Parsha - Bo

PARSHA COMMENTARY

BLESS THE LAND

Parsha Commentary Study

Bo "Come!"

Bless the Land

Written by Hutch Church

January, 2010

Torah: Exodus 10:1-13:16

Haftorah: Jeremiah 46:13-28

Sugg. N.T.: 1 Corinthians 11:20-34

Gospels: Mark 4 and 5

Welcome: "The favor of the Master Yeshua Messiah, and the love of Elohim [Abba], and the fellowship of the Set-apart Spirit be with you all. Amen" (2 Cor. 13:14). May you be compassed with favor, given a revelation of the Father's love, and filled with the power of the Holy Spirit this week as you study, pray, and worship.

You are encouraged to peruse. [To examine or consider with attention and in detail: Study.] "But go and learn what this means..." (Mt. 9:13). Here Yeshua used a common rabbinic phrase. He spoke to religious debaters, specifically the Pharisees, and instructed them to go and diligently study [peruse] in order to correctly learn the principles and wisdom of the Torah, before entering into disputes about the application of the Law. It is good counsel for all disciples of Messiah to heed.

Introduction to Bo "Come!"

Last week: "God spoke further to Moses and said to him, I am YHVH..." (Exodus 6:2).

The Torah reveals that the name of something is often the embodiment, or articulation, of its essence; its real or ultimate nature. Although the Name given by Elohim to Moses, YHVH, was known by the patriarchs, they did not have the revelation or experience of its essence. They knew Elohim by His title, El Shaddai, the "All Sufficient One." Moses, on the other hand, was given a (1) full revelation of the meaning of YHVH, and a (2) demonstration of the Name's character as the seven judgments progressed, which are recorded in the previous parsha reading.

This week: "And the Lord said unto Moses, Go in unto Pharaoh: for I have hardened his heart, and the hearts of his servants, that I might show these my signs before him" (Exodus 10:1).

Bo means "come." Parashat Bo describes the three final judgments (or plagues) that came upon Egypt, culminating with the dramatic, climatic release of the Israelites from the land of affliction and exile. In Bo we witness the devastation of Egypt, the vanquishing of its false gods, and the humiliation of the proud and stubborn Pharaoh. Bo also includes the origin and details of Passover and Unleavened Bread, which are observed to this day to commemorate the Exodus story, and point to Yeshua as "the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29).

At the end of chapter nine last week, after the seventh plague, Pharaoh had wobbled in his stubbornness, but by chapter ten he has regained his arrogant resolve to withstand Moses and Aaron, and keep Israel in bondage. More judgments would follow; locusts, darkness, and the death of the first-born. Moses is sent again with more words of rebuke and warning, putting off the final stroke of judgment as long as possible, allowing the king of Egypt ample time and opportunity to reconsider Egypt's plight, humble himself and repent. YHVH's desire is for mercy to triumph over judgment whenever possible. Let us recall the words of the apostle Paul, "...I have become all things to all men that I may by all means [in long-suffering with every possible effort] save some [whosoever would]" (1 Cor. 9:22)

Although, in our Parashat we read that Elohim told Moses to "go to Pharaoh", a better characterization of the phrase would be, "come to Pharaoh". What YHVH actually said to His servant was, "Come with Me to Pharaoh." [Zohar] Moses would not be alone when he climbed the steps toward Pharaoh's throne to speak to him. This was because the eighth judgment/plague was eminent, and the evil power behind the monarch's throne was itself about to be confronted and crushed. Thus Pharaoh had to be faced on his own turf, in the royal court while seated on his dark, demon-encircled throne, the focal point of his wicked influence and the gateway from which flowed the demonic power that imprisoned Egypt in idolatry, and kept the Israelites in bondage. Moses was not ignorant of the mounting evil that was frantically resisting YHVH's warnings. He was aware that the principalities and powers of darkness, the noxious regional ruling spirits, had marshalled all their resources for a spectacular last stand against the Elohim of Israel, and was evidently reluctant to engage the swelling opposition without divine Company. Therefore, Moses is assured by YHVH that He would personally accompany him into the spiritually dark chamber.

Moses would come into Pharaoh's presence, accompanied by the Spirit of Elohim, and warn him of an impending plague of locusts if he did not release the Israelites. Locusts are referred to as "God's great army" in Joel 2:3. They would be the next judgment, from heaven above, and they would complete the work of agricultural destruction started by the hail. In ancient times, locusts were among the most costly and frightening calamities that could come upon a nation. Joel wrote of a plague of locusts as "a fire devoureth before them; and behind them a flame burneth; and the land is as the Garden of Eden before them, and behind them a desolate wilderness." They destroy every particle and fiber of vegetation and foliage--all the fields' crops--even the bark and stems of fruit trees. When the locusts depart, the land is absolutely barren.

Moses' words were anointed, especially empowered by the Spirit. When he announced this looming catastrophe to Pharaoh, there was for the first time a noticeable effect within the court. The confidence of Pharaoh's servants (the court officials) cracked as they finally began to realize the futility of resisting God, and they pleaded with their king, "Let the men go." They argued further, saying, "Knowest thou not yet that Egypt is destroyed?" Even Pharaoh was influenced, as unseen spirit forces receded from the strong presence of the Elohim's Spirit with Moses. He, also for the first time, made a concession, allowing the Israelites to depart on the condition they left their "little ones" behind. Moses did not agree to this, and the locusts came in full force, covered and darkened the land, and completely devoured the harvest. Not a leaf of vegetation was left.

Pharaoh repented, but when the plague of locusts lifted, he did not listen to his trusted counselors, and hardened his heart again. [Note: The heart that is hardened against YHVH is insensitive, totally indifferent to the cares and concerns of others. Please read Luke 16:19-31.]

In dealing with Pharaoh and Egypt, YHVH was methodically shaping (designing) the circumstances and events for bringing about the Exodus, Israel's redemption from Egypt. He intended to perform His great supernatural works of judgment on Egypt and bring His awed and inspired people out from their bondage in good health and with financial prosperity, fully reimbursed for their four hundred years of servitude, and rejoicing in the wondrous display of divine power by their Elohim. He planned for His mighty works of deliverance (judgments upon the false god of the land) to be remembered forever, generation after generation. He therefore gave His redemption acts a prominent world stage, colossal magnitude, devastating results, and a motivated audience that would carry the astounding story to the nations. The judgments and the plagues, and Israel's resultant exodus from Egypt, constituted YHVH's original "Shock and Awe" campaign. [See the Song of Moses, Exodus 15]

Darkness was the ninth plague. It settled upon the land like a huge blanket, and was a darkness so thick and deep that it "... may be felt" throughout all of Egypt. But there was light in Goshen where the Hebrews lived. Thus, the people of darkness had darkness. The children of light, enjoyed light. The children of light, Believers, look for a city which shall have "no need of the sun, neither the moon to shine in it; for the glory of God will lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof" (Rev. 21:23-24). The Jerusalem that will descend from the heaven of Elohim to earth, "having the glory of God" will enjoy the abiding presence of YHVH, and the Shechinah Glory. Thus, there will be no unrest, no curse, no pain, no sorrow, no heavy darkness. It was so in the Hebrews homes in Goshen. Pharaoh at once realized the darkness was sent from heaven and requested from Moses its removal, and offered another concession. It was rejected, and the monarch remained hardened, beyond the hope of repentance

Moses spoke to Pharaoh one last time, by YHVH's direction. The Almighty had informed His servant Moses that (1) only one more plague was coming, (2) the judgment would be effectual and bring about the release of the Israelites, and (3) the monarch would be eager for them to leave. The promise YHVH had made to Moses at Mount Horeb (Ex. 3:22), that Israel would "spoil the Egyptians," was about to come to pass. [Note: Waiting is common. Be patient. His Word is sure. "For the vision is yet for the appointed time...though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come..." (Hab. 2:30).]

In the time between the warning about the first-born and its fulfillment, the Passover was instituted. It began on the 14th day of "the beginning of months" of the Hebrew calendar, Nisan/ Abib. [Note: Israel's exodus from Egypt marks the birthday of the nation. To commemorate the historical event, the first day of the religious year was changed to the day of their departure in Nisan. The civil year continued to begin with Tishri. See: Ex. 23:16.] Unleavened Bread (15th day; seven days in length), and First Fruits (on the first day after the weekly Sabbath) are also part of the Passover Feast. The Passover lamb was intended to teach the Hebrews that the foundation of their deliverance and salvation was atonement. Passover is connected with the judgment of the first-born in Egypt. It must be remembered that Israel was YHVH's Son, His firstborn [See Ex. 4:22], and was represented by the nation's firstborn. Since Pharaoh refused to allow YHVH's Son, Israel, to leave, judgment came upon "all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast" (verse 12) who were not protected by the blood of the Passover lamb upon their houses doorposts. The death of the firstborn was a judgment, like the plagues of hail, locusts, and darkness, but the most severe. The (1) redemption by the blood of an innocent sacrifice, (2) the deliverance of Israel by Elohim's manifested power, and (3) the emergence of the people into a distinct nation under YHVH, went hand-in-hand. The Feast of Passover vividly reminds Believers that the medium on which their salvation is bestowed is the blood of atonement

Israel's redemption in Nisan marked its start as a nation. The people would soon be brought into covenant with YHVH at Mount Sinai. As it did for Israel, redemption for an individual Believer marks (1) the beginning of a new life. When a Believers is "born-again" (John 3:3) through faith in the shed Blood of Yeshua, our Passover Lamb, he has "passed from death to life" (John 5:24) and becomes "a new creature" (2 Cor. 5:17) in Messiah. As with Israel, our redemption also marks (2) the day of our separation from the world's value system [Egypt], and the commencement of a new, sacred life based upon the statutes, seasons and feasts of YHVH, including the commemoration of Passover. Our redemption, like that of Israel, further marks (3) the beginning of our journey to Zion, a new heaven and a new earth. It is the start of our sanctification, which is growing in divine grace, and maturing in spirit and truth.

Passover is a witness to the historical events of the Exodus. After Passover, lambs and other clean animals were sacrificed as part of Israel's system of offerings, and their blood presented to Elohim in anticipation of the Sacrifice to come, Messiah Yeshua. [Heb 10:1-3] Now, Yeshua has made atonement and has "put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself" (Heb. 9:26), and there is no need for further sacrifice. [Note: Ever since Eden and the entry of sin into the earth, man has needed atonement, which is the reconciliation between Elohim and man through the sacrificial death of Yeshua of Nazareth. {It is the reparation of offense; the payment for damages-sin.} The ancient sacrifices signified atonement, but did not effect it. Yeshua's sacrifice of Himself effected the primeval need of atonement for the past ages, the present, and the future. "For by grace are ye saved through faith..." (Eph. 2:8). The death, resurrection, and ascension of Yeshua are historical facts, and His second advent will occur in the future. He is always our Confidence. Yeshua (1) died as the Sacrifice for sin. (2) He ascended into the heavenly Tabernacle to be our High Priest, and today fills the Throne Room with the fragrance of His intercessions. (3) He shall come a second time to complete the salvation of His people, Israel. When He comes in great glory, "apart from sin" and unto salvation, He will say to His waiting people, "Come, ye blessed of my Father", and consummate the redemption of all Israel. At His first coming He saved our souls by paying the ransom for our redemption. At the second coming He saves [translates, glorifies] our bodies, i.e. completes the last installment of His ransomed possession. There is ample room in Yeshua's Atonement for everyone.]

One lesson we harvest from Bo for today's Believers is that we have no need to be fearful in life or ministry. Yeshua does not say "Go alone." But as He spoke with Moses, He says to us, "Come with Me, and let's face your challenges together." David experienced the company of YHVH in his conflicts, and wrote Psalm 18, a song of thanksgiving and praise in memory of his deliverances by the hand of Elohim. May we take it to heart. "He delivers me from my enemies; surely You lift me above those who rise up against me; You rescue me from the violent man" (Psalm 18:48).

There is also a reminder in parashat Bo for us. Since Messiah died for us, we are called to die for Him also. "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service" (Romans 12:1). The entire heart must be given over to Yeshua. This means we sacrifice our feelings and our affections, and not be dominated by anything contrary to His truth and Spirit. For instance, we love ourselves, our family, and friends dearly, but we love Him more. This discipline is for our ultimate good. We are transformed by denying ourselves, placing our body, soul, and spirit in His service, and obeying Him. Moses was at first a man of temper and haste. "So he looked this way and that, and...he struck down the Egyptian and hid him in the sand" (Exodus 2:12). But divine discipline (and time) produced a character change in him. "Now Moses was very meek, above all the men who were upon the face of the earth" (Nu. 12:3). [Note: Moses was consecrated to YHVH's service and had indeed developed meekness traits, but this is not to suggest that he was perfect, or above error. Two episodes of impatience and temper, following his call at Sinai to go to Egypt, are recorded of him. Nevertheless, Moses was sanctified to the remarkable extent that the Almighty could speak to him, "mouth to mouth (Ex. 12:8)", which is the equivalent of face-to-face. We do not know how this actually took place, but the Scriptures imply that there was familiar speaking with an audible voice coming from the presence of YHVH to Moses, and not an internal voice, inaudible to the ear, by which He spoke at times to His later prophets. Moses' revelations were therefore not subjective.]

We desire to move toward the same kind of intimacy with Yeshua that Moses enjoyed. Thus, it becomes necessary to take up our crosses and follow Him. We have no substitute to offer up to YHVH, only ourselves entirely. Self-sacrifice is the appropriate word. For those of us who desire to follow Him, and become like Him in holiness, there is no easy road. Self-denial is required. But in our pilgrimage He will strengthen, sustain, enrich, empower, and accompany us along the way, and our joy shall be made complete.

"Go therefore into all the world...and lo, I am with you always..." (Mt. 28:20). YHVH is our Elohim. Give yourself over to His purposes for your life, because what He means is, "come with Me, and let's go together into all the world." That perception changes things! Rest assured, His personal, accompanying Presence and Voice will bring you sweet fellowship, victory and joy, even in the face of your "pharaohs."

Knowing the Holy Spirit/Ruach ha Kodesh

The Holy Spirit and the Gospels

"Then the Lord said to Moses, stretch out your hand toward the sky, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, even darkness that may be felt...there was thick darkness in all the land of Egypt..but all the sons of Israel had light in their dwelling" (Exodus 10:21-23).

The children of false gods were wrapped in heavy, pitch-black darkness. The children of the Elohim of Israel enjoyed the miracle of holy light glowing in their dwellings. It was appropriate. From the beginning it has been so, as recorded in Genesis 1:4, "Elohim divided the light from the darkness." The two are incompatible and cannot share the same room. Men and angels are also divided into two groups, based upon their relationship to spiritual light, divine light. Some heavenly angels dwell in the radiance of Elohim's presence. They are "angels of light" (2 Cor. 11:14). Other angels, the pitiful spirits of gloom, who "did not keep their own domain, but abandoned their proper abode, He has kept in eternal bonds under darkness for the judgment..." (Jude 6). Scripture affirms that men are divided into two groups too, wheat [light] and tares [darkness]. "But you brethren are not in darkness...for you are sons of light and sons of day. We are not of night nor of darkness..." (1 Thess. 5:4-5). In the end, those who love darkness will have spiritual, mental, and physical darkness assigned to them. Those who love light, will have His heavenly, ineffable, Shechinah light as their portion. After the resurrection, "they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament" (Dan. 12:3). And our home will be that city which has "no need of the sun, neither of the moon to shine in it; for the glory of the Lord will lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof" (Rev. 21:23-24). Yeshua, our divine Redeemer, is the Light of the world. It is our privilege and joy to abide in Him, and "walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light..." (1 John 1:5-7).

"This I say then, walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh" (Gal. 5:16). As we walk in the Spirit, we walk in the light, the light of truth.

"But when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth, for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you" (John 16:13-14). One of the Holy Spirit's functions is to guide followers of Messiah in understanding Scripture, that we might glorify Yeshua as we walk in truth.

Four important points (culled from these verses) need to be made at this juncture. First, it is not the purpose or office of the Holy Spirit to originate, or to create, "new" truth. He illuminates to the hearts and minds of people with the truth already contained (unseen though it may be) within the revelation of Scripture [written Word] and in Yeshua [the living Word], thereby glorifying Him. He does not manifest new truth. Secondly, the role (office) of the Spirit is to lead--to be consistently drawing--the Believer's mind to perceive, appreciate, and assimilate divine truth. "...He will guide you into all truth." The truth already exists in Scripture, and in Yeshua Himself, and the Spirit brings us to it. The Ruach bears witness with the soul of man so he can perceive and assimilate YHVH's truth. This is sanctification, the life-long process of breaking down the barrier of sin and falsehood, and bringing the soul into harmony and compliance with divine revelation. Thirdly, the prominent role, or function of the Holy Spirit is to reveal and glorify Yeshua. The Spirit hears the divine truth, and what He receives He repeats and imparts to those prepared to receive, who have spiritual ears to hear. Fourthly, revelation (new understanding) would be given by the Spirit concerning Yeshua and the future. We believe this speaks of the inspiration of the entire New Testament, the apostolic writings, which provide a wondrous, prophetic vision of the future of Redeemed Israel. Keep in mind, in all this, the Holy Spirit is the One Who lifts up the divinity of Yeshua, glorifies His Name, crowns Him with honor, magnifies His majesty, presents Him as the Lamb of God and Lion of Judah, and draws souls into His Kingdom.

Thus we see the important aspects of the ministry of the Holy Spirit in glorifying Yeshua and imparting to Believers knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures through His "illumination" of the truth. He supernaturally opens our hearts and minds to perceive YHVH's truth. We need His enlightening power operating within our souls. Sin working in man dulls and handicaps his ability to understand and respond to the truth and strength of Scripture. But because of the enlightenment of the Spirit, His Word becomes "a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105).

There was a four hundred year period that passed between the ministry of Malachi and the advent of John the Baptist, and during that time there was a famine in Israel. There was not a new prophetic word from YHVH that was uttered or heard in the nation until the events that led to John's birth, and that of Yeshua. John was of the priestly line of Aaron. At thirty he began his short public ministry by preaching to the multitudes of Israel, and he emphasized the importance of the Spirit to all in Israel who would listen. "As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire" (Mt. 3:11). John was the forerunner of Messiah. His work was to preach and baptize, and to stir the people, to rouse them to prepare for the "way of the Lord."

Yeshua allowed John to baptize Him in water to "fulfill all righteousness" (Mt. 3:15). On this momentous occasion His Father said from heaven, "This is My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased" (verse 17). Yeshua gave us a divinely endorsed example that all Believers should be baptized with water as a public statement of their union with Messiah. But Scripture also informs us that all Believers should go further and partake of the baptism of Yeshua, in which He immerses the Believer in the living waters of the Holy Spirit. This experience (1) magnifies significantly the manifested presence of Yeshua through the Spirit, (2) provides a greater sense of intimacy with our resurrected Redeemer, (3) brings the recipient into higher levels of praise and worship, and (4) opens the doorway to the operation of the gifts of the Spirit and the supernatural ministry to which we are called. John 14:12-14.

Prayer, study, and obedience to revealed, illuminated truth is the pathway to spiritual benefits. The guidance and power of Elohim's Spirit must be sought and employed in all our activities and endeavors, especially religious ones. Otherwise there will be "periods of famine of the refreshing and prophetic ministry of the Spirit" upon the land. Such a dearth hastened the institutional "church" of old into the abyss of the dark ages. Therefore, in compliance with Holy Writ--be baptized with the baptism of Yeshua, and let the Spirit release your prayer language. John the Baptist has assured readers that Yeshua is the Giver of the Holy Spirit. This is the Gospel that was preached in Acts. There is a River of Life into which we may be plunged, and coming up from be found as new creations. Let us all listen to John.

And then, follow Yeshua. He is the Light of this dark world.

Knowing His Voice/Being Led by the Spirit

"And the Lord [YHVH] spoke unto Moses, one more plague I will bring on Pharaoh and on Egypt; after that he will let you go from here. When he lets you go, he will surely drive you out from here completely" (Exodus 11:1).

This is a parenthetical statement. As soon as Moses and Aaron had been forcefully driven out of the palace by Pharaoh, YHVH informed Moses that one more plague was forth-coming. It would be a judgment, and effectual to bring about the release of Israel, a departure that Pharaoh would actually hasten. A translation of Sforno reads: "He shall send you [the children of Israel] as he has sent you [Moses and Aaron, when he ejected you from the palace]; he shall surely thrust out all of you."

Moses heard the Voice/Word of YHVH at a pivotal time, and was instructed again, as well as heartened. The long episode of repeated confrontations with Pharaoh and his servants was about over and deliverance was finally at hand. Redemption would be certain, thorough, and accomplished with honor and with wealth bestowed upon the departing Hebrews. There are times when it is critical for YHVH's people must hear Him.

Simeon is another example of someone who was sensitive to the Spirit upon him, and was led by Him at a critical moment. "...Simeon...and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ [YHVH's Messiah, anointed One]...and he came in the Spirit into the Temple... (Luke 2:25-28)." Simeon, a pious man, was anointed and led by the Spirit to be in attendance at the dedication of Yeshua in the Temple, where he would prophesy over the Child in the company of His parents. The Saviour's circumcision took place on the eighth day after His birth. It was then that He received the Name of Yeshua (Y'Shua). But it was forty days following Yeshua's birth that His parents appeared in the Temple to dedicate the Child to the service of YHVH.

Simeon was an aged, Spirit-impelled Believer. He was open to the word and to the leading of the Holy Spirit. He knew from revelatory communications from Him: (1) When to go to the temple and look "for the consolation of Israel." (2) Who to approach; "...then he took Him into his arm." (3) What to say while under the Spirit's prophetic unction; "A Light of revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel." Simeon waited patiently for the Holy Spirit to reveal to him the place and time he would have the joy and satisfaction of soul in seeing the Messiah, the hope of Israel. He was not disappointed, but left overjoyed once he had held up the Saviour and prophesied over Him.

Anna is another prominent figure in the narrative of Yeshua's dedication. At His presentation before YHVH she spoke under the leading of the Spirit. "At that very moment she came up and began giving thanks to God, and continued to speak of Him to all those who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem" (v. 38).

Read the parsha Scriptures and listen for the voice/word of Adonai. He will guide you. Follow His instructions as did His servants Moses, Simeon, and Anna. When the Almighty says "Bo" ("go" or "enter"), He is also saying "Come with Me, and let's go together." He went with Moses into Pharaoh's throne room. He sent Simeon and Anna to the Temple, but went with them for the important meetings. When He leads you, He goes with you also. Thus we see that when the Spirit leads Believers in a direction, He usually has something for us to say and do as we go, and when we arrive! He accompanies us in our "going" and will inspire/empower us in our "speaking". This truth is very encouraging. The voice/word of YHVH will lead us to pivotal events in our lives, and in those of others. Therefore, read and listen carefully this week. Rest in your "communion with the Spirit" (2 Cor. 13:14), and expect to hear and sense good things from Him.

As you read, keep in mind there are four levels of interpretation/hearing in Hebrew study. They are: (1) P'Shat-the simple, or surface meaning, (2) Remez-the hint, suggested, or implied deeper meaning, (3) Drash-deeper study, exposition, allegorical, verse by verse comparisons, sermon level, and (4) Sod-the hidden, revelatory level coming by way of the voice of the Holy Spirit.

Weekly Parsha Commentary Study: Bo "Enter!"

"How blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the Law of the Lord. How blessed are those who observe His testimonies, who seek Him with all their heart" (Psalm 119:1-2).

It is the obedience that comes from the heart that is pleasing and acceptable before Elohim. His precepts are given for careful and continual observance. May your study be blessed this week.

Readers' Prayer: "Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of the law" (Psalm 119:18).

Note: The following parsha's Scriptures and the Seven Questions are (1) the heart of the commentary study from which the reader can be most enriched. They are (2) the intended, primary medium of practice (exercise) for listening to and hearing the voice/word of Elohim, and as such are (3) the expected means by which the Spirit will directly communicate personal edification, exhortation, revelation, and instruction to the student.

Exodus 10:1-13:16 [Torah]: Pharaoh hardens his heart again/Moses confront Pharaoh/Last plagues: locusts, darkness/Pharaoh warned one last time/Moses prepares Israel/Last plague: death of the firstborn/Passover lamb/Unleavened bread/Memorial of redemption/Exodus of Israel/Ordinance of Passover/Sanctification of the firstborn.

Jeremiah 46:13-28 [Haftorah]: A repeat of history. Egypt to be judged, this time by Babylon acting as the instrument of YHVH.

1 Corinthians 11:20-34 [New Testament]: Includes the Lord's Supper, Yeshua instituting the New Covenant, and order in the Ecclesia.

Mark 4 and 5 [Gospels]: Includes parable of sower and soils, mustard seed, and Gerasene Demoniac, miracles and healing.

Study Questions: A. Keep these questions in mind as you read each week's assigned Scriptures, and ask Ha Shem to give you fresh insight and inspired answers for each one of them. B. Allow your senses to be exercised, conditioned, disciplined, trained to hear, discern and respond to the Holy Spirit's input, His prophetic voice /word. C. Join a group.

1. In your opinion, what is the major teaching or theme of the Torah reading?

2. What is the supporting, complementary truth in the Haftorah?

3. What is the corresponding idea in the New Testament section?

4. Summarize the common teaching (central truth) that unites the entire parsha, as you see it.

5. Relate the main teaching from the three parsha readings with the assigned Gospel chapter. Where or how does Yeshua model/demonstrate your central truth?

6. What does this week's parsha study teach you about your biblical, Hebraic: a. identity, b. birthright, c. heritage, d. destiny, and/or e. duty?

7. How did the Spirit of Truth (John 14:15-18) anoint and teach you this week?

Israel

Israel is YHVH's firstborn. Leadership is a calling.

"It shall be when the Lord brings you to the land of the Canaanite...which He swore to your fathers to give you, a land flowing with milk and honey, that you shall observe this rite in this month" (Exodus 13:5).

Moses was a great leader, and he would surround himself in the wilderness with other intelligent and dedicated men, the seventy elders and the tribal leaders, to help him administrate Israel. Able and committed leadership is necessary for the success of any undertaking. Israel has had many unique and gifted leaders.

The Hebrews were instructed to consecrate the firstborn of every womb among the sons of Israel, both of man and animal. They were also commanded (v. 6) to keep the ordinance of unleavened bread at its appointed time from year to year, in the month of Abib. Further, they were instructed by YHVH through Moses (v.16) to wear phylacteries (tefillin) on the hand (arm) and forehead to serve as a reminder of how they were brought out of Egypt by the powerful hand of YHVH. The Exodus of Israel was to be remembered constantly. The future generations were to be taught about it. The maintenance of these important culture-sustaining statues would be the responsibility of the leaders. [Note: The tefillin on the arm symbolizes the dedication of one's deeds to the Lord, while the tefillin on the forehead symbolizes the dedication of the intellect. Further, they were to be the means of recollecting and thereby keeping YHVH's Law in the Israelite heart (left arm) and in the mouth (head).]

"...the word of the Lord came by the prophet Haggai to Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest, saying...rebuild the temple...then Zerubbabel...and Jehozadak...with the remnant of the people, obeyed the voice of the Lord their God and the words of Haggai the prophet" (Haggai 1).

In another example, leadership in Israel was critical in the return of Judah from captivity and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. The will of YHVH was communicated by the prophet Haggai to the leaders and people of Judah who had returned from exile in Babylon. They were to remember the ordinances and build a second temple. Two men were initially appointed and raised up as the leaders. They were Zerubbabel, of the royal descent of David, and Jehozadak, of the priestly line. They had been esteemed personages during the Babylonian captivity and had the respect of the Jews and of Cyrus, King of Persia. Once again, YHVH found and positioned well-suited people to lead the tasks at hand, and in the course of time success was enjoyed by the returned remnant. It's interesting to note that the kingly line of Judah and the priestly line of Aaron were represented by these two leaders in the re-building of Jerusalem and the Temple.

Leadership for Israel is still as important modern times as it was in the past. Today, leadership is invested in the prime minister and the parliament, called the Knesset, which means Assembly. The Knesset contains 120 seats. Any party that gets two percent or more of the total vote is assured a seat in the Knesset. The result is a great variety of political parties and many divergent points of view being represented in the assembly. Once in place, the Knesset political parties need to build coalitions to form power bases. This can be difficult, given the diversity of Israeli opinions, but allows for smaller parties to unite and gain influence.

Every four years national elections are held for the office of prime minister, and for seats in the government. Israel also has a president who is elected every seven years by the Knesset. Jews and Arabs are both eligible to be elected to national office.

There are two main parties along with smaller one in the government. The Likud (means "cohesion") Party is regarded as conservative, and the Labor Party is held as left wing, or more liberal. However, both support private enterprise and the middle class, egalitarian values. Traditionally, the Labor Party has been the choice of the educated and wealthy Ashkenazim, primary Eastern European Jews. The Likud Party has traditionally appealed to the less affluent, particularly the Sephardim Jews. They take a tougher stand against Palestinian statehood, dividing Jerusalem, and giving land away for peace.

In 2005 Ariel Sharon formed the Kadima (meaning "forward") Party. The other parties, like the Orthodox, represent various political and religious positions. To form a government, parties must build effective majority coalitions.

Latter Days

"...for by strength of hand the Lord brought us forth from Egypt" (Exodus 3:16).

YHVH's power is needed by the Ecclesia.

Yeshua's people must know His power in the last days to function in their end-times restoration calling. "But you shall receive power" (Acts 1:8). Yeshua did not promise the disciples specific knowledge concerning the restoration of the kingdom to Israel. Instead, He promised them "Spirit strength" for the future. Power--spiritual power, divine-life power, enhanced YHVH- consciousness, vigor of heart and mind, His direct presence and unction--was promised to His disciples. Spirit power would absolutely be needed, and thus would be amply provided for His purposes, that we would be His sanctified and enabled witnesses. We need Holy Spirit power now, not more wealth or ritual, or more education and organization, or excuses. This is the priority. Therefore, let us (1) honor His Word, (2) cry out for a great "former and latter rains" outpouring on His people, and (3) live in a manner that produces no hindrances to His entries and workings.

All power belongs to the Elohim of Israel. Moses kept His word, Pharaoh buckled, Egypt was destroyed, and Israel was gloriously delivered. Everything--kingdoms, nations, pharaohs, leaders, all men--bend in the presence of YHVH's power. God's power is almighty and subordinates all things before it. "And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which will never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever. Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter" (Daniel 2:45-45). YHVH will overcome the kingdoms of this world and establish His Messianic Kingdom by His own power, against which no resistance can stand.

For the latter days we are told, "difficult times will come...men will...be lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God, having a form [outward semblance] of godliness, but denying the power [the reality of love for Elohim and man] thereof: from such turn away" (2 Tim. 3:2-5).

These verses speak of Christian paganism. In the latter days many will have a liturgical and religious regularity, an outward show of faith. It will be a mask. The power of (1) godliness will be absent because the power of (2) the Spirit will be denied among them. (3) Hence, falsehood and worldliness will overtake them. The true Bride, however, will be adorned in all He has restored and provided for this hour.

Lesson: Benefiting from His power and obedience to His Word are related. "Then saith He to the man, stretch forth your hand. And he stretched it forth; and it was restored whole, like as the other" (Mt. 12:13). Yeshua was ministering to the man with the withered hand, who stretched out his atrophied appendage as he had been commanded by Yeshua. When he did, his hand was totally restored by divine power. This man's response to Yeshua illustrates a comprehensive lesson: all people can do what they ought to do. Put another way, the person who tries to obey will find himself able (enabled by His resistless power) to obey, and therein be blessed. His holy blessing, His power, is accessible by all of us! Going further, Yeshua also said to another man, the paralytic on the cot, "Rise, take up thy bed and walk." The man tried to obey the command, and found that divine power flowed into him on account of his obedience, effort. He arose and carried his cot home while rejoicing. If he had waited around until he felt like walking, he may have waited forever.

Obedience is the signature [evidence] of faith. The application of God's power, of the type that removes and establishes kingdoms, is His response to faith and obedience. [These are two sides of the same coin. They confirm one another.] His power displaces the world's corruptive disorder with His Kingdom's divine order. By His strength life replaces death, health displaces sickness, courage displaces fear, and so on. With that in mind, if we want to experience His power in these last days let us heed Miriam's counsel to the disciples at Cana. "Whatever He saith to you, do it." That is how you meet with the power of Elohim.

It's important to believe this, because of these Latter Days He has also said: "Come, lets us return unto the Lord; for He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten, and He will bind us up. After two days He will revive us: in the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rains unto the earth" (Hos. 6:1-3).

In the passage, the exiled people finally realized that their affliction had brought about their repentance so they could return to YHVH and be healed. Thus, they had confidence in the willingness and power of God to revive and restore them individually and nationally. Revival implies there exists a previous condition of death. The House of Israel was dead to God, so to speak. The banished kingdom had descended into spiritual death through unbelief and idolatry, and it's restoration would be the equivalent of "life from the dead". Revival is an act of divine power (Eph. 1:19). Only the omnipotence of YHVH could bring back scattered, rejected, exiled Israel from his spiritual grave. Divine power is required for all resurrections; the resurrection of Messiah (Eph. 1:20), the resurrection of the dead soul (John 5:25), as well as the resurrection of the body (John 5:28-29; 1Cor. 15:35-58). And, only His power can resurrect, return and restore the House of Israel, for revival is through Messiah alone. Our expectation is sure, though. Revival with a concurrent outpouring of the Spirit will follow repentance. We need revival, a Hebraic truth-centered, Spirit-filled revival in America, and in Israel. Let's us therefore repent (individually and corporately), and pray for a mighty visitation of the Spirit upon the land. Yeshua will open Himself up to all returning Israelites in fresh manifestations of grace and power as we persevere in seeking His face.

Let us obey, return to our Father's House as we have been directed to do by the Holy Spirit, and be blessed by Elohim's accompanying presence and mighty outstretched arm assisting us in rising to a totally new level in Spirit and Truth.

Bless the Land

1. Pray for Israel.

"The Lord appeared to Israel saying, Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn you and continued in My faithfulness to you" (Jer. 31:3).

Pray for the spiritual and physical welfare/ good of the Israeli people, and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Prayer model: Neh. 1: 4-11.

Pray for the Father to raise up and anoint servants to teach/instruct Ephraim in these end-times, that Ephraim would repent of "the deeds of her youth [exile]" (Jer. 31:18-19), and be restored.

2. Pray for America/Pray for Your Nation.

"...that the manifold wisdom of God might be made known through the church to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places" (Eph. 3:10).

Pray for the wisdom of God to rest upon all who are in authority in America, and Israel, at the federal, state, and civil levels.

3. Pray for Haiti.

4. Sing the Song of the Lord [New Song]. Praise and Worship

"Praise ye the Lord. Sing unto the Lord a new song and His praise in the congregation of the saints. Let Israel rejoice in Him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise His Name in the dance: Let them sing praises unto Him with the timbrel and harp: For the Lord takes pleasure in His people: He will beautify the meek with salvation" (Psalm 149:1-3).

This psalm refers to a new deliverance that had taken place for Israel, possibly during Nehemiah's leadership and the rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall and gates. The grace and power of divine deliverance for Israel from her enemies, who had relentlessly opposed Nehemiah's work, had generated new feelings of faith and thanksgiving that were expressed in a "new song". YHVH had given them fresh hope that He could be relied upon to support and sustain His people in their rebuilding labors, despite the presence of enemies.

The Song of the Lord and the New Song are similar. Both are inspired, can be prophetic, and often rise from a heart where there is an awareness of fresh grace and mercy received from Elohim. A "new song" becomes the "song of the Lord" when the words of Yeshua, under the unction of the Spirit, are sung (back) to His people through the yielded vessel. The more we live in His truth, the more our lives will be filled with His blessings and our mouths filled with His praises, and new songs. Let us worship Him heartily in the congregation and happily at home in childlike reverence and joy, with the freedom and spontaneity of the Spirit. The praise of our lips glorifies YHVH and, at the same time, is a powerful and strong weapon that rains down blows upon "rulers...powers...world forces of this darkness...the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places" (Eph. 6:12).

Most of all we sing fresh songs because YHVH has a claim on us, for He is our Creator and Ruler (verse 2). Our allegiance belongs to Him Who called us into being, gave us self-consciousness, filled us with enormous capacities and potential, and brought us close to Himself. He has done great things.

In conclusion, we ask: "Why would the 'new song' become the more personal 'song of the Lord'?". Because, as the psalmist says, "the Lord takes pleasure in His people" (Verse 4). We are His heritage and He is our Hope! Therefore, He will take the occasion to anoint the singer(s) of a new song with prophetic unction, and interject His love song back to the worshiper(s). The psalm assures us: (1) Yeshua is deeply interested in the welfare of all His people, even many that are still far off, and is lovingly gathering us back to His Hebraic truth. (2) He watches over and guides, by His Spirit, those returning exiles who are asking for their way home to Him and their Hebrew/Jewish origins. (3) He welcomes back into His fold the repenting and returning Israelites with a parent's joy. (4) He accepts with pleasure the praise, worship, and service, however imperfect, from the sincere hearts of His followers. (5) Yeshua looks upon our efforts to grow in Spirit and in Truth with compassion and pleasure, and willingly extends His grace and blessings to assist such earnest, seeking disciples.

Now you have been reminded of reasons to be glad. Sing Psalm 23 to Him this week.

Conclusion

"And the Lord gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover the man Moses was very great [influential] in the land of Egypt, in the sight of Pharaoh's servants, and in the sight of the people" (Ex. 11:3). Though Moses was sent, told to "go" and to "enter", yet YHVH was with him in his going out and his coming in. Hence, he: (1) confounded the magicians (Ex. 8:18-19); (2) impressed the court officials to the point where some secretly heeded his warnings and saved their cattle and slaves by so doing (Ex. 19:20); (3) by his integrity and confidence, intimidated the court, forcing them to acknowledge that he had the authority to save or ruin Egypt (Ex. 10:7); and (4) came to a place where he negotiated with the Pharaoh as an equal (Ex. 10:8-18). So we see from the unfolding events that YHVH's word earlier to Moses had come to pass. "See, I have made thee a god to Pharaoh" (Ex. 7:1).

There are some things for us to remember regarding the greatness of Moses. First, Moses was not seeking greatness or notoriety. Like Yeshua, he came not to do his own will. Secondly, he was not expecting greatness or acclaim. He was somewhat reluctant. Thirdly, Moses' greatness came by his service to Elohim. Fourthly, Moses became great and respected because YHVH's magnified PRESENCE went with him and His POWER rested upon him (Deut. 34:10-12).

New Testament Living

Greatness of character is the product of a life-association with the living Elohim. Because of his consecration and humility, Moses could speak with confidence and boldness, and say, "Thus says the Lord, about midnight will I go out to the midst of Egypt" (Ex. 11:4).

The same was true at Pentecost. The apostle Peter, fresh from the baptism in the Holy Spirit, and under His unction, spoke and acted boldly also. When arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin, the ruling Jewish officials were amazed at their poise, wisdom, spiritual insight, and power. "Now as they observed the confidence of Peter and John and understood they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus" (acts 4:13).

Yeshua had said "Go" (Mt 28:18), but meant He would go with them ["...lo, I am with you always"] by the Spirit.

For the week: "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have, for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee" (Heb. 13:5).

Complete the Study Questions.

To be continued.

Hutch Church, D. Min. / blesstheland@live.com/ www.blesstheland.net