Authority of the Church? Part 2
Our Faith has been around since before God created Man (Satan was in charge of songs of worship before his fall). We were not the first to worship our God. The angels were created first. Our Church or faith is older than our actual creation. We perverted that worship many times over. Yeshua is the beginning and the head, in the fact that he is the living God (Father, Son, and Holy Ghost). Many think that there was a new church created by our Messiah. But the date of our true faith is much older indeed.
This is not the creation of a new God, Church or faith. It is an assembly made to bring us around to the original.
Isa 56:7 these I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.
Jer 7:11 Has this house, which is called by my name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, I myself have seen it, declares the LORD
Once again the house spoken of is not a new church but the Temple of God.
Mat 21:13 He said to them, It is written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer,' but you make it a den of robbers.
Also Yeshua is God, weather in human body or not. He has been around in one shape or form since the beginning. What came first, this church as many know it today, or God? Was the church created for man to worship in his own way, or were we meant to worship our God in Gods way? If it is the same God, in NEW YET PROMISED FORM, HOW CAN IT BE A NEW CHURCH? Is God never changing, and everlasting no matter what form he is in? It’s like people who say the scripture changes each time they read it to fit their life accordingly, but it’s not the scripture that changes. We are the ones who change. If that’s true, isn’t it the same here? The assembly, or faith (church) never change’s we do And we weren’t ready to handle all of it. And so we got it a piece at a time. Doesn’t that make more sense and fit better into the history of our Holy Bible? And if that’s the case how much can we handle now? Is it finished? Has our Messiah fulfilled everything?
Our Faith was not created for us, but we were created for it. If God created us, and our assembly is the faith in that God, how could we ever be so arrogant to think that a Church was made just for us? Its like saying God is our servant. God promises to care for, and watch over us. God Loves, and helps us. He was not created to serve us, but we were created to serve him. Faith in God is for all mankind. But many seem to be under the delusion that it wasn’t that way from the beginning.
Gen 12:3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.
Even in the Old testament the nation of Israel was to be the light of the world.
Psa 72:10 May the kings of Tarshish and of the coastlands render him tribute; may the kings of Sheba and Seba bring gifts
Psa 72:15 Long may he live; may gold of Sheba be given to him May prayer be made for him continually, and blessings invoked for him all the day
Isa 60:3 And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising.
When the Israelites were exiting EGYPT God preformed many miracles, signs and wonders. Not just for the Israelites, but to show the world He was the one true God. The only thing that separated the Israelites with the rest of the world was their belief in the One True God. Abraham wasn’t a Hebrew until he believed in God.
The mistake I think most seem to be laboring under is whether or not there was ever a separation in the Faith, or that there was ever supposed to be a separation in the faith. I can find many instances in the Bible referring to the believers as Jews, nation of Israel, and the like. I can even find the Nazarene sect of the Faith in the one true God.
Act 24:5 For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes:
Act 28:22 But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.
Act 28:23 And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.
I can even find Christian.
Act 11:26 and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.
Act 26:28 And Agrippa said to Paul, In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?
1Pe 4:16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.
But I have a hard time finding any other name for faith in God. Where is Baptist, catholic, Protestant, or the like? In Judah the term Jew meant he who has faith in God. If you’re not that then you might want to do some serious contemplating. Also many seem to think the Jews were meant to become gentiles, but it is the other way around:
Act 15:21 For from ancient generations Moses has had in every city those who proclaim him, for he is read every Sabbath in the synagogues.
THE GENTILES WERE TO LEARN THE WAYS OF THE FAITH FROM THE PEOPLE THAT AT THIS TIME WERE CALLED JEWISH BELIEVERS OR JEWS.
Isa 9:1 But there will be no gloom for her who was in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he has made glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations.
Isa 9:2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined.
Isa 42:1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations.
Isa 49:1 Listen to me, O coastlands, and give attention, you peoples from afar. The LORD called me from the womb, from the body of my mother he named my name.
Isa 9:2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined.
Isa 11:10 In that day the root of Jesse, who shall stand as a signal for the peoples--of him shall the nations inquire, and his resting place shall be glorious.
Isa 65:1 I was ready to be sought by those who did not ask for me; I was ready to be found by those who did not seek me. I said, Here am I, here am I, to a nation that was not called by my name.
We were to be taught the existing faith, not a new one. Yeshua was to restore the Faith to what it was meant to be.
Many point to the New Covenant and say that this proof that we have a new church. But to say this, is to forget the fact that the New Covenant was specifically promised, and given to Israel:
Jer 31:31 Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah,
Jer 31:32 not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, my covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, declares the LORD.
Jer 31:33 But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
Jer 31:34 And no longer shall each one teach his neighbor and each his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,' for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, declares the LORD. For I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.
Isa 49:6 he says: It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to bring back the preserved of Israel; I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.
We are not joint heirs, just heirs. No new God, Church, or Body, just adding to the existing Faith. We were to be added to the existing covenant’s. Heirs adopted into the covenant, no longer gentiles or those of foreign beliefs. To be taught all the ways of God. Which was not the case in the time before the Messiah (or so was taught by man), Jews coveted their teachings and personal relationship with the One True God. Now they had to share. We are to follow the True Will of God, not to create our own. Believers, who follow, worship, and praise God. Believers who believe in the promised Messiah, and His Salvation. Believers who seek the truth and follow all of God’s Will. Not just the ones we choose. No longer gentile believers, just believers.
Many of these commandments that are taught by the false doctrines to replace the old covenant and commandments were in fact just to be the beginning of the Gentile believer’s doctrine. Gentiles unlike the Jews were not brought up in the true faith of God. So they needed to be brought in slowly with what they could handle. This is why we have but a few commandments based on the old in the New testament addressed to gentile Believers. Also I would like to point out that almost all of the Old commandments that are thought to be, done away with, are indeed mentioned or represented in the New. And to teach the belief that the new covenant does away with the old is very dangerous indeed. Because if it did, we are all in trouble. If a new covenant does away with the old, then every time it rains we should be heading to a boat just incase. Out of fear of another world wide flood
Avram Yehoshua OF Ramat Gan, ISRAEL wrote - “To understand the New Covenant from the Hebraic Perspective is to see it as an extension of the Old, not a completely new and separate reality as the Church has taught for 1,900 years. To fully understand the New Covenant is to see it as a rose on the stem of the Old Covenant, both thriving and alive.”
In the beginning God created man. He gave them one commandment and as long as they followed this one commandment then they were innocent. This was the first covenant God made with man. Then Man fell away. So God looked and found only one person that would listen to him so he had him build an ark, and then preceded to destroy the earth with a flood. After this, God made a new covenant with man to never destroy the earth with a flood again. Moving forward, we come to Abraham. And once again we see another new covenant with man. Then there’s the covenant with Isaac, then Moses and so on. If one destroys the other, what are we now left with? Is God a liar? For most of these covenants were stated to be everlasting. So how then, can we believe, that the new covenant did away with the old? Does it then make more sense that it doesn’t, and all covenants just add to the others to make a perfect covenant, or a fulfilled covenant?
If the church is the finial authority, then why does the Church as we know it have so many Pagan beliefs? Such as Sunday instead of Sabbath, Easter, Christmas, the Cross, and steeple just to name a few? As a matter of fact there is a prophecy in Daniel that speaks of this very thing:
Dan 7:25 He shall speak words against the Most High, and shall wear out the saints of the Most High, and shall think to change the times and the law; and they shall be given into his hand for a time, times, and half a time.
And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times (feasts) and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.
This tells of the corruption that has in so many cases become the church.
Avram Yehoshua OF Ramat Gan, ISRAEL wrote - “Understanding the Scriptures from a Hebraic perspective reveals to us how the Messiah calls us to walk with Him, both Jew and Gentile. There is more to the Word than initially meets our eye. And there is more to the Word that does and would effect us, to walk in His Way, if we only understood what the Church intentionally buried 1,900 years ago, and continually demonizes. For it’s by our understanding that we follow the Lord and obey His Will, the Scriptures. But if our understanding is faulty on a grand scale, involving not just us but everyone around us, we all fail to do His Will at those points of ignorance and satanic deception.”
The Revelation at Mt. Sinai, with God taking a wife (Israel), and sharing with her His desire for her (His Commandments, Words), reveals the Will of God. No other people had this. And no other people walked in this relationship, for better, and more times than not, for worse (due to Israel’s carnal nature, sins of rebellion and disobedience to God’s Law), than Israel. Does God’s will on sin change? Is He not the same yesterday, today and forever? So how can one possibly think that Sabbath has given way to Sunday? Where is any Scripture in the New Testament to declare such a major change? Where do we get the idea that we now have a whole new church? There is not one Scripture in the New Testament that decrees it as such.
Torah is the epitome of God’s Love to Israel. God has revealed Himself to His people and in this, He has revealed what is pleasing to Him and what is sin in His eyes.
Yeshua, far from destroying or replacing the Law claims to uphold it
Mat 5:17 Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.
Mat 5:18 For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.
Mat 5:19 Therefore whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
Yeshua teaches us that the Law is God’s definition of love: ‘On these two Commandments’ (love God and love your neighbor), ‘hang the whole Law and the Prophets.’ Every law, every Commandment, every statute, has its ‘reason for being’ in showing us how to love God, or how to love each other. Each and every one of them.
Mat 22:37 And he said to him, You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.
Mat 22:38 This is the great and first commandment.
Mat 22:39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
Mat 22:40 On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.
With the coming of Messiah did that change? The only thing that changed, or was given the ability to change, was man. We were given the opportunity to die to self as spoken of in Romans chapter six. So that we might live in Messiah and walk as he walked.
1Jn 3:1 See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.
1Jn 3:2 Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.
1Jn 3:3 And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.
1Jn 3:4 Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness.
1Jn 3:5 You know that he appeared to take away sins, and in him there is no sin.
Now, with His Spirit residing within, we can follow Him. We can be like Him. Was it sin for Him is sin for us? How could it not be sin for us then? Would it matter if one was born a Gentile? Since when does race determine what is sin and what is not? God determines what is sin, for all.
The word is the final authority, not the Church, because as we have seen many times throughout history, our assemblies do not get things right very often. That is why we have the Word, Laws, and commandments. It is by the authority of the church that the Word of God has been perverted throughout history, to slaughter untold numbers of innocent people. Man must never think that he has authority over the Word of God. That is one of the main points of our Messiah’s ministry, to remove the false teachings of man. And how do we repay him? By doing the same thing all over again!
In the Churches of man ( that so many have become) Men have the authority. Many of these churches define themselves in ways that are not truly found in scripture. And in these cases’ men have authority over the man-made church. But in assemblies that truly follow God then God has all authority. If man creates an assembly, then man can govern it, but if God creates an assembly then God controls it.
We have no authority without God, his Word, commandments, and Laws. God is the authority, we only get any resemblance of authority, if God is actually dwelling in us, and we are actually acting by his Will set forth by his Word. God does not follow men. Men follow God
As we go forth and test these new ideas in Scripture let us pray that our Father gives us His Spirit of wisdom, understanding, and truth. So we may see and walk as our Messiah walked, and be true disciples in the Name of Yeshua (Jesus). May we pray for eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to change for the glory of our Father
Monday, June 14, 2010
Monday, June 7, 2010
The authority of the church? Part 1
The authority of the church? Part 1
Let's define the word “Church”, from the Old English and German word pronounced kirche. In Scotland, it was kirk.
The following entries are from the Oxford Universal English Dictionary:
Church [Old English cirice, circe; Middle English chereche, chiriche, chirche; whence churche, cherche, etc.: -Greek Kuriakon...]
Kirk The Northern English and Scottish form of CHURCH, in all its senses.
The word church would have been an acceptable translation for the Greek word kuriakos. However, not by the wildest imagination of the most liberal translator can it ever be used for ecclesia. In the earlier Greek It was pronounced ku-ri-a-kos or ku-ri-a-kon. As we can see, this word doesn't even resemble the Greek word ecclesia, whose place it has usurped. The meaning of Ku-ri-a-kos is understood by its root: Ku- ri-os, which means lord. Thus, kuriakos (church) means pertaining to the lord. It refers to something that pertains to, or belongs to, a lord. The Greek kuriakos eventually came to be used in Old English form as cirice (Kee-ree-ke), then churche (kerke), and eventually church in its traditional pronunciation. A church, then, is correctly something that pertains to, or belongs to, a lord.
Now, as we can see, there is a major problem here. The translators broke the rules in a big way. When they inserted the word church in the English versions, they were not translating the Greek word kuriakos, as one might expect. They were substituting an entirely different Greek word. This was not an honest acceptable translation for the Greek word ecclesia.
Now, let's look at the word, ecclesia . This Greek word appears in the New Testament approximately 115 times. That's just in this one grammatical form. It appears also in other forms. And in all but 3 instances, it is wrongly translated as church in the King James Version. Those three exceptions are found in Acts 19:32, 39, 41. In these instances the translators rendered it assembly instead of church. But, the Greek word is exactly the same as the other 112 entries where it was changed to church wrongly.
In Acts 19, ecclesia is a town council: a civil body in Ephesus. Because of this the translators were forced to abandon their erroneous translation in these three instances. Nonetheless, 112 times they changed it to church. This fact has been covered-up under centuries of misuse and ignorance. The Greek word ecclesia is correctly defined as: The called-out (ones) [ECC = out; KALEO = call]. So we can see how this word was used to indicate a civil body of select (called, elected) people.
According to the Encyclopedia Britannica:
In the New Testament, ecclesia (signifying convocation) is the only single word used for church. It (ecclesia) was the name given to the governmental assembly of the city of Athens, duly convoked (called out) by proper officers and possessing all political power including even juridical functions.
Many believe that it is the Church that has all authority in the matters of faith on this earth. I do not even have to really point to one religion or denomination because almost all have this belief.
But the ecclasia would be better stated as called out for authority, specifically chosen by Messiah while acting in the Name of Messiah. To go forth and teach the nations (starting with the nation of Israel) the True Word of God. Showing the fulfillment of the prophecies of old and replacing man made church with faith in God. Through His will, and commandments.
Many believe Christ created the Church and taught the first followers, giving them authority to act in His behalf.
But does the church really act in His behalf? And the question is, If we are not acting in his behalf do we have his authority? It’s like praying in the name of Yeshua (Jesus). As long as you pray in the name of Yeshua (Jesus), in his behalf, and for his glory then all things will come.
Joh 14:13 Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
Joh 14:14 If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.
Joh 15:16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.
Php 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
But the first time you pray in His name out of selfishness, then you are not asking in the name of Yeshua, you are asking in your own name.
Mat 17:20 And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.
And when you ask in your own name or the name of someone, or something other than our Messiah, and we ask a mountain to move, does it?
Mat 16:15 He said to them, But who do you say that I am?
Mat 16:16 Simon Peter replied, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Mat 16:17 And Jesus answered him, Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.
Mat 16:18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Mat 16:19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
If the church is a new church why didn’t he tell anyone else? I have found no scripture that supports the idea that our Messiah created a whole new church. The Scripture’s tell of an assembly of Jews who believe in the Messiah and that he has come. He starts off by asking who am I. The answer was the Son of God. He didn’t ask, am I the new beginning of a new church, but who am I. The rock or foundation is that SIMON believed Yeshua (Jesus) was the messiah. For the first ten years after the resurrection, there were no Gentiles in this Assembly. Only when Cornelius comes into the Kingdom of Messiah Yeshua, the King of the Jews, does it take a new turn:
Act 11:18 When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.
It was entirely Hebraic (Jewish) up until then, the continuation of the faith of Abraham, Moses and King David. It is the promise fulfilled that was made to these men and many other Hebrew men, as Luke writes of:
Luk 1:30 And the angel said to her, Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.
Luk 1:31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.
Luk 1:32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David,
Luk 1:33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.
Interesting that it’s the House of Jacob and not ‘the Church’ that the Lord will reign over forever. Yeshua, too, speaks of His continued Hebraic roots in the last chapter of the last book of the Bible:
Rev 22:16 I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the assemblies. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.
It is not a new church but a fulfillment of the prophecies of an existing faith.
Gen 12:3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.
The scripture says everlasting, not lasting until the Messiah comes. Scripture says he was the stone the builders rejected that became the capstone. Not the capstone of a new faith, but the corner stone of the existing one.
Psa 118:22 The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.
Isa 28:16 therefore thus says the Lord GOD, Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation: 'Whoever believes will not be in haste.'
The new or old church is a misunderstanding of what Ecclesia means. First off it means assembly. Not meaning that only those in this group will be apart of the belief, and blessing of the Messiah, but all who come to believe. Not one church (assembly) or another, but all those who come to belief. Many seem to be under the understanding, that there is a separation in the Church or assemblies that believe in God the Father and his promised Son Yeshua the Messiah. Once again I can’t find any scripture that supports this view. And for his Glory, is the Glory of God the Father. The God of a well-established faith.
Psa 45:6 Your throne, O God, is forever and ever. The scepter of your kingdom is a scepter of uprightness;
Psa 45:7 you have loved righteousness and hated wickedness. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions;
Psa 102:25 Of old you laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands.
Psa 102:26 They will perish, but you will remain; they will all wear out like a garment. You will change them like a robe, and they will pass away,
Psa 102:27 but you are the same, and your years have no end.
Were does it say God changes, and a new Church is coming? The same faith that prophesied that the Messiah was coming, is the same faith that accepted him
Isa 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
Not a new church, religion, or faith. Yeshua didn’t usher in a new God.
Mic 5:2 But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.
Psa 2:7 I will tell of the decree: The LORD said to me, You are my Son; today I have begotten you.
Pro 30:4 Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in his fists? Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name? Surely you know
His Church (ASSEMBLY) is from long ago, from the days of eternity (before the creation of time and counted days).
Quoting from the Oxford Universal English Dictionary on the word ecclesia :
Ecclesia [mediaeval Latin, and Greek - from : SUMMONED] -A regularly convoked assembly, especially the general assembly of Athenians. Later, the regular word for church.
The ecclesia or ekklesia was the principal assembly of the democracy of ancient Athens during its Golden Age (480–404 BC). It was the popular assembly, opened to all male citizens over the age of 18 by Solon in 594 BC meaning that all classes of citizens in Athens were able to participate, even the thetes. The ecclesia opened the doors for all citizens, regardless of class, to nominate and vote for magistrates - indirectly voting for the Areopagus - have the final decision on legislation, war and peace, and have the right to call magistrates to account after their year of office. In the 5th century BC their numbers amounted to about 43,000 people. However, only those wealthy enough to spend much of their time away from home would have been able to participate until Pericles' reforms in early 451-2 BC allowing payment for jurors. The assembly was responsible for declaring war, military strategy, and electing strategoi and other officials. It originally met once every month, but later it met three or four times per month. The agenda for the ecclesia was established by the Boule, the popular council. Votes were taken by a show of hands.
Richard Anthony wrote - Matthew 16:18, …And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church (Greek - ekklesia)…
The Greek word ekklesia, is used 115 times in the New Testament, and in most bibles, it is always translated as church (except in Acts 19:32,39,41, where it is properly translated as assembly ).
The first complete English bible was the Tyndale bible in about 1524, and that bible did not use the word church anywhere in its pages, it used the word congregation. Sometime after this bible they started replacing the word congregation with the word church.
Now, some people might say we're just mincing words; they say, Church, assembly, what's the difference? “You know what I mean when I say Church.” But words are very, very important according to the Word of God. The following verses tell us that one of the duties of all disciples of Messiah is to diligently look at the words to describe His Body.
Matthew 4:4, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
Matthew 12:36-37, But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Proverbs 6:2, Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.
Proverbs 30:5-6, Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.
One of the jurisdictions of the natural man is the Church. There are many Churches out there, even the Church of Satan. The Church of Wicka. The Church of Humanity. You name it, there's a Church for it. We have to differentiate because our Messiah’s ekklesia is not the Church. If you look in a dictionary, under the word Church, it's defined as a place of worship of any religion as a Jewish or heathen temple. When the world says Church, they are thinking of a building or a structure, and this is actually the original meaning of Church, but somehow it transferred over as being the body of Messiah. But as we're told in scripture, God dwelleth not in temples made with hands
Act 17:24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
2Co 5:1 For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
Heb 9:24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
There's many different definitions for the Church, and it's really an arbitrary and capricious word. And we're going to take a look at how the natural man got jurisdiction over that. Man got jurisdiction over the Church because Man is the one that created it, he's the one that took the word ekklesia to a word that has no substance.
Now lets look at the meaning of Ekklesia
First, we'll look at the meaning of what our Messiah’s ekklesia is, we'll look at the real thing first, then we'll compare the legal fiction that's being created as the substitute for God’s ekklesia. The word ekklesia is the original Greek Word, it was used in the Septuagint. So, the seventy-two translators that translated the Septuagint around 280 B.C. were very much aware of that word ekklesia. They used it in the Septuagint as a replacement of the Hebrew for the congregation of Israel.
Now, if we go to the modern word studies on ekklesia, they'll always point to the secular meaning of the Greek, that it was a group of citizens called together. They rarely go to the original meaning. The first time it's spoken in the New Testament, by our Messiah, is:
Mat 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my ekklesia…
When you go to Tyndale's bible, which was the first English Bible, he translated ekklesia as assembly. In the George Ricker Berry Interlinear Greek/English New Testament (it's a literal translation of the Greek into English), which was written in the late 1800's, he translated ekklesia as assembly, and you won't find the word church anywhere in there. Yeshua only used the word ekklesia three times. It's not recorded in the book of Mark, John, or Luke. Matthew is the only one who recorded it.
In Strong's Greek Concordance, the word ekklesia (word #1577) is defined as an assembly, and it's from the word ek, (word #1537) which means out of ; and the word klesis (word #2821) which means a calling. So ekklesia means to be called out, and obviously Yeshua is the one that's calling us out. But is that the first time we were ever called out?
The apostle Paul wrote:
2Co 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
2Co 6:18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
Now Paul is quoting the Old Testament from Isaiah 52:11
Isa 52:11 Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean thing; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the LORD.
So we were called out in the Old Testament. In the Septuagint, Isaiah 52:11 reads, Depart ye, depart, go out from thence, and touch not the unclean thing; go ye out from the midst of her; separate yourselves, ye that bear the vessels of the Lord.
From the Hebrew Tanach it is Depart , depart, go out from there Touch no unclean thing Come out from it and be pure, you who carry the vessels of the Lord.
So, when you go to the original Greek in the Septuagint and find out what those verses mean, you find out what you're being called out of. And that's what His ekklesia is, it is those who are called out.
When Isaiah says, go ye out from the midst of her, what does that mean? Well, when you go to the original Greek, out from the midst means out from the center. And the word her is from the Greek autos which means self.
In Hebrew it is the same word used in Exodus 3:10, speaking of coming out of Egypt or bondage.
So basically, what this verse is saying is to depart and separate yourself from your self will (those wants of the world), bondage, and touch not the impure. So what we're called out of is our self We're called out of the self-will and all of those things that have to do with the flesh. And that is His ecclesia.
This goes along with:
Mat 10:38 And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.
Mat 10:39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
The apostle Paul said, I die daily,
1Co 15:31 I protest, brothers, by my pride in you, which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die every day
What this means is to do His Will, and crucify the deeds of the flesh, kill our old man.
So, there's only one definition for ekklesia, and that's assembly (or congregation). Now, how is it possible to take the word church (which means a physical structure) and insert it in there? Because the word Church does not mean assembly at all. It doesn't even closely correlate.
The idea that Yeshua created a whole new church and called out His first members doesn’t even make since. The Apostles were not the first to believe in Yeshua as the Messiah Joseph and Mary were the first to believe in the Messiah before his birth. John the Baptist is the first to have Devine inspiration that Yeshua (Jesus) was indeed the promised Messiah. And many before believed in the coming of the promised Messiah. But he did call out his first believers that he elected to die to self, and teach the people the uncorrupted massage of the One True God. Not a new church, religion, or faith
Yeshua our Messiah is not the beginning of a new church, but a restoration of an existing and perverted belief. The called out assembly were the beginning of the elected believers in the messiah, those first to be called out by Messiah to remove there old man. They are the assembly that would bring about the restoration of the scriptural belief and not the perverted doctrines of man that go against that scripture. We were not called out to authority but called out of our worldly flesh and beliefs
Not a new Church of Christ, but his Fathers (They are one in the same). Not a new Church but a redefining of the existing faith.
Mal 3:1 Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple; and the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming, says the LORD of hosts.
Mat 16:15 He said to them, But who do you say that I am?
Mat 16:16 Simon Peter replied, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Mat 16:17 And Jesus answered him, Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.
Mat 16:18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Mat 16:19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
Yeshua never said he would build his church upon these men. But he was electing the first to be called out of them selves and follow him. The rock was not the man, but his belief that the Messiah had come.
As we go forth and test these new ideas in Scripture let us pray that our Father gives us His Spirit of wisdom, understanding, and truth. So we may see and walk as our Messiah walked, and be true disciples in the Name of Yeshua (Jesus). May we pray for eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to change for the glory of our Father
Let's define the word “Church”, from the Old English and German word pronounced kirche. In Scotland, it was kirk.
The following entries are from the Oxford Universal English Dictionary:
Church [Old English cirice, circe; Middle English chereche, chiriche, chirche; whence churche, cherche, etc.: -Greek Kuriakon...]
Kirk The Northern English and Scottish form of CHURCH, in all its senses.
The word church would have been an acceptable translation for the Greek word kuriakos. However, not by the wildest imagination of the most liberal translator can it ever be used for ecclesia. In the earlier Greek It was pronounced ku-ri-a-kos or ku-ri-a-kon. As we can see, this word doesn't even resemble the Greek word ecclesia, whose place it has usurped. The meaning of Ku-ri-a-kos is understood by its root: Ku- ri-os, which means lord. Thus, kuriakos (church) means pertaining to the lord. It refers to something that pertains to, or belongs to, a lord. The Greek kuriakos eventually came to be used in Old English form as cirice (Kee-ree-ke), then churche (kerke), and eventually church in its traditional pronunciation. A church, then, is correctly something that pertains to, or belongs to, a lord.
Now, as we can see, there is a major problem here. The translators broke the rules in a big way. When they inserted the word church in the English versions, they were not translating the Greek word kuriakos, as one might expect. They were substituting an entirely different Greek word. This was not an honest acceptable translation for the Greek word ecclesia.
Now, let's look at the word, ecclesia . This Greek word appears in the New Testament approximately 115 times. That's just in this one grammatical form. It appears also in other forms. And in all but 3 instances, it is wrongly translated as church in the King James Version. Those three exceptions are found in Acts 19:32, 39, 41. In these instances the translators rendered it assembly instead of church. But, the Greek word is exactly the same as the other 112 entries where it was changed to church wrongly.
In Acts 19, ecclesia is a town council: a civil body in Ephesus. Because of this the translators were forced to abandon their erroneous translation in these three instances. Nonetheless, 112 times they changed it to church. This fact has been covered-up under centuries of misuse and ignorance. The Greek word ecclesia is correctly defined as: The called-out (ones) [ECC = out; KALEO = call]. So we can see how this word was used to indicate a civil body of select (called, elected) people.
According to the Encyclopedia Britannica:
In the New Testament, ecclesia (signifying convocation) is the only single word used for church. It (ecclesia) was the name given to the governmental assembly of the city of Athens, duly convoked (called out) by proper officers and possessing all political power including even juridical functions.
Many believe that it is the Church that has all authority in the matters of faith on this earth. I do not even have to really point to one religion or denomination because almost all have this belief.
But the ecclasia would be better stated as called out for authority, specifically chosen by Messiah while acting in the Name of Messiah. To go forth and teach the nations (starting with the nation of Israel) the True Word of God. Showing the fulfillment of the prophecies of old and replacing man made church with faith in God. Through His will, and commandments.
Many believe Christ created the Church and taught the first followers, giving them authority to act in His behalf.
But does the church really act in His behalf? And the question is, If we are not acting in his behalf do we have his authority? It’s like praying in the name of Yeshua (Jesus). As long as you pray in the name of Yeshua (Jesus), in his behalf, and for his glory then all things will come.
Joh 14:13 Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
Joh 14:14 If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.
Joh 15:16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.
Php 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
But the first time you pray in His name out of selfishness, then you are not asking in the name of Yeshua, you are asking in your own name.
Mat 17:20 And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.
And when you ask in your own name or the name of someone, or something other than our Messiah, and we ask a mountain to move, does it?
Mat 16:15 He said to them, But who do you say that I am?
Mat 16:16 Simon Peter replied, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Mat 16:17 And Jesus answered him, Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.
Mat 16:18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Mat 16:19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
If the church is a new church why didn’t he tell anyone else? I have found no scripture that supports the idea that our Messiah created a whole new church. The Scripture’s tell of an assembly of Jews who believe in the Messiah and that he has come. He starts off by asking who am I. The answer was the Son of God. He didn’t ask, am I the new beginning of a new church, but who am I. The rock or foundation is that SIMON believed Yeshua (Jesus) was the messiah. For the first ten years after the resurrection, there were no Gentiles in this Assembly. Only when Cornelius comes into the Kingdom of Messiah Yeshua, the King of the Jews, does it take a new turn:
Act 11:18 When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.
It was entirely Hebraic (Jewish) up until then, the continuation of the faith of Abraham, Moses and King David. It is the promise fulfilled that was made to these men and many other Hebrew men, as Luke writes of:
Luk 1:30 And the angel said to her, Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.
Luk 1:31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.
Luk 1:32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David,
Luk 1:33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.
Interesting that it’s the House of Jacob and not ‘the Church’ that the Lord will reign over forever. Yeshua, too, speaks of His continued Hebraic roots in the last chapter of the last book of the Bible:
Rev 22:16 I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the assemblies. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.
It is not a new church but a fulfillment of the prophecies of an existing faith.
Gen 12:3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.
The scripture says everlasting, not lasting until the Messiah comes. Scripture says he was the stone the builders rejected that became the capstone. Not the capstone of a new faith, but the corner stone of the existing one.
Psa 118:22 The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.
Isa 28:16 therefore thus says the Lord GOD, Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation: 'Whoever believes will not be in haste.'
The new or old church is a misunderstanding of what Ecclesia means. First off it means assembly. Not meaning that only those in this group will be apart of the belief, and blessing of the Messiah, but all who come to believe. Not one church (assembly) or another, but all those who come to belief. Many seem to be under the understanding, that there is a separation in the Church or assemblies that believe in God the Father and his promised Son Yeshua the Messiah. Once again I can’t find any scripture that supports this view. And for his Glory, is the Glory of God the Father. The God of a well-established faith.
Psa 45:6 Your throne, O God, is forever and ever. The scepter of your kingdom is a scepter of uprightness;
Psa 45:7 you have loved righteousness and hated wickedness. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions;
Psa 102:25 Of old you laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands.
Psa 102:26 They will perish, but you will remain; they will all wear out like a garment. You will change them like a robe, and they will pass away,
Psa 102:27 but you are the same, and your years have no end.
Were does it say God changes, and a new Church is coming? The same faith that prophesied that the Messiah was coming, is the same faith that accepted him
Isa 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
Not a new church, religion, or faith. Yeshua didn’t usher in a new God.
Mic 5:2 But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.
Psa 2:7 I will tell of the decree: The LORD said to me, You are my Son; today I have begotten you.
Pro 30:4 Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in his fists? Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name? Surely you know
His Church (ASSEMBLY) is from long ago, from the days of eternity (before the creation of time and counted days).
Quoting from the Oxford Universal English Dictionary on the word ecclesia :
Ecclesia [mediaeval Latin, and Greek - from : SUMMONED] -A regularly convoked assembly, especially the general assembly of Athenians. Later, the regular word for church.
The ecclesia or ekklesia was the principal assembly of the democracy of ancient Athens during its Golden Age (480–404 BC). It was the popular assembly, opened to all male citizens over the age of 18 by Solon in 594 BC meaning that all classes of citizens in Athens were able to participate, even the thetes. The ecclesia opened the doors for all citizens, regardless of class, to nominate and vote for magistrates - indirectly voting for the Areopagus - have the final decision on legislation, war and peace, and have the right to call magistrates to account after their year of office. In the 5th century BC their numbers amounted to about 43,000 people. However, only those wealthy enough to spend much of their time away from home would have been able to participate until Pericles' reforms in early 451-2 BC allowing payment for jurors. The assembly was responsible for declaring war, military strategy, and electing strategoi and other officials. It originally met once every month, but later it met three or four times per month. The agenda for the ecclesia was established by the Boule, the popular council. Votes were taken by a show of hands.
Richard Anthony wrote - Matthew 16:18, …And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church (Greek - ekklesia)…
The Greek word ekklesia, is used 115 times in the New Testament, and in most bibles, it is always translated as church (except in Acts 19:32,39,41, where it is properly translated as assembly ).
The first complete English bible was the Tyndale bible in about 1524, and that bible did not use the word church anywhere in its pages, it used the word congregation. Sometime after this bible they started replacing the word congregation with the word church.
Now, some people might say we're just mincing words; they say, Church, assembly, what's the difference? “You know what I mean when I say Church.” But words are very, very important according to the Word of God. The following verses tell us that one of the duties of all disciples of Messiah is to diligently look at the words to describe His Body.
Matthew 4:4, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
Matthew 12:36-37, But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Proverbs 6:2, Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.
Proverbs 30:5-6, Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.
One of the jurisdictions of the natural man is the Church. There are many Churches out there, even the Church of Satan. The Church of Wicka. The Church of Humanity. You name it, there's a Church for it. We have to differentiate because our Messiah’s ekklesia is not the Church. If you look in a dictionary, under the word Church, it's defined as a place of worship of any religion as a Jewish or heathen temple. When the world says Church, they are thinking of a building or a structure, and this is actually the original meaning of Church, but somehow it transferred over as being the body of Messiah. But as we're told in scripture, God dwelleth not in temples made with hands
Act 17:24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
2Co 5:1 For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
Heb 9:24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
There's many different definitions for the Church, and it's really an arbitrary and capricious word. And we're going to take a look at how the natural man got jurisdiction over that. Man got jurisdiction over the Church because Man is the one that created it, he's the one that took the word ekklesia to a word that has no substance.
Now lets look at the meaning of Ekklesia
First, we'll look at the meaning of what our Messiah’s ekklesia is, we'll look at the real thing first, then we'll compare the legal fiction that's being created as the substitute for God’s ekklesia. The word ekklesia is the original Greek Word, it was used in the Septuagint. So, the seventy-two translators that translated the Septuagint around 280 B.C. were very much aware of that word ekklesia. They used it in the Septuagint as a replacement of the Hebrew for the congregation of Israel.
Now, if we go to the modern word studies on ekklesia, they'll always point to the secular meaning of the Greek, that it was a group of citizens called together. They rarely go to the original meaning. The first time it's spoken in the New Testament, by our Messiah, is:
Mat 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my ekklesia…
When you go to Tyndale's bible, which was the first English Bible, he translated ekklesia as assembly. In the George Ricker Berry Interlinear Greek/English New Testament (it's a literal translation of the Greek into English), which was written in the late 1800's, he translated ekklesia as assembly, and you won't find the word church anywhere in there. Yeshua only used the word ekklesia three times. It's not recorded in the book of Mark, John, or Luke. Matthew is the only one who recorded it.
In Strong's Greek Concordance, the word ekklesia (word #1577) is defined as an assembly, and it's from the word ek, (word #1537) which means out of ; and the word klesis (word #2821) which means a calling. So ekklesia means to be called out, and obviously Yeshua is the one that's calling us out. But is that the first time we were ever called out?
The apostle Paul wrote:
2Co 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
2Co 6:18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
Now Paul is quoting the Old Testament from Isaiah 52:11
Isa 52:11 Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean thing; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the LORD.
So we were called out in the Old Testament. In the Septuagint, Isaiah 52:11 reads, Depart ye, depart, go out from thence, and touch not the unclean thing; go ye out from the midst of her; separate yourselves, ye that bear the vessels of the Lord.
From the Hebrew Tanach it is Depart , depart, go out from there Touch no unclean thing Come out from it and be pure, you who carry the vessels of the Lord.
So, when you go to the original Greek in the Septuagint and find out what those verses mean, you find out what you're being called out of. And that's what His ekklesia is, it is those who are called out.
When Isaiah says, go ye out from the midst of her, what does that mean? Well, when you go to the original Greek, out from the midst means out from the center. And the word her is from the Greek autos which means self.
In Hebrew it is the same word used in Exodus 3:10, speaking of coming out of Egypt or bondage.
So basically, what this verse is saying is to depart and separate yourself from your self will (those wants of the world), bondage, and touch not the impure. So what we're called out of is our self We're called out of the self-will and all of those things that have to do with the flesh. And that is His ecclesia.
This goes along with:
Mat 10:38 And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.
Mat 10:39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
The apostle Paul said, I die daily,
1Co 15:31 I protest, brothers, by my pride in you, which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die every day
What this means is to do His Will, and crucify the deeds of the flesh, kill our old man.
So, there's only one definition for ekklesia, and that's assembly (or congregation). Now, how is it possible to take the word church (which means a physical structure) and insert it in there? Because the word Church does not mean assembly at all. It doesn't even closely correlate.
The idea that Yeshua created a whole new church and called out His first members doesn’t even make since. The Apostles were not the first to believe in Yeshua as the Messiah Joseph and Mary were the first to believe in the Messiah before his birth. John the Baptist is the first to have Devine inspiration that Yeshua (Jesus) was indeed the promised Messiah. And many before believed in the coming of the promised Messiah. But he did call out his first believers that he elected to die to self, and teach the people the uncorrupted massage of the One True God. Not a new church, religion, or faith
Yeshua our Messiah is not the beginning of a new church, but a restoration of an existing and perverted belief. The called out assembly were the beginning of the elected believers in the messiah, those first to be called out by Messiah to remove there old man. They are the assembly that would bring about the restoration of the scriptural belief and not the perverted doctrines of man that go against that scripture. We were not called out to authority but called out of our worldly flesh and beliefs
Not a new Church of Christ, but his Fathers (They are one in the same). Not a new Church but a redefining of the existing faith.
Mal 3:1 Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple; and the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming, says the LORD of hosts.
Mat 16:15 He said to them, But who do you say that I am?
Mat 16:16 Simon Peter replied, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Mat 16:17 And Jesus answered him, Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.
Mat 16:18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Mat 16:19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
Yeshua never said he would build his church upon these men. But he was electing the first to be called out of them selves and follow him. The rock was not the man, but his belief that the Messiah had come.
As we go forth and test these new ideas in Scripture let us pray that our Father gives us His Spirit of wisdom, understanding, and truth. So we may see and walk as our Messiah walked, and be true disciples in the Name of Yeshua (Jesus). May we pray for eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to change for the glory of our Father
Monday, May 31, 2010
Authority of Man?
Authority of Man?
The false illusion that is the authority of man has thrown off believers since the beginning. I would have a hard time finding a church, religion, or denomination that doesn’t claim some kind of authority. Whether it is Popes, Priests, Rabbis, or Pastors, all religions seem to fall under the same problem. They claim authority over things they have no right to.
But do men have any authority? And if they do, does it exist outside of the power of God? I think Yeshua stated it best when he said give unto Caesar that which is Caesars, and give unto God that which is God’s.
Mat 22:21 They said, "Caesar's." Then he said to them, "Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."
Although admittedly here, Yeshua is speaking of taxes. But aren’t taxes only claimed through authority?
Is their authority in this world outside of God? I believe the answer is yes, as of now unfortunately. Not that any man has authority over God, but many men have authority in their lands, such as your local criminal court, or the governments of the world. There are defiantly groups we have to submit to in this world outside of our faith.
So how are we to act when submitting to the authority of the world that governs so much of our worldly lives?
I believe this is where reading the Tanach (Old Testament) can really help. Look to all the stories from the different exiles we have. In Genesis chapters’ 39-47 when taken as a salve to Egypt, Joseph submitted to his earthly masters will. The only time that he refused was when his Master’s wife continually tried to get him to lay with her. When he refused, she brought false witness against him, and because of this he was thrown in prison. Yet once again he submitted to his earthly masters will. Once again he was put in charge of the very prison he was forced to live in. Later because of God interpreting dreams through him, he was put in charge of all Egypt. He submitted to his earthly masters, and because of his faithfulness he was able to save his people in the time of great famine.
Daniel is another good example. He was so faithful that he was given great authority in the kingdom of Babylon. The only time he went against the laws of the land was when they went against the Law’s of God. We are given constant examples in our Holy scripture. They teach us to follow the Laws of the Land, to be good, and humble servants. The only time we are told to ignore or go against the authority in the land, is when that authority goes against the Law of God. This is how we must view all authority seemingly held by men.
Yeshua unlike most of us, actually practiced what he preached. Yeshua taught us to submit to civil authority. As long as, it did not go against the Will of God.
The real problem comes when man decides to claim authority over the very Word of God. We have to realize that there is no authority over our faith outside of God. The only time man has authority within our faith, is when he is acting within the Word of God. Man is never the authority. It is always God. It is my belief that the best place to see this in action is in:
Mat 16:18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Mat 16:19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."
Here we see the Apostle Cephas (Peter) being in full agreement with the Will of God. In this moment he has declared, through revelation from our Father in Heaven, that Yeshua is the promised Messiah. In doing so he is in full accordance of our Fathers Will. Because of this proclamation, which is the key to the kingdom of Heaven, he is given authority to bind and loose anything in Heaven and Earth. That is huge. Because of this proclamation, many now say, Peter is given all authority. So now whatever Peter says all have to do right?
Yet in the next few verses it states
Mat 16:22 And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, "Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you."
Mat 16:23 But he turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man."
In a matter of a few verses’ Cephas (Peter) goes from having all authority to bind and loose whatever he sees fit in Heaven and Earth to being called satan. As soon as this man had one thought outside of the Will of God, he goes from having authority through God, to being called satan.
Man only has authority when they are living within the Will of God. Mans authority, as it pertains to the matters of faith and Spirit, only exists within the Will of God. It is the Will and Word of God, which gives and has authority, not the man his self.
We as disciples of our Messiah are not to seek authority over others we are to seek to be servants of man. We are continually reminded throughout our Bible to be humble
Psa 25:9 He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way.
Psa 76:9 when God arose to establish judgment, to save all the humble of the earth. Selah
Psa 147:6 The LORD lifts up the humble; he casts the wicked to the ground.
Psa 149:4 For the LORD takes pleasure in his people; he adorns the humble with salvation.
Pro 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.
We are to in all things humble our selves. We are not even to give ourselves titles.
Mat 23:8 But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brothers.
Mat 23:9 And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.
Mat 23:10 Neither be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Christ.
Mat 23:11 The greatest among you shall be your servant.
Mat 23:12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.
Yeshua taught us that we are not to give our selves titles. We are to put all titles of authority away. We are not to claim to be teachers for there is but one teacher We are not to be masters for there is but one Master We are not to be rabbis for there is but one Rabbi. Why would we want to follow men who claim authority when Yeshua commanded us to be humble? If they really had authority over men, wouldn’t they know this truth from our Messiah?
Why do we insist on following those who refuse to humble themselves? Why do we follow men with the very titles that Yeshua taught his followers not to take? If we put our faith in men, they will let us down every time, because all men are flawed.
Mat 20:25 But Jesus called them to him and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them.
Mat 20:26 It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,
Mat 20:27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave,
Mat 20:28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Mar 10:42 And Jesus called them to him and said to them, "You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them.
Mar 10:43 But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,
Mar 10:44 and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all.
Mar 10:45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Man-made LABELS need to be removed from our lives, it is the labels that separate us more than any belief. We start to defend our particular brand of faith after we label it. Most of the time in the midst of this defense we lose sight of the truth, because it just isn’t as important as defending the faith.
Ecc 7:20 Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins.
Rom 3:10 as it is written: "None is righteous, no, not one;
There was only one man whoever walked this earth and truly lived without Sin. There is but one true Messiah and his name is Yeshua (Jesus)! So why then do so many of us put so much faith in men? We all need to take a step back from the doctrines and theologies of men and spend some time in our Holy Scripture, seeking the Truth that can only be found in our Messiah!
The fact is no man can lead you to God. No man can lead you to truth. No man can lead you to salvation. You must seek in order to be found. We as individuals must seek after God in order to find him. We as individuals must seek the truth, in order for it to be given. We as individuals must seek salvation in order for salvation to be found.
Do not believe anything I write because I write it. Put all things to the test. To this day I have not met a perfect man outside of our Messiah. All have sinned, and fallen short. We must stop putting our faith in the hands of flawed men. We must seek our truth through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Which brings us to the next question?
Do we need men to teach us how to understand scripture?
1Jn 2:27 But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie--just as it has taught you, abide in him.
Let no man deceive you. Nobody needs the guidance of men to seek and understand scripture. We must put aside our traditions, and commentaries. And seek the Truth of God within the Word of God. There are no short cuts. Sure in walking out the Holy Scriptures on our own we are gonna fail often. We will get many things wrong in the process. But that is what growth is all about. If you read a book about riding a bike it will never compare to actually trying to ride one and falling a few times. It is in getting up that we learn to ride. It is the same with the Truth in our Holy Scripture. We must learn and fall for our selves. It is in fellowship that we help each other grow and get back up. If you learn a great truth from another man, or commentary then you never really learned it yourself. When Simons name was changed to Peter, and he was given so much authority it was from a revelation from God that made this possible. Not by what he had heard from man!
I am not promoting open rebellion of all authority, not even the authority of men of any faith. I am only pointing out that no man is above reproach. And when we do submit ourselves under the authority of a teacher, we must keep all things in their proper perspective. We must remember that no matter how holy, or righteous a man seems to be. At the end of the day he is only a man.
If Torah is the goal, and Yeshua is the living Torah, we need to stop lowering the bar to the ideas of man and keep our focus on the true target.
As we go forth and test these new ideas in Scripture let us pray that our Father gives us His Spirit of wisdom, understanding, and truth. So we may see and walk as our Messiah walked, and be true disciples in the Name of Yeshua (Jesus). May we pray for eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to change for the glory of our Father!
The false illusion that is the authority of man has thrown off believers since the beginning. I would have a hard time finding a church, religion, or denomination that doesn’t claim some kind of authority. Whether it is Popes, Priests, Rabbis, or Pastors, all religions seem to fall under the same problem. They claim authority over things they have no right to.
But do men have any authority? And if they do, does it exist outside of the power of God? I think Yeshua stated it best when he said give unto Caesar that which is Caesars, and give unto God that which is God’s.
Mat 22:21 They said, "Caesar's." Then he said to them, "Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."
Although admittedly here, Yeshua is speaking of taxes. But aren’t taxes only claimed through authority?
Is their authority in this world outside of God? I believe the answer is yes, as of now unfortunately. Not that any man has authority over God, but many men have authority in their lands, such as your local criminal court, or the governments of the world. There are defiantly groups we have to submit to in this world outside of our faith.
So how are we to act when submitting to the authority of the world that governs so much of our worldly lives?
I believe this is where reading the Tanach (Old Testament) can really help. Look to all the stories from the different exiles we have. In Genesis chapters’ 39-47 when taken as a salve to Egypt, Joseph submitted to his earthly masters will. The only time that he refused was when his Master’s wife continually tried to get him to lay with her. When he refused, she brought false witness against him, and because of this he was thrown in prison. Yet once again he submitted to his earthly masters will. Once again he was put in charge of the very prison he was forced to live in. Later because of God interpreting dreams through him, he was put in charge of all Egypt. He submitted to his earthly masters, and because of his faithfulness he was able to save his people in the time of great famine.
Daniel is another good example. He was so faithful that he was given great authority in the kingdom of Babylon. The only time he went against the laws of the land was when they went against the Law’s of God. We are given constant examples in our Holy scripture. They teach us to follow the Laws of the Land, to be good, and humble servants. The only time we are told to ignore or go against the authority in the land, is when that authority goes against the Law of God. This is how we must view all authority seemingly held by men.
Yeshua unlike most of us, actually practiced what he preached. Yeshua taught us to submit to civil authority. As long as, it did not go against the Will of God.
The real problem comes when man decides to claim authority over the very Word of God. We have to realize that there is no authority over our faith outside of God. The only time man has authority within our faith, is when he is acting within the Word of God. Man is never the authority. It is always God. It is my belief that the best place to see this in action is in:
Mat 16:18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Mat 16:19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."
Here we see the Apostle Cephas (Peter) being in full agreement with the Will of God. In this moment he has declared, through revelation from our Father in Heaven, that Yeshua is the promised Messiah. In doing so he is in full accordance of our Fathers Will. Because of this proclamation, which is the key to the kingdom of Heaven, he is given authority to bind and loose anything in Heaven and Earth. That is huge. Because of this proclamation, many now say, Peter is given all authority. So now whatever Peter says all have to do right?
Yet in the next few verses it states
Mat 16:22 And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, "Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you."
Mat 16:23 But he turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man."
In a matter of a few verses’ Cephas (Peter) goes from having all authority to bind and loose whatever he sees fit in Heaven and Earth to being called satan. As soon as this man had one thought outside of the Will of God, he goes from having authority through God, to being called satan.
Man only has authority when they are living within the Will of God. Mans authority, as it pertains to the matters of faith and Spirit, only exists within the Will of God. It is the Will and Word of God, which gives and has authority, not the man his self.
We as disciples of our Messiah are not to seek authority over others we are to seek to be servants of man. We are continually reminded throughout our Bible to be humble
Psa 25:9 He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way.
Psa 76:9 when God arose to establish judgment, to save all the humble of the earth. Selah
Psa 147:6 The LORD lifts up the humble; he casts the wicked to the ground.
Psa 149:4 For the LORD takes pleasure in his people; he adorns the humble with salvation.
Pro 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.
We are to in all things humble our selves. We are not even to give ourselves titles.
Mat 23:8 But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brothers.
Mat 23:9 And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.
Mat 23:10 Neither be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Christ.
Mat 23:11 The greatest among you shall be your servant.
Mat 23:12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.
Yeshua taught us that we are not to give our selves titles. We are to put all titles of authority away. We are not to claim to be teachers for there is but one teacher We are not to be masters for there is but one Master We are not to be rabbis for there is but one Rabbi. Why would we want to follow men who claim authority when Yeshua commanded us to be humble? If they really had authority over men, wouldn’t they know this truth from our Messiah?
Why do we insist on following those who refuse to humble themselves? Why do we follow men with the very titles that Yeshua taught his followers not to take? If we put our faith in men, they will let us down every time, because all men are flawed.
Mat 20:25 But Jesus called them to him and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them.
Mat 20:26 It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,
Mat 20:27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave,
Mat 20:28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Mar 10:42 And Jesus called them to him and said to them, "You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them.
Mar 10:43 But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,
Mar 10:44 and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all.
Mar 10:45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Man-made LABELS need to be removed from our lives, it is the labels that separate us more than any belief. We start to defend our particular brand of faith after we label it. Most of the time in the midst of this defense we lose sight of the truth, because it just isn’t as important as defending the faith.
Ecc 7:20 Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins.
Rom 3:10 as it is written: "None is righteous, no, not one;
There was only one man whoever walked this earth and truly lived without Sin. There is but one true Messiah and his name is Yeshua (Jesus)! So why then do so many of us put so much faith in men? We all need to take a step back from the doctrines and theologies of men and spend some time in our Holy Scripture, seeking the Truth that can only be found in our Messiah!
The fact is no man can lead you to God. No man can lead you to truth. No man can lead you to salvation. You must seek in order to be found. We as individuals must seek after God in order to find him. We as individuals must seek the truth, in order for it to be given. We as individuals must seek salvation in order for salvation to be found.
Do not believe anything I write because I write it. Put all things to the test. To this day I have not met a perfect man outside of our Messiah. All have sinned, and fallen short. We must stop putting our faith in the hands of flawed men. We must seek our truth through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Which brings us to the next question?
Do we need men to teach us how to understand scripture?
1Jn 2:27 But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie--just as it has taught you, abide in him.
Let no man deceive you. Nobody needs the guidance of men to seek and understand scripture. We must put aside our traditions, and commentaries. And seek the Truth of God within the Word of God. There are no short cuts. Sure in walking out the Holy Scriptures on our own we are gonna fail often. We will get many things wrong in the process. But that is what growth is all about. If you read a book about riding a bike it will never compare to actually trying to ride one and falling a few times. It is in getting up that we learn to ride. It is the same with the Truth in our Holy Scripture. We must learn and fall for our selves. It is in fellowship that we help each other grow and get back up. If you learn a great truth from another man, or commentary then you never really learned it yourself. When Simons name was changed to Peter, and he was given so much authority it was from a revelation from God that made this possible. Not by what he had heard from man!
I am not promoting open rebellion of all authority, not even the authority of men of any faith. I am only pointing out that no man is above reproach. And when we do submit ourselves under the authority of a teacher, we must keep all things in their proper perspective. We must remember that no matter how holy, or righteous a man seems to be. At the end of the day he is only a man.
If Torah is the goal, and Yeshua is the living Torah, we need to stop lowering the bar to the ideas of man and keep our focus on the true target.
As we go forth and test these new ideas in Scripture let us pray that our Father gives us His Spirit of wisdom, understanding, and truth. So we may see and walk as our Messiah walked, and be true disciples in the Name of Yeshua (Jesus). May we pray for eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to change for the glory of our Father!
Monday, May 24, 2010
False Prophets
False Prophets
Mat 7:15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
Mat 7:16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
Mat 7:17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit.
Mat 7:18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.
Mat 7:19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Mat 7:20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.
Lets start, by asking the question. Are we to be cautious of false prophets? Do false Prophets appear like believers on the surface? We are told in Matthew 7:15 to beware of false prophets. They are likened unto sheep’s in wolves’ clothing.
Mat 7:15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
False prophets are very real. They are in place to lead the immature away from the Will of God. They are a very real threat in this world. It is imperative that we are well studied and strong in our faith so we can recognize these wolves, and lead others away from them.
False teachers can be very hard to recognize. The fact is, our flesh is going to seek out the false prophets, over the true every time. True prophets and teachers will teach us to follow the Will of God, and will lead us to obedience. False prophets and teachers will try to show us a false freedom, which is really just a dressed up form of bondage. So how do we know false prophets?
Mat 7:16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
Mat 7:17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit.
Mat 7:18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.
Mat 7:19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Mat 7:20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.
Yeshua (Jesus) said we will recognize them by their fruits. We can see them for whom they are by their works. If you haven’t read the last article, faith of the heirs defined. Please go back and do so before continuing.
Our fruits are our works. If all you see from a teacher is lies and deceit. Or even if all that is seen is some kind of worldly gain, then you may just be dealing with a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Yeshua taught us that no good can come from diseased teachers and their diseased doctrines. We are warned that those who do teach something other than the truth will be cut down and thrown into the fire. So before we go on to describe the disease. Lets take a moment and go over the idea of fruit.
What is good fruit that believers bring forth?
Joh 15:8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
Joh 15:9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.
Joh 15:10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love.
Yeshua taught us that in order to glorify our father, we must bear much fruit. And it is by this that we prove to be Yeshua’s disciples. we are shown that in order to show a true discipleship of our Messiah, we must glorify our Father, and bear much fruit. He teaches that as the Father has loved the Son, so the Son loves us. We are taught to abide in his Love. But once again Love and discipleship are directly linked to keeping the commandments. We are shown that it is by keeping His commandments we abide in his Love. He shows us the idea of discipleship, as following his example, and walking as he walked. And here in verse ten Yeshua (Jesus) our Messiah is teaching us that he kept the Fathers commandments. and by doing so abide’s in His Love.
In order to really claim that we are disciples, we have to walk as our Messiah walked, and our Messiah kept the commandments. These verses are not taken from the Tanach (old Testament.) These are from the gospel of John. These are the words of our Messiah. So why are we so quick to ignore them in favor of teachings from false prophets?
Our flesh wants to believe that there is no Will that we have to follow. Our flesh wants to believe the false interpretations and teachings that say we can now live in sin. We want to believe that freedom from God’s Will is anything other than bondage in its truest form
It is here in John 15:8-10 that we get our truest definition of what fruits are meant to be. So many have fallen under the false interpretation that the fruits are only saved souls. But the simple fact is we do not know the hearts of men. Let’s look at an example. If I were to make a false claim that I have personally saved more than 100,000 souls. How would you know the difference? Or better yet, lets say there was an evangelist that taught that, hey, come up say some magic words, and all your sins are forgiven. And now that you have said these magic words, you will be rich, and have a genie God that will grant all your wishes as long as you send me some trivial amount of money. How many people do you think would line up to be saved by him?
Now lets say, right across the street, another teacher shows the truth of scripture. This teacher teaches from scripture that salvation breed’s obedience. And you are not going to have an easy life because of following this God. You will want to be poor instead of rich, but the possession’s of this life really aren’t important. And all you have belongs to God anyway, so why should we focus on fame and fortune. Whom do you think will be more popular?
Statements of the tongue are not works (Fruit). The fruit that can be seen is ones obedience too our Father through discipleship of the one and only begotten Son, Yeshua (Jesus) our Messiah. These fruits are the keeping of the commandments (Will of God, Law, Law of Moses, LOVE.)
So the exact opposite of fruits would be the disease that we spoke of earlier. It is teaching the false truths and traditions of man. The thorn bush is set to destroy the clear teachings of our Messiah. It is going against the Will of our father that is the disease. I was once one of these false prophets and I didn’t even realize it. I was teaching a gospel that didn’t truly exist in scripture. I taught the free willing sloppy agape that so many have fallen under. I as so many others’ showed only half of the picture.
So one may ask how is it that you were a false prophet without realizeing it? Are their people that think they are bringing forth good fruit, but actually are bringing corrupt fruit?
Mat 7:21 Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
Mat 7:22 On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?'
Mat 7:23 And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'
Not everyone who claims Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven. Doesn’t that just send chills down your spine? The idea that as long as you speak some magic prayer, all is well, takes on a whole new depth of evil doesn’t it. There are many that teach a false gospel. They can prophecy, cast out demons, and even do mighty works in the Lords name. But they never knew him. So how do we know if we know him? Once again by not being workers of lawlessness. So ask yourself, are we supposed to follow the Law?
Some may point out that some translations have the word translated as lawlessness (anomia). And some translators write it as iniquity. So is there a difference between the two? What is the Fathers Will and what is iniquity?
Lev 5:17 And if a soul sin, and commit any of these things which are forbidden to be done by the commandments of the LORD; though he wist it not, yet is he guilty, and shall bear his iniquity.
Sin and iniquity are the definitions of lawlessness. They are the product of going against the Will of our Father (Law, Law of Moses, Torah, commandments.) Leviticus 5:17 says if a soul sin it is by breaking the commandments of the Lord. This is iniquity, lawlessness.
If not all that say Lord, Lord, actually know our Messiah. How do we know that we know Him and are in Him?
1Jn 2:3 And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments.
1Jn 2:4 Whoever says I know him but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him,
1Jn 2:5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him:
1Jn 2:6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
Is the connection becoming clear yet? If we claim to know him, we will keep His commandments. All those who do not are liars’ and the truth is not in them. False prophets will not keep the commandments. False prophets will lead others away from the commandments. It is by keeping the commandments that we know we are in Him. It is by keeping the commandments that the Love of God is perfected, and we know we are in Him. We are to walk as our Messiah walked, and our Messiah kept every single commandment that applied to Him. There is no other interpretation. It is easy to be a false prophet. I was once one, and I didn’t even know it. My intentions were good, but it is often said that the road to Hell is paved with good intentions. Although I was once ashamed that I was a false prophet, through the atoning blood of our Messiah, I was lead to the truth, and am no longer condemned by my sin. I can now use my experience to lead others back to the true Will of God, and to the True Messiah that is plainly shown in Scripture. Which is plan to see when Scripture is left to speak for itself through the Holy Spirit!
I was led to the Messiah that truly saved me, and brought me out of the false traditions of man. I found the truth as shown in Titus
Tit 2:11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people,
Tit 2:12 training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age,
Tit 2:13 waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,
Tit 2:14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.
Tit 2:15 Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you.
Yeshua is the grace of God bringing salvation to all people. It is through this grace that we are trained to renounce ungodliness, and wordily passions that so many false prophets teach as being so important. We are taught to live self controlled, upright, and Godly lives in the present. We are awaiting our blessed Hope, the appearing of the glory of our great savior Yehshua our Messiah (Jesus Christ). Who gave himself to redeem us from all lawlessness not to create lawlessness! To purify himself, a people for His own possession who are zealous for good works (the Law). This is what we are to declare. We are to exhort, and rebuke all other authority, in regards to these things. And let none disregard us.
We were forewarned that many false prophets would arise, and what they would do.
Mat 24:11 And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray.
Mat 24:12 And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.
Mat 24:13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved.
Mat 24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
Many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. Because lawlessness (anomia) will be increased. The very teaching that so many have fallen under, the idea of no Law But it is those who endure this false teaching of false prophets that will be saved. And the True gospel of the Kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations. It is then that the end will come. Until we wake up and start proclaiming the True gospel, the end will not come. The time for this is now. The awakening is happening. It is time for the true disciples to endure and teach the Truth as seen in Holy Scripture, as shown by the Holy Spirit, and not by man.
We see in Daniel what some of these false teachings would be.
Dan 7:25 He shall speak words against the Most High, and shall wear out the saints of the Most High, and shall think to change the times and the law; and they shall be given into his hand for a time, times, and half a time.
The false prophet will bring lawlessness, he will wear out the saints, and change the times and the Law. The Law was never meant to change. The times of the Holy days were never meant to change. It is the false prophet that will teach these lies.
We are warned in 2 Peter of these false prophets also.
2Pe 2:1 But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction.
2Pe 2:2 And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed.
If you remember from previous articles denying the Word, is denying our Messiah. Many false prophets do not even realize that by teaching an anti Law theology they are in fact denying the Messiah, they claim as Lord, Lord Remember the warning’s of destruction set forth by our Holy Scripture. Remember the lessons shown to us through Israel of old in their bondage for disobeying the Will of God.
We are told that many will follow their sensuality, and by them the way of Truth as shown by the Law is blasphemed.
Since iniquity is sin, why do people let these numerous false prophets cause others and themselves to sin?
2Ti 4:2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.
2Ti 4:3 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions,
2Ti 4:4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.
Man’s fallen flesh will lead them to these false prophets because the flesh wants to suit its own passion. It is by allowing these false teachers to enter into our lives that we are allowing those to turn Holy Truth into mere myth. Many false prophets today use the prosperity message to led others away from sound teachings. Through this many are coming in droves to suit there own passions and are more than willing to forgo the Law of God in their lives.
We have spoken a lot about false prophets and teachings up to this point. But what is the way or truth that will be spoken of as evil by false prophets?
Psa 119:142 Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and thy law is the truth.
Dan 9:13 As it is written in the law of Moses, all this evil is come upon us: yet made we not our prayer before the LORD our God, that we might turn from our iniquities (lawlessness), and understand thy truth.
Mal 2:6 The law of truth was in his mouth, and iniquity was not found in his lips: he walked with me in peace and equity, and did turn many away from iniquity.
If Yeshua (Jesus) was the Word made flesh, and the Law is the Truth, is Yeshua the Truth?
Joh 14:6 Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Joh 14:7 If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.
Yeshua is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him. If you claim to know Yeshua (Jesus) you would have known the Father.
If Yeshua is the Truth, which is also the Word and Law, what is the Life and the way?
Pro 6:23 For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way of life,
Pro 13:13 Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded.
Pro 13:14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death.
Pro 13:15 Good sense wins favor, but the way of the treacherous is their ruin.
Scripture is not written in code. The way of truth is plan, and it is found in what so many call the Law. We must stop denying who our Messiah is and teach Him from the Scripture that so plainly describes Him.
There are many false prophets in our world. And the first message they teach is that the law is no more. We have to see these teachings for what they are. Because often the most vile false prophet doesn’t even realize what he is teaching. I am speaking from experience.
As we go forth and test these new ideas in Scripture let us pray that our Father gives us His Spirit of wisdom, understanding, and truth. So we may see and walk as our Messiah walked, and be true disciples in the Name of Yeshua (Jesus). May we pray for eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to change for the glory of our Father
Mat 7:15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
Mat 7:16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
Mat 7:17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit.
Mat 7:18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.
Mat 7:19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Mat 7:20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.
Lets start, by asking the question. Are we to be cautious of false prophets? Do false Prophets appear like believers on the surface? We are told in Matthew 7:15 to beware of false prophets. They are likened unto sheep’s in wolves’ clothing.
Mat 7:15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
False prophets are very real. They are in place to lead the immature away from the Will of God. They are a very real threat in this world. It is imperative that we are well studied and strong in our faith so we can recognize these wolves, and lead others away from them.
False teachers can be very hard to recognize. The fact is, our flesh is going to seek out the false prophets, over the true every time. True prophets and teachers will teach us to follow the Will of God, and will lead us to obedience. False prophets and teachers will try to show us a false freedom, which is really just a dressed up form of bondage. So how do we know false prophets?
Mat 7:16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
Mat 7:17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit.
Mat 7:18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.
Mat 7:19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Mat 7:20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.
Yeshua (Jesus) said we will recognize them by their fruits. We can see them for whom they are by their works. If you haven’t read the last article, faith of the heirs defined. Please go back and do so before continuing.
Our fruits are our works. If all you see from a teacher is lies and deceit. Or even if all that is seen is some kind of worldly gain, then you may just be dealing with a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Yeshua taught us that no good can come from diseased teachers and their diseased doctrines. We are warned that those who do teach something other than the truth will be cut down and thrown into the fire. So before we go on to describe the disease. Lets take a moment and go over the idea of fruit.
What is good fruit that believers bring forth?
Joh 15:8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
Joh 15:9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.
Joh 15:10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love.
Yeshua taught us that in order to glorify our father, we must bear much fruit. And it is by this that we prove to be Yeshua’s disciples. we are shown that in order to show a true discipleship of our Messiah, we must glorify our Father, and bear much fruit. He teaches that as the Father has loved the Son, so the Son loves us. We are taught to abide in his Love. But once again Love and discipleship are directly linked to keeping the commandments. We are shown that it is by keeping His commandments we abide in his Love. He shows us the idea of discipleship, as following his example, and walking as he walked. And here in verse ten Yeshua (Jesus) our Messiah is teaching us that he kept the Fathers commandments. and by doing so abide’s in His Love.
In order to really claim that we are disciples, we have to walk as our Messiah walked, and our Messiah kept the commandments. These verses are not taken from the Tanach (old Testament.) These are from the gospel of John. These are the words of our Messiah. So why are we so quick to ignore them in favor of teachings from false prophets?
Our flesh wants to believe that there is no Will that we have to follow. Our flesh wants to believe the false interpretations and teachings that say we can now live in sin. We want to believe that freedom from God’s Will is anything other than bondage in its truest form
It is here in John 15:8-10 that we get our truest definition of what fruits are meant to be. So many have fallen under the false interpretation that the fruits are only saved souls. But the simple fact is we do not know the hearts of men. Let’s look at an example. If I were to make a false claim that I have personally saved more than 100,000 souls. How would you know the difference? Or better yet, lets say there was an evangelist that taught that, hey, come up say some magic words, and all your sins are forgiven. And now that you have said these magic words, you will be rich, and have a genie God that will grant all your wishes as long as you send me some trivial amount of money. How many people do you think would line up to be saved by him?
Now lets say, right across the street, another teacher shows the truth of scripture. This teacher teaches from scripture that salvation breed’s obedience. And you are not going to have an easy life because of following this God. You will want to be poor instead of rich, but the possession’s of this life really aren’t important. And all you have belongs to God anyway, so why should we focus on fame and fortune. Whom do you think will be more popular?
Statements of the tongue are not works (Fruit). The fruit that can be seen is ones obedience too our Father through discipleship of the one and only begotten Son, Yeshua (Jesus) our Messiah. These fruits are the keeping of the commandments (Will of God, Law, Law of Moses, LOVE.)
So the exact opposite of fruits would be the disease that we spoke of earlier. It is teaching the false truths and traditions of man. The thorn bush is set to destroy the clear teachings of our Messiah. It is going against the Will of our father that is the disease. I was once one of these false prophets and I didn’t even realize it. I was teaching a gospel that didn’t truly exist in scripture. I taught the free willing sloppy agape that so many have fallen under. I as so many others’ showed only half of the picture.
So one may ask how is it that you were a false prophet without realizeing it? Are their people that think they are bringing forth good fruit, but actually are bringing corrupt fruit?
Mat 7:21 Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
Mat 7:22 On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?'
Mat 7:23 And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'
Not everyone who claims Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven. Doesn’t that just send chills down your spine? The idea that as long as you speak some magic prayer, all is well, takes on a whole new depth of evil doesn’t it. There are many that teach a false gospel. They can prophecy, cast out demons, and even do mighty works in the Lords name. But they never knew him. So how do we know if we know him? Once again by not being workers of lawlessness. So ask yourself, are we supposed to follow the Law?
Some may point out that some translations have the word translated as lawlessness (anomia). And some translators write it as iniquity. So is there a difference between the two? What is the Fathers Will and what is iniquity?
Lev 5:17 And if a soul sin, and commit any of these things which are forbidden to be done by the commandments of the LORD; though he wist it not, yet is he guilty, and shall bear his iniquity.
Sin and iniquity are the definitions of lawlessness. They are the product of going against the Will of our Father (Law, Law of Moses, Torah, commandments.) Leviticus 5:17 says if a soul sin it is by breaking the commandments of the Lord. This is iniquity, lawlessness.
If not all that say Lord, Lord, actually know our Messiah. How do we know that we know Him and are in Him?
1Jn 2:3 And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments.
1Jn 2:4 Whoever says I know him but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him,
1Jn 2:5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him:
1Jn 2:6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.
Is the connection becoming clear yet? If we claim to know him, we will keep His commandments. All those who do not are liars’ and the truth is not in them. False prophets will not keep the commandments. False prophets will lead others away from the commandments. It is by keeping the commandments that we know we are in Him. It is by keeping the commandments that the Love of God is perfected, and we know we are in Him. We are to walk as our Messiah walked, and our Messiah kept every single commandment that applied to Him. There is no other interpretation. It is easy to be a false prophet. I was once one, and I didn’t even know it. My intentions were good, but it is often said that the road to Hell is paved with good intentions. Although I was once ashamed that I was a false prophet, through the atoning blood of our Messiah, I was lead to the truth, and am no longer condemned by my sin. I can now use my experience to lead others back to the true Will of God, and to the True Messiah that is plainly shown in Scripture. Which is plan to see when Scripture is left to speak for itself through the Holy Spirit!
I was led to the Messiah that truly saved me, and brought me out of the false traditions of man. I found the truth as shown in Titus
Tit 2:11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people,
Tit 2:12 training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age,
Tit 2:13 waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,
Tit 2:14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.
Tit 2:15 Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you.
Yeshua is the grace of God bringing salvation to all people. It is through this grace that we are trained to renounce ungodliness, and wordily passions that so many false prophets teach as being so important. We are taught to live self controlled, upright, and Godly lives in the present. We are awaiting our blessed Hope, the appearing of the glory of our great savior Yehshua our Messiah (Jesus Christ). Who gave himself to redeem us from all lawlessness not to create lawlessness! To purify himself, a people for His own possession who are zealous for good works (the Law). This is what we are to declare. We are to exhort, and rebuke all other authority, in regards to these things. And let none disregard us.
We were forewarned that many false prophets would arise, and what they would do.
Mat 24:11 And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray.
Mat 24:12 And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.
Mat 24:13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved.
Mat 24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
Many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. Because lawlessness (anomia) will be increased. The very teaching that so many have fallen under, the idea of no Law But it is those who endure this false teaching of false prophets that will be saved. And the True gospel of the Kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations. It is then that the end will come. Until we wake up and start proclaiming the True gospel, the end will not come. The time for this is now. The awakening is happening. It is time for the true disciples to endure and teach the Truth as seen in Holy Scripture, as shown by the Holy Spirit, and not by man.
We see in Daniel what some of these false teachings would be.
Dan 7:25 He shall speak words against the Most High, and shall wear out the saints of the Most High, and shall think to change the times and the law; and they shall be given into his hand for a time, times, and half a time.
The false prophet will bring lawlessness, he will wear out the saints, and change the times and the Law. The Law was never meant to change. The times of the Holy days were never meant to change. It is the false prophet that will teach these lies.
We are warned in 2 Peter of these false prophets also.
2Pe 2:1 But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction.
2Pe 2:2 And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed.
If you remember from previous articles denying the Word, is denying our Messiah. Many false prophets do not even realize that by teaching an anti Law theology they are in fact denying the Messiah, they claim as Lord, Lord Remember the warning’s of destruction set forth by our Holy Scripture. Remember the lessons shown to us through Israel of old in their bondage for disobeying the Will of God.
We are told that many will follow their sensuality, and by them the way of Truth as shown by the Law is blasphemed.
Since iniquity is sin, why do people let these numerous false prophets cause others and themselves to sin?
2Ti 4:2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.
2Ti 4:3 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions,
2Ti 4:4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.
Man’s fallen flesh will lead them to these false prophets because the flesh wants to suit its own passion. It is by allowing these false teachers to enter into our lives that we are allowing those to turn Holy Truth into mere myth. Many false prophets today use the prosperity message to led others away from sound teachings. Through this many are coming in droves to suit there own passions and are more than willing to forgo the Law of God in their lives.
We have spoken a lot about false prophets and teachings up to this point. But what is the way or truth that will be spoken of as evil by false prophets?
Psa 119:142 Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and thy law is the truth.
Dan 9:13 As it is written in the law of Moses, all this evil is come upon us: yet made we not our prayer before the LORD our God, that we might turn from our iniquities (lawlessness), and understand thy truth.
Mal 2:6 The law of truth was in his mouth, and iniquity was not found in his lips: he walked with me in peace and equity, and did turn many away from iniquity.
If Yeshua (Jesus) was the Word made flesh, and the Law is the Truth, is Yeshua the Truth?
Joh 14:6 Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Joh 14:7 If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.
Yeshua is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him. If you claim to know Yeshua (Jesus) you would have known the Father.
If Yeshua is the Truth, which is also the Word and Law, what is the Life and the way?
Pro 6:23 For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way of life,
Pro 13:13 Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded.
Pro 13:14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death.
Pro 13:15 Good sense wins favor, but the way of the treacherous is their ruin.
Scripture is not written in code. The way of truth is plan, and it is found in what so many call the Law. We must stop denying who our Messiah is and teach Him from the Scripture that so plainly describes Him.
There are many false prophets in our world. And the first message they teach is that the law is no more. We have to see these teachings for what they are. Because often the most vile false prophet doesn’t even realize what he is teaching. I am speaking from experience.
As we go forth and test these new ideas in Scripture let us pray that our Father gives us His Spirit of wisdom, understanding, and truth. So we may see and walk as our Messiah walked, and be true disciples in the Name of Yeshua (Jesus). May we pray for eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to change for the glory of our Father
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Faith of the heirs defined
Faith of the heirs defined
Many people get confused by the idea that we are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. But what is the Seed of Abraham?
Isa 41:8 But thou, Israel, art my servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, the seed of Abraham my friend.
So Israel is described as the Seed of Abraham.
Gal 3:26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.
Gal 3:27 For as many as were baptized into Christ, you put on Christ.
Gal 3:28 There cannot be Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is no male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Gal 3:29 And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed and heirs according to the promise.
If you are Messiah's then you are Abraham's Seed. We are Israel. We are heirs to the covenant.
Nevertheless, we may ask “If we are heirs of the promise of Abraham, are we to follow the Laws and commandments like Abraham did?” We can stop here and point out that whether or not Abraham had the whole Law, as given on mount Sinai, or the true interpretation of that Law through Messiah, is irrelevant. Moses wrote it for Israel, and we are Israel, who believe in Yeshua; Yeshua and all the Apostles kept it…all their lives. With that said lets once again look to scripture for our answer.
Joh 8:39 They answered and said to Him, Abraham is our father. Jesus answered them, If you were Abraham's children, you would do the works of Abraham.
So what were the works of Abraham? The simple answer is, he kept the Will of God, He followed the commandments of God, the way God instructed. And this is what we are to do.
Abraham believed God and he obeyed God.
Gen 15:6 And he believed the LORD, and he counted it to him as righteousness.
Gen 22:11 But the angel of the LORD called to him from heaven and said, "Abraham, Abraham!" And he said, "Here am I."
Gen 22:12 He said, "Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me."
As stated earlier whether or not Abraham had the Law in its entirety is irrelevant, for we do have the Law given to us by God in its entirety. We have the true explanation of this Law and the example of how to walk it out in our Messiah. This is the example of Abraham: that we keep, and walk in the Will of our God
It is here that I believe we should take some time to go over another concept that has been grossly misunderstood, and misrepresented. What is faith? We can speak for days on the different concepts of Faith and how to show it. But instead why don’t we put aside all the nonsense of men, and see what our Bible has to say about the subject.
Heb 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
So we have to ask our selves what is it we hope for? Many use the idea of faith to attempt to do away with the Will of God in our lives. And if this is what ones’ hope is for, it is what one will find. But if our hope is for Salvation we are called to know and follow the Will of God. This takes a whole different path doesn't it? So lets see what faith is, as defined by hoping in the Will of God.
1Jn 5:1 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God. And everyone who loves Him who begets also loves him who has been born of Him.
1Jn 5:2 By this we know that we love the children of God, whenever we love God and keep His commandments.
1Jn 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments, and His commandments are not burdensome.
1Jn 5:4 For everything that has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that overcomes the world, our faith.
Faith, as defined by scripture, in an open sense, is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. The further definition of what the faith of a believer and follower of our Messiah is, can be found in 1 john 5:1-4. Everyone who believes in Messiah is born of God, and whoever is born of God loves his fellow man. To show love we must keep the commandments of God, which are not burdensome. It is by this we overcome the world, and have victory. This is our Faith defined.
The idea that faith somehow does away with the Will of God (Law, Law of Moses, Torah) simply does not come form Scripture. There are a few examples in Scripture that can be taken grossly out of context, and be used to create contradictions in Scripture that do not exist. But this is where the false religions of man are born from. It is time to put all of our nature, traditions, and religion aside and seek the Truth of Scripture in Scripture.
So now that we have defined, faith lets take a look at another misunderstood and misrepresented idea. What is Works?
Mat 5:16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in Heaven.
Works are the light that shines before men to glorify our Father who is in Heaven. Works are following the example of our Messiah. Works, is the Love of God, and the love of man. Works is the Law moving through our individual lives. It is how we show the world the Love of our Creator. Our works are what we are judged by, both in the eyes of God and man. It is by works (fruit) that we know false prophets. It is by works (fruit) that we know wolves in sheep clothing. And it is by Works that our reward will be given.
Rev 22:12 And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to each according as his work is.
If Letting our light shine is good works, which earns our rewards. What is the light that we show before man? You may have been wondering where is the connection between faith, works, and the Law? So lets look to Scripture to find these answer’s as well
Pro 6:23 For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life.
The light we are to show in the world is the Word (Torah, Law, Gods Will). The light we are to show is the Messiah, for our Messiah is the Word. To deny the Word, is to deny the Messiah.
Joh 8:12 Then Jesus spoke again to them, saying, I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
And what is Light?
So why did Yeshua consider himself to be the light if the light is the Law (Torah, Will of God)?
Joh 1:14 And the Word became flesh, and tabernacled among us. And we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and of truth.
The Word was made flesh this is why denying the Word is denying the Messiah I know this seems harsh but it really isn’t, and this Truth must be seen. The Light is the Law, the Word, our Messiah. Our Messiah is the living Word, the living Torah, the Living Law. He did not do away with the Law, because he is the Law. Our Messiah did not come into this world to do away with himself, or to somehow make himself irrelevant
For those who are uncomfortable with this idea it may help to remember the idea of true discipleship.
1Jn 2:6 He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk even as He walked.
The Him in Scripture is our Messiah Yeshua (Jesus). If you are uncomfortable with the truths presented here, simply look at our Messiahs life. See how he walked, and simply imitate Him. And you will do well indeed.
So now that we have defined faith I think the next logical question is how do we perfect our faith?
Jas 2:21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?
Jas 2:22 Do you see how faith worked with his works, and from the works faith was made complete?
Jas 2:23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed to him for righteousness, and he was called the friend of God.
Jas 2:24 You see then how a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.
Faith is made perfect by works and not by faith alone. It is through the keeping of Gods commandments that we find ourselves growing closer in our walk with our Messiah. It is through keeping the Will of
God, and true discipleship, that we are found nearer to our God.
So Lets once again look at the relationship between faith and works.
Jas 2:17 Even so, if it does not have works, faith is dead, being by itself.,
Jas 2:26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
We must come to the revelation that our works are not simply how we treat others. It isn't going to church, or speaking with our lips. Our works are living in and through the Word. Our works are defined in what many would call the Law. Our Works are defined in the word, Love. Which is a summarization of the greatest two commandments, to Love God above all else, and Love our neighbor as ourselves. The two greatest commandments are a further summarization of the Big 10, which so many are familiar with. And the 10 commandments are a summarization of the entire Torah ( Law). These are our works defined, not by man, but by God
So how do we show our faith? Many people have asked this question. Can we show it by the type of clothing we wear? Or maybe it is seen if we wear a really big Gold cross around our neck? Some people are even offended at the idea that we are supposed to show our faith. Some think that showing our faith is flaunting it, and trying to be self righteous. And yes there are some out there that wear certain cloths and have big necklaces and really try to show off their religion. But there is a big difference in showing of your religion and walking in our faith. This is where knowing the Torah (Law, Will of God) comes in handy. So to seek these Truths lets see what our Scripture holds.
Jas 2:18 But someone will say, You have faith and I have works. Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.
We are to show our faith by our works. It is only through our works that our faith is seen. Anyone can wear a cross necklace. Anyone can join a church. But only a true disciple of our Messiah is going to follow his example and learn to walk, and live in the Will of God.
So is it even possible for works to please God without faith? And before you answer, go back and look at how faith is defined in Scripture for a believer, follower, and disciple of our Messiah. Lets take a few moments and really think about faith defined. And when we are done lets look to Scripture for our answer.
Heb 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
It is not possible to have faith without works, it is simply not possible to have faith, see all that our God has created, and to see all that our Messiah went through, without being obedient. However it is possible to have works without faith, but these works are not the works of God, and they are not founded in his will, so they will bear no-good fruit. And as such, God will not accept them as works to Him, but work’s to the world, and of inequity. Our faith is shown through our works. The greater ones’ faith, the greater are ones works through obedience. Salvation is given by faith, and through grace. And Grace is evidence of our Gods love for us. Our obedience is a result of our faith, and proven by our works. Which in turn is proof of our Love of our God Remember all works are meant to glorify our God
I pray that we be given eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to change as we go forth to put these perspectives to the test of Scripture, and seek the Truth of God. And in this Truth may we find the true peace of God in our lives.
Many people get confused by the idea that we are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. But what is the Seed of Abraham?
Isa 41:8 But thou, Israel, art my servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, the seed of Abraham my friend.
So Israel is described as the Seed of Abraham.
Gal 3:26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.
Gal 3:27 For as many as were baptized into Christ, you put on Christ.
Gal 3:28 There cannot be Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is no male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Gal 3:29 And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed and heirs according to the promise.
If you are Messiah's then you are Abraham's Seed. We are Israel. We are heirs to the covenant.
Nevertheless, we may ask “If we are heirs of the promise of Abraham, are we to follow the Laws and commandments like Abraham did?” We can stop here and point out that whether or not Abraham had the whole Law, as given on mount Sinai, or the true interpretation of that Law through Messiah, is irrelevant. Moses wrote it for Israel, and we are Israel, who believe in Yeshua; Yeshua and all the Apostles kept it…all their lives. With that said lets once again look to scripture for our answer.
Joh 8:39 They answered and said to Him, Abraham is our father. Jesus answered them, If you were Abraham's children, you would do the works of Abraham.
So what were the works of Abraham? The simple answer is, he kept the Will of God, He followed the commandments of God, the way God instructed. And this is what we are to do.
Abraham believed God and he obeyed God.
Gen 15:6 And he believed the LORD, and he counted it to him as righteousness.
Gen 22:11 But the angel of the LORD called to him from heaven and said, "Abraham, Abraham!" And he said, "Here am I."
Gen 22:12 He said, "Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me."
As stated earlier whether or not Abraham had the Law in its entirety is irrelevant, for we do have the Law given to us by God in its entirety. We have the true explanation of this Law and the example of how to walk it out in our Messiah. This is the example of Abraham: that we keep, and walk in the Will of our God
It is here that I believe we should take some time to go over another concept that has been grossly misunderstood, and misrepresented. What is faith? We can speak for days on the different concepts of Faith and how to show it. But instead why don’t we put aside all the nonsense of men, and see what our Bible has to say about the subject.
Heb 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
So we have to ask our selves what is it we hope for? Many use the idea of faith to attempt to do away with the Will of God in our lives. And if this is what ones’ hope is for, it is what one will find. But if our hope is for Salvation we are called to know and follow the Will of God. This takes a whole different path doesn't it? So lets see what faith is, as defined by hoping in the Will of God.
1Jn 5:1 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God. And everyone who loves Him who begets also loves him who has been born of Him.
1Jn 5:2 By this we know that we love the children of God, whenever we love God and keep His commandments.
1Jn 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments, and His commandments are not burdensome.
1Jn 5:4 For everything that has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that overcomes the world, our faith.
Faith, as defined by scripture, in an open sense, is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. The further definition of what the faith of a believer and follower of our Messiah is, can be found in 1 john 5:1-4. Everyone who believes in Messiah is born of God, and whoever is born of God loves his fellow man. To show love we must keep the commandments of God, which are not burdensome. It is by this we overcome the world, and have victory. This is our Faith defined.
The idea that faith somehow does away with the Will of God (Law, Law of Moses, Torah) simply does not come form Scripture. There are a few examples in Scripture that can be taken grossly out of context, and be used to create contradictions in Scripture that do not exist. But this is where the false religions of man are born from. It is time to put all of our nature, traditions, and religion aside and seek the Truth of Scripture in Scripture.
So now that we have defined, faith lets take a look at another misunderstood and misrepresented idea. What is Works?
Mat 5:16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in Heaven.
Works are the light that shines before men to glorify our Father who is in Heaven. Works are following the example of our Messiah. Works, is the Love of God, and the love of man. Works is the Law moving through our individual lives. It is how we show the world the Love of our Creator. Our works are what we are judged by, both in the eyes of God and man. It is by works (fruit) that we know false prophets. It is by works (fruit) that we know wolves in sheep clothing. And it is by Works that our reward will be given.
Rev 22:12 And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to each according as his work is.
If Letting our light shine is good works, which earns our rewards. What is the light that we show before man? You may have been wondering where is the connection between faith, works, and the Law? So lets look to Scripture to find these answer’s as well
Pro 6:23 For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life.
The light we are to show in the world is the Word (Torah, Law, Gods Will). The light we are to show is the Messiah, for our Messiah is the Word. To deny the Word, is to deny the Messiah.
Joh 8:12 Then Jesus spoke again to them, saying, I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
And what is Light?
So why did Yeshua consider himself to be the light if the light is the Law (Torah, Will of God)?
Joh 1:14 And the Word became flesh, and tabernacled among us. And we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and of truth.
The Word was made flesh this is why denying the Word is denying the Messiah I know this seems harsh but it really isn’t, and this Truth must be seen. The Light is the Law, the Word, our Messiah. Our Messiah is the living Word, the living Torah, the Living Law. He did not do away with the Law, because he is the Law. Our Messiah did not come into this world to do away with himself, or to somehow make himself irrelevant
For those who are uncomfortable with this idea it may help to remember the idea of true discipleship.
1Jn 2:6 He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk even as He walked.
The Him in Scripture is our Messiah Yeshua (Jesus). If you are uncomfortable with the truths presented here, simply look at our Messiahs life. See how he walked, and simply imitate Him. And you will do well indeed.
So now that we have defined faith I think the next logical question is how do we perfect our faith?
Jas 2:21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?
Jas 2:22 Do you see how faith worked with his works, and from the works faith was made complete?
Jas 2:23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed to him for righteousness, and he was called the friend of God.
Jas 2:24 You see then how a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.
Faith is made perfect by works and not by faith alone. It is through the keeping of Gods commandments that we find ourselves growing closer in our walk with our Messiah. It is through keeping the Will of
God, and true discipleship, that we are found nearer to our God.
So Lets once again look at the relationship between faith and works.
Jas 2:17 Even so, if it does not have works, faith is dead, being by itself.,
Jas 2:26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
We must come to the revelation that our works are not simply how we treat others. It isn't going to church, or speaking with our lips. Our works are living in and through the Word. Our works are defined in what many would call the Law. Our Works are defined in the word, Love. Which is a summarization of the greatest two commandments, to Love God above all else, and Love our neighbor as ourselves. The two greatest commandments are a further summarization of the Big 10, which so many are familiar with. And the 10 commandments are a summarization of the entire Torah ( Law). These are our works defined, not by man, but by God
So how do we show our faith? Many people have asked this question. Can we show it by the type of clothing we wear? Or maybe it is seen if we wear a really big Gold cross around our neck? Some people are even offended at the idea that we are supposed to show our faith. Some think that showing our faith is flaunting it, and trying to be self righteous. And yes there are some out there that wear certain cloths and have big necklaces and really try to show off their religion. But there is a big difference in showing of your religion and walking in our faith. This is where knowing the Torah (Law, Will of God) comes in handy. So to seek these Truths lets see what our Scripture holds.
Jas 2:18 But someone will say, You have faith and I have works. Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.
We are to show our faith by our works. It is only through our works that our faith is seen. Anyone can wear a cross necklace. Anyone can join a church. But only a true disciple of our Messiah is going to follow his example and learn to walk, and live in the Will of God.
So is it even possible for works to please God without faith? And before you answer, go back and look at how faith is defined in Scripture for a believer, follower, and disciple of our Messiah. Lets take a few moments and really think about faith defined. And when we are done lets look to Scripture for our answer.
Heb 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
It is not possible to have faith without works, it is simply not possible to have faith, see all that our God has created, and to see all that our Messiah went through, without being obedient. However it is possible to have works without faith, but these works are not the works of God, and they are not founded in his will, so they will bear no-good fruit. And as such, God will not accept them as works to Him, but work’s to the world, and of inequity. Our faith is shown through our works. The greater ones’ faith, the greater are ones works through obedience. Salvation is given by faith, and through grace. And Grace is evidence of our Gods love for us. Our obedience is a result of our faith, and proven by our works. Which in turn is proof of our Love of our God Remember all works are meant to glorify our God
I pray that we be given eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to change as we go forth to put these perspectives to the test of Scripture, and seek the Truth of God. And in this Truth may we find the true peace of God in our lives.
Monday, May 10, 2010
When did the commandments change?
When did the commandments change?
We know that in the past the commandments were there and valid. I do not think that many people will dispute this fact. But many believe that sometime after Yeshua’s death and resurrection they changed. It was no longer about the Will of God but, doing whatever we want as long as we believe, love Him, and others. But is this really the case? If it is, wouldn’t it stand to reason that if the commandments were changed, fulfilled, or done away with, that this is how it will be from now on? Will Yeshua have the same commandments during his reign when he returns? Lets look to scripture and see.
Isa 2:2 It shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be lifted up above the hills; and all the nations shall flow to it,
Isa 2:3 and many peoples shall come, and say: Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths. For out of Zion shall go the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.
Isa 2:4 He shall judge between the nations, and shall decide disputes for many peoples; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.
Here in this very prophecy of our Lords return, and his reign. (Isa 2:3 and many peoples shall come, and say: Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths. For out of Zion shall go the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.) So what is this Law being spoken of here. Some simply think it will be the command of the King. And while they are right they should know that these will not be new commands. They are the same that we have had from the beginning. The Law here is an English translation of the Hebrew word “Torah.” Don’t take my word for it, check for yourselves. So why would our Messiah do away with the Law if it is prophesied that he will teach us His ways, so we can walk in His paths “the Torah,” and after His second coming and during His Millennial reign. Also, it may be good to point out here that the Law going forth will not just be his voice or speaking, as I have heard and taught it myself in the past. For the Scripture also states, that along with the Law, the Word will also go forth.
We know that the Law as many call it, was valid in the Past, we know that the Law will be valid in the future, so why do we think that it isn’t valid now? How many of us have really pondered this question? I know I never did. I was happy in my knowledge that the Law (Will of God, Torah, Pentateuch) was not meant for me, and was either fulfilled or done away with. And I never wanted to see the truth of the matter. I never sought the truth as it pertained to the Law. Quite simply because I didn’t want the true Will of God in my life. I liked the idea that I wasn’t really held accountable for my sins. I liked not having to worship God in His way. I liked the illusion that I had control over my life, I was terribly wrong. And to any out there that I taught these ideas too in the past that read this article, all I can do is apologize for my mistakes. I have been asked: “Why would you want to follow the Law when we can simply live under grace?” And the answer is simple, because that is what my God asks of me. It isn’t about me or what I want! And, I also point out that they should take a better look at how grace is defined in Scripture. We have to be willing to put aside our own pride, and stop pondering these questions on our own. The fact of the matter is we have instruction to lead us in Gods way, and we have the Holy Spirit to guide us through these very Scriptures.
So many would try and do away with the Will of God in their lives. They would rather listen to flawed men than seek Divine Truth. I have been given so many excuses in my life, as to why we do not need the Will of God. It is scary just how easy it is to justify in our hearts, not following the Will of God. And to say that we no longer need the Law is doing this very thing. It is through the Law (Torah) that we know God. It is through the Law (Torah) that we know sin. And without it we cannot know either. We are ships crashing in a storm being tossed from one side to the other. We must seek shelter in the storm, and the only real shelter to be found is in the Word of God.
Now lets look at the past. Because it is the belief held by many that the Will of God changed from the beginning, to mount Sinai. So why couldn’t his will change again? But did the Will of God ever change? Did even Abraham already have the Law and the Commandments, or was the Law a new invention at mount Sinai? Once again to find our answer before we start speculating on our own, lets look to Scripture.
Gen 26:4 I will multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven and will give to your offspring all these lands. And in your offspring all the nations of the earth shall be blessed,
Gen 26:5 because Abraham obeyed my voice and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws."
Here we see that according to our Scripture Abraham did in fact have the Will of God. (Gen 26:5 because Abraham obeyed my voice and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws." ). Were they in the complete form as given on Mount Sinai? That we do not know, but we know that His Will didn’t change. We know that there were charges, commandments, statues, and Laws given to him. So we know the Law (Torah, God’s Will) predates mount Sinai. We also know that not even sacrifice was only given to us by God on Mount Sinai. (Gen 4:3 In the course of time Cain brought to the LORD an offering of the fruit of the ground,
Gen 4:4 and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and his offering,)
Now begs the question who taught Cain and able to sacrifice to God? Who taught Abraham what was right in the sight of God? Who taught the Israelites how to worship God? Who taught the world Love through our Messiah Yeshua? In all cases it is God, the Father, the creator of all creation, the God of Abraham, Jacob, and Isaac, The God of Israel. It may also be helpful to remember, to put all things in their proper perspective. The Law was given at the same time as the history of the world was given. God gave Moses the History that is the Torah (first five books, Pentateuch), and along with this History he gave us his Will, through His Law. Why do we intend to change our Gods Will, when He is the one who gives it to us? That is the way it was in the beginning, now, and in the future. We must let our own natures be silenced and follow God, His way, not our own. This has been said before and it will be said again. GOD does not change, not his mind, not His Will, not His Plans. They have been the same from the beginning and they will continue for ever. We must stop trying to change our God and accept that we are the ones in need of change. God does not change to fit us. We change to follow Him.
Now comes the idea that all traditions are good and we must simply follow them. So we need to ask ourselves. Can we be corrupted or spoiled by mans philosophy, tradition, and principles of the world?
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
We must beware of any deceit or tradition that teaches us to walk in any way that is contrary to how our Master walked. Some would even accuse me of bringing some new deceitful philosophy with these articles. And in response to these accusations, all I ask is that you put these ideas to the test of Scripture. Not one passage taken out of context, not one book, but the whole of Scripture. Look to how our Messiah walked. Did our Messiah do away with any of God’s Will (Torah)? Of course not. When presented with a challenge, or problem, where did our Messiah get his answers? They came from the Torah, don’t take my word for it look for yourself. Really look at how our Messiah walked, do a study of true discipleship. Step away from vain teachings of deceit, and false traditions of man to justify sin. And look to God for your answers. Go to Scripture in prayer! Put all things to the test of Scripture. Not just these writings, but all writings of men. I do not claim to have a patent on truth. As a matter of fact I am just as wrong on many things as anyone else. Never take, any mans word for anything, without putting it to the test in Scripture, and through prayer. We must guard our hearts. There are false traditions of men in this world. Just because one comes claiming to be a man of God be weary for he may be a wolf in sheep clothing. If anyone brings a gospel that is not congruent with scripture, turn and flee from it. When a man tells you that we are to be rich with worldly possession because that is what is needed to be happy flee from it. If one brings a gospel that teaches you to walk in any way outside of the example set for us by our Messiah flee from it. Take the time to read and see how our Messiah truly walked on this earth, and when we go forth in study of Scripture we must keep this in mind for a true prospective, and context. The idea that our Messiah only walked in Gods Law (Torah, God's Will) before his crucifiction, simple does not hold water when put under the scrutiny of Scripture. The Law wasnt done away with after the resurrection. In Acts 1:1-4, Yeshua taught His Apostles about the Kingdom of God and not one place in Acts do the Apostles, including Paul, say the Law is done away with. Just as we have no right to change our God or His Will, we have no right to change our Messiah.
In conclusion The Law (Torah) has been with us since we were created. God instructs His people in His ways. It was this way for Adam, Abraham, Moses, and us today. It hasn’t changed. There is no indication in Scripture to point that this has not ever been the case. The Law (Torah, Will of God) does not change. We are the ones that change. We are to become closer in relationship with our God. That is the purpose of the Law (Torah, Will of God) in our lives. So we can learn His teachings, His way. So we can walk in a covenant relationship once again. So we can come in the presence of our God without being destroyed. It shows us sin so we can remove it from our lives to be closer to Him. We know through Scripture that the Will was there in the beginning. And our Father taught us his Will throughout time. We also know that the Will of God will be just as valid in the future as it was on Mount Sinai. So why in our arrogance do we seek to change the Will of God and say it isn’t valid now?
The council in Jerusalem acknowledged the foundation of the Law (Torah) when James stated that Moses was preached and read in the synagogues on every Sabbath (Act 15:19 Therefore my judgment is that we should not trouble those of the Gentiles who turn to God, Act 15:20 but should write to them to abstain from the things polluted by idols, and from sexual immorality, and from what has been strangled, and from blood. Act 15:21 For from ancient generations Moses has had in every city those who proclaim him, for he is read every Sabbath in the synagogues." ) It is stated here that the new converts first had to be taught to refrain from the things that will break a covenant relationship with God. And immediately continues by stating that the Law of Moses (Torah, Law, Will of God) is taught every Sabbath in the synagogues. James believed that gentile followers of the Master would naturally become imitators of Messiah as they heard and observed the Torah (Law, Will of God) week after week. It was a process of growth. It wasn’t meant to happen over night. And now 2,000 years later it is the mission of many including this ministry to recover the truth found in the Torah (Law, Will of God) to become imitators of Yeshua our Messiah as well. To get back to the roots of our faith, and become true disciples of Yeshua our Messiah.
As always I hope, this article has helped us all in some way to gain a closer walk with our Messiah. I pray that as we go forth to put these ideas to the test, in Scripture, that we are given eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to change for the Glory of Yeshua our Messiah.
We know that in the past the commandments were there and valid. I do not think that many people will dispute this fact. But many believe that sometime after Yeshua’s death and resurrection they changed. It was no longer about the Will of God but, doing whatever we want as long as we believe, love Him, and others. But is this really the case? If it is, wouldn’t it stand to reason that if the commandments were changed, fulfilled, or done away with, that this is how it will be from now on? Will Yeshua have the same commandments during his reign when he returns? Lets look to scripture and see.
Isa 2:2 It shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be lifted up above the hills; and all the nations shall flow to it,
Isa 2:3 and many peoples shall come, and say: Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths. For out of Zion shall go the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.
Isa 2:4 He shall judge between the nations, and shall decide disputes for many peoples; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.
Here in this very prophecy of our Lords return, and his reign. (Isa 2:3 and many peoples shall come, and say: Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths. For out of Zion shall go the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.) So what is this Law being spoken of here. Some simply think it will be the command of the King. And while they are right they should know that these will not be new commands. They are the same that we have had from the beginning. The Law here is an English translation of the Hebrew word “Torah.” Don’t take my word for it, check for yourselves. So why would our Messiah do away with the Law if it is prophesied that he will teach us His ways, so we can walk in His paths “the Torah,” and after His second coming and during His Millennial reign. Also, it may be good to point out here that the Law going forth will not just be his voice or speaking, as I have heard and taught it myself in the past. For the Scripture also states, that along with the Law, the Word will also go forth.
We know that the Law as many call it, was valid in the Past, we know that the Law will be valid in the future, so why do we think that it isn’t valid now? How many of us have really pondered this question? I know I never did. I was happy in my knowledge that the Law (Will of God, Torah, Pentateuch) was not meant for me, and was either fulfilled or done away with. And I never wanted to see the truth of the matter. I never sought the truth as it pertained to the Law. Quite simply because I didn’t want the true Will of God in my life. I liked the idea that I wasn’t really held accountable for my sins. I liked not having to worship God in His way. I liked the illusion that I had control over my life, I was terribly wrong. And to any out there that I taught these ideas too in the past that read this article, all I can do is apologize for my mistakes. I have been asked: “Why would you want to follow the Law when we can simply live under grace?” And the answer is simple, because that is what my God asks of me. It isn’t about me or what I want! And, I also point out that they should take a better look at how grace is defined in Scripture. We have to be willing to put aside our own pride, and stop pondering these questions on our own. The fact of the matter is we have instruction to lead us in Gods way, and we have the Holy Spirit to guide us through these very Scriptures.
So many would try and do away with the Will of God in their lives. They would rather listen to flawed men than seek Divine Truth. I have been given so many excuses in my life, as to why we do not need the Will of God. It is scary just how easy it is to justify in our hearts, not following the Will of God. And to say that we no longer need the Law is doing this very thing. It is through the Law (Torah) that we know God. It is through the Law (Torah) that we know sin. And without it we cannot know either. We are ships crashing in a storm being tossed from one side to the other. We must seek shelter in the storm, and the only real shelter to be found is in the Word of God.
Now lets look at the past. Because it is the belief held by many that the Will of God changed from the beginning, to mount Sinai. So why couldn’t his will change again? But did the Will of God ever change? Did even Abraham already have the Law and the Commandments, or was the Law a new invention at mount Sinai? Once again to find our answer before we start speculating on our own, lets look to Scripture.
Gen 26:4 I will multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven and will give to your offspring all these lands. And in your offspring all the nations of the earth shall be blessed,
Gen 26:5 because Abraham obeyed my voice and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws."
Here we see that according to our Scripture Abraham did in fact have the Will of God. (Gen 26:5 because Abraham obeyed my voice and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws." ). Were they in the complete form as given on Mount Sinai? That we do not know, but we know that His Will didn’t change. We know that there were charges, commandments, statues, and Laws given to him. So we know the Law (Torah, God’s Will) predates mount Sinai. We also know that not even sacrifice was only given to us by God on Mount Sinai. (Gen 4:3 In the course of time Cain brought to the LORD an offering of the fruit of the ground,
Gen 4:4 and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and his offering,)
Now begs the question who taught Cain and able to sacrifice to God? Who taught Abraham what was right in the sight of God? Who taught the Israelites how to worship God? Who taught the world Love through our Messiah Yeshua? In all cases it is God, the Father, the creator of all creation, the God of Abraham, Jacob, and Isaac, The God of Israel. It may also be helpful to remember, to put all things in their proper perspective. The Law was given at the same time as the history of the world was given. God gave Moses the History that is the Torah (first five books, Pentateuch), and along with this History he gave us his Will, through His Law. Why do we intend to change our Gods Will, when He is the one who gives it to us? That is the way it was in the beginning, now, and in the future. We must let our own natures be silenced and follow God, His way, not our own. This has been said before and it will be said again. GOD does not change, not his mind, not His Will, not His Plans. They have been the same from the beginning and they will continue for ever. We must stop trying to change our God and accept that we are the ones in need of change. God does not change to fit us. We change to follow Him.
Now comes the idea that all traditions are good and we must simply follow them. So we need to ask ourselves. Can we be corrupted or spoiled by mans philosophy, tradition, and principles of the world?
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
We must beware of any deceit or tradition that teaches us to walk in any way that is contrary to how our Master walked. Some would even accuse me of bringing some new deceitful philosophy with these articles. And in response to these accusations, all I ask is that you put these ideas to the test of Scripture. Not one passage taken out of context, not one book, but the whole of Scripture. Look to how our Messiah walked. Did our Messiah do away with any of God’s Will (Torah)? Of course not. When presented with a challenge, or problem, where did our Messiah get his answers? They came from the Torah, don’t take my word for it look for yourself. Really look at how our Messiah walked, do a study of true discipleship. Step away from vain teachings of deceit, and false traditions of man to justify sin. And look to God for your answers. Go to Scripture in prayer! Put all things to the test of Scripture. Not just these writings, but all writings of men. I do not claim to have a patent on truth. As a matter of fact I am just as wrong on many things as anyone else. Never take, any mans word for anything, without putting it to the test in Scripture, and through prayer. We must guard our hearts. There are false traditions of men in this world. Just because one comes claiming to be a man of God be weary for he may be a wolf in sheep clothing. If anyone brings a gospel that is not congruent with scripture, turn and flee from it. When a man tells you that we are to be rich with worldly possession because that is what is needed to be happy flee from it. If one brings a gospel that teaches you to walk in any way outside of the example set for us by our Messiah flee from it. Take the time to read and see how our Messiah truly walked on this earth, and when we go forth in study of Scripture we must keep this in mind for a true prospective, and context. The idea that our Messiah only walked in Gods Law (Torah, God's Will) before his crucifiction, simple does not hold water when put under the scrutiny of Scripture. The Law wasnt done away with after the resurrection. In Acts 1:1-4, Yeshua taught His Apostles about the Kingdom of God and not one place in Acts do the Apostles, including Paul, say the Law is done away with. Just as we have no right to change our God or His Will, we have no right to change our Messiah.
In conclusion The Law (Torah) has been with us since we were created. God instructs His people in His ways. It was this way for Adam, Abraham, Moses, and us today. It hasn’t changed. There is no indication in Scripture to point that this has not ever been the case. The Law (Torah, Will of God) does not change. We are the ones that change. We are to become closer in relationship with our God. That is the purpose of the Law (Torah, Will of God) in our lives. So we can learn His teachings, His way. So we can walk in a covenant relationship once again. So we can come in the presence of our God without being destroyed. It shows us sin so we can remove it from our lives to be closer to Him. We know through Scripture that the Will was there in the beginning. And our Father taught us his Will throughout time. We also know that the Will of God will be just as valid in the future as it was on Mount Sinai. So why in our arrogance do we seek to change the Will of God and say it isn’t valid now?
The council in Jerusalem acknowledged the foundation of the Law (Torah) when James stated that Moses was preached and read in the synagogues on every Sabbath (Act 15:19 Therefore my judgment is that we should not trouble those of the Gentiles who turn to God, Act 15:20 but should write to them to abstain from the things polluted by idols, and from sexual immorality, and from what has been strangled, and from blood. Act 15:21 For from ancient generations Moses has had in every city those who proclaim him, for he is read every Sabbath in the synagogues." ) It is stated here that the new converts first had to be taught to refrain from the things that will break a covenant relationship with God. And immediately continues by stating that the Law of Moses (Torah, Law, Will of God) is taught every Sabbath in the synagogues. James believed that gentile followers of the Master would naturally become imitators of Messiah as they heard and observed the Torah (Law, Will of God) week after week. It was a process of growth. It wasn’t meant to happen over night. And now 2,000 years later it is the mission of many including this ministry to recover the truth found in the Torah (Law, Will of God) to become imitators of Yeshua our Messiah as well. To get back to the roots of our faith, and become true disciples of Yeshua our Messiah.
As always I hope, this article has helped us all in some way to gain a closer walk with our Messiah. I pray that as we go forth to put these ideas to the test, in Scripture, that we are given eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to change for the Glory of Yeshua our Messiah.
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