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
February, 2012
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 Nineteen: Terumah ("Offering")
Torah: Exodus [Sh'mot] 25:1-27:19
Haftorah: 1 Kings [Melechim Alef] 5:12-6:13
Brit Chadashah: Hebrew [Irvim] 8:1-13
Sections: 1. Welcome 2. Weekly Commentary 3. Study and Hearing 4. Prayer 5. Conclusion
Section 1: Welcome to the Word
ט
Tet. The letter tet means to “surround.” Its shape suggests enclosure. The verses of the stanza (verses 65-72) begin with tet, and they teach us that YHVH’s instructions provide wisdom and direction for life, and instill discernment to distinguish between true and false, right and wrong. The anti-Messiah spirit of this age surrounds Believers with lies and attempts to persuade us away from truth. “They compassed [surround] me about with words of hatred…” (Psalm 109:3). Instead we must enclose ourselves in the “secret place of the Most High” [i.e., His Word; walking in the light] where no falsehood or evil can befall us. “For thou YHVH wilt bless the righteous; with favor wilt thou compass [enclose, protect] him as with a shield” (Psalm 5:12). Let His favor fill your hearts and surround you, securing you from the threat of any enemy.
“Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word. Thou art good, and doest good; teach me thy statutes. The proud have forged a lie against me: but I will keep thy precepts with my whole heart” (Psalm 119:67-69).
We continue with the next three verses from the “tet” stanza, which, as do all the stanzas of Psalm 119, consists of eight verses. The idea of affliction is prominent in the verses. The psalmist believes that the afflictions and difficulties he has had to endure have actually been good for him (Heb. 12:10-11). They have helped him to not go astray from YHVH’s word, and are evidence of divine wisdom and goodness. The malice of the psalmist’s enemies served only to unite his heart to obey Elohim. Note: Afflictions make up a large portion of our lives and have value and purpose. They can drive us to call out to heaven and make YHVH’s promise—the “word on which He has caused us to hope”—our refuge in times of trial. “There are some lessons which we cannot [or will not] learn in the light, but can learn in darkness. When all other means fail to affect us, the strong rod of affliction arouses us, and awakens us to neglected truth. Then we see that to which we have been strangely blind; then we turn from the evil track and fatal precipice, and enter once more the way of wisdom, the path of life. Instead of a dangerous indulgence is a wise restraint; instead of increasing worldliness is a deepening joy of devotion; instead of questionable companionships is the society of the holy; instead of slackness in service is the steady flame of zeal; instead of half-heartedness is whole-heartedness…” How great is the friendship of Messiah Yeshua. His words produce life. [1]
"Let my heart be sound in thy statutes; that I be not ashamed" (Psalm 119:80). The Law of YHVH is the delight of the psalmist. And he looks for YHVH's "tender mercies" to visit him, and restore him. He wants his life to become an exercise in His Torah and testimony. People will see him and be glad, for they will take note that the Almighty has not forsaken the psalmist, but has blessed him who has continued to trust in His promise. Hence, the writer longs to be "perfect in thy statutes"--in knowledge and in practice. May your reading this week bring you a revelation of the goodness and wisdom of Elohim, and strengthen your faith. Tamid kadima-Always forward!
Section 2: Weekly Commentary
Last week: "Now these are the ordinances [mishpatim; judgments] which you [Moses] are to set [present with an explanation] before them: if you buy a Hebrew slave, he shall serve for six years but on the seventh year he shall go out as a free man without [him, the former slave, making any] payment" (Exodus 21:1-2).
Last week we read about mishpatim (judgments, laws) that were given to Moses on Mount Sinai. [Moses returned to Mount Sinai at the end of Parsha Yitro.] The civil laws he received began with ordinances concerning servitude. YHVH made compassionate allowances regarding the treatment of servants, and even slaves. The prophet Jeremiah warned Israel that the failure to follow the mishpatim concerning setting Hebrew servants free after six years would result in national exile. See: Jeremiah 43:11-22.
This week: Parsha T'ruma [“offering”] is this week's reading. Starting it, we find that Moses is still on the Mount. "And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them" (Sh'mot 25:8). The Israelites were called upon to bring offerings from which a Tabernacle and its furnishings would be constructed. Fifteen materials were needed for the project and the people willingly brought them. They included precious metals, wood, wool, goat hair, animal skins, olive oil, spices and more. Moses, while on the Mount, was given the complete building instructions and dimensions for YHVH's portable dwelling place on earth. He was told that there would be two chambers in the Tabernacle separated by a woven curtain. The smaller would contain the Ark and Mercy Seat; the larger would contain the Lampstand, Table of Showbread, and the Altar of Incense. Its three walls would be made of 48 wooden planks overlaid with gold and held up by sliver footings. The roof would consist of three layers of coverings: (1) wool and linen, (2) woven goat hair, (3) ram and leather skins. The covering for the front of the Tabernacle would be an embroidered curtain, like a veil, which was held up by five poles. Outside the front entrance, in the courtyard, would be placed a washbasin of brass and the copper-plated Altar. The whole affair would be surrounded/enclosed by four linen curtains of prescribed dimensions, held up by silver hooks on 60 posts which would be strengthened with copper stakes. The details in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings were to be carefully followed. The blueprints of the three part Tabernacle system--the Court, Holy Place, and Most Holy Place--were very detailed. We are reminded of the three intricate components of man: body, soul, and spirit. "I will praise thee, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well" (Psalm 139:14). When we consider the design, function, and complexity of the believer's body, His new temple which He indwells, we are filled with awe and reverence for the Maker.
Torah
Torah Note # 19: The Torah is approached/studied/analyzed through a method called midrash, which means "to investigate" or "to study." It is pronounced mid'rahsh. There are two basic types of midrashic endeavors. One is called Midrash Halachah. In this method, the Torah is examined with the purpose of deriving/discovering divine laws from the 613 laws already set forth in the Five Books of Moses. The other midrashic approach to Torah is called Midrash Aggadah. This study is done with the purpose of deriving details of biblical stories and insights into their moral lessons. For instance, in the story of the fall, Adam and Eve were evicted from the Garden and Eden, and Cherubim were placed within the Garden to guard the way to the tree of life. The Torah is silent about what went on in the Garden after the Cherubim took their posts. The very presence of these angelic beings in the Garden strongly suggests the Presence of YHVH remained after the first couple departed. Did it become a worship center where Adam and Eve could approach YHVH through the blood of an innocent sacrifice, that of a kosher animal? Midrash Aggadah would attempt to uncover details and innuendos, and fill out the post-Adam Garden story more completely.
1. "And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, Speak to the children of Israel, that they bring Me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take My offering" (Exodus 25:1-2).
Terumah (T'ruma) means "donation" or "offering". Literally, it means "a portion set aside" or "a portion lifted out" of what one owns or possesses. Parsha T'ruma opens with YHVH instructing Moses to take an offering from the people for the purpose of building the Tabernacle, called the Mishkan. The offering would be taken from "every man that giveth it willingly with his heart." When one gives of his/her resources he implies that there is more to life than just his own pleasure and existence. "They shall make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst." YHVH would have a permanent home, or house, on earth in the Tabernacle, and by it the people of Israel would have inculcated into their corporate and individual psyches the consciousness of actually being Elohim's people and possession. The portable structure of worship would also give faith in the Almighty a material dimension--"..the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet [at one time] seen" (Heb. 11:1). Further, the Tabernacle economy was a profound, multi-faceted object lesson for Israel. It provided a teaching pattern/matrix imbedded with divine truth, and a worship framework designed to systematically impress redemption realities into the hearts, minds, and affections of people.
Elohim gives Moses detailed instructions concerning the Tabernacle's dimensions, materials, furniture, and functions. To underwrite the project, He orders Moses to take an offering, a T'ruma. Fifteen different substances, including gold, silver, brass, wood, wool, linen, animal skins, oil, spices, and more, went into constructing the Mishkan in which YHVH would commune with man. At least 13 chapters in the Book of Exodus are devoted to the details of the Tabernacle's construction. In contrast, the Torah provides one chapter to account for the creation of the universe, and only three chapters to the revelation at Mount Sinai. Further, in Scripture many important, complex laws are set forth in a single verse. But the Talmud describes 39 forms of creative work that went into the construction of the Tabernacle, the Mishkan. Thus, within the design and construction requirements for building the holy edifice and its constituent parts we find abundant redemption lessons and instructions placed before us for making our lives and our world a home, an abiding place, for YHVH.
Generous offerings abundantly provided for the Tabernacle's construction, with all its furnishings and needed accessories and supplies. Thus, by a willing disposition to give and the work of peoples' hands, and in compliance to the standards and commands of YHVH, heaven came to earth. Astonishing. The Tabernacle's Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant with the Mercy Seat was placed, became the actual residing place, the only resting place, of YHVH's manifested presence on the entire planet!
After Solomon's Temple was built in Jerusalem, the more glorious permanent house for YHVH, the Tabernacle was carefully and reverently stored away in the subterranean chambers/rooms of the Temple Mount. We are told it remains hidden there to this day. Likutei Sichot, vol. 21, p. 146 informs us that it was not left dismantled.
Believer, here is the most amazing fact. All this was done so that one day you and I--disciples of Yeshua to Whom the Tabernacle pointed--would become His Tabernacle, His Temple, His Dwelling place on earth! As it is written, "...for you are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them, and I will be their God, and they will be My people" (2 Cor. 6:16). The work of the Holy Spirit in regenerating and indwelling the heart [spirit, inner man] of every Believer is a distinguishing result of the New Covenant, and stands out in the thinking of Paul (1Cor. 3:16; 6:19; Eph. 2:21-22; 1 Tim. 3:15; 1 Pet. 2:5). We are Elohim's living stones, into whom He has poured His love by the Spirit (Rom. 5:5) and who are being built up into a holy spiritual temple. We therefore have blessed intimacy of fellowship with the Holy One of Israel. Accordingly, just as He did long ago with the Tabernacle complex, He will meet all your inner and outer needs as well. "But my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:19).Remember, as you (His holy Tabernacle) give and serve Him, He will cause people to "pour into your lap a good measure--pressed down, shaken together, and running over" (Luke 6:38).
2. "This is the contribution which you are to raise from them..." (Sh'mot 25:3).
The materials required for the Tabernacle YHVH called on the congregation to provide. The valuable materials were yielded up in respect to what would become of them, something infinitely more valuable than material holdings. The people were tested, but willingly gave up a diversity of precious materials--the gold, silver, bronze, linen, skins, wood, oil, gems, onyx stones, spices and such--that they had already in their possession, much of it garnered from the Egyptians. Remembering the goodness of YHVH, the people showed their thankfulness and brought more than enough supplies for the holy cause (Sh'mot 34:6-7; 35:21). "Let them construct a sanctuary for Me, that I may dwell among them" (v.8). This was Israel's high calling, to make for Elohim an appropriate dwelling place on earth. It still is. Believers comprise His spiritual temple in which He has come to dwell. And we have the privilege and responsibility to prepare our hearts to welcome His dynamic presence and glory, that is already in us, to be manifest and tangible among and upon us, wherever we are--in our prayer closets, homes, groups, and meetings. Giving of resources is an important aspect of conditioning the heart for spiritual renewal. A person who is resistant to giving into the work of YHVH will also be resistant, disinterested to the restoration of the fullness of the Spirit to the Ecclesia. We must allow cheerful giving, which tends to open one’s soul more completely to the work of divine revelation, to replace compulsion. The flesh must be resisted. The Scriptures teach us that He deserves our best, the most choice of what we have, given over to His purposes.
3. "They shall construct an ark of acacia wood two and a half cubits long and one and a half cubits wide, and one and a half cubits high. You shall overlay it with pure gold, inside and out you shall overlay it..." (Sh'mot 25:10-11).
The patterns of the furnishings/contents of the Tabernacle were revealed to Moses before the pattern of the actual Tabernacle itself. These included the Ark, Mercy Seat, Table of Shewbread, and the seven branched Lampstand, the Menorah. The Ark of the Testimony was described first as it was the most essential part of the project, and would be the coffer for the two tablets of the Law, which instruction is called "holy, just , and good" (Rom.7:12).
4. "You shall make a mercy seat out of pure gold...make two cherubim of gold, make them of hammered work at the two ends of the mercy seat" (Sh'mot 25:17-18).
The Mercy Seat was made of gold because it represented a most precious attribute, YHVH's pure mercy. "O, Give thanks unto YHVH; for He is good: because His mercy endureth forever" (Ps. 118:1). It was made as one piece with the cherubim, who represent guardianship of YHVH's holiness, and worship. [One cherubim is said to correspond with Elohim's quality of mercy, and the other with that of His justice. [The Torah, W.G.Plaut, p. 614] They "keep the way of the tree of life" (Gen. 3:24). The pure gold structure was placed over the Law to reveal that mercy triumphs over judgment. This is where YHVH met with Moses (Sh'mot 25:22): "...he heard the voice of One speaking unto him from off the Mercy Seat that was upon the Ark of Testimony, from between the two cherubim..." (Nu. 7:89). The Mercy Seat also speaks of Messiah Yeshua, Who gives peace and rest to sin-burdened, weary souls. "Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Mt. 11:28).
"You shall put the mercy seat on top of the ark, and in the ark you shall put the testimony which I will give you. There I will meet with you; from above the mercy seat...between the two cherubim...I will speak to you" (Sh'mot 25:21-22).
The Mercy Seat was laid upon the sacred chest and thus covered the stone tablets, the commandments. The blood of the atoning sacrifice, which made expiation for the sins of Israel, was sprinkled once a year on the Mercy Seat in the Most Holy Place by the High Priest on the Day of Atonement. It cancelled the condemning witness of the law over which the Mercy Seat rested, and covered Israel's sin from the sight of YHVH.
The Ark and the Mercy Seat comprised the Throne of YHVH, and (it could be said) were the heart of the Tabernacle. The dimensions of the mercy seat (length and width) were exactly the same as those of the Ark of the Covenant. Hence, the fit was perfect. There was no over-lapping of the lid over the sides of the Ark, the receptacle which contained in inflexible stone tablets. What does this suggest concerning the mercy of the Almighty covering those who do not abide in the Ark, a type of Yeshua, but live outside it?
5."You shall make a table of acacia wood, two cubits long and one cubit wide and one and a half cubits high. You shall overlay it with pure gold and make a gold border around it" (Sh'mot 25:23-24).
In the Holy Place, on the north side--the entrance of the Holy Place faced east--there would be set a wooden table over-laid with gold, and bearing bread (twelve loaves), frankincense, and wine. These elements constituted Israel's continual thank-offering before the eternal Elohim. The regular, scheduled presenting of the bread and renewal of the elements was a perpetual duty of all Israel. "You shall set the bread of the Presence on the table before Me at all times" (Sh'mot 25:30). Every tribe participated. No one was exempt. Israel's gratitude was shown to YHVH by (a) obedience and (b) offerings. This provides a lesson for returning Israelites. We must praise Him daily and regularly present our best gifts. It is our way of life.
6. "Then you shall make a lampstand of pure gold...their bulbs and their branches shall be of one piece with it; all of it shall be one piece of hammered work of pure gold" (Exo. 25:31,36).
The Menorah was located opposite the Table of Shewbread, along the south wall of the Holy Place. It was constructed, actually hammered out, from a single gold ingot [mass of metal]. It consisted of a variety of shapes and forms. The lamps, or bowls, which were engraved to resemble almonds, were at the top of each branch and contained the oil and wicks which produced the flames. The Menorah gave light for the Holy Place in which it was set. Making the Menorah was a very difficult undertaking, and Midrash Tanchuma teaches that the term "shall be made" (in contrast to "you shall make") suggests that YHVH's divine assistance was employed in the task.
The Menorah, which had seven branches and lamps, produced light for the Holy Place in which were also placed the Table of Showbread and the Altar of Incense. The light from the Menorah which illuminated the dark Tabernacle represents the Holy Spirit Who illuminates the dark world, and even the human heart. The light was seven-fold and compares to the representation of the Spirit found in Revelation 4:5, where the Apostle John, describing His vision, refers to "seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven spirits of God." The "seven spirits" represent the fullness of perfection and completeness of the one, indivisible Holy Spirit. His seven-fold light is therefore full and complete, more than enough for every need of man. The tongs and snuff dishes (verse 38) used for trimming and filtering the oil and wicks of the bowls show us that the cooperation of man was needed to daily dress the lamps, and thus keep the light strong in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle. So it is in these latter days. Our cooperation with the Spirit, Who is the Oil and Light within, is required so the spiritual light, the divine light of the Spirit vouchsafed [given; granted in a gracious manner] to believers, is not dimmed, but is refreshed daily, remaining bright.
To that end, our day-by-day work as a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9) includes trimming/filtering sin out of our lives, renewing the oil supply (Spirit), and refreshing the holy fire (inspiration and understanding) through prayer, repentance, praise and worship before the Holy One of Israel. "Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding of what the will of God is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit" (Eph. 5:17-18). In these last days many people have turned to substance abuse to escape reality, or to experience the spirit realm of the second heaven. Intemperance is a demonic stronghold that will seize people, cause them to dishonor YHVH, lose their mental and physical health, injure their souls, squander their resources, waste time, perform poorly, commit offenses, and become unfit for His service. The antidote for the allure of substitutes is to "be filled with the Holy Spirit [trimmed wick, oil, light, fire]."
7. "Moreover you shall make the tabernacle with ten curtains of fine twisted linen and blue and purple and scarlet material...make them with cherubim..." (Sh'mot 26:1).
The Altar of Incense had not been described when the instructions for the Tabernacle itself were given to Moses. The Tabernacle consisted of: A. The rectangular enclosure thirty cubits by ten cubits. Open at one end, three sides were to be constructed by boards over-laid with gold. It would called the mishkan, or "dwelling place." B. Over it would be a tent [ohel] of goat hair, supported by poles and kept in place by ropes and pegs. C. A covering [mikseh] of badger skins died red, and seal/porpoise skins was placed over the ohel. There were sockets and bars for the boards. Also, there was a magnificent veil supported by four poles that separated the Holy Place--which took up two-thirds of the tabernacle--from the Most Holy Place. A curtain, called the "hanging," covered the open end of the Tabernacle.
The linen used for the curtain was made of the fiber of flax plants, and thus came from the soil. Nevertheless, the linen curtain was of a very fine quality, and very white, even bright. The curtains denoted the righteousness of Messiah Yeshua, the pure and eternal Son Incarnate. By His holy life and His unfaltering obedience during His ministry on earth, He wrought righteousness for us who trust in Him. This directs our thoughts to the coming day when the Bride of Messiah will stand before Yeshua and be arrayed in a brilliant white wedding dress; "...for the fine linen is the righteousness of the saints" (Rev. 19:8).
8. "Then you shall make curtains of goats' hair for a tent over the tabernacle; you shall make eleven curtains in all" (Sh'mot 26:7).
The goat hair served well as external coverings, and have been used by Arabs/Bedouins for centuries. Eleven were used for the entire covering of the Tabernacle. They served as good protection for the roof of the tent against inclement weather, and composed a comprehensive, unifying strength of the structure. Goat hair curtains, or coverings, typify the sin and failure of man (Gen. 27:11-16; 1 Sam. 19:12-17; Mt. 25:31-46). Moses was told to double the sixth goat-hair curtain, the one that would be used to cover the front of the Tabernacle. It would serve as a stark reminder, easily seen from the Brazen Altar, that only shed blood from an innocent sacrifice can make atonement for sin. Goat's Hair for the curtain typifies Messiah too. We are given eleven instances when goats were used for sin offerings: Lev. 4:22-26, 27-28; 9:3; Num. 15:22-24; 28:11,17,22,29; 29: 5,11, 16-38). All these point to Yeshua, Who knew no sin, as man's ultimate and only efficacious Sin Offering. Further, the scapegoat was used on Yom Kippur to make atonement for Israel by bearing "their iniquities unto a land not inhabited" (Lev. 16:10, 20-22). Rejoice! Messiah has removed our iniquities from us, "as far as the east is from the west."
Rams skins dyed red speak of consecration and blood (Ex. 29:15-18, 19-22). They point to Yeshua, as our consecrated High Priest, Who "...by His own blood He entered in once into the Most Holy Place, having obtained eternal redemption for us" (Heb. 9:12). He suffered for us. Isaiah wrote: "...the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and with His stripes [blows that cut in] we are healed" (Isa. 53:5).
9. "Then you shall make the boards for the tabernacle of acacia wood, standing upright...make bars of acacia wood...overlay the boards with gold..." (Sh'mot 26:15,26,29).
Planks of acacia wood, fifteen feet long and over two feet wide, were made for the walls of the Tabernacle and over laid with pure gold. They were constructed to "stand up" but not have one end sunk into the ground. The planks were held vertically by five [number of grace] horizontal wood bars (that went all the way around), also overlaid with gold, and fitted with tenons ("hands"). The tenons were rods which protruded from the ends of the boards and fit into silver sockets, which were footings on the ground. Upright wooden boards overlaid with gold speak of the believer's union with Messiah, by YHVH's grace, as our Source of strength and the Way to eternal and abundant life.
10. "You shall make a veil of blue and purple and scarlet material and fine twisted linen; it shall be made with cherubim, the work of a skillful workman" (Sh'mot 26:31)
The Veil was made of the same material as the inner roof covering of the mishkan, and images of the cherubim were woven into it by anointed workmen. We believe the veil's four prominent colors point to Yeshua. He is the: (A) Redeemer, Whose origin is heaven [blue]; (B) Royal King of kings and Lord of lords [purple]; (C) Suffering Servant [scarlet], "with whose stripes we are healed" (Isa. 53:5); (D) Righteous One. The epistle to the Hebrews speaks of the veil as representing Messiah's flesh. "Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Yeshua, by a new and living way, which He has consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh" (Heb. 10:20). The Veil was supported by four [number of earth] pillars and hung by gold hooks. This speaks of Israel's divine support and connection with heaven. The pillars were positioned on silver sockets, symbolic of redemption.
The entrance of the Tabernacle, its front Door, was a curtain, a needlework hanging composed of blue, purple, scarlet and fine twisted linen. It was similar to the Veil in color but did not have cherubim woven into it. The Door hanging was supported by five wooden pillars overlaid with gold which stood on brass sockets. The entrances to the Court, the Tabernacle, and the Holy of Holies all represent Messiah Yeshua, Who said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no man cometh unto the Father but by Me" (John 14:6).
11. "And you shall make the altar of acacia wood, five cubits long and five cubits wide; the altar shall be square, and its height shall be three cubits" (Sh'mot 27:1).
"The Altar" would be placed where He would "record His Name" (Sh'mot 20:24). This was the essential element in the worship system, the place where all sacrifices would be offered. The Brazen Altar represents the cross of Calvary where Yeshua suffered and died for fallen man. It was constructed of wood overlaid with brass, the symbol of judgment. Also, it had four horns, or protruding corners, upon which sacrificial blood was smeared. They are said to symbolize protection, power, glory, and salvation. The grate, or heavy grill that went in the midst of the Altar, was solid brass and bore the heat of the fire that burned the sacrifices that were laid upon it. The Altar was of the utmost importance and significance. Seven days went into its sanctification. "Seven days thou shall make an atonement for the altar, and sanctify it: and it shall be most holy" (Sh'mot 29:37). Each of the countless victims that went to the Brazen Altar through the centuries represented Messiah.
In a nutshell, the Brazen Altar represents: A. Atonement: Lev. 17:11;14; Heb. 9:22. B. Redemption: Gal. 3:13; Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:14; Titus 2:14. C. Justification: Rom. 3:24-26; 5:1-2. D. Initial Sanctification: Heb. 10:10,14; 1 Cor.1:30. The Laver, placed behind the Altar, was used for washing. It represents: A. Regeneration; John 3:5; 1 Cor. 4:15; Titus 3:5; Jas. 1:18; 1 Pet. 1:23. B. Spiritual illumination: Ps. 119:105, 130; John 1:1,9. C. Self-examination: 1 Cor. 11:28; Jas. 1:22-25. D. Progressive sanctification: 2 Cor. 3:18; Eph. 5:25-27. [2]
12. "You shall make the court of the tabernacle...there shall be hangings for the court of fine twisted linen..." (Sh'mot 27:9).
The court was a rectangle, three hundred feet long and seventy-five feet wide, and was enclosed by a linen hanging, or curtain, which was hung on sixty pillars, made of wood overlaid with brass and crowned with silver (atonement). [Note: The hanging for the front of the Court was thirty feet wide and had its own design that was distinguished from the rest of the court hanging, which was white. It was called macak (four colored, embroidered). The plain white hanging was called qela.] The pillars were placed seven and a half feet apart, were seven and a half feet tall, connected by rods, and placed into sockets. There was no gold in the outer court.
"You shall charge the sons of Israel, that they bring you clear oil of beaten olives for the light, to make the lamp burn continually" (Sh'mot 27:20).
There are many vessels and utensils, some common and unspectacular, that were used in the Tabernacle, such as pins, pegs, hooks, pans, and such. Some items were gold, some silver, and others brass. But everything was important, however common, or magnificent and beautiful. Every component, large or small, had its necessary place and function. If one item went missing, just one, the whole would be compromised. "...one jot...shall in no wise pass from the law..."
The oil for the Lamp becomes the next focus of the parsha's attention. It is mentioned here, before instructions regarding the Altar of Incense or the Wash Basin are given. The people were required to regularly bring high quality, pure olive oil for the maintenance of the Menorah's lamps. The oil was not to be "mixed" with anything, not even the watery juice (amurca) of the olive. Impure oil was not fit for burning. Oil, which is a type of the Holy Spirit, was to be in plentiful supply so the priests could keep the lamps trimmed and burning at all times. Hence, we observe that Abba cared for all things, small and great, regarding His Sanctuary. Yet He is especially concerned for His New Covenant temples, the believers in Messiah. He wants us nourished with the Bread of His Table, refilled with His Holy Oil each day, and giving forth steady light. "But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps" (Mt. 25-4).
Note: The construction of the Tabernacle and its components, the preparing of the priesthood and its sacrificial service, and the teaching of the people were in preparation for Israel receiving, approaching, and enjoying the presence and holiness of the living Elohim. The preparation was a step-by-step process. Our pathway to growth in experiential holiness [sanctification] and increasing intimacy Yeshua is also a step by step process: "For He says, order on order...line on line, a little here, a little there" (Isa. 28:10). Growth takes place over time. "...the beatific vision [to see Elohim] is for those only whose spiritual eyesight has been prepared [step by step] for its reception. We cannot come to the throne of God, save through the outer court and through the sanctuary--[the steps are]: A. Sacrifice and redemption [Brazen Altar; Salvation by faith/Reformation]. B. Cleansing [Basin; Holiness/Evangelical]. C. Illumination [Lampstand, Pentacost/Azusa]. D. Communion/fellowship [Table and Bread; Outpourings/Presence/Abba's Love/Hebrew Roots]. E. Intimacy and vision [Altar of Incense; Prophetic Intercession/Third Day Vision (Hosea 6:1-2). Then, for those who can receive it: The open vision and the divine presence [manifest glory and holiness] of God [the Elohim of Israel]." [3]
Haftorah
1. "If you will walk in My statutes and execute My ordinances and keep all My commandments by walking in them, then I will carry out My word with you which I spoke to David your father..." (1 Kings 6:12).
The haftorah portion includes the construction of Solomon's Temple, a reflection of the account of the construction and assembly of the Tabernacle. Also mentioned are the use of manpower, the cutting and transporting of stone, the foundation, components, and dimensions of the Temple, and its building materials. The haftorah ends with King Solomon receiving a promise from YHVH, possibly through the prophet Nathan. The prophetic word contains a "feel" of "condition," or warning. YHVH had given assurance to the Hebrews that He would occupy the Tabernacle (Ex. 25:8; 29:45; Lev. 26:11). In verse 13 of the passage God pledges His presence to the new Temple also: "...I will dwell among the children of Israel..." Only in this way would domestic and civil Iife in Israel be holy…and abundant.
Yeshua: The Living Torah "I did not come to abolish but fulfill" (Mt. 5:17).
1. "Yeshua said to him, I and the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me" (John 14:6).
Yeshua HaMashiach is foreshadowed by the Tabernacle; its structure, design, function, components, furniture, and purpose--all its components, speak of Him and His ministry. For instance, to enter the Holy of Holies (Place of the Presence), one had to go through the gate (outer court entrance), the door (to the Tabernacle), and then the veil (behind the Altar of Incense). These are types of Messiah. Even the materials and colors used in the Tabernacle's construction symbolize Him. Here are some examples: A. Gold--Deity and glory of Yeshua. B. Silver--Atonement (Ex. 30:13-16). C. Brass--Judgment (Lev.26:19; Nu. 21:8-9; Deut. 28:23). D. Scarlet--The Suffering Servant. E. Purple--Points to the Royal One. F. Ram's skin died red--Consecration unto death. G. Acacia wood [sometimes referred to as "iron wood"]--Incorruptible Humanity of Messiah. "...neither will thou suffer [allow] thine Holy One to see corruption" (Ps. 16:10). H. The Veil--"That is to say, His flesh" (Heb. 10:20). [4]
Every piece of "furniture" in the Tabernacle pointed to Yeshua. The wood and gold of the Ark speak of the Person of Messiah, His humanity and deity. The Mercy Seat speaks of His mission/purpose. The Table of Shewbread, constructed with wood and overlaid with pure gold, also represents Messiah's humanity and deity, and of Him becoming Bread from heaven to provide eternal life for man. The Lampstand was formed without specified dimensions and points to the perfect, full deity of Yeshua that is not limited by borders or restricted by dimensions. The oil in the bowls of the Lampstand symbolize the Holy Spirit Who the Messiah would send, the promise of the Father (John 14:16-17). In the Tabernacle system YHVH has appointed every object lesson possible to reveal the Person His Son and the truth of His redemption/salvation to Israel and all men. The Tabernacle complex declares: "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).
The Holy Spirit "...but you shall receive power..." (Acts 1:8).
The gifts of the Holy Spirit may be counterfeited, imitated by demons (Satan) and false believers who masquerade as sincere Believers. “Many false prophets shall rise and shall deceive many” (Mt. 24:11). We must not automatically believe that every sign, wonder, or prophecy is from heaven, but should “test the spirits” to discern whether or not they are from YHVH. But we should not be fearful or overly scdeptical either, and worry about sincere Believers who make honest errors when attempting to be used in the gifts of the Spirit. We are to be motivated by faith, never fear. Still, it is wise to discern the character, motives, and financial integrity of all leaders. We have been given the responsibility to evaluate the fruit of their lives and ministries, and judge their faithfulness to proclaim and obey Scripture.
1. "And thou shalt make the seven lamps thereof: and they shall light the lamps thereof, that they may give light over against it" (Exo. 25:37).
Sages comment that the Kohen, when kindling the lamps, would place the six wicks in the respective arms of the Lampstand/Menorah so they pointed toward the central stem, that all the individual flames would be directed to the supporting center branch. We are told that the three flames on the right symbolize intellectual ideas, and that the flames on the left represented thought [practical wisdom] as applied to one's livelihood. All mental activity, this suggests, should be directed to and guided by the Torah light, symbolized by the flame of the central branch.
The Holy Spirit, Who is represented by the pure olive oil used in the bowls of the Lampstand, is the One who illuminates Scripture and enlightens our understanding. Carefully read the following passage. "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from Elohim , so that we may know the things freely given to us by Elohim, which things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words. But the natural man [unsaved, un-regenerated] does not accept [does not understand] the things of the Spirit of Elohim, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised [discerned]. But he who is spiritual appraises all things, yet he himself is appraised by no one. For who has known the mind of YHVH that he will instruct Him? But we have the mind of Messiah" (1 Cor. 2:12-16).
Revelation comes by way of the Holy Spirit. He is the Illuminator, the Revealer. The things that YHVH has prepared for them who love Him cannot be discerned or understood by human wisdom, or be apprehended by natural logic or reason. They belong to Elohim and are made known to us by the Holy Spirit Who regenerates and indwells Believers. He is able to reveal the "deep things" of YHVH because He thoroughly knows them. He is "the Anointing from the Holy One." His work is (a) to teach us to know the things of Elohim, which are gifts of grace provided at an infinite cost but to us given "without money and without price." We know His gifts and blessings in so far as we receive them. Spiritual knowledge comes by faith and experience. The Spirit's work is also (b) to teach us to speak the things of Elohim, whether they be of Scriptural knowledge or divinely inspired utterance. Paul understood that the Holy Spirit's inspiration extended from writing to speaking.
The revelatory operation of the Spirit within the saints is becoming more pronounced in this hour of restoration. Divinely anointed supernatural insight and foresight will be needed in the Body of Messiah as the latter days unfold and present new challenges (Gen. 40, 41). But the natural man is fallen, and exists in a spiritually "dumbed-down" condition. This is the depraved spiritual state which sin has visited upon mankind. Hence, in the unbeliever the ability to perceive and understand divine things with discernment is dormant. His perception is earth-oriented and carnal, not heavenly. His desires, thoughts, and perceptions are dominated by his lower nature. Concerning the spiritually lifeless [breathless], Yeshua Himself, while teaching His disciples, said: ‘Follow Me, and let the dead bury their dead’ (Mt. 8:22). On the other hand, the spiritual man is born of the Spirit through faith in Yeshua, and he has had created/awakened within him the faculty [a new sprit] by which he can discern and mature in the spiritual things of YHVH. The recreated, quickened human spirit, which is indwelt and sustained by the Holy Spirit, is intended to be the ruling part of man's being/nature. The natural man operates, and can even excel, in four realms: the physical, relational, social, and intellectual arenas. But only the spiritual man--he who has been regenerated by the power of the Spirit through faith in Yeshua HaMashiach--enters a fifth realm or sphere, the region misunderstood and misapprehended by the natural man. It is the spiritual sphere of the unseen, of the eternal, of the Spirit; it is the region of YHVH, the Word of Elohim, and the riches in glory of Yeshua. It is the realm of YHVH’s servants. Thus, the spiritually recreated Believers are the people who can best discern and understand the times.
Therefore, let us, like the flames in the six lamps of the Tabernacle Menorah that leaned toward the central stem, lean toward the Spirit and come to know us Him well. He will provide for us daily renewal, refilling, and illumination to perceive the mind of Elohim.
2. "Then the YHVH spoke to Moses saying...they shall construct an ark of acacia wood two and a half cubits long, and one and a half cubits wide, and one and a half cubits high. You shall overlay it with pure gold" (Exodus 25:1, 10-11).
Moses heard Elohim's clear directions dealing first with what the Tabernacle would contain: the Ark, Table and Showbread, Lampstand/Menorah, and later the Altar of Incense. The Ark of the Covenant, which was described first, was the central, most essential aspect of the Tabernacle economy.
The Ark was made of acacia wood covered within and without with pure gold, and contained the Tablets of the Testimony. [Note: The Talmud says this indicates that a Torah teacher must be consistent. {We realize, of course, this also pertains to every teacher and every Believer.} His inner character must match is outer demeanor.] The Ark consisted of three symbolic parts: (1) the chest, wherein would rest the Law, the Ten Commandments, (2) the Mercy Seat, representing the grace and mercy of YHVH, and (3) the Cherubim, representing guardianship and worship. "You have ordained [commanded] your precepts, that we should keep [guard] them diligently" (Psalm 119:4).
The symbolism/message of the parts of the Ark collectively is revealed by Psalm 85 which was written by King David when he heard the voice of YHVH. "I will hear what God has to say; for He will speak peace to His people, His godly ones...loving-kindness and truth have met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other."
Hearing Him, and having the interest and faith to receive His prophetic utterance, vision, or dream with understanding, is our need and challenge today as returning Israelites. Isn't it time to arise to a noticeably higher level of (a) ministry in the Spirit and (b) understanding His Torah truth? Prophecy would suggest that now is indeed the time to press forward into the kingdom, power, and glory of the Elohim of Israel. "...in the latter days you will return to the Lord your God and listen to His voice" (Deut. 4:30). As believers, our interest and aspiration must be to hear and obey the voice, the communication, the leading of Yeshua through the Spirit, as well as by His Word. This will occur increasingly as we Israelites return to His pathways and reach out to one another in love and unity. Then, the glory of YHVH, which manifested between the solid gold cherubim on the Mercy Seat (whose wings were stretched out to touch one another) will come forth and rise up among us as well. Within the pure, holy environment of His manifest glory, the end-time revelations of YHVH will come forth that will dispel religious differences between believers and facilitate the reunification of the House of Judah and the House of Israel. (Zech. 13:2,9; 1 Cor. 8:2; 13:9-12; 2 Cor. 12:4,7; Jer. 31:34; 32:32-39; Joel 2:28-29; Isa. 11:12-13; 54:13).
Though the Almighty's Spirit and commandments are divinely implanted in the heart (regenerated spirit) of "born again" converts to Messiah Yeshua, there are other voices, both inner and outer, that contend for our attention. Our physical bodies have a voice that is seldom silent. The voice of the body is the input of our physical senses. Hunger, thirst, lust, sleep, desire for music and food, et al, are expressed in physical feelings. But those who live for pleasure (whatever feels good, do it) are "like unreasoning animals, [who] by these things are destroyed" (Jude verse 20). Although the Holy Spirit may use feelings, and can indeed cause physical sensations--many feel His weight, see visions, hear His voice, and such, when they are in His manifested, tangible presence--we are not to be led or dominated by them.
While we do not want to be controlled by the voices of our bodies, our physical feelings, we should not be led solely by the voice of our souls, our minds, either. The voice of the soul embodies reason, intellect, logic, and carnal emotions. The Holy Spirit will quicken, empower the mind, will, and emotions, but the voices of the soul are not our primary guide. Yes, YHVH has given us ability to reason, and this gift distinguishes us from brute animals which basically function by instinctual programming. Acting from reason and logic is very wise, yet reason and logic alone can also misinform and mislead believers. Sometimes Abba may lead you to do something that seems unreasonable, illogical, like: build an enormous boat (Noah), or sacrifice your only son (Abraham), or hold your walking staff above a sea (Moses), or walk through an over-flowing river, and march around an unassailable fortress seven times and shout (Joshua), or wait around [and not "working out"] until you receive power (upper room), or remain upon a reeling boat until a storm breaks it into pieces on a rocky shore (Paul). In these cases, logic/reason would have protested vigorously, shouting "NO!" to the divinely prescribed courses of action. Reason, if listened to in these cases, would have over-ruled YHVH's leading, and then His purposes would have been thwarted.
Further, the Spirit will direct us to show love and kindness to particular people who may be very unattractive, even hostile. This leading would run contrary to (disagree with) our carnal sentiments and emotions, the voices of the soul. Again, we must not allow our reason, intellect, or emotions to dominate us, or turn us aside from what our Spirit-indwelt, recreated (regenerated) human spirit speaks. In other words, we are to be led by the Spirit speaking to us, communicating with us, through our spirits. We are Spirit-to-spirit people. Feelings and reason have their place, but they are not enough. Physical senses, logic, and intellect cannot discern the mind of the Spirit of Elohim. We must know His voice and be able to discern it from the other voices that are always present. Meditation upon the Word of Elohim is effectual in developing a Spirit-led conscience and intuition within born-again Believers.
When the Holy Spirit speaks and directs us, it becomes our responsibility to discern, understand, and respond in an appropriate manner. The more restored and sanctified the soul, the greater will be the believer's ease of reception and accuracy of understanding.
For instance, in the operation of the gift of prophecy (1 Corinthians 12) the Spirit speaks to, inspires, and energizes the recipient's human spirit with a divine thought, a word of edification, exhortation, or comfort meant for another person. It is up to the recipient then to perceive, understand, and deliver the prophetic word with as much verbal and tonal accuracy as possible, conveying the mind of Yeshua to the hearer, and thus correctly"...combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words" (1 Cor. 2:13). Sometimes, however, we let our logic, emotions, feelings, and soul issues sift the divine thought and interfere with our understanding of the voice of our spirit (which has received the original stirring of the Spirit). Then the prophetic word/message that is delivered becomes distorted to a greater or lesser degree, and thus a flawed representation of what the Holy Spirit originally intended. That is why we, who are new creations in Messiah returning to our Hebrew roots, must be (a) restored in all His truth, (b) trained in spiritual ministry to detect and reject unholy input, and thereby (c) prepared as able, confident Holy Spirit-to-human spirit ministers and Spirit-empowered ambassadors of Yeshua.
Having said that, we include these points: First, we must not be afraid to step out in faith and operate in the Spirit. According to Joel 2:28, the last days are going to be marked by Spirit-inspired prophesies, dreams, and visions. Supernatural ministry is the Ecclesia's portion. Therefore, secondly, we must practice perfecting Spirit-led ministry and not be afraid of making mistakes. Let us have mercy on one another, and be mutually helpful and encouraging as we grow in His ministry. Finally, when we make mistakes, and should we err [we will, of course], it will certainly not be intentional. It is from these that we learn and grow. We are to go forward, advancing, maturing, and living by faith, not by fear.
"But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil" (Heb. 5:14).
Infants, with tender digestive systems are first exercised on warm milk. As they grow they are able to assimilate more complex foods, distinguishing what is good from that which is not good. So it is in the spiritual sphere of life. At first the new convert's soul is exercised in simple doctrine. Later, it will (and should) acquire by study and practice the faith and understanding to go beyond elementary truths and forward in revealed restoration truth. Everyone should also press on to maturity in the gifts of the Spirit. We are exhorted to develop our spiritual faculties. "...let us press on to maturity" (Heb. 6:1). This week, may every reader pray this word, as did Peter long ago: "...grant that Your bond-servants may speak Your word [prophetic or written] with all confidence, while you extend your hand to heal, and signs and wonders take place through the name of Your holy servant Yeshua" (Acts 4:29-30). Do you recall God’s response?
Glory Note # 19: "YHVH, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thy honor [glory] dwelleth" (Psalm 26:8). The glory of Yah did come and fill His dwelling place, the Tabernacle, and later the Temple. The word for "glory" is kabod, which means" to be heavy." Thus, the term, the glory (kabod) of Elohim, conveys the idea that He is ladened [loaded; ready for shipment] with (a) wealth and provision (Gen. 31:1), (b) great power (Isa. 45:13), and (c) an exalted position commanding unrivaled authority (Gen. 45:13). YHVH's glory is an expression of His majesty and goodness, and it can be magnified to vanquish works of darkness and bring forth and establish His kingdom realities. His glory may or may not become visibly manifested.
"...Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understands and knoweth me, that I am YHVH which exercise loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith YHVH" (Jer. 9:23-24).
Parsha Summary
1. "...of every man that giveth it willing with his heart ye shall take My offering..." (Sh'mot 25:2).
In the Wilderness Moses was given divine instructions to take an offering from the children of Israel. Materials needed to be gathered for the construction of the Tabernacle, its components, furnishings, and service. An opportunity was given to all Israel. Everyone could participate in the process of building for YHVH a dwelling place, His worship center in the earth. They would do this by making donations of the substances and materials needed for the work. YHVH informed Moses He wanted the people to give from the heart, not out of compulsion. Regular voluntary giving of one's resources is a living principle of the Kingdom of Elohim, a dynamic means of developing faith, and a sure avenue of provision.
"Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove Me now herewith, saith YHVH of Hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven and pour you out a blessing...And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes..." (Mal. 3:10-11). Note: Open windows suggest an abundant return from giving tithes and offerings, particularly when the practice is followed consistently! But the metaphor also speaks of an entry of greater, undistorted light, wind, rain, and renewal. Does this not hint of fresh seasons of refreshing from the Spirit coming into the lives of the faithful? Absolutely! The giving, expansive heart is the one that is most open and receptive to the Spirit.
Consistent giving requires the exercise of faith. The tithe is obligatory. It should go to the ministries that are serving people effectually in the proclamation of the Word of YHVH, and in the restoration of kingdom, power, and glory of YHVH to all Israel. The offering is an opportunity to sow seed and help someone. There are blessings associated with both practices. Giving of finances is an important way to participate in spread of the Gospel of the Kingdom in the world.
"Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down..." (Luke 6:38). Early Israel sowed the best offerings...and reaped the glory of Elohim among them. As we have said, a generous, expansive heart is always spiritually sensitive, and the most open to revival. Not all people like to give, especially regularly, in spite of the fact that "...God loveth a cheerful giver" (2 Cor. 9:7). This week, happily give a special offering to the needs of a ministry that serves in the land of Israel.
Hear His Voice
“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth his handiwork. Day unto day uttereth [pours out] speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not head. Their line [string: notes] have gone out through all the earth…their words to the end of the world…” (see Psalm 19:1-4).
The voice of the Almighty is in His works. His works speak of His great creating power, and they reveal Him to all mankind. May we keep in mind that the Almighty speaks to us through His creation, through nature. His communications can come through a variety of channels. He has endowed each Believer with the faculty [innate ability] to understand His forms of expression, at least at an elementary level.
Section 3: Parsha Study and Vision
"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).
The heritage of Israel are the Torah and the Glory of YHVH. The two are foremost revelations of His love, holiness, and perfection. For now we will define the glory of Elohim as the totality of the goodness and righteousness of His character as revealed in the Scriptures, in creation, and supernaturally expressed, even visibly and tangibly, by His weighty manifest Shechinah ("settling") presence that Moses experienced at the bush incident, on Mount Sinai, and when the Tabernacle was first erected (Ex. 3:3; 33:17; 40:34-35). "It came about when Moses was coming down from Mount Sinai (and the two tablets of stone were in Moses' hand as he was coming down from the mountain), that Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because of his speaking with Him" (Ex. 34:29). Both the essence of YHVH's Torah [Ten Commandments/Words written on the tablets] and YHVH's glory that were carried down the mountain by Moses are divinely birthed into the spirits/hearts of believers by the Holy Spirit and regeneration through faith in Messiah Yeshua (Jer. 31:31-34; Ezek. 11:14-21; Joel 2:27-28; John 3:1-16; Acts 1,2,10; 1 Cor. 5:17; Gal. 6:15). Therefore we believe it is YHVH's will for all Israel to experience His manifest goodness and His manifest glory increasingly as our blessed individual and corporate habitation; as our tangible mantle and divine supernatural covering. (1 Pet. 4:14). Our hope is based upon His Word: "I will cause My Shechinah [His glorious, radiant presence; the supernatural brilliance which is the outward expression of His character and goodness; See Matthew 17:1-8] to dwell [to settle] in the midst of [within, upon] thee" (Zech. 2:10).
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.
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).
Exodus 25:1-27:19: Collection order/Offering taken for the Tabernacle/Ark of the Covenant/Table of Showbread/Golden Lampstand/boards and sockets/veils and screens/Brass Altar/Courtyard.
1 Kings 5:12(26)-6:13: Solomon's Temple.
Heb. 8:1-13: A better ministry; a new High Priest.
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.
Start your own Torah and Glory School midrash
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
The prayer and declaration Scriptures are changed with each book of the Torah. For instance, in Exodus we will have new Scriptures on which to focus. And others will appear in Leviticus, and so on. However, the Song of the Lord/Prophetic Worship teaching section is progressive and new each week. So, be sure to use this section. Shalom.
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 place His glory upon 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). Born-again believers' mouths are connected to the spiritual power that created the universe. His Spirit and Word are in our hearts and minds (Jer. 31:31-33; Ezek. 11: 19-20; Joel 2:28-29; John 3:5-8; Acts 2:38; etc.). 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 by blessing one another and declaring with confidence His Word over Jerusalem, Israel, and your nation this week.
"And I will bless them that bless thee" (Gen. 12:3).
1. Pray for Israel.
Numbers 6:23-26. "This is how you shall bless Israel..." Each week. Memorize, and lift up your voice and bless the land.
"The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plan of His heart from generation to generation. Blessed is the nation whose God Is the Lord, the people whom He has chosen for His inheritance" (Ps. 33:11-12). YHVH has chosen Israel to be His peculiar people, to know and love Him. His counsel stands, His purposes are unchangeable. Prayer avails much. It does not change the Almighty's purposes, but it is the appointed means for the fulfillment of His promises. Prophesy life!
2. Pray for Jerusalem.
Psalm 122:1-9. Memorize. We recommend speaking this passage over the Holy City each Sabbath, and bless it.
3. Pray for America/Pray for your nation.
Joel 2:28-29. Spiritual awakening. A great outpouring of the Spirit.
4. Sing the Song of the Lord/Prophetic songs. [Teaching/Exhortation]
"For both He that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren, Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee" (Heb. 2:11-12).
In praise and worship Believers minister unto YHVH, glorifying Him with exaltation and thanksgiving. Let us remember that He wishes to minister to us as well with His prophetic word of edification, exhortation, and comfort. This is the purpose and definition of the "Song of the Lord", and its role will be restored and enlarged in the latter days. "The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing" (Zeph. 3:17).
The Book of Zephaniah, chapter three ( referenced above), teaches: (1) God will punish the heathen and the unrepentant sinners in Judah, (verses 1-5). (2) Strong judgments/measures are necessary to secure salvation for Israel and the nations (verses 6-8). (3) The heathen will be converted to faith in Messiah and participate in the restoration of Israel (verse 9-10). (4) Israel, all tribes and companions, will be comforted and blessed with the presence of YHVH. He will be in the midst of His people in Jerusalem, in Zion, in the whole congregation of Israel.
These encouragements provide us with great reasons to rejoice over Him in prophetic, new songs. He has delivered us from sin and its power, from ignorance and the destruction of error, from temptation and its corruptions, from the fear of death, and from the hold of the grave. When we delight over Him in song, His response through the Spirit is true, tender, full, perfect.
"Desolation is left in the city and the gate is battered to ruins. For thus it will be in the midst of the earth among the peoples, as the shaking of an olive tree, and the gleanings when the grape harvest is over. They raise their voices, they shout for joy; they cry out from the west concerning the majesty of the Lord. Therefore glorify the Lord in the east, the name of the Lord the God of Israel, in the coastland of the sea" (Isaiah 24:12-15).
Isaiah, chapter 24, is envisioning YHVH's judgments upon the world, starting with particular nations such as Egypt, Babylon, Assyria, Philistia, Babylon, Moab, Syria, Ethiopia, and others. He also speaks of a future time of depression and ruin when a righteous remnant will arise and glorify the Almighty, even while in the times of their fiery trials. They will understand that the period of calamity which has come upon the earth is ushering in a time of deliverance and honor for themselves [His people]. As they wait, the Believers will encourage themselves in singing new, joyful songs which express their hope and expectation.
"And Chenaniah, chief of the Levites, was for song: he instructed about song, because he was skillful" (1 Chron. 15:22).
Those who carry a prophetic burden will release the Spirit's unction through the song and sound of the Song of the Lord, and thereby lift the recipients/listeners to higher realms of the Spirit and faith. Singing and the use of musical instruments in religious activities can be traced back to Exodus 15:1-21 and Judges 5:1; 13:8. It was evidently developed (cultivated) in the "schools of the prophets" as recorded in 1 Samuel 10:5. In the day of David, Levite musicians and singers were trained specifically to minister unto YHVH with song and sound in daily and national worship services. We have long known that anointed song and music moves upon the spirit of man. Song and music carry an anointed element, a quality that evokes (summons) appropriate emotions and holy thoughts within the worshiper [pathos], and thus enhances the praise and worship experience, drawing the believer closer to Elohim. With this in mind, sing His praise this week and watch for His response!
Section 5: Conclusion
Conclusion
1. "The length of the court shall be an hundred cubits , and the breadth fifty everywhere, and the height five cubits of fine twined linen, and their sockets of brass" (Ex. 27:18).
At the end of parsha T'ruma the courtyard is described. It was rectangular in shape and contained the Tabernacle, Laver, and Brazen Altar. It was enclosed by curtains that were hung on sixty pillars, which were about seven-and-a-half feet apart. There was one entrance at the midway of the eastern side, which had its own woven curtains and pillars. The court enclosed the holy Tabernacle and, secondly, was the place of sacrifice. Israel, by contributing their resources [t'ruma; offering] and manual labor, cooperated with Elohim and profited beyond what they could ever have imagined when in Egypt. YHVH was making arrangements to actually come and dwell permanently in the midst of them. A lesson from this parashat is seen in Proverbs 11:24. Read it prayerfully. "There is one who scatters, and yet increases all the more, and there is one who withholds what is justly due, and yet it results only in want."
It's simple. When you give, you gain. "He who goes to and fro weeping, carrying His bag of seed, shall indeed come again with a shout of joy, bringing his sheaves with him" (Psalms 126:6). Yeshua put it this way: "He that loveth his life shall lose it, and he who loses [ sows, gives, offers] his life for My sake shall save it unto life eternal" (Mark 12:25).
The miser hoards his money, and, if he doesn't lose it, only keeps it. But that is all. Had Israel decided to keep their resources for future comfort purposes in the Promised Land, they would not have had the Tabernacle and the presence of the Almighty among them. But, they happily gave an offering and He became their portion.
2. "While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease" (Gen. 8:22).
The t'ruma is an important part of our lives. Giving is an essential discipline for advancing followers of Messiah Yeshua, and an immensely attractive character quality that should not be found lacking among any of us, but should be numbered among other traits, such as unselfishness, service, and sacrifice. Such were found with Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joshua, David, Solomon, the Apostles, and Yeshua Himself. Generosity should be evidenced as commonplace in the society of Messiah. Scripture and experience reveal that faithfulness [commitment and regularity] in giving tithes and offerings results in the prosperity of soul, enlargement of love and compassion, strengthening of faith, and a return of abundance. It is a Kingdom law.
"Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove now herewith..." (Mal 3:10).
The tithe belongs to YHVH; the tithes and offering open up the windows of heaven. Let's think about the windows (plural) again. What comes from heaven through YHVH's open windows? First window: Wind (Spirit's power). Second window: Light (Spirit's revelation). Third window: Rain (Spirit's refreshing and inspritation). Fourth window: Sound (Spirit's Voice/Word; intimacy). And, YHVH Tsebaoth (YHVH of Hosts) will go further than enriching your heart and mind alone, but will marshal His limitless resources and usher them forth to bless financially as well! As we've already said, tithing is the primary and most effectual, consistent means of exercising and growing in faith in a Believer. Without tithing, it is unlikely that a Believer will ever reach his or her full potential in Messiah.
"Give and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that you mete withal it shall be measured to you again" (Luke 6:38).
Your t'ruma is your investment. Keep planting. Your harvest depends on your investment. The attitude of the world is quid pro quo [tit for tat]. But in the Kingdom, giving is the sine qua non [the essential condition]. "For YHWH so loved the world that He gave..." (John 3:16).
Have a willing heart, and cooperate with your Redeemer in all things. "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ' (1 Thess. 5:23). He loves you greatly and is doing a good work in your life.
Seek Him continually: "Let me see Your glory." His glory is in you by the Holy Spirit. Pray and believe for His presence to rise up and envelope your soul with His goodness, and the revelation of His heart. You are a child of the Most High and He desires you to experience intimate spiritual communion with Him.
Next week: Parsha Tetzaveh ("You shall command"); Torah portion: Sh'mot 27:20-30:10
Remember! Growth for spiritual strength takes "lifting." Be sure to complete your answers and exercises. They represent the "weights" that the Holy Spirit will use to equip you with a strong, well-proportioned, balanced, spiritual physique of Spirit and Truth.
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. Pulpit Commentary, Erdmanns, Psalms, p. 115. 2. Adapted from: Seeing Christ in the Tabernacle, E. Hershberger, p. 57. 3. Ibid, pgs.12-13. 4. Ibid, p. 100. 5. Partial quote and adaptation from C., Book of Exodus, Pulpit Commentary, Eerdmans.
