-Ephraim, however, was not happy with the arrangement and became jealous of Yehuda who, because of seniority, had leadership and more power and prestige in the family. Little by little Yoseph-Ephraim’s jealousy led to an open rebellion against the ways of his father’s house. He started to live only for himself, and desired the customs of the foreigners. His waywardness ultimately drove him further and further from the righteous ways of his father’s God and his family.
Yoseph-Ephraim decided to sell off all that he had, pack his bags and leave home for bigger and better things. Having received a goodly sum of money from his portion of the inheritance, he had the means to live it up, but after a few years of moving from place to place his life began to go downhill. He had to work to earn a living, and the pay he was offered was very scanty. Additionally, his addictions to alcohol, drugs, and sex had drained him of his youthful strength and resources. Finally things got so bad that a pig farmer took pity on him, and had him feed his herd. One day, while wallowing in the sty, he thought to himself that the pigs’ food was a delicacy compared to the leftovers he had been getting.
Yoseph-Ephraim had completely lost his perspective on life. After so many years he could hardly remember who he was and where he had come from. But when things really hit rock bottom, he suddenly had a dim recollection of his previous identity. It dawned on him that his father’s servants’ lot was much better than his present circumstances. He knew he was not worthy of being reinstated as a son in his family, but he was determined to ask his father’s forgiveness and see if he could work as a servant.
The journey back home was not an easy one, as he had to travel the same way that he came. He now had to face all the previous temptations, and turn away from the way of life that he had been accustomed to. Yoseph-Ephraim was a broken man, who was humbled through life circumstances; there was no other way for him, but to repent and return as a servant to his father’s house! Yoseph-Ephraim did not know of course whether his father was still alive, or whether he would even allow him to come anywhere near his property. However, nothing seemed to matter to him, except this faint glimmer of hope that he might be able to live under his father’s care once more.
The surroundings began to look more and more familiar to the returnee, as he drew closer and closer to home. Finally the house was in view, but his strength was almost completely drained. Weak-kneed, thirsty and hungry he staggered down the road. Suddenly, as if out of nowhere, his father was embracing him, with tears rolling down his face he was sobbing, whispering in his ears, “my son, my son, my son”. Yoseph Ephraim’s emaciated body was now under-girded by his father’s love. Two of Ya’acov’s servants lifted him and carried him back to the house. All the way down the road Yoseph-Ephraim could hear his father singing, “Ephraim, Ephraim my dear son, you were lost and now are found, you were dead but now you are alive, Oh Yoseph-Ephraim, my beloved.”
Ya’acov ordered his servants to prepare the best of all his calves for a festive celebration. Some went out to buy the most expensive and ornate of all garments for Yoseph-Ephraim. However, when Ya’acov put a very costly gold ring on his son’s finger, Yehuda could contain his anger no longer and lashed out at his father: “How can you do this? Yoseph-Ephraim is just as worthless as he was when he left. I have served you all these years, being faithful in all the duties of your household and you never once gave me such a party, let alone a gold ring! I bore your name and fought your battles against our enemies. I was even taken captive, tortured and almost killed! But what did I get out of it, but these scars and bitter wounds while this brother of mine squandered your wealth and was living it up with prostitutes and sinners!” Ya’acov tried to console Yehuda, reminding him that all that he had was his, and that Yoseph-Ephraim, who was buried in the tomb of humiliation, had risen from that grave of disgrace and had returned home. But because of what seemed to him so totally unjust, Yehuda could not accept or comprehend his father’s merciful ways and refused to come to the celebration.
Yoseph-Ephraim found it very difficult living under the shadow of his father’s comforting love and unconditional favor, while his brother’s envy and jealousy raged about him. Every day the burden to love his brother as his father loved him pressed on his heart like a giant rock. He thought that giving his brother gifts and displaying willingness to serve him would break through these barriers, but nothing was good enough.
What would it take to bring the two of them back together again as one in the family of Ya’acov? One day Yoseph-Ephraim remembered something that his father had taught them while they were still very young: “No greater love has a man than to give up his life for his brother.” He knew that this was the answer to the problem, but how does one give up his life for one’s brother? Can it be done, and if so how??? Perhaps the answer lies in the mighty right-hand of YHVH, Elohey Israel…
14/03/03
Thursday, March 08, 2012
Wisdom
There is a saying here in the land, “it is better to be wise than right”. I have been pondering that thought for sometime, and have been trying to understand what it really means. In the dictionary I found that the definition for “wisdom” is a little obscure: “Understanding of what is true, right, or lasting; Common sense, good judgment, scholarly learning, knowledge” (American Heritage Dictionary). Although this sounds like a legitimate enough definition, when checking the Scriptures for the Hebraic viewpoint, I have found, in some cases, wisdom listed first and separate from understanding and knowledge. In reference to the craftsmen building the Mishkan, it says: "He [YHVH] has filled him with the Spirit of Elohim, in wisdom and understanding, in knowledge and all manner of workmanship” (Ex. 35:31). YHVH bestowed wisdom on those whom He called to build His house, whether it was in the days of Moses, Solomon or Nehemiah.
The Scriptures say “Behold, the fear of YHVH, that is wisdom” (Job 28:28). In Job 28:28 and Psalm 111:10 it is written: “The fear of YHVH is wisdom, even the beginning of wisdom”. Why is awe or reverence (fear) of YHVH the beginning of wisdom? James gives us a clue in his writings: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). In Proverbs 2:6, even the answer is more direct. “For YHVH gives wisdom”.
If wisdom were a virtue Paul the apostle would have listed it as one of the “fruit of the Spirit” (see Gal. 5:22-23) that grows in us as we mature. However, we must conclude that for wisdom that is “from above” one has to approach YHVH. The proud will receive nothing from Him, but those who will walk humbly, in reverence and awe of Him, those He will answer. “ He [YHVH] regards the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar” (Psalms 138:6). Both James and Peter write, "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5). Thus our hearts have to be right before YHVH when we approach Him for this wisdom.
The Scriptures often personify Wisdom. “Wisdom calls aloud outside; she raises her voice in the open squares” (Proverbs 1:20). “Wisdom has built her house, She has hewn out her seven pillars” (Proverbs 9:1). But in no place in the Word is it made more clear than when the Father’s wisdom was made manifest in His Son, who is “Wisdom” in His very person (1 Cor. 1:24). We get a good glimpse of the true nature of the Father when Yeshua took off His outer garments (the traditional Jewish dress of the day), girded himself with a servant’s towel and washed the feet of His disciples. The Scriptures say that Yeshua knew that the Father had given all things into His hands, He also knew where He came from and where He was going when He performed this act (see John 13:3-4). However, that was not the end of His testimony, nor of His demonstration of the knowledge of who He was, where He had come from and where He was going. In his letter to the Philippians Paul encapsulates it best: “And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death on the tree” (Philippians 2:8). Again, when the time came to manifest the wisdom of His Father, Yeshua hung naked on the execution tree. He did not need outer garments to remind Him of who He was - “the lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29,36; 1 Peter 1:19; Revelation 5:6).
During His ministry on earth Yeshua not only taught the principles about His Father’s kingdom, but in His very nature also exemplified the “Torah written on the heart”. Being the king and high priest “after the order of Melchizedec”, He laid down His life for the People of Israel. Our Messiah said that whoever exalts himself will be humbled, but that he who humbles himself will be exalted. (Matthew 23:12; Luke 14:11, 18:14). “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the land” (Matthew 5:5). “Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name” (Philippians 2:9). "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing" (Rev. 5:12)!
If it is YHVH who holds the key to our wisdom, then perhaps we should pray along with Paul and James: “We pray YHVH that You, the Elohim of our Master Yeshua the Messiah, the Father of glory, may give us the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Yourself”(Eph. 1:17), “and that we may be filled with this knowledge of Your will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding” (Col. 1:9), “especially the wisdom that is from You Abba, which is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.” Amen.
07/03/2003
The Scriptures say “Behold, the fear of YHVH, that is wisdom” (Job 28:28). In Job 28:28 and Psalm 111:10 it is written: “The fear of YHVH is wisdom, even the beginning of wisdom”. Why is awe or reverence (fear) of YHVH the beginning of wisdom? James gives us a clue in his writings: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). In Proverbs 2:6, even the answer is more direct. “For YHVH gives wisdom”.
If wisdom were a virtue Paul the apostle would have listed it as one of the “fruit of the Spirit” (see Gal. 5:22-23) that grows in us as we mature. However, we must conclude that for wisdom that is “from above” one has to approach YHVH. The proud will receive nothing from Him, but those who will walk humbly, in reverence and awe of Him, those He will answer. “ He [YHVH] regards the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar” (Psalms 138:6). Both James and Peter write, "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5). Thus our hearts have to be right before YHVH when we approach Him for this wisdom.
The Scriptures often personify Wisdom. “Wisdom calls aloud outside; she raises her voice in the open squares” (Proverbs 1:20). “Wisdom has built her house, She has hewn out her seven pillars” (Proverbs 9:1). But in no place in the Word is it made more clear than when the Father’s wisdom was made manifest in His Son, who is “Wisdom” in His very person (1 Cor. 1:24). We get a good glimpse of the true nature of the Father when Yeshua took off His outer garments (the traditional Jewish dress of the day), girded himself with a servant’s towel and washed the feet of His disciples. The Scriptures say that Yeshua knew that the Father had given all things into His hands, He also knew where He came from and where He was going when He performed this act (see John 13:3-4). However, that was not the end of His testimony, nor of His demonstration of the knowledge of who He was, where He had come from and where He was going. In his letter to the Philippians Paul encapsulates it best: “And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death on the tree” (Philippians 2:8). Again, when the time came to manifest the wisdom of His Father, Yeshua hung naked on the execution tree. He did not need outer garments to remind Him of who He was - “the lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29,36; 1 Peter 1:19; Revelation 5:6).
During His ministry on earth Yeshua not only taught the principles about His Father’s kingdom, but in His very nature also exemplified the “Torah written on the heart”. Being the king and high priest “after the order of Melchizedec”, He laid down His life for the People of Israel. Our Messiah said that whoever exalts himself will be humbled, but that he who humbles himself will be exalted. (Matthew 23:12; Luke 14:11, 18:14). “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the land” (Matthew 5:5). “Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name” (Philippians 2:9). "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing" (Rev. 5:12)!
If it is YHVH who holds the key to our wisdom, then perhaps we should pray along with Paul and James: “We pray YHVH that You, the Elohim of our Master Yeshua the Messiah, the Father of glory, may give us the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Yourself”(Eph. 1:17), “and that we may be filled with this knowledge of Your will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding” (Col. 1:9), “especially the wisdom that is from You Abba, which is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.” Amen.
07/03/2003
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Parable - Treasure
Just a quick reminder of a scripture that I may have overused somewhat in the past… It contains what I call ‘the Father’s objectives for His son’. YHVH sent a messenger to Miriam, to inform her of His intention to fulfill and accomplish His purposes for His people Israel, saying to her, "Do not be afraid, Miriam, for you have found favor with YHVH, 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 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" (Luke 1:30-33).
After Yeshua was anointed with the Spirit, He began to teach about the kingdom that He was to restore to Israel. One of the ways in which He presented the kingdom of heaven/of God from the Torah and the Prophets was in parables. Yeshua was not making up something new, but was expounding on the Word of His Father. He taught that, "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it” (Math. 13:44-46).
As we know from previous teachings, YHVH’s kingdom order has been in the family of Adam and Noah from the beginning, but because of sin it has not been fully realized. Thus, when Yeshua taught His disciples to pray, the first thing He declared was that His Father’s kingdom would come and that His will would be done on earth, as it is in heaven. It is apparent that there is no problem in the heavens, but the problem, if you will, exists here on earth.
The everlasting kingdom that Yeshua was to restore to the house of Ya’acov, on this earth, was the very same kingdom that He described in the parables.
If we look again at the parable of the hidden treasure, and reflect back on the Tanach, in search of a source for Yeshua’s symbolism, we will notice that YHVH calls His people Israel “His treasure”. “Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine” (Ex. 19:5). "For you are a holy people to YHVH your Elohim, YHVH your Elohim has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples on the face of the earth” (Deut. 7:6). “For YHVH has chosen Jacob for Himself, Israel for His special treasure” (Ps. 135:4).
Just as the sown seed is buried in the field until it germinates and the new growth appears out of the earth, so must YHVH’s people be hidden for a season, as is also the case with the anointing of His kingdom-order, which is hidden within them. This anointing has been imparted to the seed by YHVH’s Word, which He spoke to the forefathers. Thus Israel is YHVH’s special treasure that He Himself hid in the field of His earth. Yeshua knew that the Father had sent Him to be the payment for reinstating His treasure in His home, Mount Zion. Following on the heels of the Parable of the Treasure, is the Parable of the Pearl of Great Price.
In the book of Revelation the gates of the New Jerusalem are named after the tribes of Israel, (see Rev. 21:12), and are described as made of one pearl each. “The twelve gates were twelve pearls: each individual gate was of one pearl” (Rev. 21:21). In this parable (of the pearl of great price), Yeshua is pointing directly at Israel as the Father’s special jewel. YHVH says about Ya’acov that he is His “bavat-a’yeen”, which is translated as the “apple of His eye”, but in actuality means the opening of the eye or the pupil, which has several ramifications. It can mean that they (Israel) are always the focus of YHVH’s vision (He does not see them from the periphery, but rather is looking at them directly). It can also mean endearment, or fondness, such as new parents would have toward their firstborn baby, hence the expression, “apple of His eye”. “For YHVH’s portion is His people; Jacob is the place of His inheritance. He found him in a desert land and in the wasteland, a howling wilderness; He encircled him, He instructed him, He kept him as the apple of His eye” (Deut. 32:9-10). "Up, Zion! Escape, you who dwell with the daughter of Babylon; for thus says YHVH – Elohey Tzva’ot [God of the Armies]: ‘He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; for he who touches you touches the apple of His eye’” (Zech 2:7-8). Yeshua is also pointing at Himself in this parable as the one whom the Father has invested (that is, used as payment), in order to buy back this incredible jewel.
There are many reasons why it is so important to know who we are as Israelites (in the natural), but none so wonderful as the way in which our heavenly Father views us. We have been so abused, degraded and put down that our countenance has fallen to an all time low. We no longer see ourselves as special and unique, or unconditionally lovable. So many of us have our heads bowed down and the lies, that is, those unscriptural thoughts of unworthiness and worthlessness, are rolling around in our ‘hard drive’. But if we would hop up on YHVH’s scale, we would find Yeshua balancing us out as the weight on the other side. We must stop bearing false witness, and start believing what YHVH says about us. Through the pupil of His eye He sees us as precious as the treasure and the pearl of great price, not because of any of our own doings, but because of the rock that we have been hewn from: ”Listen to Me, you who follow after righteousness, You who seek YHVH: Look to the rock from which you were hewn, and to the hole of the pit from which you were dug. Look to Abraham your father, and to Sarah who bore you; for I called him alone, and blessed him and increased him." (Isa. 51:1-2). This ‘rock’ was blessed with multiplicity and became like the sand of the sea. As we know, when one little grain of sand happens to be in the right conditions, it will ultimately become a pearl of great price.
21/02/2003
After Yeshua was anointed with the Spirit, He began to teach about the kingdom that He was to restore to Israel. One of the ways in which He presented the kingdom of heaven/of God from the Torah and the Prophets was in parables. Yeshua was not making up something new, but was expounding on the Word of His Father. He taught that, "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it” (Math. 13:44-46).
As we know from previous teachings, YHVH’s kingdom order has been in the family of Adam and Noah from the beginning, but because of sin it has not been fully realized. Thus, when Yeshua taught His disciples to pray, the first thing He declared was that His Father’s kingdom would come and that His will would be done on earth, as it is in heaven. It is apparent that there is no problem in the heavens, but the problem, if you will, exists here on earth.
The everlasting kingdom that Yeshua was to restore to the house of Ya’acov, on this earth, was the very same kingdom that He described in the parables.
If we look again at the parable of the hidden treasure, and reflect back on the Tanach, in search of a source for Yeshua’s symbolism, we will notice that YHVH calls His people Israel “His treasure”. “Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine” (Ex. 19:5). "For you are a holy people to YHVH your Elohim, YHVH your Elohim has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples on the face of the earth” (Deut. 7:6). “For YHVH has chosen Jacob for Himself, Israel for His special treasure” (Ps. 135:4).
Just as the sown seed is buried in the field until it germinates and the new growth appears out of the earth, so must YHVH’s people be hidden for a season, as is also the case with the anointing of His kingdom-order, which is hidden within them. This anointing has been imparted to the seed by YHVH’s Word, which He spoke to the forefathers. Thus Israel is YHVH’s special treasure that He Himself hid in the field of His earth. Yeshua knew that the Father had sent Him to be the payment for reinstating His treasure in His home, Mount Zion. Following on the heels of the Parable of the Treasure, is the Parable of the Pearl of Great Price.
In the book of Revelation the gates of the New Jerusalem are named after the tribes of Israel, (see Rev. 21:12), and are described as made of one pearl each. “The twelve gates were twelve pearls: each individual gate was of one pearl” (Rev. 21:21). In this parable (of the pearl of great price), Yeshua is pointing directly at Israel as the Father’s special jewel. YHVH says about Ya’acov that he is His “bavat-a’yeen”, which is translated as the “apple of His eye”, but in actuality means the opening of the eye or the pupil, which has several ramifications. It can mean that they (Israel) are always the focus of YHVH’s vision (He does not see them from the periphery, but rather is looking at them directly). It can also mean endearment, or fondness, such as new parents would have toward their firstborn baby, hence the expression, “apple of His eye”. “For YHVH’s portion is His people; Jacob is the place of His inheritance. He found him in a desert land and in the wasteland, a howling wilderness; He encircled him, He instructed him, He kept him as the apple of His eye” (Deut. 32:9-10). "Up, Zion! Escape, you who dwell with the daughter of Babylon; for thus says YHVH – Elohey Tzva’ot [God of the Armies]: ‘He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; for he who touches you touches the apple of His eye’” (Zech 2:7-8). Yeshua is also pointing at Himself in this parable as the one whom the Father has invested (that is, used as payment), in order to buy back this incredible jewel.
There are many reasons why it is so important to know who we are as Israelites (in the natural), but none so wonderful as the way in which our heavenly Father views us. We have been so abused, degraded and put down that our countenance has fallen to an all time low. We no longer see ourselves as special and unique, or unconditionally lovable. So many of us have our heads bowed down and the lies, that is, those unscriptural thoughts of unworthiness and worthlessness, are rolling around in our ‘hard drive’. But if we would hop up on YHVH’s scale, we would find Yeshua balancing us out as the weight on the other side. We must stop bearing false witness, and start believing what YHVH says about us. Through the pupil of His eye He sees us as precious as the treasure and the pearl of great price, not because of any of our own doings, but because of the rock that we have been hewn from: ”Listen to Me, you who follow after righteousness, You who seek YHVH: Look to the rock from which you were hewn, and to the hole of the pit from which you were dug. Look to Abraham your father, and to Sarah who bore you; for I called him alone, and blessed him and increased him." (Isa. 51:1-2). This ‘rock’ was blessed with multiplicity and became like the sand of the sea. As we know, when one little grain of sand happens to be in the right conditions, it will ultimately become a pearl of great price.
21/02/2003
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Parable -- Seed
(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
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
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
Last Days
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
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
Thursday, February 02, 2012
two houses in the latter days
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
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
Friday, January 20, 2012
Firstborn - First Fruit
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
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
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
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).
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).
Sunday, January 01, 2012
Firstborn continued
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).
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).
Monday, December 19, 2011
Importance of a Firstborn
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)
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)
Sunday, December 11, 2011
ninth of Av
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!
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!
Sunday, December 04, 2011
Mysteries
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)!
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)!
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