BLESS THE LAND
PARSHA COMMENTARY
PARSHA COMMENTARY AND STUDY
Chayei Sarah "Life of Sarah"
Bless the Land
Written by Hutch Church
November, 2009
Torah: Gen. 23:1-25:18
Haftorah: 1 Kings 1:1-31
Sugg. N.T.: 1 Cor. 15:50-57
Gospels/Acts: Matt. 11 and 12
Welcome "...to the twelve tribes [the whole house of Israel, Judah, Ephraim, and all the dispersed tribes] which are scattered abroad, greeting..." (James 1:1).
We are alive at a time when the Saints must develop their spiritual senses to know the voice of the Almighty personally, become complete in the knowledge of Torah and experience with the Spirit, and thereby participate more effectually in the fulfillment of end-times restoration Scriptures. Thus, our education ministry emphasis at Bless the Land is for all Israel to learn from the Word and the Spirit. You will find in our one-year parsha commentary course a continual accent on the importance of hearing the voice of YHVH and learning to be led by the Spirit. "For all who are being [regularly, consistently] led by the Spirit [Ruach] of God, these are the [mature] sons of God" (Romans 8:14).
Persevere in your fruitful journey toward revelation from the Word, personal transformation, and intimacy with Yeshua. You will be blessed from your effort. "...He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him" (Heb. 11:6).
Introduction to Chayei Sarah "Life of Sarah"
Last Week: "And he lifted up his eyes and looked, and lo, three men stood by him..." (Gen. 18:2). In the previous parsha Torah portion Abraham received a divine visitation, interceded for the righteous of Sodom, and went to Mt. Moriah with Isaac. There he had a revelation of Elohim as YHVH-Jireh, which interpreted means, "In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen." That is, at the point/moment of your need My provision shall be come forth. Find in this week's parsha where He has provided manna for you.
This Week: "...these were the years of the life of Sarah. And Sarah died in Kirjath-arba; the same is Hebron in the land of Canaan..." (Gen. 23:1-2).
Sarah was the beloved wife of Abraham, the mother of the promised seed, Isaac, and is considered the spiritual mother of all Believers around the world. When she died she was 127 years old; Isaac was 37. She is the only woman whose age is mentioned in Scripture. One rabbinic writer said her age meant that Sarah had the exuberance of a seven-year old, the beauty of a twenty-year old, and the wisdom of an one hundred-year old. In any case, she was a woman of faith, even as her husband was a man of faith. "By faith also Sarah herself received strength to conceive seed, even when she was past age..." (Heb. 11:11). She died in Canaan, in her own inheritance, in YHVH's land.
"And Abraham came to mourn for Sarah..." (Gen. 23:2). Now the question arises, "Where did he come from?" Midrash Rabbath says that Abraham came from Mount Moriah, and that during the time of his journey there with Isaac, Sarah had passed away, possibly from grief.
Abraham had lived as a wanderer and pilgrim in the Land, but with the death of Sarah he actually purchased land in Canaan for a sepulcher. It was an act of faith in Elohim's promise (Genesis 12:1-3), a token, or earnest of the whole which his seed would one day possess.
After his period of mourning had passed Abraham focused on obtaining a wife for Isaac. Rebecca was YHVH's choice. She joined with Isaac and became the matriarch of the family. Abraham went on to remarry and had more sons, but none of them were included in his legacy, only Isaac. [See: Genesis 17:21.] He died at 175 years old. "Then Abraham gave up the ghost, and died in a good old age, an old man, and full of years; and was gathered to his people" (Gen. 25:8). His two oldest sons, Ishmael and Isaac, buried him in the cave of Machpelah [means: "double-room"], which he had purchased for his family.
Note: Isaac lived to be 180 years old. Ishmael lived to be 137 years old. Ishmael had twelve sons, each of whom was given a domain and territory.
Chayei Sarah opens with the death of Sarah and closes with the death of Abraham. Old age had overtaken them at their respective times, but not before they had fulfilled their service and accomplished YHVH's purpose for them. They are both examples of the "good and faithful servant" referenced in Matthew's Gospel, chapter twenty-five. Nevertheless, we are not judged based on our accomplishments, but upon our faithfulness. "Moreover it is required in stewards that a man be found faithful" (1 Cor. 4:2).
We learn from the lives and deaths of Abraham and Sarah that the true estimate of a servant's value and influence is found in his/her relationship to YHVH and His Word. A servant is a "minister", not a "lord". The word minister refers to being an "under-rower", a common sailor who mans the oar, and who is usually found among the lower class of workers. Ministers, likewise, are mere servants of Messiah (under-rowers) and have no power or authority of their own other than that which they receive from Him. They (we) are stewards, and their chief qualification is faithfulness, to Yeshua, and to His flock. Abraham and Sarah were the first Hebrews, Canaanite settlers, and faithful stewards of the His promise.
"For I have given you an example..." John 13:15). In the passage referenced, Yeshua washed the feet of the disciples after the Passover supper had commenced. The act of foot washing, which He demonstrated, was symbolic; an example of service based upon selfless love which places the interests of self below the welfare and interests of others. The Bible is full of such life-enhancing instructions that do not stand alone, but instead are also modeled, or illustrated [i.e., the Tabernacle] for the education and edification of the reader.
Abraham and Sarah are our illustrations of faithfulness; they are our examples of the faith, service, and patience required of His people to obtain the promises of Elohim and bear fruit that remains. See: Hebrews 11:8-12..
Knowing the Holy Spirit/Ruach ha Kodesh
"Hear O Israel! The Lord [YHVH] is our God [Elohim; plural], the Lord [YHVH] is one [Echad]! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might. These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons..." (Deut. 6:4-7).
This is the Shema. It affirms both the oneness and unity of YHVH, the only living Elohim. It informs the reader that YHVH, our Elohim, is One, a Plurality in unity. At the time the Shema was written by Moses, the heathen/pagan world surrounding Israel was full of Baals, Jupiters, Asheroths, and many other idols and pagan deities. But the Elohim, Who covenanted with Israel, is declared to be One, the indivisible Absolute. He Makes Himself known as the Infinite One, the true Eternal Source (1) Who alone is to be worshipped, (2) Who alone must be depended upon, and (3) Who alone has the Word that must be obeyed. [Zech. 14:9] The Shema was (and remains) a statement of truth that stood against and contradicted the false "faiths" which surrounded the children of Israel, and clearly affirmed there is but one Great Supreme Creator, Who is Master of heaven and earth. His Name is YHVH. Further, this vital truth was to be diligently taught to the children of every Israelite generation. It is no less needful for Believers' children to be taught Deuteronomy six in our nation today, than it was in the days of Moses.
This declaration of the unity/oneness of YHVH opposed polytheism, pantheism, and all the local and national idols and false gods that proliferated in the ancient world. With it Elohim declares that He alone is to be loved and honored with the undivided totality of mans' mental and physical energies and resources. The body, soul, and spirit of each Israelite were to be yielded to YHVH in devotion and service. Where love exists, there is obedience. Where there is obedience, there is abundant life for Israel. When His people live in victory, and in the abundance of liberty, He is glorified...and pleased.
Thus, our Elohim, YHVH, is One. He is a Plurality in indivisible Unity. Scripture teaches that He manifests as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, yet He is One. YHVH, our Elohim, has revealed Himself as the Father, Who is the Source of the Word, the Begetter, and as Elohim the Son, Yeshua, Who is the Word made flesh, the Begotten; He has existed with the Father from eternity. In the Yeshua ha Mashiach all the fullness of Elohim/deity lives/abides in bodily form. Elohim is also revealed as the Ruach ha Kodesh Who proceeds from the Father and is eternal.
The word "ruach (or "ruwach") was used in the Old Testament when talking about the Spirit. The word means wind. In the New Testament the word for Spirit in Greek is "pnuema", which meants breathe, or breeze. Though we can think of the Ruach ha Kodesh as the Breath of Elohim, the Ruach is not some impersonal "thing" or "force" or "it". The Ruach is He, the manifestation of Elohim. He is divine, alive, and sent to have a relationship with Believers, exalt Messiah, and impart truth and understanding. The Ruach ha Kodesh is (1) Omnipotent-all powerful. Luke 1:35. (2) Omnipresent-everywhere at once. Ps. 139:7, (3) Omniscient-all knowing. 1 Cor. 2:10. (4) Eternal-Hebrews 9:14, (5) Elohim-Acts 5:3-4.
From the beginning (Genesis) right on through to the end (Revelation), the Ruach ha Kodesh has been intricately involved with creation, redemption, the awakening and return of the House of Ephraim to their Hebraic heritage, and the restoration of all things mentioned by the holy prophets. [See: Acts 3:19-21]
"Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth. And when He had spoke these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight" (Acts 1:8-9).
More Spirit, more life: In this hour of the Believers' awakening, repentance, and return to the Father's house, our vital need is to know, hear, and be led by the Ruach. [Note: There are over 450 references to the Ruach ha Kodesh in the Old and New Testaments.]
[Section reference sample is not exhaustive: Genesis 1:1-3, 26; 3:22; 11:7; Ex. 20:3; 1 Sam. 10:10; 19:20, 23;2 Sam. 23:2; 32:2; 1 Kings 22:24; Neh. 9:30; Zech. 2:10; 4:6; 7:12; Job 33:4; Psalm 51:11; 104:30; 139:7; Isa. 6:3,8; 34:16; 48:16; 61:1; 63:10-11; Micah 2:7; Matthew. 3:16, 17:2; 28:18-20; Mark 1:9-11, 9:2; Luke 1:35; 4:14-19; 3:21-22; John 1:1,14, 18; 14:26; 15:26; 17:20-22; Acts 2:32-33; 5:3-4; Rom. 8:11; 1 Cor. 3:16, 12:4-6; 2 Cor. 13:14, Gal. 4:6, Eph. 4:4-6,Phil. 2:6: Col. 1:16, 2:9; 1 Pet. 1:2, Rev. 4:8-11, 10:6.]
In the weeks ahead we will continue to discuss "Knowing the Spirit", including His ministry and baptism, tongues, sanctification, power, and becoming His witnesses.
Knowing His Voice/Being Led by the Spirit/Ruach
"The Lord, the God of heaven Who took me from my father's house and from the land of my birth, and who spoke to me..." (Gen. 24:7).
Abraham was distinguished from his contemporaries in that he was honored with divine visitations and communications. His faith and obedience to the Word of Elohim kept him in a place of receptivity to the voice of the Almighty. A long list of other notable, consecrated people in the Bible heard His voice also, and significant, fruitful ministries were birthed and anointed from the experiences. Should not similar life-changing, ministry-birthing divine encounters, visions, and revelations be desired/experienced by the saints in these demanding and contentious days of restoration also? Yes! Therefore, let us go forward, and prepare and position ourselves [by honoring Him for Who He is] for experiencing and becoming familiar with the voice of Elohim.
"And when I saw it [ vision of divine glory], I fell on my face and heard a voice speaking" (Ezek. 1:28). Ezekiel was in the priestly line of Aaron. But by the visitation of YHVH he is elevated to the office of prophet also. [ Note: Ministers, in order to more thoroughly/completely represent the Kingdom of God and serve men, should have their own visions of Elohim and personal encounters with the Spirit. Otherwise, the servant who is unfamiliar with, disinterested in, or dull to the Spirit will tend to provide only intellectual, formal, liturgical service void of the greater life provided by the Holy Spirit and His anointing. But for the last days we are told the Spirit will be poured out on all flesh and "your sons and your daughters will prophesy...your young men shall see visions..." (Joel 2:28). This is an invitation to "get ready". What would you rather have, a divine vision and His voice to inaugurate your ministry, as did Ezekiel, or perhaps a degree only? Preparation is absolutely necessary, and can be very good, but a visitation by Yeshua is much more empowering, and therein even better. Can we command, manipulate, or in some way earn a visitation, or receive a divine encounter with our own formulas, codes or operations, or while remaining lukewarm? Absolutely not! Paul writes, "That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death" (Phil. 3:10). Our motive must be to know Him, not just about Him, because we love Him! And the more we obey His Word and are being transformed into His likeness, the better we shall know Him. But intellectual knowledge alone, for life and ministry, is not enough. The knowledge of Messiah, His power, sufferings, and daily dying to self that Paul writes about, is not wholly gained by sermons or reading or study, but by direct, personal communion with Yeshua! This degree of likeness, attainable only through intimate union with Messiah in the Word and Spirit, Paul wanted when he arrived at the end of his pilgrimage/race. He was not interested in being a theologian. He wanted to be Yeshua's true friend. With that in mind, we read Jeremiah 29:13: "Then you shall call upon Me, and ye shall go and pray unto Me, and I will hearken unto you. And you shall seek me and find me {His presence and power, but also His sufferings and selflessness, for these four are inseparable}, when you search for me with all your heart." The prophet was declaring eventual restoration for Judah/Israel; that the Elohim of Israel will turn His peoples' hearts back to Him, pour out on them a Spirit of supplication {this is what was occurring just before Pentecost}, then withdraw the veil, reveal Himself, transform them, and restore them in the Land. We are hereby encouraged that He will also hear our own petitions today, and fulfill the word for this hour. If our motive is: (1) love for Him, (2) a sincere desire to know Him intimately, and (3) even become like Him, and (4)seek with sincerity, then we have positioned ourselves well for the promised individual and corporate visitation we need. ]
The holy glory and divine voice in the vision Ezekiel experienced so overwhelmed him, that he fell on his face, and only listened while the Word of YHVH was emblazoned upon his soul. There was no question as to Who was speaking to Ezekiel in the vision, and when he arose the experience had made him a different man, a man of the Spirit prepared for the demands of his calling.
We are frail mortals, as was the priestly prophet, but the Holy One inhabits eternity. Thus, His visitations of intense holiness and glory usually accompany His voice, convict us of sin, and reveal/expose defilement in our souls. Such experiences with His voice can be very powerful and necessary, for they will purge Believers, bring us to repentance, and then empower and qualify us for specific service. We must go up the mountain and into His presence--not remain at the base as did the children of Israel in the day of Sinai--and learn to hear and know His voice/word, and thereby to be increasingly led by the Spirit.
"...and His voice was like the sound of many waters [a great waterfall]" (Rev. 1:15). The Almighty's voice has many sounds. It can be loud and reverberating like thunder, or quiet and gentle like a whisper. His voice can be soothing, assuring, and comforting as a father or mother speaking to their child. His children can learn to recognize His voice, and marvel by its purity and clearness. Thus, His divine, eternal voice is unique, and has a quality of sound like none other. It is a joy to hear Him.
YHVH's voice is: (1) a peaceful voice (Psalm 85:8), (2) a voice of healing (Ps. 107:20), (3) a voice that seeks for us (Gen. 3:9), (4) merciful (Nu. 7:89), (5) majestic (Ps. 29:4), (6) a calling voice (Isa. 6:8), calling Ephraim home, (7) a voice that encourages (Mt. 3:17), (8) a great and mighty voice (Rev. 1:10).
Continue to seek, listen, and detect His leading. Abraham listened when YHVH spoke to him and said, "I am your exceeding reward." What could be better than hearing personally that Elohim is our reward/portion? He wants you to hear His voice deep within your spirit, and you (and I) need to hear Him speak faith-inspiring words. Remove yourself from distractions and wait in His presence. Pray, and listen. He longs to hear you too.
Please meditate on each of the above Scriptures for the conditioning of your mind and heart to discern the mode/variety/nature of His voice!
Next week we will extend our discussion on knowing the forms of His voice/word.
Weekly Parsha Commentary Study: Chayei Sarah "Life of Sarah"
"Give diligence to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed' (2 Tim. 2:15). We study, not to impress men, but to know and please YHVH, and to mature as disciples and apologists of Yeshua ha Mashiach. Study is worship
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Read the parsha portions and expect to hear from your Elohim. Your participation in this study program is a divine appointment, and a practical means of helping yourself ascend (make aliyah) to higher levels of discipleship/fellowship with Yeshua in both the Word and Spirit. Consider this: For the two sticks of Ezekiel 37 (the houses of Judah and Ephraim) to be joined together into one stick in the master's hand (as prophesied), the "stick of Hebraic truth restoration" and the "stick of the fullness of the Spirit" must be joined into "one stick of Word and Power" in the Believers' hand. In this, we can all readily participate in the restoration of the Kingdom of Israel.
With that in mind, as you study the Torah, Haftorah, and New Testament Scriptures, make room for the Holy Spirit/Ruach ha Kodesh to move among your group members, and upon each one.
Genesis 23:1-25:18 [Torah] includes: Sarah death/Cave of Machpelah/Abraham grows older and sends his servant to fetch a wife for Isaac/Eliezer, man of prayer and faith/Trust in YHVH rewarded/Rebecca, woman of faith/Eliezer and Rebecca return/Isaac and Rebecca meet/Abraham remarries/Ishmael's genealogy.
1 Kings 1:1-31 [Haftorah] includes: David passes authority to his son. YHVH's election. What did Abraham's and David's sons, who received the blessing and authority of their fathers, have in common?
1 Cor. 15: 50-57 [New Testament] includes: The last trumpet, the dead raised and transformed, and victory through Yeshua ha Mashiach.
Matt. 11 and 12 [Gospels] includes: What service did Eliezer and John the Baptist have in common?
Note: In this life we cannot see eternity, so Scripture exhorts us to walk by faith. Elohim's prophecies and promises are our encouragement and hope, our sign posts providing direction and comfort. When trials come, we walk by faith in His Word, which is our instrument panel, so to speak. Remember, Yeshua has overcome death and the grave [1 Cor. 15:55] and is returning for His over-coming, Spirit-led, Torah-honoring Bride. Seek first His kingdom, and all good and necessary things will be provided for you. Commit this word to your heart: "And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work" (2 C or. 9:8).
Questions
1. In your opinion, what is the prominent teaching or theme of the Torah reading?
2. What is the supporting or complimentary truth found in the Haftorah?
3. What is the corresponding truth found in the New Testament reading?
4. Summarize the entire parsha's common teaching/central truth, as you see it.
5. Relate the whole parsha's main theme/central truth with this week's Gospel reading. How does Yeshua illustrate/demonstrate your common truth?
6. What does this week's reading reveal to you/teach you about your Israelite/Hebraic: a. identity, b. birthright, c. heritage, d. destiny, e. duty?
7. Did the Spirit of Truth anoint you or speak to you this week while in study? How?
8. In your study time did you experience spiritual intimacy with Yeshua this week? Please comment in your "Answer Notebook".
Israel
"YHVH Elohim of heaven, who took me from my father's house and from the land of my birth...swore to me, saying, to your descendants I will give this land..." (Gen. 24:7).
Abraham was determined to keep his son Isaac secure in the land of Canaan, and not "sent off" on his own into the world of the Chaldeans to find himself a wife, lest they become.."turned back again to Egypt" (Luke 9:62). He well remembered (1) the idolatry in Chaldea, and (2) Lot, his nephew, the outcome of his straying from sound judgment, and the flirtation with the allure of Sodom. So Abraham sent instead his trusted servant, Eliezer, to fetch a suitable wife from his (Abraham's) own people, and bring her to Canaan and his son, Isaac. Abraham was careful to have this done while Isaac remained in the Land, as he was the only appointed heir to the soil, and therefore had confidence that the mission would be blessed. In the story, Eliezer is a "type" of the Holy Spirit, Who the Father has sent to gather the Bride of Yeshua from the nations, and return her to her identity, heritage (Spirit and Truth), and the Land.
The world's wisdom, which had called out to Lot from the gates of Sodom and Gomorrah, would have told Abraham to find a wife for Isaac from among the Canaanite pagans, and thus, through an ungodly alliance, gain a stronger footing and favor in the Land. But Abraham was led by the Spirit, and obtained a wife for his son from his brother's family, and success for the venture was granted from YHVH. Abraham had learned from the episode of Hagar and Ishmael that faith in the Almighty, YHVH-Yireh, must always be dominant over expediency.
As Eliezer was commissioned by his master to bring Isaac's bride, Rebecca, to the land centuries ago, many have helped Jews to return to the Land in these last days. Zionist organizations (charities, non-profit groups, churches) around the world provide funds and volunteers/servants for the welfare of new immigrants, and for the ongoing development of the Land. Groups arrive yearly to help plant trees, work in vineyards, build reservoirs and medical facilities, teach in schools, and serve in many other ways. The outside volunteers have established a legacy of selfless service and hard work, productive work.
In the past, and even today, volunteers (especially the young) have stayed in communities called kibbutzim [plural for kibbutz]. In the early Zionist years many kibbutzim were settlements that focused on the reclamation of the Land for agriculture development. Today, they are ideals in Israelite communal living.
Much progress has been made. If you drive along the border road that separates Israel and Lebanon you will notice a striking contrast/difference between the wooded, green landscape of Galilee, and the rocky unplanted landscape on the other side of the border. There, gaunt herd animals (goats, etc.) wander about in search of vegetation. Before Judah came to Palestine and Israel was declared a state, both sides were barren.
Call the National Jewish Fund [02-6707411] if you want to plant a tree when you come to Israel.
Latter Days
"In that day will I raise up the tabernacle of David that is fallen, and close up the breaches thereof; and I will raise up his ruins, and I will build it as in the days of old" (Amos 9:11).
The "day" that the prophet Amos is referring to in the verse is the end-times period in which the tribes of Israel--a remnant of people from all the nations who have rejected idols and falsehood and have returned to YHVH--will be restored to the Land. The terms end-times, last-days, and latter days are, for all intents and purposes, pretty much interchangeable. Many believe the period of the "last days" is the time between the first and second coming of Messiah.
Latter Days refers to "a later or subsequent time." End-times, last-days, and latter-days are all terms which simply defined mean, "situated or occurring nearer the end of something than to the beginning; belonging to the final stages." Are there final stages to this age in which we now live? Yes! Yeshua said this current world has an end, and the signs of our times strongly suggest we are drawing close to that termination, and the Second Coming. This puts us in the latter days. "So shall it be at the end of the age: the angels will come forth and sever the wicked from the just" (Mt. 13:50).
Because of the importance of having a basic understanding of end-times prophecy and latter-day events, we have aligned a more helpful, systematic itinerary of basic subjects which we will progress through this year. They include: (1) Importance of Understanding Prophecy, (2) Prophetic Signs of the Time, (3) Prophesy of Moses; Deuteronomy Four, (4) Israel in Prophecy, (5) Prophetic Profile of Judah and Ephraim, (6) Isaac and Ishmael, (7) Jacob and Esau, (8) End-times and the Feasts, (9) America in Prophecy, (10) Amos and Daniel, (11) Ezekiel, (12) Prophecies of Jacob: Where is Israel? (13) Restoration of All Things, (14) Is a Latter Day revival prophesied in Scripture?
The Tabernacle of David [the kingdom of Israel with the united twelve tribes] is beginning to be restored in our day with the return of: (1) Judah to the Land, and (2) non-Jewish Believers to their Hebraic identity, family, heritage, and duty. This rebuilt Tabernacle of David, by definition, will be composed of the same constituent parts/people/tribes as was the first, over which King David and his son Solomon ruled.
"Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for His name. And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written, After this [the scattering and exile period] I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build the ruins thereof, and I will set it up [restore]" (Acts 15:14-16).
The Apostle James, in Acts 15, is speaking at the Jerusalem Counsel concerning the conversion of Gentiles and how they should be received into the synagogues by the believing Jews. In verse nineteen he says, "Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God." The word "turn" in Greek [inspired text of the New Testament] is epistrepho, which means "reverting", "returning", or "coming again". The word epistrepho is found also in 1 Thess. 1:9. There it refers to people who were leaving idolatry/paganism and returning (reverting) to the Elohim of Israel, YHVH. In other words, the Thessalonians were leaving sinful idolatrous lifestyles, trusting Yeshua, and returning to the Tabernacle of David [kingdom of united Israel] from which their ancestors had rebelled and left.
The Counsel of Jerusalem required returning Believers to forsake all vestiges if idolatry, refrain from pork, and meat that was strangled or offered to idols, consume no blood, and avoid fornication. With those abominations out of their lives they could come into the synagogue on Sabbath, fellowship with the Jews there, and begin learning the Torah in the weekly readings. The reconstruction of their own lives was the starting point of their returning to and rebuilding the Tabernacle of David. Each Believer from the returning tribes and nations would be called to sanctification and given the opportunity of Torah training. In this way, living stone by living stone, the kingdom of Israel would be re-gathered and restored.
The restoration of Tabernacle of David which began in the Apostolic period [early ecclesia; first century] was interrupted when division, paganism, rejection of Hebrew roots, ignoring the ministry of the Spirit, the growth of false doctrine, worldliness, and moral violations increasingly weakened the Ecclesia. In time, it became so spiritually depleted, institutionalized, and impotent, that it descended into and was enveloped by spiritual darkness for about one thousand years. After these "Dark Ages", with the advent of the Reformation period, the restoration movement of the Spirit ["and the Spirit of Elohim moved upon the face of the waters." ] began again, and the return of the Saints to Spirit and Truth continues to progress today.
Returnee: n. One who returns; esp.: one returning to the U.S. [i.e., native home] after service overseas. [Webster New Collegiate Dictionary]
For Judah and Ephraim, and all their companions, to most effectively fulfill their end-time destinies, they need to understand and prepare for the day and hour into which they are rapidly moving. We have indeed entered the latter days of the end-times/last days. Spirit and Truth are being returned with power and revelation to the Body of Messiah. Recognition of returning Ephraim, and his reconciliation with Judah, are on the prophetic horizon. A remnant of the House of Ephraim and his companions are being prepared/fitted/qualified to return to the Land, which will take place in the Father's seasons and means, which will be revealed. The Bride is making herself ready for the Second Advent. In order for those who want to participate in the challenging period ahead, they must be equipped with the knowledge of the divine schedule, and empowered by the Spirit.
To that end, we will continue our discussion of the Latter Days next week with, "The Importance of Understanding Prophesy".
Bless the Land
1. Pray for Israel, and America.
The Hamas terrorist organization test fired a missile last week, a model of a type that could hit Tel Aviv, according to IDF intelligence. It was apparently smuggled in through underground tunnels running beneath the Gaza-Egypt border. Iran supports local jihadists. Syria supplies them. Pray for the safety of the IDF and that the plans of terrorists would be exposed and defeated.
2. Sing the Song of the Lord.
"And he said, O Lord God of my master Abraham, I pray thee, send me good speed this day, and show kindness unto my master Abraham" (Gen 24:12).
Eliezer, Abraham's beloved and trusted servant, was sent on a mission by his master to search for a maiden for Isaac. He commenced the endeavor with prayer. He asked the Almighty One of Abraham to "cause to meet, or come before me, what I need." The servant's piety, child-like faith, and concern for his master are truly commendable. He set forth from Hebron, with his drivers and camels laden with choice gifts, and headed north up the Jordan valley to Haran. He soon arrived at the city of Nahor, stopped at the community well, and with simplicity prayed again. The answer was immediate. "And it came to pass, before he was done speaking [in his heart], that, behold, Rebekah came out."
Eliezer represents the attitude of prayer and supplication which returning Israelites should demonstrate in their difficulties and challenges, and in the up and down pathways of their pilgrimage. His attitude was one of (1) piety, (2) faith, and (3) concern for his Master's household. Such sanctified faculties assure prompt responses from heaven. "The effectual fervent prayer [petition] of a righteous [consecrated, believing] man avails much [has power]" (James 5:16). Where prayer and supplication are born of intimacy with YHVH, heaven opens, angels ascend and descend, and answers come forth right before one's face.
So it is when His disciples (the Bride) pray to receive the song of the Lord/Bridegroom, a new song. This sacred ministry should become an important aspect of every Believer's ministry with Yeshua. Remember, the song of the Lord, the new song, is supernatural, given by inspiration of the Holy Spirit and the indwelling Word, is spontaneous, and sung and played by a yielded Believer. It is an uplifting exercise, and within reach. Further, it releases a prophetic anointing upon individual or corporate worship. It is a prophetic song, and brings exhortation, edification, encouragement, even instruction and guidance. The song of the Lord can also incorporate within it other gifts of the Spirit. It will therefore bless the Body of Messiah with joy and strength. But the new song should not only be desired, it must be understood and practiced, so (1) its good fruit may be reaped by the Ecclesia, and (2) confusion and misunderstanding are avoided. May we renew our efforts in this cause
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"But my horn shalt thou exalt like the horn of a unicorn; I shall be anointed with fresh oil [vigor and power for service]" (Psalm 92:10).
Psalm 92 is a song for the Sabbath day. We are told it was sung in the Temple during the morning service, at the time the drink offering took place. It was also sung on the second day of Succot. It is a psalm of praise and thanksgiving. In it, the psalmist--speaking for Israel/His faithful ones--does not merely hope, but affirms that he will be anointed with fresh [the best and most pure] oil. He is declaring that the presence of YHVH will bring new vigor and power to His people, and thus victory over their enemies. His confidence rested entirely on Elohim's dependable faithfulness.
Believers today may/must affirm their faith with the same confidence, "I shall be anointed with fresh oil." Fresh oil? Yes, the Spirit. For what? Vigor and strength for spirit, soul, and body, for life and service. How will "fresh oil" come? For one thing, fresh oil [new anointing] is poured out with the song of the Lord/Bridegroom. The grounds for our faith are: (1) We are united with Messiah, the anointed One, the Bridegroom and Singer [Jer. 33:11; Zeph. 3:17; Heb. 2:12]. "Of His fullness we all receive." Also see: Zeph. 3:17; Heb. 2:11-12. (2) The Ruach ha Kodesh dwells within us, along with His voice/word. "...the Spirit of God dwelleth in you" (1 Cor. 3:16). (3) The promises and faithfulness of Elohim. "How much more will your Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him" (Luke 11:13).
As did the psalmist, Eliezer prayed with expectation. He positioned himself near the well and waited. And Rebekah showed up! Therein, Abraham's household (and seed) was ordered, invigorated and strengthened with the arrival of the fresh "life" of the new matriarch. Let us, who are returning to the Father's house, also position ourselves at the well [prayer in His manifest, tangible presence] and wait. Let us reverently, yet expectantly, affirm as the psalmist, "I shall be anointed" with a fresh, new, joyful anointing, and learn to rise up and flow in the Spirit with the song of the Lord. "Ask, and it shall be given you" (Mt. 7:7).
The new song/song of the Lord usually involves singing and musical instruments, but can find expression in spontaneous dance. The great purpose of a new song, though, is to be a fresh, Holy Spirit inspired means of worship, of experiencing His faithfulness, voice, and personal closeness [true intimacy]. It's that simple, and that wonderful.
"But what saith it? The word is nigh [near] thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart..." (Rom. 10:8).
Pray, affirm, practice. Your "new song" will involve a holy dialogue. Begin to sing in the Spirit with your personal prayer language. Come under a fresh anointing.
Next week we will begin to discuss "Latter Days/New Mercy Songs", concerning restoration mercies (revelations) and new songs that declare them.
Conclusion
"...and Abraham came to mourn for Sarah, and to weep for her" (Gen. 23:2).
This week's Torah portion, Chayei Sarah, which means "the life of Sarah", curiously begins with her death, burial, and Abraham's mourning. Then the Torah section concludes with Abraham's death. What are we to make of this? Yeshua provides the hint in John 12:24. "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit."
Yeshua here referenced His death and resurrection, and the everlasting, glorious fruit [salvation and restoration] that would come from these events. The same idea is hinted at when He said to His followers, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself [die to himself ], and take up his cross, and follow Me [in newness of life]" (Mark 8:34). We find this principle of life coming from death demonstrated in the account of Sarah
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"And she shall be a mother of nations [literally: she shall become nations]..." (Gen.17:16).
In this passage YHVH completes the covenant He started with Abraham with a name change for Sarai, the promise to her of a son, and that nations would come from her. Isaac was born when she was old, but the progress of the promise of multitudes halted until Sarah passed away. Rebekah arrived soon after Sarah's death and burial in the Cave of Machpelah. And through Isaac and his wife Rebekah the promise of Sarah's life finds renewal and eventual fulfillment, as the seed multiplies and nations prepare to come forth. The fruit of her rich life of loyalty and faith--(1) the continuation of the covenant line, and (2) multitudes of descendants--would become a reality after she was dead. To this day the "life of Sarah" blesses the earth. And her Seed has triumphed over hell and the grave !
"Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain; that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may giveth it you" (John 15:16). What is a good life then? It is "That your fruit should remain." It is a life that honors YHVH and leaves behind blessed seed/people who themselves go on to bear good fruit, enrich their societies, and honor the Almighty. This describes the "life of Sarah".
1. Complete the Study Questions.
Maintain your answer notebook.
2. Complete Your Prayer Journal.
"...and His sheep hear His voice, and He call His owns sheep by name, and leads them out...and the sheep follow him because they know His voice" (John 10:3-4).
Guide: A. Did you experience/encounter Yeshua's manifest presence this week during prayer and worship as you ministered to Him? B. Did you hear the word/voice of the Spirit? How? C. Do you believe your senses are now being conditioned/exercised to discern His voice? D. Have you been able to meet with others this week to pray, and to practice recognizing and functioning in the gifts of the Spirit, such as prophecy, or tongues and interpretation? What were the results?
