BLESS THE LAND
PARSHA COMMENTARY
PARSHA COMMENTARY AND STUDY
VaYera "And he appeared"
Bless the Land Written by Hutch Church
October, 2009
Torah: Genesis 18:1-22:24 Haftorah: 2 Kings 4:1-37 Sugg. N.T.: 2 Peter 2:4-11 Gospels/Acts: Matthew 8 though 10
Welcome "...to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad [the whole nation of Israel, the Jews and all the dispersed tribes of Israel] , greeting" (James 1:1).
This lesson plan will help Believers, through prayer, study, and worship exercises to return to and mature in the kingdom, power, and glory of the God of Israel. Each individual lesson is designed to help students--who truly desire to be instructed/led directly by the Holy Spirit in the parsha reading, prayer and in worship--to hear, discern, and respond appropriately to His voice/word in whatever form it may take.
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 the knowledge and experience of the Word (Torah) and Spirit, and thereby participate more effectually in the fulfillment of end-time renewal and restoration prophecies. Hence, our education emphasis at Bless the Land is learning from the Word and the Spirit, for all Israel. Therefore, you will find in the one-year parsha commentary course the continual accent on the importance of hearing the voice of YHVH and learning to be led by His Spirit. "For all who are being [regularly, consistently] led by the Spirit [Ruach] of God, these are the [mature] sons of God" (Rom. 8:14).
Remain committed. Persevere in your journey toward greater revelation from the Word, personal transformation, and intimacy with Yeshua. You will be blessed for your effort. "...He is a Rewarder of them that diligently seek Him" (Heb. 11:6). Please be reminded, the readers study portions--which are (1) the heart of this commentary, (2) the intended, primary exercise for hearing the voice of the Almighty, and thus (3) the means of personal instruction by the Spirit of Truth concerning the students' Israelite birthright, identity, heritage, destiny, and calling--follow "Knowing His Voice".
Introduction to Va Yera "And he appeared"
Last week: "...and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his seed after him" (Gen. 17:19). In the last parsha YHVH called Abraham to separate from Ur and to venture into Canaan. He obeyed, and with Sarah, Lot, with his household emigrated to and settled in the new land. Later, Hagar bears Ishmael but the Almighty asserts that His covenant will be established with the son born of Sarah, Isaac.
This week: "And the Lord [YHVH] appeared unto him in the plains of Mamre in the heat of the day; and he lift up his eyes and looked, and lo, three men stood by him: and when he saw them, he ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself toward the ground" (Gen. 18:1-2). The absence of the name of the Patriarch in this passage lends credence to the idea that the chapter should have begun at Genesis 17:23, indicating that the renewed manifestation of YHVH took place shortly after the circumcision.
Sitting at the door of his tent in "the height of the day", having just eaten, Abraham "looks" [the word implies physical vision] and sees three figures approach, whom he perceives at first to be men. When they drew close, "he saw them'' [this implies mental perception, or discernment], and recognized YHVH/Yeshua (in a pre-incarnate form) among them. Abraham ran toward them, fell on his knees and then on to his face, and lay completely prostrate on the ground, as an act of salutation and worship..."and said, My Lord [Adonai]."
Following along with the narrative, we observe that YHVH Himself, along with the two heavenly attendants, had made their way to Abraham's home on an un-announced visit. It was noontide when they arrived, and Abraham piously received them and extended a gracious invitation, "...pass not away...a little water...wash...rest...a morsel...comfort your hearts". Abraham knew that by the arrival of these special guests at his doorstep he had a holy responsibility to discharge the most hospitable services. And thus he entertained his visitors, withholding no
effort, enjoyment, expense, or courtesy. At the end of the meal, the divine Being, foremost of the guests, and Who by then was most certainly standing forth as YHVH to Abraham and any gathered witnesses, made an authoritative announcement. "And lo, Sarah thy wife will have a son". I believe Abraham (who had suspected the divinity of the chief Guest) laughed, clapped his hands, and shouted, "Yes, at last!" But Sarah, who was evidently listening out of sight, laughed as if to say, "You've got to be kidding me." Apparently, there are two ways of laughing. There are also, of course, two ways of receiving the word/promise of the Lord: (1) by faith, which secures the promise, or by (2) skepticism/unbelief, which nullifies its fulfillment. Fortunately, for our father and mother of faith, the promise was confirmed by (a) the Lord's reminder of His omnipotence, "Is anything too hard for the Lord?", (b) the promise being repeated, "I will return unto you, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son" and (c) the promise being affirmed by a display of divine insight, convicting Sarah's conscience and supernaturally transforming her unbelief into faith. "And He said, Nay, but thou didst laugh." She perceived that He indeed had accurately searched out the secrets of her heart, that His word was thus true, and that nothing was outside His reach. "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the [rhema] word of God" (Rom. 10:8).
Those of us who would desire to have and maintain a divine visitation, alone, in our homes, or in our congregations, would do well to study Abraham's example. We conclude: First, the divine Guest was received joyously. Abraham was sincere in His desire to keep his Visitor as long as possible and rapidly enlisted the assistance of his household in the effort. Secondly, he was liberal/very generous. Though Abraham characterized his hospitality in modest terms, we can safely assume the banquet was sumptuous, and that he entertained his visitors with the very best his tent could offer. Thirdly, Abraham was personally involved in the preparations, serving, and activities, and did not delegate the chief responsibilities to his three-hundred servants, or to faithful Eliezer, who was appointed over them. It was Abraham who girded himself for service, keeping his Guests' glasses filled with cool water while his musicians played praise music gently in the background.
What can we learn from the opening Torah passage? May these verses direct your hearts: (1) "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares" (Heb. 13:2). (2) "Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality" (Rom. 12:13). (3) "God loveth a cheerful giver" (2 Cor. 9:7). (4) "Perfect that which is lacking in your faith" (1Thess.3:10). (5) "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and he with Me" (Rev. 3:20).
Hospitality and generosity in Believers are very attractive traits.
"And you shall seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart" (Jer. 29:13).
This Torah section also includes a theophany/divine visit to Abraham, the birth of Isaac, Hagar and Ishmael expelled from Abraham's household, and Abraham and Isaac on Mt. Moriah.
Note: Abraham's call to sacrifice his obedient son Isaac, who was thirty-seven at the time (and who could have easily over-powered his father, the patriarch) was Abraham's most difficult trial/test. The event is called the "Akaida". Akaida means "tying up", and refers to Isaac being bound by his father for the sacrificial altar. The idea represents the heart or essence of ancient Judaism, and by extension also represents the essential quality of true saving faith in Messiah. It speaks of the single-minded devotion of loving and serving Elohim with all one's being, and keeping His commandments, even to the point of self-sacrifice. Abraham honored the words/visitations of the Almighty, and each time he heard the divine order, he always deepened the consecration of his life to join with YHVH's expressed will.
"And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thine soul, and with all thy might' (Deut. 6:5). [Shema: hear and obey]
Knowing the Holy Spirit/Ruach ha Kodesh
"And they shall be as mighty men...I will strengthen the house of Judah, and I will save the house of Joseph, and I will bring them again [make them to dwell] to place them..And they of Ephraim shall be like a mighty man, and their heart shall rejoice as through wine [they will go forth to battle cheerfully and refreshed, and their households will be joyful with the reports of victory]...I will hiss [signal; the word refers to a particular kind of whistle used by a shepherd to call his particular flock together.] for them, and gather them; for I have redeemed them: and they shall increase as they have increased...and I will strengthen them in the Lord...And I will strengthen them in the Lord; and they shall walk up and down in His Name, saith the Lord" (Zech. 10:5-8, 12).
In the opening verses the prophet is addressing the restoration of Judah, and encouraging the people that to obtain the promises of YHVH, they must be sought from YHVH, not from idols [teraphim]. "Ask of YHVH." In the above verses though, Judah and Israel/Joseph/Ephraim are both addressed and the establishment of all Israel is affirmed.
Judah will be restored and Ephraim will be raised up, not discarded. Israel will be filled with wine of the Spirit as they occupy all the borders beyond them of the ancient Promised Land. Already, YHVH is calling/hissing/whistling for Ephraim to return from the nations to which they were scattered, to be saved and identified. Judah and Ephraim will together share in the future contest and victory while guided and protected by the hand of Elohim.
Two increases have been prophesied. First, Ephraim increased greatly in physical numbers while they were scattered and lost among the nations. Secondly, in their return to the Father's house they will be greatly increased in the strength of the Lord. Of Judah and Ephraim He says, "And I will strengthen them in the Lord." This is a great prophetic word to have come under our contemplation. To be strengthened in YHVH is the greatest blessing we can receive. His strength is multifaceted and refracts, as does light through a prism, into physical, emotional, mental, moral, spiritual, tribal, and national empowerment. His strength, which is divinely imparted through His Truth and Spirit, enables His holy ones to "walk up and down in His Name." This is our most glorious exercise. The path of life can be dangerous and dismal, peaceful and prosperous. It's up one day, down another; and a gloomy prospect without YHVH's redemptive graces. Life's road can only be walked victoriously when we "walk in His Name"; that is, to "walk" in all the redemptive blessings/promises that His magnificent Name represents. His Name represents the strengths of His salvation, restoration, sanctification, righteousness, power, healing, provision, protection, guidance, goodness and mercy, victory, and personal fellowship. In this way, we of Judah and Ephraim--even everyone grafted into Israel--become the corporate example and witness to the restoration of all Israel. Therefore, put away the names of lust, pride, greed, sensuality, intellectualism, and every inferior work and disorder. We have "a name which is above every name: That at the Name of Jesus [Yeshua] every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [Yeshua ha Mashiach] is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Phil.2:9-10).
The Apostle Paul, in the aforementioned passage, brings us to this very important truth for Judah and Ephraim to emulate in their restoration and reconciliation: Yeshua's public humiliation [See: Isa. 53:7-9; 2 Cor. 5:21; Phil. 2:4-8] was the deepest, the most profound that creation has ever witnessed. Thus the Father, in proportion to Yeshua's humility, "...hath highly exalted Him" and "set Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places, far above...every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come" (Eph. 1:20-21). The Father has given Him a Name above every name in splendor, majesty, power, honor, and revelation. Yeshua is Savior! There is salvation in His Name! The greatest glory that anyone can aspire to is the glory of having the worth and where-with-all to actually save someone, someplace, or something at sometime. Yeshua is the Savior and Redeemer not only of all mankind, but He is Savior, for all time, of everything created. Thus, everything named, above, on, or below the earth, whether in the past, the present, or the future, will bow before Him.
Therefore, we can all say as did the inspired psalmist, "I will lift up my hands in thy Name" (Psalm 63:4). There will be universal thankful adoration and worship of Yeshua, who took upon Himself the form of a slave, but Who is Lord of all.
This is the blessed end-time destiny of the Believers who are returning to their heritage of the Kingdom, Power, and Glory of the Elohim of Israel--increase; a great restoration of Spirit and Truth! And this is the purpose of our increase: divine enablement/empowerment. "For all people will walk every one in the name of his god, but we [His renewed witnessed with renewed strength] will walk [in the Latter Days with faith, hope, love, joy, power, and victory, in the ups and downs of life--as prophesied] in the Name [redemption strength/salvation] of the Lord (YHVH)" (Micah 4:5). And here is the pathway to our increase, as demonstrated by Yeshua: Humility, service, love.
To the hungry and thirsty, the ministry of the Word and Spirit is being amplified today from heaven to meet their cry and need. Hebrew roots truth and the outpouring of the Spirit are occurring widely. Increase of faith, hope, and love is already underway, and have been for some time. With that in mind, it is apparent that, for us, the time for systematic, line on line, preparation for our role of "walking up and down in His Name..." has arrived. Our hope is for Bless the Land to assist in the "increase" of Judah and Ephraim as we upgrade our commentary.
Therefore, starting with the next parsha commentary study, we will include a more systematic teaching on the basic truths about the Holy Spirit, His Voice, and Song of the Lord. A simple, but sure foundation on these subject needs to be established as we continue discussing "Hearing His Voice and Being Led by the Spirit". The new section will be titled, "Knowing the Holy Spirit". The two sections will thus progress concurrently and compliment one another, and precede the Parsha Commentary Study and Questions. Through the remainder of the Parsha year the main topics of the "Knowing the Holy Spirit" section will include: (1) Knowing the Holy Spirit, (2) The Ministry of the Spirit, (3) The Holy Spirit is the Old Testament/Typology, (4), The Holy Spirit in the New Testament, (5) The Baptism of the Holy Spirit, (6) Pentecost Today, (7) The Gifts and Fruit of the Spirit, (8) Facilitating and Releasing the Prophetic, (9) The Holy Spirit's Testimony/Witness of Yeshua, (10) The Seven Spirits of God [seen by John in Revelation], (11) Our Need of the Fullness, (12) Preparing for and Welcoming the Visitation of the Spirit, , (13) Phenomena and the Purpose of Visitation, (14) The Spirit and Devotion to Yeshua.
During the parsha year-long schedule, the already existing "Knowing His Voice" section will continue to unfold in the following order: (1) The Voice of Elohim, (2) The Forms of His Voice/Word (3) YHVH's Voice/Word in the Old Testament, (4) Inspiration Gifts, (5) How the Spirit Speaks to Us Today, (6) What Listening Means, (7) The Importance of Hearing, (8) The Results of Hearing, (9) Communication Gifts of the Spirit, (10) Prophecy by Inspiration and Faith, (11) The Spirit's Voice/Word in the New Covenant, (12) Prophecy and Holy Spirit Visitation, (13) People of His Voice, (14) Hearing and Devotion to Messiah.
A Exhortation for Men: It is clear to us how important it is for all returning Israelites to be matured in the ministry of the Holy Spirit/Ruach haKodesh. But men in particular must be encouraged in the truth that they are intuitive beings and well able to function with sensitivity in the gifts of the Spirit. Too often they are encouraged, even expected, to function in the exercise of logic and reason only. Thus, they (we) tend to become disinterested in meaningful interaction with the Spirit. We see this all the time, but it is a mistake! Maintaining the incorrect perception/notion of male Believers as basically logic-oriented only, or that they are not very intuitive or sensitive, discourages them from pursuing greater spirituality, and greatly restricts the development of their full spiritual potential. Such an idea "dumbs down" a large segment of the Body of Messiah, and constricts the operation of gifts in the congregation, thereby perpetuating its weakened condition. However, teaching men to develop their intuitive potential in the Ruach is wise, and critical to the restoration of leadership and power to the Body of Messiah.
Further, it would go a long way in strengthening men in their priesthood role--engaging in Spirit-led prayer, delivering anointed blessings, bringing timely prophetic words, applying revelatory insight for guidance, producing good fruit, etc.--in their homes.
Hearing His Voice/Being Led by the Spirit
"And Abraham drew near, and said, Wilt thou also destroy the righteous with the wicked? Peradventure there be fifty righteous within the city...Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right? And the Lord [YHVH] said..." (Gen. 18:23-26).
In these verses we are given an account of a sublime interaction between YHVH and man. Abraham, we believe, was moved by concern for Lot and compassion for the residents of Sodom to intercede on their behalf. The severity of the retribution about to be visited upon Sodom and Gomorrah, and thoughts about what miserable future could lay in store for the unhappy victims of the forthcoming calamity, filled Abraham's mercy-motivated heart with anguish. He thus "drew near" to YHVH, both physically and spiritually, trusting for divine acceptance and freedom of expression. This he received. He was reverent, humble, but fervent and persistent with his importuning. His prayer/argument was not primarily based upon the principle of mercy, but rested on the righteousness of YHVH, and how His moral goodness always seeks to find a way for mercy to triumph over judgment. At the end of the discourse, Abraham got all he asked. Cooperating with the nudge of wisdom, he stopped requesting before the Almighty stopped granting. "And the Lord [YHVH] went His way [vanished]" (Gen. 18:33).
On some occasions Believers need to wrestle with God in prayer, and give Him no rest until the answer comes. See: Isa. 62:7. We are also encouraged to pray without ceasing. See: 1 Thess. 5:17. In every case, the Lord desires to have us approach Him ["come boldly"], enter His manifest presence, and come into a heart-felt discourse. Our Elohim wants us to state our case, to make the intelligent argument, to remind Him of His Word, and press for the answer. He pauses for us, just as He did for ardent Abraham, waiting for us to "draw near" with faith, praises and petitions. Afterwards we will hear His assuring voice from within our spirits say, "...Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee" (Mt. 8:13). Prayer should be a dialogue. Both parties speak. Both parties listen. And, of course, one party obeys.
We believe, based on the warnings of Yeshua found in Matthew twenty-four, that we are in the latter days mentioned by the prophets. There is a rising interest on the part of returning Israelites everywhere to know God by faith and experience, including hearing His voice, and the phenomenon is in alignment with prophecy. "In the latter days you will return to the Lord your God and listen to His voice" (Deut. 4:30). The implication is clear. We are in the prophetic time frame when YHVH is ready and poised to speak to them who are ready to listen. In Psalm 78:1 YHVH opens with these confirming words of exhortation, "Listen, O My people, to My instruction; Incline your ears to the words of my mouth."
We want to catch every message our Creator has for us, either through the Word or directly by the Spirit. Therefore we, who are returning to our Hebrew roots and are moving toward closer fellowship with Yeshua have a four-fold responsibility to: (1) cultivate the habit of listening for His voice, (2) hear His voice with intelligence, (3) hear with personal expectation and interest, and (4) listen with the intention to respond/obey.
Be led by the Spirit. To listen [Shema; Hebrew] means to "hear and obey". In this way lives are transformed and His witness is greatly advanced.
Weekly Parsha Commentary Study: Va Yera "And he appeared"
"Give diligence to present thyself approved unto God, a workmen that needeth not to be ashamed" (2 Tim. 2:15).
We study not to gain the approval of men, but to know and please YHVH, and to mature as able apologists and disciples of Yeshua. Study is worship.
Read the parsha portions and expect to hear from your Elohim. Your participation in this study program is a divine appointment, and a practical means of helping you ascend [make aliyah] to higher levels of discipleship/fellowship with Yeshua in both the Word and Spirit. For the two sticks of Ezekiel 37, the Houses of Judah and Ephraim, to be joined together into one stick in the Master's hand (as prophesied), the "stick of Hebraic truth restoration" and the "stick of the fullness of the Spirit" must be joined into "one stick of Word and Power" in the Believers' hands. In this, we all can readily participate in the restoration of the Kingdom of Israel.
As you study the Torah, Haftorah, and New Testament Scriptures, make room for the Ruach ha Kodesh to move upon/among you.
Genesis 18:1-22:24: Abraham visited by pre-incarnate Yeshua and two angels/Feast of lamb and unleavened bread/Abraham intercedes for Sodom/Angels deliver Lot and family/Lot flees to a cave/Incest with his daughters/Moab and Ammon are born/Isaac born/Hagar and Ishmael expelled from Abraham's household/Alliance with Abimelech/Abraham and Isaac on Mt. Moriah/YHVH's words/The men return.
2 Kings 4:1-37: Mark the similar characteristic/values shared between Abraham and Elisha. Which of these do you demonstrate?
Historical Note: "Judah and Israel were many...and Judah and Israel dwelt safely, every man under his vine and under his fig tree..." (1 kings 4:20,25). "History tells us that the united Tabernacle of David, that King Solomon inherited, was in fact the beginning of global Yisraelite expansion. Yisraelite colonies were established throughout the known world and colonist Yisraelites began to intermingle with those of other nations producing a Yisraelite empire of global proportions. It was during the time of King David that Israel's zera or seed started its global proliferation. This colonialism is confirmed in 1 Kings 4:20-26 which clearly states that the start of this accelerated phase of the dust of the earth promise began when the concept of the two-houses began to emerge. The text states, 'Yehudah and Yisrael were as many as the sand on the sea.' Not Judah alone. Even though both kingdoms acknowledged Solomon's reign, we see YHVH's promise to the patriarchs begin to accelerate through unadulterated and unchecked Yisraelite colonialism. What YHVH began via colonialism He continued later via dispersion and scattering." [Restoration Scriptures. Page 352.]
2 Peter 2:4-11: Read carefully. Hear the Spirit guide and instruct in His Word. Consider "faith" and the place of "works" in the lives of Abraham, Sarah, and Elisha.
Compare/relate the parsha with the Gospel chapters, and with Yeshua.
Matthew 8 through 10: YHVH showed affection and compassion for Abraham and his household regularly. As you read these chapters observe Yeshua's concern and care that He demonstrated again to the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Questions
1. In Your opinion, what is the prominent teaching or theme of the
Torah reading?
2. What is the supporting or complimentary truth found in the Haftorah?
3. What is the corresponding truth or idea revealed in the New Testament reading?
4. Summarize the entire parsha's common teaching/central truth, as you see it.
5. Relate the whole parsh'a main theme/central truth with this week's Gospel reading. How does Yeshua illustrate/demonstrate your central truth?
6. What does this week's parsha teach you/reveal to 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 while in prayer or study? How?
8. In your study time did you sense/perceive/experience intimacy with Yeshua? Please comment in your notebook.
Israel
"...God said to him, Abraham...take now your son, your only son whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah..." (Genesis 22:1-2). Abraham's unexpected great trial was announced by YHVH. He was to take Isaac and sacrifice him on an altar on Mt. Moriah, which is the site of the Temple Mount today. Though a seemingly confusing and severe demand, still Abraham puts the naked Word of God above his great love for Isaac, and painfully proceeds (after all, he was human) to fulfill the charge. In the course of the remarkable event, Isaac is delivered and YHVH affirms to Abraham His blessing of numerous seed and territorial prosperity.
Mount Moriah was the place where, much later in history, the Seer Gad directed King David to raise an altar and sacrifice oxen upon it to atone for his sin of pride and ambition in numbering the people. David purchased the oxen and threshing floor from Araunah, the generous and cooperative owner. It is same place on which the two temples would stand. Because of this, despite the "buildings" that currently stand there, it is holy ground.
Araunah felt honored to provide the site and oxen for the atonement services which would be offered to YHVH. He held David and Israel in very high esteem and therefore generously complied with David's request to sell it to Him.
Our possessions can find a no more noble use than to be dedicated to the purposes of God.
The people of Israel--the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob--have an ancient connection/relationship/bond/union with the land of Israel, the place of their origin, faith, and identity. In 70 C.E. the Jews were driven from Jerusalem and out of the Land by the Romans. In the nineteenth century their enduring desire to return to Israel (Palestine) became a political movement called Zionism. In 1948, through the Zionist sacrifice and effort, Israel became a internationally recognized state. The funds required for the undertaking were provided by the gifts and contributions of Jewish people from many nations around the world. Today, the Jewish National Fund owns 14 percent of the land of Israel, and the state owns about 74 percent.
It must be remembered that Christian Zionists have also contributed significantly to the establishment of Israel, and today continue to generously support Jewish immigration to Israel.
Furthermore, many Messianic, non-Jewish Believers, especially since the closing of the twentieth century and the opening of the twenty-first, are beginning to see themselves as descendants of the exiled ten tribes, and view a return to the land as their destiny/divine call too. "I have surely heard Ephraim grieving, 'You have chastised me , and I was chastised' like and untrained calf; Bring me back that I may be restored..." (Jer. 31:18).
"Afterwards the sons of Israel will return and seek the Lord their God and David their king, and they will come trembling to the Lord and His goodness in the last days' (Hos. 3:5).
Humility, service, love.
The Latter Days
"And Abraham took sheep and oxen, and gave them unto Abimelech. And both of them made a covenant" (Genesis. 21:27).
Whenever Israel forgot His covenant and works, they failed. The following is an example of the importance for a people in honoring their covenant. The passage remarks on the transgressions of Ephraim, and of Israel while the nation was under the leadership of Ephraim during the period of Joshua until the ministry of Samuel, and the anointing and inauguration of King Saul of the Tribe of Benjamin. "The children of Ephraim being armed and carrying bows, turned back in the day of battle. They kept not the covenant of God, and refused to walk in His law; and forgot His works, and His wonder that He had shown them" (Psalm 78:9-11).
Psalm 78 was/is primarily a warning to Ephraim against continued unbelief and rebellion, and accuses the leading tribe of turning back in "the day of battle", i.e., the battle between Satan and Elohim The reference to failure (turning back) refers not to one particular occasion only. It refers to the over-all "turning back" of Ephraim from the responsibility of enforcing and maintaining YHVH's covenant, and executing strong, righteous, successful leadership of Israel, especially during the period of the Judges. [See: Judges 2:14; 3:8,13,31; 4:2; 6:1; 10:7,12; and more.] Ephraim's recklessness escalated and they eventually succeeded/broke away from Judah, the Temple in Jerusalem, and worship of YHVH. But the psalm also warns Judah, who had been elevated, blessed and esteemed by YHVH's presence, that they do not follow and fall after the manner of Ephraim. Thus Ephraim was regarded as "a cake not turned", and "a silly dove".
The ten tribes of the northern kingdom, led by Ephraim, turned away from their noble start and sacred pledges to service, and fell to rebellion, pride, debauchery. They "...limited the Holy One of Israel" (verse 41). Rebellion and disobedience impair, weaken, defect, then render ineffective, and finally destroy faith. Therein, they limited His power in their minds. The unbelief of Ephraim limited, even curtailed, YHVH's power to assist and comfort them in their trials and responsibilities. Ephraim imploded, was judged and scattered.
What does this sobering passage teach us today? In these latter days, we must beware of an evil heart of unbelief, which Satan's flood of lying, wicked words is busy attempting to produce within unwatchful people. Feed and encourage faith, and maintain regular communion with Yeshua in the Word and by the Spirit. "Therefore, let us be diligent to enter that rest, so that no one will fall, through following the same example of disobedience" (Heb. 4:11).
Psalm 78 could be characterized as a judgment psalm, from which we learn several timely and relevant things. First, As Ephraim was judged, so have been many ancient nations, and so also will be modern nations. America is no exception. One sage wrote, "Happy is the nation that has no history". [S.C. Eerdmans. Unknown.] The insightful implication is: If a nation has a history, we already know the corrupt nature of its record. "And the path of peace they have not known" (Rom. 3:17). The history file of the nations of earth is stuffed with accounts of Elohim's judgments. Secondly, YHVH's judgments are righteous and just. The decline of nations as always resulted from rampart, profuse, turbulent wickedness of such proportion that, for the sake and preservation of humanity, Elohim's judgment reduced and/or removed them entirely. Thirdly, Elohim's judgments come only after other means of discipline and correction have failed. Ephraim had experienced the plagues of Egypt, and they had observed the presence, provision, and power of YHVH. They had known His miracles and had learned His Law. They, all them of the Ten Tribes, had experienced the disciplines and corrections of Elohim in the wilderness and during the reign of Judges. They had seen that His judgments, for the sake of mercy and repentance, come slowly, but increasingly, and finally...fully. [ In our nation, we are at the "increasingly" stage. That is, we are in the season of Elul, prior to Trumpets.] But Ephraim became thick of heart, too preoccupied and dull to discern or care about the words of the prophets. Fourthly, when a judgment comes upon a people, the innocent are usually exposed and suffer along with the guilty. This does not necessarily have to be, if the innocent are wise, praying and looking for His way of deliverance. The sins of the fathers do not always have to be visited upon the children. "Take ye heed, watch and pray..." (Mark 13:33). Fifthly, judgment is effective on the short term basis. We see this in the Book of Judges. Judgment does not eradicate sin permanently, it only stalls it for a season. That is why YHVH, Who well knows mankind's resolution to stand steadfast against sin erodes with time, says, "But thou, O Man of God, flee [don't flirt with] these things, and follow righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness" (1 Tim. 6:11).
Our conclusion: America, Elohim's staging place for many Israelite people, is showing signs of impending judgment. Our society as a whole has become "increasingly" mired in wickedness and debauchery similar to that which eventually cursed and doomed Sodom, and deadened the spirit of Ephraim. Since there has not yet been a broad and deep national repentance, we are observing the machinations of judgment at work in the land, most notably in the last year or two. Yet, YHVH remains open to our approach to pray, ready to listen, even extend mercy as we intercede for the sake of the righteous. He still longs to come and dwell in the midst of a clean people, those who long for His company manifested upon and among them.
The United States is in need of true patriots. These are the ardent intercessors, Messianic Believers who understand the signs of the times, and who realize that only His "righteousness exalts a nation..." They understand the need of the hour, and stand on the wall and will seek Him until He comes and reigns righteousness/revival on the land. Keep in mind, the world still needs at least one country whose society and government are established and functioning on Judeo-Christian (biblical) values, remaining a light on a hill, a friend to Israel, and a hope for the beleaguered. Pray.
Bless the Land
1. Pray for Israel, and America.
Recently in Jerusalem, two elderly Jewish men were stoned and injured by Arabs as they (the Jews) tried to serve eviction notices on squatters, after seventeen years of inconclusive arguments in court. Another Jewish man spent the Sabbath in jail for discharging his weapon into the air, which he did to protect himself from the mob. In America, new federal "Hate Crimes" legislation has been signed into law. Now people can be prosecuted for publically discharging politically incorrect truth onto the airwaves, and are thereby rendered unable to openly confront and evict the lies and falsehoods that "squat" increasingly in our territories also. Pray for righteous legislators to be raised up in America and Israel.
2. Sing the new song of the Lord over Israel.
"Sing unto Him a new song; play skillfully with a shout of joy" (Ps. 33:3). This is a Psalm of praise and thanksgiving written during the reign of David, according to the Septuagint. It is an exhortation to exuberance. The Scripture says, "God is a Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship Him in spirit and truth" (Jn. 4:24). We all know that our praise and worship must be based on sacred truth, and be spiritual. That is, it should relate to and consist of the Spirit, be both natural and supernatural in essence, pertain to Scriptural values, and extol and exalt YHVH. Keep in mind that fervor and exhilaration are favored. Our worship will be spiritual and physical, having not only inner expression, but outer, material expression as well, in order to completely incorporate our entire being of body, soul, and spirit. The Elohim who gave us our spirits has also created our eyes, ears, minds, voices, and bodies. Thus our call is to worship Him resoundingly, with our entire nature. Hence, the Psalmist encourages/exhorts his readers to praise, rejoice, sing, and play loudly, and express their love and thanksgiving in unabashed physical enthusiasm. "Clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph" (Ps. 47:1).
The new song, given by inspiration, and led by the Spirit stirring the inner man of the worshiper, brings with itself the motive/reason/truth which inspire us, and that remind us that praise and worship are not only privileges, they are duties. The new song will speak of the goodness and faithfulness of our Elohim. It will proclaim His glory, love, faithfulness, and mercy. It will extol the omnipotence, omnipresence, and the omniscience of the One Who created time, controls history, is in all places at once, and reads the thoughts of men and sets their counsel at naught. The new song of the Lord exalts Yeshua, fills us with adoration and enthusiasm, incorporates the whole man, and helps draw us closer to oneness with Him.
Get into the company of a musical instrument, play boldly, and sing to Yeshua. Sing in the Spirit and sing with understanding. Ask Him give you a song to sing over Israel. "Call unto Me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not" (Jer. 33:3).
Here are the general topics we will present in our "Song of the Lord" section of the Parsha Study Commentary during the year ahead. In the opening studies we have adequately discussed the definition and nature of the song of the Lord, the new song, and now we will introduce the subjects through which we shall continue to advance.
They are: (1) Definition and Nature, (2) Purpose of the Song of the Lord, (3) Latter Days/New Mercies Song, (4) Two Categories/Voices (5) Blessing of the S/L; What is Released, (6) YHVH Sings, (7) New Song in O.T., (8) Times for Singing; Call for New Songs, (9) Chenaniah Ministry-Equipping/ Harp and Bowl, (10) Rivers of Eden: Prophecy, Breakthrough, Persistence, Fruitfulness in Worship, (11) Song of Deliverance, (12) Spiritual Songs: N.T., (13) Spiritual Songs and Revival, (14) Yeshua is the New Song.
Conclusion
"And the Lord [YHVH] appeared unto him..." Standing out in this week's Torah portion, we have been impressed by (1) a divine visit to Abraham [a theophany: a physical manifestation of deity; pre-incarnate Yeshua], (2) a divine feast with Abraham, and (3) a divine message for Abraham. Indeed, Elohim had come to visit and engage in sweet fellowship and encouragement with His friend. But Scripture clearly informs Believers today that we "are sealed with the Holy Spirit" (Eph. 1:13). Thus, as with Abraham, we have His company, fellowship, and Word also, but we have these constantly, not just occasionally.
"Behold the days will come, saith the Lord, when I will make a New Covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah" (Jer. 31:31).
"And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not; neither knoweth him: but you know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you" (John 14:16-18).
"You shall receive power..." (Acts 1:8).
"And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance" (Acts 2:4).
He has come (with His voice) to each person of Redeemed Israel, and has remained. Rejoice!
1. Complete the Study Questions.
Maintain your notebook.
2. Complete Your Prayer Journal.
"...and His sheep hear His voice, and He call 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 during prayer and worship, as you ministered to Him. B. Did you hear the word/voice of the Spirit? How? C. Do you believe your senses are now being conditioned/exercised to discern His voice? D. Have you been able to meet with others this week to pray, and to practice recognizing and operating in the gifts of the Spirit, such as prophecy, or tongues and interpretation? What were the results?
