DEFINITIONS MATTER
According to the passage in 2 Peter 3:16 men who are "untaught" and "unstable" are responsible for "twisting" the epistles of Paul because he is hard to understand. Furthermore it indicates that these "untaught" and "untrained" do so to their own destruction. Friends if these people happen to be a preacher; pastor; reverend; priest; elder; deacon; bishop; archbishop; chaplain; cardinal; abbot; chancellor; or layperson in your congregation then they are leading you to your destruction as well. This doesn't extend just to those within Christianity either; it extends to those of faiths hostile to the ancient path followed by Abraham; Isaac; and Jacob and others listed in the "Hall of Faith" in Hebrews. The logical question should be how was Paul "trained;" or rather, how are those "trained" who are able to rightly understand Paul? Does the Bible give us any clues about what or how we should be trained? Does the Bible give us any clues about stability? Apparently those who twist Paul and the scriptures are unstable. Shouldn't we seek to discover if the ancient scriptures tell us from where stability comes if possible? This term for "twisting" is Strong's # G4761:
(στρεβλουσιν) "streblousin" which a form of strebloo; meaning to wrench; (specifically)
to torture; pervert; or, twist.
This specific tense appears only one other place in all of the Bible. Turn there with me to
2 Samuel 22:27 if you will.
"With the pure You will show Yourself pure; and with the devious You will show yourself
shrewd."
In this passage the Greek term is used to translate two Hebrew terms which are rendered "devious;" and, "shrewd" respectively in English. In the LXX one of these terms is used as a preposition and the other is used as a verb. Here is the LXX:
καὶ μετὰ ἐκλεκτοῦ ἐκλεκτὸς ἔσῃ καὶ μετὰ
στρεβλοῦ στρεβλωθήσῃ.G4746
στρεβλοῦ στρεβλωθήσῃ.G4746
Here is the Hebrew:
עםH5973 With נברH1305 thou wilt show thyself pure; תתברH1305
ועםH5973 and with עקשׁH6141 the froward
תתפל׃H6617 thou wilt show thyself unsavory.
The two Hebrew terms which come into play are H6141 (עקשׁ) which we see rendered as "froward" the second one H6617 (תתפל) we see rendered as "unsavory." Let's break these down further shall we? The term H6141 is "‛iqqêsh" pronounced "ik-kashe'" From H6140; meaning distorted; hence false: - crooked, froward, perverse. The root H6140 (עקשׁ) "‛âqash" pronounced "aw-kash'" means to knot or distort; to pervert; to make crooked. Friends the opposite of crooked is straight; and the opposite of "to make crooked" is "to make straight." Those who twist Paul and Scripture actually take something that is straight and literally make it crooked. They literally torture the text searching for ways to twist the meaning. Have you ever considered what the Bible says about being "straight" or "pure" rather than crooked or perverse? I suggest you make it a priority. Before we go into those two things we MUST examine the Bible to see what it says should be learned to know what those who are "unlearned" are doing wrong. Turn back with me to 2 Peter 3:15-17 please.
"...Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you, as also in all his epistles,
speaking in them of these things in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught
and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scripture.
You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your
own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked..."
Notice that Paul has been given "wisdom" I strongly suggest you do a topical study on "wisdom" to see what the Bible calls "wisdom" and what the source of "wisdom" actually is. Peter goes to indicate that much of what Paul writes is (δυσνοητα) "dusnoeta" a form of G1425 dusnoētos pronounced "doos-no'-ay-tos" meaning difficult of perception. Webster's Dictionary defines "perceive" as an ability to grasp mentally; to take note; observe; become aware of; to discern. Without the Holy Spirit I tell you the truth; we cannot perceive the truth. For now let's take a closer look at "untaught." This particular term is G261(αμαθεις) a form of amathēs pronounced
"am-ath-ace'."
This term is made up of a Greek word; and, a negative participle which makes the term negative or opposite. The term G3129 (μανθάνω) "manthanō;" which is a prolonged form of the verb (μαθέω) matheō which means "to learn" and, G1 (α) the negative participle making the combination "unlearned." What is so interesting about this combination is that it appears NOWHERE ELSE. On its face it appears impossible to answer because of the lack of references to "unlearned" using this particular term anywhere else. However if we consider that those who twist are (un) learned then we find there are more answers.
The term matheo appears in various forms a total of 36 times in the text of the LXX (Septuagint) Greek Translation of the Old Testament. What most don't stop to consider is that the LXX also uses Koine Greek just as the New Testament does. It uses many of the same words; both verbs and nouns which abide by the same rules of masculine; feminine; or neuter; and declensions determining if the terms are first person; second person; or third person and if they are singular or plural forms. Turn with me to the very first appearance in the LXX of the verb matheo in Exodus 2:4:
καὶ κατεσκόπευεν ἡ ἀδελφὴ αὐτοῦ μακρόθεν
μαθεῖν, τί τὸ ἀποβησόμενον αὐτῷ.
μαθεῖν, τί τὸ ἀποβησόμενον αὐτῷ.
Here it is in the NKJV:
"And his sister stood afar off, to know what would be done to him."
Now look at the Hebrew which it translates:
ותתצבH3320 stood אחתוH269 And his sister מרחקH7350 afar off,
לדעהH3045 to know מהH4100 what יעשׂה׃H6213 would be done
The Hebrew term which is translated by matheo is H3045 (ידע) a form of "yada." It means:
"to know (by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically
and inferentially (including observation, care, recognition; and causatively instruction,
designation, punishment, etc.
The next time we see matheo appear in the LXX is in Deuteronomy 4:10. Here we begin to get us an idea about what is expected of Israel to learn. Turn there with me please.
"...especially concerning the day you stood before the LORD your God in Horeb, when the
LORD said to me, 'Gather the people to Me, and I will let them hear My words, that they may
learn to fear Me all the days they live on the earth, and that they may teach their children.'"
Apparently the LORD יהוה desires that Israel "learn" to fear Him. Notice that the fear is for their entire lives and that His intention is they teach their children. If you can see and hear His intention is that we hear His words. Do you pay close attention to what יהוה has said? Do His instructions get your attention; or, do you treat them as if they aren't for you? Were you told they were nailed to the cross; or, done away with by Jesus? Perhaps you were told those are for the Jews. If you read the account in Exodus you will find there was a mixed multitude that left Egypt. It wasn't just the Jews who the commandments were for; they were also for the foreigner living among them.
In Deuteronomy 4:10 the Greek term matheo is used to translate a different Hebrew term. This term is H3925 (ילמדון):
"they learn" a form of (למד) lamad meaning "to goad;" or "to teach" it also means "expert;"
"instruct;" "learn;" and "teach (-er, -ing)."
Take that and put it in your heart and in your mind; that the Children of Israel are to learn to Fear יהוה; to hear His words; and to teach their children to do the same. The next time we find matheo is in Deuteronomy 14:23 let us go there.
"And you shall eat before the LORD your God, in the place where He chooses to make His
name abide, the tithe of your grain and your new wine and your oil, of the firstborn of your
herds and your flocks, that you may learn to fear the LORD your God always."
Again we find the term matheo being used to translate the Hebrew term Lamad (H3925) and again we find it used in the context of telling Israel they are to learn to fear the LORD your God always. I'm going to assert something to you which may be difficult for you to accept right now. Hopefully over time you will see its truth. Our faith in Messiah grafts us into Israel and because of the adoption as sons we have right to the inheritance just as those who are natural born. Additionally we have responsibilities in our household. We have instructions from our Heavenly Father in which He tells us how to behave; and, what He finds acceptable (Kosher). Don't get caught up in the term "Kosher." There is a real; and, distinct difference between being Biblically Kosher; and, being Kosher according to the Rabbinic standard. I am NOT suggesting the Rabbinic standard; but rather the Biblical standard. This verse is also at the end of a statute defining what is clean vs. unclean as it regards what we should or should not eat. The next place we find matheo in the LXX is in Deuteronomy 17:19:
"And it shall be with him, and he shall read it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear
the LORD his God and be careful to observe all the words of this law and these statutes..."
If you keep reading notice it also indicates why:
"...that his heart may not be lifted above his brethren, that he may not turn aside from the
commandment to the right hand or to the left, and that he may prolong his days in his kingdom,
he and his children in the midst of Israel."
This particular passage is from a section speaking about the King of Israel and that He should have his own copy of Torah; written by himself; by his own hand from the one before the Levites. The purpose was so the King would know how to be a righteous ruler; and so that he could direct himself and those who served him to the statues; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה as given to Israel by His servant Moses. Again we find matheo used to translate the Hebrew term Lamad H3925. Now turn to Deuteronomy 18:9:
"When you come into the land which the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not learn to
follow the abominations of those nations."
Back in 2010 I was having a debate with a "Palestinian Christian" on Campus where I was going to college. He was there supporting the "Israeli Apartheid" week which was put on by the Muslim Student Association. He was asserting rather strenuously that he was descended from the Canaanites who lived in the land prior to Israel; and, that Israel was occupying HIS homeland. Apparently he didn't know what the Bible says about the people who lived in the land which were driven out. In Leviticus 18:1-30 the Bible lists a plethora of sexual practices that are considered to be deviant and unacceptable to יהוה. He does not want those who worship Him to participate in such practices; nor does He want the land defiled by them. In fact we are instructed in Leviticus that the nations which were kicked out of the land were doing some pretty disgusting things. Unbeknownst to him; he was asserting he descended from a people who are described as doing all of the filthy and disgusting things יהוה calls abomination. Follow me to Leviticus 18:24-28:
"Do not defile yourselves with any of these things; for by all these the nations are defiled,
which I am casting out before you...You shall therefore keep My statutes and My judgments,
and shall not commit any of these abominations, either any of your own nation or any stranger
who dwells among you (for all of these abominations the men of the land have done who
were before you, and thus the land was defiled)..."
This "Palestinian Christian" was asserting that he was descended from those who were willing to commit all manner of sexual perversity. I don't know about you but that doesn't sound like a people group I want to be descended from. Furthermore he apparently wasn't aware the Bible indicates these nations were destroyed; how then could he be a descendant? His argument was flawed; and, ignorant.
The eighteenth chapter of Leviticus lists all manner of filth which we now today call homosexuality; lesbianism; incest; bestiality; fornication; adultery; and, even though it doesn't specifically mention pedophilia I'm pretty sure we can lump that and a few other sick and disgusting practices like necrophilia into the "should not do" list. I don't know about you but these are pretty good to steer clear of. Right now all across America states are clamoring to make changes to allow sexual perversions to flourish in classrooms; and courtrooms from teaching filth to children all the way to same sex marriage and all sort of confusion with men who desire to be women; and women who desire to be men. Just earlier this year Bruce Jenner a.k.a. "Caitlyn" was given an award for "bravery" that made me want to vomit; and, a Christian couple was sued for several hundred thousand dollars by a lesbian couple claiming "mental rape" because the Christian bakery refused to bake a cake. The Children of Israel are NOT to have even a hint of sexual immorality; and, that is so we may learn to fear God. The next time we see matheo used is in Deuteronomy 31:12 follow me there:
"Gather the people together, men and women and little ones, and the stranger who is within
your gates, that they may hear and that they may learn to fear the LORD your God and
carefully observe all the words of this law and their children who have not known it, may hear
and learn to fear the LORD your God as long as you live in the land which you cross the
Jordan to posses."
It is clear from this passage that the intention of יהוה was that both the native born and the foreigner who attached himself/herself to Israel were to keep the Torah. Furthermore it was so they would learn to fear the LORD and observe the Law. Turn with me now to Psalm 119:1-7 if you will:
" Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD! Blessed are those
who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart! They also do no iniquity;
they walk in His ways. You have commanded us to keep Your precepts diligently. Oh, that
my ways were directed to keep your statutes! Then I would not be ashamed, when I look
into all Your commandments. I will praise You with uprightness of heart, when I learn Your
righteous judgments. I will keep Your statutes; Oh do not forsake me utterly!
Did you notice who is blessed? Those who KEEP the testimonies; statutes; commandments; judgments and walk in the ways of יהוה. Do you know His testimonies? The Psalmist indicates that these do no iniquity. Iniquity is sin; and sin is lawlessness. If we don't know what יהוה calls sin; or rather, lawlessness; then how can we alter our behavior and act in a way that is pleasing to יהוה? It says about these which are blessed that they walk in His ways. Do you know the ways of יהוה? The Psalmist indicates that we have been commanded to keep the precepts diligently. Do you know His precepts? The Psalmist indicates that there is shame because of not keeping the statutes or commandments of יהוה. Do you know His commandments and statutes? Do you know the righteous judgments of יהוה? Apparently we are supposed to. Again we find a passage where the term "matheo" is used to translate the Hebrew term Lamad. Turn with me now to Psalm 119:65-71 please and take note:
"You have dealt well with Your servant, O LORD, according to Your word. Teach me good
judgment and knowledge, for I believe Your commandments. Before I was afflicted I went
astray, But now I keep Your word. You are good, and do good; Teach me Your statutes. The
proud have forged a lie against me, but I will keep Your precepts with my whole heart.
Their heart is as fat as grease, But I delight in Your law. It is good for me that I have been
afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes. The law of Your mouth is better to me than
thousands of coins of gold and silver."
Friend did you catch that? We are to learn the statues. In fact it is good that we suffer affliction so that we will learn them. You already know what the Greek and Hebrew terms are which are used for "learn" they are the same as before "matheo;" and "lamad" respectively. Please follow along as we move to Psalms 119:73-80.
"Your hands have made me and fashioned me; give me understanding, that I may learn your
commandments."
The Psalmist pleads for understanding. Why? So he might learn the commandments of the true; and, living God. The commandments of יהוה the Elohim of Abraham; Isaac; and Jacob. As repetitive as it sounds again we find the Greek term "matheo" being used to translate the Hebrew term for "Lamad" AND the thing which is to be learned are the commandments of יהוה. Next we shall hear from the Prophet Isaiah. Turn to chapter 1:16-17 please:
"Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; put away the evil of your doings from before My
eyes. Cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, rebuke the oppressor; defend the
fatherless, plead for the widow."
Are you aware of what the Bible calls "good" that you may learn to do it? Perhaps it's time for you to discover for yourself by studying it more deeply than ever. What of evil? Do you know all the Bible calls evil; or of justice? Today many are clamoring for "social justice" I tell you the truth; that is NOT the justice יהוה is speaking of. What of those who are oppressors? Do you know the Bible's definition; or, only what the news media tells you is oppressive? Are you pleading for the widow? What do you do for her? The Prophet Isaiah 2:3 indicates that when Messiah returns:
"many people shall come and say 'Come and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the
house of the God of Jacob; He will teach us His ways, and we shall walk in His paths. For
out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. He shall judge
between the nations, and rebuke many people; they shall beat their swords into plowshares,
and the spears into pruning hooks; Nations shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall
they learn war anymore. O house of Jacob come and let us walk in the light of the LORD."
Mankind will learn the ways of the LORD and to walk in His paths contained in the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה. Turn now with me to
Isaiah 26:9-10:
Isaiah 26:9-10:
"With my soul I have desired You in the night, yes by my spirit within me I will seek You
early; for when Your judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will
learn righteousness. Let grace be shown to the wicked, yet he will not learn righteousness..."
Friends there will come a time when all the inhabitants of the earth will learn righteousness. That time is coming soon; when the judgments of יהוה are in the earth. Do you happen to know what they are? Perhaps it's time we learned them. What should trouble you is that grace is shown to the wicked and they STILL do not learn righteousness. Why should that trouble you? Because MANY today assert they are under grace; and, not under the law. Unfortunately many of those who make this assertion are not aware of how the Bible indicates the wicked behave; and, if you examine their lives; inspecting the fruit, you will find they too behave as the wicked do. Yet; they profess to be under grace. Isaiah says the wicked are shown grace; and do not learn righteousness. Not a good place to be; nor a good thing to claim if you do not walk in righteousness.
One of the things that grieves me the most is when I share what I already have with you; with people whom I love; and, care for; and, they reject it. Opportunity to speak with them about the actual meaning of being "under grace" vs. "under the law" is often squashed because they prefer their ears to be tickled. They desired instead for their hearts to be comforted as they persist in sinful behavior while rejecting the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה which the Bible indicates the Children of Israel are to learn. They claim faith in Messiah; and, fail to recognize that faith grafts them; adopts them into those יהוה recognizes and calls Israel. They have erred by not being able to test the spirits. Because of their ignorance of the text the adversary has been able to seduce them with false teachings; and, doctrines of demons rather than sound doctrine which comes from the mouth of יהוה. Do not think I consider myself better than you. For I know that by comparing myself to the standard of Torah I fall woefully short; have behaved as the wicked; and even despised the law at times. I say this to my own shame. For I acknowledge that my own heart is deceitfully wicked; and, my eyes desire the lusts of the flesh. I desire to do the works of righteousness; and, still the war I fight is with my own flesh. Yet; there will come a day when I will no longer have to fight with this body of corruption. I will be given a new vessel; one what is completely filled with the Holy Spirit always with no lapse in obedience for an eternity; God willing. My deepest desire is to live in a realm where sin is gone; has been removed; and, righteousness dwells forever. There is hope for those who have erred. Turn with me to Isaiah 19:24:
"These also who erred in spirit will come to understanding, and those who complained will
learn doctrine."
There are many who will point out that this passage is speaking to the house of Jacob. This was a term used for all Israel. ALL of her. Friends many of you still are not aware that your faith in Messiah grafts you into Israel; you are a fellow heir; and, member of the household of יהוה the God of Israel. His instructions given to Moses at Mt. Horeb are for ALL Israel; yesterday; today; tomorrow; and forever; those natural born; and, adopted. The Father's plan has ALWAYS been to INCLUDE the Gentile into his household; we just failed to recognize HOW He planned on accomplishing it.
Not long ago I had a meeting with a woman who had come to visit our congregation. She was a self-titled "Pastor" who gave herself a new name; and, was professing false doctrine. I agreed to meet with her over lunch hoping I could correct her gently. She asserted heavily that I studied too much; and, needed to learn to listen to what HER VERSION of the Holy Spirit was saying. Her version of the Holy Spirit indicated that we have no responsibility to obey Torah whatsoever. "Those are Old laws" she asserted; "Messiah did away with them on the cross" she pressed. She also asserted that they were "only for the Jews." Funny, If Messiah actually did away with them, then it would stand to reason that he did away with them for ALL PEOPLE not just the Jews. Her flimsy argument contradicts itself. Although she believes the law to be "cast off" by Messiah she is quick to instruct her "followers" to tithe; and, support her so that she can to the "Lord's work." If only she understood that the tithe was food; not money. If only she understood that only the Levite was authorized to receive the tithe; and, then distribute it to the poor; the widow; the orphans; and the fatherless; those who are needy and have fallen into poverty; classifications which do not describe her at all. I reminded her that Timothy (which was written by Paul) indicates we are to "study to show ourselves approved." He doesn't say to pray to show yourself approved; or, to speak in tongues to show yourself approved; or, to tithe to show yourself approved. He doesn't say simply to read; but rather to STUDY. How can you know how to test the Spirits if you do not know what the text of the Bible says? How can you render sound judgment if you are only relying on prayer? What if the spirit you are engaged to is NOT the Holy Spirit but rather a demon that is thoroughly enjoying the fact he is deceiving you? What if the spirit you are in communication with is a Spirit of error? Did you even know such a thing exists? Follow me to 1 John 4:6 please.
"We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. By this
we know the spirit of truth; and, the spirit of error."
Are we not commanded to test even the spirits? 1 John 4:1:
"Beloved, do not believe every spirit but test the spirits whether they are of God; because
many false prophets have gone out into the world."
We are warned in 1 Timothy 4:1 about what will befall the followers within the congregation of the last days:
"Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed
to deceiving spirits; and, doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own
conscience seared with a hot iron..."
Friends if we have not learned the statues; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה declared by His mouth to His servant Moses then we are at risk of being deceived because we lack a solid foundation. Instead we are like the man who builds his house upon the sand. I tell you the truth false teachers twist even the definition of what is considered food by יהוה. I'm sure you have seen or heard those teachers who profess to be speaking a heavenly language as they blather with sentences that sound more like a hostage situation than the words of angels. They blurt out passages like "ha babba sha fa she chaf a chan" which literally means absolutely nothing; and, fail to have an interpreter in the audience. Turn with me now to Isaiah 32:4 please:
"Also the heart of the rash will understand knowledge, and the tongue of the stammerers will
be ready to speak plainly."
Friends have you ever heard a person who asserts they are "speaking in tongues" when it sounds like repetitive gobly gook? Before I went into the Marine Corps I had taken three years of French from the third grade until the sixth grade; followed by one year of Spanish; and, one year of Latin in High School. Real Languages do not repeat in the manner we hear those repeat who claim to be speaking in tongues. It is interesting to note that the Ancient Hebrew Lexicon of the Bible defines this term "stammerers" as follows:
"A mocking by stammering; or, imitation of a foreign tongue."
Friends they are FAKING IT. If you examine their doctrine many times it is just as fake as their phony baloney "tongue." STAY AWAY from those false teachers; they have nothing of value to teach you and if you do not; you will wail and gnash your teeth when you recognize you were duped and their ministries weren't about truth; but, about making themselves wealthy.
Let us turn now our attention to the Prophet Jeremiah to discover what the Bible indicates we are to LEARN or perhaps NOT LEARN as we will see in a moment. Turn to Jeremiah 10:1 please:
"Hear the word which the LORD speaks to you, O house of Israel. Thus says the LORD: 'Do
not learn the way of the gentiles; do not be dismayed at the signs of the heaven, for the
gentiles are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are futile; for one cuts a tree
from the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the ax. They decorate it with silver
and gold; they fasten it with nails and hammers so that it will not topple. They are upright like
a palm tree, and they cannot speak; they must be carried, because they cannot go by
themselves. Do not be afraid of them, for they cannot do evil, not can they do any good.'
Friends, beloved, Jeremiah says we are NOT to learn the ways of the Gentiles. Why then do so many who are claiming to be Christians; a term which asserts you are "Christ-like" walk in a way that Messiah Himself NEVER walked? People wear fancy t-shirts or wrist bands with catchy slogans like W.W.J.D.. Friends it isn't about what would Jesus do. The question is What DID Yeshua do? How did He walk? Did He ignore the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה? If He violated them; then He is a sinner and has ZERO STANDING or ability to die for your sins because he is not clean from sin Himself. My assertion is that as a Torah observant Jew Himself; He would have been aware of Jeremiah's prophecy; and, would Himself not be interested in learning the ways of the Gentiles. He would NOT celebrate many things which Christians are today quite comfortable with. Furthermore when He comes again setting up His millennial kingdom He will rebuke MANY people. When we challenge them on these issues many become angry; and, defensive. Their flesh screams out; and, they will defend their practices; some even it seems to the death. Yet I tell you the truth. Messiah didn't ask you to celebrate Christmas; or, Easter. Those are the ways of the Gentiles; and, have a history that is attached to pagan origins. Instead learn the ways of יהוה and you cannot; you will not go wrong. Learn to walk as the upright do so you will find mercy; and, grace; the kind that is lasting and permanent.
Friends the things which are "unlearned" by those Peter accuses of being "unstable" are the very things the TaNaK indicates the children of Israel are to learn. We have received instruction from יהוה to learn the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה. If they knew them they would not be "unlearned"; and, they would not twist Paul to say what he does not. They would know how to lead all men into the full counsel of יהוה. When Messiah came He had the full knowledge of יהוה. He knew everything that יהוה had said with His own mouth and had commanded through His prophet Moses; and, all those who came afterwards. In fact it was obedience that יהוה has always desired from the beginning. Messiah's use of the Prophet Hosea's passage Hosea 6:6 makes this very point.
"For I desire mercy; and, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings."
He isnt' saying NO to burnt offerings. He is saying I DESIRE that you know my instructions; and, DO them instead of having to come; and, make sacrifice repeatedly over; and, over again; day after day; week after week; month after month; because you are BREAKING my statues; violating my commandments; ignoring my judgments; refusing my ordinances; and forgetting my testimonies. Imagine יהוה shaking His head doing a facepalm and saying to Himself "why don't they get it?" Even Messiah says in Matthew 9:13:
"For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."
The Pharisees were SUPPOSED to be teaching repentance instead of separating themselves from tax collectors; and, sinners; and, repenting themselves. They SHOULD have been calling for repentance; which requires that one DO the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה but, were instead calling for oral traditions to rule over Torah.
The Oral Traditions of the Pharisees were expansive; and even today we can see just how massive they have become in Orthodox Judaism when we examine the Mishnah; Gemara; Talmud; and, many other writings. The Torah contains only 613 commandments; which are repeated in the New Testament. In fact the New Testament contains 1,050 commands. Most Christians have failed to even examine the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה let alone the list of commands in the New Testament. They shake their fists declaring "we are not under the law" while they gladly place themselves under a system of Government that has a hundred fold more law; and, regulations than were ever asked of us by יהוה.
The version of Mishnah published by ArtScroll is 44 volumes in length; while the Babylonian Talmud (Bavli) is 73 volumes; and, the Jerusalem Talmud (Yerushalmi) just as expansive. Friends that is almost an additional 200 volumes of material! Messiah Himself said that His burden was light. Friends Messiah never said he DIDN'T have a burden; he said His was LIGHT. Pay CLOSE attention because many are teaching there is NO YOKE when we come to Messiah. THAT IS A LIE!!! Turn with me to Matthew 11:29:
"Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will
find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
The term for light (ἐλαφρός) elaphros G1645 used here means "easy." It comes from a root word that means "smaller" and also appears in the LXX to translate a Hebrew word meaning "smaller" or "abbreviated." The Pharisees had expanded what Moses had said and written by extensively adding to it which was an express violation of the instructions given by יהוה. The very things that Messiah used as His defense constantly were the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances and testimonies of יהוה and He pointed to them always. The term Matthew uses here for "yoke" is zugos (ζυγός) and can mean a literal yoke. However figuratively it means servitude (law or obligation). Bear that in mind when you consider that the Pharisees were not actually teaching Israel to follow the Torah of יהוה. Also there appears to be a play on words here. Messiah says his burden or yoke is "light." Did you know that the Torah; and, its commandments were called "light" and a "lamp unto our feet?" Messiah's burden IS Torah it literally is what the Bible calls "light!"
The context of Messiah's statement as recorded by the testimony of Matthew is during a particular feast. Follow me now as we turn to John 7:14 bearing in mind the feast being spoken of is mentioned in John 7:2 the Feast of Tabernacles:
"Now about the middle of the feast Jesus went up into the Temple and taught. And the Jews
marveled, saying, "How does this man know letters, having never studied?" Jesus answered
them and said "My doctrine is not Mine but His who sent Me."
Here is the term "matheo" used for "studied." In some translations it is rendered "learned." Messiah's answer is clear. The Doctrine He is teaching isn't new; and, it isn't His own. It is FROM יהוה. We know that יהוהdoesn't change. Therefore why would He change His mind and send Messiah; our salvation; and, a prophet to teach something that is contrary to what He; and, His prophets had already said. It doesn't jive to say Messiah came to do away with the Torah of Moses when you press upon the text because it doesn't pass scrutiny; that is unless you are lying; twisting; making crooked what is straight and perverting the truth. Then of course it makes sense (to the person whose mind is twisted). To those who walk uprightly it is foolishness. Next let us go to Romans 16:17 if you would:
"Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the
doctrine which you learned and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our
LORD Jesus Christ but their own belly, and by smooth words flattering speech deceive the
hearts of the simple. For your obedience has become known to all."
Notice if you would that these Roman believers are obedient; and, it has come to the attention of all. The fact they are said to be "obedient" indicates these men are keepers of the statues; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies which they "learned" as instructed by the scriptures. They couldn't have learned anything different; because at that time there WAS NO NEW TESTAMENT. Therefore there was NOT another doctrine to be learned except that which came from what the Bible defines as "scripture." Therefore they were to make note of those who taught doctrine that was CONTRARY to the "scriptures" which caused "divisions."
The Greek term used here is (διχοστασιας) "dichostasia" pronounced as dee-khos-tas-ee'-ah. Strong's says it is from a derivative of G1364 and G4714; meaning disunion, that is, (figuratively) dissension: - division, sedition. According to Webster's New College Dictionary the definition of dissension is "a difference of opinion; disagreement; discord as expressed in intense quarreling or wrangling, as within a group; dissatisfaction with those in authority. I find it striking that among the definitions of dissent in Webster's it says this: "to reject the doctrines and forms of an established church; religious nonconformity."
Friends are you aware of when the "church" was established? I tell you the truth; it was in the wilderness; just as Paul indicates in Acts 7:38. These men of whom Paul writes are teaching contrary to the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה. He also indicates that they cause offenses. The Greek term used here for offenses is (σκάνδαλον) skandalon pronounced "skan'-dal-on." Here is what Strong's has to say about it:
"A “scandal”; probably from a derivative of G2578; a trap stick (bent sapling), that is, snare
(figuratively cause of displeasure or sin): - occasion to fall (of stumbling), offence, thing that
offends, stumbling- block."
These men cause displeasure. They are causing men to SIN because what they teach is CONTRARY TO TORAH. They are CAUSING men to stumble. They are the CAUSE of offense. Not offense as in "you stepped on my foot and I got offended;" but rather, "you caused someone to sin." Turn with me to Psalms 119:165 please:
"Great peace have those who love your law [TORAH], and nothing causes them to stumble."
שׁלוםH7965 peace רבH7227 Great לאהביH157 have they which love
תורתךH8451 thy law: ואיןH369 and nothing
למו מכשׁול׃H4383 shall offend
The term for "offend" used here is H4383. Here is what Strong's has to say about it.
(מכשׁל מכשׁול) "mikshôl mikshôl mik-shole', mik-shole.' Masculine from H3782; a
stumblingblock, literally or figuratively (obstacle, enticement (specifically an idol),
scruple): - caused to fall, offence, X [no-] thing offered, ruin, stumbling-block.
Friends I hope that you can see it is clear the very thing these men who are causing divisions; and, offenses are teaching is CONTRARY TO TORAH. We are instructed to AVOID THEM; and, that they DO NOT SERVE YESHUA. Oh how the adversary has twisted the words of Paul; and, of Scripture to say what it does not. We as a people are desperately in need of repentance. We are desperately in need of returning to the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה so that we can be among those who are blessed rather than those who are cursed. Meanwhile there are those teachers who are CAUSING others to sin tell them that they are NOT to be Torah Keeping. Oh how twisted the Enemy is. Turn with me now to 2 Timothy 3:13-17:
"But evil men will grow worse and worse, deceiving; and, being deceived. But you must
continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you
have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are
able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is
given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for
instruction in righteousness, that they man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for
every good work."
Notice that Paul indicates to Timothy that he has known the Holy Scriptures from his childhood. This EXCLUDES the entirety of the New Testament from the Biblical definition of "Scripture." Now I want to clarify that I am NOT suggesting we toss the New Testament. That is NOT my intention at all. My suggestion is that we properly identify; and label what the components of the Bible are according to ITS DEFINITION.
The congregation of Messiah is defined as a "body" using the components of the human body as examples. Our eyes; ears; mouth; hands; feet; all are a part of our body; yet, each one is separate; and, distinct from the other. All are made of the same material; our flesh. Some have bones; some do not, because they have different functions; therefore we cannot say that an eye is the same as a foot; or, a hand. One can be blinded; and, still be able to walk. One can loose a foot; or, an eye; and, still be able to see. One can be deaf; and, still able to see; and, talk. The Bible itself has different books or components; and, each one serves a different purpose.
The Psalms do not serve the same purpose as Leviticus; but rather direct us to the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה. The Prophets serve a purpose which is to both warn Israel of impending judgment; and, to plead with us to return so that we will not face destruction as many of our ancestors before us did because of their refusal to be obedient.
The purpose of the law is not the same purpose as Messiah. One is designed to redeem from sin (Messiah); the other is to define sin (The Torah). The Testimonies of the Apostles Matthew; Mark; Luke and John served the purpose of bearing witness to the Messiah Himself. Just as Josephus bears witness to portions of the history of our people Israel during a snapshot in time; so have they. Yet Josephus does not bear witness to the identity; and, provide evidence that Yeshua was Himself the Prophet like unto Moses; and, the Horn of Salvation promised by the Law; and, the Prophets. Without their testimony we have no proof He has come. Without their testimony the world has no knowledge of who they are to strive to imitate.
The adversary hates all the books of the Bible. My friends they are to be highly valued; cherished; studied; and, revered. The entirety of the New Testament is evidence that יהוה began to call out a people from among the nations which is precisely what He prophesied He would do. It is evidence of HOW those who are called Gentiles (Goy) are adopted into the household of Israel. They give us a glimpse of our King and just how much he loves us. So much that he was willing to come down as a man; and, die in a manner most agree is horrific.
The letters of Paul are evidence of how the Holy Spirit (קדשׁך ורוח) the "ruach kodesh" as spoken of by David in Psalm 51:11; can transform a life of even a hardened man intent upon persecuting; and, putting to death the very saints of יהוה. They are insight to the challenges which were present in the Congregation of יהוה in the first century after He sent His son to die once and for all for the sins of all men. Without them the Bible is incomplete. Without them those who are Jews by birth are left impotent not knowing the identity of their King. Without the Torah; and, prophets Gentiles are left impotent not knowing what is expected of those who are adopted. We need them all; every book; every chapter; every verse; every word. They are food for our souls; and, necessary for evidence that יהוה is doing what He promised; and, that everything spoken of which falls in line with Prophecy spoken from the lips of Messiah as recorded in Matthew; Make; Luke; and John as well as the Revelation of Jesus Christ are reliable; and, will come to pass. What Messiah SAID was prophecy; what the writers wrote about what they saw is TESTIMONY.
When we understand the foundation; and, are "taught;" "trained;" and "stable" we no longer twist Paul gaining a closer more intimate understanding of our King; our Savior; and, how we are to walk in righteousness. It tells us that Paul is credible; and, not a false teacher. It is evidence to both the Jew and Non-Jew that is adopted into the household and congregation of יהוה that Paul didn't teach against the Torah of Moses; that he can be trusted; and, that his own testimony about what will come to pass is because יהוהallowed him to understand; and, pass it on to us that we might be prepared.
Ensuring that we properly identify Paul in relation to the Scriptures in no way takes away from his message. In fact it enhances it because it enables us to more clearly understand that his intention is that we go TO THE SCRIPTURES for doctrine; for reproof; for correction; for instruction in righteousness so that we are complete; and, thoroughly equipped for every good work. Paul knew that יהוה is raising up a royal priesthood; as well as Kings to serve in the Kingdom of יהוה. He knows that without the Holy Scriptures we are not prepared; or, able to complete our duties in a faithful manner. I implore you to ensure you have a solid; and, stable foundation in the Torah; knowing the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and, testimonies of יהוה so that your walk will be straight; and, not crooked.
My desire is that we will all be made wise unto salvation; and not foolish; or, cast off because we were rejected. I plead with you to strengthen your foundation so that you would have eyes to see; and, ears to hear; so Paul himself will not rebuke you. That Moses might praise you. That יהוה might say "well done my good and faithful servant" in the hearing of your own ears to you. So you might be blessed and fruitful. That you might teach with the same fearlessness; and, conviction given to Messiah Himself as we operate as ambassadors for יהוה; and, His only begotten son Yeshua the Nazarine. I pray that we might all weep in joy when we either come with Him; or, are blessed to see Him coming with our own eyes. Come along with me now as we examine what the Bible indicates gives us "stability."
wow! I love the way you say everything, it brought tears to my eyes!
ReplyDeleteSherri thank you. It is humbling to say the least. Please share the blog with others. Each post is another chapter. Right now I am updating Chapter 8 on "What makes us Stable;" and, part two (2) of Chapter 10 "Playing the Grace Card." I hope that my study has blessed you and helped you to see who we are and what we are to be doing.
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