BLESS THE LAND
PARSHA COMMENTARY
Parsha Commentary Study
Va Yetze "And he went out"
Bless the Land
Written by Hutch Church
November, 2009
Torah: Genesis 28:10-32:2(3)
Haftorah: Hosea 12:13-14:9 Sugg. N.T.: John 1:43-51 Gospels/Acts: Matthew 15 and 16
Welcome: "To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting" (James1:1)
The Bless the Land lesson/commentary plan will help Believers, through prayer, study, and journal exercises, return to and grow in the kingdom, power, and glory of the Elohim of Israel. Each individual lesson is designed to help students who truly want to be instructed/led directly by the Holy Spirit in parsha reading to hear, discern, and respond appropriately to His voice/word in whatever form it might take. Read one section at a time.
We are alive in a time when the Saints must develop their spiritual senses to know the voice/word of the Almighty personally, become complete in their knowledge and experience of the Torah (Word) and Spirit, and thereby participate effectually in the fulfillment of end-time restoration prophecies. Hence, our education emphasis at Bless the Land Ministry is learning from the Word and from the Spirit for all Israel. Therefore, you will find in our one-year parsha commentary course the continual accent on the importance of (1) hearing the divine, supernatural voice of the Spirit, and (2) learning to be led by the Spirit. "For all who are being [regularly, consistently] led by the Spirit, these are the [mature] sons of God" (Rom. 8:14).
Be committed to growth and working for the restoration of all Israel: "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not" (Gal. 6:9).
In the verse Paul encourages the Galatians to persevere (continue) in doing good works. In this way, he affirms, YHVH would be glorified, the New Covenant Ecclesia would be enlarged and prospered, and the Galatians' own rewards would be increased. He was well aware that friction with the world, the ingratitude of people, the coldness of society and its general opposition to righteousness, along with physical and emotional fatigue would wear upon their moral commitments. Therefore, he exhorted the Galatians (and by way of them, us today) by reminding them that their full reward would come with the resurrection of the just, and that it would be in proportion with their abundant fruit and labors. "We are, as God's workmanship, created unto good works" (Eph. 2:10). With that is mind, persevere in your journey toward greater understanding of the Torah/Word, personal spiritual maturity, preparation for Spirit-filled service, and intimacy with Yeshua, your husband. You will be rewarded for your effort in this life, and in the one to come. "He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him" (Heb. 11:6).
Introduction to Va Yetze "And he went out"
Last week: "When Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob [again], and sent him away to Padan-aram to take a wife from thence, and that he blessed him and gave him a charge...and that Jacob obeyed his father and his mother...then went Esau to Ishmael..." (Gen. 28:6-9).
In the previous parsha, Jacob was blessed by Isaac--again--as he separated from his family (and domestic stress) "and he went out" to find a wife. Esau finally realized he had blundered badly in marrying two Canaanite women, and sought a wife from the people of Ishmael in a tardy and ineffective attempt to regain his parents' favor. The difference in the spiritual character of the two men, which would prevent comradeship and keep them apart from this point onward, is illuminated by their vastly differing responses to their parents' wishes for their marriages. May we remember this and emulate Jacob, that our own generations will also live under the domestic blessing of Elohim. "Honor thy father and thy mother that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee" (Ex. 20:12).
This week: "And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran' (Gen. 28:10).
VaYetze is the first of the last six parshas in Genesis, and all of them feature Jacob prominently, who was the last of the patriarchs. In the Torah, the Israelites are referred to as Benei Yisrael, which means "the descendants of Israel". Israel is Jacob's other, divinely given name. Though Jacobs children--twelve sons and one daughter--were not perfect people, they were nevertheless raised and educated in the knowledge of YHVH. There were no departures among their ranks to other gods. For this reason he is known as the eponymous father of the Israelite people. [eponymous; adjective: of, relating to, or being the person for whom something is or is believed to be named.]
As Jacob journeys (on the same road that Eliezer, Abraham's servant, traveled decades earlier to meet Rebekah)) he comes to Bethel where his spends the night, and there "...he dreamed. And behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven [The ladder is said to represent Torah, the bridge that rightly connects heaven and earth. This is the Messiah. It is also said to represent Mt. Sinai where the Torah was given to the whole family.]; and behold the angels of God [ministers to the heirs of salvation]...and behold, the Lord stood above it [revealing the grace and mercy present in the Old Covenant, and the open pathway of direct, personal approach into His presence to be unveiled in the New Testament]" (Gen. 28:12-13). Heaven is opened over Jacob. A divine visitation and holy words of assurance encouraged the lonely traveler. "Your descendants will become like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out [break forth, like a flood, especially after Israel is divided and dispersed to the nations]...and in you and in your descendants [seed] shall all the families of the earth be blessed. And behold, I am with thee..." (Gen. 28:14-15). This affirmation of the covenant He had made with Abraham and Isaac was the beginning of many personal and direct communications with which the Almighty One of Israel favored Jacob.
[Note: Read and be encouraged. Overview/Art Scroll/Commentator connects the phrase "As the dust of the earth" with the following thought/rendering: "Only after your offspring shall have become as degraded as the dust of the earth shall they spread out powerfully westward, eastward, northward, and southward. As the sages have taught, God's future salvation will come only after Israel has experienced much degradation. Ephraim's punishment has ended, and Judah is in the Land. Please read all of Isaiah 51:21-52:2. "...hear now thou afflicted, and drunken but not with wine...behold I have taken out of thy hand the cup of trembling...But I will put it into the hand of them that afflict thee; which have said to thy soul, bow down, that we may go over...Awake, awake ; put on thy strength, O Zion; put on thy beautiful garments..." The prophet speaks to a pitiful, helpless, mocked nation, a people who have become stupefied, humiliated, despondent, feeling abandoned. They are summoned by a strong, corrective, but friendly voice to rise up, stand up, to awaken from a dangerous, guilty, spiritual sluggishness. They are told that as they respond, YHVH will turn their shame and humiliation into triumph! Returning Ephraimites can learn from this word, that though we were deservedly degraded as dust, and scattered to the nations because of unrepentant idolatry and paganism, yet as we responded to His searching voice to arise and recover faith in Elohim, and as we hearken in the day of restoration of Spirit and Truth, there draws ever closer the restoration prophesied for all Israel. Consequently, for those who acknowledge His gracious Word and return to His blessed ways there will be (1) peace instead of turmoil, (2) usefulness instead of shameful helplessness, and (3) joy instead of despair and misery. This is the end-times portion for the "dust" of Jacob."]
Jacob was like his grandfather Abraham, in that he had to separate from his home and family and pursue his own destiny. Thus, "he went out", departing from the comforts and familiarity of his home, as had Abraham years earlier, to face the rigors and demands of a challenging world. Only by the test of faith, endured through an extended, challenging time, would Jacob mature, and the words of promise later come to pass.
Jacob's life demonstrated to Believers that each of us has a past, an old life we must depart from in order to accept the challenge of pursuing YHVH's prophetic word, and to make our own contribution to the restoration of all things. Elohim's voice spoke to Jacob, personally assuring him that YHVH would be in continual attendance with him in his own pilgrimage. As Jacob was sent by Isaac, we are sent by Yeshua, who has spoken the same encouragement to us, "Go ye therefore...and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the world" (Mt. 28:1-20).
The Torah portion goes forward with the story, telling of Leah and Rachel, Jacob's marriage to them, his relationship with their two handmaidens, Zilpah and Bilhah, the eleven children that are subsequently born, Jacob's labors, Laban's treachery, Jacob's flight with his family, and Laban's pursuit and treaty. In all of this there is noticeable an interesting parallel with Jacob's saga, and Israel's descent into Egypt. The following comparative sketches illustrate the wisdom and goodness of YHVH to His people, and how He works things together for our good and the fulfillment of His promises.
Jacob was forced to go to Padan-aram ["and he went out"] where, at first, he was well received by Laban. There Jacob married, had children, and his family grew. He worked for Laban, but Jacob eventually is tricked and abused, but prospered under difficult circumstances. Laban became subtly treacherous, and then hostile. YHVH observed Jacob's conditions and told him to leave. Jacob fled with his family and great wealth. Laban was informed, became enraged and pursued after him. After a climatic meeting and agreement, Laban turned and left for his home empty-handed, and Jacob ascended/continued toward Canaan to face another conflict. His adversaries (Esau and his host) met him, later turned their own way, and left the territory. Jacob remained to settle in the Land of Promise.
Now, let's look at Israel and note the similarities. Jacob's/Israel's family and household were forced (by famine) to descend into Egypt ["and he went out" ]. At first, they were well received by Pharaoh, as Joseph and his brothers grew their families in the Goshen. They shepherded their flocks, labored, multiplied and prospered. The new Pharaoh became fearful, and oppressed them, taking advantage of their servitude. YHVH observed Israel's perseverance despite Egypt's intensifying cruelty. He provided a great deliverance and Israel left Egypt accompanied by great wealth and well-being. Pharaoh was informed of their progress and pursued in a rage. There is a climatic end where Pharaoh and his horde were swept away. Israel eventually ascended/returned to Canaan and confronted enemies. After defeating thirty-nine heathen kings, Israel retained and settled the Land of Promise. In both cases, Jacob/Israel went out from Canaan, multiplied, prospered, overcame adversity, and re-settled Canaan.
The parallel events reinforce this truth: The power and presence of Elohim, despite hindrances, conflict, and oppositions, guides and shapes personal and national events for the fulfillment of His Word, and that He uses current situations as fore-shadows of the future, that the discerning might perceive and act in wisdom.
"For we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them that are called according to His purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren" (Rom. 8:28-29).
Here is another example. The story of Jacob and Laban is one of conflict. The relationship between his wives, particularly Leah and Rachel, which was also affected with rivalry and conflict, foreshadowed the contention between their children, Judah and Joseph, and the eventual division and discord between the Northern Kingdom, Ephraim/Israel, and the Southern Kingdom, Judah.
Unfortunately, strife and divisiveness between Leah and Rachel has existed since the exiles of both the houses of Judah and Ephraim, but the prophet Ezekiel saw an encouraging and hopeful vision that we see beginning to take form today. "...Thus saith the Lord God; behold, I will take the stick of Joseph, which is in the hand of Ephraim, and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of Judah, and they shall be one in mine hand" (Ezek. 37:19).
If you have a problematic past of conflicts and disappointments, take heart from the story of Jacob and Laban. Listen for and obey His directions, for "...with God nothing shall be impossible" (Luke 1:37).
Knowing the Holy Spirit/Ruach ha Kodesh
"So Jacob rose early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put under his head and set it on a pillar and poured oil on the top. He called the name of the place Bethel..." (Gen. 28:18-19).
Oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Symbols (or metaphors) tell us what the Spirit is like, and they include oil, water, fire, wine, wind, a river, and a dove. We will discuss all of these in another parsha. In this study we will come to know the Holy Spirit/Ruach ha Kodesh better as we look at some of the things the Spirit does.
Keep in mind that we want to know the Holy Spirit well. He will exalt Yeshua in all things, and always draw us closer to Him, into a more sublime union with Him. He is holy, set apart, and likewise leads us into holiness and sanctification. His testimony will always agree with Scripture, of which He is the Author. He is gentle also, and will not shove, pressure or hurry anyone.
Two important aspects of knowing someone are (1) discerning their attributes [last parsha we discussed His qualities] and (2) understanding what they do. Therefore, in this parsha we are going to look at some of the things the Holy Spirit does; we are going to discuss His ministry, His work. You will notice that all He does is to exalt Yeshua, illuminate the Torah (Pentateuch, and all divine revelation) and edify Believers. Remember, an it, a weight, or a force cannot do these things we will mention, only Elohim. Note: Please read each Scripture. He will speak to you through them.
1. "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you' (John 14:26). He teaches/instructs you about all the things of Elohim, and yourself.
2. "But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of Truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me" (John 15:26). He speaks the truth, and gives testimony of Yehsua ha Mashiach.
3. "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come" (John 16:3). He guides us in truth, in the Scriptures, and imparts knowledge and revelation.
4. "And when he will come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment" (John 16:8). He convicts the conscience, reveals sin, convinces of error.
5. "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit Himself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God" (Rom. 8:26-27). He prays for you, on your behalf, and through you on behalf of others.
6. "As they ministered unto the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them" (Acts 13:2). He gives orders and commands.
7. "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Spirit hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which He has purchased with his own blood" (Acts 20:28). He makes appointments, and establishes the saints in their callings and gifting.
8. "...in whom also after that ye believed [trusted Messiah], ye were sealed by that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory" (Eph. 1:13-14). He seals the promise of YHVH into the Believer's heart.
9. "But you are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man hath not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness...but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God" (Rom. 8: 9-14). He molds/shapes the life of every Believer to the life of Messiah.
10. "But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be the Spirit of God dwell in you" (Rom. 8:9; Also see: John 14:17). He indwells-lives within-each Believer and is a Counselor and Comforter forever.
The Holy Spirit has been sent so we, as Yeshua's disciples, can enter into, live in, and demonstrate increasingly the Kingdom of Elohim. We grieve Him with anger, malice, slander, and unbelief. We please Him when we acknowledge His presence with sensitivity, yielded wills, forgiveness for others, and gentleness. He is our Comforter. He exalts the Master. Let's get to know Him better. In the next parsha we will discuss His ministry/work/purpose further as these are revealed through His symbols.
Knowing His Voice/Being led by the Spirit
"And behold, the Lord stood above it and said, I am the Lord God of the father Abraham, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed..." (Gen. 28:13).
YHVH came, not just to announce his Name, but to personally renew to Jacob the holy, precious promises that He had earlier/previously given to his fathers, and to thus open up the way for further communication with Jacob. His voice came in the form of a dream. Two significant things: (1) Jacob is told/heard that the small piece of land on which he lay--and that small piece represented the entire land of Canaan--will be given to him, and to his descendents. (2) The site of his dream (Bethel, meaning House or Temple of Elohim) was the future Holy of Holies, and thus it symbolized that the whole land was filled/fused with the holiness of the Set-Apart One of Israel. The Land is anointed. In the light of this truth read and ponder the following Scriptures Is. 11:13; Jer. 3:14-15; Ezek. 36:24-29; Amos 9:11; Zech. 13:2-5.
Many people hear His voice at some time or other, and regular communication with Elohim is highly desirable and possible, but sincere desire and effort are required to maintain the blessed estate. In the dream Jacob saw the ascent that was required to reach YHVH. He saw angels travel up and down the ladder with ease, but perceived that mankind would have to struggle, and sustain an ardent desire and effort to remain in intimate union. But His voice said, "I am with you", to support and guide you. To us He says, "I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you."
We have heard enough from our own hearts and minds, and chased enough of what our eyes have coveted. We need to be separated ["and he went out"] from our old lifestyles, religion, and carnality, embark upon His pathways of righteousness as did our father Jacob. We can receive dreams, visions, and hear from Him also.
The Holy One of Israel will speak to us that which needs to be heard, and His voice, as we shared last week, can take different forms. A look at Elijah will be helpful in our discussion.
"...stand on the mount...and the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains...but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind and earthquake...and after the earthquake a fire...and after the fire a still small voice" (1 Kings 19:11-12).
In chapter nineteen Ahab recounts to the headstrong, imperious Jezebel all of the events of Elijah's astounding, supernatural, divinely orchestrated victory over her false prophets, and she is filled with humiliation, and seething rage. One would think that after hearing such an amazing testimony of the reality and power of YHVH, that conviction and repentance would have shortly followed. Not so with Jezebel. Her blind eyes and stony heart were inured, immune to any evidence and grace of the Most High. She took out the ancient equivalent of a "contract" on Elijah, who, upon hearing about it, fled for the hills. Elijah went on a forty day journey to Horeb, where Moses had encountered the "burning bush", and probably within sight of where the law was given. It was holy ground. There, he retired to a cave, perhaps the location from where Moses witnessed the Shechinah. Out of his zeal for the honor of Elohim, Elijah interceded against the apostasy of Israel. [We are called to love our enemies, not the resolute enemies of YHVH.] The Almighty had Elijah, a man of action, stand on the mount and passed by him to answer him with signs concerning Israel, and spoke through frightening visions. First there was "a great and strong wind that rent the mountain...and break the rocks..." This was a vision of wrath coming on the rulers and people through invasion of an army. The second vision was, "...after the wind an earthquake." This was a vision of civil and ecclesiastical revolution. The third vision was, "...after the earthquake a fire." This was a vision/symbol of immediate divine judgment from Elohim. De. 4:24; Ps. 18:12-14; Jer. 48:45. Then, after the fire, "...a still small voice."
Elijah heard YHVH's assuring, supportive voice. He covered his face in his mantle (prayer shawl), "and he went out" [Va Yetze] and stood at the entry to the cave and listened as YHVH spoke to him. The still small, gentle voice was as a patient parent lovingly directing a child. Elijah was comforted as YHVH responded to his heartfelt intercession with calm instructions regarding how Israel would be brought to repentance and to restoration. Elijah was (1) to go to Damascus on his way back to Israel and "anoint Hazael to be king over Syria." He would be the strong invading wind to come upon the rocks and mountains of Israel. Elijah was (2) then to anoint Jehu "...to be king over Israel." He would become the earthquake of revolution. Jehu would bring judgment and destruction on the whole house of Ahab and on the Baal worshipers. Next, Elijah was (3) to go to "Elisha son of Shaphat", the personification of righteous, fiery judgment, and anoint him to be the prophet who would succeed Elijah. Elisha would speak with words of holy anointing, breaking the yoke of the enemy. The powerful signs impressed Elijah, but the heart and intimacy of YHVH was not in them. Judgment is necessary for order, but YHVH "delights in mercy." (4) Only in the "still small voice" directing him, not in the frightful visions and prophetic signs, does Elijah inwardly, in the silence of his soul, experience the personal love, and gracious, merciful goodness of the Creator.
Dreams, visions, and signs are ways our Elohim has communicated with people. But it is not with winds that divided the Red Sea, or manna that appeared from heaven, or earthquakes that engulf people and bring down walls that produce closeness and intimacy between Creator and created. The above forms are impressive and needed, but it is hearing/sensing and knowing His still small voice within your spirit, and in your soul that confirms He is Abba.
As you study, wrap yourself in your mantle and wait upon His still small voice to speak into your spirit, and to arise in your mind/consciousness, and stir your heart.
In the next parsha we will continue discussing the forms the Spirit's communication, particularly His still small, inner voice.
Weekly Parsha Commentary Study: Va Yetze "And he went out"
"Give diligence to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed" (2 Tim. 2:15).
We study to know and to please our Elohim, and to mature as disciples and ambassadors for Yeshua Messiah. Study is a form of worship.
The parsha's study Scriptures (Torah, Haftorah, N.T.) and the eight questions are (1) the heart of our commentary study, (2) the intended, primary practice exercise for listening to and hearing the voice of Elohim, and thus the (3) means of receiving personal instruction and confirmation by the Spirit of Truth concerning the student's Israelite birthright, identity, heritage, calling, duty and direction.
Genesis 28:10-32:2(3): [Torah] Jacob leaves home/Bethel/Dream/Anoints rock/Rachel and Leah/Children are born/Rachel bears Joseph/Jacob and Laban/Jacob flees with his family/Laban pursues/Jacob and Laban form a treaty/Laban departs.
Hosea chapter 1; and 12:12-14: [Haftorah] Prophet to N. Kingdom (Ephraim/Israel). YHVH pleads with Israel as a husband for a wayward wife to return. Israel remain unmoved. [N. Kingdom was carried away by Assyria-722 B.C.]
John 1:43-51: [New Testament] A hint. Remez level insight. What's happening to Jacob in the Torah passage?
Matthew 15 and 16: [Gospels] The first anointing in the Torah/Scripture, a rock! See Mt. 28:18. In this Gospel section, John is imprisoned. Yeshua's anointed ministry begins.
Questions
1. In your opinion, what is the prominent teaching or theme of the Torah reading?
2. What is the supporting/complimentary truth found in the Haftorah?
3. What is the corresponding truth or idea found in the New Testament reading?
4. Summarize the common teaching/central idea of the united (entire) parsha, as you see it.
5. Relate the entire parsha's main idea/theme with the assigned Gospel reading. How does Yeshua reflect/demonstrate your central truth?
6. What does this week's parsha study teach you, as a Believer, concerning your Israelite: a. identity, b. birthright, c. heritage, d. destiny, e. and duty?
7. Did the Spirit of Truth [john 14:15-18] anoint and teach you this week? How?
8. Did you experience intimacy/closeness with Yeshua this week in study? Use you notebook.
Israel
"Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land..." (Gen. 28:15).
Jacob has not yet developed the habit/lifestyle of living by faith as had his grandfather, Abraham. However, as he had rested on the rock at Bethel, so would he learn to lean on/trust in the "Rock of Ages" in the times ahead. YHVH had been with Jacob from the beginning and would be faithful to watch over him, and bring him back to the Land. Pre-incarnate Yeshua standing at the top of the ladder in Jacob's dream was a display/evidence/assertion of His superintendence over His chosen ones. YHVH our Elohim loves the land of Israel. He loves His people. He is love, and love provides for oversight and care.
Jacob's expanded family is in Israel rebuilding the Land today. Someone might ask, "What is the average Israeli like?" Since they often originate from different nations, the typical Israelite may be light skinned or dark skinned. In Israel there are blonds, brunettes, people with red hair, and others with black. Some are tall, some are short. They represent a great variety of skills, talents, and professions.
The majority of Jews in Israel share a common faith, Judaism, but express that faith in a variety of ways, depending upon their country of origin/emigration. A small minority are Messianic Jews who believe in Yeshua of Nazareth as the prophesied Messiah. many of them serve in various ministries across the Land.
Jews from Eastern Europe are called Ashkenazim. Those from the Mediterranean are Sephardim. The Jews from the Islamic countries are called Mizrahim, or Oriental.
The non-Jewish people--Muslim, Arab Christian, Druze, Bedouins--total about twenty percent of the population. Most of them live in Akko, Haifa, and Jerusalem. All the citizens, whatever the color, creed, or background, are fully equal under Israeli law.
The mosaic of Israel is dynamic, fascinating, and always changing and developing.
Latter Days
"And God remembered Rachel, and God hearkened unto her womb. And she conceived and bare a son; and said, God hath taken away my reproach: and she called his name Joseph..." (Gen 30:22-24).
Elohim remembered Rachel, as He did Leah earlier (Gen. 29:31), and so her childless estate did not continue as long as had Sarah's or Rebekah's. During her wait, though, Rachel had come to understand that any children of hers would be a gift from the Almighty, and would not be the outcome of human efforts, such as bargaining with mandrakes. She named her son Joseph, meaning "he shall add", making reference to a hope of another child. She said "May the Lord give me [add to me] another son" (verse 24). The girl who had clung to her family idols when leaving Laban's home had become emancipated from her illusions, and had risen to a higher spiritual awareness, that YHVH [she used His name], the personal, covenant Elohim of Abraham and Isaac, was also her Source, upon Whom she was dependant for offspring. Rachel came to see that the growth, welfare and stability of her family rested alone on YHVH's favor and faithfulness. He had heard her prayer at the birth of Joseph. Benjamin would be His answer.
Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob, was sold by his brothers into Egypt. There, after a term in prison, he went on to become the viceroy of the land, under Pharaoh. Eventually, Jacob and his family came and sojourned in Egypt and prospered in the land of Goshen. Before Jacob died he gathered his family and spoke blessings over all his sons, including Joseph's sons, Manasseh and Ephraim. He prophesied what would come to pass in the latter days regarding their houses, or tribes. These prophesies help us (1) understand the history of Israel, (2) recognize the descendants of the tribes today, and (3) know what to expect of them in the end-times as the coming of Messiah draws nigh. We will discuss the latter days and Israel in the parshas to come. In this study we will establish a simple foundation for discussing Israel and the latter days by taking a basic look at the general signs of the time most people read about regularly. See: Genesis 48 and 49, Deut. 4 and 28.
"For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit" (2 Peter 1:21).
Scripture gives us signs that forecast the end of the age, but not the exact day or hour of the coming of Messiah. Elohim wants His people alert and watchful, and prophetic signs are for stirring and awakening a lukewarm, slumbering, often pre-occupied Ecclesia and providing her with a sense of urgency, of motivation to fulfilling the good works to which we are called, and by which we are blessed.
The hour of the Second Coming of Yeshua is drawing closer as we observe prophesy being fulfilled in our time. Whether we believe in pre-tribulation or post-tribulation rapture does not matter. The birth-pangs Yeshua described in Matthew 24 are upon us already, to (1) signal the lateness of the hour and to (2) incite/propel/provoke Believers to become engaged in restoration truth and purpose that is unfolding at this time. In America this notion may be over-looked, but true disciples work! Yeshua said, "Go...teach...baptize...teaching them to observe all things..."
The Almighty has provided warning signs for our discerning of the pre-tribulation latter days in which we live--a time with the decline of western culture, rise of global economy and government, the gradual formation of anti-Israel geo-political alliances, national upheavals and the encroachment of radical Islam, and more. Some prophetic signs signal the forming of other prophecies, which in turn are developing to prepare for others to arise and be fulfilled. Let us look at some of these various prophetic signs to develop our understanding of prophecy, and unfold the map/roadway set before us. As stated earlier, knowing the truth will excite us to be prepared, watchful, obedient, over-coming saints for the future challenges and excitements rising, like thunder storms, on the horizon.
When asked by His disciples about the signs of the end of the age Yeshua told them what would herald the beginning of the end. We will begin with what Yeshua said, then look at Paul's comments, and finally look at some prophesies that are being fulfilled, and then others that have yet to come to pass. This particular segment of Latter Days, "Signs of the Times" will take several weeks to complete because we want to include in the discussion: The USA and Israel, the Ten Tribes, Joseph in the latter days, and Ezekiel 37-39.
The following signs were given by Yeshua for us to look for prior to the end of the age and His Coming.
1. "For many will come in my name, saying, I am the Christ, and will mislead many" (Mt. 24:5). False prophets, new age cults, false messiahs are abundant on our landscapes, and many are awaiting the antichrist as the chief over a hierarchy of pagan gods.
2. "And you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars; see that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not the end yet" (v. 6). We all see the news. Wars and fighting between nations and among ethnic groups is widespread. More people have been killed in the last one hundred years that at any other time in history.
3. "For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and..." (v. 7). Gross misuse of farmlands has exacerbated Africa food shortages. Billions of people around the planet suffer from famine.
4. "...and earthquakes" (v. 7). The number and intensity of major earthquakes that have occurred around the world in the last century exceeds any other time in history.
5. "But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs. Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations on account of my name" (v. 9)In America Believers still have freedom of worship and suffer little more than ridicule. In many other countries Believers are regularly, systematically persecuted and even martyred. As the prophesied tribulation period approaches these five signs will be widespread.
6. "And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world for a witness to all the nations, and then the end shall come" (v. 14). This word may be about fulfilled. Maybe not every person has heard the Gospel, but via technology, printed Bible translations [six billion Bibles printed to date!], missionary work, et all, it has been preached in every nation.
Finally, two characteristics, about which Paul forewarned, have become more and more apparent in our nation, indicating again that you and I are in the last days and must prepare for the years of change that are ahead. (1) Apostasy, falling away from the faith...again. [Please read all of 1 Tim. 4:1-3] This happened with the early Apostolic Ecclesia when it rejected its Hebraic roots and the Holy Spirit. The Dark Ages followed, from which we are still recovering. (2) Godlessness, and the advance of corruption, occultism, gross immorality, rebellion, and false religions in every stratum of society. [Please read 2 Tim. 3:1-7]
It is time to employ the divine resources provided for us for the restoration of the kingdom, power, and glory of Elohim to all Israel. In Matthew 24 Yeshua left His followers with signs that would precede His coming (that are occurring and enlarging now), that they would be watchful, alerted, and prepared. A sober exhortation follows immediately in Matthew 25, where the parables clearly teach the importance of the presence, operation, power, and fruit of the Holy Spirit in the lives of latter days Saints. The deposit, or earnest, left to New Covenant, end-times Believers is--His Spirit. [See Ephesians 1:13-14.]
Bless the Land
1. Pray for Israel and America.
On October 28, 2009 the prime minister of Turkey, Tayyep Erdogon, promised Iran military cooperation, intelligence, and air support should Israel attack Iran's nuclear development sites. Pray for Israel's leaders to have wisdom and courage.
China (Gomer, Ezekiel 38-39) remains a belligerent nation toward America, and is building a powerful military. We are short-sighted. U.S. businesses borrow more and more money from China, and out-source many of our industries there, continuing to strengthen their economy and destabilize ours. When we are sufficiently weakened by such international monetary policies and socialist public service expenses, they will challenge us over Taiwan. Someday China, along with a confederation including Russia and Islamic allies, will attack us and invade our land. Pray for a spiritual awakening in America.
2. Sing a new song/the song of the Lord over Israel--A Teaching
"Then Jacob offered sacrifice upon the mount, and called his brethren to eat bread : and they all did eat bread, and tarried all night in the mount" (Gen. 31:54).
Laban pursued Jacob once he had heard of his son's-in-law departure. Among other things he wanted his household idols/gods back which Rachel had stolen and hidden. The theft of the idols revealed moral and spiritual weakness in the house of Jacob, illustrating that prolonged fellowship with unenlightened and unsanctified people will entangle Believers' souls with the moral fabric of the surrounding world and darken/obscure their heavenly light. The two men met, angry words become softened, better consciences prevailed, and they established a covenant of peace between them. Then they erected a pillar of stones to be a vivid reminder, a memorial of their public pledges of fidelity. Jacob then offered a sacrifice on the mount and invited his brethren to the banquet. Reconciliation with his family was the happy outcome of a trip birthed in Laban's desire for vengeance. The next day Laban left for Padan-aram and Jacob once again set his face for Canaan.
The episode of Laban and Jacob erecting a pillar as a reminder of an agreement represents a common ancient custom. A pillar was a stony signature on a covenant contract; it was a monument that had been erected testifying of a solemn communication between two parties.
The song of the Lord is a type of pillar also, because it represents an agreement, a betrothal, and is a communication between two parties. The song of the Lord is a testimony of a covenant. In spiritual songs there are two songs, or two voices. They are (1) the song/voice of the Bridegroom and (2) the song/voice of the Bride (Ecclesia/Redeemed Israel). The new, inspired song/spiritual song/song of the Lord is a dialogue of love that is sung by the Husband (Yeshua) and by the Bride/Wife (Church/Ecclesia/Congregation of Israel).
First Corinthians, chapters thirteen and fourteen, helps to illustrate the beautiful phenomenon of the song of the Lord. In chapter 13 love is the topic, which is the operating motive of the gifts and holy communications. In chapter 14, tongues, interpretation of tongues, and prophecy are featured prominently. We are told that when a person speaks in tongues he/she is communicating/speaking unto God. This is the Bride's voice. The Believer who prophesies, or brings an interpretation to a message in tongues, is speaking edification to the people and is anointed as the oracle of Elohim. This is the voice of the Bridegroom. The two voices work together in the ebb and flow of a spiritual song.
Paul writes, "Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret" (verse 13). Your spiritual song may begin with tongues (Bride's voice), then be followed by an interpretation (Husbands voice), and from that point go into a dialogue of praise (Bride) and prophetic response (Husband). This is both an individual and corporate ministry that should be active in mature assemblies. Paul concludes, "What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also" (Verse 15).
Our Elohim desires both the voices of the Bride and Bridegroom to be heard among His people, for their enrichment, edification, and up-building [Okodomeo-erect or put stones in place, like a pillar, or temple] . The prophet Jeremiah warned Judah of judgment, and informed her that the removal of joy, gladness, mirth, and the song/voice of the bride and bridegroom would accompany the day of chastisement. [See: Jer. 25:10.] Later he affirms a great restoration will follow, and that the voices of the bride and bridegroom (both Old Covenant and by extension New Covenant) will be heard again. "The voice of joy, and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride, the voice of them shall say, Praise the Lord of hosts: for the Lord is good; for his mercy endures forever: and of them that shall bring the sacrifice of praise into the house of the Lord. For I will cause to return the captivity of the land, as at the first, saith the Lord" (Jer. 33:11).
This week, sing with your prayer language unto Yeshua, your Bridegroom. Then wait for the interpretation to arise in your spirit, and as you begin recognize His voice and song in your mind (it may be just a few words), sing them out. He will be blessed, and you surely will be edified.
In the next parsha we will discuss further the songs of the Bride and Bridegroom.
Conclusion
"And Jacob went his way ["And he went..."], and the angels of God met him" (Gen 32:1).
Jacob continued on his way home with his large family and herds, and was met by the angels of Elohim. "He named that place Mahanaim." Mahanaim means "two hosts", or double defense, one in front and another behind. Jacob was encouraged with the placement of angelic wall around his household, but was nevertheless very apprehensive about his meeting with Esau. Still, faith in YHVH's promise and power, along with prayer, prepared him inwardly and urged him forward to Canaan. Jacob hardships were in reality opportunities that had helped make him ready for his greater destiny.
"And he went out" (Va Yetze) so he could come back richer, stronger, more compassionate, changed. Jacob returned from his assignment a different man.
New Covenant Living
On our own pilgrimages through life, we Believers may also trust in supernatural protection and provision as we press forward in our appointed service. Take heart and persevere in good works. As with Jacob, our enemies/obstacles are really opportunities for our growth, transformation, advancement, and victory, by virtue of His power [the Spirit is our personal Guide and Comforter] and redemption promises, which are our portion today. Without trials and challenges (short or long) we tend to atrophy morally and spiritually. What would have become of Jacob without Esau and Laban? What would have happened to David if there had been no Goliath, or Saul? Where would much of the Apostolic Scriptures be if it were not for Paul's prison? How could John have written the Revelation [the consummation of all things] without his exile on Patmos? Hence, right behind your own trial/struggle is an open door to your destiny too. Therefore, press forward in faith. "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper..." (Isa. 54:17). And remember, the "double host" is assigned to us as well. " The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and rescues them" (Psalm 34:7). And, "For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways. They will bear you up in their hands..." (Psalm 91:11-12).
1. Complete the Study Questions.
Maintain your Answer Notebook carefully.
2. Complete your Prayer Journal.
