PARSHA COMMENTARY
BLESS THE LAND
Parsha Commentary Study
Toldot "Generations"
Bless the Land
Written by Hutch Church
November, 2009
Torah: Genesis 25:19-28:8
Haftorah: Malachi 1:1-2:7
Sugg. N.T.: Romans 9:6-16
Gospels/Acts: 13 and 14
Welcome: "...to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad [the whole nation of Israel], greeting" (James 1:1).
This lesson plan will help Believers, through prayer, study, and worship exercises to return to and mature in the kingdom. power, and glory of the Elohim of Israel. Each individual lesson is designed to help students--who truly desire to be instructed/led directly by the Holy Spirit in the parsha reading--to hear, discern, and respond appropriately to His voice/word in whatever form it may take.
We are alive in a time when the Saints must develop their spiritual senses to know the voice/word of the Almighty personally, become complete in the knowledge and experience of the Torah (Word) and Spirit, and thereby participate more effectually in the fulfillment of end-time renewal and restoration prophecies. Hence, our education emphasis at Bless the Land Ministry is learning from the Word and from the Spirit, for all Israel. Therefore, you will find in the one-year parsha commentary course the continual accent on the importance of hearing the voice of the Spirit and learning to be led by His Spirit. "For all who are being led [regularly, consistently] by the Spirit of God, these are the [mature] sons of God" (Rom. 8:14).
Stay Engaged: "...to those who by perseverance in doing good..." (Rom. 2:7).
Persevere in your journey toward greater revelation from the Torah/Word of Elohim, personal spiritual growth, and greater intimacy with Yeshua, our Husband. You will be blessed for your effort. "...He is a Rewarder of them that diligently seek Him" (Heb. 11:6). Remember, the readers' study portions are (1) the heart of the commentary, (2) the intended, primary exercise for hearing the voice/word of Elohim, and thus, (3) the means of receiving personal instruction by the Spirit of Truth concerning the students' Israelite birthright, identity, heritage, destiny, and calling. The heart of the commentary, which are the parsha Scriptures and the eight questions, always follow the "Knowing His Voice" section.
Introduction to Toldot "Generations"
Last Week: "And Abraham gave all that he had to Isaac" (Gen. 25:5).
In last week's Torah reading we read that Sarah died at 127 years old. Later, Abraham passed away at 175. He had many descendents but was careful to distinguish the line of divine blessing with Isaac. Abraham's life was characterized by faith and fellowship with YHVH. Isaac and Ishmael, though living separately, gathered at his gravesite one last time. Ishmael was blessed, but Isaac was the true heir of Abraham, and was handed the covenant blessing to carry forward.
This Week: "And these are the generations of Isaac, Abraham's son; Abraham begat Isaac: And Isaac was forty years old when he took Rebekah to wife..." (Gen. 25:19-20).
Toldot means "generations" or "offspring". The word refers to that which a person generates or produces. Thus, the "toldot" of Isaac [Yitzchak] and Rebekah [Rivka] were Esau [Esav] and Jacob [Yaakov], the subjects of this parsha.
In Toldot, the Genesis account progresses from focusing on the pilgrimage and character development of Abraham and Sarah to the purposes of YHVH for the growing family (generations) with whom He has covenanted. The story commences with Isaac, who was born in Canaan and never set his foot outside the land of promise, neither did he have an idolatrous past, as did his forefathers in Ur. Isaac was married to Rebekah three years after his mother, Sarah, died. He was forty. He became disappointed after a while because his wife bore him no children, so he entered into fervent intercession. "Isaac entreated for his wife." The Almighty One responded, as He is committed to do, to the fervent effectual prayer of a righteous man. His supernatural help is always poised, ready to prevail in the place of human infirmity and weakness. Rebekah became pregnant. She had two sons, Esau and Jacob.
Isaac is featured only in this parsha prominently, unlike Abraham and Jacob who are figured prominently in six. This is possibly because Isaac was a simple man and, it seems, was more passive than his father. He involved himself in no new family industries/enterprises, fought no great battles, was non-political, had no extra wives, took no concubines, and was generally at peace with his neighbors. He was, however, pro-active in his well digging activities. Aggressive Philistines confiscated his first wells, in a covert but clumsy and inept, devil-inspired attempt to hinder him, and drive him from Canaan. But Isaac persisted, and the last well he dug remained
in his control. Isaac's bothersome neighbors finally left him alone, and abandoned his pasture land to stew in their jealousy over his divinely orchestrated prosperity.
We observe in Scriptures that frail and sinful man has been, from the beginning, capable of interfering with the work of YHVH, by throwing up hindrances and creating roadblocks to its success. These works are presumptuous, but permitted, because their consequence can be positive. The result of such difficulties can include: (1) rekindled hope that YHVH will take up the cause Himself, and (2) increased, fervent prayer, because the nature of life's circumstances and events profoundly affect our personal lives. In any event, it is the will of YHVH to test, develop, transform, and strengthen His people with trials, bothersome hindrances, and struggles of different sorts, and then, at the most favorable time, to bring them through to victory. Isaac's neighboring herdsmen worked against him, just as the heathen kings fought with Abraham, but both pilgrims learned the way to victory in all occasions was trust and perseverance.
Today, Elohim calls for repentance, and Ephraim, who was sown into the nations (Hos. 1:4) is hearing and responding by forsaking unholy mixture in true religion and returning to the faith and identity of his fore-fathers. "...return O faithless Israel, declares the Lord...only acknowledge your iniquity...and I will bring you to Zion" (Jer. 3:11-14). Believers who are returning to Abba's house will certainly face obstacles as did Abraham and Isaac in their pilgrimages. Repentant Ephraimites will need to give up some old habits and associations, then trust YHVH and persevere in the journey home. People, even well-meaning ones, can become hindrances in a Believer's transition. Add to that the usual challenges of all past restoration movements, to which the Hebrew roots renewal is no stranger, that can confuse, hinder and discourage people. Nevertheless, they all must be dealt with and overcome also. The road back to Zion is inspiring, energizing, exciting, but demanding and replete with various hindrances. Again we stress, our formula for success--persevere and trust. To repent-teshuvah-means to turn, not just from sin and toward good behavior, but to turn completely around [no compromise] and go all the way back to the beginning. That's revival.
Of the three patriarchs, Isaac is the only one who did not undergo a name change. Hence it appears that Elohim was not displeased with Isaac, and thus required no correction or reformation of him. [We will remark on the "stolen blessing" later in the parsha.]
Accounts of Esau and Jacob, the birthright and blessing, and Jacob's departure for Laban's home round out the Torah section.
Knowing the Holy Spirit/Ruach ha Kodesh
"And Isaac entreated the Lord for his wife, because she was barren; and the Lord was entreated of him, and Rebekah his wife conceived" (Genesis 25:21).
The continued barrenness of Rebekah reminds us of two things: (1) that "children are the heritage of the Lord" (Ps. 77:3), and (2) that the seed, or children of the promise/covenant are not just the result of nature but of the grace and gifting of the Almighty One. You and I have been known by YHVH from eternity, and our times and seasons, and are in His hand.
Isaac joins in prayer with his wife, coming up beside her and joining in her supplications. They had witnessed the power and faithfulness of YHVH with Abraham and Sarah, and being therein hopeful, united to seek His face. The principle here applies to us: two sticks are joined together to become one in the Master's hand, and from that mutual agreement and co-joining the fruit of life springs forth. Yeshua affirmed, "That if two of you shall agree on earth...ask...it shall be done for them..." (Mt. 18:19). [Also see: Ezekiel 37: 15-23.] Isaac and Rebekah turned to their Source, the Omnipotent One of Israel. "...With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Mt. 19:26). Both believed, remembering that at one time Sarah had also been in their place, "...and herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of child when she was past age, because she judged Him faithful, who had promised" (Heb. 11:11). The miracle brought them both closer to the Almighty, and one another.
Yeshua wanted His disciples to live with faith, power, and close fellowship, and sent the Holy Spirit to accomplish in the Saints the divine work of intimacy and trust in Yeshua. The Holy Spirit exalts and magnifies Messiah, and empowers us to know Him without reserve, believe Him, obey Him, follow Him, witness of Him, and grow in His likeness [which is sanctification/life-long process]. To that end He said, "Ye shall receive power [for all this wonderful work] , after that the Holy Spirit has come upon you" (Acts 1:8). This promise is written for us. The power we are promised and that we all need for effectual ministry--participation in the fulfillment of Scripture in the last days--has been placed into us; "...the Spirit of truth...He abides with you and shall be in you" (Jn. 14:17). Amazing. It is our joy and duty to receive this promise of the Spirit and His empowerment, and if necessary pray and wait for it just as Sarah, Rebekah, or the 120 disciples did in Jerusalem. He wants us to know Him by Scripture and, more intimately, by experiencing the fulfillment of His promises to us!
Receiving the Spirit is not an option, it is a duty. Our nation's condition demands that the Body of Messiah get an infilling of the power of the Spirit, because only then can we can say like Paul, "...and my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power..." (1 Cor. 2:4). Peter and John, after they were rebuked by the Jews for preaching Messiah in the power of the Spirit, and being involved in a miraculous healing, returned to their companions. They had seen from experience the vital need for incorporating both the Word and the ministry of the Spirit in service, for having "the Spirit of the Lord" energizing Believers for proclaiming "release for the captives", and in setting "free those who are oppressed". Accordingly, Peter said in Acts 4:30-31, "And now Lord, take note of their threats, and grant that your bond-servants may speak your word with all confidence, while you extend your hand to heal, and signs and wonders [don't play these down] take place through the name of your holy servant Jesus."
Here's the point: It's time to begin to really know the Holy Spirit, not just about Him. He is Elohim, divine, alive, personal. He comes to reveal and exalt Yeshua, illuminate the Scriptures, teach all [not some] things, and bring truth to remembrance and understanding. The Holy Spirit distributes gifts to people, and power for life and ministry. He is not a thing, or an it, or a force, or some mystic energy, or breeze, or anything less than deity. Thus, He should be regarded with respect and reverence. When we are regenerated/born again He actually comes to indwell us, to live in us! "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own" (1 Cor. 6:19).
Let's take a moment therefore and mention some of the Spirit's personal qualities. (1) The Holy Spirit has intelligence/intellect. "But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things , yea the deep things of God" (1 Cor. 2:10). (2) The Holy Spirit has knowledge, and teaches. "Even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God" (1 Cor. 2:11). (3) The Holy Spirit has emotions. "And grieve [lupeo-to make sad or sorrowful, heavy of heart] not the Holy Spirit of God, where by ye are sealed unto the day of redemption" (Eph. 4:30). (4) The Holy Spirit has His own will and makes decisions. "Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia [pronounced froog-ee'-ah] and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia" (Acts 16:6). (5) The Holy Spirit loves. "Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in your prayers to God for me" (Rom. 15:30. See also: Rom. 5:5; Gal.5:22). (6) The Holy Spirit has a voice and speaks. "...the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for
Me Barnabas and Saul.." (Acts 13: 2). Also, "This is what the Spirit says..." (Acts 21:11). (7) The Holy Spirit has wisdom and leads. ""For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God" (Rom. 8:14). (8) The Spirit has a will. "...they were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia...the Spirit did not permit them" (Acts 16:6-7).
"...but you know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you" (John 14:17). The Holy Spirit/Ruach ha Kodesh is our supernatural Helper sent to live in us and empower us to be victorious.
Next week: Nine things the Holy Spirit does.
Hearing His Voice/Being Led by the Spirit
"So she went to inquire of YHVH. YHVH said to her, two nations are in your womb, and two peoples will be separated from your body..." (Genesis 25:22-23).
Rebekah inquires of the Lord concerning her unborn children who struggle in her womb. She may have gone through Shem (Melchisedek), or a prophet (one who heard from YHVH as did Abraham and Isaac), or she may have sought the Almighty Himself for revelation and insight. See: Psalm 34:5. In any case, YHVH responded with His word, as He has promised us He will do for the sincere seeker. "Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble; He saved them out of their distresses. He sent His word and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions" (Ps. 107:19-20). Also: Jeremiah 29:13.
Rebekah received the answer to her query. She was bold, impatient, yet reverent and faith-filled. YHVH spoke to her, possibly in the form of a dream. "Two nations are in your womb; And two peoples will be separated from your body..." (Gen. 25:23). The prophetic answer helped
prepare her for the future.
Today, becoming a new generation (toldot) of Believers who is mature and led by the Spirit involves: (1) listening to the Holy Spirit speaking into our regenerated human spirit [Spirit to spirit] which He indwells, by word or impression, and (2) training/tuning our souls [exercising our senses]--which we will regard as our intellect, emotions, intuition, and will--to discern and properly interpret the sound, word, impression, vision, dream, leading of the Spirit...and then appropriately respond.
The Holy Spirit is our Comforter, Teacher, and Helper. His voice gives life and vitality to the hearers, helps us also prepare for the future, and enables us to bear His fruit and gifts. He can communicate with us, and direct or inform us, through human counsel, circumstances, past experiences, and things of the natural realm. But the emphasis in our study is hearing, discerning, and responding to His divine supernatural voice coming directly from the Spirit as He ministers/works within us. Included among the forms His voice/word/communication may take are these: (1) His actual voice. 1 Sam. 3:2-11; 1 Kings 19:12. (2) Divinely illuminated Scripture. 2 Tim. 3:16. (3) His inner witness. Rom. 2:15, 8:16, 1 John 5:8. (4) Inspiration and revelation gifts. 1 Cor. 12:1-11. (5) Spirit-birthed and sustained ideas, thoughts, enduring but gentle impressions, and desires. Dan. 2:29, 4:5; Mic. 5:4; Prov. 12:5; Ps. 37:4. (6) Visions, inner or open. Joel 2:28. (7) Dreams. Gen. 42:9; Dan. 1:17; Joel 2:28. [See also; John 14, 15, and 16]
He will speak to/within you as you read and wait upon Him. Pray for discernment. He may birth within your spirit an idea from the Mind of YHVH, open your understanding and share a revelation, or give you a vision or dream. The important thing about the Spirit's voice [whatever the mode] and His inward leading is that they are divine, supernatural, usually spontaneous, inspiring, internally processed, and totally individualized.
"In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight" (Prov. 3:6).
Next week: Forms of His Word, the still small voice, and Elijah in the cave.
Weekly Parsha Commentary Study: Toldot "Generations"
"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth' (2Tim. 2:15).
The word "study" in this verse written by Timothy carries the sense of earnest desire, effort, promptness. "Rightly dividing the word of truth" requires work and diligence, qualities not always standing out among the saints. But the hour we are in requires a new breed of Believer, a hybrid with the Word and Spirit working together for inspired and anointed swordsmanship. The Word of Truth must be handled with skill and accuracy in our holy warfare, for His Book, which is His weapon for us, is the Word we should learn to "divide", and skillfully handle! We should be able to wield our weapon correctly, and this demands study and strength, the fullest empowerment of the Spirit and faith available in this day.
"But the comforter, which is the Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you" (John 14:26).
Study is work. Study is worship. Study is worth it.
Read the parsha listings and expect to hear from your Elohim. Your participation in this study program is a holy appointment, and a practical means of assistance which will help you ascend (make aliyah) to higher levels of fellowship/discipleship with Yeshua, in both Word and Spirit. For the two sticks of Ezekiel 37, the houses of Judah and Ephraim, to be joined into the one stick in the Master's hand, the (1) "stick of Hebraic restoration" and (2) the "stick of the fullness of the Spirit" must be joined into one "stick of Word and Power" in the Believers' hand. In this basic, current restoration activity we can all readily cooperate in advancing the restoration of the Kingdom of Israel/Tabernacle of David.
Remember, as you read the texts, make room for/give time to the Holy Spirit to move upon you.
Genesis 25:19-28:9.Torah:Rebekah's pregnancy/Esau and Jacob/Esau sell his birthright/Isaac settles in the Land/Disputes over wells/YHVH confirms covenant with Isaac/Esau marries/Jacob obtains blessing from Isaac/Esau's hatred for Jacob/Isaac confers Abraham's blessing on Jacob/Jacob flees to Laban/Esau marries an Ishmaelite.
Malachi 1:1-2:7. Haftorah: Malachi rebukes Judah. There is no prosperity. Read what is said about YHVH's love for Judah/Israel., and honoring fathers and mothers, and all godly authority.
Romans 9:6-13. Sugg. N.T.: Read about who Israel is, according to the Apostle Paul, as he writes under the guidance of the Spirit. Are you among redeemed Israel? Why?
Matthew 13 and 14. Gospels: Read the chapters and study the parables. Expect Him to open your understanding. Yeshua is the Lamb of Elohim, but will return soon as the Lion of the tribe of Judah, and He will put all Israel's enemies under our feet.
"Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brethren of mine, even to the least of them, you did it to Me" (Mt. 25:40).
Questions
1. In your opinion, what is the prominent teaching or theme of the Torah reading?
2. What is the supporting/complimentary truth found in the Haftorah?
3. What is the corresponding truth or idea found in the New Testament reading?
4. Summarize the common teaching/central idea of the entire parsha, as you see.
5. Relate the entire parsha's main idea/theme with the Gospel reading. How does Yeshua demonstrate your central truth?
6. What does this week's parsha teach you/say to you about your Israelite: a. identity, b. birthright, c. heritage, d. destiny, e. responsibility (duty)?
7. Did the Spirit of Truth [John 14:15-18] anoint you and teach you directly this week? How?
8. Did you experience intimacy/closeness with Yeshua this week in study? Use your notebook.
Israel
"And there was famine in the Land...and the Lord appeared unto him [Isaac], and said, Go not down into Egypt...sojourn in this Land and I will bless thee...Now Isaac sowed in that land and reaped in the same year a hundred fold, and the Lord blessed him [as He had promised]..." (Gen. 26: 1-3, 12-13).
Abraham's family was nomadic, but Isaac still had to be settled for periods of time in various parts of the Land for the welfare of his flocks and herds. Isaac increased as a herdsman and farmer as he worked hard in Canaan. Unbothered by a severe drought, he sowed his dry fields in faith, and he reaped a hundred fold return! It has been correctly said that the harvest of the planter depends more on the favor and goodness of YHVH than in the excellence of the seed and skill of the ploughman.
"I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth anything, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase" (1 Cor 3:6-7).
The people who reverence (as did Isaac) YHVH have assurance that He will hear their cry in the time of need, and come and save them, and not just for their sakes only, but for the land on which they live. When the inhabitants are blessed and praise Him, so are their fields, and "then shall the earth yield her increase" (Ps. 67:6).
Psalm 85:9 emphasizes the point. "Surely His salvation is nigh them that fear[obey] Him, that [His] glory [goodness] may dwell in the land."
The salvation of all Israel and His glory magnified upon the land were related. The evidence of His glory resting on the Land was manifested in two ways. First, there was physical restoration, prosperity, morality, and worship of YHVH in the Land. And secondly, there was the manifestation of the true Shechinah--the tangible, weighty, glorious presence of Elohim of Israel in the Temple. "...blessed [happy, and to be envied] are you; for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you..." (1 Peter 4:14).
He will come, revive, and restore all them that return to Him. Take a moment. By faith, see His glory rest upon your home, labor, and sowing as you return to your Hebrew/Israelite/Jewish roots and heritage.
Though Elohim has promised Israel prosperity and strength through the Abrahamic covenant, since its inception modern Israel has not enjoyed enduring peace. Enemies in the Land have remained as briars and thorns among the Jews. The threat of war, along with the constant threat/presence of terrorist activity in its cities and towns, require that Israel have a prepared, ready military force with which to defend itself. With that in mind, Israel has a compulsory army service. Young men and women are obligated to begin their military service at the age of 18.
Adulthood comes early in the Land.
The dream of Israel is to live in peace with its neighbors. This hope may be awhile in taking form, but it will come to pass. The advent of real, lasting peace coincides with the return of Messiah Yeshua and the inauguration of the His Millennium reign and the restoration of the Tabernacle of David.
Reconciliation between Jewish and non-Jewish (Ephraimite) Believers is an end-time expectation. It is beginning to happen, and this portends that His appearing draws nigh. Israel is YHVH's "one sheep-fold" for one, re-gathered, restored generation (toldot) in Messiah. [Prophetic references: Scattered-Hosea 1:6; Zech 10:9; Gen. 48:19; Selected-Amos 9:9-11; Gathered-Zech. 10:6-8; Micah 2:12; Ez. 34:11; Jn. 10:10.]
"And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd" (John 10:16).
The Latter Days
"Therefore God give thee the dew of heaven, and the fatness of the earth, and plenty of corn and wine: Let people serve thee, and nations bow down to thee; be lord over thy brethren, and let thy mother's sons bow down to thee: cursed is everyone that curseth thee, and blessed is every one that blesseth thee" (Genesis 27:28-29).
Esau had gone hunting for venison to feed his father in preparation for receiving the paternal blessing of the firstborn. Rebekah took advantage of his absence to prepare a similar goat stew. Then she convinced Jacob to masquerade as Esau, and present Isaac with the domestic meal, which he did. Isaac was surprised that the meal was prepared so soon, and questioned Jacob, "...so quickly, my son...?
Jacob may have given himself away, prior to actually receiving the coveted paternal blessing, when he answered his father Isaac, "YHVH your Elohim sent me good speed." It is very likely that the worldly Esau did not speak in that refined, spiritual fashion. But Isaac was nobody's fool. He knew the word Rebekah had received from Elohim, and what it foretold, "...two nations are in thy womb...two manner of people...one shall be stronger..the elder shall serve the younger." He also understood the natures of his sons, and thus who was really speaking to him. And with his childhood memories of Ishmael always alive in his mind, Isaac had probably never intended to pass the precious spiritual legacy--the promise of the holy land as an eternal possession, a great multitude of descendants, prosperity, dominion over enemies, seed that would bless the nations--to uncaring, un-appreciative, carnal, Esau. Jacob ended up with the blessing of the first-born. After returning, discovering the ploy, and loudly protesting, Esau received a lesser blessing with which he was not pleased. Evidently, there were two different but appropriate blessings rising in the bosom of the patriarch, a spiritual one for Jacob, and a worldly one for Esau, to which he gave birth and life by speaking them out.
The next chapter reinforces the likelihood of Isaac's discernment of the eventual ascendency of his younger son. As Jacob departed for Paddan-aram, Isaac without hesitancy pronounced yet another (double, completed) blessing upon him, "May He also give you the blessing of Abraham, to you and to your descendants, that you may possess the land of your sojourning, which God gave to Abraham" (Gen. 28:4).
Why did Jacob prevail in history? The person, family, nation that is spiritual, and thus leavened with divine wisdom and favor will always master physical and worldly reality. What is more, the people who understand and adhere to their prophetic destiny--one that is planned, declared and thus secured by YHVH Himself--are blessed. The man with YHVH is much distinguished from the man without YHVH. As we read on in Genesis we observe Jacob (who was motivated/sustained by the promises of Abraham and Isaac), visited from heaven, receiving confirmation of the Abrahamic covenant, and experiencing spiritual transformation, and becoming Israel. Esau, who was inattentive to the importance/significance of the prophetic picture, followed his own devices, and remained Esau.
The importance of understanding prophecy is that it: (1) warns us of judgment, (2) gives direction by enabling us to recognize the remnant's proclaimed end-times destiny, (3) enables us to position ourselves in the purpose, power, and place of the flow of His restorative strength, and thereby (4) encourages us to participate in a meaningful way in the fulfillment of the restoration of all Israel, and (5) stirs us to repent, and prepare for Messiah's coming. [Jer. 16: 14-15; 30:7; Mt. 24:21; Isa. 11:11-16.] Going further, understanding the basics of latter day prophecy: (6) helps protect Believers from deception. (Rev. 1:1-3; 3:3) (7) urges watchfulness. (Mt. 24:36-44) (8) causes attentiveness and obedience to the Word and the Spirit. (Mt. 25:1-13) (9) creates within the Believer a sense of urgency that "the kingdom of God is at hand" (Mk:1:14-15), and therefore motivates renewed interest in putting our houses [Judah and Ephraim] in order. (10) inspires confidence and courage in pursuing fulfillment of restoration Scriptures. "So then, faith comes from hearing and hearing from the Word of God" (Rom. 10:17). (11) gives cheer for our pilgrimage to Zion. "...I go to prepare a place for you" (John 14:2). (12) fortifies determination. "...forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before [prophetic promises and revealed destiny], I press toward the mark..." (Phil. 3:13-14).
Prophecy provides us with knowledge of our destiny and divine inspiration with which to prepare and pursue it. The prophetic word for the Ecclesia today forecasts the restoration of the Tabernacle of David. It is the pathway to YHVH's glory, and it is to this pathway latter-days Believers are called.
Jacob's journey to Padan-aram is an example. His journey was a prophetic pathway that possessed certain life fulfilling, positive characteristics, and so will ours. The road Jacob embarked upon was:
A pathway of purpose: Jacob's circumstances had deteriorated quickly and he was in need of advancing to place where he could recover and mature toward his potential and destiny. Prophecy says, "...this is the way, walk ye in it..." (Isa. 30:21).
A pathway of duty: A good son obeys his father and mother. "...hears the instruction of his father and forsakes not the law of his mother" (Prov. 1:8). Returning Israelites have responsibilities to their Israelite family and land of origin.
A pathway of blessing: Jacob received two powerful, prophetic benedictions pronounced over him, instilling direction and confidence for his arduous journey. "...for blessed are they that keep My ways" (Prov. 8:32).
A pathway of promise: When Jacob left his parents in Beersheba he took with him on his long journey the great and precious promises of a blessed seed, a multitude of descendants, and an inheritance that he and his family would acquire in the course of time. Believers also have promises that encourage us in our pathway through life, including 1 Peter 1:4 which says, "Blessed be the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved for you in heaven."
A pathway of hope: Jacob was, no doubt, downcast and dispirited when he bid goodbye to his mother and father, and left home. Remember, he was a man of the tent, not the outdoors, and was accustomed to the constant company, pampering and protection of his parents. Yet, he was sustained by the hope of the prophetic benedictions, the hope of an affectionate wife and children of the promise. With hope, Jacob went forward "...to lay hold upon the hope set before us: which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast..." (Heb. 6:18-19).
So we ask, what motivates and guides modern Ephraim on the pathway of repentance and return to his Hebraic life and ministry? It is a revelatory understanding/knowledge that the Spirit gives through prophesy that reveals that this is: (1) the hour of recovery of their relationship with YHVH. " Afterward shall the children of Israel return, and seek YHVH their Elohim, and David their king; and shall fear the Lord and His goodness in the latter days" (Hos. 3:5), and (2) the hour of restoration of their heritage. "In those days the house of Judah shall walk with the house of Israel, and they shall come together out of the land of the north to the land that I have given for an inheritance unto your fathers" (Jer. 3:18)
What is it then that connects true prosperity and meaning to life? It is understanding and incorporating the prophetic word into one's existence. The man who distains and scorns his prophetic opportunity will miss his destiny and highest blessing.
Finally, prophecy is important because it reveals the Elohim of Israel. "Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, my counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure" (Isa. 46:9-10).
With this in mind, what should we do? First: Be watchful and pray! [Intercede for America and Israel.]"Take ye heed, watch and pray..." (Mk 13:33). Next: Be diligent and grow up! [Walk in the Spirit and Truth.]"...giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity" (2 Peter 1:5-9). Then: Become educated and discerning! [Know your identity and heritage.] "Study..." (2 Tim. 2:15). And: Be filled and empowered! [Be His prepared witness and ambassador.] "But you shall receive power after that the Holy Spirit has come upon you: and you shall be witnesses..." (Acts:1:8).
In a nutshell: The importance of understanding prophecy is that it informs you, the new generation of awakening Israelites, about (1) who you are, (2) where you are, (3) why you are where you are, and then (4) points to where you should be going, which is on the blessed pathway toward "the restoration of all things, which God spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began" (Acts 3:21).
Next week: Prophetic signs of the times.
Bless the Land
1. Pray for Israel, and America.
The United States does not accept continued Israeli settlement construction in the West Bank. Top state department officials say Jerusalem's commitment to restrain settlement activity is not enough.
Pray for Judah/Israel to be allowed to occupy and settle all her land, and to be free from alien encroachments.
CDC estimates that there are 34 million people in the United States that have H1N1 flu. Pray for protection against plagues in our land.
2. Sing a New Song [Song of the Lord] over Israel. Teaching:
"And God almighty bless thee, and make thee fruitful, and multiply thee, that thou mayest be a multitude of people; And give thee the blessing of Abraham, to thee, and to thy seed with thee...and Isaac sent away Jacob..." (Genesis 28:3-5)
Jacob had participated with his mother in a crafty scheme to beguile Isaac and thereby assure for Jacob, in the place of Esau, the reception of the first-born's blessing. The discovery of the successful plot was met with consternation. But soon, Jacob was forgiven by his father, blessed again, and sent to his relatives for safety. Fresh mercy and favor were extended and revived the undeserving, distraught Jacob.
New mercies, revelation and outpourings of grace refresh and recharge Israel to go forward, and are always accompanied and heralded by new joy and new songs, both spontaneous and (then) written. The thoughts expressed in the new song/song of the Lord are fresh declarations of His mercy and faithfulness. An example follows:
"O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord all the earth. Sing unto the Lord. Bless His Name. Declare His glory among the heathen, His wonders among the people; for the Lord is great and greatly to be praised" (Psalm 96:1-3). According to commentators this joyful Psalm belongs to a group of songs written after Judah's seventy year captivity. It is an example of an inspired new song, probably written down after being given by the Spirit. As such, it does not extol doctrine or religion, but is a passionate musical and poetic expression of intense appreciation and deep love for YHVH Who has delivered, returned and blessed the exiles. So great is the zeal of the writer, that he proclaims that YHVH's glory and goodness must be published to the entire earth, every nation. He enthusiastically says that all mankind should hear of the deeds of the Almighty, and since Elohim is truly great, even beyond fathoming or describing, He therefore must be greatly praised!
New subjects generated by changing circumstances, and restoration movements (like Hebrew roots), provide inspiration for new songs. The Spirit will move on these awakenings and bring forth new songs that will proclaim the glories of what is taking place. In the past, new songs extolled salvation, holiness, divine favor and mercy, His presence, and emphasize/inculcate the restoration truth of that hour. David wrote Psalms about Israel, the sanctuary, and the Torah. Luther wrote hymns enshrining fundamentalist doctrine. Pentecostals wrote and sang songs of deliverance and heaven. Today, within the broad Hebraic roots movement, there is a return to Hebrew/Jewish music forms, and new songs are springing forth to declare the return of Ephraim and his restoration to the land and Judah. So expect the Holy Spirit to give you spontaneous new songs in keeping with what He is doing in this hour.
You are among the new generation (toldot) He is producing by calling you back to the Father's house, standard and blessing. So, every day this week you can utilize this psalm. Sing the first line or two unto Him while remembering your own deliverance from the miry pit and subsequent restoration. Then sing with the Spirit, in your own prayer language (tongues), and wait on Him. Listen, then sing as you are led by the Spirit. Discern when He is singing back to you.
So, according to this psalm of exuberant praise, how is our Elohim to be worshiped? By a new inspired song. It is that praise that celebrates His deity, character, new revelation of Himself, and the new restoration move/era that He is bringing to pass--in compliance with His prophetic promise.
Next week: Two categories of the song of YHVH.
Conclusion
"...and Isaac was sixty years old when she gave birth to them" (Gen. 25:26).
On his way to Padan-aram Jacob slept and dreamed. He had a vision of a ladder extending from earth to heaven [communication with Elohim for the heir of the promise], angels ascending and descending [YHVH's government in the earth], and YHVH above [Jacob's Source]. The dream made a deep, devout impression, and Jacob prayed, "keep me in this way that I go..." Gen. 28:21). YHVH responded, prospered him, and gave him wives and children, a new generation.
The promise to Abraham was finding fulfillment, first through Isaac and then through Jacob. After 20 years of marriage, frustration, and prayer, Rebekah and Isaac had finally produced children-"toldot". Three prophetic announcements were made in response to her inquiry concerning her pregnancy before YHVH. Twins would be born to Rebekah, they would become antagonistic nations, and that the older, Esau (who loved being outside), would serve the younger, Jacob (who loved staying home). Rebekah had heard enough to know what to expect, and not be taken by surprised by the likely domestic circumstances that the prophecy suggested would unfold in the future. Beyond that, His grace would be sufficient. Jacob was the seed of promise.
When our "Toldot"/offspring/new generation--"that which we have produced"--spiritually or biologically, is a cause for concern, we learn from both Isaac and Rebekah to take our trouble to YHVH's throne for the release of His renewing power and prophetic insight.
Abba is bringing forth a toldot, a new generation, a sanctified and set-apart Bride who will make herself ready for Messiah and the land. Are you part of the spiritual revolution?
1. Complete Study Questions.
Maintain your answer notebook.
2. Complete Your Prayer Journal.
"...and His sheep hear His voice, and He calls His sheep by name, and leads them out...and the sheep follow Him because they know His voice" (John 10:3-4).
A. Did you experience/encounter Yeshua's manifest presence this week during prayer, study, and worship as you ministered unto Him? B. Did you hear the voice/word of the Holy Spirit? In what way? C. Are your senses being conditioned/exercised to discern His word/voice? How? D. Have you met with others this week to pray and worship, and practice in functioning in the inspiration gifts? What were the results?
Continued next week.
