BLESS THE LAND
PARSHA COMMENTARY
PARSHA COMMENTARY AND STUDY
Noach "Noah"
Bless the Land Written by Hutch Church October, 2009
Torah: Gen. 6:9-11:32
Haftorah: Isa. 54:1-55:5
Sugg. N.T.: 1 Pet. 3:18-22
Gospels/Acts: Matt. 3 and 4
Welcome: This lesson plan is meant to assist Believers, through prayer, study, and worship disciplines, to return to and mature in the kingdom, power, and glory of the God of Israel, which is their Hebraic heritage. In addition, each individual lesson is particularly designed to help those who desire to be instructed/led directly in parsha study, in prayer, and in worship by the Holy Spirit, to hear, discern, and respond appropriately to His voice/word, whatever form it may take. We are living in an hour when Believers must develop their spiritual senses to know the voice/word of the Almighty personally, become mature in the knowledge of the Word and Spirit, and thereby participate more effectually in the fulfillment of restoration and reconciliation prophecies. Hence, our education experience emphasis at Bless the Land is maturity in both Spirit and truth. Therefore, you will find in the year-long parsha commentary course a continual stress on the importance of hearing the voice of YHVH and learning to be led by the Spirit. "For all who are being [regularly, habitually, consistently] led by the Spirit [Ruach] of God, these are the [mature] sons of God" (Romans 8:14).
Commit for the year. Study should only require little more than an hour a day. Persevere in your one-year undertaking. Remain resolved in your holy crusade toward greater revelation from the Word, personal transformation, and intimacy with Yeshua. You'll be the happier for it.
Introduction
"These are the records of the generations of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his time; Noah walked with God" (Gen 6:9).
The Torah states that Noah [Noyach in Hebrew, meaning "Rest"] was a just man. His character was not molded in the likeness of his contemporaries who had become "having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that was in them, because of the hardness of their hearts" (Eph. 4:18). He was the tenth and last of the great antediluvian patriarchs, a prophet to the earth of his time. He also was a sinner justified by his faith in the Gospel of the period, the promise of the seed of the woman. Noah was perfect in the sense that his heart was sincere and upright before YHVH, and his soul was thus susceptible/sensitized to the sustaining graces of the Spirit. He was pious, reverential, and walked with Elohim, as did Enoch before him. We see from Noah's example that only a life of intimate, close fellowship with the Almighty Himself can prevent people from being overcome by the violence and corruption of their period/era, and at the same time promote sensitivity to His voice.
"Then God said to Noah, the end of flesh has come before me" (Gen 6:13).
God had not sought out the ruin of mankind, but the wicked, injurious, corrupt condition of mankind had risen as a stench into the face of YHVH with such disturbing persistence and un-relenting volume that a remedy could no longer be delayed. "The earth [refers to men who had became wholly earthy, lacking of any heavenly qualities] is filled with violence through them" (Gen. 6:13).
Judgment was pronounced--the universal, supernaturally wrought destruction of unrepentant man, and the cleansing/washing for the defiled lands was decreed--but YHVH remembered the righteous. Noah was divinely commissioned to prepare an ark for the deliverance of his house. "Make thee an ark." Noah may have said, "Why?" The answer would have been three-fold. Because (1) the sentence of death has been proclaimed upon man, (2) because it will be the means of your family's deliverance, and (3) it is a test of faith. Though threatened and endangered by the growing wickedness of men, violence of the Nephilim, and the impending flood, Noah by enduring faith went forward for 120 years with his preaching and with the highly detailed, massive boat-building project, and successfully completed the assignment. As did Paul, he could say "...I have finished the course, I have kept the faith..." (Tim. 4:7). Indeed, YHVH's words to Noah were seeds that "fell into good soil, and as they increased, they yielded a crop..." (Mark 4:8).
Following the narrative, Noah and his family were carried safely upon the flood waters by the ark, which came to rest on the mountains of Ararat. The waters returned to their place, as YHVH's remnant was preserved. Noah disembarked into a radically transformed world, and his family probably camped close to the ark, unsure about returning rains. He built an altar, and sacrificed to YHVH a burnt offering, taking of the clean animals and birds from the ark. The earth was thereby sanctified as the smoke of the innocent sacrifices ascended heavenward. And YHVH blessed Noah and his sons, and made a Covenant with him called the Noahic covenant. It was a covenant for humankind sealed by the appearance of a rainbow. It provided for repopulation of the earth, eating of animal flesh but not blood, protecting human life as sacrosanct, execution for the crime of murder, and human government.
Noah heard God's voice because he walked closely with the Almighty, remained pure, and kept His ways for that period. He lived to be 950 years old. After he died the human life span diminished greatly.
Redeemed Israel will experience conditions similar to those of Noah's day in the times ahead. Timothy saw our times while "in the Spirit". "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men will be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy...lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof; from such turn away" (2 Tim. 3:1).
Therefore, as did Noah, the patriarch who lived and labored in two worlds, we also will (1) walk with YHVH while living in a sinful, humanistic world, (2) finish our assignments with enduring faith, and (3) experience the similar marvelous communications and deliverances. "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh...If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit" (Gal. 5:16, 25).
In this Torah passage Yeshua is seen as the Ark of Salvation prepared for all who place their trust in Him. "Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Mt. 11:28).
Hearing His Voice/Being Led by the Spirit
"Now the Lord [YHVH] said to Noah, Enter the ark, you and all your household, for you alone have I found righteous before Me in this time [generation]" (Gen. 7:1).
After 120 years of boat-building labor, and seven days before the commencement of judgment, YHVH speaks to Noah again, telling him to enter the ark with his family. His voice was probably audible, coming from between the cherubim in the garden, which we can assume were still in the earth. Noah was six-hundred years old, but was still alert to the word of YHVH. It is written, "And Noah went in." [Note: The number six is associated with man, and in Scripture is also recognized as a symbol of suffering. For instance, in the Book of Revelation we see the sixth seal, the sixth trumpet, and the sixth vial introducing periods of affliction and suffering.]
Noah heard and obeyed the voice of YHVH. He never trifled with the divine voice, its summons or instructions, but his obedience was immediate and trusting, as should be ours. As a result of his unwearied labor and faith, his salvation was assured. [Note: Good works are the test/proof of true faith. Barren, intellectual, lukewarm faith is not sufficient. Faith that transfigures the soul/revolutionizes the Believer's character and nature, and thereby produces fruit, is saving faith. Remember Paul, who, upon his conversion, intuitively knew that his salvation is not just a personal matter but had national implications as well said, "Lord, what will you have me to do?" (Acts 9:6). See: James 2:14-17.] The same question must be asked by all Ephraimites as they return to their Father's house (Hebraic identity, heritage, destiny, duty).
Hearing the voice/word of the Lord and being directly led by the Spirit, as was Noah, are the duty and privilege of our redemption. The sons of God [redeemed Israel] are to be led, as a way of life and ministry, by the Spirit. But, for whatever reason, some won't or (believe they) can't hear the Almighty when He speaks. This restricting standard must be changed. You and I can hear and discern His voice/word, even at a higher levels. If our cell phones can pick our calls out of the electro-magnetic/micro-wave grid that permeates and envelopes our planet, certainly we (who are more wondrously made) can develop our hearing so we are able discern the voice of our Creator and Redeemer from the din and cacophony that always surround us! He is always communicating, as a divine Parent to His children, and never runs out of personal exhortations, edifications, comforts, instructions, directions, or encouragements to share/impart. We must receive His personal words, which can often be life-changing! He desires intimacy and close fellowship in personal exchanges with each of His beloved children. In this way YHVH seeks a holy and healthy Abba-Israelite, parent-child relationship with each of us. "You shall seek Me and find Me..." (Jer. 29:13). If He didn't mean it, He would not have promised. Pause now, seek Him, and ask Him to confirm this paragraph.
It should be remembered that the ministry of the Holy Spirit is certainly one of communication! John 14:17-18, 25; 15:26, 1 Cor. 12:7-12; 14:1-3.
Read and listen for His voice each week. Learn to wait upon the Almighty and hear/discern His word, which can come to you in different ways and various forms. Develop an intimate, regular dialogue with Yeshua through both the Word and the Set-Apart Spirit (Ruach haKodesh). This year, start your journey of cultivating and perfecting holy hearing and obedient responding, being led by the Spirit. He will reveal Himself to you. See: Jer. 29:13; John 10:3,5,27; 18:37; Rev. 19:10.
There are several things to remember concerning hearing the voice/word of the Almighty and being led by the Spirit. His ministry includes teaching, comforting, transfiguring, empowering, and directing the Body of Yeshua (Congregation of Israel) in life and ministry, through His gifts and fruit, administrations, and offices. And of course He speaks, and communicates the Word of the Lord to the saints for their edification and comfort. His voice/word can be heard audibly, within ourselves or without, as observed with Adam, Noah, the Patriarchs, Joshua, Samuel, David, the prophets, Simeon, Anna, Peter, James, John, Paul, and others. However, often His voice takes the form of illuminated words [rhema] from Scripture, divinely imparted impressions or ideas, inspired thoughts, an inward knowing, prophecy, revelation, inward visions, words of knowledge and wisdom, discerning of spirits and other spirituals/gifts (1Cor. 12), for instance. The Spirit speaks into our regenerate, "born-again" spirit, and through it into our hearts and minds (souls). He speaks Spirit to spirit, Mind to mind, Heart to heart, even Face to face in some cases. See: John; Acts; I Cor. 12; Rom. 12: 1-9.
1. When YHVH speaks to us/conveys to us His word/voice there will result with the Believer an inward knowing accompanied by peace, rest, trust, confidence, assurance, and clarity. Yeshua will be exalted. His voice/word will always be in full agreement with the Torah and all Scripture, and attended/confirmed by one or two witnesses when necessary. His peace within is our internal umpire which declares, "safe" or "out" to each thought, word, voice, idea, and impression that might come to bear upon the soul. See: 1 Cor. 2:13; Jn. 14:27; Isa. 30:15; 2 Cor. 1:20; 13:1.
2. When the enemy/demonic voice speaks to us the consequence of listening will usually be fear, error, doubt of God's Word, conflict, confusion, temptation to sin, restlessness, doubt, and/or guilt. Further, Yeshua will not be exalted. See: 2 Tim. 1:7; Jas. 3:16.
3. When the flesh/carnal nature speaks to us deception, double-mindedness, pride, independence, carnality, lust, timidity, fear and doubt (again), and/or hesitancy to trust Him will be produced. Therefore, learn to carefully distinguish between the various voices/ideas/thoughts/impressions/words that will come to you day by day, and compare what you see or hear with Scripture. See: Romons. 8:5-7; Jer. 17:9-10; Hebrews. 5:12-14; Matthew. 6:22-23.
Since Yeshua, your Husband, desires to communicate on an intimate, personal level directly with you, dedicate this year to read, listen, hear and discern--by reason of practice and persistence--to hearing, knowing and responsive obedience, as did Noah, to the voice/word/instruction/direction/leading of the Spirit. In this way you will enjoy greater intimacy with your redeemer and become much more receptive to a greater anointing/empowerment that will equip you to fulfill your end-time role in His Body, Israel.
Next week we will discuss further the importance of hearing His voice/being led by the Spirit.
Weekly Parsha Commentary Study: Noach "Noah"
"...everyone who partakes only of milk [repetitive, elementary teachings] is not accustomed to the word of righteousness, for he is an infant. But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice [effort, exercise, training] have their senses trained to discern good and evil" (Hebrews 5:14).
Spiritual "infancy/childhood" should never be a lasting condition for any returning Israelite. This temporary stage must be passed through on our way to "manhood" ministry, and left behind as orderly growth toward spiritual maturity in Word and Spirit occurs. To continue in a state of spiritual infancy/immaturity is not only neglectful of divinely restored truth and anointing, it is actually sinful. Believers who are returning to their Hebrew roots are leaving the milk bottle alone--repetitive elementary doctrine, Christian fundamentalism, denominational doctrines which neglect Hebrew roots truth and restrict the Spirit's ministry and moving--and are reaching out for the solid, more nourishing, enriched food of Torah truth and Spirit ministry, both of which truly nurture growing disciples in a balanced fashion. See: Heb. 6:1-2.
Therefore, read the parsha portions and expect to hear from your Elohim. He wants to speak with you and share His heart. Understand that your participation in this study paradigm is a divine appointment, a holy summons to a higher level of discipleship/fellowship with Yeshua in the Word and the Spirit. Emulate Noah and press forward no matter what prevails around you. Remember, before the two sticks, the House of Judah and the House of Ephraim, can be seamlessly joined together into one stick in the Master's hand, the "stick of Hebraic truth" and the "stick of the fullness of the Spirit" must be effectually joined/melded as one "stick of Word and Power" in the Believer's hand. By this, you and I can readily participate in the "restoration of all things". Therefore, as you study, purposely make room for the Ruach haKodesh to work.
Now, study the Torah, Haftorah, and New Testament Scriptures. Find their common themes and teachings, and relate them to yourself as a Believer returning to your Israelite identity and Hebraic heritage.
Genesis 6:9-11:32: Torah: Account of righteous Noah who walked with Elohim/He and family safe-guarded/Sons/Judgment pronounced/Ark built/The Flood/Waters recede/Noah build an altar/Noahic covenant, promise, and rainbow/Drunkenness and shame/Babel/Mixed languages/Dispersion.
Isaiah 54:1-55:5: Haftorah: Isaiah declares YHVH's love for Israel is everlasting. "In righteousness you [all Israel-both houses] will be established."
Matthew. 24:36-44: Brit Chadashah/New Testament: His coming is as in the days of Noah. Consider the similarities/implications to our nation, Israel, our lives.
1 Peter 3:18-22: Brit Cahdashah/New Testament: Baptism/Immersion of the body as a declaration of faith, but only the Blood of Yeshua can cleanse our consciences and remove (not cover) sin.
Again, connect/relate the central Torah, Haftorah, and New Testament teaching, as you have been shown by the Spirit, with the Gospel chapters and the life of Messiah. Trust the Spirit for illumination/revelatory understanding.
Matthew 3 and 4: Compare Noah's flood, John's baptism, the baptism of Yeshua in the Jordan, and Yeshua baptizing Believers in the Spirit and fire. What was/is the purpose of them? The similarities? See: Mt. 3:1-3; 11-12; and 4:12-25.
Note: There is an ongoing controversy, that separates Believers into denominations, over how water baptism should be performed/conducted, by sprinkling or by full immersion? Here is another question that might help us decide the issue: How would you like to be baptized in the Holy Spirit by having a slight sprinkling of His presence and power come trickling upon your forehead...or by full immersion into His presence, power, and holy fire? One baptism speaks of convenience, ease, religion. The other tends toward commitment, relationship, and rich fellowship.
Which would you prefer?
Questions
The following eight questions will be repeated weekly after the list of parsha Scriptures. Remember them as you read. This practice will enhance your learning experience. Listen for His voice. Pray for insight, wisdom, knowledge, and revelation to be imparted to you--directly and personally--from the Holy Spirit as you answer each question. Week by week His personal response to you, concerning every question, will be new, fresh.
Important: For the best results, answer in writing. Keep in mind that the goal of your parsha commentary study is to receive guidance, instruction, direction, understanding--personally and directly--from the Holy Spirit.
1. In your opinion, what is the main teaching/theme of the Torah reading?
2. What is the supporting/complimentary truth found in the Haftorah?
3. What is the corresponding truth/theme in the New Testament passage?
4. Summarize the entire parsha's common teaching/theme as you perceive it.
5. Relate the whole parsha's main truth/teaching with the Gospel/Acts reading. How does Yeshua illustrate/demonstrate your central truth?
6. What does this common truth/central lesson of the combined parsha readings teach you about your Israelite/Hebraic: a. identity, b. birthright, c. heritage, d. destiny, e. duty?
7. Did the Spirit of Truth come upon you, anoint you, and speak to you this week in prayer or study? How?
8. In the study of the Word this week did you sense/perceive/experience intimacy with Ishi Yeshua? Please comment briefly.
Israel
"The water prevailed and increased greatly...all flesh that moved on the earth perished...of all that was on the dry land, all in whose nostrils was the breath of life, died" (Gen. 7:18, 21-22).
The flood came and covered the earth, and Noah and his family were carried safely up in the ark as it floated upon the waters. The deluge was a type of mikvah (bath/baptism), and thus the earth/land was cleansed and sanctified from the defilement of centuries of absorbing the spillage of innocent blood.
The deluge is testimony of the power of YHVH and His faithfulness to His Word. One hundred-twenty years after Elohim had warned of the flood, Noah's doubting, insolent contemporaries were eating, drinking, marrying and confidently crying out, "Where is the promise of His coming, for all things continue as they were from the beginning?" But YHVH kept His word and fulfilled His threat. "The flood came and took them all away" (Mt. 24:39). When the Almighty informed Noah of the coming destruction of his licentious and violent society/world, He also promised to preserve and deliver him and his house/family through the calamitous flood event. These things He did, to the letter.
We observe demonstrated in this story at least three important truths which provide ample incentive for our reverence and respect. First, "It is impossible for God [our Abba] to lie" (Heb. 6:18). Secondly, "There is nothing too hard for YHVH" (Gen. 18:14). Thirdly, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" (Heb. 10:31). Selah.
But there were other floods of which the prophets spoke, and they took different forms.
"So shall they fear the name of the Lord from the west, and His glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift a standard against him" (Isa. 59:19).
Isaiah prophesied that the strong and seemingly invincible army of the king of Assyria would come up like a flood of waters, like the Euphrates River when it over-flows its banks, and sweep away Israel. But concerning that event a promise was made, that YHVH will raise up a standard against the enemy king, and destroy him and his company. [Note: The "standard" was highly prized symbol in war, and had written on it the victories and conquests of renown of the king it represented. The sight of the king's banner waving above the fray would inspire and galvanize soldiers would fight with greater courage and determination. It was considered an honor to carry the standard--or guide-on/banner--into war, and in fierce battles men were known to rally and actually die in heaps around the standard-bearer.]
Inscribed on King Yeshua's (YHVH Nissi's) banner are His many victories, which include the victory of: truth over falsehood, righteousness over sin, humility over pride, purity over corruption, health over sickness, provision over lack, power over weakness, wisdom over confusion, revelation over ignorance, life over death, heaven over hell, and His born-again, Spirit-filled disciples overcoming the pride of life, the lust of the eye, and the lust of the flesh. The standard He raised up for Israel in that conflict with Assyria was the Torah and the Spirit. His promise (truth) and His power (Spirit), melded together and came upon the battleground and (1) supernaturally vitiated (weakened) the heart/spirit/resolve of the Assyrians, (2) confused the powers, principalities, and plans of the enemy, and (3) quickened Israel in body and soul for fighting. The battle was a rout. It was common in ancient Israel for the Spirit to strengthen a person/people in combat. "And Samson said, With a jaw [jawbone], heaps upon heaps, with the jaw of an ass have I slain a thousand men" (Jud. 15:16). He will anoint us also.
YHVH had promised another flood, not of actual water, but one of horses, soldiers, and weapons. It came as Isaiah prophesied, to do its terrible work. However, in the face of the glory of YHVH's standard it receded/retreated/was swept away. And Israel was victorious.
In Revelation 12:15-16 we read of modern-day flood, one the Apostle John saw in his apocalyptic vision, that we returning Israelites want to be aware of in this hour of the restoration of truth. "And the serpent poured [threw] water like a river [flood] out of his mouth after the woman, so that he might cause her to be swept away with the flood." Of course, the word flood signifies catastrophic misfortune, and typifies all manner of destruction the enemy would want to inflict upon both houses of Israel, the Woman. The river or flood symbolizes the afflictions to which Israelites will be subjected in the end-times. But the word "flood" can also apply to the deluge of words, heresies, falsehoods, and humanistic teachings that flows like a swelling river of mud into the world, carrying away unsuspecting, undiscerning people into the errors of Cain, Korah, and Baal. [See Jude.] This flood is occurring today, and, among other things, is turning people away from restoration truth. For our encouragement, the warning is followed with the assurance. "And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon [father of lies] cast out of his mouth." We have, once again, the promise of miraculous preservation, a banner under which to rally as we abide in Him. The enemy will be turned back and Israel will prevail
Israel has a long history of divine deliverances from floods of oppression. Her heritage includes an extensive record of divine interventions on her behalf to establish and prosper her in the land. YHVH's love for Israel started with the favor and friendship He bestowed upon the patriarch Abraham. The Patriarch emigrated, at the command of the Almighty, from idol-infested Mesopotamia to the Promised Land, then called Canaan, and he settled and prospered there. Later, Joshua conquered Canaan after Israel had come out from Egypt and had spent forty formative years in the wilderness. Israel possessed the land and built a nation, but were dispersed centuries later. This Diaspora lasted until the nineteenth century, when small numbers of Jews began making aliyah to the Land. Through the struggles of the early Zionist movement to re-claim Israel, the Jewish people rejoiced as the ancient homeland of Judah (and all the twelve tribes) became the state of Israel in 1948. Jewish people continue to immigrate to the Land, some because of their religious faith, others for a stable home, a job, a new beginning, or to escape persecution. They have endured floods of invasions, terrorism, and condemning words and threats, but YHVH remains with them, to deliver them, and cause them to prosper in the Land, as He has promised. People from all around the world come to Israel because it is a democracy offering hope and sanctuary. There is a minority of non-Jews living in the Land also, comprising about twenty percent of the population.
The Zionist dream is for all Jews to be gathered back to the Land. YHVH's dream, as revealed in His prophetic word, is for all Israel, all twelve tribes, to return and settle in their ancient homeland. And this Word, despite what floods of resistance might be cast up and loosed against it, He will surely bring to pass also. And He...shall assemble the outcasts of [the house of] Israel, and gather together the dispersed of [the house of] Judah from the four corners of the earth" (Isa. 11:12).
See also: Isa. 11:11-14; 27:13; Jer. 3:14-15, 18; 23:3,7,8; 30:10; 31:4-10,13-21, 27-28; 32:37; 33:7, 23-26; 50:19; Ezek. 36:24; 37:14, 21-22; 39:25-28; 47:13-48:29; Hos. 1:10; 2:17-20; Amos 9:9; Zechariah 10:3-10.
The Latter Days
"They said, come, let us build for ourselves a city, and a tower whose top will reach into heaven, and let us make for ourselves a name...So the Lord scattered them abroad from there over the face of the whole earth..." (Gen. 11:4, 8).
Following the flood, the conflict between the Kingdom of God and the kingdoms of the world is symbolized by the story of Nimrod. There we see the world's ungodliness, rebellion and antagonism toward monotheism/the rule of the One True God further expressed in the building of the unholy city/tower on the Plains of Shinar by men migrating from the east. Eden was now a distant memory, but had probably been the antediluvian world's true worship center, where people could come, by way a blood sacrifice, near to the Shekhinah Presence that was between the Cherubim, which had probably remained in the garden. However, that day was gone. The next world worship center would wait until Israel was settled and Solomon's Temple was built in Jerusalem. The tower of Babel [Migdal Bavel, in Hebrew] was an enormous tower structure built in the ancient city of Babylon, the capital of Nimrod's kingdom. The builders of Babel were ambitious, and wanted to make for themselves "a name". It's possible that rather than seek YHVH in Spirit and truth, they thought they would rebuild a worship center, another "Eden", to glorify themselves and establish an oppressive, society-controlling world religion. Perhaps, being filled with pride, they did not want to "dwell in the tents of Shem" (Gen. 9:27), and distained what they perceived as Noah's prophesied exaltation of the Shemites, hoping to pre-empt them. Or they simply fell prey to the lust for glory and power resident within the fallen nature of mankind, and were therein compelled forward in their rebellious, unholy, doomed enterprise. In any case, we learn quickly from this display of arrogance in the face of YHVH, that if anyone must be ambitious, let it be for sanctification and righteousness, and not for material and temporal greatness. For such godly qualities prosper the souls and societies of mankind.
The city was designed to be great, able to fend off invaders and impressive in appearance. The central tower that dominated the skyline reached "unto heaven". It seems that the tower complex was to become: (1) the symbol and center of their godless, humanistic, unholy esoteric sciences which honored/recognized no authority or power other than itself, and (2) a headquarters from which an exalted, occultic priesthood could attempt exert force and control over people and society. Its source of inspiration and empowerment was totally demonic.
The people, of one language and intention started their work hopefully, and with determination and enthusiasm. Progress seems to have been made, but suddenly, "they left off to build the city". YHVH had come down to inspect their work and motive. Babel was judged, the people were chastised, and their one language was divided into many languages. Not being able to communicate as before, the various peoples were scattered abroad, taking their penchant for religious towers and priestly pyramids with them. The unfinished work was/is called Babel, meaning "confusion". The legacy of the Tower Builders of Shinar is a name that represents the epitome of man's foolish rebellion against YHVH to this day.
There are lessons we can glean from the Tower episode. First, misguided ambition (a common trait) leads to sin. The spirit behind the Tower of Babel was the spirit of anti-Christ/anti-Messiah, a confederate spirit of confusion and pride, opposed to the Torah and Spirit of Truth. It tends to turn things upside down. Under its spell, right becomes wrong, good becomes bad, truth becomes error, man becomes the center of life and not YHVH, men wear woman's cloths, women fight in the octagon, Arafat gets the Nobel Peace Prize, evil is exalted, righteousness is belittled, and so forth. As this principality manipulated/pressed the Shinar people into continual sin, they became enlarged in their own eyes, their estimate of YHVH was diminished, and He eventually became inconsequential to them. This is always the subtle outworking of rebellion and sin in the hearts of men. Secondly, it is foolish to try to resist YHVH. His prophetic word will come to pass. Thirdly, His power is unabated, irresistible, and He will fulfill His purposes. Fourthly, YHVH's ability to scatter the tower builders of Shinar is matched by His ability to gather and reconcile into one the two houses of Israel, as He has prophesied through His prophets. Fifthly, we should be always awed at His poetic justice. On one hand, the rebellious are given divided tongues that confuse and scatter. On the other hand, on the Day of Pentecost disciples are given cloven tongues and speak foreign languages which are understood and that unify them in power. And again, on one hand the earthy, clay Tower of Confusion, Babel, rises from the baked soil of Shinar and is cursed and abandoned. [Josephus (Antiquites) declared the tower was eventually overthrown in a strong wind.] On the other hand, we see in Revelation the New Jerusalem, heavenly and golden, descending to crown the New Earth, blessed and prepared for Yeshua's Bride. And what are the returning Israelites (from both Judah and especially Ephraim), who are being gathered from the nations and from every tongue [language], doing today in growing numbers? They are returning to a single language [always the great unifier of a people group] by studying Hebrew. Amazing! Our Abba is very good at binding Babel and turning things right-side up, at the exactly the right time, and in precisely the right way. He confirms His Word in miraculous and creative ways, right in the faces of awe-struck people. "Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand" (Isa. 41:10). Amen.
There are "tower builders" in every nation today, people who are totally enlarged in their own sight, and preoccupied with using their lives to build Babylonish monuments that glorify themselves, not YHVH. Many are Israelite. The descendants of the ten tribes of Israel are scattered in the nations, particularly in the west, and are the leaders and innovators in the more prosperous countries. All of these nations proudly exhibit a Babylonish nature/character, and therefore corruption, materialism, covetousness, and sensuality are voraciously eroding their economic, religious, and political systems. Ephraim and Manasseh are foremost, and figure prominently in the United Kingdom and in the United States. It was prophesied that they would grow in numbers, attain prominence and power, be corrupted, and involved in wars. America is a type of spiritual Babylon, a nation existing with a mixture of truth and paganism, good and evil, right and wrong. We have become a people whose hope for prosperity and peace rests in political agendas and religious institutions, and YHVH is calling this nation to repentance now. While Ezekiel 38 and 39 speak of the judgment of Israel in the latter days, it does not necessarily speak of the actual land, but primarily of the people of Israel who are still in the nations, promoting and enjoying Babylonish life-styles while living in exile in quasi-religious, industrialized Christian nations. Thus the shadow of judgment has lengthened greatly across the contented, prosperous landscape of western nations, particularly those who continue to reject His Word (Ten Commandments) and Spirit (conviction). The warning to the modern-day tower builders [individuals and nations] is beeping furiously, as a smoke alarm in the night. The specter of tribulations looms larger each year, though few are really awakening. Tea parties and town-hall meetings, while admirable, will not bring revival--which is a return to the original, life-filled Apostolic faith. But after the trials and judgments come, and they will, Judah, Ephraim/Israel, and others who were once satisfied with their homes of ease in exile, will turn from their sin and back to their identity, true spiritual heritage, and the Land. Gen. 48:16-26; 49:25; Deut. 7:6; 28:1-14; 33:13-17; Isa. 1-4; Ezek. 37-39; Zech. 14. Hos. 1:10.
For us, then, who follow Yeshua in these latter days of challenges and tests, we have His encouraging Word of assurance of victory despite any circumstances. "And I will deliver thee out of the hand of the wicked and I will redeem thee out of the hand of the terrible" (Jer 15:21).
Bless the Land
1. Pray for Israel, and America.
Be led by the Ruach haKodesh in your intercession.
2. Sing the Song of the YHVH to/over Israel.
"Now the whole earth[people] used the same language and the same words" (Gen 11:1).
The entire population of the earth is referred to here, and not just the people of Shinar, as having at one time one language, or one lip, which early scholars believe to have been Hebrew. Some declare that Abraham spoke Aramaic, but that the Patriarch learned Hebrew from the Canaanites who had over-run and displaced the earlier Semites, from whom they had learned/adopted Hebrew. It is said that primitive Hebrew is the early Semite tongue out of which came regular Hebrew, Arabic, and Aramaic.
The original birthright of mankind was a common language, which sinful man lost, but which will be returned to His redeemed people Israel in the "restoration [true revival: a return to the original, God-ordained, divinely ordered, life-filled condition; i.e., Hebrew roots and Spirit.] of all things about which God spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets from ancient time" (Acts 3:21).
Unity of language bonds people together. Zionist Eliezer Ben Yehuda [Eliezer Yitzhak Perlman] understood this truth, and dedicated his life to laboring for the establishment of Hebrew as the official language for Jews settling in Israel. He lived from 1858 until 1922, before Israel had been officially recognized as a state, but believed that for Israel to become a living nation again two things had to happen. The Jews would have to return (1) to the land, and (2) to the language of their ancient ancestors, which was Hebrew. Through this, he reasoned, the Jews would become united. He succeeded in his inspired, unflagging efforts. Though Eliezer ben Yehuda died and was buried in Jerusalem, Hebrew is alive once again, and established as the national language of Israel.
Unity, camaraderie, and life/vitality are also established when the Spirit restores YHVH's redeemed people to (1) their Hebraic heritage, and (2) hearing/understanding the Word/voice/language of the Almighty.
Likewise, releasing a personal or corporate prophetic message in the language of a spiritual song that comes through an anointed and yielded person is an important part of the universal heritage of Believers. The new, inspired "new song of the Lord" reveals Yeshua to the listeners, and when released by the Spirit deepens worship and inspires revival.
"Then Hezekiah gave the order to offer the burnt offering on the altar. When the burnt offering began, the song of the Lord also began with trumpets, accompanied by the instruments of David, king of Israel" (2 Chron. 29:27). The language of the entire passage indicates great force and intensity of worship, with rising degrees/levels (as with heat) of respect, reverence, and profound adoration to Him "who is God over all, blessed forevermore", as the Holy Spirit released the song of the Lord upon the congregants. All in attendance of the service brought in sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving offerings, and hearts were filled with joy as the king, ministers, and people returned to the Lord, renewed their covenant, and YHVH's displeasure with Israel turned away. See: Heb. 2:12.
Remember, the Song of the Lord is a prophetic, transformative, spiritual song of adoration given and influenced by the Spirit and the indwelling Word, and sung/played through yielded vessels. It is inspired, unrehearsed, and magnifies/reveals Yeshua. See: Eph. 5:18-20; Col. 3:16. Pray for His song to come upon you this week. Start by singing the Scriptures, then wait for His words to come to you. Sing in tongues and then with understanding. As the Spirit sings into your spirit, hear and sing His words out loud. They may be short and simple phrases at first, but continue to sing them out anyway. You will be revived and encouraged. Practice among friends this week. Singing the song of the Lord is not hard. Like the gift of prophecy [edification, exhortation, comfort], the song of the Lord is received by (1) direct, initial inspiration from the Spirit, or (2) from the Spirit in response to prayer and faith. Singing His new song will help individuals, as well as the whole Body of Messiah, to grow and flow more easily/readily in the Spirit. Sing His song over Israel this week.
In the coming weeks we will discuss further the nature, purpose, and benefits of singing of the new Song of the Lord.
Conclusion
In this hour of the Ecclesia's return to its Hebrew roots, the restoration and reconciliation of the House of Judah and the House of Ephraim, and the flood of anti-Messiah media, it's important for us to be hearers of the word of the Lord and bring exhortation and edification to the Body of Messiah. "He sent His Word and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions" (Ps. 107:20).
1. Complete all the Study Questions.
2. Complete Your Prayer Journal. Minister to Yeshua in your morning and evening sacrifices of prayer, study, and worship and carefully record your experiences with Him. Use the four point guide presented below as a help.
"...and His sheep hear His voice, and He calls His own sheep by name, and leads them out...and the sheep follow him because they know His voice" (John 10:3-4).
A. Did you experience/encounter Yeshua's manifest Presence this week as you worshiped and ministered to Him? B. Did you hear the voice of the Spirit? C. Are your senses being trained/exercised to discern His voice/word? D. Have you met with others this week to pray together, and to practice recognizing and ministering the gifts of the Spirit as referenced in First Corinthians Twelve? What were the results?
