Messianic Sainthood–Paul and the Book of Romans

by | Jul 23, 2020 | Blog, Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Paul Calls His Roman Readers Saints. What Gives?

Our next challenging Pauline passage of the Book of Romans is found in chapter 1 verse 7 and it reads as such:
“To all those in Rome who are loved by G-d and called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from G-d our Father and the Master Yeshua Messiah” (ESV). 
And if you’ve paid any mind to the title of this week’s post, you should immediately catch the focus of our discussion for today: that being sainthood. Paul referred to members of the Roman assembly as saints.
 
What is a saint? I would say that much of any understanding many of us have related to the concept of a saint has been influenced by organized religion over the centuries. And that understanding, as you will see, is steeped in tradition, paganism and even religious politics.

Sainthood (Catholicism)–The Greatest Influence on the Concept

In Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican, Oriental Orthodox, and Lutheran doctrine, all of their faithful deceased in Heaven are considered to be saints, but some are considered worthy of greater honor or emulation; official ecclesiastical recognition, and consequently veneration is given to some saints through the process of canonization in the Catholic Church or glorification in the Eastern Orthodox Church (Wikipedia).  Overall, however, saints are recognized either by official ecclesiastical declaration, as in the Catholic faith, or by popular acclamation.
We can get into a huge discussion on Catholicism and sainthood, especially in regards to veneration and canonization of saints. But the point I want to get across to you as it relates to sainthood from a Catholic standpoint is that the church leaders determine who is a saint from a very short list of Catholics. In other words, Catholics pick Catholic saints. 
 

Protestantism

 
Bear in mind that Protestantism, for all intents and purpose, is an offspring of Catholicism. For Protestantism, although having been weaned from her mother Catholicism some 500-year now, still retains many of her mom’s ways, traditions and beliefs to this very day.
 
But as it relates to the question of sainthood, many protestant denominations attempt to assert that any one of their upstanding members or parishioners qualify to be saints. They generally reject the orthodox and ecumenical practice of picking and naming dead individuals from a list of individuals the church hierarchy deems as “super holy” with miraculous manifestation punctuating the tenure of their holy lives. Generally speaking, one is a saint who is obedient to his or her particular sect’s or denomination’s ways, traditions and beliefs. 
 
But the key to any of these religions, denominations, sects and such is that the leaders of these organizations make the sainthood qualification and assignment determination: not the Almighty. And we will see through Shaul’s (the Apostle Paul’s) writing here that sainthood comes through a collaborative (spiritual) process that involves Yah and the would-be saint. Biblically speaking, the church has nothing whatsoever to do with assigning of true sainthood. 
 

Sainthood in Judaism

 
Now, when we consider Judaism’s perspective on sainthood, we find no specific mention of the term saint. But we find instead something close to what could be considered sainthood, bearing the deeper connotation of righteousness. Furthermore, Judaism’s concept of sainthood is confined specifically to a specific class of Jew during a specific span and period of time in Jewish history. (Get that?)
 
The closest thing to a saint or sainthood in Judaism is this concept of tzadik. Tzadik carries with it this strong connotation of one who is exceptionally righteous in his day. 
 
Interestingly, tzadik is the 8th letter of the alef-beit (i.e., the Hebrew alphebet) with a gematria equivalent (a numerical equivalent assigned to each Hebrew letter and word) of 90. 
 
Tzadik means “righteous one” and is generally used to describe a leader and or teacher of a certain generation. 
 
The plural of tazdik is tzadikim. 
 
Tzadik is often used in reference to a Rebbe. A Rebbe is a Hasidic term for a certain Rabbi on steroids if you will. It seems that all Rebbes are Rabbis, but only a very small handful of Rabbis are considered Rebbes. 
 
So Rebbes are Rabbis who are often referred to as Tzadik or Tzadikim. And when a Rabbi is assigned the distinction of tzadik or one of the tzadikim (he is essentially dubbed a Rebbe) who essentially is viewed in a certain era as the head of the Jewish community: that is he is considered literally and figuratively to be the spiritual leader of his Jewish sect during his lifetime. These leaders are considered to be completely “righteous” people. And Judaism holds that every generation has a tzadik who serves as the spiritual leader of his sect for his era. 
 
Now, it is believed that the Rebbe’s or tzadik’s natural leadership is a result of his “righteousness.” Interestingly, it is also believed that a regular Jew can get closer to YHVH through communication with a Rebbe or a Tzadik. The sages contend that in order for one to cleave to Yah, he or she must cleave to wise men and to their disciples (who are also referred to as tzadikim). Thus one gets closer to Yah through the connection that is to be had between a Jew and a tzadik who is one with Yah. And the Scriptural proof the Rabbis use for this understanding is found in Exodus 14:31 which reads: “The Jews] believe in G-d and Moses His servant.” (The unaltered translation reads: “Israel saw the amazing power of YHVH against the Egyptians. The people were in awe of YHVH, and they believed in YHVH and his servant Moshe” (KJV)).  
 
Now Rabbinic and Hasidic Judaism contend that this all was handed down to them from Moshe who they believe to be the very first Rebbe of the Jewish people. Another Rebbe revered as a tazdik in Judaism is Rabbi Yehudah HaNasi who is famously known as the redactor of the Mishnah. 
 

Examination of Verses 4 through 7–Context

Verse 4–[Paul is referring to Yeshua here] And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: 
Verse 5–By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for His name:
We spoke on this in my previous post discussing what Shaul meant by “obedience of [the] faith.” I refer you to that important installment to this series.
Continuing on:
Verse 6–Among whom are ye also the called  (i.e., the “kletos,” those called to belong to) of Yeshua Messiah.

We must stop and look at this verse before moving on to our focus passage, verse 7.

 
“Kletos” speaks of someone who has received a general calling or invitation. The example that is given by a couple Greek Lexicons I referenced in my studies is that of one being invited to a banquet (1 Kings 1:41, 49; Maccabees 5:14). As used in the Brit HaDashah (i.e., the New Testament), “kletos” describes one who is invited by YHVH through the general call of the gospel message for purposes of obtaining eternal life in the Kingdom of Yah through Yeshua Messiah. 
Now, it must be recognized that kletos is distinguished from “oi eklektoi,” that being one who is chosen or elected. “Oi Eklektoi ” is indicative of someone who has a much greater response to the general call (i.e., Matthew 22:14; Revelation 17:14). According to Thayer’s Greek Lexicon, “kletoi” and “eklektoi” are distinguished, again evidenced by Master’s proclamation as stated in Matthew 20:14 which reads:
 
“For many are called, but few are chosen (i.e., eklektos).” 
 
So we see here that Paul is acknowledging that his Roman readers are among those global individuals (individuals who accepted the general call to discipleship throughout the known world) who name Yeshua as their Messiah. However, we will see in the very next verse, that Shaul will also acknowledge a class of individuals who are part of this general call to discipleship, but who are exceptional in their calling. These are set-apart from all those of the general calling.
And our focus verse: Verse 7—
“To all that be in Rome, beloved of Yah, called to be saints: Greace to you and peace from Yah our Father, and the Master Yeshua Messiah.” 
Saints–Holy–“agios”–to be “marked off;” “separate;” “withdrawn from common use.” Used by Yah when [primarily] claiming absolute allegiance of His people. 
Paul’s use of “agios” rests upon the Tanach’s definition of Holiness. Those who are called by the Holy Elohiym are holy by virtue of Yah’s calling and thus are claimed for holiness of life (i.e., obedience of Faith).
There is an inextricable link between the “beloved of Yah” (i.e., those who Yah loves above all others in His human creation) and sainthood. The mixed population of the Roman Assemblies is given the same designation by the apostle as was given to ancient Israel by YHVH in Deuteronomy 33:1-3:
“And this is the blessing, wherewith Moshe the man of Yah blessed the children of Israel before his death. (Now remember: these are the children of the Israelites that left Egypt forty years earlier. These are obedient and holy people, ready to possess the land of promise.) And he said, YHVH came from Sinai, and rose up from Seir unto them; He shined forth from Mount Paran, and He came with ten thousands of His saints: from His right hand went a fiery law for them. Yea, He loved the people; all His saints are in thy hand: and they sat down at thy feet, every one shall receive of thy words” (KJV). 
According to Keener:
“Scripture portrayed Israel as ‘beloved’ (cf. 11:28), ‘called’ (cf. 11:29), and as ‘set apart’ for God (cf. 11:16). Paul readily applies all these titles to a majority Gentile congregation (cf. 1:13), since all who serve Israel’s rightful king are grafted into Israel’s heritage” (cf. 11:16, 17). “
Beloved of God is in the plural without the article such that it reads: “God’s loved-ones.” The authorized version reads: “Called to be saints.“ The “to be” is italicized, indicative of it NOT being in the original or earliest Greek texts. Obviously Greek to English translators took the liberty of adding this subtle and easy to overlook nuance to our focus verse.
The CJB seems to accurately capture this understanding better than most English translations who chose to keep “called to be saints…” Stern translates the passage accordingly:
“To all those in Rome who God loves, who have been called, who have been set apart for Him: Grace to you and shalom from Yah our Father and the Lord Yeshua the Messiah.”

What is the Biblical Understanding/Definition of a Saint?

“Saints” in the Greek is “hagios,” the noun form being”hagizo,” which means “to set apart for Yah.” Thus, saint, sanctify, sanctification, holy and hallow are all translations of this same root “hagi.” The root idea is that of “separation from the world and all others,” or “to separation to Yah’s expressed purpose.” It contrasts the secular from the religious or sacred; that which is unholy from that which is holy; the pure from the impure. 
 
So here we see that Paul was most interested in directing this letter to those of the Roman Assemblies who are “saints.” These individuals are beloved of Yah and they are set apart for a holy purpose unto YHVH through Yeshua Messiah. They are holy. And because they are holy, they are, through “obedience of faith,” required to live a set-apart life of separation.” 

Closing Remarks and Call to Action

There are thousands of well-meaning and beautiful souls who have come to Faith (i.e., the True Faith once delivered) through a general calling. In other words, something clicked in each called individual’s heart and mind when they received the True Word of Yah. Each convert recognized that this Faith that he or she is being called into is the right Faith; the true Faith. Remember Romans 10:17–
“…faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of Yah.”
So everyone who has come into the Messianic/Hebrew Roots/Set-apart Faith, comes to Faith as a result of hearing and believing the True Word of Yah. 
However, as Yeshua taught–“Many are called (i.e., “kletos”) but few are chosen (i.e., “eklektos”),” even in our Faith Community. And why is it so important that one be chosen? Isn’t it enough for one to be called?
Well, turns out that only the “chosen” (i.e., the “eklektoi) will enter the Kingdom of Yah and reign with our Master Yahoshua. John wrote regarding the chosen:
“…and they that are with Him (i.e., Yeshua Messiah) are called, chosen (eklektos), and faithful” (Revelation 17:14; KJV). 
Let us not forget what our Master said about those who would enter the Kingdom of Yah:
“Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven”  (Matthew 7:21; KJV).
Thus, saints are those that “doeth the will of YHVH.”
Folks, Messianic Sainthood is determined collaboratively by YHVH and by us as individuals, not by church organizations and their leaders. Rather, Scripture is clear that Father does the calling and sets us apart from all others on the planet for His purpose. We then, must decide and purpose in our lives to do Father’s will; to be faithful; to be obedient to YHVH’s Torah and the leading of Yah’s Ruach HaKodesh. Sainthood requires giving up everything for YHVH and His Will. 
Master taught: 
“He that loveth father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he that loveth son or daught more than Me is not worthy of Me…And if any man come to Me, and hate not His father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and His own life also, he cannot be my disciple” (Matthew 10:37 and Luke 14:26; KJV). 
This my friends is what Paul was writing about when he referred to some of his Roman readers as saints. 
For us, if the spiritual shoe fits, fellow saint of the Most High Elohim, let us wear it, walk out this Faith of ours with fear and trembling and await our glorious Master’s return.
Shalom

 

Chevra Kadisha-Honoring the Jewish Dead

by | Jul 21, 2020 | Blog

An Intriguing Article

I recently became intrigued by an article I came across on the “My Jewish Learning” website. The article was entitled: “Chevra Kadisha or Jewish Burial Society.” It was written by a Rabbi Joseph Telushkin.

And yes: I do from time to time visit various Jewish websites such as “Chabad” and “My Jewish Learning.” I generally consult such sites when conducting research for content of a Hebraic and Jewish nature. Despite these sites being orthodox and rabbinic in their content’s leaning, these two sites can’t be beat for Jewish and Hebraic historic and tradition information.

Back to the Article

Were you aware that certain orthodox Jewish communities have specialized societies whose purpose it is to properly prepare Jewish remains for burial? Until reading this article, I have to say that I was, but really wasn’t aware of such societies. I was aware from my years as a Coroner Investigator that Orthodox Jewish families would require their loved one’s remains be handled a bit differently from non-Jewish remains.

Specialized Handling

Orthodox Jewish handling of their dead often involve the following:

  • “Tahara,” which is ritualistic washing and purification of the remains.
  • A Jewish person (a “Shomer”) to stay with the remains till its buried.
  • Adorning the remains with a “Tachrichim,” which is a Jewish burial shroud.
  • Placing the remains in a kosher casket.
  • And burial of the remains as quickly as possible: generally by sunset of day of death.

Chevra Kadisha

Clearly, such requirements for the proper handling of orthodox Jewish remains would present quite a challenge for most non-Jewish morticians. But it turns out that many Jewish communities have a specialized society to handle these unique requirements. This society is “Chevra Kadisha,” pronounced “chev-ru-kah-dee-shah.”

Chevra Kadisha attends to all of the elements of proper Orthodox Jewish disposition of remains, including performing the “Tahara’ (i.e., the purification and ritualistic cleansing of the remains). Men attend to male remains, while women attend to female remains.

Society Membership

In general, the Jewish Community views membership in a local Chevra Kadisha chapter as honorable. Not very many Jews seek membership in this society. Chevra Kadisha’s aren’t generally recognized outside the Orthodox Jewish Community.

It turns out that members of the various Chevra Kadisha chapters conduct a yearly fast on the 7th day of the 12th month. The purpose of the fast is to atone for any disrespect they may have shown the remains they provided care for. As means to honor their membership in the society, the members of Chevra Kadisha chapters hold a joyous banquet. (Can you imagine? That banquet must be quite a hoot. Just saying.)

Traditions Versus Kingdom

Indeed, traditions are fine. And in this case we see that our Jewish cousins care deeply for their deceased loved ones. The great care given to Jewish remains is a reflection of their respect for the life of the deceased. Thus, we live lives worthy to be called disciples of Yeshua Messiah. And we seek to make disciples of Messiah in anticipation of His soon return.

As it relates to death, Father’s set-apart people focus on coming Kingdom of YHVH. Sure we care about how our loved one’s remains are cared for. However, we care more that they are part of the first resurrection.

John wrote in Revelation 20:5-6:

“But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of Yah and of Messiah, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.“

New Bodies When He Returns

Those of us who qualify for the Kingdom and the first resurrection will receive new, glorified bodies upon Master’s return. As mentioned above, we will reign with our Master a thousand years here on earth.

Therefore, we focus and invest fully in our spiritual future in the world to come. For we know this mortal frame will quickly pass away. Thus our focus should not be on this mortal frame, especially at the time of death. For that mortal frame will be replaced with a glorified one.

Halleluyah. Come even now Master Yeshua. Come even now.

Shalom

Guarding the Righteous Heart–The Breastplate of Righteousness–Paul and Hebrew Roots Series

Guarding the Righteous Heart–The Breastplate of Righteousness–Paul and Hebrew Roots Series

by | Jul 16, 2020 | Blog, Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Guarding the Righteous Heart–The Breastplate of Righteousness

If you’ve not already done so, read and listen to Part 1 of this Armor of God (Yah) Series entitled: “Putting on God’s Image-The Belt of Truth.”

 

Spiritual Problems In Ephesus

11 Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, 12 so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them. 13 Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches.” 14 Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so. 15 And the evil spirit answered and said, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?” 16 Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. 17 This became known both to all Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. 18 And many who had believed came confessing and telling their deeds. 19 Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver. (Act 19:11-19 NKJ)

The Bad Spiritual Elements of Ephesus

The Temple of Artemis has been deemed as one of the 7-Wonders of the World and was the headquarters of the Artemis cult.

 

Idol Making and Worship of Diana or Artemis drove the Economy much of Ephesian of life.

 

Jewish Mysticism was the crux of Paul and Timothy’s spiritual warfare battles in Ephesus.

14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, (Eph 6:14 NKJ).

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the (1) rulers, against the (2) authorities, against the (3) cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the (4) spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. (Eph 6:12 ESV)

Authorities–Powers

 

For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities– all things were created through him and for him. (Col 1:16 ESV)

 

who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him. (1Pe 3:22 ESV)

(The Parable of the Talents) And he said to him, ‘Well done, good servant! Because you have been faithful in a very little, you shall have authority over ten cities.’ (Luk 19:17 ESV).

 He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him. (Col 2:15 ESV)

 

24 Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power. (1Co 15:24 NKJ)

 

The Risks Posed By Authorities is High

And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, 2 in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, 3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others. (Eph 2:1-3 NKJ)

 

Pride and Temptation

3 Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.” (Mat 4:3 NKJ)

1 Chr. 21:1-7—David’s Census brings pestilence to Yisrael: “Then Satan stood against Israel and incited David to number Israel..lBut God was displeased with this thing and He struck Israel.”

 

Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. 3 But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; 4 neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. (Eph 5:1-5 NKJ) 

Enter God’s Righteousness

  • The Righteousness of God comes freely to those who seek and surrender themselves to His authority.
  • Yah’s righteousness is found in Yah’s Words (His Torah)—2 Tim. 3:16—instructions in righteousness.
  • Righteousness of God is found in Yeshua Messiah (2 Cor. 5:21)
  • Yah is righteousness—YHVH Tsidkenu

Un-regenerated humans establish and adhere to their own righteousness which is the righteousness of the world and the enemy.

 

Putting on the Breastplate of Righteousness

Live by Faith

 

17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” (Rom 1:17 NKJ)

8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. (1Th 5:8 NKJ)

 

Learn the Ways of Yeshua

21 But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, 22 even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, (Rom 3:21-23 NKJ)

See Ourselves as Abba Sees Us

 

5 But if our unrighteousness demonstrates the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unjust who inflicts wrath? (I speak as a man.) 6 Certainly not! For then how will God judge the world? (Rom 3:5-6 NKJ)

 

Conduct Ourselves According to Yah’s Standards

 

Treat One Another As Abba Instructed

 

We conduct our affairs in accordance with Yah’s Ways

 

 We maintain peace and prosperity in our community and homes

We serve Yah only (Malachi 3:18)

Obey Yah’s Torah

 

29 Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear Me and always keep all My commandments, that it might be well with them and with their children forever! (Deu 5:29 NKJ)

 

Give freely without regard for gain (Psa. 37:21)

 

Allow The Holy Spirit Work in Us

 

 25 “Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean; I will cleanse you from all your filthiness and from all your idols. 26 “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 27 “I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them. (Eze 36:25-27 NKJ)

Control Our Thoughts

 

3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled. (2Co 10:3-6 NKJ)

Jam. 1:12—Blessed is the man who endures (withstands; stands up to) temptations… 

Shalom and Blessings to you…Faithfully

Putting on God’s Image-The Belt of Truth-Part 1 of the Armor of God Series

by | Jul 9, 2020 | Blog, Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Ephesians 6:11-18—The Armor of Yah

  • Famous passage of Scripture that most evangelical and fundamental Christians know and understand from a denominational standpoint.
  • In fact, whole ministries have been launched and based upon this passage alone.
  • And the focus seems always to be on how to overcome the powers of darkness. Which it is in fact an effective teaching on how to overcome the enemy.
  • But what Paul was trying to convey here in this teaching is that donning the Armor of Yah is about a lifestyle—a way of life—that goes beyond waging spiritual warfare.
  • Putting on the whole “spiritual” armor of Yah is a requirement of every disciple of Yahoshua Messiah if he or she desires to enter the Kingdom of Yah and be effective witnesses for Him in the earth.

The Armor of Light

  • The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living. (Rom 13:12 NLT)
  • Just as we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the man of heaven. (1Co 15:49 ESV)
  • and have been clothed with the new man that is being renewed in knowledge according to the image of the one who created it. (Col 3:10 NET)

Armor of Light   —-> Image of Yah

  • What Paul was trying to convey to the Ephesians was NOT just a means by which they could withstand the evil spiritual influences that existed in their city (i.e., Ephesus), but more so, how they must live on a daily-basis if they desired to enter the Kingdom of Yah.
  • Twice in Ephesians Paul stresses to the Ephesians the importance of putting on the “New Man” twice (2:15; 4:24) and walking/operating in the “light” 3 times (5:8, 13, 14).
  • Essentially, when Paul instructed the Ephesians to put on the Whole Armor of Yah, he was essentially telling them to take on the image of Yah.

Romans 13:12—Put on the Armor of Light

  • The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. (Rom 13:12 KJV)
  • A better translation or understanding:
  • The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living. (Rom 13:12 NLT)

What is the Armor of Light?

  • Right Living
  • Yah’s Way of Life
  • Transforming into the Image of our Creator
  • Just as we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the man of heaven. (1Co 15:49 ESV)

What is an Image?

  • Definition: Tselem—Hebrew—likeness; resemblance; a representation.
  • Eikon—Greek—the moral likeness of renewed men to God

 

The Primary Goal of the Enemy is to mar/diminish/prevent Yah’s Image from manifesting in the World…

The Enemy’s Primary Means of Blocking Yah’s Image in the World is by Attacking Yah’s Truth…

Truth = Torah (Yah’s Word)

  • Under the umbrella of the “Renewed Covenant,” we know that Yah is in the process of writing (inscribing) His Torah—His Truths—on our hearts and placing His Holy Spirit in us so that we may walk according to Yah’s Commandments—such that we be Yah’s imagers in the world (Jeremiah 31 and Ezekiel 36).
  • When we decide to abandon our former lives for Yah’s Way of life, we effectively become dead to our flesh—dead to our former way of life.
  • We, through the sanctification process, begin to come alive to Yah’s Kingdom and Way of Life for mankind.
  • We move from a life of darkness to a life of light; from dirty clothes to armor of light.

What is Truth?

  • Truth comes only from YHVH our Elohim—Exodus 34:6, 7
  • Elohim is Truth—Psalms 31:5
  • Yah’s Torah is Truth—Psalms 119:142
  • All Yah’s Commandments—Instructions are Truth—Psalms 119:151

Sometimes The Biggest Impediment to Truth is our Leaders

True instruction was in his mouth, and no wrong was found on his lips. He walked with me in peace and uprightness, and he turned many from iniquity.  7 For the lips of a priest should guard knowledge, and people should seek instruction from his mouth, for he is the messenger of the LORD of hosts.  8 But you have turned aside from the way. You have caused many to stumble by your instruction. You have corrupted the covenant of Levi, says the LORD of hosts, (Mal 2:6-8 ESV)

Matthew 15:3-9-Anti-Torah Teachings

3 “And why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?… 7 You hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy of you, when he said:  8 “‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me;  9 in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'” (Mat 15:3-9 ESV)

 

Such Things Serve to Dim the Image of Yah in the World…

Colossians 1:13-15—The Image of Yah

13 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son,  14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.

Romans 8:29—Yeshua is our Example

For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.

Hebrews 1:2-3—Yeshua the Image of Yah

 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world.  3 He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high…

The Tactic of the Enemy—Disrupt Yah’s Image in the World

  • Religion
  • Philosophies
  • Humanism
  • Doctrines of men according to the rudiments of the world (Darwinism—Evolution)
  • Devastations—Disasters–Wars

Putting on the Belt of Truth

  • Equates to observing the Torah of Yah each day
  • It means becoming that “new creature” that Paul writes about in 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Galatians 6:15
  • It means being transformed into the image of Yeshua our Master

 

We must learn everything we possibly can about our Master………..For we find in  Yeshua the very “IMAGE” of our Creator…

Attributes of The Image of Yah

  • Justice
  • Righteousness
  • Equality
  • Community
  • Peace
  • Love
  • Holiness

Attributes of the Image of the Enemy

  • Deception
  • Lies
  • Enslavement
  • Hatred
  • Chaos
  • Iniquity
  • Injustice

Call To Action

  • Allow the Holy Spirit to Work in our lives…
  • Be obedient to Yah’s Torah and the teachings of our Master Yeshua
  • Put on the “Belt of Truth” by living every Word that proceeds from the mouth of Yah—Deuteronomy 8:3; Matthew 4:4
  • Keep our heads in the book
  • Pray without ceasing
  • Guard our hearts and minds from the defilements of this world

Living the Life of a Priest of God–Yeshua-focused Torah Discussion–Torah Reading 91

by | Jul 3, 2020 | Blog, Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Living the Life of a Priest of God (of Yah)–Torah Reading 91

 
Leviticus 21
Ezekiel 44:25-31
Luke 11:30-44
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Leviticus 21–Section Verse Study–Laws Concerning the Levitical Priests
 
  • Know that you are special in Yah’s sight and your future in Yah’s Kingdom is unfathomable and spectacular. 

  • 9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: (1Pe 2:9 KJV)
 
Of our glorious future in the Kingdom Paul wrote:
 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (1Co 2:7-10 KJV) 
Torah is described as providing the Truthseeker with: “a shadow of good things to come…” (Heb. 10:1). 
 

Verses 1-3–Priests were not to defile themselves with dead bodies 

Pollutions-Ceremonial–Lev. 7:21; 15:11; 21:1; Num. 8:6; 19:11; Deu. 21:23 
 
What we find in these verses are the exceptions in which a priest might submit to such defilement. 
 
The priesthood is a shadow and a symbol, to be fulfilled in the eternal priesthood of Messiah (Heb. 7:23-8:6). Holiness requires separation from death, which symbolizes sin. The priests prefigure the priesthood of Messiah and of His redeemed people (1 Pet. 2:5, 9; Rev. 1:6; 5:10). Abba demands holiness for the priests and of their offerings.  While priests have been ordained and are holy in terms of their office (ch. 8), that holiness is only an outward one; it does not necessarily mean that they have inner holiness of heart and conduct. More stringent regulations of holiness are required of the priests because they work directly with the holy objects of the sanctuary.
 
Those who are called to be spiritual leaders, such as priests, bear a heavier responsibility in the service of Yah than do laypeople. 
 
We who would be Yeshua’s disciples are also called to great responsibility and a great deal of those responsibilities are often difficult for some to grasp and keep: Christmas; foods; festival keeping; righteous living; Sabbath–keeping. In a sense we are like priests in that we bear responsibilities in the service of Yah.
 
Thus before we take on the life of a disciple, we must give serious consideration to those responsibilities. 
 
Messiah counseled would be disciples to count the cost of their discipleship: 
 
25 And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them,  26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. 27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. 28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? 29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, 30 Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. 31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? 32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace. 33 So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple. (Luk 14:25-33 KJV).  

 

In addition to the outward holiness that the priests are granted when ordained, they are constantly commanded to maintain inner holiness (chs. 8; 9; 10; 21). 
 
In some authorized version translations, it is written that “no one” is to come into contact with human remains. But priests applies here such that these restrictions are limited to the priests, not to the Israelites, in general. 
 
Thus, the only individuals that a priest could grieve properly for were: (1) parents; (2) siblings; (3) sons; and (4) unmarried daughters (married daughters were under the care of their husband). Outside of these, Levitical Priests could not come into contact with human remains. 
 
These were not to defile themselves among the Israelites as a whole. 
Verse 4–(Difficult verse) Yah considered His Levitical Priests as “chief men” among His people. Depending upon the translations you’re using, it may read that the priests must not defile himself as a husband in his peoples. The meaning of the line (according to NET Bible Commentary) is disputed, but it appears to prohibit a priest from burying any relative by marriage (as opposed to the blood relatives of verses 2 and 3), including his wife. Other translations simply declare that the priest was not to defile himself among his people since he is a leader among his people. The NASU states that the priest is not to defile himself as a relative by marriage among his people. 
Verse 5-–Thus the priest was not to profane himself in any manner. They were not to: (1) altar the hair on their heads; (2) alter their beards; (3) cause incise wounds to their bodies; (4) marry a harlot, a defiled woman, or a divorced woman (vs. 7).  

 

In such case, the daughter of a priest who profanes herself profanes her father (vs. 9). She was to be burned in such cases.  Reference Lev. 19:27 and 28–my post entitled “Is Torah-keeping Necessary for Salvation.” Deu. 14:1; Eze. 44:40; Jer. 16:6. 
 
This mitzvah related to ANE (Ancient Near East) mourning and idolatrous practices which Yah forbade His priests to engage in.
 
Verses 6, 8–-The priests were to be holy for they served in the Tabernacle. When a priest fell into evil, they profaned the Name of YHVH (Lev. 10:3). So what did it mean to profane the Name of YHVH to the forefathers in the wilderness? In our Torah Reading, Yah is instructing the priests in how they are to conduct their mourning in a holy way. The priests are Yah’s representatives to the people. Thus they must be holy in order to express the holiness of Yah. Consequently, if a priest acts in a way that is common or prohibited by Yah, then they are improperly bearing Yah’s name. Thus, they are defiled. The priests are held to a higher standard among the peoples of the nation; if they act like the rest of the people then they will be guilty of profaning or defiling Yah’s Name. 
Verse 7 clearly warns the would be priest not to take a compromised woman as a wife. Doing so would not only sully the priest’s holy reputation, but also defile the Aaronic line. 
Violations of these mitzvot diminished the sanctity of either the service of the Tabernacle, which bears the Name, or they profane Yah’s Name directly. (E.g., families where a member sullies the family name by acting foolishly.)
 
Reference Ezekiel 36:19, 20–“And I scattered them among the heathen, and they were dispersed through the countries: according to their way and according to their doings I judged them. And when they entered unto the heathen, whither they went, they profaned my holy name, when they said to them, ‘These are the people of YHVH and are going forth out of His land‘” (KJV). 
 
When the nations of the world see Yah’s people acting a fool, they, the nations, will naturally begin to take on a diminished understanding and perspective of YHVH. When a person who claims to serve Yah acts contrary to Yah’s established ways, the world sees this and believes Yah is unworthy to be worshiped. This is profaning Yah’s Name (Lev. 19:12; Prov. 30:8, 9; Eze. 20:39). 
 
We disciples of Yeshua have also been called to be holy–set apart, not unlike the Levitical Priests of old: 

 “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for Yah’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Pet. 2:9). 

 
Thus we too have the obligation of not profaning Yah’s Name:  
 
“Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify Yah in the day of visitation” (1 Pet. 2:12). 
 

 Therefore, instead of profaning Yah’s Name through violations of Yah’s Torah, our actions are to bring glory to Yah’s Name even among those who do not believe the same way as we do.

 The power of the Ruach HaKodesh helps us to stay in line and avoid profanations of Yah’s Name. Indeed, we cannot always trust ourselves to act righteously through our own efforts. Thus the writer of Proverbs penned: 

 

“Do not let kindness and truth leave you: bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good repute in the sight of Yah and man” (3:3, 4). 

 

Profanation spreads and diminishes Yah’s presence and authority among the people. And Yah does not tolerate such things. 
Verse 9--Father kept in mind the importance of maintaining the integrity of the family in terms of the Priestly line: for they were required to marry only virgins of Israel. Daughters on the other hand were not permitted to be promiscuous. Such unholy behavior brought shame and profanation upon her priestly father, diminishing his authority and holy stature among the people. Thus, such daughters were to be burned. Talmudic commentary on this passage actually places the man who involved himself in the daughter’s harlotry to also be burned. 
Verses 10-15–-The High Priest was held to an even higher standard, whereby he was not permitted to dishevel his hair (some English translations address the mitre being removed from the Cohen’s head as opposed to the Cohen’s hair being uncovered or disheveled), nor was he permitted to rend his clothes. These two acts in the ANE were in response to grief. The High Priest was not permitted to grieve in the ancient middle eastern manner common to the Hebrew people that involved disheveling or uncovering their hair and rending their clothes. 

 

Let us not forget that YHVH commanded Aharon and Eleazer not to grieve in any such manner in response to Avihu and Nadab’s terrible deaths, lest they die in the process (Leviticus 10). And also recall that Aharon was not permitted to leave the confines of the sanctuary during that time (10:7).
 
So now Abba was making it official: The Cohen Gadol (i.e. High Priest)–Aharon here and those of Aharon’s line who would succeed him in the years to come–could not come into contact with human remains at all during their tenure as Cohen Gadol. This would even exclude the remains of parents (verse 12). 
 
The relationship that Abba required of the High Priest and his Priests was such that there was little room for other relationships. The relationship between priest and Yah were primary and foremost–special–exclusive. This all portends the relationship Yahoshua had with His Father and how no other human relationship held water to the relationship He had with His Father. Which portends our present situations as well: we must get to the place in our relationship with Abba that our relationship with YHVH supersedes that of all other human relationships we may be privy to. In the case of the True Faith, blood is NOT thicker than water. 

 

In terms of marriage and family, the Cohen Gadol was permitted to marry only a virgin Hebrew woman so as to keep the priestly line pure and intact (verse 14, 15). This clearly sends a message to us today about our marriage prospects as Netzari. Just as it was with Aharon and his line, so it must be with us: our lives are not our own and no thing is about us, but instead, everything must be about YHVH our Elohim. Thus when it comes to finding the right wife or husband for those of you who are single and maybe searching for that perfect mate: you must always put such crucial things in Yah’s hand and be led and joined to the one individual Yah has set aside for you. We should not be in the business of looking for mates that fit our criteria: looks; education; wealth, someone who wants or does not want children; fun; tall or short; famous; connected; etc. These things are all wonderful things, but if the individual does not fit Yah’s criteria for us, who are we to circumvent YHVH and grab hold to that which seemingly would satisfy our carnal desires in a potential mate. It’s not about us. It’s always about Him. Our criteria for a potential mate must match Yah’s criteria for a mate for us: that is, if Yah even desires a mate for us. 

 

Many within our Faith who are divorced and separated, etc., are out there searching for someone–anyone–who is not married or dating another person. Desperate. And these are in some cases willing to attach themselves to potential mates who are not Netzari. And when they finally do pair up with these individuals who Yah has not vetted nor prescribed or selected for them, they not only snub YHVH and His desires for them, but they bring onto themselves potential relational and emotional harm because they are unequally yoked  and are outside the will of YHVH (2 Cor. 6:14). 

 

Father requires our complete and unhindered attention. Father tells the priests later on in Numbers that they will not have physical land inheritance handed down to them, but their inheritance is that of YHVH. Yah tells them that :

 

“I am your portion and your inheritance among the people of Israel” (Num. 18:20). 

 Father would provide for the priests all they needed to subsist and flourish in his service. Will we ever get to the place where our relationship with YHVH is such that we place our all in Him as being our everlasting portion and eternal inheritance? 

Verses 16-22–-The following Levites were disqualified from overall priestly duties:
 
Those with physical defects could not offer sacrifices unto YHVH (vss. 16-21). The thinking stems from the fact that certain animal sacrifices had to be without defect and flawless. That being the case, having a priest who had physical defects offering flawless animal sacrifices would diminish the purpose and established ways of Yah; it would send mixed and defiled messages. 
 
The other thing to bear in mind here is the prophetic shadow picture that the Levitical Priest painted in the Person and Office of Yeshua Messiah. Our Master was flawless in every aspect of His being. He would not only be the perfect sacrifice to atone for the sins of the world, but He would also be the perfect, unblemished Cohen Gadol, under the Melchizedekian Priesthood. 
 
Thus we are called to be perfect and without defect in our service to Yah and to His Kingdom in all our ways. From a Spirit and Truth perspective, we’re not talking about physical deficiencies; instead, perfection and blameless in all our ways. 
The Levite who suffered from such deformations could, however, partake in the rightful portions of qualified sacrifices and offerings (vss. 22-24). Can you see that even in a Levite not meeting the physical requirements for priestly duties, Abba showed forth His love and grace toward His servants. As modern day priests of the Most High, how much more grace and love can we expect from our amazing Elohim?
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Ezekiel 44:25-31–The duties of the Temple Priests were enumerated by Ezekiel beginning with 44:1.

The Zadokite priesthood remained pure in their ways and in service to Yah in the Temple (vs. 15). Although there is some debate as to the reason the Sons of Zadok rose to priestly prominence in the temple service. From my research it would appear that the prominent reason they rose to prominence was that they refused to participate in the Hellenization that had overtaken the Jerusalem priesthood and thus Father replaced them. Zadok was a priest of Aaron’s line who came to prominence in David’s time (2 Sam. 20:25). They remained faithful to David and then to Solomon in the power struggle over succession to David’s throne (1 Kin. 1:39). 

 

Thus Ezekiel passed down the following requirements for the Zadokite Priests:

 

They were to wear proper linen garments when serving in the Temple proper (vss. 17-19). The garments were to be treated as holy and not worn outside the Temple/Sanctuary; specifically not be worn outside the Inner Court.

 

Father instructs them to exercise proper, righteous grooming standards (vs. 20); not consume wine prior to entering the Inner Court (vs. 21); marry virgins of the House of Israel or widows of priests (vs. 22); teach the people the difference between the holy and the unholy and cause the people to discern between the unclean and the clean (vs. 23); judge in accordance with Yah’s judgments–keep Yah’s Torah–carry out Yah’s Torah in Yah’s appointed meetings–hallow Yah’s Sabbaths (vs. 24). They were to keep the very regulations regarding human remain contact as mentioned in our Torah Reading (Leviticus 21). 

 

These were not to be given any inheritance of land, for YHVH was their inheritance (vs. 28; cf. Num. 18:20). Their sustenance would come wholly from the sin offerings, the grain offerings and trespass offerings; the firstfruits offerings and sacrifices (vss. 29, 30). They were not to consume that which died of itself or was preyed upon by another creature (vs. 31).  

 

The most striking application to me to be derived is that we are replaceable. We should never find ourselves in a place where we believe we’ve arrived, because we may suffer a great fall and someone else whom we would not have expected will come in and take our crown. This is sort of what happened when the Sons of Zakote replaced their predecessors who failed to remain faithful in their duties and service unto YHVH.  
 
Master told the Philadelphian Assembly: 

 

10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is  new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. 13 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. (Rev 3:10-13 KJV)

 

The Haftorah reading lacks the presence of a cohen gadol, but does describe a prince. This prince takes up the duties of the cohen gadol–with all of the peculiar aspects of His role outlined in Ezekiel 44:3; 46:2, 8. Mashiyach = Prince (Ezekiel 34:24). Reference Zechariah 6:12, 13–Sacrificial system overseen by Mashiyach in the Millenniel Mishkah. Hebrews 10:4–Animal sacrifices are not able to replace Mashiyach’s sacrifice. These sacrifices will serve as divine revelation and demonstration of Yeshua’s divinely appointed sacrifice for sinners.  It’s difficult for many in our Faith to accept that the Millennial Temple will have worship and sacrificial services ongoing. But Abba intends for the world of the Millennial Reign of Messiah understand the relevance of what Yeshua’s sacrifice has accomplished for mankind. We know that Yeshua will bear the marks of His crucifixion throughout this period as well. Father is a God of reminders and symbolism. 
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Luke 11:30-44

The Pharisees appear pure on the outside, but inside they were full of greed and wickedness (vss. 37-44). 

 

In 11:44, Yeshua said to the Pharisees, “Woe to you (experts in the law and Pharisees, hypocrites)! You are like unmarked graves and people (Gr. “men” meaning both sexes) walk over them without realizing it!”

 

In Judaism, to come into contact with the dead or what is associated with human remains, even without knowing it, makes one unclean. To Pharisees, who would have been so sensitive about contracting ceremonial uncleanness, it would have been quite a stinging rebuke to be told they caused it.
Priests were especially set-apart for their duties.  

 

Apostolic reading highlights the understanding that for anyone to have a true relationship with the Creator, they must be holy (one’s soul), both spiritually and bodily. The rituals when understood and properly followed, with a righteous heart, teach the eternal truths and principles Yah desires for us to know and follow and walk out.  

 

The handwashing ritual was an added halachah intended by the sages to put a purity fence around Torah. But Yeshua used this incident to emphasize the immense importance of relationship with Yah and inward purity over the rote keeping of rituals. Our souls must also be cleansed.