Parsha - Va Yikra

BLESS THE LAND

PARSHA COMMENTARY

Parsha Commentary Study

Va Yikra "And he called"

Bless the Land

Hutch Church

March, 2010

Torah: Leviticus 1:1-6:7 (5:26)

Haftorah: Isaiah 43:21-44:23

Sugg. N.T.: Hebrews 10:1-18

Gospels/Acts: Luke 1-3

Welcome: "To those who reside as aliens [strangers], scattered...who are chosen [elected for the blessings of salvation (Rom. 8:28-30; Eph. 1:4,5,11; 2 Thess. 2:13; 2 Tim. 1:2-9)] according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Yeshua HaMashiach and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure" (1 Peter 1:1-2). In one sense, all Believers are part of the dispersion, since Scripture regards us as "strangers and pilgrims on the earth" (Heb. 11:13). Thus, we are in the world, but not of the world. Therefore, live a consecrated life, and remain within the sphere of the Holy Spirit's power and blessed influence. Our benefits: "Grace and peace... in the fullest measure."

Introduction to Va Yikra "And he called"

Last week: "Thus Moses finished the work. Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle" (Ex. 40:33-34).

In the second half of Exodus much information is given concerning the Sanctuary, its construction, assembly, priesthood, and final consecration by the cloud of YHVH's glory coming upon it, and endorsing its integrity. Thus, the long-awaited service of the Tabernacle commenced with YHVH making His presence known. When He took His place amidst the Cherubim on the Mercy Seat of the Ark, the Tabernacle was officially opened for the holy business between YHVH and Israel. More precise directions for worship and service would be provided in Leviticus.

This week: "Then the Lord called to Moses and spoke to him from the tent of meeting, saying, Speak to the sons of Israel and say to them, When any man of you brings an offering to the Lord, you shall bring your offering of animals from the herd or the flock" (Leviticus 1:2).

Leviticus is called the Book of Approach, or the Book of Worship. It derives its name from its pertinence to the tribe of Levi. It instructs the Levites and Priests concerning services and offerings, times and seasons. Leviticus teaches us that the approach to the Almighty, Who is holy, is only through a (1) mediating priest and (2) offering an innocent blood-sacrifice. In this third book of the Torah, Yeshua is seen as : Our Sacrifice (Heb. 10:12); our holy High Priest (Heb. 7:26); making Atonement with His Blood for our sin (Heb. 9:14); and our Way of Approach to Abba (Heb. 7:25).

Va Yikra means "and he called." Leviticus opens with Elohim calling Moses and speaking to him about the laws and regulations that will govern the sacrifices and oblations which are the central feature of the Tabernacle service. There were five basic offerings. The first offering, or korban, was the burnt offering. "If his offering is a burnt offering from the herd, he shall offer it, a male without defect; he shall offer it at the doorway of the tent of meeting, that he may be accepted before the Lord" (Lev. 1:3). This particular korban was called the olah, or "ascending offering", and it could be either a sheep or a goat without blemish. It was sent up/raised to God by the fire on His Brazen Altar. The animal was completely consumed in the flames. The burnt offering typified the entire self surrender of Messiah Yeshua to His Father's will, and it is also a call for the voluntary surrender of our entire lives to His will. From the burnt offering we learn to give the best/all of what we have, not just the leftovers, to the service of YHVH.

The second offering was the meal offering. "Now when anyone presents a grain offering as a offering to the Lord, his offering shall be of fine flour, and he shall pour oil on it and put frankincense on it" (Ex. 2:1). The meal offering, menachat ("gifts"), consisted of flour, olive oil, and frankincense. It was burned (cooked) on the altar and eaten by the priests. There were five types of meal offerings: (1) the standard cake, (2) that which was baked in a loaf form, (3) that which was baked flat-matzot, (4) the pan fried type, (5) and the deep fried, or minchat marcheset.

The grain/meal offering was salted, but did not contain any leaven, a type of sin. [Note: There are the leaven of pride (1 Cor. 5:6); of hypocrisy (Luke 12:1); of sin (1 Cor. 5:7-8); of false teaching (Gal. 5:9); and of self-indulgence (Mark 8:15).] As such, it was representative of Messiah, Who was "...in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin" (Heb. 4:15). Bread/flour is regarded as the staff of life. So is Messiah, who said, "I am the bread of life" John 6:35). Oil was poured upon the flour, symbolizing Messiah's anointing by the Spirit, which was without measure (John 3:34). Frankincense was also added, which is associated with the Bridegroom in Solomon's Song of Songs, and speaks of perfection and sweetness of Yeshua's character. There, the Bridegroom is seen as coming out of the wilderness "like pillars of smoke" (Shechinah glory) and perfumed "with myrrh and frankincense..." (Song 3:6). Frankincense spoke of the sweet aroma of Yeshua's sanctification and obedience to the Father, His Abba. Learn: We are to be like Him, with His glory on us and His character forming within us. Mixing holy truth with what is false and unholy [leaven] is an abomination. Only the returning Believer, the minister of His Word, who is sanctified and walks in His truth, is "unto God a sweet savour [aroma] of Christ" (2 Cor. 2:15).

The third offering was the peace offering, or shelamim. "And if his oblation be a sacrifice of peace offering, if he offer it of the herd; whether male or female, he shall offer it without blemish before the Lord" (Lev. 3:1). It could be either a male or a female from the herd, along with unleavened cakes. It's blood was sprinkled on the altar, but the peace offering was not entirely consumed by the fire, only a portion. The rest was eaten by the owner and the priests. It did not necessarily denote devotion or homage as did the first two offerings, but was a feast of which both man and YHVH (as represented by His priest) partook, and as such represented the joy and blessing of communion between God and man. It also speaks of the oneness and supreme delight the Father and Son share with one another. The peace offering was one of fellowship, and teaches that faith in Yeshua, and the consecration of ourselves to Him, pleases Him and opens the way for peace, unity and fellowship. "That they all may be one; as thou Father, art in me and I in thee, that they also may be one in us" (John 17:21).

The fourth offering was the sin offering, or chatat. "...then let him bring for his sin , which he hath sinned, a young bullock without blemish unto the Lord for a sin offering" (Lev. 4:3). The first three Korbanot (offerings) were donations of pledges, offerings that were voluntary and given from a desire to honor and please YHVH. The sin offering was obligatory, and could be given by a person or group. It effected the forgiveness of sin and the cleansing of its pollution. Both the High Priest and the congregation required a male bullock for a sin offering. With other sin offerings, female sheep or goats, or even turtledoves could be used, depending on the finances of the person. The sin offering signifies and effects propitiation (an atoning sacrifice) for each person, "for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God" (Rom. 3:23). Yeshua is the Representative of sinful man and our substitute, our sin offering. He bore the penalty for our transgressions in Gethsemane, at the whipping post, and on the cross. Thus, by His atonement and resurrection He has restored peace and communion between man and Elohim, and provided for the Believer eternal life, healing and restoration for spirit, soul, and body! "Daughter, be of good comfort, thy faith hath made thee whole" (Mt. 922).

The fifth offering was the guilt, or trespass offering. It was called asham. "And if a soul sin, and hear the voice of swearing...or swear...when he shall be guilty of one of these things...he shall bring his trespass offering" (Lev. 5:1-6). Male sheep, worth at least two silver shekels, were required for the guilt offering. This offering was made necessary by certain transgressions of which there were three categories: (1) Me'illah, or betrayel. (2) talu, or transgressions, particularly in misuse of Tabernacle/Temple items or offerings. (3) False swearing, extortion; lying for one's advantage.

The number and variety of the offerings were necessary to represent the great, multi-faceted subject of atonement in all its different divine and human aspects. One sacrifice could never have embodied all the types and shadows necessary to reveal Yeshua properly, Who made "His soul [asham] a trespass offering" (Isa.53:10). All five Old Testament sacrifices, with their inclusions and procedures, represented and pointed to the complete, all-encompassing, once-for-all atonement made by our Redeemer, the Lamb of YHVH, Messiah Yeshua of Nazareth, Who was to come. For "In Him we have redemption through His Blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses..." (Eph. 1:7).

Some lessons from Va Yikra: First, the five offerings more fully reveal the Tabernacle's sacrificial order. Secondly, they represent the Person and ministry of Yeshua. Thirdly, the five offerings (as well as the consecration of the priests) teach and inspire Yeshua's disciples toward the blessings of complete self-surrender to YHVH's will. Fourthly, the offerings point to the essence of an overcoming life, which is one that demonstrates service and love for the brethren. "Walk in love, as Messiah also loved us, and gave Himself for us an offering and sacrifice..." (Eph. 5:2).

Knowing the Holy Spirit/Ruach HaKodesh

"But if He be not able to bring two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, then he that sinned shall bring for his offering the tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a sin offering; he shall put no oil upon it, neither shall he put any frankincense thereon: for it is a sin offering" (Lev. 5:11).

Propitiation [appeasement; atonement; something that propitiates, i.e. an atoning sacrifice] was, and is, offered to all without respect of persons, their station, nationality, or wealth. The non-bloody flour offering was accepted only as an exception for the very poor and ignorant. The rule did not invalidate the Torah's universal law that without shed blood there is no remission of sin. All the offerings, even the flour offering, point us to the one Offering that all men of every race and status may plead, the one Sacrifice that is all-sufficient and that has been presented once for all: Yeshua, the Lamb of Elohim, "...Who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29). See also: Rom. 6:10; Heb. 9:28; 1 Pet. 3:18

"In His love and in His mercy He redeemed them, and He lifted them and carried them in days of old" (Isaiah 63:9). Of all the peoples of the ancient world, the people of Israel were the recipients of YHVH's love and compassions, yet they have a history of resisting the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of holiness, Who faithfully strived with them. However our divine Example is not Israel, but the Savior Who is mighty to save, Who was/is the divine, perfect, quintessential Israelite, and He did not resist or quench the Spirit of holiness. "...and behold, the heavens were opened, and He saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and coming upon Him" (Mt. 3:16). Yehsua never grieved the Spirit, but depended upon Him, and always yielded to Him. He "was [willingly] led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil" (Mt. 4:1). The Spirit revealed to the Messiah the words and the will of the Father on a moment-by-moment basis, and empowered Him to act. "Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing" (John 19-23). Yeshua submited to the Holy Spirit and unlike Israel of old, was perpetually and forever victorious in His confrontations with temptation and evil.

Late in His ministry, Yeshua exhorted His troubled disciples during the Last Supper, and explained the role of the Holy Spirit Who would be given to them. "I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper [Paracletos], that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him, but you know Him, because He abides with you, and shall be in you" (John 14:16-17).

The designation of the Holy Spirit as "another Comforter" brings several things to our attention that greatly encourage us to receive with thanksgiving the gift of the Spirit. First, There is something in the nature and environment of mankind that makes the prospect of a personal "comforter", a Divine Friend and Companion, very appropriate and inviting. We have frail and easily provoked natures which are surrounded by temptations, and that act powerfully and negatively upon us. Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, and who strive for holy truth and godly virtue are constantly set against by the hostilities and oppositions of the current, anti-Messiah world. We need the Comforter to encourage, teach, exhort, direct, and counsel us at every turn. Secondly, the Comforter, the Spirit of truth, undertakes the role of an Advocate, the Great Strengthener who comes alongside the defenseless patron and imparts wisdom, protection, and power to the weak and feeble. The Holy Spirit is divine, living, active, and gracious. He guides, teaches, and directs. He came on the day of Pentecost in power to be the "acting Lord" of the Kahal/Ecclesia until the coming of Messiah. We cannot ignore Him! We limit Him to our own peril and short-coming. Thirdly, the promise of the Spirit suggests that He is uniquely qualified for the conditions of redeemed mankind. The ministry of Yeshua was restricted to one land, Israel. He ministered to one person at a time. The presence and ministry of the Holy Spirit is felt and experienced wherever the Gospel is preached, and in every "Believer society." Further, the ministry of Yeshua lasted only several years, but the presence and mission of the Spirit, the Comforter, is at once world-wide and lasts forever. Whenever and wherever any person, by real need or from the urge of faith, calls out to Yeshua, the Spirit of might, wisdom, and compassion is already there to prove Himself as their Comforter, and reveal Messiah. This is why Yeshua said to His followers, "But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Himto you" (John 16:7).

The Master has given us His mantle. "... you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you" (1 Peter 4:14). This is your reason to rejoice and be glad. Make room for Him. Let Him comfort, help, befriend, accompany, counsel, and empower you this week.

Hearing His Voice/Being Led by the Spirit

"Then the Lord called to Moses and spoke to him from the tent of meeting..." (Lev. 1:1).

The Hebrew structure of the Hebrew word called, which ends with the letter aleph, indicates that YHVH wanted to speak to Moses, and purposely called him in an affectionate manner. YHVH's prophetic call to Balaam (Numbers 23:16), on the other hand, was introduced without the ending aleph, changing the connotation of the summons to indicate chance and spiritual contamination (1 Samuel 20:26). The remez implication is that when Elohim spoke to Balaam, He did not do so lovingly, or with affection.

A common manner in which YHVH spoke to, or communicated with, His prophets of old was by way of dreams and visions. However, this was not the way He spoke to Moses. In Numbers 12:8 we read, "My servant Moses is not so, who is faithful in all mine house; with him I will speak mouth to mouth, even apparently." YHVH did not use an altered state of mind [trance; paranormal mental condition; hypnotism, etc.] to convey to Moses His Levitical laws, but spoke words to him, as you and I would talk with a friend! But again, Moses was very humble, and thereby an attentive and receptive candidate for such sacred interaction. "For the devious are an abomination to the Lord, but He is intimate with the upright [faithful]" (Prov. 3:32). Selah.

Moses knew the sound of the voice of the Holy One of Israel. We want and need to know His voice also, and thereby respond well to the leading of the Holy Spirit's leading. Still, the Almighty communicates in various ways. He spoke with a majestic voice from Mount Sinai. Elijah heard a still, small, gentile voice. In any case, He does speak clearly. His voice/word can be heard, discerned, and understood. Though spiritual sensitivity is pre-requisite, it can be developed.

Here are eight important and practical biblical steps for better positioning yourself to discern His voice and flow in prophetic ministry: (1) "He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love" (1 John 4:8). Practice walking in love. As we grow to see with His heart, so to speak, we will know His will. [See: 1 Cor. 13:1-3.] (2) "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shall meditate therein day and night..." (Joshua 1:8). Read, memorize, and store the Holy Scriptures within your heart and mind. (3) "Whoso keeps the commandment shall feel no evil thing: and a wise man's heart discerns both time and judgment" (Eccl. 8:5). Honor His pathways, and do not stray from His statutes. Obey what you read in Scriptures. In this way dullness will dissipate, and discernment will grow. Concerning this, recall Peter, who wrote to those scattered in Asia Minor, "Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls" (1Peter 1:22). There it is. If we want to be changed, we must walk in the light that we have. (4) "...the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance..." (John 14:26). Actually ask Him to bring forth Scripture to your remembrance. (5) "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally...but let him ask in faith, nothing wavering" (James 1:5-6). Pray for wisdom concerning the Scriptures He brings forth to your consciousness. (6) "But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even to those who by reason of [repeated and perseverant] use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil" (Heb. 5:14). Ask with faith for His word on specific situations. The more you persist, the more you will receive. Covet the best gifts. Desire to prophesy. [See: Mark 4:25.] (7) "That the God of our Lord Yeshua HaMashiach , the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him" (Eph. 1:17). Pray for the Holy Spirit to give you a spirit of revelation to enlighten you to the love, glory, power, and reality of Yeshua. (8) "Praise ye the Lord; for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely" (Psalm 147:1). Make absolutely no complaints, and do no murmuring. Let only praise and thanksgiving come from your mouth.

Learn from the life of Moses. Practice to hear His word with increased clarity, in whatever form it may come. Learn by exercise the difference between your thoughts and His thought. Listen to His voice in your spirit. He calls to us too.

Weekly Parsha Commentary Study: Va Yikra "And he called"

Prayer: "Open my eyes that I may behold wonderful things from your law" (Psalm 119:18).

Note: The study's scheduled Scriptures and the following eight questions are (1) the heart of the commentary study from which the readers can be most enriched, by reading and learning on their own with the assistance of the Spirit of Truth. Thus they comprise (2) the intended, primary system of practice for listening to the voice/word of Elohim, and as such are (3) an effectual exercise by which the Holy Spirit will provide prophetic insight for the student, and directly communicate to him/her personal edification and exhortation. Read the questions and keep them in mind as you study the texts.

Leviticus 1:1-6:7 (5:26) [Torah]: Moses called by YHVH/Instructions on the five classes of offerings/Offerings illustrate the consecration and atoning work of Yeshua/Burnt offering/Meal offering/Peace offering/Sin offering/Guild (trespass) offering.

Isa. 43:21-44:23 [Haftorah]: Shortcomings of Israel and blessings/Idolatry/Forgiveness and redemption/Read: Isaiah 53

Heb. 10:1-18 [New Testament]: The sufficiency of the sacrifice of Messiah Yeshua.

Luke 1-3 [Gospels]: Luke presents Yeshua as the perfect Man, and the only Savior. Among other things, this Gospel teaches that all preaching should be done in the power of the Holy Spirit. In Luke, Yeshua is seen as the perfect Son of Man, the Anointed Preacher, and Savior of lost mankind (4:18-19; 19:10).

Study Questions: Listen to the Ruach HaKodesh, and then write out your answers.

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

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

3. What similar, corresponding idea is revealed in the New Testament reading?

4. Summarize the central teaching (common 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 teach you about your Hebraic identity, birthright, heritage, destiny, duty, and the Torah?

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

8. What are the name, definition, and Torah references of this week's parsha?

Israel

"When a person sins and acts unfaithfully against the Lord, and deceives his companion...through robbery...or if he has extorted...then it shall be, when he sins and becomes guilty, that he shall restore what he took..." (Lev. 5: 21,23, or/also 6:2,4).

Dishonesty and deceitful personal and public dealings were considered as treacheries against the Most High, and were therefore forbidden in the land of Israel. If such practices were only "winked at", and left uncorrected (by remaining unpunished and not atoned for), they would expand, thrive, corrupt society, and bring a curse upon the people. Eventually such practices would produce an oligarchy, and conversely a growing class of poverty. Therefore, dishonesty and extortion had to be persistently exposed, condemned, and atoned for by a guilt offering (verse 6), that the land could prosper and the residents continue to live in peace with one another. The leaders of Israel had the great responsibility to oversee and enforce the Torah regulations. Two fundamental qualities were necessary for strong and effective leadership in Israel. They were (and are) (1) godliness and (2) courage. It's the same today for us. When these are lacking in the spiritual leadership of a nation, the people will fail. Therefore, if we want to be true priests of the New Covenant, we must walk in revealed truth, and be brave. We take our lesson from the monarchy. "These are the chief of the mighty men that David had, who gave him strong support in his kingdom..." (1Chron. 11:10). Godliness and courage, qualities found among David's mighty men, are pre-requisite for the proper discharge of priesthood functions. Look at Levi. In the days of the wilderness they were called "the host", and were conspicuous for their bravery and leadership. In David's day it appears that the Tribe of Levi volunteered to meet one of the monthly allotments of 24,000 men for military duty. In the days of the Maccabees the priesthood provided Israel with some of its noblest and godliest warriors. Unfortunately, the Law was not always honored in Israel, and so it happened as YHVH had lamented, "O My people! Their oppressors (leaders, controllers) are children, and women rule over them. O My people! Those who guide you lead you astray and confuse the direction of your paths" (Isaiah 3:12).

There are several things to consider before you continue in the section. First, one result of ungodliness in a nation is that it becomes increasingly governed by those who lack the wisdom, compassion, ability, insight, and maturity to competently rule. Next, as it was with rebellious Judah in the day of Isaiah, so it will be with every country today that turns away from truth and privilege. Finally, the people that run to wicked perversity, misbehave, and misrule will at some point be visited with the judgment of the Almighty.

Herod was the notorious governor of Galilee who came to Judah, with the support of Rome, to execute the Hasmonean leader, Antigonus. The corrupt, egomaniacal Herod was ambitious and seized control of the country by a reign of intrigue and murder. He became the vassal king (under the authority and protection) of Rome, and as such ruled over the land of Judea. Herod brooked no rivals, real or perceived, but murdered everyone who he thought might pose a threat to his rule. His list of victims includes his wife, two sons, his brother-in-law, Aristobulus (the last Hasmonean high priest), and Antipater, Herod's loyal oldest son. "A man who is laden with the guilt of human blood will be a fugitive until death [will flee to the pit at death]; let no one support him" (Prov. 28:17).

Herod is best known for the vast, expensive building program in Judea which produced forts like Masada and palaces like Herodian. He also built the seaport town of Caesarea. Most notably--to please the Jews, among whom were discontent and periodic rumblings of political revolution--Herod reconstructed and expanded the Temple complex. Once finished, it was the most magnificent structure in Israel, the Middle East, and probably the entire world. Nevertheless, Herod, and later the Temple he expanded and aggrandized, met ignominious ends.

"Like a roaring lion and a rushing bear is a wicked ruler over a poor people. A leader who is a great oppressor lacks understanding..." (Prov. 28:15-16). In the closing days of Herod's reign over Galilee and Judea, Messiah Yeshua was born in Bethlehem. And Rome ruled the known world.

Latter Days

"The priest is to take some of the blood of the sin offering with his finger and put it on the horns of the altar of burnt offering, and all the rest of its blood he shall pour out at the base of the altar" (Lev. 4:34).

In Leviticus 4:22-35 we read about the sin offering of the ruler and the people of Israel. From this we draw some lessons concerning the sin offering and communities. It must be remembered that all individuals of any nations are responsible before God for their own lives and labors. First, there are the rulers, those of elevation of rank and authority. They will be called to give an account before YHVH for the manner in which they used their authority (Prov. 8:15-16;2 Sam. 23:3). They have much influence. Matthew Henry said, "It is bad when great men give ill examples, but worse when all men follow them." Then, there are the subjects, the common people. They are to respect and uphold godly authority in righteous behavior (1 Tim. 4:1). Nobody is so small or socially unimportant as to go unnoticed by YHVH, or so insignificant as to escape His inquisition. "The eyes of the Lord are in everyplace, beholding the evil and the good" (Prov. 15:3). But in Israel rulers and subjects both failed and needed atonement. Consequently, the sin offering was provided for individuals. The rulers brought a male "kid of the goats" [signifying authority]. The common man had more latitude, and could bring either a female kid or a lamb [signifying no authority]. This indicated that, as the common Israelite had more liberty than a ruler in his sacrifice, he also had more liberty in his personal conduct. Personal freedom becomes restricted as social elevation and responsibilities increase. The differences showed that the ruler's sin was of greater consequence and seriousness that that of the common man, since the leader serves as an inspiration and example of godliness within the congregation "My brethren, be not many teachers [masters]..." (James 3:1).

With this in mind, what should we be doing in these critical latter days? It is clear that we must pray for those in authority in our own nation, and in Israel. "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceful lives in all godliness and honesty" (1 Tim. 2:1-2).

Paul gave Timothy guidelines concerning assembling for public (corporate) worship, and paramount among the instructions was the duty of public, or united, prayer. His remarks about prayer had the leading place in the series of instructions concerning the administrations of the Ecclesia, and is thus pre-eminent and worthy of attention. Let us set our hearts toward the exercise of prayer, for in it is great profit. (1) YHVH promised to answer public prayer (2 Chron. 7:14-16); (2) Messiah sanctified prayer by His presence (Matt. 18:20); (3) Believers are blessed in prayer (Ps. 42:4); (4) We are exhorted to pray (Heb. 10:25). Therefore, with such incentives assuring us, may our prayers be regular, fervent, and "made for all men" (1 Tim. 1:1-2), not just occasionally, or for only a few family members.

But, in these last days especially, prayer must made for leaders, and "for kings, and for all who are in authority" (verse 2). First, our leaders need our prayers and intercessions for several reasons: (1) Those in authority wield great power and influence, and require a steady flow of wisdom. (2) They face many dangers and job pressures. (3) They are generally subjected to more temptations than most. Secondly, we must remember the Almighty is the Source all power and is well able to persuade and influence those He puts into (or allows into) places of authority. (1) The hearts of kings are in His grasp (Prov. 21:1). (2) He sets kings and leaders up, and He also removes them (Dan. 2:21). (3) He is able to establish them in righteousness and justice (Prov. 16:12). We intercede because leaders, presidents, kings, and government officials can be led to do much to promote and maintain the well-being of the Body of Messiah in any given nation, state, or city.

Our designated duty in the latter days is to pray for kings, presidents, and leaders of all levels is not affected by, nor is it conditional upon, our personal opinion of their politics or practices. Most rulers in world history have not been attractive, selfless good guys. Yet it makes no difference whether they are pagans, heathens, oppressors, persecutors, revolutionaries, despots, or tyrants. All returning Israelite Believers, grafted in or otherwise, who are looking for the restoration of the kingdom, power, and glory of YHVH to all Israel, must pray for Elohim to direct their hearts in righteousness, "that we may lead quiet and peaceful lives in all godliness and honesty."

Yeshua said, "And I, if I be lifted up, will draw all men unto me" (John 12:32). He has called us to pray that all men and kings would be brought to the knowledge of the truth.

Bless the Land

1. Pray for Israel and Jerusalem.

"Thus the priest shall make atonement for him in regard to his sin, and he will be forgiven" (Leviticus 4:26). Yeshua, our High Priest, is our Atonement, and the mediator of the New Covenant

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first, and also to the Greek" (Rom. 1:16). Pray for the spiritual and physical welfare of the Isreali people and pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

2. Pray for America. Pray for your Nation.

"Every grain offering of yours moreover, you shall season with salt..." (Lev. 2:13). Salt speaks of loyalty and preservation. Yeshua said of us, "Ye are the salt of the earth" (Mt. 5:13). Pray.

"Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in the hand, to execute vengeance on the nations and punishment on the peoples, to bind their kings with chains and their nobles with fetters of iron, to execute on them the judgment written..." (Ps. 149:6-9). Declare His word in prayer! [Note: In the days of the Maccabees, the chasidim sang hymns and praises to YHVH as they went forth with their swords in battle after battle to execute vengeance on YHVH's enemies. Because of the threat of nearby foes, Nehemiah armed his workers-on-the-wall with swords to carry along with their construction tools. Our weapons are not carnal, but they are weapons--anointed and powerful spiritual weapons--and they are for war. Reread Ephesians 6:10-20 about the armor and the sword. We are soldiers. Singing His praises will keep us in the right spirit as we declare His word against the works of darkness.]

3. Sing the Song of the Lord. Prophetic Praise and Worship.

"...his offering shall be of fine flour, and he shall pour oil on it..." (Lev. 2:1). The meal offering was called minchah, which means "a gift made by an inferior to a superior." It is a gift of homage that promises loyal obedience. Learn: Worship begins with honoring His Word.

"The name of the second river is Gihon; it flows [is the one surrounding] around the whole land of Cush" (Gen. 2:13).

Gihon was the second river of Eden. The name also applied to a natural spring of water in the vicinity of Jerusalem that flowed into the Pool of Siloam (2 Chron. 32:30). The name Gihon means "bursting or breaking forth." The Gihon River is a type of the Holy Spirit and speaks of His anointing (1) bubbling up and bursting forth from the Bride of Messiah when she offers up the sacrifice of praise and worship. "...From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water" (John 7:37) [See also: Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2:1-4; Rev. 22:1-5.] (2) Gihon thus represents the Spirit as Israel's Source of blessed life and strength that comes from the Bridegroom, Messiah Yeshua. "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit..." (John 15:5). (3) Gihon further speaks of prophetic breakthrough in worship. The anointed worship of the sons of Israel causes the bursting forth of the divine word of exhortation and edification which brings spiritual break-through, inspires faith, and lifts Believers' souls into the glory realm of YHVH. "Then David enquired [worshiped, prayed, sought] of the Lord...and the Lord said to David, go up, for I will certainly give the Philistines into your hand" (2 Sam. 5:19). As David sought the Lord, His word broke through to David, who was lifted, encouraged, and went on to victory.

Prophetic praise and the Song of the Lord confront powers of darkness and at the same time energize the Saints. But praise is a sacrifice that requires the Believer to also confront and vanquish his own pride, fear, apathy, unbelief, worry, and anything that would interfere with his worship and quench the free-flowing, up-bubbling, and bursting forth of the Spirit. "Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips that give thanks to His name" (Heb. 13:15). Persist! A praise-filled mouth, one that is a well of life giving glory to Yeshua in all things, will (1) cultivate: devotion to Him, love for His truth, openness to the prophetic flow of the Spirit, consistent joy, and will (2) subdue: works of the flesh, and the fiery arrows of our enemy.

"The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life" (Prov. 10:11). Declare His Word and defeat darkness. Become blessed. Start now, this very moment!

Conclusion

"The sons of Aaron the priest shall put fire on the altar and arrange wood on the fire. Then Aaron's sons the priests shall arrange the pieces, the head and the suet over the wood which is on the fire that is on the altar" (Lev. 1:7-8).

The Kohen had the responsibility to keep the sacrificial fire always burning, and to add wood to the Brazen Altar's fire for the consuming of the offerings. Sages tell us that the priest's service was invalid unless he was fully and properly dressed for his sacrificial duties, even this one.

The Torah portion places before us a picture of the elaborate sacrificial system of early Israel, based on the practice initiated at the Fall. It starts with Moses calling the people to assemble for more instructions. He did not teach them about a future life, or about personal prayer, repentance and faith, but he did teach about the offerings they would bring to the Tabernacle. There are several points here worth mentioning and remembering:

First, sacrifices had been used in the pre-Moses eras as the divinely appointed means by which to approach Elohim. Abel brought the firstlings of his flock (Gen. 4:4). Noah "builded an altar...and offered burnt offering" (Gen 8:20-21; 9:8-9). In Canaan, Abraham "builded an altar unto the Lord who appeared to him" as a means of communicating with Him (Gen.12:7), and went on to build more altars and to offer sacrifices upon them (Gen. 13:18). The covenant with Abraham was established by sacrifice (Gen 15:9). At the mount of YHVH-Yirah, Abraham built an altar and "offered a ram for a burnt offering in the stead of his son" (Gen. 22:13). Isaac also "builded an altar [on which to sacrifice] and called upon the name of the Lord" (Gen. 26:25) in Beersheba. Jacob "erected an altar [for sacrifice] and called the place El-elohe-Israel" in Shalem (Gen. 35:7). At Beersheba, Jacob "offered sacrifices unto the God of his father Isaac" (Gen.44:1). In Egypt the practice of building altars and sacrificing clean animals was suspended because it offended the religious feelings of the Egyptians who worshiped animals. But the concept of the offering being the accepted, appropriate means of approaching and serving the Elohim of Israel was preserved (Ex. 5:3; 8:27). This was shown by Moses and the elders as they participated in a sacrificial meal with Jethro (Ex. 18:12). The Mosaic covenant was itself ratified by burnt and peace offerings (Ex. 24:5). For that matter, the psalmist wrote, "Gather My saints together unto Me; those that have made covenant with Me by sacrifice" (Psalm 1:5). And, Yeshua is the Mediator of the New Covenant. "...how much more will the blood of Messiah, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works [guilt] to serve the living God. For this reason He is the Mediator of a new covenant..." (Heb 9:14-15).

Secondly, there were five general classes of offerings under the Mosaic law that were essentially different in character. As stated earlier, there were the burnt offering, the peace offering, and the sin offering. There were also the meat (meal, flour) offering [making it clear that YHVH is our Source], which was associated with (attached to) the burnt offering. Finally, the trespass offering was a type, or species of, the sin offering, and was used particularly for the sins of evil speaking, cursing, lying, insincere vow-making, thoughtless words--and such things that offend YHVH and man, and ultimately weaken people and society. "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit" (Prov. 18:21). For the humble-minded, these offerings served as (1) a way of access to YHVH, and (2) a means of reconciliation between man and Him, whether or not they fully understood their prophetic meaning.

They all taught, ceremonially and symbolically, spiritual lessons to the observers and participants. The sin offering taught the need of, and effected, (1) propitiation [an atoning sacrifice] to appease Elohim's wrath and (2) expiation [an atonement of appeasement, extinguishing of guilt, payment of a penalty, amendment for offences] of man's sin. The burnt offering was offered twice daily, taught self-surrender, and effected that surrender of the presenting Israelite. The peace offering taught the people about the need and joy of communion between YHVH and man, and it symbolically represented that willing fellowship existed between the person and the Almighty.

Thirdly, the sacrifices showed that only by the shedding of blood could sin be removed. The efficacy [power to produce an effect; effectiveness] of the offerings came from representing and foreshadowing the Atonement of Yeshua, His crucifixion, burial, and bodily resurrection. The offerings vividly portray the weakness of man juxtaposed to the strength of YHVH. "...and without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness" (Heb. 9:22).

New Testament Living

"And the priest shall offer up in smoke all of it on the altar for burnt offering, an offering by fire of a soothing aroma to the Lord" (Lev. 1:9).

Once the parts of the sacrifice were arranged on the Brazen Altar, the Kohen were then responsible to add wood and daily tend the fire so all the offerings were properly consumed. Today, we are called to daily "be filled with the Spirit" (Eph. 5:18).

Moses called the people to understand the various sacrifices of the Mosaic Covenant. We learn from them that we are called to what they represent: Self-surrender, fellowship, repentance from sin and holy living. Paul tells us "...that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service" (Rom. 12:1).

The priest, or kohen, was YHVH's personal attendant. He was a person whose sole purpose was to serve the Most High, and whose entire life revolved around that service. It took two basic forms: (1) Ministry in the Tabernacle or Temple, and (2) attending to, instructing, and carrying the burden of the people (Ex. 28:29).

"But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9). He is calling Believers to return to our Israelite heritage today, which includes serving one another, and ministering directly to Him, offering up prayer and praise while in His tangible presence and manifest glory and power. Prayer and praise advance the restoration of the kingdom of Israel, and work to establish our individual destinies. Our praise is the evidence of a loving relationship existing between us and the Almighty One of Israel, Yeshua. Praise is in us by the Spirit, and we cannot stop extolling Him. Why should we? We cannot survive as His "chosen race, royal priesthood, holy nation, a people for Elohim's own possession" (1 Pet. 1:9) without rendering the sacrifices of prayer and praise. In ancient Israel the sacrifices came daily and His presence continued in the camp. Now, let our private and public sacrifices of prayer and praise rise daily before the King of Glory, that we may please Him and experience His manifest presence and power among us, filling our hearts, homes, and congregations perpetually.

Next Week: In Genesis we observed man ruined by sin. In Exodus we saw man redeemed by the blood of the Passover lamb. In Leviticus we will see man worshipping according to the ordinances and seasons of the Holy One of Israel. In the next parsha, Tzav (which means "command"), directions and regulations concerning offerings are given to the Aaronic Priesthood for them to follow precisely, leaving nothing up to human originality. We will learn why these "commands" were important then, and why they are now.

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