BLESS THE LAND
PARSHA COMMENTARY
Parsha Commentary Study
B'Shalach "When he let go"
Bless the Land
Written by Hutch Church
January, 2010
Torah: Exodus 13:17-17:16
Haftorah: Judges 4:4-5:31
Sugg. N.T.: John 6:22-40
Gospels/Acts: Mark 6
Welcome: "...to the strangers scattered [Northern Kingdom Yisraelites in exile throughout Asia Minor]...elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied" (1 Peter 1:1-2).
Learning: "Then the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, no my lord. Then he answered and spoke unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts" (Zech. 4:5-6).
Zechariah was given a vision of two olive trees and asked by the attending angel about their meaning. The prophet did not know. So, he was first told by the angel to bring a prophetic word to Zerubbabel. The two olive trees, or branches, were explained (next) as YHVH's two anointed ones ("sons of the fatness of anointing") who represent the two powers in Israel, the royal and the priestly, through which YHVH's authority and administration [oil] are dispensed
.
Zerubbabel needed an exhortation. His prescribed work load--the restoration of Jerusalem--was great and his enemies were formidable. YHVH informed and encouraged him through the prophet that the work he was called to do could not be accomplished by human means, however skilled and potent, but would only be completed by the grace of YHVH. The oil of anointing, which is the Holy Spirit working upon and through the Almighty's servants, would be sufficient.
Even the prophet Zechariah needed to be instructed, as do all of us. He illustrates that the spirit of the true learner encompasses (1) humility and (2) the love of truth. And the spirit of the learned is (A) wisdom and (B) faithfulness to all comprehended truth. And he learned also, as have we in the Hebrew roots movement, that the source of power for service is not organization, method, or education, it is YHVH only. Moral: To advance from learner to learned is wise.
Introduction to B'Shalach "When he let go"
Last week: "And the children of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Soccoth, about six hundred thousand on foot that were men, beside children. And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very much cattle" (Exodus 12:37-38).
Allowing for women, children and the elderly, about three million people--according to accepted estimates of sages and scholars--left Egypt in the Exodus miracle. Only the Almighty could handle the logistics of moving such a large population across a barren wilderness. The young nation would need faith for every step of the way. YHVH has fond memories of the early days of the journey. Read Jeremiah 2:2.
The mixed multitude would include the Egyptian (and other foreign) converts to faith in YHVH, which conversions undoubtedly occurred during the plagues. It is probable other sojourners also joined the departing mass.
This week: "And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not through the way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, Lest peradventure the people repent when they see war, and return to Egypt" (Exodus 13:17).
Parashah B'Shalach includes Israel's episode with the Red Sea, manna, the quail, and the battle with Amalek. B'Shalach means, "he let go". It's paraphrase would be, "when Pharaoh sent the people out." In the Exodus narrative, Israel had experienced the greatest supernatural exhibition of manifested, divine power in mankind's history. In this parashah the story of Israel's redemption from Egypt comes to a violent ending, a brutal conclusion. Instead (one might ask), could not a happy compromise have been eventually reached through peaceful negotiations with Pharaoh and his servants, like the kind of talks which have been going on and on in our day between Israel and the Palestinians? Absolutely not! YHVH's climatic deliverance and its corresponding message were intended to be sobering. At some point, when the cup of wickedness overflows and repentance has been repeatedly shunned, judgment comes and evil is crushed, destroyed. Compromise is the enemy of righteousness.
From Egypt, the direct path to Canaan (Eretz Israel) was north, along the Mediterranean coast, through the land of the powerful Philistines. This was the easiest way to get to Canaan, but it was also the easiest trail back to Egypt. Therefore the people of Israel were not sent in that direction, but around by the Red Sea instead. YHVH had said, "...peradventure the people repent when they see war and return to Egypt" (verse 17). Another reason for the longer route assigned by Elohim is that He intended to make a covenant with the nation, personally giving them His statutes and worship ordinances, and He wanted them to be alone with Him at the solitude of the Mountain of YHVH at Sinai for the intimate and important time. [See Exodus 3:12.] His redeemed children would therefore not be allowed to linger around the fringes of Egypt for long, or to face the aggressive, warlike Philistines. Rather, they would be turned away from the land of their servitude and press forward to Canaan. And for their own welfare, YHVH would be the expert Guide leading them, in Pillars of Fire and Cloud, along the route He had chosen. He would not pamper them. The way would be demanding and difficult, and would thus challenge their faith and courage, but His help would be sufficient.
Believers today who are returning to the Hebraic origins/Hebrew roots face challenges which will test their faith and resolve also. The journey of return to the Ecclesia's Hebraic heritage, though inspired by the Holy Spirit, is not necessarily easy. Change is required in those who travel the restoration pathway. The road of teshuvah (repentance) is the road to revival, chosen by YHVH in this latter day period for the deliverance of His people from bondage to compromise and mixture. Returning to the faith and practice of the early Apostolic Ecclesia will cause the maturing Believer to meet with challenges, resistance, and in some cases trouble. But Abba knows our frames, and the difficulties and trials we are able to endure. Consequently, He will lead us on a guarded route which will prove our faith, conviction, and courage, but will also transform us along the way into His likeness. [Note: Teshuvah is the Hebrew term for "repentance", and it means--to stop what you're doing, turn around, retrace your steps, and go all the way to the beginning, the place you were before you strayed! True teshuvah is the return of a Believer to the place of Elohim's greatest life, holiness, and blessing, the place where one is fully revived. Yeshua, by the power of the Spirit, has His Redeemed Congregation on the "Road of Return to Life" In the present moment, He has us moving into the restoration of Spirit and Truth for the restoration of all Israel and the preparation of His Bride for His appearance.]
YHVH's power and grace are revealed on behalf of those who believe and obey His Word. In this part of the Exodus story His mighty Presence, in the Pillar of Cloud and Fire, embarks in bringing the delivered Israelites away from Egypt and into the Sinai and to the Mosaic Covenant, the marriage contract with Israel. We learn from early Israel to trust the Eternal One to guide us, and to yield ourselves completely to His omniscient, loving leadership if we want to enter into our rest. The Holy One of Israel wants a personal relationship with Israel, as the Husband of His people, and is always calling them to come closer to Him. This is noted in the words of Jeremiah.
"A voice was heard upon the high places, weeping and supplications of the children of Israel; for they have perverted their way, and they have forgotten the Lord their God. Return, ye backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings. Behold, we are come unto thee; for thou art the Lord our God" (Jer. 3:21-22).
The prophet Jeremiah hears the loud, easily audible sounds of bitter lamentation and repentance come from the bare, treeless hilltops of Israel where the licentious worship of idols took place. He sees the people who know they have lost their way, are ashamed of their wickedness, and are thus repenting, calling out and returning to YHVH. The Holy One responds to them [literal interpretation], "Turn, ye turned-away sons; I will heal your turnings" (as in Hosea 14:4). The penitent ones respond to YHVH's gracious invitation without delay. "We come unto Thee." The way of return has been proffered and they are quick to acknowledge His authority. They recall His claim upon them established by the Mosaic Covenant at Sinai, and the sacred memories of the blessings of His Presence with them in the Exodus. In their miseries, the backsliders remember His holy character and faithfulness, and make haste to avail themselves of His mercy (the healing of their apostasy), turn away altogether from hilltop vanities, and return to Him and His Torah.
[Note: Shame accompanies guilt, and is a wholesome, effective antidote to sin and debauchery. Modesty is that quality of the soul that (1) helps prevent us from proceeding into that which is shameful, and (2) moves us toward godly sorrow for sin. Repentance is not simply a moral reformation, it involves the restoration of close personal fellowship with YHVH. This is the key to enduring revival]
Israel became a united nation when they came from Egypt and camped at Sinai. Some Israelites were reluctant to leave Egypt's materialistic, heathen society. Once in the Promised Land, backsliding became their characteristic vice, which eventually fractured them, scattering ten tribes to the nations, and exiling Judah to Babylon. The ten tribes never returned, but after seventy years a remnant of Judah returned to the land. But again, some Israelites did not want to leave Babylon, and remained.
Nevertheless, there are always those who want, more than their familiar convenience or comfort, that which Elohim has promised. "And it shall come to pass, that whosever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered [from Egypt, from Babylon, from tribulation, from terrors, doom, sin] for in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the Lord has said, and in the remnant whom the Lord shall call" (Joel 2:32). This promise was fulfilled on the Day of Pentecost for those despised but inspired disciples, who did not want to remain behind, willingly exchanged their old lives for His newness of life. They believed the words, "But you shall receive power" (Acts 1:8), and entered into the promised blessing.
May we all avail ourselves of His goodness, and not harden our hearts through unbelief. Let us be quick to uproot from our Egypts, depart with haste from our Babylons, and not drag our feet is rejecting sin and worldliness. To be led by His Spirit on pathways of renewal is our calling. Believers have confidence in their Redeemer. The Almighty One of Israel remains faithful age to age.
Knowing the Holy Spirit/Ruach ha Kodesh
"And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them in the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night: He took not away the pillar of cloud by day, nor the pillar of fire by night, from before the people." (Ex. 13:21-22).
The Holy One of Israel covered, enlightened, and guided the children of Israel in their march to Sinai. The Holy Spirit was active in the life of Yeshua in the same way.
First, everyone must understand that Yeshua was Elohim incarnate, for before the universe existed the Word was God. [John 1:1-14] He emptied Himself of His divine majesty, came into the world in the form of a servant, "in fashion as a man" (Verse 8), and "was led up by the Spirit..." (Mt. 4:1), just as His disciples (and we) would be after His ascension. "Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in the fashion as a man, He humbles Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross" (Phil. 2:6-8).
Yeshua did not live to please Himself. His purpose was to fulfill the Father's will and serve man. He did not hold to His own rights--His divine glory or equality with the Father--but looked on the things of others. Before the ages, when there existed Elohim alone, the Word was Elohim. Further, Yeshua asserted His right to the sacred Name of YHVH. "Before Abraham was, I am" (John 8:58), and was one with the Father, being "...the Brightness of His glory, and the express image of His Person" (Heb. 1:3). He emptied Himself of His divine glory, which men could not behold and survive, and took on the form of a servant, the likeness of humanity. But when on earth He did not cease to be Elohim. "For it pleased the Father that in Him [Messiah] should all fullness dwell' (Col. 1:19).
What was the nature of this "fullness" in Yeshua? It was (is) "the complete fullness and exhaustless perfection of the divine essence." [T.C.; Colossians. Eerdmans. p.35.] In other words, the Messiah was not just a manifestation (emanation) of the Godhead/Elohim, He was Himself the totality and complete expression of Elohim's power, attributes, and characteristics!
"And the Word [Logos] became flesh, and dwelt among us..." John 1:14). This Scripture affirms the reality of the Incarnation. YHVH, in the Son, "tabernacled" among men. John, whose mission it was to exalt the Redeemer, bore witness of Him, "This is he of whom I spake." Yeshua made a legal entry into the earth through human birth, and grew into a man to become the sinless, Passover Lamb who would take away the sin of the world. He would, in His humanity, require the full ministry of the Holy Spirit.
Yeshua came to the Jordan to be baptized by John, and we read of His encounter there with the Holy Spirit. All the Gospels give an account of the event: Matthew 3:16; Mark 1:10; Luke 3:21; and John 1:32-33. "...and He saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him" (Mt. 3:16). The baptism of Yeshua by John was not for repentance. He was sinless. It was not for show, or formalism. Yeshua rebuked empty formalism and certainly would not have begun His ministry with it. Neither was His baptism in water done only for an example. Baptism, which has a double meaning, had much to do with Him personally. Baptism has a dual purpose, it looks back and it looks forward. Yeshua did not have any sin to wash out or look back on, so to speak, but He did have a great future to which He wanted to dedicate Himself. When He came up from the water, there was a vision and a voice. The heavens were opened over the selfless and consecrated Saviour and the Spirit descended upon Him, in the symbolic, yet real form of a dove, and was in Him without measure (Jn. 3:34). Following this experience, Yeshua demonstrated miraculous power in His teaching, preaching, and healing ministry that before was not witnessed.
Since Yeshua, Elohim incarnate, needed the endowment of the Holy Spirit, don't we also? The Lamb of God is our example. We learn from Messiah that a true surrender to YHVH brings Believers much nearer to His glory. We want to know the Holy Spirit well, even as John, and even Yeshua, did. He said, "How much more will your heavenly Father give the Spirit to those who ask Him" (Luke 11:13). Live in His Light and witness the heavens open over you!
"Then Peter said unto them, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even to as many as the Lord our God shall call" (Acts 2 :38-39).
Knowing His Voice/Being Led by the Spirit
"Now the Lord [YHVH] spoke to Moses, saying, tell the Sons of Israel to turn back and camp...between Migdal and the sea, over against Baal-zephon: before it shall ye encamp by the sea" (Ex. 14:1-2).
The Israelites had been marching southeast. Had they continued in this way they would have gone beyond the limits of Egypt and into the desert region of the Bitter Lakes. There they would have found no water or nourishment for their flocks and herds. YHVH ordered Moses, who distinctly heard His commands, to turn and go directly south. This route would keep Israel from the desert and within the fairly well-watered fringes of Egypt. Since the new route suited the people, there was no complaint. But there was one disadvantage in the change. If the hostile Egyptians decided to pursue the Israelites, the people would find themselves closed in, with the Red Sea on one side and the advancing military forces on the other. Evidently, their precarious situation led Pharaoh to take advantage (the bait) of the developing circumstances, and pursue them. When he did, the Egyptian army experienced the misfortune of stumbling into a divinely laid trap, and discovered too late that, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" (Heb. 10:31).
Moses had the responsibility to hear the word and give it to the people correctly. Their well-being was dependent upon (1) his faithfulness to deliver what he heard, and (2) their obedience in responding to what they heard. Today, we have heard the inner voice of the Spirit say to us, "Teshuvah", which is "repent, and return all the way to your Hebraic heritage." We are responsible to follow His leading, and proclaim His restoration, current, "hot-off-the-press" truth. When people will not listen to the Word of God, as Pharaoh, YHVH will eventually send His Word to friendlier ears. Paul pulled no punches. He once actually said to hard-headed listeners, "Your blood be upon your own heads. I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles" (Acts 18:6). The great preacher-apostle (the hearer-messenger) had been responsible to fully deliver the Gospel message to the Jews and Greeks in Corinth, which he did. Nevertheless, some Jews among them resisted him, and refused to believe the truth he preached, and thus the Word was taken elsewhere. Listeners (hearers-responders) have the responsibility to hear (shema) the word, test it by Scripture, and when it's found trustworthy, to lift themselves to the level commensurate with the revelation.
"And He was saying to them, Take care what you listen to" (Mark 4:24). We can safely paraphrase what Yeshua said this way: "Attend to what you hear from Me, that you understand My teaching, and so be able to communicate what I have said to you onto others." Moses in the Old Testament and Paul in the New Testament were both faithful in hearing and reporting to people the Word of God. So must we be, who aspire to be a people of the Spirit, a people of His voice and leading. By accurately hearing and properly sharing His Word with the person or people to whom He directs us, in preaching or prophecy, people are drawn closer to an encounter with YHVH. He has important things to impart to all of us in this hour.
For those of us who want the intimacy of hearing His voice and discerning His prophetic word there comes a responsibility. The hearer is accountable to Yeshua for the imparted revelation in accordance to the measure of its import, or consequence.
Go forward in your study. In so doing, discern His instructions for you personally. Keep learning to distinguish between His voice and your own thoughts and feelings. "And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:7). His Scriptures are your guidebook. His peace within you is your umpire. It will say to one voice/thought, "safe!" It will say to another, "out!" Listen.
Weekly Parsha Commentary Study: B'Shalach "When he let go"
"How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word. With all my heart I have sought you; do not let me wander from your commandments. Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against you. Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes" (Psalm 119:9-11).
Note: The study 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, and instruction to the student/reader.
Exodus 13:17-17:16 [Torah]: YHVH lead His people/Route to the Promised Land/Pharaoh pursues Israel/YHVH's reassurance/Red Sea/Salvation of Israel/Song of Praise/Marah/Manna/Sabbath/Water from the rock/Battle with Amalek/Intercession/Moses hands held up/Victory through faith.
Judges 4:4-5:31 [Haftorah]: Israel is oppressed by an adversary. Deborah, a prophetess and judge, is raised up and sent as the deliverer.
John 6:22-40 [New Testament/Apostolic Writings]: In this passage Yeshua teaches the crowd that went to Capernaum seeking Him. Includes lessons "bread from heaven."
Mark 6 [Gospel]: Yeshua teaches on holiness, humility. [See 1 Peter 5:6.] Compare Mark six with the Exodus portion.
Study Questions:
1. In your opinion, what is a major teaching or theme found in the Torah reading?
2. What is the supporting, complementary truth found in the Haftorah?
3. What similar, corresponding idea is revealed in the New Testament reading.
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 Hebraic: a. identity, b. birthright, c. heritage, d. destiny, and e. duty?
7. In what way did the Spirit of Truth (John 14:15-18) anoint and teach you this week?
Israel
"The children of Israel did eat manna for forty years until they came to a land inhabited [or "which they were to inhabit"]...to the border of the land of Canaan" (Exodus 16:35).
Manna would continue to be provided [falling upon the ground six days a week] as long as Israel was in the wilderness, but once they came to the border of Canaan, the Promised Land that flowed with milk and honey, it was cut off. Still, when settled in the new land the Israelites would again depend on YHVH for another life necessity to fall from heaven, regular rainfall, especially the former and latter rains of the agriculture seasons. Therefore, they would have to walk in His ways and keep His statutes, lest drought come upon the land instead. Only regular rainfall would enable crops to spring forth predictably from the soil in their seasons, and bring sustenance and prosperity to the inhabitants. In this way, the land would become the chief means of nourishing the people, and the Israelites would thereby have a continual, powerful reminder of the necessity for dependence upon the Almighty.
But there is "spiritual manna" to enjoy also! In Revelation 2:17, Yeshua speaks to those who overcome and says of them, "...will I give to eat of the hidden manna..." This hidden manna the verse speaks of is the full, sublime, transcendent revelation of YHVH Himself that accompanies the Crown of Righteousness presented to the over-comer by Yeshua.
Life-enriching measures of hidden manna is also received in this life through true spiritual intimacy and fellowship with Yeshua, a quality of fellowship that comes only through delighting in and walking in His ways. The hidden manna cannot be experienced or enjoyed by unbelievers, or even by worldly, lukewarm Believers who are content with traditional religion. It is unlikely they could understand or value such a blessing. "But the natural [carnal, lukewarm, unbelieving] man receiveth not [cares not, pursues not] the things of God: for they are foolishness to him: neither can he know [recognize, value, or desire] them, because they are spiritually discerned" (1 Cor. 2:14). Hidden manna is given to disciples of Yeshua who earnestly press toward over-coming in this world.
Hidden manna--of which we may partake of by degrees in this life--is the eternal, incorruptible, creative divine Life of YHVH Elohim that flows from the Holy Spirit's fullness, and brings powerful spiritual nourishment, renewal, knowledge, enlightenment, and thereby transfiguration of soul to the seeking, obedient follower of Yeshua. Believing Israel is dependent upon their Elohim in this period of restoration for their measure of hidden manna from above. The greater, more profound the hunger, the greater and more life-changing will be the measure of hidden manna that falls day by day, season by season, upon the receptive soul.
Sinner and saint can both prosper, become wealthy, rear large families, enjoy health, and be esteemed in their setting while on earth. But true wealth is the hidden manna Yeshua promised over-comers, for it is leavened, infused, permeated with agape love, divine faith, revelatory insight into Scripture, prophetic unction, and increasing manifestations of the Spirit. It is YHVH's glory. It is felt as the tangible presence of Yeshua. It imparts joy, peace and prosperity of soul. It brings freedom, hope, enlightenment, and strength to the heart and mind of the seeker. The hidden manna, unlike the visible, physical manna that fell for everyone in the wilderness, is laid up in abundance for the sincere, returning Israelites who seek His face. These people receive divine, spiritual enrichment as they minister in prayer, praise, and worship directly to Yeshua. They come from His presence and table with fresh bread/manna/truth, and minister to people in the overflow of His glory and anointing. "And you shall seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart" (Jer. 29:13). Has this hope become our reality yet? It can. It will. May all Israel partake daily of fresh, hidden manna from above. See: Ezek. 44:15-31; 1 Pet. 2:4-10.
Today, Israel is still dependent upon the Almighty One for their provision and protection. It is the only democracy in the Middle East, which is a vast region comprised of larger countries that are all un-democratic, anti-west, hostile dictatorship. The only real ally of Israel has been the United States, even from the beginning of Israel's efforts for nationhood. Great Britain and the European countries have tended to curry the favor of the Arabs, supporting them in order to better promote their own interests. But America, by Elohim's grace, has supported Israel and has given her billions of dollars to help her endure economic sanctions, embargos, and other burdens inflicted by various foes, unfriendly countries and governments.
Israel is menaced by foes today as it was in the days of Moses. The threat of terrorism is always present. The hostile Islamic countries that surround her have produced murderous militias like Hezbullah, Islamic Jihad, the PLO's Fatah, and Hamas, who have brutally and consistently attacked Israeli citizens and military personal in an effort to weaken and destroy the Jewish state. Security measures to protect Israel from suicide bombers have been put into place. Fences, barriers, and military guards now surround public facilities, such as schools.
Israel is suffering a drought and needs physical rain. She also needs the former and latter spiritual rains for a spiritual awakening. Her people need to know of the hidden manna that is stored up for them.
"Say to them, This says the Lord, Behold, I will take the sons of Israel from among the nations where they have gone, and I will gather them from every side, and will bring them into their own land; and I will make them one nation in the land, on the mountains of Israel, and one king will be king for all of them; and they will no longer be two nations, and no longer be divided into two kingdoms" (Ezek. 37:21-22).
The Almighty will gather His people again and return them to the land. Ezekiel prophesies about the restoration of the Babylonian captives to Judah, which would be the initial but partial fulfillment of the word. But the promise also looks down through the centuries to the final ingathering of all YHVH's Israel to their permanent inheritance. The two Houses of Israel, Judah and Ephraim/Israel (Joseph), having each been driven into Diaspora and exile, will become sorrowful over their unbelief and idolatries, repent and return to the Holy One of Israel.
Latter Days
"...and Aaron and Hur supported his [Moses] hands, one on one side and one on the other. Thus his [Moses] hands were steady until the sun set. So Joshua overwhelmed Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword" (Ex. 17:12-13).
Moses was over-looking the battle and blessing Israel. His hands had grown heavy from the fatigue of having to hold them up while Joshua fought with Amalek. So Aaron and Hur stood on either side of Moses and supported his arms for him as he sat upon a boulder, interceding and persevering until sunset. Joshua went on to victory by vanquishing Amalek's strongest warriors but sparing the others, an act which has been viewed as a command of Elohim (Rashi, Gur Aryeh). In any case, Hashem promised to destroy Amalek and exterminate his memory--"I shall surely erase the memory of Amalek from under the heavens" (verse 14)--at some undisclosed time in the future. "Moses built an altar and named it The Lord is My Banner; The Lord has sworn; the Lord will have war against Amalek from generation to generation" (Ex. 17:15-16).
[Note: Moses declared that God would continue the war against Amalek forever, until the memory of the evil nation was obliterated. YHVH instructed Moses to write the words of the vow (Exodus 17:16) in a book, to inspire Joshua and future leaders to perpetuate the conflict (controversy) with hostile Amalek, who had attacked Israel without provocation, until he was altogether removed from under heaven. Ramban and R'Bachya explain the meaning of the verse as a reference to the kings of Israel. As long as Israel had a king on the royal throne, he was obligated to continue YHVH's war against the Amalekites. When Saul became king he was commanded to wage war against Amalek, but he failed to carry out Elohim's orders, for they were clearly delivered by the prophet Samuel. Because of his disobedience, he was stripped of his throne, and the kingship of Israel was given to David, of the tribe of Judah. See: 1 Samuel 15:14-27.
[Amalek was related to Edom. He attacked from ambush the stragglers and weaker Israelites of the delivered multitude who had fallen behind in the march. He did not confront or engage Israel from the front, head-on. Instead, his forces operated much as terrorists do today, by attacking the innocent, weaker and generally helpless of a population. As already mentioned, Saul was commanded to destroy Agog the Amalekite but failed to follow through in his mission, so Amalek lived on through his descendents, one of whom was Haman, the "enemy of the Jews." In these last days, terrorist groups such as Hamas and Hezebolah are proliferating, and they conspire to kill Jews and destroy Israel. These antagonists operate under the same evil spirit and method as did Amalek. ]
Moses gave his altar a name, just as Jacob had when he built and named an altar, El-Elohe-Israel (Gen. 33:20). Moses named his altar YHVH-nissi, which meant "the Lord is my Banner", giving all the honor of the victory to Elohim. Our Banner, Messiah Yeshua, more than compensates for any disadvantage, and we will serve and fight under no other. There is no name given under heaven other than His through Whom salvation and victory are to be obtained, victory secured, and the Amaleks of the earth put to confusion and vanquished.
In this hour may there be a prayer awakening among all Israel, with many people, young and old, holding up holy hands in intercession. We have observed, "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man [as were Moses, Joshua, and Hur] availeth [accomplishes] much" (Jas. 5:16).
Bless the Land
1. Pray for Israel.
"For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not keep quiet, until her righteousness goes forth like brightness, and her salvation like a torch that is burning" (Isaiah 62:1). Pray for the manifold wisdom of God to rest upon those in authority in Jerusalem, and in all the cities and towns of Israel.
2. Pray for America/Pray for your Nation.
"In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings to deep for words; and He searches the hearts to know what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God" (Rom. 8:26-27). Pray for the manifold wisdom of God to rest upon those in authority in the nation, at the federal, state, and local levels.
3. Remember Haiti.
"Then the King will say to those on His right. Come, you who are blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat...to drink...and you clothed me...visited Me...to the extent you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even to the least of them, you did it to Me" (Mt. 25:34-40). Pray for the needs of the people to be met, and for stability in the country. Pray for able, anointed leadership to arise. Donate.
4. Sing the New Song/Song of the Lord. Praise and Worship
Psalm 149 is a Hallelujah Psalm. It is a "new song" recalling a great deliverance that combines praise with militant anticipations. New songs can often be full of praise but also embody a warfare temperament. Let us look at verses five through nine.
Verse 5: "Let the saints be joyful in glory. Let them sing aloud upon their beds." Restored people rejoice as YHVH's glory covers them. Like Paul and Silas (Acts 16:25), they sing hymns of praise even at night in bed. Verse 6: "Let the high praises of God be in their mouth; and a two-edged sword in their hand." These verses, six through nine, can be taken metaphorically, but at the P'Shat level we first read them at face value. Remember, in Nehemiah's time (Neh. 4:13, 16-18) personal weapons were necessarily physical, as he and his people were threatened with extermination by Sanballat, Geshem, and Tobiah. Nehemiah provided each of his workmen on the wall with a tool and a weapon, with which they could resist enemy encroachment. Today, Elohim's work still calls for tools, such as singing and striking weapons [Ephesians 6:10-18]. Among them are new songs and inspired proclamations. High praises and declarations of the Word of YHVH [wielding the two-edged sword of Hebrews 4:12] are not physical weapons, they are spiritual weapons, and mighty in our warfare. They "resist the devil", confront and effectually subdue private and public evils, and pull down dark strongholds in a spirit of war. Verse 7: "To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people." Personal vengeance is not the issue here. Rather, it is the execution of "just" self-defense measures against a persecuting enemy. In spiritual warfare, we take vengeance upon falsehood, demonic spirits, and anti-Messiah superstitions. Verse 8: "To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron". In the ancient world, monarchs (kings and princes) who were taken captive in war were bound with chains of iron and brass, and humiliated. In spiritual warfare, we see demonic powers behind idols and pagan beliefs bound and cast down, publically defeated. Verse 9: To execute upon them the judgments written: this honor have all His saints. Praise ye he Lord." YHVH visits judgment on those who oppress and persecute His people (Deut. 32:41-42). His victories glorify Him, and produce praise, joy, and confidence within His followers' hearts. Believers declare the Word of God and enforce the edicts written therein, defeating the enemy of the souls of men and releasing them to walk in reverence for Yeshua. Truth triumphs.
"I will beautify the meek." Our Creator and Redeemer takes great pleasure in us, as a Father with His children. This involves the form of close, personal relationships. We are His children, people of His love and redemption. We reflect His glory, and are transformed from glory to glory through our obedience, praise, and worship. For this, we rely totally upon His grace, as did the delivered Hebrews, and in this way He takes pleasure in us. "But without faith it is impossible to please Him..." (Hebrews 11:6). Because He daily works on our behalf, we have joy with assurance, and a reason to sing His praise.
"Then sang Deborah and Barak..." (Judges 5:1). The prophetess composed the ode, the new song, from a heart filled with patriotic joy. The nation had sinned in idolatry which had provoked YHVH. Therefore, Israel's enemies were left unrestrained, and set upon them. Then arose Deborah. She stirred up her repentant countrymen, and they ventured forth to war against an oppressor. YHVH performed great acts in delivering Israel's enemy into their hand. In her song, she makes a comparative reference to the days when YHVH led the people of Israel up from Egypt to Canaan, and the display of smoke and quaking on Sinai. Her new song exalted Him and magnified His power.
Read the "new song" of Deborah, and select a verse to sing as praise unto Yeshua.
Conclusion
"But God led the people about, through the wilderness of the Red Sea: and the children of Israel went up harnessed [in a form of military order, with their loins girded] out of the land of Egypt. And Moses took the bones of Joseph [he was embalmed and in a mummy case] with him...And they took their journey..." (Exodus 13:18-20).
Most of the Hebrews gladly left Egypt. Why, then, did Pharaoh have to "send them out", which is the correct rendering of the parashat title, B'Shalach? It is because some of the Israelites were reluctant to leave familiar territory and wholeheartedly venture into large unknown regions, which could hold foreboding risks. They had become socialized by the materialistic, pagan culture in which they lived. Some assimilated. Since these laggards did not leave on their own, Pharaoh sent them out. Partly because of this development, Elohim adjusted their route of departure, and sent them in a different direction that would make a return to Egypt by any queasy Israelites difficult. He would keep them together, as does a mother hen with her chicks, for Israel's long journey. Their years alone with Him in the wilderness would serve to prepare them for the demands of entering into and settling the land of Canaan.
One reason YHVH "led the people about" was to mold Israel's unity and character. When the Almighty has a work for someone to accomplish for Him, a certain character development is usually required, and He sets about to form and cultivate in His servant the qualities He desires. The called person is, of course, born and given certain abilities and potentials. The circumstances and situations of his or her life, under divine guidance, work together to develop/advance within that person the temperament and character virtues needed for the work. De-socialization from unholy customs, temperaments, and values, combined with sanctification of the soul are YHVH's dual processes involved in character reformation. Moses was trained/refined for eighty years under demanding circumstances before he was qualified to step into the position of YHVH's leader and deliverer of Israel. Israel received the Law at Sinai, but would need forty years of character building before entering into her promise.
New Testament Living
All Believers today who are returning to their Hebraic roots, and have a call to participate in the restoration of the kingdom, power, and glory of YHVH to all Israel, will got through periods of training/preparing mixed with challenges and difficulties, as did Moses and the Israelites. John the Baptist, and even Yeshua, did not enter into their ministries until they had suffered through temptations, become mature, and were thirty years old. Do not be discouraged or dismayed with difficulties and trials. Enduring the times of preparation will be necessary with everyone called to higher work, and before anyone's joy can be complete. Selah.
"And Jesus said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men" (Mark 1:17). Yeshua called Simon and Andrew, who were already at work fishing, to the "higher work" of making disciples and teaching them "all things." Yeshua saw the connection of their current trade to the office of apostleship, for which they would be prepared to function in someday. Their call was distinct, and preparing for it would alter their circumstances. They would be required to look at life differently, other than as "making a living" or "surviving". They would become workmen for Yeshua, and hence dependent upon Him alone. They would learn to live by faith, and be content with what they had. A transformation of worldview and personal character in them would require special disciplines and conditions, which would make all twelve disciples feel themselves to be "strangers and pilgrims on the earth." It would require a divine Potter to complete the work. That is why the Master had said to His disciples, "...I will make you..."
To pass from work to higher work takes time and effort on the part of the apprentice. And it is only possible through obedience, self-sacrifice, and continual fellowship with Yeshua. The Believer's time in the wilderness, preparing for the higher work of Yeshua [greater deeds], is as indispensible as was Israel's and Moses'. In politics, it is well known that a long and difficult campaign "vets"--conditions, refines, sharpens, strengthens, and improves--the candidates. It is the same with the divine character campaigns of progressing Believers! Difficulties are made to be overcome. They are first a test. They reveal to us what we are made of, or of what spirit we are. Trials separate the wheat from the chaff. Next, they are a challenge. They try our mettle, the quality and vigor of our faith, strength of temperament, and staying ability. Further, difficulties are an education. Ease does not instruct us, or produce a Moses, an Israelite nation, a Joshua, a Deborah, a David, a John the Baptist, or a Paul. It is effort that produces men and women of YHVH. Finally, the greatest blessing of difficulties is that they can lead us to greater dependency and intimacy with Yeshua.
Some Israelites may have been slow to leave Egypt and hence Pharaoh "sent them out." On the other hand, when the disciples were called by Yeshua, "straightway they forsook their nets, and followed Him" (Mk. 1:18). You may have been reluctant at first, or quick, to respond to the divine call to go forward in Spirit and Truth. But everyone, whether slow or quick in response to His call, who endures YHVH's "school of faith" will be transformed within, and do exploits in Yeshua's Name. This is because they, like--(1) the biblical heroes: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, et al.; (2) the first century Ecclesia: John the Baptist, Apostles, and servants; (3) the holy explorers and colonizers: Pilgrims and Puritans, Livingstone; (4) the reformers: Wycliff, Luther, Knox, Wesley, and more; (5) the people of science: Newton, Kepler, Faraday; (6) the missionaries: Xavier, Moffat, Alexander Duff, etc.; (7) the countless martyrs: Huss, Tyndale, Savonarola, Bunyan, the Covenanters of Scotland, etc.; (8) and Elohim's common, hidden ones: the working men and women, the humble, Christ-honoring multitudes, "of whom the world is not worthy," who give and do good works --"...out of weakness were [willing to be] made strong..." (Heb. 11:34).
Keep in mind three things that we have observed in Parashat B'Shalach. First, no matter how great your struggle seems, His resources are infinitely greater. Also, no matter how feeble or insignificant your labors and efforts toward spiritual growth might appear, His success in your life is inevitable--if you do not grow weary in well-doing. And, no matter how over-looked you may feel at times, His eyes are always upon you. He does not leave one of His returning ones behind. "For behold, I am commanding, And I will shake the house of Israel among the nations as grain in a sieve, But not a kernel will fall to the ground" (Amos 9:9).
Complete the Study Questions.
To be continued.
Hutch Church, D. Min.
