Parsha Commentary Study
Miketz "At the end of"
Written by Hutch Church
December, 2009
Torah: Genesis 41:1-44:17.
Haftorah: 1 Kings 3:15-4:1.
Sugg. N.T.: 1 Cor. 2:1-5.
Gospels/Acts: Matt. 21 and 22.
Welcome: "To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greetings" (James 1:1).
We are alive at a time when the Saints must develop their spiritual senses to personally know the voice/word of the Almighty, and become more mature in their knowledge and experience of the Torah (Scripture) and the Holy Spirit. In this way they can more effectually participate in the fulfillment of end-time prophecies relating especially to the restoration of all Israel. Hence, our education ministry at Bless the Land is learning based upon (1) studying the Scriptures and (2) hearing from the Holy Spirit. "For all who are being led by the Spirit, these are the [maturing, fruit-bearing] sons of God" (Rom. 8:14).
Commit to learning and growing in Spirit and Truth. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law" (Gal. 5:22).
The greater our knowledge of and experience with the kingdom, power, and glory of Elohim, the more fruitful will be our lives. This would serve us well, for the fruit of the Spirit is powerful, and honors/pleases YHVH, enriches people, and preempts the works of the flesh. Thus, we see the fruit of the Spirit, which should increasingly adorn the lives of all those claiming to belong to Messiah, falls into three groupings. Love, joy and peace comprise the first group, and speak of our relationship with YHVH. The next grouping includes patience, kindness, and goodness, which pertain to our relationship with our neighbor. Finally, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (temperance) refer to the character and conduct of our own lives. The fruit of Messianic life comes forth in the Saints from the divine life-flow of the indwelling Spirit. But such fruit producing life must be desired, cultivated and liberated by (1) obedience to the degree/measure of spiritual and moral truth by which one has been enlightened, (2) regular communion with Yeshua, and (3) practical, love-motivated service. This is accomplished by faith. But it might serve us to contemplate a long-standing colonial definition of faith, which is, "...an active trust in Yeshua [not intellectualism or passive dependence] that rouses all the energies and resources of the soul to love and active service." This is where our enduring joy is to be found.
Growth and joy are your portion. Carry out your intention to bear fruit. It takes work, but angels are watching, standing by and ready to minister. Jacob wrestled. You will succeed because He will come alongside and assist you in making great strides. Take heart in the words of the Apostle Paul, for this is Yeshua's word to you, now. "For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ" (Phil. 1:6).
Co-operate with Him. You will experience increasing zeal and joy as the Kingdom of Elohim advances in your soul.
Introduction to Miketz "At the end of"
Last week: "And the keeper of the prison [the captain of the round house, the chief officer of the tower] committed to Joseph's hand all the prisoners that were in the prison...the Lord was with him, and that which he did, the Lord made it to prosper" (Gen. 39:22-23).
In the previous parsha's Torah narrative, Va Yeshev, Joseph was sold into Potiphar's house and became his chief servant. While in the Egyptian's employ, out of the blue a strong, potentially catastrophic temptation came upon him in the form of Potiphar's impudent, lustful wife. From this episode we glean certain admirable character qualities of Joseph that are worthy to be emulated. Be alert! When temptation comes--and it will at any time and from any direction--we are to flee from it, not flirt with it, and fall. Joseph rejected the promiscuous advance: (1) without hesitation; any lingering would have augmented the strength of the temptation, (2) without indecision; double-mindedness/second thoughts cause one to lose resolve, wobble and fall, (3) without rudeness or self-righteousness; his words revealed his moral indignation, but were without fault, and (4) without fear; he prepared to face the risk and all possible consequence. Joseph's temporary reward: The wife's slander, the masters wrath, and the dank, dark prison cell became his assigned portion. However, "...the Lord was with him..."
This week: "And it came to pass at the end of two full years [probably 2 years after the butler's release and restoration to his old position], that Pharaoh dreamed..." (Genesis 41:1).
In parsha Miketz we read about Joseph's miraculous ascension from the prison to the palace, and the position of ruler over Egypt, under Pharaoh. Miketz means "at the end". The word "end" can also be interpreted to mean "extreme", which implies the existence of another, polar "extreme" at the other end of a spectrum. Joseph had been thrown to the extreme bottom of Egyptian society, an ancient foul fortress, for resisting an extreme in moral depravity, adultery. He later rises to another extreme, the top of Egyptian society, by honoring the extreme of moral behavior, Torah integrity. Remember, YHVH's Torah, even the entire Word of Elohim, is comprised of divine principles/instructions for earthly existence, that if honored, will create prosperity of soul and life while on earth. Having stated that, it follows that every struggle/enemy/trial (descent) is a possible passageway to victory and increase (ascent) for those who walk uprightly. "For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome. For whatever is born [begotten] of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcomes the world--even our faith" (1 John 5:3-4) .These are the words of the aged Apostle John, a man of many experiences and trials. He writes that the person who is already committed to the will and purpose of Elohim will not find His ways or statutes difficult at all. Why? Because, the opposition to obedience--Spiritual darkness and the world's resistance to the restoration of the Kingdom of God--has already been defeated and overcome. Therefore, how can one who truly believes in Yeshua fail?
Keep in mind, He has overcome the world and put to shame its evil elements by (1) His obedience to death, (2) His conquest of the evil one, (3) by His atoning death by which the evil one has been cast out [he is no longer the legal landlord of the planet], and (4) by His intercession He secures victory in the lives of them who trust Him. [See: Hebrews 7:23-28.] Our faith unites us to Him, and gives us each an abundant share in His victories. By trusting in His shed Blood, declaring His Name, and confessing His holy Word, the powers of darkness are joined and defeated in our battles. And the glorious testimony that comes forth, again and again, is that Yeshua, for a fact, is the Son of Elohim! This is the witness: the fruit of the Spirit over-coming the works of the flesh.
The Scriptures open with the monarch of Egypt having had dreams at night that bewildered him and left him highly agitated. The wise men, astrologers, and magicians, when summoned, were unable to decipher the dreams, leaving Pharaoh frustrated and even more troubled. The king's butler then remembered his cell mate, Joseph, and explained to his master that he had accurately interpreted the butler's and baker's dreams. Joseph is summoned to the royal chamber and interviewed. Pharaoh tells him about the dreams and asks if he can provide an interpretation. Joseph points Pharaoh to YHVH, declaring that interpretations can come only from YHVH, the divine Interpreter, but by the exercise of prophetic faith, assures Pharaoh that Elohim would give him an answer that would lead to his own happiness and his country's welfare. Joseph then listens to the rehearsal of the night time visions, and he declares that seven years of plenty will be followed by seven of famine, that the dream reveals the certainty of the interpretation because of its repetition, and then recommends the implementation of a national strategy, one that would need an able and wise administrator. As befitting one who had proved himself so valuable in service to Pharaoh and Egypt, Joseph is immediately and lavishly recompensed. Joseph's permanent reward: (1) Joseph's recommendations were recognized and accepted, (2) he was promoted as the grand administrator over the entire land (second only to Pharaoh), (3) he received Pharaoh's own ring-signet of authority, (4) he was given a new name-Zaphnath-paaneah, (5) he was naturalized as an Egyptian prince by virtue of the new name, and (6) he was married to the daughter of the court's high priest, who represented the highest caste of dignitaries in the State, (7) he became wealthy, going from rags to riches in one day, (8) he was divinely placed (and thereby distinguished), by the over-ruling providence [the divine power caring for, sustaining and guiding human destiny] of the Almighty, for the next phase in the fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant, (9) he was validated before his accusers and totally vindicated, (10) he was increased in the knowledge and fidelity of YHVH Himself, (11) he was given children who were prophesied over by Jacob and received the first-born blessing, (12) he was eventually respected and honored by his father and brothers, (13) he had a descendant lead Israel in conquering Canaan, and (14) he was eventually laid to rest in the Cave of Machpelah in the Promised Land, in the tomb of the Patriarchs.
The Pharaoh dreamed, the butler remembered, Joseph came out of prison, and YHVH accomplished His intentions. So, "at the end" things turned out well, after all. What can we surmise from the reading? The world by its own wisdom cannot know YHVH, His kingdom, power, or glory, any more than the magicians of Pharaoh's court could interpret his dreams. But you know Him because He is with you, and is in you. See: John 14:16-18 and Acts 1 and 2. Therefore, O Israel, rejoice, do not allow your struggles--they are part and parcel of life--overcome you, fear the Lord, walk in His integrity, and He will lift you (as He did Joseph) as high and take you as far as you hope.
"He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dung hill; that He may set him with princes, even the princes of His people" (Psalm. 113:7-8).
Knowing the Holy Spirit/Ruach ha Kodesh
The Holy Spirit in the Old Testament: Part 2 of 5
"And there was with us a young man, an Hebrew, servant to the captain of the guard; and we told him, and he interpreted to us our dreams; to each man according to his dream he did interpret" (Gen. 41:12).
Joseph had been refined/prepared by a long experience in the furnace of abuse and imprisonment. He was ready to stand before Pharaoh, where the butler's testimony would place him, and from there to step into a role of authority and honor. Without the direct involvement of the Holy Spirit assisting him, Joseph would have had no more success in effectively answering the monarch than did the court magicians and astrologers before him.
In the Old Testament we have abundant evidence of the Spirit coming upon and empowering certain people for specific tasks and ministries. In the time of the judges, the backsliding, morally weak Israelite people were often in danger of being over-run and destroyed by surrounding nations. At such times, once the people had repented and returned to YHVH with prayers and supplications, the Holy Spirit would come upon certain individuals (judges, kings) and specially anoint, quicken, enable them to lead the particular tribes/people, delivering them from their oppressors, and overseeing their subsequent restoration. In the following examples we will see again that it was always the Holy Spirit's presence and activity that brought forth the successful outcomes for the Israelites.
"And when the children of Israel cried unto the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer...even, Othniel...and the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he judged Israel..." (Judges 3:9-10). The same pattern is seen throughout Judges: Israel falls into in apostasy, then servitude, distress, finally repentance, and, at that point, the Holy Spirit would come upon and empower the selected judges to rally and deliver them. Afterwards, there was a rest of period with a renewal of religion and morality. Such was Israel in the days of Othneil.
Early in the referenced episode, when unfaithful Israel had become joined to Baal worship, and was sorely oppressed by "Chushan the Wicked", Elohim raised up Othneil, a chieftain, and a kinsman of Caleb, as the deliverer. He went to war and the Lord, who inspired Othneil's courage, delivered the king of Mesopotamia into his hand. The anointed, victorious warrior ascended to judgeship, went on to rule faithfully, and Israel gravitated to his moral authority. The deliverance and re-establishment of the people of Israel as a Torah society, time and again, was completely subject to the orchestration and empowering of the Spirit of YHVH, the Holy Spirit, not man. True deliverance must always come forth from the presence and empowerment of the Holy One, by His Spirit. Other examples of Spirit-anointed and inspired judges include: Gideon (Judges 6:34), Jephthah (Judges 11:29), and Samson (Judges 14 and 15). Thus, the success of the Judges in war and social administration must be attributed to the Holy Spirit's personal and direct involvement with them, and their compliance/yieldedness to Him.
The Spirit came upon kings of Israel as well as the judges. "Then Samuel took a vial of oil and poured it upon his head...and said...the Spirit of the Lord will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy...and the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied among them" (1 Samuel 10:1-10). Saul was anointed to be the King of Israel [the term here also means "war leader"] and he was prophesied over by the prophet-judge, Samuel. Saul was told, "the Spirit of YHVH will come upon you". The Hebrew meaning of the phrase could be written, "the Spirit will come mightily, in an over-powering fashion, upon you, and though untrained, you will prophesy exuberantly under His heavy unction, and from the experience be inwardly transformed into a different man." This Spirit-inspired prophesy meant that Saul, by the Spirit coming upon him, would be renewed and invigorated in his soul, given new thoughts and emotions, new physical stamina, and mental prowess which would enable him to know YHVH more personally, take wise action, lead Israel, and subdue enemies in any event or situation that arose during his reign. Samuel's word was good, and came to pass. The Spirit descended on Saul as prophesied, imparted and sustained new endowments [charismata] with which Saul was wonderfully enriched, and that were demonstrated when the new king later defeated the Ammonites. For a short season, while he exercised holy faith and honorably discharged his sacred duties, Saul lived victoriously and "...tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come" (Heb. 6:5)
Saul did not maintain obedience to the Torah and the Spirit of Elohim left him. "But the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul..." (1 Sam 16:14). The Spirit leaving him refers to the special, divine empowerment, presence, and peace once given, being lifted and withdrawn. As a result the king was left powerless and exposed, open to inner and outer enemies, frail (and knowing it), and susceptible to failure, in a much worse condition than he had been before the Spirit's visitation/coming to rest on him. [Read: Hebrews 6.]
Let us go further, and briefly recall David. "Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him...and the Spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day forward..." (1 Sam 16:13). The Spirit came upon David and remained [not in the New Covenant sense of regeneration and indwelling, but empowering], even through David's three backsliding episodes, because unlike Saul, he always genuinely repented of his transgressions. Thus, David was basically very successful as a leader, warrior, king, prophet, and psalmist. His success is attributable to the presence and prowess of the Spirit of YHVH active on his behalf during his life.
"You shall receive power..." (Acts 1:8). Old Covenant Israel experienced the Spirit coming upon servants, judges, and kings, for a greater or lesser period of time according to the servant's faithfulness and YHVH's purposes. However, New Covenant Israel--the houses of Judah and Ephraim/Israel, and all their companions in faith all over the world--have the Spirit, and His power not only on us [see: 1 Peter 4:14], but in us [See: John 14:16-18; 1 Cor. 3:16; 6:19.] The New Covenant is distinguished by and blessed with the promise of the Spirit permanently (1) upon, (2) within, and (3) remaining with Believers through the new birth spoken of by Messiah in John 3:1-16. Take notice. "...having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, Who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God's own possession, to the praise of His glory" (Eph. 1:13-14). The indwelling Spirit is represented as the pledge/earnest/down payment (so to speak) of our future life, our inheritance of a new, immortal body. "But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised up Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you" (Roman 8:11).The Spirit is a blessing and a security who now makes us His home/temple. Wonderful.
A significant, but over-looked purpose of the Hebrew roots movement, that is now becoming increasingly obvious, is the call for the return of the Ecclesia to the fullness of the power and presence of the Spirit, which was the distinguishing characteristic of the early Apostolic model. Why press the issue, one might ask? We do so because the Ecclesia must not be uninhibited with their affection for the Holy Spirit, but openly yielded/surrendered to the Him, if Yeshua is to be Master and Husband of His fold. The function of the Apostles and disciples, which is insisted upon in Scripture, is to be witnesses. The Holy Spirit is the precious gift of the Father, sent by Yeshua to regenerate and permanently indwell and empower Believers, making them new creations and anointed ambassadors of His kingdom! [See: 2 Cor. 5:17.] Throughout the Word, the Spirit is associated with supernatural, divine power with which the Saints are to live and function in their Messianic calling, in view of the whole earth. [See: Luke 4:14; 10:38; 24:49; Rom. 15:13; 1 Cor. 2:4; Eph. 3:16; Heb. 4:6.]
It would profit withal if every Messianic Believer would examine their faith, and discover to what extent their religion: (1) is based upon Holy Spirit visitation/activity and, (2) imbibes of or remains under His revolutionary, radical renewal power.
Next week will discuss the Holy Spirit and the Old Testament prophets.
Knowing His Voice/Being Led by the Spirit
"Pharaoh said to Joseph, I have had a dream, but no one can interpret it...Joseph then answered Pharaoh saying, it is not me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer...God hath told Pharaoh what He is about to do" (Gen. 41:15-16,25).
Joseph was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh and commenced his public ministry. It was the Spirit of Elohim Who gave him the faith and inspiration to declare the interpretation for the dreams, and the courage and wit to make appropriate recommendations before Pharaoh. He would not have ventured (with any hope) into the palace on such a mission if YHVH had not been with him. He stood before the court, responded promptly to the request of the monarch, trusted His Elohim, and perceived the meaning of the dreams as it was imparted into his mind by the Spirit. The hearing/accurately perceiving of and reacting to the word/voice of YHVH, by faith, made the difference between victory or failure.
YHVH breathed into Adam the Spirit of life and he became a living soul, an Elohim-conscious, self-aware human being. His spirit was that part of him that was united with, and one with, YHVH, his Creator. It was eternal, like YHVH Himself. Today, the Holy Spirit leads regenerated, Spirit-indwelt Believers through their recreated, divinely anointed spirits. This is where He bears witness with us [some call this intuition], and speaks to us with His still small voice, and through which our souls receive/hear/pick up the Spirit's voice/word and discern the impression. But the soul is the seat of the intellect, emotions, and will ("wanter") and as such is spiritually unreliable, and needs sanctification and training. It is easily manipulated by the sinful nature and also various other inner and outer stimuli, and therefore must be regularly exercised and renewed by the Word and ministry of the Spirit to effectively perceive, discern and obey His voice/leading. Good hearing, understanding, and responding to His voice/word...and sweet communion with the Spirit of Elohim, are interrelated, even synonymous.
Hearing the Voice/Word through the communion of the Spirit.
"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ , and the love of God [the Father, Abba], and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen" (2 Cor. 13:14).
Elohim in His fullness is represented in this full, apostolic benediction which Paul bestowed upon the Corinthian Ecclesia after correcting them in the stern letter. The troubled congregation seemed to have improved its spiritual condition, benefiting especially from its renewed obedience to authority and liberality in giving, and settled down after profiting from the Apostle's letter and visit. Let us examine the rich blessings which Paul commended upon the Corinthians, and set our hearts upon them.
First, a true blessing is not comprised of (does not invoke) earthly, carnal enjoyment or even human friendship. Rather, it promotes the higher, more noble and sublime benefits of the soul and invokes (extols and petitions, appeals, solicits) life-enriching, spiritual blessings only YHVH can provide. Secondly, a true blessing will embody a consciousness (an appreciation, awareness) of the value/significance of divine fellowship and commend heavenly revelation and blessed visitation upon the recipient. This Paul did. The "grace of our Lord Jesus Christ" refers to Yeshua's favor, and everything that His favor could possibly involve and embrace. "The love of God" would be the riches of YHVH's divine love (the Father's love) and all that revelation brings forth in one's life, which is the Believer's portion. And, "...the communion of the Holy Spirit" which means: intimate fellowship, rapport, mutual participation and cooperation, experiencing His life. Further, union of the Believer and the Holy Spirit imparts an enlightening revelation and growing awareness of (1) the living reality of Yeshua and (2) the Father's love. Life-changing! Amazing! But all this, along with sanctification, perception of truth, preservation in time of peril, comfort, victory, empowerment to witness, and more, are completely dependent upon our participation in the communion of the Holy Spirit and submission to His voice.
Paul prayed for the Corinthians, and by way of them, us, that the experience of the fullest measure this blessing (appeal to YHVH) "be with you all." The benediction is for all Believers. Trust the Son. Partake of the available communion/communication with the eternal Spirit. Obey Him, and do not minimize, quench, grieve, or ignore Him. Here is the point: In this life, here on earth, the Holy Spirit is the only One with Whom you can have regular, daily, conscious, communion and fellowship. All we receive from heaven in this life is from, by, and of the Spirit of Elohim. Abba is on the Throne of Grace and Yeshua has completed His work and is at the Right Hand of Glory. Apart from unusual visitations, visions, and/or translations, we have our fellowship with the Spirit, Who was sent to magnify the Son, and empower and bring the Bride (His followers, those who emulate His words) to a state of readiness, in Word and in Spirit, for Her coming Bridegroom. The Hebrew roots movement is an important, current end-times aspect of that preparation.
Pre-requisite in welcoming the Spirit's leadership is to remember and adhere to Yeshua teaching. "...the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life" (John 6:63). Therefore, the first benefit I want to discuss (others will follow next week) resulting from the "communion of the Spirit" is hearing Him bring the precious, faith-inducing words of Messiah to our minds and hearts again. "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 [re-communicate directly, or by renewal/enlargement of memory], whatsoever I have said unto you" (John 14:26).
Listen to the Spirit. As the Son revealed the Father, likewise the mission of the Holy Spirit is to reveal and magnify the Son, Yeshua, and renew His words of Spirit and life. The Spirit's education ministry is two-fold, therefore. First, He teaches new truth [See: Galatians 1], and brings revelation. Secondly, He brings all truth, from the Torah right through to the Apostolic Scriptures, to remembrance and illumination. In this way He renews faith, convicts and corrects, provides guidance, and prepares us as disciples of the Messiah. The words of Yeshua (Who is the living Torah) provide the foundation for His operation with the New Covenant Ecclesia.
In the next few weeks we will to discuss further (1) what the "communion of the Spirit" is, (2) how to enter into and remain in that communion, and (3) what His voice/word speaks into us via the communion of the Spirit; that is, how we benefit.
Weekly Parsha Commentary Study: Miketz "At the end of"
"Give diligence to present yourself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not be ashamed...(2 Tim. 2:15).
The Word of God is our one interest, and our one weapon. We must learn it--as an infantry man would his rifle--in order to employ it in the warfare of restoration, and to the welfare of our souls, and those of men. We must be discerning, able also to use the Word for the feeding of babes or for the strengthening of spiritually mature men and women. Neither do we want to wander, due to a lack of knowledge, to this or that side of the pathway of truth, but instead be equipped to walk a straight and true course. The operative word in the verse is "workman". Don't be fooled. Discipleship is work.
"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my feet. I have sworn and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments" (Psalm 119:133-134).
The parsha's study Scriptures and the eight questions are (1) the heart of the commentary study, (2) the intended, primary practice exercise for listening to and hearing the voice of Elohim, and as such is (3) the means of receiving personal instruction and confirmation directly from the Spirit of Truth concerning the students' biblical Israelite identity, birthright, calling, duty, destiny, direction, and personal leading.
Genesis 41:1- 44:17. [Torah]: Pharaoh's dreams/Joseph's interpretation/Joseph as viceroy of Egypt/Manasseh and Ephraim/Famine/Joseph's brothers/Judah protects Benjamin/Brothers tested.
1 Kings 3:15-4:1. [Haftorah]: Read and relate Solomon's dreams with the Torah reading/portion.
1 Cor. 2:1-5. [New Testament]: Reliance on the Spirit and His divine voice and supernatural anointing, gifts, leading. "As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God" (Romans 8:14).
Matthew 21 and 22. [Gospels]: In all circumstances honor Yeshua and His Word. How does the Torah portion relate/connect to the Gospels and Messiah?
Study Questions: Keep these questions in mind as you read the assigned Scriptures, and ask Elohim to give you new, fresh perspectives/insights for every one of them this week.
1. In your opinion, what is the major 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 it.
5. Relate the entire parsha's main idea/theme with the assigned Gospel reading. How does Yeshua reflect/demonstrate your central truth?
6. What does this week's parsha teach you concerning your Israelite/Hebraic: a. identity, b. birthright, c. heritage, d. destiny, and e. duty?
7. Did the Spirit of Truth (John 14:15-18) anoint and teach you this week? How?
8. Did you experience intimacy/closeness with Yeshua this week in study? Use your notebook.
Prayer Questions:
A. Did you experience/encounter Yeshua's manifest presence this week during prayer and worship, as you ministered unto Him? B. Did you hear the word/voice of the Spirit? How? C. Do you believe your senses are being conditioned/exercised, more now than before, to discern His voice? D. Have you been able to meet with others this week to pray, and to practice recognizing and operating in the gifts of the Spirit, such as prophecy, tongues and interpretation? What were the results?
Israel
"And their father Israel said unto them, if so be this; take of the best fruits of the land in your vessels and carry down the man a present" (Gen. 43:11).
The "best fruits of the land" can be read as "the song of the land", that which comes forth from the earth and satiates the appetite, satisfies the need, and rejoices the soul. Agricultural bounty has always been a sign of God's favor and a cause for celebration. But when Jacob said, "take of the best...and carry down the man a present", the region including Canaan, Arabia, and Egypt was suffering under a harsh drought, rain was sorely needed, food had become scarce, and costly. It was a sign of judgment. Yet Jacob, for the sake of his family and their projected needs, gathered a generous offering, a first-fruits gift, to sow into the authority of Egypt in hopes of mollifying the Viceroy's sternness, appeasing him, and gaining favor and a welcomed entry to the land. The same scheme/gesture had worked years earlier with Esau.
Jacob, in his journey from exile to settling in Bethel, had benefited by the grace that comes from the practice of giving. Accordingly, Scripture exhorts all Believers to generosity. It is a very practical way to share YHVH's love, and remains always an endearing and very attractive character trait for disciples of Yeshua. Read along.
"Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the first fruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine" (Prov. 3:9-10). This is an exhortation for using one's wealth for YHVH's service. The promise that follows is a powerful encouragement. Giving is not an invitation to selfish gain, but is really a spiritual exercise, a trial of faith. You reap (1) what you sow, (2) in His ordained season, and (3) in greater quantity that what was sowed.
"He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor" (Prov. 22:9). The "bountiful eye" refers to the kindly, benevolent person, in contrast to the "evil eye", or the selfish, unpleasant, un-sharing fellow. YHVH's blessing is always the result/outcome of generosity with one's resources and times. Let's go a little further.
"Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be neat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts [YHVH Tsebaoth], if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it" (Malachi 3:10-11). Without a commitment to the tithe, it is very unlikely that a person will ever arrive at their spiritual potential on earth. Tithing is the first and most effectual means of growing in faith and accumulating testimonies of YHVH's faithfulness. It is a blessed practice. [Note: Open windows allow in much light and wind, illumination and refreshing breezes, from different directions and angles. Please think about the spiritual implications.]
"Give [cheerfully, and in faith], and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that you mete [give] withal it shall be measured to you again" (Luke 6:38). An expansive, generous heart is usually the one that the most susceptible/open/sensitive to revelation and revival moves of the Spirit. Should not all returning Israelites generously support their ancient family, Judah and his companions, and land of Israel?
In the fore-knowledge and providential working of Elohim, Jacob sowed a costly gift and then his family into Egypt. He ended up (even in a drought and famine) reaping prosperity, peace, and protection for his house, and in his retirement years, grandchildren and great grand children in abundance to occupy his lap.
As it was in the latter years of Jacob, the land of Israel, during the Diaspora and before statehood, remained mostly barren, uncultivated, and not very fruitful. Since statehood in 1948 the dry and unproductive areas have been cultivated and the land prospers agriculturally. Thus the land of Israel has become as diverse as its population, is now very hospitable, and offers travelers a host of possible interests. There are mountains on which one may ski, and not far from them is the Mediterranean Sea, or the Red Sea (the Gulf of Eilat) where water sports and scuba are popular. There is desert land not far from fertile fields. Tel Aviv, being on the coast, is humid (as is Tiberias on the banks of the Galilee) but only one hour away by car is Jerusalem, which is elevated and dry.
Latter Days
"And he lifted up his eyes, and saw his brother Benjamin, his mother's son, and said, is this your younger brother, of whom ye spoke unto me? And he said, God be gracious unto thee, my son" (Gen. 43:29).
Joseph entertained his self-conscious, ill-at-ease brothers, and had them sit according to their birth order as he provided generously for them. As they ate, conversing became more relaxed, and the brethren began to actually enjoy one another, for "the men marvelled [became astonished, filled with surprise] at one another" as there became apparent among them rising sentiments of cheer and happy comradery, which heretofore had been an unfamiliar experience to Jacob's flock. The process of restoration of the house of Jacob had begun. It is a picture of the Millennium when both houses of Israel, all twelve tribes, will finally be recognized, reconciled, reunited and rejoicing with hilarity together in the Messianic kingdom.
"The Lord shall save the tents of Judah first, that the glory of the house of David and the glory of the inhabitants of Jerusalem do not magnify themselves against Judah" (Zech. 12:7).
In chapter twelve the prophet Zechariah announced the looming conflict between Judah and heathen powers, and that hostile nations/armies that gather against Jerusalem will be destroyed, but those who trust YHVH will overcome all opposition. [This principle holds true for us today as well.] Elohim declared that the exposed and weak villages, which were not large, manned, or walled like Jerusalem, would be fortified by the Almighty first and given mastery over the encroaching enemy even before it arrived at the holy city. The message intended is that victory is won by Elohim alone, and from it He only will get the glory, but all alike will have a part and share in it.
Zechariah 12:7 finds another fulfillment many centuries later. Judah, after the house of Ephraim/Israel had long been scattered and lost, went also into dispersion, called the Diaspora. When the time of the restoration of Israel came, the Jews were the Israelites who were preserved, called, fortified, and assisted by the Spirit to pioneer, conquer, settle and develop the Promised Land again. Powers of darkness had invaded, and had tried to prevent the revitalization and rebirth of Israel from the dispersion, and thereby prevent the fulfillment of end-time prophecies requisite for the coming of Yeshua, but had failed. "The Lord shall save [restore, revitalize, redeem, return] the tents of Judah first..." Judah, the recognizable, Torah preserving house of Israel was the divinely empowered agent whose little settlements [tents] were called [saved] first to re-occupy and settle the ancient land.
"...return thou backsliding Israel, saith the Lord...only acknowledge thine iniquity...turn , O backsliding children, saith the Lord; for I am married unto you, and I will take you one of a city and two of a family, and I will ring you to Zion" (Jer.3:11-14).
Zionist Ephraim has supported Judah in his undertaking and will return and reunite with Judah in the last days.
"And I will strengthen the house of Judah, and I will save the house of Joseph...and they of Ephraim shall be like a mighty man, and their heart shall rejoice as through wine; yea their children shall see it, and be glad, and their heart shall rejoice in the Lord" (Zech. 10:6-7).
The Holy One of Israel is here proclaiming wonderful news for all of us, Judah and Ephraim, and all Israel. It is that the prophesied strengthening and uplifting of Judah and Ephraim will be: (1) Real. "I will strengthen." (2) Universal. The promise embraces both Judah and Joseph, the long-divided and rival leading families of Jacob. (3) Complete. The dual action, "strengthen" and "save", indicates an up-building and renewal so powerful and effectual that the debilitating memories and influences of both their pasts will be completely obliterated and forgotten. "They shall be as I had not cast them off." (4) Blessed. "Wine" speaks clearly of causing rejoicing and uninhibited exhilaration, assurance and joy. (5) Permanent. Their "children shall see it" reveals the restoration of YHVH flows down generational lines. Expect challenges as you walk in renewal, but good things will continually transpire for you.
The promises of our Elohim will come to fruition in His time. Although we do not know the day or hour the restoration of all things spoken of by the holy prophets will be completed, we can observe the fulfillment of prophecies that indicate His coming draws nigh. We are born-again followers of Yeshua, the only begotten Son of Elohim, and believe He is coming again to judge the living and the dead. If we (1) daily pick up our crosses and deny ours carnal drives, (2) are willing to lay down our lives for Him, (3) have faith to endure persecution and tribulation--and all this while still live over-coming, contented and abundant lives--we therefore (4) have no critical need to know precisely when He returns and wraps up Israel's Kingdom restoration. We will always be prepared and watching, with our lamps lit and filled with holy oil, ready for His appearing.
Bless the Land
1. Pray for Israel.
Distractions and problems continually arise in Israel that occupy, diffuse or divert IDF defensive resources. Over the past week, the Israeli Defensive Force has reduced its anti-terrorism activities in Judea and Samaria because its soldiers are busy helping enforce the moratorium on Jewish construction in the region.
2. Pray for America.
For over two decades al-Qaeda has aimed its terrorist activities against the west. Today, investigators and terrorism experts point to dangers posed by the extensive and sophisticated network of terrorist recruiters working through the internet. Recruitment world-wide has become WEB-based, as applicants try to gain quick recognition, via the internet, and thus gain access to al-Qaeda training camps.
3. Sing the New Song/Song of the Lord [Exhortation and Teaching]
"And he washed his face, and went out, and refrained himself, and said, set on bread [provide the meal]" (Gen. 43:31).
Joseph had experienced emotional upheaval in meeting with his estranged brothers, and had spent time weeping uncontrollably as years of resentment and sadness conflicted with joy, and overflowed his soul with bittersweet emotions. [Note: Joseph was human, and therein he illustrated that true faith in YHVH does not suppress one's humanness, but instead produces, refines, and brings forth what are the best and most noble qualities of a person, i.e. the fruit of the Spirit. Men demonstrate humility and love toward YHVH only to the extent they exhibit such endowments (which are matured by time) toward others.] Later, when he was recovered, he returned to eat with them. Elohim was not uncaring or trifling with Joseph's emotions in the unfolding events. He was however working out His divine, far-reaching plan for Jacob and his entire family to be settled and protected in Egypt, where they could be secure for centuries from invading armies, delivered from famine, pass through a period of trial in the house of bondage, multiply descendants, and grow into a nation.
The Song of the Lord is often associated in Scripture with deliverance, and, as such, has been referred to as a song of deliverance. Deliverance, of course, is a subject much revisited in the history of Israel, and will be visited again in the times ahead. It is wise to become familiar with it, therefore.
"Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah (Psalm 32:7). This psalm is regarded as one of the seven penitential psalms, and traditionally forms a part of the synagogue service on the Day of Atonement. But it is a jubilant song as well. "Songs of deliverance" are the songs Believers (then and now) sing forth joyfully proclaiming wonderful divine deliverances from destruction and danger. Songs of deliverance (1) can be songs of faith that boldly declare YHVH's promises in the midst of trial or conflict, that wield the Sword of the Spirit against the enemy and "call the things that are not as though they are." "Faith is...the evidence of things not seen..." (Heb.11:1). They are also (2) songs extolling past victories, and that build faith, inspire vision, and galvanize action as they resound in the ears, minds and hearts of the hearers. They are inspired by heaven, and (3) have been sung in congregations, in their various forms, encouraging and reminding the Saints of Elohim's power and faithfulness for centuries, thereby enriching spiritual life.
"He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. He hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord" (Psalm 40:2-3). Here the psalmist praises and gives thanksgiving to YHVH for a great deliverance. He had been brought out of a pit of tumult and misery, and out of a situation so grim that it is compared to the horrible muck found at the bottom of a filthy cistern. He rejoices that his feet are on solid ground, his stepping has been made sure, he is saved from calamity, and forgiven. Such a profound deliverance opens widely the human heart to Elohim, making it grateful, sensitive and receptive to divinely given grace, and inspires thanksgiving and exuberant praise. They that hear the song extolling the deliverances of the Almighty for His people will hear, be given hope, and have strengthened faith for their challenges too.
The Song of Deliverance, by virtue of its nature, releases deliverance to all Israel. Remember your salvation, and lift up your own voice this week and sing, like a psalmist, an inspired new song about your own deliverance from the hands of your enemies by the supernatural might of Elohim's Spirit. Use one of the songs listed below if you'd like. May your declaration (1) encourage your heart, (2) cause the enemy to depart [See: Mt. 4:1-8], and (3) be sung for someone to hear, and then from it take hope
.
[Note: Speaking the Word, which is using the sword of the Spirit, is utilizing a part of the disciples' armor as commended by Paul in Ephesians, chapter six. This is expected of us. Yeshua resisted the Devil's temptations three times by openly speaking the Word of Elohim. In that way, Satan was denied, defeated and left the scene. The open declaration of the Word of Elohim (enforcing His edicts, binding the enemy) resulted in (1) deliverance from the revolting arrogant and presumptuous challenge of sin drawing so close in the person of Satan, and (2) rest from the assault. Go and do (by speaking, or even singing) likewise.]
Songs of deliverance are inspired new songs, and include: The Song of Moses (Ex. 15:1-3), the Song of Deborah and Barak (Jud. 5:1), and David's song to Saul (1 Sam. 16:14-23).
"So shall my word be which goeth forth out of my mouth; it shall not return to me void (empty), but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I send it" (Isa. 55:11).
Conclusion
"And they sat before him, the firstborn according to his birthright, and the youngest according to his youth: and the men marveled at one another" (Gen. 43:33).
The last time the brothers had looked upon Joseph was when he was bound by ropes, and being pulled along by a Midianite camel toward Egypt. But years later in an Egyptian palace, when looking upon him, the same brothers did not recognize him at all. Joseph, by faithfully acknowledging YHVH's presence and authority in his life, was able to go from one extreme to the other, and be transformed in the journey, as YHVH had (also) faithfully worked all events and conditions together to establish His purposes, and for Joseph's (and ultimately Israel's) good.
New Covenant Living
"Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me" (Ps. 119:133).
Joseph was able to overcome adversity and survived his exile by his adherence to the Torah instruction that he had received from Jacob, his father, which imparted to him spiritual truth, inspiration, and faith. ["The Lord was with him" because Joseph learned and remained on the Almighty's pathways.] A lesson that we grafted-in, returning Israelites glean from the week's reading is understanding the importance of uniting together our personal interests with the greater, more expansive, eternal interests and purposes of Elohim in restoring the kingdom to Israel. Personal and family life that is founded squarely upon the teachings (solid foundations for the future) and prophecies (dependable forecasts for the future) of Holy Scripture will assure His favor and blessing upon their lives and industries, for His glory and the general welfare of men.
"But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you, and keep you from evil" (2 Thess. 3:3).
Complete the Study and Prayer Questions.
Hutch Church, D. Min.
To be continued.
BLESS THE LAND
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