TORAH and GLORY SCHOOL
Torah and Glory School Parsha Commentary Course
Word and Spirit
An education ministry of Bless the Land
Written by Hutch Church
December, 2011
Introduction: The Torah and Glory School lessons are based upon the whole Word of God—the Torah (Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible, the Tanakh (includes the remaining books of the Old Testament, also referred to as the Prophets and Writings), and the Apostolic Scriptures (entire New Testament of Brit Chadashah). Throughout our lessons we exalt Yeshua and emphasize the nature, value, and necessity of living and serving within the full, active ministry of the Holy Spirit. We believe the return of Believers to (a) the study and standards of the Torah, (b) the fullness of the Holy Spirit (Ruach HaKodesh), and (c) their Hebraic heritage will usher the Body of Messiah into greater intimacy and identification with Yeshua, separate His people from the spirit of the age, and equip us more completely for discipleship and service in the end-times.
We invite you to invest one year of your life in study and spiritual growth. The Torah and Glory School offers two levels of association: 1. Reader level. The lessons are available for use to everyone. 2. Student [Talmidim] level. Here, people actually enroll in the school, commit to working our program, and invest one year of their lives into intense spiritual transformation. For information concerning the Torah and Glory School, and the process, requirements, and advantages of enrollment, click HERE. You will be taken to our school's Introduction Page where the program will be explained.
Parsha Lesson Ten: Miketz ("At the end of")
Torah: Genesis [B'resheet] 41:1-44:17
Haftorah: 1 Kings [Melechem Alef] 3:15-4:1
Brit Chadashah: 1 Corinthians [Qorintyah Alef] 2:1-5
Sections: 1. Welcome 2. Weekly Commentary 3. Study and Hearing 4. Prayer 5. Conclusion
Section 1: Welcome to the Word
ה
Hey. The Hebrew letter Hey is the fifth letter of the alef-bet. In ancient Hebrew the letter was drawn to resemble a window, or a man holding up his hands in such a way as to attract attention and declare. The letter denotes “behold” or “make known.” In English, hey carries the “e” sound, which letter is fifth in our alphabet.
“Teach me, O Lord, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with all my heart. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight. Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness” (Psalm 119:33-36).
The main thrust of the psalm is a prayer for spiritual enlightenment. The writer wanted YHVH to make known to him the deeper truths of the Law. He did not want to fail because of a lack of understanding. He realized that even the spiritual disposition of the heart, one that longs to pursue the truth, is a gift from the Almighty.
The "law" referred to in verse 34 is not confined only to the Law given on Mt. Sinai, but includes everything Yah has revealed His will to be. The excellence of the Law is considered in all its aspects in Psalm 119, a psalm that teaches us the benefits [deliverance, peace, fellowship, victory, and more] of knowing and living out the Word. The passage informs us that only obedience from one's heart is pleasing in the sight of Elohim. YHVH's wants His precepts and principles carefully and continually honored. He therefore provides us with the strength to follow His testimonies [commands], which declare [testify to] His character and will. He brings us victory in life as we walk in them. Let us apply His “law” directly to our lives, obey its commands, and adhere to its principles and guidelines (Psalm 119:9, 17, 67; James 1:24-26).
We will have a blessed week by keeping the testimonies and ways of Yeshua. "For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you" (John 13:15). Tamid kadima-Always forward!
Section 2: Weekly Commentary
Last week: "And the keeper of the prison [the captain of the round house, the chief officer of the tower] committed to Joseph's hand all the prisoners that were in
the prison...YHVH was with him, and that which he did, YHVH made it to prosper" (Gen. 39:22-23).
In the previous parsha's Torah narrative, Va Yeshev, Joseph was sold into Potiphar's house and became his chief servant. While in the Egyptian's employ, out of the blue a strong, potentially catastrophic temptation came upon him in the form of Potiphar's impudent, lustful wife. Joseph "fled, and got him out." From this episode we glean certain admirable character qualities of Joseph that are worthy to be emulated. He was alert! When temptation comes--and it can at any time and from any direction--we are to flee from it, not flirt with it and thus fall. Joseph rejected the promiscuous advance: (1) without hesitation (any lingering would have augmented the strength of the temptation); (2) without indecision (double-mindedness/second thoughts cause one to lose resolve, wobble and fall); (3) without rudeness or self-righteousness (his words revealed his moral indignation, but were without fault); (4) without fear (he prepared to face the risk and all possible consequence). Joseph's temporary reward: The wife's slander, the masters wrath, and a dank, dark prison cell which became his assigned portion. However, "...the Lord was with him..." [Note: Joseph's lasting reward is given below, in the Torah section.]
This week: "And it came to pass at the end of two full years [probably 2 years after the butler's release and restoration to his old position], that Pharaoh dreamed..." (Genesis 41:1).
In parsha Miketz we read about Joseph's miraculous ascension from the prison to the palace, and to the position of ruler over Egypt, under Pharaoh. Miketz means "at the end". The word "end" can also be interpreted to mean "extreme", which implies the existence of another, polar "extreme" at the other end of a spectrum. Joseph had been thrown to the extreme bottom of Egyptian society, an ancient foul fortress, for resisting an extreme in moral depravity, adultery. He later rises to another extreme, the top of Egyptian society, by honoring the extreme of moral behavior, Torah integrity. Remember, YHVH's Torah, even the entire Word of Elohim, is comprised of divine instructions and principles[extremes to some] that if honored will produce prosperity of soul and life. Having stated that, it follows that every struggle, every enemy, every trial is a possible passageway to victory and increase for those who walk uprightly. “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome. For whatever is born [begotten] of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcomes the world [the sphere of demonic dominance, disturbance, and tribulation]--even our faith" (1 John 5:3-4) .These are the words of the aged Apostle John, a man of many experiences and trials [extremes]. He writes that the person who is already committed to the will and purpose of Elohim will not find His ways or statutes difficult at all. Why? Because, the opposition to obedience--Spiritual darkness and the world's resistance to the restoration of the Kingdom of God--has already been defeated and overcome by Yeshua. Therefore, how can one who truly believes in and follows Yeshua fail? He cannot!
Note: The power which gives the victory is the Spirit, the Guide of Zion’s travelers, the One Who gives expression to divine Truth. He Himself is divine, not merely an energy or influence. “And when He is come, He will convict the world of sin [unbelief; refute error], of righteousness [wrought in the atoning work of Messiah; brought forth from His death and resurrection for His people], and of judgment.” These are the three categories or themes where the world, which lies under the distressing weight of its own values and principles, has exercised great error and needs enlightenment. Take heed. The evil prince of this world is judged. “(1) He [writer] does not refer to any judgment on Satan for his primordial fall, nor for his deceptive temptations so fatally exercised against man. (2) He refers to the subversion [overthrow] of Satan’s empire, to the abrogation [abolishment] of his usurped [seized wrongfully] rights [power] over man. The [atoning] death of Messiah effected this result in the following way: (a) Sin [power and penalty] was put away by the sacrifice of Himself (Heb. 9:26), the supreme Judge discharged the guilty. (b) The accuser of the brethren could not demand their condemnation (Rom. 8:1). (c) Messiah broke the power of death ‘by destroying him that had the power of death’ (Heb. 2:14).” [1] Through faith in Yeshua’s shed Blood, we become overcomers of the world also (Rev. 12:11), and agents of conviction.
Therefore keep in mind, Messiah has overcome the world and has put to shame its evil elements by: (1) His obedience to death, (2) His conquest of the evil one, (3) His atoning death by which the evil one has been cast out [he is no longer the legal landlord of the planet], and (4) His intercession that secures victory in the lives of them who trust Him. See Hebrews 7:23-28. Our faith unites us to Him, and gives us each an abundant share in His victories. By trusting in His shed Blood, declaring His Name, and confessing His holy Word, the powers of darkness are joined and defeated in our battles. And the glorious testimony that comes forth, again and again, is that Yeshua, for a fact, is the Son of Elohim! This is the witness: the fruit of the Spirit over-coming the works of the flesh.
Torah
Torah Note # 10: Starting with B'resheet [Genesis] 1:28, "Be fruitful and multiply," and reading through to the last commandment in Deuteronomy 31:19, "write ye this song for you, and teach it [to] the children of Israel," we find that a Torah scroll contains 613 commandments. Some laws pertain only to the priests, and some to rulers, such as kings; some apply to men, and others to women. Some statutes, such as the Ten Commandments, apply to everyone. But no one can keep all the commandments. While the Torah has been published in book/scroll form, it was originally written with black ink on sheets of parchment made from the skin of a clean, or kosher, animal, like a sheep or cow. This standard remains common for Torah scrolls today, each of which may contain 62 to 84 cured, tanned, and scraped sheets. The Torah scroll has been the focus of very detailed study from its beginning. Every scroll contains 187 chapters which contain 5,845 verses and 304,805 letters. The most common letter is the "yod" (י) which appears 31,530 times in a scroll. The least common is the letter "tet" (ט), which appears 1,802 times. Each scroll is handwritten by a trained scribe, who uses a quill from a goose or turkey, and has 248 columns, each of which contains 42 lines. Every word must be carefully handwritten in Hebrew. The scroll must be absolutely perfect to be accepted and used in the synagogue, not having an error of any kind. The handwritten scroll is called the Sefer Torah (Sifrei Torah).
1. "And it came to pass at the end of two full years, that Pharaoh dreamed: and behold, he stood by the river" (B'resheit 41:1).
The Scriptures open with the monarch of Egypt having had dreams at night, midnight visions, that bewildered him and left him highly agitated. The wise men, astrologers, and magicians, when summoned, were unable to decipher the dreams, leaving Pharaoh frustrated and even more troubled. The king's butler then remembered his cell mate, Joseph, and explained to his master that the Hebrew had accurately interpreted the butler's and baker's dreams. Joseph was summoned to the royal chamber and interviewed. Pharaoh told him about the two dreams and asked if he can provide an interpretation.
Joseph washed, shaved, and changed clothes before he was brought before Pharaoh. Regarding him with interest curiosity, the king declared his dreams that had baffled his wise men.
2. "Pharaoh said to Joseph, I have had a dream, but no one can interpret it...And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not me; God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace" (B'resheit 41:15-16).
Joseph pointed Pharaoh to YHVH, declaring that interpretations can come only from Him, the divine Interpreter, but by the exercise of prophetic faith he assured Pharaoh that Elohim would give him an answer that would lead to his own happiness and his country's welfare. Joseph then listened to the rehearsal of the night-time visions. Then he declared the interpretation, that seven years of plenty would be followed by seven of famine, and that the dream revealed the certainty of the interpretation because of its repetition. Joseph recommended the implementation of a national strategy, one that would need an able and wise administrator, i.e., himself.
“Can we find such a man like this, in whom is a divine spirit?” (v. 38).
Joseph was thirty when he embarked upon his public ministry for Egypt and for YHVH. He was appointed by Pharaoh’s edict to be the prime minister of the kingdom. Pharaoh had himself admitted that the “divine spirit” was upon the young man, which he perceived through the demonstration of divine revelation and authority that were in Joseph’s words. [The Ruach Elohim was understood by the king of Egypt to be the wisdom and revelation of deity.] Joseph is a type of Messiah Yeshua, the Hebrew who has been exalted to rule the earth. There are many analogies. “He that distributes the bread of life to a perishing race was himself taken from prison, was treated as a malefactor, was declared the Ruler and Savior because the Spirit of God was upon him, was King of kings and Lord of lords. His benefits and blessings distributed to the world are immediately identified with his kingdom. He gathers in that he may give out. He is first the all-wise and all-powerful ruler of seven years of plenty, and then the merciful helper and redeemer in the seven years of famine.” [2]
3. "And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt...and gave him to wife Aseneah..and Joseph was thirty years old..." (read B'resheit 41:41-46).
As befitting one who had already proven himself valuable in service to Pharaoh and Egypt, Joseph was immediately and lavishly recompensed. Joseph's permanent reward: (a) Joseph's recommendations were recognized and accepted, (b) he was promoted as the grand administrator over the entire land (second only to Pharaoh), (c) he received Pharaoh's own ring-signet of authority, (d) he was given a new name-Zaphnath-paaneah, ["the man to whom mysteries are revealed," Targum Onkelos], (e) he was naturalized as an Egyptian prince by virtue of the new name, and (f) he was married to the daughter of the court's high priest, who represented the highest caste of dignitaries in the State, (g) he became wealthy, going from rags to riches in one day, (h) he was divinely placed (and thereby distinguished), by the over-ruling providence [the divine power caring for, sustaining and guiding human destiny] of the Almighty, for the next phase in the fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant, (i) he was validated before his accusers and totally vindicated, (j) he was increased in the knowledge and fidelity of YHVH Himself, and (k) he was given children who were prophesied over by Jacob and received the first-born blessing. In the course of time, as we will read in the last two parshas (l) Joseph was eventually respected and honored by his father and brothers, (m) had a descendant lead Israel in conquering Canaan, and (n) was, in the end, laid to rest in Shechem in the Promised Land, the area allocated by Joshua to be of the tribe of Ephraim.
4. "And unto Joseph were born two sons...the firstborn Manasseh ["making forgetful"]...the second he called Ephraim ["fruitfulness"]..." (B'resheit 41:50-52).
As we have already noted, Joseph was thirty years old when elevated to second in command in the land of Egypt. He had been seventeen when he was sold by his kin to a spice caravan of Midianite traders. He was sold again in Egypt as a slave and served ten years as a bondsman in the house of Potiphar, the provost marshal of the slaughterers [in charge of their execution], and soon became the overseer of the powerful man's estate. He went forth to prison for three years on a charge of which he was entirely innocent. Then, overnight, he was recognized as a wise and able man, and appointed to become the most powerful administrator in the land. He was married to an affectionate wife, Asenath, daughter of Poti-pherah, a priest or prince of notable position in the government. He had two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, who would become tribes in Israel. The names can be considered a testimony to his faith—“God has made me forget my toils and father’s house,” Manasseh; and “God has caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction,” Ephraim. Children who would become joined to Israel were further indications of divine favor. Learn: A. YHVH's school of faith has unusual but effectual ways and means of developing ability and character, and effectively advancing the student toward his/her destiny. B. The case of Joseph's bondages "is a signal illustration [beacon, sign, vivid lesson] of the beneficial uses of adversity, and shows that the true road to success in life, to the acquisition of wisdom, power, wealth, or fame, or of all combined, often lies through early hardships, and trials, disasters, and defeats." [3] Paul's words apply in all circumstances: "In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Messiah Yeshua concerning you" (1 Th. 5:18).
5. "And the seven years of dearth began...all the land of Egypt was famished...and Joseph opened all the storehouses..." (B'resheit 41:53-56).
When the seven years of famine came, Joseph's reputation as a prophet was confirmed. He was also seen as a wise administrator in the policy of grain distribution .Some thoughts: A. It is possible that the grain was purchased from the people during the seven prosperous years. B. The people had been warned of the coming draught and given ample opportunity to use forethought and steward their resources for the day of lack. [Evidently, very few demonstrated conservation or sound stewardship policy.] C. To have gratuitously given the grain, and not to have sold it, would have caused excessive and unequal distribution, with much of the corn ending up in the barns of the clever and greedy of the population for resale and black-marketeering. D. By charging a price, the population was forced to practice frugality and not become patrons entirely dependent upon a welfare state. E. Joseph's wise husbanding policy [judicious use of resources] militated against hording and thus allowed for the sphere of relief to be extended beyond Egypt to the starving countries whose people came to purchase corn. F. Jacob would not have sent his sons if grain had not been for sale.
6. "And Jacob's ten brethren went down to buy corn in Egypt" (B'resheit 42:3).
Joseph's brothers came to buy food. They journeyed together in a large number for safety, and because the grain was being sold and proportioned individually. Hence, more individuals, more corn.
7. "And Joseph saw his brethren, and he knew them, but made himself strange unto them...and Joseph remembered his dreams...and said unto them, Ye are spies..." (B'resheit 42:7-9).
Joseph spoke roughly to them at first. He did not speak from revengeful sentiments or duplicity, but to discern the brothers' hearts, and discover their frame of mind toward him, Benjamin, whose absence was apparent caused concern to the regent of Egypt. Twenty years had passed since the tragic episode at Dothan, and the high position of Joseph, his adopted foreign language and customs, and also the change of his appearance from boyish to mature masculinity, combined to mask his true identity from his siblings. He remembered his dream and challenged them: "You are spying!"
“…nay, my lord…” The lads protested and explained who they were and from where they came.
8. "Hereby shall you be proved...carry corn for the famine...but bring your youngest brother unto me" (B'resheit 42:19-20).
The brothers showed no pride and took no umbrage at the charge, but were genuinely fearful, and humbled. "We are all one man's sons!" The implication of the response: Why would one man send his ten sons on the same trip, at the same time, to the same place on a perilous mission of espionage? Their reply was sufficient to establish their sincerity, but Joseph pressed them further. "Nay, but to see...ye are come." The brothers responded, "Thy servants are twelve brethren...the youngest is this day with his father, and one is not." The assertion was only partially correct. They wished that it would be accepted that the "one [who] is not" was dead, which was not an entirely unreasonable assumption, but it aroused concern in Joseph's bosom for Benjamin. He sent them home on the condition they would return with his younger brother. Simeon was held as the hostage. The boys returned home and gave Jacob the unsettling report.
“…go again and buy us a little food.”
Jacob directed his sons to make a return trip. Reuben’s offer to be responsible for Benjamin was rejected and Judah became the spokesman for the group.
9. "And Judah said unto Israel his father, Send the lad with me..." (B'ersheit 43:8).
Jacob received the ultimatum, "...bring your youngest brother..." and was greatly distraught. Reuben rashly offered to recover Simeon, whom he had just left in jail in Egypt! Jacob could not agree. But the drought persisted and his circumstances continued to deteriorate. "...the famine waxed worse...and Judah spake unto him [Jacob]…the man solemnly warned us…" The family would have to go again for grain but this time Benjamin would also go. Judah took responsibility for Benjamin, and Jacob agreed to send his youngest son, the last of Rachel, with the brothers.
Note: We see in the narrative again the over-ruling providence of the Almighty guiding and shaping the affairs of His people. Jacob had said, "...all these things are against me." Not really. All "these things" were actually working together for his restoration and the welfare of his seed. So it is with us today. "For we know all things work together for good to them that love God..." (Romans 8:28).
Preparations were made. Gifts and double the money were stowed. Jacob’s prayer preceded the brothers to Egypt: “May God Almighty give you mercy before the man.”
10. "...and they took double money in their hand, and Benjamin; and rose up, and went down to Egypt, and stood before Joseph...And he took and set servings unto them..." (read B'resheet 43:15-34)
Joseph received the men kindly and provided dinner. "And he lifted up his eyes, and saw his brother Benjamin, his mother's son, and said, is this your younger brother, of whom ye spoke unto me? And he said, God be gracious unto thee, my son" (Gen. 43:29). He entertained his self-conscious, ill-at-ease brothers, and had them sit according to their birth order as he provided generously for them. As they ate, conversing became more relaxed, and the brethren began to actually enjoy themselves, for "the men marvelled [became astonished, filled with surprise] at one another" as there became apparent among them rising sentiments of cheer and happy fellowship. Such a condition heretofore had been an unfamiliar experience to Jacob's family fold. The process of restoration of the house of Jacob had begun. It is a picture of the Millennium when both houses of Israel, all twelve tribes, will finally be recognized, reconciled, reunited and rejoicing in harmony and with unsullied gladness as they gaze together upon Yeshua in the Messianic kingdom.
"And I will strengthen the house of Judah, and I will save the house of Joseph...and they of Ephraim shall be like a mighty man, and their heart shall rejoice as through wine; yea their children shall see it, and be glad, and their heart shall rejoice in the Lord" (Zech. 10:6-7).
The Holy One of Israel is, by way of these verses, proclaiming wonderful news for all of us, Judah and Ephraim, and all Israel. It is that the prophesied strengthening and uplifting of Judah and Ephraim will be: (a) Real. "I will strengthen." (b) Universal. The promise embraces both Judah and Joseph, the long-divided and rival leading families of Jacob. (c) Complete. The dual action, "strengthen" and "save", indicates an up-building and renewal so powerful and effectual that the debilitating memories and influences of both their pasts will be completely obliterated and forgotten. "They shall be as I had not cast them off." (d) Blessed. "Wine" speaks clearly of causing rejoicing and uninhibited exhilaration, assurance and joy. (e) Permanent. Their "children shall see it" reveals the restoration of YHVH flows down generational lines. Expect challenges as you walk in renewal, nevertheless, good things will continually transpire for you.
11. "Fill the men's sacks with food...put every man's money in his sack's mouth. And put my cup...in the sack's mouth of the youngest..." (B'esheit 44:1-2).
Joseph, not quite finished with testing his brothers, moved with purpose and cunning. He had his butler plant/stash the silver divining cup in the grain sack of Benjamin. The plot was designed for at least two purposes. First, that Benjamin would be arrested as a criminal and detained in Joseph's house. Secondly, and primarily, the ploy was designed to place added stress upon the men, and return them to be challenged before Joseph. He wanted to discern if they could suffer Benjamin's punishment unmoved, without sympathy, as they had before when they had watched with calloused hearts as Joseph, hot, dirty, hungry, and thirsty, was hauled by slave-traders down to Egypt. The plot succeeded and revealed the hearts of the men.
The souls of the men were tried by the unfolding events. We learn from this that no part of our lives are unimportant from a spiritual perspective. Circumstances are ordered to try us (Deut. 8:2). Trials and challenges mature us and reveal character. (Rom. 5:3-5). How are we to stand in the days of trial? By faith in the Blood of the Lamb (Rev. 12:11).
12."And Judah and his brethren came to Joseph's house" (B'resheit 44:14).
Joseph sent his guard after the brothers once they had departed the city. The soldiers discovered the silver chalice in Benjamin's sack and made the men return to Joseph. He confronted the brothers again, then agreed to free them but threatened to hold Benjamin. This appeared as a severe and undeserved sentence, and Judah (not Reuben) pleaded with great humility, simplicity of speech, and sincere emotion, and offered himself as a hostage in Benjamin's place: "Let thy servant abide instead..." We take note of Judah's perception and change of heart by his unexpected confession: "God hath found out the iniquity of thy servants." The old, un-confessed sin had haunted him for years, yet the grace of YHVH had been at work upon the heart of the fourth brother, convicting and converting him. Benjamin was innocent, but not the rest of the brothers, and Judah knew it. He thus bravely committed himself to the compassion and righteousness of Joseph. We are hereby encouraged to remember His Word, not for ourselves only, but especially for our families and nation: "But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound" (Rom. 5:20). This is a reason we must have faith and continue to pray for the harvest and spiritual renewal in our land, and not give up. A momentous, unprecedented outpouring of the Spirit, which would produce a third great spiritual awakening in America, would also bring a great harvest of souls into the Kingdom of God, and awaken and return multitudes of descendants from the House of Israel to their Hebraic heritage faster and with greater power and effectiveness than anything our current restoration ministries could possibly accomplish without such a visitation! Therefore, it makes sense that our teachings should be adjusted to encourage and conduct believers toward such a needed third-millennial glory encounter.
Haftorah
1. "And Solomon awoke and behold it was a dream" (1 Kings 3:15).
This verse is a reflection of Pharaoh’s experience and an emphasis on the fact that the Almighty did, does, and will continue to, direct people by divinely sent dreams. ”I will pour out My Spirit…your sons and daughters will prophesy…old men will dream dreams…young men shall see visions” (Joel 2:28). The haftorah presents the famous story of Solomon's wisdom as evidenced by his dealing with the two harlots who disputed over a surviving infant. Read the account.
Yeshua: The Living Torah "I did not come to abolish but fulfill" (Mt. 5:17).
Yeshua asked Peter a question when He appeared at Galilee where he and other disciples were fishing. “…Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?” (see John 21:15-19). This may have been the most personal and important question Peter had ever been asked. After his denial of Messiah (John: 18:17, 25-27) he was put in a position where he had to decide, out loud and openly, whether or not he indeed possessed a true, deep devotion for his Master. The repeated questions puzzled and hurt Peter, but Messiah Yeshua was actually showing compassion for His disciple by making a way for his restoration and reinstatement as a leader. Yeshua knew that Peter’s typical enthusiasm would not be enough for him to endure in faithful service. His commitment to follow the Master would not last unless he (Peter) was sure of his love for Him. “Two Greek words are used…The first (used in Yeshua’s first two questions) is agapao, which implies an intelligent, thoughtful and purposeful love involving the entire personality, but primarily a decision of the mind and will. The other word is phileo, which implies a warm, natural and more spontaneous sense of feeling and affection—a more emotional love. Through these two words [Hebrew equivalent] Yeshua indicates that Peter’s love must be not only a matter of the mind, but also of the heart. It must be a love motivated by both purpose and [deep] personal attachment.” [4] All of us who are returning to our Hebraic heritage must ask ourselves the same question. The issue is not whether we are willing to love others, study and serve. It is whether we have a true and deeply seated love for the Master. A sincere, heartfelt devotion for Messiah is the only motivation that will enable us to endure in following and serving Him with power (John 14:15; 16:27; Lk. 7:47; 1 Cor. 16:22; 2 Cor. 5:141 Pet. 1:8; Rev. 2:4, etc.). Let us determine afresh to spend time with Him, know Him more intimately, build our love relationship day by day, and be ready to answer “Yes!” to all three questions of the passage.
1. "Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Yeshua Messiah [a reference to the second coming of Yeshua in glory, which is the joy and comfort of all true believers]; Who gave Himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar [special] people, zealous of good works" (Titus 2:13-14).
Judah offered himself as a substitute, to be held hostage in the place of Benjamin. "Now, therefore, I pray thee, let thy servant [Judah] abide instead of the lad [Benjamin]" (B'resheit 44:33). In this he can be seen as a type of Yeshua, the One "Who gave himself for us." Messiah's sacrifice was (a) a priestly deed. The Father gave the Son (John 3:16), and the Son voluntarily "gave Himself", an act that exhibited a depth of divine love and obedience that is unfathomable to man. Further, that Yeshua "gave Himself for us" makes His action (b) vicarious. His sacrifice was substitutionary. He died in our stead and for our benefit. While we were "yet in our sins," and subject to divine judgment, condemnation, and wrath, He had our iniquity charged to Himself. How great is His compassion!
Yeshua's atoning work is here stated as two-fold in effect. First, it provides redemption from iniquity. We are delivered because He purchased us/redeemed us by His shed Blood (2 Sa. 7:23; 1 Pet. 1:18; Rev. 5:9; Gal. 3:13) . The range, or extent, of our redemption is encompassing; it is "from all iniquity" (Eph. 1:4-14). Paul wrote concerning Him: "Who has delivered us from the power of darkness, and has translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son, in whom we have redemption through His shed Blood, even the forgiveness of sins" (Col. 1:13-14). Yeshua's sacrifice delivered us from the power, impurity, and penalty [the liability to punishment because] of our sins. Secondly, Messiah's atoning work provides for the purification of the redeemed people for Himself, sanctified and ardent for good works. This is a work of the Holy Spirit within the hearts of those brought into covenant and fellowship with the Almighty through faith in the Blood of the Lamb. Thus believers have a new standing and peace with God through Yeshua. His intent is to have a consecrated people for set-apart service and priestly worship, a peculiar people separated from the world. These are those who, by redemption, are spiritually united to Messiah, and whose souls have been divinely enlightened and elevated from secularism to kingdom orientation, who have been given mastery over the devil, and want to reign with the Groom. They will be "zealous of good works" because they have become partakers of the Spirit of holiness (Rom. 1:4) and sanctification (1 Peter 1:2).
Yeshua not only took us out of the prison of sin and bondage to corruption, but as was Joseph, He lifted us up to the Throne room. A. He made a new and living way for believers into the presence of Elohim--when the veil was rent and the Holy of Holies was opened. "By a new and living way, which He has consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh; and since we have a great high priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith..." (Heb. 10:20). B. He had raised us up with Him, and has given us a legal position with Him in heavenly places. "And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Messiah Yeshua..." (Eph. 2:6). Our physical bodies are earthbound, but our recreated, born-again spirit man has access to the realm of heaven and glory, and in fact abide in that glory (Ro. 8:11; 1 Cor. 3:16; 2 Tim. 1:14; 1 Jn. 4:12-15). We have intimacy with Messiah because it is for this that He has positioned us.
The Holy Spirit "But you will receive power..." (Acts 1:8).
1. "And there was with us a young man, a Hebrew, servant to the captain of the guard; and we told him, and he interpreted to us our dreams; to each man according to his dream he did interpret" (Gen. 41:12).
The Holy Spirit in the Old Testament: Part 2 of 5
Joseph had been refined/prepared for his future by a long experience in the furnace of abuse and imprisonment. He was ready to stand before Pharaoh, where the butler's testimony would place him, and from there to step into a role of authority and honor. Without the direct involvement of the Holy Spirit assisting him, Joseph would have had no more success in effectively answering the monarch than did the court magicians and astrologers before him.
In the Old Testament we have abundant evidence of the Spirit coming upon and empowering certain people for specific tasks and ministries. In the time of the judges, the backsliding, morally weak Israelite people were often in danger of being over-run and destroyed by surrounding nations. At such times, once the people had repented and returned to YHVH with prayers and supplications, the Holy Spirit would come upon certain individuals (judges, kings, prophets) and specially anoint them, quickening and enabling them to lead their particular tribes/people, deliver them from their oppressors, and oversee their subsequent restoration. In the following examples we will see again that it was always the Holy Spirit's presence and activity that brought forth successful outcomes for the Israelites.
"And when the children of Israel cried unto the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer...even, Othniel...and the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he judged Israel..." (Judges 3:9-10). The same pattern is seen throughout Judges: Israel would fall into in apostasy, then servitude, distress, and finally come to repentance Then, at that point, the Holy Spirit would come upon and empower the selected judges to rally the people and deliver them from their oppressors. Afterwards, there was always a rest period with the renewal of religion and morality. Such was Israel in the days of Othneil.
Early in the referenced episode, when unfaithful Israel had become joined to Baal worship and was sorely oppressed by "Chushan the Wicked", Elohim raised up Othneil, a chieftain, and a kinsman of Caleb, as the deliverer. He went to war and the Lord, who inspired Othneil's courage, delivered the king of Mesopotamia into his hand. The anointed, victorious warrior ascended to judgeship, went on to rule faithfully, and Israel gravitated to his moral authority. The deliverance and re-establishment of the people of Israel as a Torah society, time and again, was completely subject to the orchestration and empowering of the Spirit of YHVH, the Holy Spirit, and not man. True deliverance must always come forth from the presence and empowerment of the Holy One, by His Spirit. Other examples of Spirit-anointed and inspired judges includes Deborah (Judges 4), Gideon (Judges 6:34), Jephthah (Judges 11:29), and Samson (Judges 14 and 15), and others. With all these individuals the pattern was the same. Hence, the success of the Judges in both war and social administration must be attributed to the Holy Spirit's personal and direct involvement with them, and their yieldedness to Him.
The Spirit came upon kings of Israel as well as the judges. "Then Samuel took a vial of oil and poured it upon his head...and said...the Spirit of the Lord will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy...and the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied among them" (1 Samuel 10:1-10). Saul was anointed to be the King of Israel [the term here also means "war leader"] and he was prophesied over by the prophet-judge, Samuel. Saul was told, "the Spirit of YHVH will come upon you". The Hebrew meaning of the phrase could be written, "the Spirit will come mightily, in an over-powering fashion, upon you, and though untrained, you will prophesy exuberantly under His heavy unction, and from the experience be inwardly transformed into a different man." This Spirit-inspired prophesy meant that Saul, by the Spirit coming upon him, would be renewed and invigorated in his soul, given new thoughts and emotions, new physical stamina, and mental prowess which would enable him to know YHVH more personally, take wise action, lead Israel, and subdue enemies in any event or situation that arose during his reign. Samuel's word was good, and came to pass. The Spirit descended on Saul as prophesied, imparted and sustained new endowments [charismata] with which Saul was wonderfully enriched, and that were demonstrated when the new king later defeated the Ammonites. For a short season, while he exercised holy faith and honorably discharged his sacred duties, Saul lived victoriously and "...tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come" (Heb. 6:5)
Saul did not maintain obedience to the Torah and the Spirit of Elohim left him. "But the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul..." (1 Sam 16:14). The Spirit leaving him refers to the special, divine empowerment, presence, and peace once given, being lifted and withdrawn. As a result the king was left powerless and exposed, open to inner and outer enemies, frail (and knowing it), and susceptible to failure, in a much worse condition than he had been before the Spirit's visitation/coming to rest on him. [Read: Hebrews 6.]
Let us go further, and briefly recall David. "Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him...and the Spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day forward..." (1 Sam 16:13). The Spirit came upon David and remained [not in the New Covenant sense of regeneration and indwelling, but empowering], even through David's three backsliding episodes. This is because unlike Saul, he always genuinely repented of his transgressions. Thus, David was basically very successful as a leader, warrior, king, prophet, and psalmist. His success is attributable to the presence and prowess of the Spirit of YHVH active on his behalf during his life.
"You shall receive power..." (Acts 1:8). Old Covenant Israel experienced the Spirit coming upon servants, judges, and kings for a greater or lesser period of time according to the servant's faithfulness and YHVH's purposes. However, New Covenant Israel--the houses of Judah and Ephraim/Israel, and all their companions in faith all over the world--have the Spirit, and His power not only on us (see: 1 Peter 4:14), but in us (see: John 14:16-18; 1 Cor. 3:16; 6:19). The New Covenant is distinguished by and blessed with the promise of the Spirit permanently (a) upon, (b) within, and (c) remaining with Believers through the new birth spoken of by Messiah in John 3:1-16. Take notice. "...having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, Who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God's own possession, to the praise of His glory" (Eph. 1:13-14). The indwelling Spirit is represented as the pledge, an earnest, a down payment (so to speak), of our future life. He is the Promise of our inheritance of a new, immortal body that will be divinely fashioned for abiding in His unmitigated [not lessened or decreased; full] glory. "But if the Spirit of Him who raised Yeshua from the dead dwells in you, He who raised up Messiah Yeshua from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you" (Roman 8:11).The Spirit is a blessing and a security Who now makes us His home, His holy temple. Wonderful.
A significant, but sometimes over-looked purpose of the Hebrew roots movement, that is now becoming increasingly obvious, is the call for a more complete return of the Ecclesia to the fullness of the power and presence of the Spirit, which were distinguishing characteristic of the early Apostolic Believer. Why press the issue, one might ask? We do so because the Ecclesia must not be unlearned, or inhibited and reluctant with her display of trust and affection for the Holy Spirit, but become openly yielded/surrendered to the Him--if Yeshua is to be Master and Husband of His fold. The function of the Apostles and disciples, which is insisted upon in Scripture, is to be witnesses, effectual witnesses. The Holy Spirit is the precious gift of the Father--sent by Yeshua to regenerate and permanently indwell and empower Believers, making them new creations and anointed ambassadors of His kingdom! He makes this possible! [See: 2 Cor. 5:17.] Throughout the Word, the Spirit is associated with supernatural, divine power, power [including fruit, gifts, signs, and wonders] with which the Saints are to live and function in their Messianic calling while under the scrutiny of the whole earth. [See: Luke 4:14; 10:38; 24:49; Rom. 15:13; 1 Cor. 2:4; Eph. 3:16; Heb. 4:6.]
It would profit withal if every Messianic Believer would examine their faith, and discover to what extent their religion (a) is based upon Holy Spirit visitation/activity and (b) imbibes of or remains under His revolutionary, radical renewal power.
Next week will discuss the Holy Spirit and the Old Testament prophets.
Knowing His Voice through the Communion of the Spirit
"Pharaoh said to Joseph, I have had a dream, but no one can interpret it...Joseph then answered Pharaoh saying, it is not me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer...God hath told Pharaoh what He is about to do" (Gen. 41:15-16,25).
Joseph was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh and commenced his public ministry. It was the Spirit of Elohim Who gave him the faith and inspiration to declare the interpretation for the dreams, and the courage and presence of mind to make appropriate recommendations before Pharaoh. He would not have ventured (with any hope) into the palace on such a mission if YHVH had not been with him. He stood before the court, responded promptly to the request of the monarch, trusted His Elohim, and perceived the meaning of the dreams as it was imparted into his mind by the Spirit. Hearing and accurately perceiving of and reacting to the word/the voice of YHVH, by faith, made the difference between victory or failure.
YHVH breathed into Adam the Spirit of life and he became a living soul, an Elohim-conscious, a self-aware human being, a soul with divine consciousness. His spirit was that part of him that was united with, and one with, YHVH, his Creator. It was eternal, like YHVH Himself. Today, the Holy Spirit leads regenerated, Spirit-indwelt Believers through their recreated, divinely anointed spirits. This is where He bears witness with us [some consider this as Spirit enhanced intuition], and speaks to us with His still small voice. Our souls receive and hear the Spirit's voice, His word, and we discern the nature and meaning of the sanctified impression. We believe the soul is the seat of the human intellect, emotions, and will (the "wanter"), and as such is spiritually unreliable in correctly discerning and processing divine input. It needs sanctification and training to recognize and comply correctly with YHVH’s voice coming through the sanctified inner man. The soul is easily manipulated by the sinful nature, and also by various other inner and outer stimuli such as lust, worldliness and demonic interference. It therefore must be regularly exercised and renewed by the Word and ministry of the Spirit to effectively perceive, discern and obey divine leading. Good hearing, understanding, and response to His voice/word are the sweet fruit of the communion with the Spirit of Elohim.
"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ , and the love of God [the Father, Abba], and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen" (2 Cor. 13:14).
Elohim in His fullness is represented in this full, apostolic benediction which Paul bestowed upon the Corinthian Ecclesia after correcting them in the first, more stern letter. The troubled congregation seemed to have improved its spiritual condition, benefiting especially from its renewed obedience to authority and liberality in giving, and settled down after profiting from the Apostle's letter and visit. Let us examine the rich blessings which Paul commended upon the Corinthians, and set our hearts upon them.
First, a true blessing is not comprised of (does not invoke) earthly pleasures, carnal enjoyment or even human friendship, as pleasant as these can be for us. Rather, it promotes the higher, more noble and sublime benefits of the soul [spiritual restoration or refreshing, revelation, love, joy, holy peace, and much more] and invokes (extols and petitions, appeals, solicits) life-enriching, spiritual blessings that only YHVH (not the world) can directly provide. Secondly, a true blessing will embody a consciousness (an appreciation, an awareness) of the value/significance of divine fellowship and commend heavenly revelation and blessed visitation upon the recipient. This Paul did. The "grace of our Lord Jesus Christ" refers to Yeshua's favor and goodness, and everything that His grace could possibly involve, embrace, and bestow. "The love of God" would be the riches of YHVH's divine love (the Father's love) and all the revelation of that divine love brings forth in one's life. And, "...the communion of the Holy Spirit" which refers to intimate fellowship, rapport, mutual participation and cooperation with the Spirit, and the experience of His reality and life in sweet fellowship. Further, union of the Believer and the Holy Spirit imparts an enlightening revelation and growing awareness of (1) the living reality of Yeshua and (2) the Father's love. This is life-changing! The flow of such blessings, along with sanctification, understanding of truth, preservation in time of peril, comfort, victory, empowerment to witness, and more, are largely dependent upon our participation in the communion of the Holy Spirit and submission to His voice.
Paul prayed for the Corinthians, and by way of them, us, that the experience of the fullest measure this blessing (appeal to YHVH) "be with you all." The benediction is for all Believers. Trust the Son. Partake of the available communion with and communication of the eternal Spirit. Obey Him, and do not minimize, quench, grieve, or ignore Him. Here is the point: In this life here on earth, the Holy Spirit is the only One with Whom you can have regular, daily, conscious communion and fellowship. All we receive from heaven in this life is from, by, and of the Spirit of Elohim. Abba is on the Throne of Grace and Yeshua has completed His work and is at the Right Hand of Glory. Apart from unusual visitations, we can have our regular fellowship with the Spirit. What a profound benefit! He is a Gift, sent to magnify the Son, and empower and bring the Bride [His followers, those who emulate His words] to a state of readiness, in Word and in Spirit, for Her coming Bridegroom. The Hebrew roots movement is an important, current end-times aspect of that preparation.
Pre-requisite in welcoming the Spirit's leadership is to remember and adhere to Yeshua's teaching. "...the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life" (John 6:63). The first benefit we want to discuss (others will follow next week) resulting from the "communion of the Spirit" is hearing Him bring the precious, faith-inducing words of Messiah to our minds and hearts again. "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things and bring to your remembrance [re-communicate directly, or by renewal/enlargement of memory], whatsoever I have said unto you" (John 14:26).
Listen to the Spirit. As the Son revealed the Father, likewise the mission of the Holy Spirit is to reveal and magnify the Son, Yeshua, and renew His words of Spirit and life. The Spirit's education ministry is two-fold, therefore. First, He teaches new truth [See: Galatians 1], and brings revelation. Secondly, He brings all truth, from the Torah right through to the Apostolic Scriptures, to remembrance and illumination. In this way He renews faith, convicts and corrects, provides guidance, and prepares us as disciples of the Messiah. The words of Yeshua (Who is the living Torah) provide the foundation for His operation with the New Covenant Ecclesia.
Glory Note # 10: The physical creation, heaven and earth, reveal the Glory of YHVH. "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork" (Ps. 19:1). His glory is His manifold goodness, which is revealed in many wonderful displays of His great love, such as mankind's redemption through Messiah Yeshua. Look for and discover manifestations of His glory in your life this week.
In the next few lessons we will discuss further: (1) what the "communion of the Spirit" is, (2) how to enter into and remain in that communion, and (3) what His voice/word speaks into us via the communion of the Spirit; that is, how we benefit.
Parsha Summary
1. "That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God" (1 Cor. 2:5).
Here is Paul’s exhortation to rely upon the wisdom, word, and power of the Almighty in all circumstances. "As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God" (Rom. 8:14).
The Pharaoh dreamed, the butler remembered, Joseph came out of prison and was made viceroy by Pharaoh, and his brothers came to him in Egypt. In the events we discover YHVH working behind the scenes, imparting wisdom, moving with power, accomplishing His intentions for Jacob's house. So, "at the end" of two more years in prison, things turned out well for Joseph after all, and his family was brought forward and positioned for reconciliation and a new beginning. What can we surmise from the reading? The world by its own wisdom cannot know YHVH, or His kingdom, power, or glory, any more than the magicians of Pharaoh's court could interpret his dreams. But you know Him because He is with you, and is in you. See: John 14:16-18 and Acts 1 and 2. Therefore, O Israel, rejoice! Do not allow your struggles (they are part and parcel of life) overcome you. But fear the Lord, walk in His integrity, by faith imbibe of Hthe wisdom of His Word and His power, and He will lift you (as He did Joseph) as high and take you as far as you hope.
"He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dung hill; that He may set him with princes, even the princes of His people" (Psalm. 113:7-8).
Note: Though there are many things to admire about Joseph,we know he was not perfect. It should be recognized that, as viceroy over Egypt, he seemed more interested in bringing the people under greater control of Pharaoh than of advancing their own conditions, and benefitting them. What is more, concerning the private life of the appointed prime minister, Joseph, we observe in the entire story that”…he was soon led to conform to the spirit and practice of the ungodly nation. He used a divining cup (44:15-16), took his meals apart (43:32), recognizing and sustaining class distinctions. He learned the mode of speech common among the Egyptians, swore by the life of Pharaoh (42:15), and was affianced to an idolatress, probably a priestess (41:45). He made no effort to return to his own land, or to the pastoral life of his fathers. It was in his power also for nine years to have sent to make search for his father, who was sorrowing for him as dead, but he sent not [for him]…not until trouble, and by apparent chance, drove his brethren to him did he appear to think of them, or of home or Jacob. When they came he was very slow to make himself known, as though he feared it might compromise him in the eyes of the Egyptians to be known to have relatives who were shepherds, an occupation which was abominable to the Egyptians (44:34). When he revealed himself to them, it was without the knowledge or presence of the Egyptians. He removed his brethren also to a distinct part of Egypt, that they might not constantly, by their presence remind him and others of their origin. [Thus] we fancy that Joseph had weaknesses and imperfections such as other men had. He dwelt in Egypt and caught its spirit [at least to a degree]. In the names that he gave to his children there seems some indication of regret at his forgetfulness and wonder at his fruitfulness. Amid views that might depress there is some brightness. His forgiveness of his brethren was noble. His affection for his father returned [resurfaced]. His faith in God was pure at last. Dying, he ‘gave commandment concerning his bones.’ He showed [in the end] that though outwardly an Egyptian, he was inwardly an Israelite.” [5]
“For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart” (1 Sam. 16:7).
Hear His Voice
“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).
Yeshua said to His disciples, “I have called you friends” (see John 15:13-15). When obedient Believers begin to see themselves as disciples and friends of Messiah, our prayers will become stronger, more faith-filled and Spirit-led. The story Yeshua told in Luke chapter eleven, which followed His comments on the Lord’s Prayer, may help us understand the vitality of friendship. A man with a need went to a friend and said, “…lend me three loaves…trouble me not [was the reply]…I cannot rise and give thee…I [Yeshua] say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity [persistent prayer] he will rise and give him as many as he needeth” (Luke 11:5-8).
The person asking for bread received because of his persistence, which is described as “shameless” [bold, confident, forward]. Generally, people shamelessly, or by persistent boldness that is void of fear, persist only with their friends. Friendship makes this possible. Usually we have nothing to hide from our friends, have a level of intimacy with them, are unafraid to show passion, and are therefore more inclined to persist with them than with a stranger. The more we grow in our friendship with YHVH, and the more we become accustomed to His voice, the more bold and confident we will be to come and remain before Him.
“You will seek Me, inquire for, and require Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13).
Be careful! Lukewarmness creeps slowly among the brethren and is always a subtle, present threat. Spiritual passivity must be resisted. It keeps us from growing in the knowledge of Yeshua. A commitment to spend time with Him is absolutely necessary for spiritual progress. Making appointments with him, and keeping them, is profitable. Persistence is required to reach the place where we are receiving deeper understanding of His word, enjoying intimate communion with Him, and sharing your heart, and hearing his voice.
Section 3: Vision and Parsha Study
"Out from the throne came flashes of lightning and sounds and peals of thunder, and in front of the throne seven blazing torches burned, which are the seven Spirits of God [seven-fold ministry of the Holy Spirit]" (Rev. 4:5).
Messianic Israel is called to make, by faith and obedience to His Truth, His anointing, His tangible presence, and His discernible, manifest glory, dominant internal and external realities in our lives. With this intent in mind, we have provided a study methodology for your examination. Please read it and follow the study instructions. They explain the pathway of progress toward this pursuit of regaining the fullest possible measure of our spiritual heritage, the knowledge and experience of the Spirit and Truth of the Holy One of Israel. May the time we spend in prayer and study become times of divine encounters.
Torah and Glory School Method: "...search for Me..." (Jeremiah 29:13). This section is provided to help the student read beyond the basic commentary that we have presented, and study carefully all the Scriptures in the week's parsha for themselves. As each reader presses more deeply into the Word and learns to depend more consistently on the Spirit in his/her search for greater knowledge and intimacy with Yeshua, increased personal enrichment and spiritual transformation will be experienced and enjoyed. Section 3 contains a review of the weekly parsha's Scriptures, their topical content, and our questions. Working with each week's Scriptures and Questions is very important to our purpose. They are designed to assist the student to (1) develop a vision for the restoration and reconciliation of the whole house of Israel, (2) grow in foundational knowledge of the Torah, (3) recover the principles, practice, and Holy Spirit power of the early, first-century Nazarene believers, and (4) experience and enjoy greater dimensions of the kingdom, power, and glory of Yeshua.
The assigned Scriptures and Questions, along with Section Four's prayer and bless activities, comprise (5) the heart of the Torah and Glory School's study program by which the student can be most edified and advanced spiritually. By them the student learns on his/her own while depending on, and thereby coming to know more personally, the Holy Spirit. We strongly encourage each student to rely upon the Spirit/Ruach--for understanding, revelation, insight, illumination of the Word, edification, and divine fellowship--during prayer, worship, and study. He is the close-at-hand primary Teacher of the course, not this author. Learning the Almighty's voice and experiencing His manifest glory, not just acquiring more information, are central goals of the Torah and Glory School. The Scriptures--reading them while listening for the Holy Spirit, and the Questions--writing answers while under the Spirit's unction and receiving divine input, work together to comprise (6) the student's chief means of personal practice/exercise/training in seeking, waiting on, listening for, and promptly responding to the voice/word of Elohim. And by such seeking, faith-motivated students position themselves [spiritually, mentally, and emotionally prepare themselves] for experiencing a visitation of Yeshua's presence and glory through the Spirit. In this way the Scriptures and Questions also become (7) the channels through which the Spirit of Messiah will directly communicate personal instruction, direction, wisdom, and comfort to each engaged person. The students who faithfully follow the "game plan" and remain committed to do so for the year, will be transformed. They will enjoy much closer fellowship with the Father, and Yeshua, His Son, and hearing the voice of the Holy Spirit, especially by the end of Deuteronomy.
We exhort each reader to trust the Ruach HaKodesh to guide and teach from His Word. In the week’s readings listed below, find common themes. Look for types of Messiah Yeshua. Listen for His Voice.
Scripture Review and Questions: Now, read through the parsha while allowing the Spirit to illuminate the Scriptures, and then answer the questions using your own words.
Prayer: "Open my eyes that I may behold wonderful things from your law" (Psalm 119:18).
Genesis 41:1-44:17: Pharaoh's dreams/ Joseph's interpretations/ Joseph as viceroy of Egypt/ Manasseh and Ephraim/ Famine/ Joseph's brothers to Egypt/ Return to Canaan/ To Egypt with Benjamin/ Silver chalice discovered in Benjamin's sack/ Brothers tested.
1 Kings 3:15-4:1: Solomon dreams.
1 Corinthians 2:1-5: Reliance on the power and wisdom of God.
Study Questions: "...be ready always to give an answer..." (1 Peter 3:15). Trace the theme, the main idea, through each question.
1a. In your opinion, what is the main theme or teaching of each of the listed readings individually? Starting with the Torah: What is its title? What is the interpretation? What truth/idea does the interpretation of the title suggest? What is the Torah section's main truth, as you see it?
1b. What is the corresponding idea in the Haftorah? In the Brit Chadashah?
2. What is the outstanding, central idea or subject that runs through and unites all the individual readings, as you see it?
3. Find in the Gospels where and how Yeshua declares, demonstrates, exemplifies, or exhibits the parsha's central truth, and explain. Give chapter and verse.
4. In what way was the glory of YHVH [manifestations of His goodness] revealed in the parsha lesson?
5. What does the parsha teach you about your Hebrew roots, your identity, your destiny, your duty?
6. In what way did the Holy Spirit/Ruach HaKodesh personally speak to you during prayer and study this week? Did He impress you about how to apply the parsha lesson directly to your life? Explain.
7. "...because of practice [by reason of use] have their senses trained [exercised] to discern..." You and I are called to return to hearing the voice of Elohim and to functioning in the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Progressing in these vital areas will require spiritual hunger, faith, and practice. He is waiting for us to approach Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to speak into your spirit/heart as you pray each day. Look for opportunities to lay hands on the sick, or to be used in prophesy. Faithfully record the prophetic words and experiences you receive, and be sure to share them with your brethren.
It is helpful to share your answers, insights, and revelations with your study group (table class). We recommend meeting regularly in a small group. This allows for healthy interaction and exchange, and militates against stagnation. Practice operating with your spiritual gifts under the anointing of the Holy Spirit while among your friendly, supportive peers. Allow for open participation in leading praise and worship. Give altar calls at your table for healing, refreshing, and prophetic words. These are effective ways for all present to mature in their calling and gifting. The non-threatening small group provides a favorable and encouraging environment in which to learn the ministry of the Spirit.
Section 4: Prayer, Declaration, and Blessing
"On this wise shall ye bless the children of Israel, saying unto [over] them, the Lord bless thee...keep thee..." (Num. 6:23-24).
Important: Participate each week in the Bless the Land prayer, benediction, and singing exercises/activities, both individually and with your group. This is important for yourself and others. Your joining in with vocal participation--blessing and strengthening Israel with your spoken words, prophetic utterances, sung psalms, and intercessions--will also help develop and enlarge your prophetic anointing and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Daniel, who daily faced Jerusalem and Israel from his house in exile to pray, is an example of what we can do weekly from our homes today. "...Daniel...entered his house(now his roof chamber had windows open toward Jerusalem); and he continued kneeling...praying and giving thanks before his Elohim" (Daniel 10).
Bless the Land: "On this wise shall ye bless the children of Israel, saying unto them [declaring the Word to and over them], the Lord bless thee...keep thee..." (Num. 6:23). YHVH wanted to bless, keep, and shine His glory on His people. So He had his priests stand in His place [stand in for Him] and proclaim the blessings, which He in turn would perform for the believing recipients. Believers have a similar role today, as did Aaron and the priests in ancient Israel. "But you are...a royal priesthood..." (1 Pet. 2:9). When we take our place as a responsible priesthood and begin to declare the written and prophetic word and will of YHVH, even spontaneous songs, over His people, He will rise up and perform that which has been declared. He works in partnership with his set-apart royal priesthood. Therefore, "...bless, for to this you were called, that you may receive a blessing" (1 Pet. 3:9).
Note: "The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life" (Prov. 10:11). Believers' mouths are connected to the spiritual power that created the universe. Our words possess/carry both constructive power (building up) and destructive (tearing down) power. Job 22:28; Luke 4:18-19; Mt. 21:21; 28: 18-20; Acts 1:8; 2:4; Rom. 12:6-8; 1 Cor. 12: 1-11; Eph. 6:17-19; Rev. 8:3). "Death and life are in the power of the tongue" (Prov. 18:2). Therefore, let us fulfill our priestly role and declare with confidence His Word over Jerusalem, Israel, and the nation this week.
1. Pray for Israel.
Isaiah 43:1-7. Please continue to meditate upon and use this Scripture passage (and those that follow) throughout our time in Genesis/B'resheet. Commit to pray at least once a week for the land, Judah, and all the people of Israel; for their welfare, safety, and return to righteousness. Use the prophetic words of Scripture as prayers and declarations.
2. Pray for Jerusalem.
Psalm 122:1-9. Speak this passage over the Holy City.
3. Pray for America/Pray for your nation.
1 Chron. 7:14. Intercede for the nation. Pray for repentance, a spiritual awakening, and a harvest in all the cities your nation.
4. Sing the Song of the Lord/Prophetic songs. [Teaching/Exhortation]
"And he washed his face, and went out, and refrained himself, and said, set on bread [provide the meal]" (Gen. 43:31).
Joseph had experienced emotional upheaval in meeting with his estranged brothers, and had spent time weeping uncontrollably as years of resentment and sadness conflicted with joy and overflowed his soul with bittersweet emotions. [Note: Joseph was human, and therein he illustrated that true faith in YHVH does not suppress one's humanness, but instead produces, refines, and brings forth what are the best and most noble qualities of a person, i.e. the fruit of the Spirit. Men demonstrate humility and love toward YHVH only to the extent they exhibit such endowments (which are matured by time) toward others.] Later, when he was recovered, he returned to eat with them. Elohim was not uncaring or trifling with Joseph's emotions in the unfolding events. He was however working out His divine, far-reaching plan for Jacob and his entire family to be rescued from drought, poverty and loss, and settled and protected in Egypt. There they would be secure for centuries from invading armies, delivered from famine, pass through a period of trial in the house of bondage, multiply descendants, and grow into a nation.
The Song of the Lord is often associated in Scripture with rescue and deliverance, and as such has been referred to as a song of deliverance. Deliverance, of course, is a subject much revisited in the history of Israel. It will be visited again in the challenging times of conflict ahead, and songs will be sung by many Believers who are active in the restoration of all Israel. It is wise to become familiar with singing these songs, even from our own experiences.
"Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah (Psalm 32:7). This psalm is regarded as one of the seven penitential psalms, and traditionally forms a part of the synagogue service on the Day of Atonement. But it is a jubilant song as well. "Songs of deliverance" are the songs Believers (then and now) sing forth joyfully proclaiming wonderful divine deliverances from destruction and danger. Songs of deliverance (1) can be songs of faith that boldly declare YHVH's promises in the midst of trial or conflict, that wield the Sword of the Spirit against the enemy and "call the things that are not as though they are." "Faith is...the evidence of things not seen..." (Heb.11:1). They are also (2) songs extolling past victories, and that build faith, inspire vision, and galvanize action as they resound in the ears, minds and hearts of the hearers. They are hymns inspired by heaven that have been sung in various forms in congregations, encouraging and reminding the Saints of Elohim's power and faithfulness for centuries, and thereby enriching spiritual life.
"He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. He hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord" (Psalm 40:2-3). Here the psalmist praises and gives thanksgiving to YHVH for a great deliverance. He had been brought out of a pit of tumult and misery, and out of a situation so grim that it is compared to the horrible muck found at the bottom of a filthy cistern. He rejoices that his feet are on solid ground, his stepping has been made sure, he is saved from calamity, and forgiven. Such a profound deliverance opens widely the human heart to Elohim, making it grateful, sensitive and receptive to divinely given grace, and inspires thanksgiving and exuberant praise. They that hear the song extolling the deliverances of the Almighty for His people will hear, be given hope, and receive strengthened faith for their challenges too.
The Song of Deliverance, by virtue of its nature, releases deliverance to all Israel. Remember your salvation, and lift up your own voice this week and sing, like a psalmist, an inspired new song about your own deliverance from the hands of your enemies by the supernatural might of Elohim's Spirit. Use one of the songs listed below if you'd like. May your declaration (1) encourage your heart, (2) cause the enemy to depart [See: Mt. 4:1-8], and (3) be sung for someone to hear, and then from it take hope.
Note: Speaking and singing the Word, which is using the sword of the Spirit, is utilizing a part of the disciples' armor as taught by Paul in Ephesians, chapter six. This is expected of us. Yeshua resisted the Devil's temptations three times by openly speaking the Word of Elohim. In that way, Satan was denied, defeated and left the scene. The open declaration of the Word of Elohim (enforcing His edicts, binding the enemy) resulted in (1) deliverance from the revolting arrogant and presumptuous challenge of sin drawing so close in the person of Satan, and (2) rest from the assault. Go and do (by speaking, or even singing) likewise.
Songs of deliverance are inspired new songs, and include: The Song of Moses (Ex. 15:1-3), the Song of Deborah and Barak (Jud. 5:1), and David's song to Saul (1 Sam. 16:14-23).
"So shall my word be which goeth forth out of my mouth; it shall not return to me void (empty), but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I send it" (Isa. 55:11)
Section 5: Conclusion
1. "And they sat before him, the firstborn according to his birthright, and the youngest according to his youth: and the men marveled at one another" (Gen. 43:33).
The last time the brothers had looked upon Joseph was when he was bound by ropes, and being pulled along by a Midianite camel toward Egypt. But years later in an Egyptian palace, when looking upon him, the same brothers did not recognize him at all. Joseph, by faithfully acknowledging YHVH's presence and authority in his life, was able to go from one extreme to the other, and be transformed in the journey, as YHVH had (also) faithfully worked all events and conditions together to establish His purposes, and for Joseph's (and ultimately Israel's) good.
2. "Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me" (Ps. 119:133).
Joseph was able to overcome adversity and survived his exile by his adherence to the Torah instruction that he had received from Jacob, his father. Joseph was home-schooled, and was also the "pet" pupil in Jacob's Yeshiva. This schooling imparted to him spiritual truth, inspiration, and faith. Thus, "the Lord was with him" always because Joseph, having been taught carefully by his father, had remained on the Almighty's pathways.
3. "And the Lord said unto Cain, where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I don't know: Am I my brother's keeper?" (B'resheit 4:9).
A lesson that we, grafted-in, returning Israelites, can glean from the week's reading is understanding the importance of uniting our personal interests with the greater, more expansive, eternal interests and purposes of YHVH in (a) serving people while (b) working for the restoration of Israel. Our individual salvation provides each of us with the grace and love whereby we can dedicate ourselves to the restoration of the kingdom, power, and glory of God to all Israel. Personal and family life that is founded squarely upon prophecies of Scripture which (for instance) forecast the restoration of Israel--an issue foremost in the heart of the Almighty--will sustain holy faith and live, and assure His favor and blessing upon such focused, faithful lives and industries. Israel's restoration and the reconciliation of the Body of Messiah will bring YHVH great glory and ultimately produce a glorious welfare for mankind. Uniting with others of the same heart is an expression of attempting to be our "brother's keeper."
"At the end of" (Miketz) every trial, behind every enemy, at the conclusion of the battle, is the the reward and uplifting of the Almighty. Obstacles are in place for us to overcome. "But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you, and keep you from evil" (2 Thess. 3:3).
Pray boldly, in faith: "Let me see thy glory." His glory is in you by the Spirit. Pray and wait for His presence to rise up and envelope your soul with His goodness and revelation of His heart. Remember, He has a keen and enduring interest in helping you know Him more intimately.
Next week: VaYigash ("And he drew near")
Remember. Growth takes "lifting." Complete your answers and exercises. They represent the "weights" that the Holy Spirit will use to build a strong, well-proportioned spiritual physique.
References: Weekly references generally include, but are not limited to, the following: Kehot Chumash; Spirit-Filled Life Bible; Pulpit Commentary, H. Spence and J. Exell, Eerdmans; Torah Club; Restoration Scriptures, Your Arms to Israel Publishing; Chumash, Stone Edition; Hearing from God, J. Meyer; Chabad.org. Parashah; Old Testament Survey, K. Conner; www.familybible.org/BeitMidrash/FAQ/Torah.htm; Torah, A Modern Commentary, W. G. Plaut; Fodor's Exploring Israel, A Sanger; Judaism 101 Torah; The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible, AMG Publishers; Restoration: Returning the Torah of God to the Disciples of Jesus, D.T. Lancaster; Christianity Reconsidered, W.L. Bowles; Living Israeli Hebrew, Dr. D. Ben-Gigi, Living Israeli Hebrew Publications; Hebrew Word Pictures, Dr. F. Seekins, Living Word Pictures, Inc.; Torah Insights, R. Fischer; FireBible, Student Edition, NIV, Life Publishers International; Internet Sites; Jewish Encyclopedia. com.
Footnotes: 1. Gospel of John, Pulpit Commentary, Eerdmans, p.312. 2. Genesis, Pulpit Comm., Eerdmans, p.467. 3. Ibid, p. 41. 4. FireBible, Student Edition, Life Publishers, p. 1492. 5. Genesis, Pulpit Comm., Eerdmans, p. 469.
