BLESS THE LAND
PARSHA COMMENTARY
Parsha Commentary Study
Yitro "Jethro"
Bless the Land
Written by Hutch Church
Torah: Exodus 18:1-20:26 (23)
Haftorah: Isaiah 6:1-7:6, 9:5-6
Sugg. N.T.: Mat. 5:17-32; Heb. 12:18-24
Gospels: Mark 7 and 8
Welcome: "...to the strangers scattered [including 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 [be yours in the fullest measure]" (1 Peter 1:1-2).
Forward ho! "And the Lord said unto Moses, Wherefore criest thou unto Me? speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward" (Ex. 14:15). Moses appealed to the Most High--though unnecessarily, since He had already promised to defeat Pharaoh and bring the people safely into Canaan--and received a gracious reply. YHVH instructs Moses to tell the Israelites to prepare for a forward movement. Israel was not to remain in their encampment, but were to advance to the very rim of the Red Sea, and then "...stand ye still and see the salvation of YHVH." Read 2 Chron. 20:17-18.
Likewise, Yeshua's people are not to rest on their laurels, or remain at ease in comfortable and familiar estates, but are exhorted to always go forward; forward in faith, hope, love, in holy living and labors, in missions, in support for Israel, in restoration, in Spirit and in Truth. Forward!--by the way He makes for us. Forward!--in contrast to murmuring and stagnation. Forward!--in order to stay under His moving Cloud. Forward!--to where the miracles and testimonies await. Forward!--to His provision and protection. Forward!--with a pure heart and firm expectation of success in the journey. Only in going forward will our enemies be swallowed up, will our barriers yield and break, will water come from a rock, and will manna fall from heaven. And only on the road ahead we will see wonderful displays of His glory, and harvest inspirational stories for our children.
So, go forward. Follow the Cloud in the Word this week.
Introduction to Yitro "Jethro"
Last week: "Then came Amalek [by ambush from the rear], and fought with Israel in Rephidim...and it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed..." (Ex. 17:8-11).
Israel had been delivered from Egypt, and had also gone thru the Red Sea, received manna from heaven and water from the rock, and was traveling to Sinai when Amalek maliciously attacked them from behind. The Amalekites went to war with Israel because of their own hostility and false assumptions about the motives of the migrating mass of people. But they completely underestimated the Resource of Israel. Moses acted quickly and marshalled his fighting men, led by Joshua, to the battle. At the Red Sea all they could do was wait for deliverance. In the wilderness they could do nothing but wait on YHVH's provision of manna and water. But here, when attacking men were upon them, and there was time and space for fighting, Moses brings the strength of his people to the front.
Joshua and the men of war descended into the valley to combat the aggressors. Meanwhile, Moses, along with Aaron and Hur, climbed to the hilltop with the rod of Elohim firmly in his grasp. Joshua went on to defeat Amalek with physical effort and weapons; however the warfare went for or against Israel as Moses lifted up his hands in supplication, or let them hand down to rest in weariness.
We observe: Prayer without any corresponding effort (where effort is appropriate and possible) is basically "faith without works." On the other hand, action without prayer is tantamount to "works without faith". Therefore, do both! Pray, and then act. In this way, you will find the Spirit coming alongside you with interest, to strengthen you and give you success in your efforts. [For commentary see James 2:14-26.]
This week: "Now Jethro, the priest of Midian, Moses' father-in-law, heard of all that God had done for Moses and for Israel His people, how the Lord had brought Israel out of Egypt" (Exodus 18:1).
In this week's parashat, Yitro ("Jethro") visits Moses at the "Mount of God", Mount Sinai. Jethro means "excellence". He was also called Reuel, meaning "friend of God", which may have been a personal name. He was Zipporah's father, and hence Moses' father-in-law. Jethro was the family priest and a leader of the Midianites, a people who had originated from Midian, a son of Abraham. This made Moses and Jethro distant cousins. When he learned about Israel's deliverance from Pharaoh under the leadership of Moses, the dividing of the Red Sea, and Israel's victory over Amalek, Jethro came into the wilderness to visit and celebrate with the great prophet. He also restored to Moses his wife Zipporah and their two sons, who had been earlier placed under Jethro's care. The cheerful and blessed family reunion was characterized by courtesy and good will. Also, wise and needed counsel from Jethro was received and acted upon by Moses, who had been over-extending himself in judging the unending legal cases of the congregation. "Why do you sit alone as judge and all the people stand around you from morning until evening" (Ex. 18:14)?
The family reunion activities included burnt offerings and sacrifices in which Moses' father-in-law participated. The greatness and goodness of the Holy One of Israel was acknowledged and thanksgiving was rendered unto Him, as Jethro, with Moses, Aaron, Joshua, and all in attendance, worshiped. "Now I know that YHVH is greater than all gods; indeed, it was proven when they [Amalek] dealt proudly against the people. Then Jethro...took a burnt offering and sacrifices for YHVH, and Aaron came with all the elders of Israel to eat a meal with Moses' father-in-law before God" (Exodus 18:11-12). Apparently, Jethro, though a priest of Midian, was so impressed with the One True Elohim of Israel, Who had so marvelously delivered, protected, instructed, and provided for His people Israel, that he converted. [Note: Jethro had a letter added to his name when he converted and fulfilled the commandments. Before this, his name had been Jether.] The reunion, fellowship and worship that took place between Moses and Jethro the Midianite is a foreshadowing of the reunion between the House of Judah and the House of Israel in the Millennium, when Israel truly becomes one house, the restored Tabernacle of David under the reign of Messiah. See: Jeremiah 3:18; 32:32, 37, 39; Isaiah 11:12-13; 54:13; Hosea 1:11; Ezekiel 37: 16-17; 19-25.
Parashat Yitro continues with Israel encamped at the foot of Mount Sinai, the place of the next great event in Israel's history, the ratification of the nation's covenant with God which was preceded by the giving of the Law. Moses became the mediator, going up and down the mountain carrying messages between YHVH and Israel. It was in the third month, about fifty days out of Egypt. Israel was bivouaced in the wilderness, a place of absolute solitude, barren, fruitless. The people would remain there for eleven months. What follows is a brief summary of the parashat.
After Jethro's visit, Israel proceeded and camped at Sinai. Moses was called up the mountain where YHVH told him, "Now then, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, then you shall be My own possessions among all the peoples, for all the earth is mine...these are the word you shall speak to the sons of Israel" (Ex. 19:5). Moses descended the mountain and shared the words the Holy One had commanded him with the elders. "All the people answered...all that the Lord has spoken we will do" (verse 8)! Moses climbed up again, and "brought back the words of the people to the Lord." The Holy One spoke to him and said, "Go to the people and consecrate them...and let them be ready for the third day, for the third day the Lord will come down on Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people" (vv 10-11). Moses went down the mountain to the people, consecrated them, and said, "Be ready for the third day..." (v. 15). On the third day Mount Sinai was covered with smoke, with great thunder, lightning flashes, and a very loud trumpet sound, so that the people who were assembled at the foot of the Sinai trembled. The Lord came down on the mountain in smoke and fire, and it quaked violently. Then the Lord called Moses up to the top, and he went up. "Go down, warn the people, so that they do not break through...let the priests who come near to the Lord consecrate themselves..." (vv. 21-22). Moses went down the mountain and told the people. Then Elohim spoke to all Israel, "I am YHVH your Elohim who brought you out of the land of Egypt..." (20:2), and proclaimed to them the Ten Commandments. The people saw the smoke and lightning flashes, heard the majestic Voice and trumpet sounding, and were afraid. They said to Moses, "Speak to us yourself" (v.19). Moses assured them, then ascended the mountain and approached the thick cloud which veiled YHVH Elohim. "Thus shall you say to the sons of Israel..." (v. 22). At that time Moses would be given the Decalogue on two stone tablets, and the ordinances of the Mosaic Covenant to bring down to the sons of Israel, who had fled to their tents.
YHVH is love, and He is power. He exhibits both qualities in His working. Some see the love and are attracted to Him. Others see only the power and fear Him. Israel was offered close and direct communication but declined, and settled for an intermediary instead. Moses experienced the same manifestations at the mount as did the people, but was drawn closer to the Source Who did the majestic speaking. It was the same when Yeshua walked in Israel among His own. Some said, "Lord, I will follow you withersoever thou goest." Others, facing His awesome righteousness and authority, and who struggled with His words, "besought Him that He would depart out of their coasts."
The hungry soul presses forward to know Him. "Moses drew near to the thick cloud where God was" (v. 21). So must we.
Knowing the Holy Spirit/Ruach hs Kodesh
"Moses went up to God..." (Ex. 19:3). It was the natural thing to do. Moses had been told by YHVH that Israel would serve Him at Sinai (Ex. 3:12), and therefore upon reaching the mountain, he started ascending it. The Almighty's voice met him on the way up, and sent him back to the "house of Jacob" with His message. [The expression references Genesis 28:14 and 35:11 where Jacob was promised numerous seed which would become a nation.] "Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians" (v. 4). YHVH went on to give to Moses His appeal for Israel with respect to the future by reminding them of what He did for them in the past, how He sustained, protected, and lovingly cared for them as He brought them all the way to Sinai. "Now therefore"(v. 5), He tells Moses, if Israel would obey His voice and accept His covenant offer, they would (1) become "a peculiar treasure" (verse 5). Israel would be a precious possession, highly esteemed and jealously guarded by YHVH. This prized position and special regard they would enjoy exclusively, sharing it with no other nation. (2) They would become "a kingdom of priests" (verse 6). Israel would be, all of them, both kingly and priestly! They would be kings over--not servants to--darkness, Satan, hell, sickness, poverty, enemies, and all evil forces, demonic or human. Further, they would have no earthly king over them, but Israel would be a theocracy (1 Sam. 12:12), and they would rule the heathen. As priests, they (each one) would have free and ready access to the Holy One without the need for an intermediary, but they would be intermediaries between YHVH and the heathen. (3) What's more, they would become "a holy nation" (verse 6). Israel would be a set-apart nation, unlike any other nation on earth. She would be inwardly pure and holy, sanctified by His manifest presence and consecrated to His service. His favor would compass them, and His Spirit would rest upon them like a broad mantle of divine glory, profoundly distinguishing the people. In short, He made them an offer they could not refuse!
"And Moses came and called for the elders of the people" (verse 7). Moses descended from where he had been on the side of the mountain and delivered the message of Elohim's generous promise, with its enticing benefits and advantages, to the leaders. [The requirements would be presented later.] These, in turn, went to their tribes and congregations to share the offer with the people. They all considered YHVH's gracious appeal and answered, "all that the Lord has spoken we will do" (verse 8). Their answer was taken back up the mountain by Moses, and given to YHVH, Who was looking forward with anticipation to revealing Himself on the Mount of Sinai to the waiting nation. He said to His servant, "Lo, I come unto thee in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak to thee" (verse 9). Moses descended, consecrated the people, and on the third day, heralded by smoke, lightning, thunder, and loud trumpet blasts, the Elohim of Israel descended in a thick cloud upon the mountain and visited His people. The most momentous event in human history was about to take place, Elohim's proclamation of the Ten Commandments.
YHVH has always veiled Himself when coming and speaking to man, for nobody can stand in the brightness of His glory and live. When He visited Abraham, He was shrouded by human form. When He first spoke to Moses He was shrouded by the fire. On Sinai He would be veiled "in a thick cloud". In the Tabernacle He was concealed in the Holy of Holies by a woven curtain that only the incense smoke from the Altar of Incense could penetrate. And three thousand years later He would appear to the nation of Israel again, veiled in the form of a servant.
"In the beginning was the Word...and the Word (Logos) became flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1:1-14).
The Logos that was in the beginning, which was Elohim, became flesh and tabernacled among us. Yeshua is the Logos/Word, the eternal Creator. He is YHVH veiled in human flesh.
Yeshua, the Incarnation of the Elohim of Israel, Who spoke from Mount Sinai to Moses and Israel, came in the likeness of man to atone for sin, yet, depended upon the Holy Spirit to accomplish the work of His Abba, the Father.
"Jesus, full of the Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led around by the Spirit [divine direction] in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil [by divine permission]" (Luke 4:1-2). After His baptism in the Jordon River, Yeshua spent forty days and nights in the wilderness, where He was: (1) tempted by the evil one, and (2) under the special influence of the Holy Spirit. Because of the empowerment of the Spirit, he could see visions and sights not normally visible to unaided mortal eyes; and He could hear voices--both heavenly and otherwise--that are inaudible to un-anointed ears. He was at once both spiritually protected and exposed. The divine enhancement of His faculties would necessary for the time of His trial in the wilderness, and for His ministry. It must be remembered that Yeshua was the Incarnation of Deity, and thus, in the likeness of man, lived and served on earth by the power of the Spirit.
[Note: Tradition informs us that the hill district which borders the road from Jericho to Jerusalem was the scene of the Temptation of Messiah. A hill named Quarantania was where He spent the forty days, we are told. There are many caves in that neighborhood.]
As previously stated, Yeshua, Who was Deity incarnate, was also fully human. To satisfy the demands and requirements of the Father's assignment, He was filled with the Holy Spirit when He undertook His ministry. As we've noted, at the Jordan He was filled with the Set-apart Ruach, and thus Yeshua is a Model for contemporary Believers to realize their need to be "filled with the Spirit" also. Let us understand why He said to His disciples before His ascension, "But you will receive power" (Acts 1:8). He knew that this essential--the infilling of the Spirit, was more important to them than knowledge about the time of the restoration of Israel. So, He simply redirected their attention to receiving spiritual power. We, the saints, must be under the unction of the Spirit, and dependent upon Him in our wildernesses as was Messiah Yeshua in His. It is just about impossible for Believers to live an over-coming life and fulfill one's ministry/service potential without being filled with the Holy Spirit. It is a mistake for us to think that a life and ministry of the caliber we read about in Acts in possible under human power. It just isn't! The Ruach HaKodesh must be allowed to live and minister through us. Without being filled with the Spirit daily, our lives will bear less than the full measure of fruit. Therefore, we should make room and give time for His ministry whenever we meet. Bring back the gold shields, the real thing. See: 2 Chron. 12:9-10.
"And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit..." (Eph. 5:18). Beverage drunkenness is a work of darkness, a foe of godliness, and causes its victims to yield to every sort of debauchery. Paul instead exhorted the Ephesians to open their hearts to the Holy Spirit, and let Him infuse them with vigor, healing joy, exhilaration, holy emotions, songs, hymns, and prophetic utterances. His words are good counsel. The Ruach HaKodesh, Who has been given charge over the Ecclesia, is always our needed Treasure, and the Lifter of our heads and hearts. Again, make room for Him in your prayer life and worship meetings.
Knowing His Voice/Being Led by the Spirit
"...Moses spoke, and God answered by a voice...and the Lord called Moses up to the top of the Mount; and Moses went up. And the Lord said unto Moses, Go down, warn (testify to) the people..." (Exodus 19:19-21).
On the third day after the first exchange between Moses and the Almighty, YHVH came upon Mount Sinai. The majestic, powerful voice would be heard by the entire congregation, not just Moses. First, however, Moses was called up the mountain and told by YHVH that the people must be warned again to keep the boundaries, and not press to "break through unto the Lord to gaze...and perish" (v. 24). Moses heeded His voice and returned down the mountain to restrain the surging congregation. "Then the Lord spoke all these words" (20:1), declaring the Ten Commandments.
We are told by sages that the universe became hushed, soundless when YHVH spoke. "When the Holy One, blessed be He, presented the Torah at Sinai, not a bird chirped, not a fowl flew, not an ox lowed, not an angel ascended, not a seraph proclaimed Holy. The sea did not roll and no creature made a sound. All of the vast universe was silent and mute. It was then that the Voice went forth and proclaimed, 'I AM YHVH your ELOHIM!' (Shemos Rabbah 29:9). When God revealed Himself to Israel, the world fell silent [holding its breath, so to speak], because this moment was pivotal not only to Israel but to all creation; had Israel not accepted the Torah, the universe would have come to an end [see Shabbos 88a]." The Chemosh. Stone edition. page 406.
[Note: Exodus 24 suggests there are four levels of holiness, or stages of sanctification, which correspond to the Tabernacle. With this in mind, commentators teach that Sinai was a type of the Temple. The bottom of the mountain, where the masses stood, corresponds to the area just outside the entry gate to the Temple. The mountain itself was a type of the interior of the Temple courtyard. The cloud, to which Moses was called, corresponds with the Holy Place, the Temple's interior, where the Menorah, Table of Shewbread, and Altar of Incense were kept. The thickness of the cloud corresponds with the Holy of Holies, the place of YHVH's manifest presence and glory, and source of His mighty Voice. By viewing Mount Sinai in this manner, it would not become a distant, isolated historical site only, but would evoke holy recollections and thoughts by remaining in Israel's heart, as an object lesson, in the form of the Temple.]
The people "saw the thunder and the flames, the sound of the shofar and the smoking mountain..." (verse 15). The audience was absolutely overwhelmed, awestruck by the divine display. Covering their eyes and ears, they shrank back in fear, feeling incapable of remaining alive if the sights, sounds, and divine revelations proceeded unchecked. Thus, they called for Moses to be their intermediary. The Almighty wanted, it seems, to bring his people to know Him as Moses did, but they did not want to relate to Him at that deeper, more intense personal level. They opted for Moses to do all the interacting with Elohim instead of themselves. Israel chose to have a mediator receive (instead of themselves) and convey to them the wonderful revelations, experiences, and words of YHVH, rather than remain under the sound and profound influence of His majestic Voice. YHVH allowed this (Deut. 5:28). Moses told the people, "Fear not, for God is come to prove you, and that His fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not" (verse 20). The people retired to their tents, and he returned up the mount and into "the thick darkness where God was" (verse 20).
YHVH had impressed upon Israel the awesome fear [esteem, dread, respect, reverence, and trepidation] of Elohim as a deterrent to sin and disobedience. The motivation of fear is not a particularly noble one, but then Israel was still a child coming into covenant, and thus for them (given their circumstances) this godly "fear" would do for a start. "O that there were such a heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always that is might be well with them, and with their children forever" (Deut. 5:29). [Note: The fear of Elohim is holy reverence, profound awe, righteous honor, pious veneration, devotional respect, saintly trembling, and untainted love united to simple faith. The fear of God is related to the holiness, power, majesty, faithfulness, judgments, and Word of YHVH, and is wholesome. It is not natural fear, such as fearing heights, man, demons, circumstances, and such. Neither is it paranoia or bondage. The true and righteous fear of Elohim is a necessary component of trust which brings balance to a Believer's walk. Among the last words of YHVH spoken through Moses were these: "...and I will make them hear My words, that they may learn to fear Me all the days that they shall live upon the earth" (Deut. 4:10). Fear Him.]
Israel saw and heard YHVH, and learned by experience that the Elohim of Israel, our Creator and Redeemer, speaks to man. "Ye have seen that I have talked to you from heaven" Ex.20:22). Today, divine communication between the Almighty and His saints (holy ones) is usually by His Spirit as a "still small voice" within their spirits, confirming truth, convicting, and bearing witness, and leading. Listen for His prophetic word as you study this week. Pray for the Spirit to visit you with a powerful vision or dream.
Weekly Parsha Commentary Study: Yitro "Jethro"
"Deal bountifully with Your servant, that I may live and keep Your word. Open my eyes, that I may behold wonderful things from Your law" (Psalm 119:17-18).
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, exhortation, and instruction to the student/reader.
Exodus 18:1-20:26(23) [Torah]: Jethro visits Moses/Counsels/Sinai/Moses goes up to God on the Mountain/YHVH speaks to Moses/Moses speaks to the people/Moses goes back up Sinai/He comes down to consecrate the people for the marriage contract-covenant/Torah/Leaders and people accept commandments and conditions/Preparation to enter into covenant agreement/YHVH (Yeshua, the Son and Husband) arrives on the Mount/Trumpets, fire, smoke, shaking/Shofars sound/Moses up the Mount/Moses comes down to warn the people/Ten Commandments declared/People fear YHVH presence and voice/Moses returns up Sinai to receive divine instructions.
Isaiah 6:1-7:14; 9:5-7 [Haftorah]: Another revelation of the Word and Glory of YHVH given to a prophet. The transforming encounter launches powerful prophetic ministry of Isaiah.
Matthew 5:17-32 and Hebrews 12:18-24 [New Testament]: Matthew sections concern the Law and personal relationships. Hebrews speaks of Mount Sinai and Mount Zion.
Mark 7 and 8 [Gospels]: Followers of tradition-religion and true spirituality/The heart of man/Four thousand fed-Yeshua and true religion/Peter's confession of Messiah.
Study Questions:
1. In your opinion, what is the 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 teaching) that unites the parsha, as you see it?
5. Relate the main teaching from the three parsha readings with the assigned Gospel chapters. 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
"Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be prolonged in the land which the Lord your God gives you" (Exodus 20:12).
The Ten Commandments were given to Moses on the Mount and formed the summary of an Israelite's duty to YHVH and his fellow man. They were inscribed on two stone tablets, each one with five commandments. The first tablet's laws concerned man's relationship with YHVH. The second regarded man's relationship with his fellow man. The fifth commandment, cited above, was included among those that deal with the honor and reverence to be shown to the Almighty. This is revealing. When people honor their parents, "God regards it as if they honor Him, for, as the Sages express it: There are three partners in a human being: God, father, and mother. If someone honors his parents, God considers it as if he had honored Him. But if not, God says, I did well not to dwell among them, for if I had dwelled among them they would have tormented Me, as well"(Kiddushin 30b-31a). Our obligation to Elohim requires us, whatever our age, upbringing, or station in life, to show respect and honor to our patents, whether the parents deserve it or not. Parents should be honored for (1) their age, experience and wisdom, (2) their care and contributions, (3) their love and affection (which, as a rule most parents demonstrate), (4) because they are instruments (so to speak) who were created before their children, and through whom their children were given life and brought into the world, (5) because it honors and extols the Almighty. All Ten Commandments were (are) YHVH's basic instructions to Israel on how to love and honor Him and one's neighbor, and thereby live an inwardly and outwardly prosperous life in the land to which they were headed.
The essence of the Law is found in the Shema (Deut 6:4-5). It is love. "And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart..." Yeshua's commentary on the Shema is found in Matthew 22:36-40: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart...thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets." Going further, it could be said that Elohim's commentary on the two great commandments is found in Exodus 20:1-17, the Ten Commandments. The rest of the Torah is a commentary on the Ten Commandments. Taking this to its logical conclusion, it could also be said that the prophets and the writings are commentaries on the Torah, and the Apostolic Writings (the New Testament) comprise a commentary on the Old Testament. "On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets" (Mt. 22:40).
What went on the tablets on Sinai, went into our hearts and minds at the new birth. Ex. 25:16, 21; 32:15-16; 34:1,28; De. 4:13; 10:1-5; 31:25-27; Jer. 31:31-33; Joel 2:28; Acts 2:1-4. "...because the love of God has been poured out [shed abroad] within our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who as given to us" (Rom. 5:5). His love accompanies His Word, and it is placed into our hearts at conversion. The sense of the verse is that we experience, actually feel consciously, His love, and this acts as a convincing assurance [internal conviction] of the hope of our redemption.
Obedience to the fifth commandment is vital for the peace and prosperity of an individual, a community, and even a nation. It comes with a great promise, that by obedience to it one's life may be prolonged in the land. This is the "attrition plan" of YHVH and it makes sense. By it, the upright will endure. The person who has the heart to obey this particular commandment, in all likelihood, will honor the others as well, and carefully pass the standard on to the next generation. Following along, the obedient parent-respecters will thus tend to live longer than the disobedient, and by the process of divine "spiritual selection" at work, the tares are gradually weeded from the wheat community, leaving it stronger and happier under YHVH's blessing. May we remember Solomon's words. "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin [disobedience to His Ten Commandments] is a reproach [a disgrace, a loss of grace and favor, shame, infamy, the condition of one fallen] to any people [country, community, family, person]" (Proverbs 14:34).
The commandments of Elohim are His instructions to man on how to live a peaceful and fruitful life on earth. They will enrich any people. Israel, to whom YHVH's commandments and statutes were first given, will be delivered from her enemies when she recognizes her Redeemer and turns back completely to Torah righteousness. Then her protection from terrorism and other cruel abuses will be assured. Today, Israel's army has the responsibility to protect Israel and ensure the survival of the nation. It is the visible force, and is called the IDF-Israel Defense Force. However there is (thank goodness) another IDF. It is Elohim, and He is the Invisible Defense Force, through which no enemy can penetrate. He compasses completely the nation that practices His commandments.
Young men and women enlist at 18 years of age into IDF, Israel's army, and are sworn in at Masada. Masada is the famous ancient fortress built upon a mountain overlooking the Dead Sea. The fortification was built by Herod but ended up being occupied by a Roman garrison. In 66 C.E. Jewish Zealots took the fortress from the Romans at the start of the first Jewish revolt. When the revolt was put down in the land, about 1000 Zealots (including family members) came to the mountaintop fortress of Masada, which was well provisioned and very defendable, to continue their resistance. The Roman army laid siege to the fortress, and in time built a ramp against the more vulnerable western side of the mountain. After protracted, fierce resistance by the Jews, the Roman soldiers finally broke through and entered the Masada fortress compound in 73 C.E. There they discovered that every Jew was dead from mass suicide, with the exception of one woman and her children.
It is in that place where IDF army recruits are sworn into military service, and as part of the ceremony they vow, "Masada shall not fall again."
Latter Days
"Moses father-in-law said unto him...this thing is too heavy for thee...Hearken now unto my voice, and I will give the counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for the people to Godward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God" (Ex. 18:17-19).
Jethro is recognized by the Torah as giving wise counsel to Moses, who was under the weight of fatigue from writing, teaching, administrating, as well as handling by himself the many disputes and causes of the great congregation. Jethro discerned the situation, gave advice and said, " Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men[ to help..." (verse 21). He listed four general requirements for the men selected to assist Moses as leaders and judges over the people. First, they must be able men", men of accomplishment. Jethro recommended they be men of means who would be less inclined to allow bribes or financial allurements to influence their decision-making. These people would most likely to be wise, have a knowledge of the law, and be able to recognize truth over error in conflict. Secondly, they must "fear God", the Holy One of Israel. Those who reverence YHVH, and hold Him and His Torah in the highest esteem, will not be afraid of man, or be persuaded by syrupy flattery or angry threats. Thirdly, they must be contented "men of truth" who despise the temptations that the love of recognition and money bears. The leaders and judges must be those "hating covetousness", who would reject gratuities and denounce graft. Fourthly, these men would be "rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens." Each man would rule according to his ability, and ascend to higher responsibilities commensurate with his performance. These common-sense recommendations--which should be applied to leadership in all enterprises--would be used by Israel during all their years in the Wilderness.
Following this account, Jethro departed the encampment and returned to Midian to convert his entire family to YHVH and to the Torah. Later he visited Moses again, sages tell us. In Numbers 10:29-32, when he started to leave the encampment the second time to go back to Midian, he was persuaded then by Moses to stay with Israel. The Chumash, Stone Edition (Pg. 400) states that Jethro "accompanied the nation to Eretz Yisrael, where he settled near Jericho."
Moses listened to Jethro and recognized good counsel when he heard it. He acted in accordance to the wise and thoughtful suggestions. However, in the latter days not everyone of Israel will hear good teaching and advice and accept it. "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables" (2 Tim. 4:3-4).
The apostle Paul saw the advance of wickedness in the Ecclesia and spoke to warn ministers, and exhort them to withstand it. In the latter days, he informs the reader, many people will not listen godly instruction from teachers sent by YHVH, but instead will recklessly multiply to themselves self-chosen teachers who will feed their carnal fancies and insatiable, ego-centric soulish appetites with philosophies and religions that are contrary to sound doctrine, but compatible with the works of the flesh. Yielding to the spirit of anti-Messiah (anti-Christ), these with "itching ears" will refuse the Torah/Word, and shun discipline, humility, purity of heart and mind, and turn to heretics for encouragements. Remember King Jeroboam! He had received wonderful promises from YHVH concerning the Northern Kingdom (1 Kings 11:28-39), yet rejected Torah truth, rebelled, and ordained his own priests and seasons, and consecrated pagan feasts for the House of Israel "in the month he devised in his own heart" (1 Kings 12:33). Jeroboam rejected Spirit-inspired counsel and practiced evil, misled Israel, and thereby: (1) had his entire house cursed by YHVH , (2) perished ignominiously, and (3) is known to this day as he "who caused Israel to sin," a disgraceful but descriptive phrase always linked to his name whenever it is mentioned in Scripture.
Today, world-wide media and communication industries transmit words, messages, ideas, suggestions, declarations, and such, flooding the earth with anti-Messiah information and values so profusely that it's impossible to process it all. Inspired and sustained by the anti-Messiah [anti-Christ] spirit, mass media output easily persuades restless and wayward Believers with vain philosophies, innuendo and falsehood. Apostasy can be the result. This occurs when Believers (first) turn a deaf ear to the sound doctrine of the Word of Elohim, which summons people to a consecrated and sanctified life, (secondly) ignore the Spirit, and (thirdly) seek the gratification of lower passions which militate against the good works faith, hope and love, and are contrary to the hopes of redemption. Foreseeing the likelihood, Paul commanded Timothy to "be thou sober in all things" (verse 5). Maintain a watchful attitude, he says, and its more good counsel. Jude exhorts in the same manner, as he addressed in his day the heresy of apostate teachers. "I will put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this..." (verse 5). He warns the readers to contend for the faith they had known for lawless ministers and profuse teachings had entered the assemblies. They: (1) denied YHVH the honor due to Him, and thus were "without God in the world," (2) gave to the world and to sin the allegiance due Him, and "served the creature more than the creator," (3) honored YHVH in the wrong way. They did not worship according to His Torah truth, but offered partial, inconsistent, profane service, and (4) were godless and perverted, "turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness."
In the latter days there is one voice we want to hear! It is His counsel we want to embrace. "He that hath an ear let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Churches [Ecclesia]" Rev. 3:22)
Bless the Land
1. Pray for Israel.
"For the Lord's portion is his people; Jacob is the lot of his inheritance. He found him in a desert land, and in the waste howling wilderness; he led him about, he instructed him, he kept him as the apple of his eye" (Deut 32: 9-10).
2. Pray for America/Pray for your Nation.
"And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil" (Matthew. 6:12-13).
3. Pray for Haiti.
"Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love" (1 John 4:7-8).
4. Sing the Song of the Lord [New Song]. Praise and Worship
"Moreover David and the captain of the host separated to the service of the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun...who should prophesy with the harps [song of the Lord]...all these were under the hands of their father for song in the house of the Lord with cymbals, psalteries, harps...with their brethren that were instructed in the song of the Lord" (1 Chron. 25:1-7).
In the above chapter we note that musical arrangements were made for services in the house/tent of Elohim. Two elements were included: (1) Praise. It is a delight to come into the house of the Adonai, and bring Him thanksgiving and praise whenever we remember Him. The followers of heathen gods have not this privilege, but can only prostrate themselves before false deities in whom there is nothing to honor. But our righteous and merciful Redeemer, the only wise Elohim, is the One Whom we can worship and praise continually, with all our energy and faculties, rendering glory to Him Who hears, sees, and answers prayer. (2) Instruction. The workmen were to "prophesy with the harps." Their function was to declare sacred, inspired words in accompaniment with the instruments. The prophetic word was important and the music was to be subordinated, and used to help the voice accentuate the prophetic utterance, and carry its mood and sense into the soul of the listener. Singing praise to YHVH is first an offering to Him, but in its prophetic function it is also an instruction/exhortation/revelation for listeners. It always tends to elevate them into higher levels of knowledge and experience in the Almighty.
[Note: We are exhorted in Hosea 14:2 with an important principle: "That we may present the calves of our lips [sacrifice of praise and worship words]." There is an abundance of worship forms and methods in the congregations today, and this is very good. However, it is the sacrifice of praise and worship words--words spoken and sung from the inspired human heart--which remain paramount.]
This is therefore what defines the Song of the Lord. It is a consecrated song that skilled and unskilled people may sing and enjoy. David trained skilled men, musicians, and singers, and this devotion to excellence is noteworthy. But far and away, the first and foremost attributes someone must have today for success in such a holy activity are (1) a dedicated heart, and (2) the Spirit's anointing. If those are all you have, you will succeed! Sing.
Conclusion
"And Moses let his father-in-law depart; and he went his way into his own land" (Ex. 18:27).
Jethro's visit to Moses was a blessing, as he wisely advised him to establish a system of courts --much like we have in America, with civil, state, federal district and appeals courts, and the Supreme court--to relieve the prophet-deliverer of the overwhelming burden of having to adjudicate so many cases. Selected leaders would judge common cases. Moses would act as the peoples "supreme court" judge under YHVH.
There is some dispute, however, over whether Jethro was Moses' father-in-law, or brother-in-law. Part of the problem is that the Midianite had a number of names that appear in different places in the Tanach. In Exodus 3:1 he is Jethro, because he "overflowed with good deeds." He is called Jether in Exodus 4:18 [see cross reference] meaning, "he contributed to Torah." He was also called Reuel, "friend of Elohim" in Ex. 2:18; Putiel (Ex. 6:25); and Hobab (Num. 10:29; Jud. 4:11).
New Testament Living
"Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him" (Heb. 10:38).
The righteous enter eternal life by faith, and walk in redemption blessings by faith. It is the essential principle of salvation. By faith we live and by it we wait--for all YHVH's promises to the righteous to be fulfilled. Unlike the people that pulled back from Mount Sinai on the day of visitation, we who are returning to our Hebraic heritage do not draw back. We have tasted and discovered that our Redeemer is good (Ps. 34:8), and therefore want to (as it were) follow Moses up the mountain and right into the cloud. We are not looking for a human intermediary to bring us a revelation or sermon every week. We want see and hear Him also, and go before Him with offerings of praise and worship, encounter His illuminated truth, and enter into His glory ourselves. Away with the Nicolaitans (Rev. 2:15) who get between Elohim and His people with an overload of rituals and regulations. Our place is to pursue Him, get increasingly deeper His Word, and even into the Cloud.
"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who has called you out of darkness [exile] into His marvelous light: Which is time past were not a people [lo-ammi], but are now [ammi] the people of God: which had not obtained mercy [lo-ruhamah], but now have obtained mercy [ruhamah]" (1 Peter 2:9-10).
The Believers were addressed by Peter as one congregation because they were all begotten of one heavenly Father, Whose Life and Torah were in them through faith in Yeshua by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Of course, it's the same for Believers today. We are re-created to fulfill the ancient call to be a chosen people, chosen to be blessed; a kingdom of priests serving Yeshua the King; a holy nation, separated from the world system; a special people, His coveted treasure and possession. And our job is to show forth His praises, His excellencies [the best translation] in the earth.
Show forth His excellencies this week, and while you walk in His light, expect to experience the edges of His radiant Glory!
"If any man hear my voice, and open the door [not draw back], I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me" (Rev. 3:20).
Complete the Study Questions.
To be continued.
Hutch Church, D. Min. / blesstheland@live.com/ www.blesstheland.net
