The Gates of Hell

The Gates of Hell

by | May 22, 2020 | Blog, Podcasts

The Gates of Hell

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

The Gates of Hell

Today I want to discuss the enemy’s goal to destroy and hinder the Creator’s Plan of Redemption, Restoration and Salvation. It will become the purpose of this discussion to examine how the enemy was defeated by Master Yahoshua (Yeshua) Messiah and to highlight how we are poised to carry on the war against the Kingdom of Darkness. For Yeshua declared to His disciples (and to us by extension) that the Gates of Hell shall not prevail –will not stand–against the Body of Messiah (i.e., of Mashiyach). 

Our Identity

 We are supposed to be children of YHVH: 

1 John 3:10—”By this the children of Yahweh are distinguished from the children of the devil: Whoever does not practice righteousness and does not love his brother, does not belong to Elohim.”

Of the Pharisees and Scribes, Yeshua called them out for who they really were:

John 8:44—You are of the Devil as father, and the lust of your father you desire to do. That one was a murderer from the beginning, and he has not stood in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own, because he is a liar, and the father of it.”

And as Children of YHVH, we have a vital role in the reclamation of Creation from the hands of the Kingdom of Darkness, and to usher in the Kingdom of Yah. 

As it relates to our role—as Children of Yah–in the reclaiming of Creation and the ushering in of the Kingdom of Yah, we receive our marching orders from the example and instructions of Yeshua our Master. 

And what we will see in part today that the 2nd Adam—Yeshua–would begin the work that He started to restore and usher in the Kingdom and take down the Kingdom of Darkness: 

1 Cor. 15:45—”So also it has been written, ‘The first man, Adam, became a living soul.’ The last Adam a life-giving Ruach (ie., Spirit).”

Yeshua, who Paul referred to as the 2nd Adam, through His obedience unto death, would usher in the Paradise that was lost—the Kingdom of YHVH–by the actions of the 1st Adam and return eternal life and sonship to Yah’s human creation.

The Ongoing Struggle Against the Gates of Hell

But none of this is to come about without an immense struggle on our part. As we will see, the enemy saw in part a glimpse of Father’s overall plan to redeem man from the dominion of the Kingdom of Darkness and to restore Paradise Lost—the Kingdom of Yah here on earth. 

So in response to Yah’s plan, which we are a part of, the enemy has waged an intense) (cosmic) war to retain that which they’ve held possession of for so many millennia. 

In fact, there’s coming a time when the enemy will launch a full frontal—side—rear attack on Yah’s people. The Sons or Saints of the Most High will suffer momentary defeat at the hands of the enemy: 

Dan. 7:25—”And he (the enemy) shall speak commands against the Most High, and he shall wear out the saints of the Most High. And he intends to change times and law. And they shall be given into his hand UNTIL A TIME AND TIMES AND ONE HALF TIME.”

You see, the enemy will see and believe the saints’ defeat  a huge win for them, just as they thought Yeshua’s crucifixion put an end to any talk about a coming kingdom of Yah. But just like the crucifixion of Yeshua ultimately proved to be the enemy’s actual death knell, the saints’ defeat will only hasten the enemy’s ultimate destruction. 

In the interim, Father’s grace has provided his true children with the tools and resources they need to (1) successfully defend against the enemy’s attacks; and (2) effectively fight and win against the enemy. 

Thus it behooves every one of us who are children of the Most High to be prepared and effective soldiers against the kingdom of darkness.

 

We Can Win The Fight

If we heed the lessons that Father graciously placed in His eternal Word, we can effectively fight against the enemy and do our part to bring in or usher in the Kingdom of the Most High. 

Because at the end of the day, we all have a role and responsibility in this thing. We’re not supposed to be “pew warmers” or “spiritual spectators.” 

The Church Triumphant has sold us a bill of goods that we are simply to await a sudden rapture where we’ll be whisked away to heaven and all of the hard and difficult work that needs to be done will take care of itself. 

This could not be further from the truth. For every Set-Apart child of the Most High has a duty and role to play in all this. And we need to be about fulfilling that role and those responsibilities.

What Does It Look Like?

In order to understand the high level of warfare and push-back that the enemy has invested in this thing, let us take a quick survey of the war that has occurred between the powers of darkness and our Master Yeshua. 

We must remember that Yeshua is the fulcrum upon which Yah’s plan for the restoration of Creation rests.

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Here’s another central principle to keep in mind here: Everyday of Yeshua’s earthly ministry was a “spiritual assault on the forces of darkness. And Yeshua’s purpose (and we touched upon this last time if you recall) was to reclaim what rightly belonged to Him, His Father,” and those who would be Yah’s elect/chosen ones/children. 

The question that must be answered from each of us is: is our  earthly ministry a spiritual assault on the forces of darkness in the advancement of the Kingdom?

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Recall that the deliverance of Yah’s chosen people from Egypt was a victory over the demigods of the region. And Moshe and most of those who were delivered realized this. For it was Moshe who proclaimed in his song celebrating Yah’s mighty wonders in delivering the nation: “Who is like Yahweh among the god” (Exo. 15:11)? 

The Exodus of Yah’s chosen people from Egypt was a resumption of Yah’s overall plan to restore Paradise Lost, ie., the Edenic Kingdom on this earth. And it was a resumption of the process by which Yah would legally reclaim and redeem humankind from the fallen ones who had held claim to them since the Fall. 

And what we will see throughout Yeshua’s earthly ministry was in fact somewhat of an Exodus 2.0 And Exodus 3.0 is coming in the End Times. 

Let’s look briefly at Exodus 2.0 for a moment.

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The Baptism of Yeshua in Comparison to the Red Sea Crossing

 

Mark 1:9-11—”And it happened that in those days Yeshua came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. And immediately as He was coming up out of the water, He saw the heavens being split (Gr. Schizo) apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on Him. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”

The LXX’s description of the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus 14:21 uses the same Greek term “schizo” to describe the splitting of the heavens and the Spirit descending down upon Yeshua like a dove. 

This was the consecration of Yeshua via Yehovah’s pronouncement “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased” (a rabbinic term, “bat kol,” is a certifying pronouncement from heaven). This was the first of 3-such “bat kols” that would be documented, certifying Yeshua’s ministry by the Creator of the Universe. 

When we saw the Israelites cross over on dry land through the Red Sea, we saw in a sense the consecration of Yah’s people from the demigods of Egypt. And the children of Israel would be given the opportunity to be Father’s special possession; His elect; His Children. 

The title “beloved” that was placed upon Yeshua by His Father was used to mark Solomon as the legal heir to the Davidic convenantal throne (reference Jedidiah of 2 Sam. 12:24, 25). Yehovah essentially says of Yeshua to creation: “This is the king, the legitimate heir to David’s throne.”

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Yeshua’s Wilderness Experience

 

Immediately after Yeshua’s baptism, the Spirit (the Ruach) led Him into the wilderness where He was tempted by hasatan at the direction of the Holy Spirit (Mat. 4:1; Mar. 1:12; Luk. 4:1-13). Like the Israelites and their wilderness experience of Exodus 1.0, this leg of Yeshua’s ministry was crucial to Yeshua’s vetting and defeat of the enemy. 

The Judean wilderness is not just one of the more desolate places on this planet. It is also metaphorically unholy ground. The wilderness is associated with the demonic. And so it seems quite appropriate that Yeshua would meet hasatan there.

 

Quick Review

(1) Israel (Yehovah’s son—Exo. 4:23) passed through the Red Sea (Exo. 14, 15). 

(2) Israel met Yehovah at Mount Sinai on the first leg of restoring Paradise Lost. 

(3) Israel’s faith and loyalty proved insufficient for them to carry out the remainder of the reclamation process (Jud. 2:11-15). The demonic powers of the wilderness (Deu. 32:15-20) forestalled the restoration process for a time. 

Yeshua, however, would repeat this process from start to finish without faltering. During Yeshua’s temptation in the wilderness He quoted 3 passages of Torah that Moshe addressed to Israel prior to their entry into Canaan: 

  1. Thou shalt not live by bread alone but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of Yah—Mat. 4:4 and Deu. 8:3.
  1. Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy Elohim—Mat. 4:7 and Deu. 6:16.
  1. Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve—Mat. 4:10 and Deu. 6:13.

Israel as YHVH’s son (Exo. 4:22—Moshe told Pharaoh—Israel is My son, even My firstborn) had to go through a time of testing that involved being deprived of water and food; taught Yah’s way of life; pressed into trusting obedience to YHVH. That process took 40-years in preparation for them to be worthy of service unto Yah. 

Yeshua,  Son of Yah, was also sent into the wilderness for testing. This time, this Son of Yah would be tested for 40-days. Like Israel before Him, He too was tried and tested for service. He faced the exact same tests that Israel endured. Israel ultimately reclaimed the Land and took the reclamation/restoration/redemption of Creation and Paradise that was lost up a few notches. But they failed over several centuries to fulfill their prime directive, which was to be the royal priests to the people nations in that reclaimed Paradise.

 

Where Israel failed, Yeshua succeeded.

 

Folks, those of us who have been selected as YHVH’s sons/daughters will have to go through a period of testing and refining. Are we ready for that?

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Yeshua Cranks Up His Assault On the Kingdom of Darkness

 Upon returning from the wilderness, Yeshua filled with the power of the Spirit begins His ministry with 3 big moves: 

(1) The proclamation of: “Repent, because the Kingdom of Heaven is near” (Mat. 4:17). 

(2) He assembles an assault team—His disciples. 

(3) He heals a demon-possessed man (Mar. 1:16-28; Luk. 4:31-5:11). And Yeshua links the advent of the Kingdom of Heaven with His casting out of demons (Luk. 11:20). 

Thus, the holy war began: the next phase in the reclamation/redemption Plan and the ultimate defeat of the demigods of this world. 

He didn’t stop there: Yeshua ramps up His proclamation of the coming Kingdom of God, with many more healings and exorcisms. And if that’s not enough, He gives His disciples the power and authority over the demigods and sends them out to proclaim the Kingdom of God throughout the region. 

“And after these things, Yahshua also appointed seventy others from His disciples, and sent them two by two before His face  into every city and region, where He was about to go” (Luk. 10:1). 

Now, the number 70 is not happenstance. Seventy is the number of nations listed in Genesis 10 that the demigods took control over and possessed (Deu. 32:8). These 70-disciples are said to have returned with joy (Luk. 10:17), announcing to Yeshua that the demons were subject to them in His Name. 

What was Yeshua’s response? “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven” (10:18). The implications are clear: “Yeshua’s ministry was the beginning of the end for the enemy and the gods of the nations. And the great reclamation/redemption of creation and humankind had begun in earnest.

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The Declaration that Rocked the Kingdom of Darkness and Sealed Yeshua’s Doom

 We find near the latter portions of His ministry the incident that occurred in Caesarea Philippi. Yeshua and His team had been conducting evangelistic work in the northern region of Judea. The group came to Caesarea Philippi, which is 25 miles north of the Sea of Galilee.

Turns out that Caesarea Philippi is is a fertile and lush region with a dubious spiritual background. It’s lushness attracted a great amount of religious worship. Archaeologists have uncovered many remains of Greek and Roman temples in the region.

The city sits at the base of Mount Hermon. The region was referred to as Baal Hermon and Baal Gad in the Old Testament. The Greek god Pan was worshiped there.

Recall that this was also the region where Og of Bashan (a demonic giant) reigned. And it was Joshua’s holy warriors that took him out (Num. 21:33; 32:33; Deu. 1:4; 3:1-13).

Turns out that the region was ground zero for the government and rule of the Kingdom of Darkness for that region.

It is here that Yeshua asks His disciples who the people of Judea say He was. The disciples go through a litany of prophets and bible heroes. So Yeshua refines His question and asks His disciples: “Who  do you say that I am?”

And it was Simon Peter (Kefa) who responded: “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living Elohim” (Mat. 16:13-16).

Peter’s pronouncement of who Yeshua prompted Yeshua to make a startling proclamation—in the sight and hearing of the demigods on ground zero:

 “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my “Church”—my “Ekklesia;” my Kehila—my assembly of Call-Out, Set-Apart ones), and the gates of hell (ie., hades) shall not prevail against it. And I will give each of you the keys to the Kingdom (of Heaven). And whatever you bind upon earth shall be bound in heaven—and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. And then He charged His disciples that they should not tell anyone that He was the Messiah” (Mat. 16:17-20).

 

Yeshua is using a literary technique here scholars refer to as “wordplay.” Yes, Kefa, or Peter means stone or rock. But Yeshua was taking Peter’s name and using it to direct His disciple’s attention to Mount Hermon—Ground Zero—demigod headquarters—where Yeshua is proclaimed as (1) the Messiah; and (2) the legal Son of the Living God. This was done in earshot of the demigods who were once considered sons of God themselves. But they lost that status. 

And He promises His disciples they would have all the resources they needed to combat and help take down the Kingdom of Darkness: such that whatever they were to bind or loose on earth will be reflected in heaven. 

And then he tells them the strangest thing: “Don’t tell anyone who He was. Why? Because Yeshua had more work that needed to be done before His earthly ministry was to be completed and He could not afford this information getting out and into the hands of the wrong people—be they well meaning people or bad people. Yeshua realized that He had to expedite His death at this point by allowing the demigods to do their work. 

Consequently, the demigods rightly saw all of this as an affront to their rule. Thus they began the process of taking Yeshua out. 

So Yeshua proceeds to tell His disciples of what will take place in a short period time:

 “From that time forth Yeshua began to declare to His disciples that He must go to Yerushalayim and suffer many things of the elders and ruling cohenim and sages, and be killed and be raised again the third day” (Mat. 16:21).

And then He told them something that has been misunderstood by church scholars and teachers for centuries: 

“Truth I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste of death be3fore they see the Son of Man in Kingdom” (Mat. 16:28). 

We will see shortly.

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 Churchianity and Catholicism have misunderstood the significance of this “gates of hell” Proclamation.

Ancient Near Eastern understanding of gates were that of defensive in nature. They were not weapons of any sort. They were not offensive by any means. 

With this ancient understanding of gates, when we look closely to what exactly Yeshua was implying here to His disciples, the domain of the demigods (the gates of hell) would now be under assault. And who was going to be doing the assaulting? The Kingdom of God would be conducting an assault on the domain of the demigods and their very realm would not be able to stand against the assault. And like Yeshua and His disciples, we are to be a part of that assault against the Gates of Hell. 

Yeshua’s proclamation was never intended to be a prophecy that the Kingdom of Darkness would assault and threaten the so-called Church. It was actually the reverse when you look at this thing in its proper context.

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The Transfiguration—The Straw Breaking the Camel’s Back

 And if the proclamations of Yeshua and Peter at the base of Mount Hermon weren’t enough, another assault against the Bashan Kingdom occurred just a few days after. 

Recall that Yeshua told His disciples that there were some standing with them on the day the proclamations were made at Mount Hermon who would not see death before they saw the Son of Man in His kingdom? 

Six days later Yeshua takes Kefa, Yaakov and Yochanan up into a high mountain where Yeshua was transfigured before them. Which mountain would that have been (Mat. 17:1-9). No doubt it was Mount Hermon. 

The Famous Transfiguration takes place on the demigods’ own soil. And the transfiguration we’re told involved Yeshua in some form of conversation with Moshe and Elijah. Now, many have downplayed this event as nothing more than a vision of Yeshua having a simple conversation with Moshe and Elijah and Peter, James and John were witnesses to that event. And that may or may not be true. 

But I submit that what Peter, James and John witnessed was something so much greater than a simple conversation between Moshe and Elijah. Could the Transfiguration been some form of supernatural ordination or ceremony foreshadowing the exaltation of Yeshua to His future office as our Cohen Gadol under the order of Melchizedek? 

And I would further submit that the Powers of Darkness saw this event take place on their sacred ground and they weren’t the least bit happy about it.

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Getting Rid of Yeshua—The Problem

 

Clearly by this point Yeshua had gotten on the enemy’s last nerve and they obviously began in earnest to get rid of Him. 

Yet they had no idea that their actions accelerate the downfall of their rule and the advent of the Kingdom of Yah. They got bested by the Creator of the Universe:

 

1 Cor. 2:7, 8“But we speak the wisdom of Elohim in a mystery, having been hidden, which Elohim ordained before the world for our glory, which none of the rulers of this age has known. For if they had known, they would not have crucified the Master of glory…”

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So the demigods had our Master crucified. And they attended the crucifixion to celebrate their handiwork. How do we know this. It was prophesied by David:

 

Psa. 22:12-19—”Many bulls have circled around Me; strong bulls of Bashan have surrounded Me. They opened their mouth on Me, like a lion ripping and roaring. I am poured out like waters, and all My bones are spread apart; My heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of My bowels. My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and My tongue clings to My jaws; and You appoint Me to the dust of death; for dogs have encircled Me; and band of spoilers have hemmed Me in, piercing My hands and My feet. I count all My bones; they look, they stare at Me. They divide My garments among them, and they made fall a lot for My clothing. But You, O Yahweh, be not far off; O My Strength, hurry to help Me!”

Call to Action 

Oh what our Master went through on our behalf. But praise be to Yah that Yeshua reigns victorious on our behalf. 

But we cannot be led to follow the false assumption that we don’t have a role to play in the overthrow of the Kingdom of Yah and the restoration of Paradise Lost. Because the truth of the matter is that we do have a significant role to play. 

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By virtue of our set-apart status, we are required to not only to defend ourselves against the attacks of the enemy, but we are also required to take the fight to the enemy. We cannot sit idly by and allow the enemy to steal, rob and to kill.  

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Ephesians 6:10-20–The Armor of God to Crush Through the Gates of Hell

Paul admonishes the Ephesians to be strengthened in Yahoshua and in His mighty power (vs. 10). Paul realized that we cannot stand against superhuman powers as flesh and blood. So we must rely upon the strength of our Master. This come through prayer as we will see (6:28).

Thus Paul instructs the Ephesians to put on the whole armor of Yah, which in effect Paul is instructing the Ephesians put n the “image of Elohim” (vs. 11).

The analogy that Paul employs here is astounding as he contrasts the elements of Yah’s spiritual armor against the “methodeia” or “tzentah” or strategies of the adversary.

Now the 4-pieces of armor described protect the disciple against the 4-principle strategies of hasatan. And the order in which Paul describes each piece corresponds to the 4-classes of demons or “shaida” mentioned in verse 12: (1)Rulers or Principalities; (2) Authorities or Powers; (3) “kosmokrator” or Possessors; and (4) Evil Spirits or Spiritual Wickedness (vs. 12).

Let’s look at each of these pieces as it relates to the prescription Paul gave to the Ephesians for battling against the enemy in Ephesus. Paul chose to order them from the perspective of the most vulnerable part the enemy will attack first, and then move on up to the strongest positions.

(1) The Belt of Truth protects the disciple against the lies and deceptions of the “possessors.”

(2) The Breastplate of Righteousness corresponds to protection against temptations and pride that spiritual “authorities” bring.

(3) The Shoes of Peace is intended to protect the disciple against oppression.

(4) The Helmet of Salvation is to defend against Principalities. Principalities bring about accusations.

 

 

 

The Book of Romans-To Whom Was It Written?

by | May 14, 2020 | Blog, Podcasts

To Whom Was The Book of Romans Written? Part 16 of the Paul and Hebrew Roots Series

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

 

Our Purpose for This Post

 

To whom was the Book of Romans Written?

We know quite a bit about the author. But we may not know much about the so-called Romans or the Roman Church. Unfortunately, our understanding of who they are may be influenced by our Western mindset. You see, we tend to have preconceived notion of what a Church is and what it looks like. Those preconceived notions may play right into our perceptions about the Roman Church of Paul’s day.

In this installment to our Paul and Hebrew Roots Series, we seek to identify Shaul’s (i.e., the Apostle Paul’s) original intended audience for his Letter to the Romans. 

It is important to establish right off the bat the identity of the original intended audience. For not knowing the original identity of the original intended audience adds to the difficulty to Shaul’s challenging writings. 

So then, a present day reader who reads Shaul’s epistles without establishing the letter’s original intended audience stands to misinterpret and or misunderstand some of the letters’ content. 

 

Need—Identify Who the Original Intended Audience Is

 

The Book of Romans-To Whom Was It Written?

Just reading the Title and the introduction to the Book of Romans does not reveal precisely to whom the Book of Romans was originally written. We must dig deeper.

Knowing to whom the Book of Romans was written helps us determine what content in the Cepher/Letter pertains specifically to Shaul’s original intended readers (in this case the Roman Kehila) and what content pertained to all the Kehilas the apostle oversaw.  

 

 

 

 

Determining the identity of Shaul’s original audience is equally important to our understanding of what content contained in the Cepher/Letter is and is not applicable to Messianics today.

 

Shaul’s Applicable Content Wrapped in the Identity of His Original Intended Audience

 

To begin with, some things Shaul wrote about were organizational and personal in nature. For these things did not apply to any persons or organizations outside the original addressees to his letter. 

Shaul’s restriction against women speaking in the Kehila is an excellent example of this. 

“Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law” (1 Cor. 14:34). 

Now, this restriction applied on to the Corinthian Messianic Assemblies at the time the apostle wrote it. It did not apply to any other kehilas the apostle oversaw. In general terms, this restriction does not apply to our assemblies today.

 

Shaul Wrote Evergreen and Non-Evergreen Content

 

Indeed, Shaul did write a great deal of evergreen content to the Kehilas (i.e., the churches) he oversaw. And this evergreen content carries with it universal application. These evergreen instructions span every region, time and audience. 

Case in point would be Shaul’s instruction to the same Corinthian Messianics to.

 “…keep the feast, not with old leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth” (1 Cor. 5:8). 

Conversely, instructions like the one restricting women speech in the Corinthian Kehilas addressed an emergent issue or situation within the original intended readers’ Kehila.

 

Normative Versus Restrictive Biblical Content

 

You may recall I previously introduced you to the “internal consistency” concept. Know that within that concept, the Berean-styled student of scripture is compelled to distinguish between “normative” and “restrictive” Scripture. 

“Normative” passages consist of universal, “evergreen content” that every true disciple of Yeshua should heed and apply to their respective walks with Mashiyach. 

Conversely, “restrictive” passages consist of regional, original addressee-specific content that may not apply to any of the other assemblies Shaul oversaw; or for that matter, would not apply to Messianics today.

 

Is Restrictive Content of any Use Today?

 

Are “restrictive” passages then of any significance to present day disciples of Mashiyach? Absolutely! 

Just as we find certain Torah commandments do not apply to Messianics today, those same non-applicable commandments may have important spiritual applications attached to them. 

Step back for just a second to the example of Shaul instructing that the Corinthian women (or woman) be silent in the assemblies. If a similar situation of trouble-making women (and or men for that matter) were to erupt in one’s kehila today, then this instruction applies.

 

Our Hebraic Focus for This Study

 

As we progress in our study of Romans, I want you to keep in mind that we will be looking at the epistle’s contents from a multi-layered cultural—Hebraic—historic—geographical perspective. Thus, in preparation for this study, I’ve tapped a few of the best contemporary Messianic teachers around to help fill in where my understanding and knowledge is lacking. 

 

Contrary to Mainstream Belief Shaul Did Not Establish the Kehila in Rome

 

It must be understood early on here in our study of Romans that Shaul did not establish the Kehila at Rome. In fact, Shaul himself made note that he had been hindered getting to Rome and he desperately desired to visit their Kehila (1:11, 13, 15).

“For I long to see you, so that I might share with you some spiritual gift that can make you stronger…I want you to know that although I have been prevented from visiting you until now, I have often planned to do so, in order that I might have some fruit among you…therefore I am eager to proclaim the Good News also to you who live in Rome” (CJB). 

 

Who Then Founded the Roman Kehila?

 

The truth of the matter is Roman Jews and Proselytes established the Roman Kehila. And these were likely eyewitnesses to the Great Outpouring of the Ruach HaKodesh on Shavuot (Acts 2) 10-days after Yeshua ascended to heaven. 

“Now there were staying in Yerushalayim religious Jews from every nation under heaven. When they heard this sound, a crowd gathered; they were confused, because each one heard the believers speaking in his own language. Totally amazed, they asked, ‘How is this possible? Aren’t all these people who are speaking from the Galil? How is it that we hear them speaking in our native languages? We are…visitors from Rome; Jews by birth and proselytes…How is it that we hear them speaking in our own languages about the great things God has done?” (vss. 5-11; CJB). 

These supposed Roman Kehila founders were members of the 3,000 converted Shavuot (i.e., Pentecost) attendees from that day. And upon returning to Rome after their historic encounter with the Spirit of YHVH, their life-changing testimony birthed the Roman Kehila.

 

The Roman Kehila Gentiles

 

Since first-century Rome was a major regional melting pot, there is no doubt that the Roman Kehila consisted of a great many Gentile converts as well. Thus, Shaul had an invested interest to explain to the Kehila’s members the Gentile’s set-apart status in the Faith (chapters 9-11).  

Despite the fact that Shaul did not establish the Roman Kehila, we must consider that the individuals Shaul sends his greetings to in chapter 16 were leaders and teachers of the Roman Kehilas. Moreover, these accomplished women and men of the Gospel were originally discipled and mentored by Shaul throughout the apostle’s evangelical career. These in turn taught, admonished and helped grow the Roman Kehila over several years. 

Therefore, in a sense, one could say that Shaul oversaw the Roman Kehila despite not being its original founder.

 

Was Paul’s Intended Audience Home Churches—Fellowships? 

J. K. McKee (a prolific Messianic apologist and author) contends that a number of home congregations or fellowships made up the Roman Kehila. 

Interestingly enough, Shaul never describes his readers as the “church in Rome.” Indeed, given the sheer number of Messianics in Shaul’s Rome, it was not possible for the whole kehila to meet in any one place. Thus, we can conclude that there was no single group of Messianics in Rome. 

According to James R. Edwards (New Testament scholar and Professor of Theology at Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington): 

“It is clear that Romans is addressed to a predominantly Gentile congregation, though one in which a significant Jewish element was present.” 

I personally believe there is some truth to both McKee’s and Edwards’ assertions about the Roman Kehila. However, I believe their assertions are weak (anemic) in describing the true nature and make-up of the Roman Kehila.

 

Was Paul’s Intended Audience Roman Messianics Attending Roman Synagogues?

 

Tim Hegg (prolific author and President of the Torah Resource Institute) places a tremendous amount of emphasis in Rome’s established synagogal system. Rome’s synagogues would have provided the platform by which Roman Messianic worship and teaching would primarily take place. 

Hegg cites James D. Dunn (a New Testament scholar at the University of Durham in England): 

“…to be able to assume such a knowledge of the scriptures as Paul does in Romans he would have to assume that his readership by and large had enjoyed a substantial link with the synagogues in Rome” (Word Biblical Commentary: Romans).  

Now, Hegg goes on to postulate in his commentary that Shaul was writing to a “synagogue community” in Rome that was part of a larger Jewish community. 

I fully support Mr. Hegg in his assessment that the Roman Kehila was primarily synagogue-based and that Shaul’s original intended readers were in fact members of the Nazarene Jewish-sect.

 

The Role the Jerusalem Council Played in the Roman Kehila Formation

 

James the Just (half-brother of Yeshua and leader of the Yerushalayim Council) sent forth the following edict to all existing Messianic Assemblies: 

“For from the earliest times, Moshe has had in every city those who proclaim him, with his words being read in the synagogues every Shabbat…it seemed good to the Ruach HaKodesh and to us not to lay any heavier burden on you than the following requirements: to abstawin from what has been sacrificed to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from fornication. If you keep yourselves from these, you will be doing the right thing. Shalom!” (Act. 15:21-29). 

This is critical information to tuck away in our minds and hearts. For the Yerushalayim Council’s edict describes perfectly the Roman Kehila situation of Shaul’s day. We cannot identify the Roman Kehila as anything other than a true Messianic-sect of Judaism. 

 

Shaul Lavishes the Roman Kehila With Broad-Brushed Titles

 

So at this point, we have established up to this point that the original intended audience for the Cepher to the Romans were Nazarene-Netzari-Messianic Jews and Gentiles. These participated in Jewish worship and received Torah instruction through the synagogal system, as well as many extended their worship and learning over into home-fellowships. 

The apostle’s intended Roman audience was is identified as holding to the true Faith introduced to them by the original witnesses to the Shavuot (i.e., Pentecost) event in Yerushalayim 3-decades prior (Acts 2). Additionally, the Roman Kehila received teachings from the large cast of teachers, preachers and leaders listed in chapter 16. 

However, Shaul identifies these Messianics using spiritual titles and responsibilities.

 

Obedient to the Faith

The Roman Kehila is called to “obedience of the Faith” in Yeshua’s Name among the Gentile nations of the world (vss. 5, 6; NKJV). 

 

Beloved of God

 

Shaul called the members of the Roman Kehila “beloved of YHVH” (verse 7). 

In the Greek, beloved of God is “agapetois theou.” The “agapetois” denotes someone who is dear to someone. And that someone is YHVH. In fact, the term is applied to a special choice or selection of the Most High (Mat. 3:17). 

Throughout Scripture Father referred to Israel as His beloved, despite the nation’s rejection of Yeshua as their Mashiyach (11:28). 

So, when we are talking about Israel from the standpoint of being “Yah’s beloved,” we are really talking about a group of individuals who have been designated or elected for the Father’s sovereign purpose and will. 

Tim Hegg notes that the focus of the phrase “beloved of Yah” is that of Yah’s love for His elect, as opposed to the Roman Kehila’s love for YHVH. It is clear that Yah’s love for His chosen ones always precedes the elects’ love for Yah. For the Apostle John affirms for us that Yah loved us before we could love Him (1 John 4:19). 

We find most prominently featured in the Brit haDashah, Abba calling Yahoshua “my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Mat. 3:17; 17:5).

 

Saints

 

Shaul referred to the Roman Kehila as “saints.” 

The term or title “saints” is the same as “holy” (Gr. “Agios”), which means to be “marked off, separate, withdrawn from common use” (Tim Hegg). 

When we call a certain group of individuals saints, we are declaring them to as “holy.”  Such individuals possess a relationship with the Almighty that is special, unlike any in the world. 

When we meditate on what it means to be holy or to be a saint, we are essentially meditating on the “holiness of YHVH”. That holiness is an absolute attribute specific to YHVH. And Yah requires His people—His “elect” or “chosen ones”–possess and demonstrate this same attribute. 

The existence of this attribute in the life of a Child of Yah is indicative of Yah’s absolute authority. For Yah is saying to us: I am this way (i.e., holy). You must be the same way. 

As it is carried over onto the intended reader of Shaul’s letter to the Romans, Shaul is writing to those who have been called by the holy God—YHVH. These individuals are thus holy by virtue of that calling.

 

Call to Action

 

I would ask you, in anticipation of our next installment to this series, to meditate on the identities of the original intended audience for this Book to the Romans. 

Think about the connection that the Roman Kehila had with the Hebrew or Jewish Community in first-century Roman. Consider what obedience to the Faith meant to Shaul, the Roman Kehila and to you. Meditate on what it means to be “beloved of YHVH” and what it means to be a “saint.” 

Until next time, may you be most blessed fellow saints in training. Shalom.

The Book of Romans-What it is and What it is Not–Part 15 of the Paul and Hebrew Roots Series

The Book of Romans-What it is and What it is Not–Part 15 of the Paul and Hebrew Roots Series

by | Apr 30, 2020 | Blog, Podcasts

The Book of Romans-What it is and What it is Not--Part 15 of the Paul and Hebrew Roots Series

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Looking Back 

If you’ve been following me for any length of time, you may recall that I began a series entitled “Paul and Hebrew Roots” in the fall of 2018. In addition, with the completion of my discussion on Paul’s view of woman leaders in the Faith in September of 2019 (Part-14 of the series), I put the series on somewhat of a hiatus, fully intending to resume the series in short order. 

You may also recall that I embarked on this series because I had received so many inquiries about certain challenging and difficult Pauline passages. These passages seemed to oppose the Hebraic/Messianic/Netzari lifestyle or Torah keeping by Yah’s Set-Apart people. 

However, while I was a few episodes into the series, questions regarding Paul’s view of women in Messianic and church leadership roles caused me to shift the course of the series. Therefore, I veered away from a general discussion of Paul’s difficult and challenging writings for a detailed study of Paul’s true view of women in the Messianic Faith.

 We’re Resuming the Paul and Hebrew Roots Series

Well, today we will resume the series as promised and get back on our original intended course. Moreover, needless to say, we have a lot of ground to cover for the duration of this series. 

Therefore, my focus in this series will now turn to Shaul’s (i.e., Paul’s) Cepher (i.e., the Book, Letter, Epistle or Scroll) to the Romans. In addition, over the next several installments of this series, we will identify, dissect and attempt to accurately interpret (i.e., explain) some of the more challenging and unclear passages of Romans.

 Paul Is Often Hard to Understand

Regarding those annoying, challenging and unclear Pauline writings that we’ve all come to love and hate, the Apostle Kefa (i.e., Peter) wrote in his general epistle: 

“And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation. Even as our beloved brother Paul, also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you. As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things (i.e., that which was formerly written by the Set-Apart prophets and the commandment of Yahoshua; and the end times 3:2), in which are some things hard to be understood. Which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction” (2 Pet. 3:15, 16; KJV).

 

So even Shaul’s apostolic colleague recognized contemporaneously, that Shaul’s readers might have some difficulties understanding some of the things Shaul wrote. This tells us that Kefa himself had to have read some of Shaul’s writings and thought to himself, “What in the world?”

 Paul was Unique and Brilliant

Let us remember (and I mentioned this in my portrait of Shaul, the man and the apostle, the first couple episodes of the Paul and Hebrew Roots series), that Shaul was indeed a unique, complex and brilliant servant of YHVH. He obviously was operating on a different plain than his apostolic colleagues. 

However, just because some of Shaul’s writings are a bit challenging and difficult to understand doesn’t mean we can’t accurately understand them. For with a little spiritual and mental hard work, we most assuredly can accurately understand them. 

Why Resume The Paul and Hebrew Roots Series? 

Why are we doing this? Well, we’re doing this for a few reasons, some of which I went into detail when we first launched this Paul and Hebrew Roots Series. Moreover, if by chance you either are new to this program, or were not able to listen to any of the segments to the series, I would humbly encourage you to do so when you get the chance. (I’ll go ahead put the link to this show’s index page here in the show notes where you can select whichever installment of the series you want to listen to for your convenience.) 

But suffice to say, one of the greatest points of division that exists between the Hebrew Roots/Messianic/Netzari Community and our cousins in fundamental/traditional/charismatic Christianity. These points of division are doctrinal and theological teachings that are based upon a scandalous misinterpretation or misrepresentation of Shaul’s (i.e., Paul’s) writings. In addition, let’s not mince words here. We’re talking primarily about areas of Paul’s writings where Paul addresses issues and topics related specifically to Torah.

 A Lot of Work Ahead of Us

Now, we’re going to look at a great number of interesting and challenging Romans passages covering a whole host of topics and issues; not just his pesky and confusing passages on Torah. And the ultimate goals of this series are:

(1) To help us better understand various aspects of our Set-Apart walk with Messiah that were uniquely revealed to the Apostle to the Gentiles by our Master Yahoshua Messiah.

And (2) to help correct and or dispel some of the confusion that surrounds some of Paul’s challenging and or more difficult passages. 

I have to say that I am very excited to be taking this journey with you. And the reason I’m so excited about resuming this series is simply that much of what most of us know of the Book to the first-century Roman Messianics, is from a Christian—Trinitarian—Grace-only—Pre-Tribulation—Secret Rapture—dare I say Anti-Semitic—Replacement Theology perspective. So with all the advancements our Faith Community has made in our understanding of the Hebrew culture, history, geography and language, it seems about time we stop embracing the worn-out, tired old westernized brand of Pauline Christianity. 

Starting Out With The Epistle To The Romans 

To get this party started, so to speak, I’ve elected to begin with the Book of Romans. 

As it relates to our study of Romans, we are going to conduct more of a “topic or issue” study than a chapter-by-chapter, verse-by-verse study of the book. Therefore, we will only examine those passages that present unique challenges to our Faith Community and or that highlight unique aspects to our Messianic Set-Apart lifestyle. 

Let us not forget that the series title remains “Paul and Hebrew Roots.” Therefore, we will only be interested in discussing those topics and issues contained in Romans that present particular challenges and insight into important aspects of our Faith.  

Setting the Tone—What is the Book to the Romans? 

So let’s get started by setting the tone for our study. 

To begin with, no Torah Observant Disciple of Yeshua Messiah should pick up the Book of Romans (or any other Pauline epistle) and simply start reading it without first coming to terms with what it is he or she is actually reading. For I can tell you (and you should inherently know this) that Romans is not like the books of Torah; nor the books of the prophets; nor the writings such as Psalms and Proverbs; nor the Gospels.

Romans and Paul’s other letters, are simply ancient letters. An ancient writer wrote these letters. Paul addressed his letters to a specific ancient reader(s). He wrote these letters in response to topics or issues that came to his attention. Plain and simple. Moreover, we will see that contrary to what most Christian scholars and teachers and preachers contend Romans is not a theological framework upon which to establish and maintain a Church organization.

 

Setting the Tone—The Reader of Romans Must Desire More Information 

If the Set-Apart truth-seeker truly desires to arrive at an accurate understanding of the Book of Romans, he or she must gain as much background information about Paul and his original readers as possible. 

Setting the Tone—Rejecting Laziness 

The only way for the Messianic Truth-Seeker to gain a true understanding of those challenging and difficult Roman passages is to reject/fight against biblical laziness. What I mean by this is that he or she must learn to appreciate the art of digging deep. Bottom line: we must overcome Biblical illiteracy at every level possible. 

Allow me to explain. Many of us in this Set-Apart Faith can’t stand having to reference/or read other scriptural passages and verses that are not our specific focus passages or verses. Just tell us what our focus passage or verse means. Right? 

However, such an attitude should not get in the way of our search for Truth. For as a Torah Observant Disciple of Yeshua Messiah, we are required to dig deep.

 The Importance of the Whole of Scripture to Study

Recall our Master Yeshua who taught the two disciples on the Road to Emmaus of Himself through what means? Luke records that means: 

“And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself” (Luke 24:27; ESV). 

Therefore, our Master used the whole of Scripture to teach his disciples about Himself. 

We have the example of Shaul delivering the Gospel to the Bereans, who before accepting the Apostle’s teachings: 

“…received the Word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things (i.e., the Words/teachings of Shaul) were so” (Acts 17:11; ESV). 

Thus, we have to somehow get beyond our biblical laziness and search the whole of Scriptures if we intend to take our learning to the next level. 

Therefore, our study will be at times, Scripture intensive.

 

Setting the Tone—The Five-Elements That Lead to True Biblical Understanding 

In addition, this leads me to what I call the five-elements that lead to true Biblical understanding. You see, we have a tendency to read passages from, not just Romans, but all the other books of the bible in scriptural “sound-bites” (i.e., isolated passages) . When we do that and fail to take into account these elements, we stand the high risk of misinterpreting or misunderstanding that passage. 

Why would I say such a thing? Well, I say this because Romans, and the other books of the bible, are ancient documents from a foreign, ancient culture and people that are very unfamiliar to most of us today. These documents are in most cases missing a great amount of background information. Consequently modern readers must grab hold of and understand those missing bits of background information. 

Therefore, the five-elements that lead to biblical understanding are:

(1) Context: that linkage involving the chapter itself; the book itself; the testament; and the whole bible.

(2) History: the specific history of the writer and his audience.

(3) Language: being able to understand specifics related to the Greek-Hebrew-Aramaic words used by the author.

(4) Geography: not always pertinent, but sometimes relevant when travel and locations referenced in our focus passages.

In addition (5) culture: the specific culture of the writer and his audience. 

Setting the Tone—Romans Was Not Written to Modern Messianics 

I am sorry to inform you that we (modern-day Messianic or Christian alike) were NOT Shaul’s intended audience, despite doctrinal and theological teachings to the contrary. We happen to be beneficiaries of the information that Shaul passed on to His Roman Messianic Assembly readers. Like anything else when it comes to bible study: the information we come across which was not originally addressed to us, must always be understood from the perspective of the writer and his original readers. 

We have to recognize that Paul did not address his writings to 21st century Christians and Messianics. They were not. We are blessed that these documents, through the grace of Yah, were saved and passed down to us over the centuries. In addition, we benefit from these ancient letters because contained within them is the Words of YHVH and the teachings of Yeshua our Mashiyach. In addition, we will maintain this mindset throughout our study of the Book of Romans. 

If Not Intended For Us, What Then is the Epistle to the Romans? 

Unfortunately, many church leaders, and not too few Messianics, treat the Letter to the Romans as some sort of theological treatise and NOT what it truly is. What do I mean by theological treatise? Well, a theological treatise is simply a “formal” document that identifies, presents the facts, and puts forth a conclusion on a specific issue or topic. And the conventional  thinking by many in the so-called church is that Paul’s epistles are theological treatises. In other words, Paul decided one day to sit down and write out his thoughts on various and sundry Christian-related issues. He then sent those thoughts on over to the Roman Assemblies for their reference.

 Romans is Not a Church Organization Manual

In fact, many see the Book of Romans as some form of Christian-living manual. Thus, according to such individuals, any well-intended believer who seeks to live a sound Christian-life would be compelled to go to the Book of Romans (and other Pauline writings) to learn about topics and issues common to Pauline Christianity. 

Moreover, although there is a slight degree of truth to this understanding of the Book of Romans, the truth of the matter is that it is NOT a theological treatise. Romans is in fact a letter written by the Apostle Paul specifically to first-century A.D. Roman Messianic Believers. Moreover, this letter addresses certain relevant, contemporaneous issues and topics that are specific to the first-century Roman Messianic Assemblies.

 Paul: A Cause and Effects Kind of Guy 

You see, since beginning this series in 2018, I’ve come to a clear understanding that Shaul was a “cause and effects kind of guy.” Something(s) happened. That something(s) comes to Shaul’s attention. Then Shaul responded by addressing that something(s) in the form of a letter. So apart from the Book to the Hebrews (which is in a sense a theological treatise that many scholars attribute to Paul), none of Paul’s epistles are theological treatises. You see, Shaul wrote as he was moved to do so (i.e., the Holy Spirit) in response to ongoing or contemporaneous issues that were adversely affecting the assemblies he oversaw. 

Now, none of this is to say that Shaul does not use the opportunities afforded him in his various epistles to expound upon theological matters. Clearly he does this on a frequent basis. However, his writings are in response to the specific issues and topics that his Roman Messianic readers were experiencing. 

Romans Must Be Viewed as a Historical Document Containing Essential Spiritual Truths 

Thus Romans, as in all of the remaining Pauline epistles, must be viewed as an ancient historical document, first and foremost. 

However, I would take this statement one-step further if you please. Romans is an ancient historical document that contains essential spiritual truths. 

As it relates to the historical nature of Romans, Douglas J. Moo (New Testament professor at Wheaton College), in his article entitled “The Epistle to the Romans” (New International Commentary on the New Testament) wrote: 

“Like every book in the NT, Romans is rooted in history. It is not a systematic theology but a letter, written in specific circumstances and with specific purposes…to understand its message aright, we must appreciate the specific context out of which Romans was written.”

 Next Time 

Well, this is a good place to stop for now. In addition, we will pick this study up in our next installment of The Messianic Torah Observer, Abba willing. 

In our next post we will examine who the Book of Romans was addressed to. For there are some essential facts as it relates to Paul’s Roman audience that every Messianic who studies Romans must be cognizant of if he or she is to truly understand what Shaul was trying to convey to his Roman Messianic Readers. 

And of course, at anytime during this series you have a specific passage of Romans that you want us to discuss, shoot me a message using any of the contact platforms we have available on our website themessianictorahobserver.org. 

Otherwise, we will simply go through The Book of Romans in chapter sequence. 

Until next time, may you be most blessed, fellow saints in training. Shalom. Take care.

The Niddah Laws–Still in Effect Today ?

by | Apr 23, 2020 | Blog, Podcasts

The Niddah Laws--Still in Effect Today?

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

The Question of Niddah 

One question that seems to pop-up a lot from members of our Faith Community has to do with the Laws related to Niddah. Are the laws of Niddah still valid for today’s Torah Observant Disciples of Yeshua Messiah?

And in case you aren’t familiar with this Hebrew term, “Niddah” (“separated”) has to do with ordinances or statutes in Torah that governed Hebrew behavior in the midst of a woman’s menstrual periods.

Consequently, many (especially women) who transition into our Faith Community inevitably come across this issue.

So the purpose of this installment of the Messianic Torah Observer is to:

(1) Biblically define what it means to be Niddah.

(2) Distinguish between what is biblical and what is Rabbinic in regards to Niddah.

And (3), clarify whether or not the laws (the mitzvoth) pertaining to Niddah remains in effect for Netzari/Messianics/Hebrew Rooters today.

Father’s Torah

As true Torah Observant Disciples of Yeshua Messiah, we must always remain vigilant and diligent in keeping our Father’s commandments or instructions. We refer to those instructions and commandments as Torah. These are contained in the first 5-books of the Old Testament. And these make-up the basis by which we live and walk out our Faith.

Types of Torah Instructions

Despite our belief in the whole of content and context of Scripture, it is vitally important that every Netzarim/Messianic/Hebrew Rooter recognize the classes of commandments and instructions contained therein.

Father Himself differentiated the elements of His Torah into specific classes (cf. Nehemiah 9:14):

(1) Commandments—Mitzvah; the root being Tsavah, which means to lay a charge upon; to command; to give an order; to appoint. (These tend to include universal instructions related to righteousness, Godly behavior such as seen in the 10-Commandments.)

(2) Statutes or Ordinances—Choq or Chuqqah; decrees; requirements; boundaries that are set by the Creator. Even the customs and manners that make up our Faith (e.g., Niddah). (These tend to include instructions surrounding Tabernacle/Temple worship.)

(3) Judgments—Mishpat; a decision in Law; a legal right or provision; what to do when something happens. (These are provisions that are situational and may or may not apply to us today. It just depends on the situation. Such as cases of negligence.)

(4) Laws—Torah, which tends to be inclusive of all the above.

Just Because It’s In Torah Doesn’t Mean It is Still Applicable 

So when it comes to certain provisions in Torah such as Niddah, we must ascertain what the provision actually means and when and how it is applicable. Unfortunately, Niddah is one of those provisions that are contradictory as it relates to its applicability and validity to our Faith Community today.

What I mean is that there are certain aspects of the statute or ordinance of Niddah that are applicable today, as well as other aspects that do not apply today. Don’t worry. I’ll elaborate in just a moment.

Considerations When Addressing the Issue of Niddah 

There are a few things we must be cognizant of when we’re addressing the issue of Niddah.

The first thing is determining exactly what Niddah is biblically about (i.e., how Scripture defines the ordinance).

Secondly, we need to determine, biblically, whether the whole ordinance or just aspects of the ordinance apply to us today. In particular, we want to determine the essential balance of Ruach (I.e., Spirit) and Truth.

Lastly, we then need to simply walk out the Word with joy, peace, reverence and steadfastness; in Spirit and in Truth.

Determining Current Day Applicability of Niddah 

Despite Niddah being one of those hybrid Torah ordinances (ie., aspects of the ordinance still apply while other aspect don’t apply), biblically determining the applicability of these ordinances is quite easy. It simply requires we look at this thing from a biblically holistic standpoint. That is, we are compelled to consider the whole of Scripture within the scope of history, culture, and internal textual context. As well as, we must be of the mind to accept and obey the Truth of Yah’s Word when it is made known to us.  

Niddah and The Cepher of Leviticus

Let’s first define the ordinances/statutes related to Niddah. These ordinances or statutes are found in the Cepher (i.e., Book) of Leviticus or Vayikra. And take note that whenever we are studying Leviticus, we must keep in mind that this cepher or book is primarily dealing with the rites associated with Tabernacle and Temple Worship.

In particular, we’re talking about instructions governing:

  • Sacrifices and offerings;
  • How the Levitical Priests were to conduct worship;
  • Purity regulations for men and women;
  • Regulations for the Feasts and seasons of YHVH.

 

Purity and Tabernacle Worship 

These all relate in some way or another to Tabernacle and Temple worship. Although, mind you, these and other elements contained in the Book of Leviticus are NOT solely restricted to Tabernacle and Temple worship.

For example, in we find in Leviticus 23, Father provides us His appointed Feasts and Seasons. Within this chapter, Father gives us specifics regarding the keeping of the Feasts as it relates to Tabernacle worship (such as the required sacrifices and offerings for each occasion). Also contained within this chapter are specific instructions for us to do certain things for each occasion (such as do not servile work and convene a holy convocation) that are not necessarily tied to Tabernacle worship.

So we must be able to place each instruction into its proper biblical context.

Niddah and Worship at the Tabernacle/Temple 

And as it relates to the ordinances surrounding Niddah, we’re primarily (and I stress primarily) looking at how a woman’s monthly cycle affects her (and in some cases, her husband’s) ability to worship at the Tabernacle or Temple.

The Torah passages that define and address Niddah are contained in Leviticus (Vayikra) chapters 15 and 20.

Leviticus 15 Overview 

Leviticus 15 addresses regulations concerning bodily discharges which places affected man or woman into the ritually “impure” or “unclean” (Heb is tame’) category as it relates to his or her eligibility to worship at the Tabernacle or Temple. The first 18-verses of the chapter address the statutes related specifically to bodily discharges of men.

Then in verses 19-33, Father instructs that both the affected woman and anyone else who comes in physical contact with her during the time of her menstrual period be deemed as unclean for specified periods of time. In particular, the woman is in a state of ritual impurity from the start of her period until it ends. And when that period ends, she remains in a state of impurity for 7-days thereafter. Then, she is to wash her clothes and bathe (i.e., mikvahed). Afterward she was required to present 2-turtle doves or 2-pigeons to a Levitical Priest at the door of the Tabernacle. One of the birds would serve as a sin offering and the other a burnt offering. And upon the completion of these things, the woman would no longer be Niddah. Instead, the woman would be deemed ritually “pure” or “clean (taher).”

(This was only a rough overview of the chapter. For specifics, please study the chapter for yourself.)

Niddah From the Perspective of Ritual Purity 

Now, bear in mind that we have just looked at Niddah from the biblical perspective of the woman (and anyone who comes in physical contact with her at the time) being in a state of ritual impurity or uncleanness. This is very important to understand. For understanding the concept of taher and tame (purity/cleanness versus impurity/uncleanness) helps us recognize which Torah statutes and ordinances are still in effect today.

Niddah: A Case For Context and History 

How so? Because at the time these ordinances or statutes were given, the Tabernacle, soon to be Temple was in existence and in operation. And if you were deemed unclean/impure, you were not permitted to worship at the Tabernacle or Temple. As it relates to us today, the Temple no longer exists nor is it in operation. Thus, those statutes or ordinances defining the cleanliness or purity of a person of Faith for purposes of Tabernacle or Temple worship no longer applies to us.

So then, does this mean that all of the biblical statutes or ordinances surrounding Niddah do not apply to Messianics today? Well, from a ritual purity standpoint, the ordinances regarding Niddah do not apply to us today. Why? Because our purity is now determined by the shed blood of our Master Yahoshua Messiah. We are deemed pure in the sight of our Creator because of the work and agency of Yeshua our Master.

Cleansed From Our Impurities 

The Apostle Yochanan wrote in his first general epistle:

 

“If we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Yeshua Messiah His Son cleanseth us from all sin…Therefore, if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1:7; KJV).

 

The Applicable Side to the Niddah Question 

However, we are not in the least done with the subject of Niddah. Because there is at least one aspect of Niddah, that still applies to us today. And we’ll see here very quickly, what that applicable aspect is.

Let’s go back briefly to the Cepher of Leviticus, chapter 20. And we will see in this chapter Father addresses certain behaviors that violate the Holiness Laws of Torah.

(Now keep this in mind. When we’re talking about being in a state of Holiness, we’re talking about being set-apart unto Yehovah for His special purposes; to be used of Yah; to be loved by Yah as His special possession.)

And yes, there are several things covered in this chapter that disqualified the Hebrew from being holy unto YHVH.

Niddah and Holiness 

One of those disqualifying things has to do with Hebrew couples engaging in sexual intercourse during the time of a woman’s menstrual period.

We find in verse 18 the following:

 

“If a man lies with a woman during her menstrual period and uncovers her nakedness (i.e., he engages in sexual intercourse with her), he has made naked her fountain, and she has uncovered the fountain of her blood. Both of them shall be cut off from among their people (i.e., tossed out of the community)” (ESV).

 

What we see in this single verse is a prohibition from married couples engaging in sexual relations during the time of the wife’s menstrual period. Although such an instruction touches on ritualistic purity concerns, the true application of this ordinance or statute is an abstinence from intimacy during the menstrual period.

Obvious Concern For Health 

The concern here is the exposure of both the husband and woman to blood.

One aspect that must be factored into our understanding of this ordinance has to do with sanitation and health concerns for the congregation. And this one of many instructions concerned with keeping the congregation of Israel in pristine health. For Yah placed within the woman this biological process to accomplish a purpose. And certain activities such as intimacy are not to interfere with this process.

Rabbinic Influences Related to Niddah 

Now, the one thing that we must be cognizant of when it comes to our obedience to certain biblical ordinances is the ever-present influence of Rabbinic laws and traditions that surround those ordinances. For indeed, Rabbinic laws and traditions have completely placed a hedge around the biblical ordinances of Niddah. This means, of course, that those of us who do not have a solid contextual, Yeshua-focused understanding of the various ordinances of Torah, are easy prey for such Rabbinic laws.

Indeed, mainstream Judaism added extra-biblical commandments to the Niddah ordinances. Thus, Rabbinic traditions and laws in effect violate Deuteronomy 4:2:

 

“You shall not add to the Word that I command you…”

 

Yes indeed, Rabbinic Judaism has not disappointed in their incessant tinkering of Yah’s Torah. For she has put into effect a whole set of detailed laws and teachings surrounding the ordinances of Niddah. And their laws and traditions in many places supersede or override the simple instructions of Father’s Torah.

For instance, Rabbinic Judaism has added detailed, robust instructions on the ritual bathing (mikveh) that Niddah women must undergo. As well as their laws stipulate the requirement for spouses to take up residence in separate quarters during the time of the woman’s menstrual period.

I won’t magnify the teachings of the Rabbis here by going anymore into detail.

So What Now? 

Suffice to say brethren: the ritualistic aspects of the Niddah ordinances no longer apply to today’s Messianics. Such that if anyone comes into physical contact with a Netzari woman during her menstrual period, he or she will not lose their purity in the sight of our Creator. That purity is cemented through the sacrifice of Yeshua Messiah.

However, what this ritualistic ordinance does remind us is that we must always be on guard to live holy and righteous lives so that we do not sully our spiritual garments and taint our presence before the Almighty.

Suffice to say brethren: the ordinance prohibiting intimacy during the spouse’s menstrual period is still very much in effect. There are obvious sanitation concerns and general deportment issues that make this aspect of Niddah of relevance today.

It was the Jerusalem Council that wrote that gentle Messianics were to abstain from “things polluted by idols, and from sexual immorality, and from what has been strangled and from blood” (Act. 15:20). Thus, we are required to not engage in marital intimacy at the time of our spouse’s menstrual period.

I pray that this brief discussion has clarified things for you and that you will conduct your own in-depth study on this and other subjects related to our set-apart walk with Yeshua Messiah.

And then it behooves us as Torah Observant Disciples of Yeshua Messiah to trust and obey.

Until next time, may you be most blessed, fellows Saints in Training. Shalom.

Mark of the Beast: What Are You Going To Do When They Come For You?

Mark of the Beast: What Are You Going To Do When They Come For You?

by | Apr 17, 2020 | Blog, Podcasts

Mark of the Beast-What Are You Going To Do When They Come For You?

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

This is, “The Mark of the Beast: What Are You Going To Do When They Come For You.”

 

The Question is: What are you going to do when they (the power-brokers with the mark) come for you?

 

We will apply the question of “What are you going to do when they come for you?” to this present world health crisis. I’m not so much interested in creating dialogue around what appears to be looming ahead in the coming months for every well-meaning Torah Observant Disciple in Yeshua Messiah. Instead, I’m interested in convincing every Torah Observant Disciple in Yeshua Messiah to start thinking. As well, I’m praying that the elect start planning for what appears to be dark days ahead for members of our beloved Faith.

 Not About The Validity of the Current Pandemic

And just to clarify: this is not a commentary on whether or not the present health crisis is real. This is not about whether or not this thing was intentionally created and spread by any government. And this is certainly not about whether or not our governments are properly handling the situation. 

I recognize there is something out there: I’ve had distant members of my family as well as friends affected by this thing. But I also understand that this thing must be looked at by people of Faith with proper biblical, spiritual and commonsense perspective. And I’ll leave it at that.

 

 A Power Broker’s Proposal to Combat the Current Pandemic:

According to Bill Gates (allegedly), founder of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation:

“Eventually we will have some digital certificates to show who has recovered or been tested recently or when we have a vaccine who has received it.”

This quote came from Laura Ingraham’s interview with U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr on Fox News Channel. Essentially, Ingraham asked Attorney Barr his opinion on the virtue of  implementing a tracking system in this country. It would be presumed that this sytem would track citizens who are immune to the virus. Thus, the system would  by default single out those who cannot certify they have immunity to the disease. 

The Importance of Such a Proposal to People of the True Faith:

Such a thing becomes quite relevant to Bible believers who are familiar with the well recognized prophecy of the Mark of the Beast. This prophecy is recorded in the Book of Revelation.

The Apostle John records:

“And he (the 2nd Beast)  causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: …that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. Here is wisdom. Let him that has understanding calculate the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is 666” (13:16-18; Cepher).

Is a tracking system such as that which Bill Gates, and others like him, what this Book of Revelation prophecy portends?  

Is The Proposal Fulfillment of Biblical Prophecy? 

There’s absolutely no way that we can say for certainty that this present situation will lead to the ominous Mark of the Beast system. 

However, what the Mark of the Beast prophecy does do is it provides a stern warning to those for whom the Revelation of Yahoshua haMashiyach was written (Revelation 1:3).

Taking a Serious Look at the Mark of the Beast Prophecy in Light of the Proposal

In other words, Mr. Gates’ alleged proposal may or may not be valid. Nevertheless, a number of self-professing “thinkers” are indeed proposing the same sort of thing Mr. Gates is alleged to have proposed. This being the case then, it behooves us to take a serious look at the Johnannine prophecy of the Mark of the Beast. I believe we must determine for ourselves what we’re going to do when they (the powers that be) come or us.

Which God Do We Serve

It further behooves the disciple of Messiah to determine right now which God he or she will serve if indeed Bill Gates’ alleged proposal were to come to fruition. Will he or she feel compelled to submit to the requirements of the “god” state? Would he or she freely take the tracker implanted in or on their person so that he or she may buy and or sell? Or will he or she reject the tracking system but remain true to their profession of Faith?

 

The Proposal Sounds Very Much Like An Iteration of the Mark of the Beast 

Most of us recognize the looming situation every Torah Observant Disciple of Yeshua Messiah is likely to face if such a mandated vaccination and tracking system were to be put in place in the Western Nations of this world.

I have come upon recent teachings on the subject of the Mark of the Beast that seems to have gotten a lot of traction of late. Under this recent teaching, those who received the Mark of the Beast are believed to have received some form of alteration to their biological make-up. That alteration results in the individual  becoming a hybrid: part human and part machine.

But I’m wondering, with this latest proposal, if the hybrid thinkers are rethinking their hypotheses on the subject of the Mark of the Beast?

I’ve always believed that the Mark of the Beast would be some form of artificial marker placed either on or within the individual receiving the mark. Under that paradigm the only reason given by the Beast Government for receiving the “Mark” was political. It would be to distinguish between those who would be loyal to the Beast government from those who would NOT be loyal.

 How Do You Get Compliance From the Populous?

Now, I always had an uneasiness with this particular thinking and scenario. For I could not fathom how you convince a populous to willingly take such a Mark for simply political purposes. Such a scenario would result in certain widespread uprisings and civil unrest. No matter how popular a world leader may be to his or her citizens, there’s always a good chunk of their population that cannot stand them. 

So the question always remained within me: how would the governments of the world convince their citizens to acquiesce and freely receive the mark? Well, prior to this latest pandemic, I could not think of many valid scenarios where this scenario would peacefully occur.

I Get It Now

With this latest proposal, I’m having second thoughts on the hybrid Mark paradigm. I am now leaning towards the Mark of the Beast paradigm that distinguishes one group of citizens from another group of citizens for health reasons. And the fundamental basis by which this particular tracking system, or Mark, would be implemented is an existential fear.

Indeed, this latest situation overrides the vast majority of people’s hesitancy to getting such a tracking system implanted on or in them:

(1) Fear of becoming infected from a highly contagious bug.

(2) The fear of not being able to provide for one’s self and family; and

(3) A fear of not being able to move about society freely as a westerner.

No Mark or Tracker For You?

Indeed, if such a tracking situation were to be deployed, the true believers of this world who would choose to reject the tracking system (aka Mark) would be forced to undergo hell.  That is, unless those brethren have planned and figured out a way to operate effectively “off-the-grid” so to speak.

The Mark of the Beast Described in Scriputre

The Apostle Yochanan (aka John) in the Revelation he received from Master Yeshua haMashiyach, described the Mark of the Beast this way: 

“And he (the 2nd Beast) causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: …that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of a man; and his number is six hundred threescore and six” (Rev. 13:16-18; KJV).

 The Pre-Tribulation Factor

Now, one of the reasons most fundamentalists have no real concern about such a tracking or Mark system is because they hold to a “Pre-Tribulation-Sudden-Rapture” understanding of the end times. In this understanding, Churchianity has been sold a bill of goods. The false thinking is that “born again believers in Jesus Christ will be out of here” (ie., snatched up to heaven) before such a thing like the Mark of the Beast takes place.

 The Redeemed To Be Tribulated

However, Torah Observant Disciples of Yeshua Messiah clearly recognize that those who are still alive at the time before the Great Tribulation will undergo great persecution and even tribulation. That persecution and tribulation will be brought on by the peoples of this world. Not Yah. 

Our Master Yahoshua endured persecution and tribulation on our behalf. And by virtue of our operating under the Kingdom of YHVH economy, no one is better than another. Yeshua warned His disciples that they, like Him, would endure tribulation and persecution. And indeed they did. Simply read Foxes Book of Martyrs. It should become abundantly clear to you that many of Yeshua’s disciples of the first couple centuries A.D. endured hellish torture and tribulations. 

Yochanan in the Revelation that he received from Yeshua recorded the following:

 

“So the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed that keeps the commandments of YHVH and has the testimony of Yeshua Messiah” (Revelation 12:17).

 

In another place in the Cepher (Book) of Revelation we read:

 

“And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of YHVH, and for the testimony which they held” (6:9). 

 YHVH’s Elect Identified

Therefore friends, if we truly belong to YHVH and Yeshua Messiah and we are still around in the last days, we are most certainly marked for tribulation and even for martyrdom. Our Faith is not a get out of jail ticket for the End Times. Instead, our Faith will be the standard by which YHVH’s true children will be recognized: 

“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of YHVH and the faith of Yeshua” (Revelation 14:12). 

And here’s the deal with those who acquiesce and take the Mark of the Beast: 

“…the first went and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast, and upon them which worshiped his image” (Rev. 16:2; KJV). 

“The third angel followed them saying with a loud voice, if any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name” (Rev. 14:9-11; KJV). 

 

 So What’s A Disciple of Yeshua to Do?

So getting any form of tracking, be it the actual Mark of the Beast when the time truly comes, or the tracking system that the powers that be are proposing for the citizens of the world today cannot be an option for Torah Observant Disciples of Yeshua Messiah. The reasons are obvious and biblical.

So what? What do we do about this potentially dire situation?

The Spiritual Preparations

Well, we have to be prayed up; fasted up; and studied up; ready for the dark days ahead. And when I say ready for the dark days ahead, I’m talking about making preparations the best way we know how and can.

Seems the powers that be in our society today, as well as the Apostle John, have given us ample notice to prepare. It’s now up to us to ready ourselves for the consequences that will be inherent if we do not take the mark that the power brokers are proposing for the citizens of the world these days.

Material Preparations

For those of us who have means—such as land to grow food. Dwellings that are free and clear of debt. And the ability to subsist without public utilities and other such resources. Maybe it’s time to prepare to go off the grid. For those of us who are lacking in terms of material means we probably need to start looking at cutting back on the things that are not of necessity. Maybe it’s time to stock up on necessities in anticipation of a prolonged period of lack. This most recent pandemic situation was an excellent rehearsal for this. Many of us found that we can subsist without the extras that we’ve grown accustomed to having in our present lives.

 Learn Survival Skills

It wouldn’t be a bad idea to learn some skills that many of don’t currently possess. Maybe:

(1) Growing our own fruits and vegetables.

(2) Raising Torah sanctioned animals for food.

(3) Currying favor with those around us who may have skills and resources we can tap into in times of need.

(4) Clear-up our debts as much as possible under the present circumstances.

(5) Become a part of a trustworthy network of trustworthy brethren to work with in times of trouble. 

Trust in YHVH

And certainly, our faith must be unshakable. We must learn to rely on Father to guide us through the bad times ahead. To grant us wisdom and knowledge and grace to navigate these coming perilous times. And of course, it goes without saying: we must ask Yah for unshakable courage to stand-up to the power brokers who will attempt to enforce the taking of the Mark.

My Prayer

May you be ever so ready for the sobering days ahead of us. Regardless if this thing turms out to be the real Cepher of (Book of) Revelation Mark of the Beast, a precursor of the real thing, or just a well-crafted threat, designed to test the public’s willingness to comply with such a tracking system. We must be prepared: spiritually; emotionally; psychologically; and physically for the fall-out that’s sure to come from such a proposal. As I always try to get across to everyone who hears the content of this program, none of this is about us. All of this, however, is about Him—YHVH our Elohim.

In all things, let us give our Elohim the praise, glory and honor He so justly deserves.

May you, your families and fellowships stay well and abundantly blessed. Shalom.