WHAT MAKES US STABLE?
We have examined what the Bible indicates we are to learn; thereby revealing what they who are "untaught" have NOT LEARNED; the statues; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה. Peter indicates in his epistle that these men who twist Paul are "unstable" in addition to being "untaught."
The question we must answer next is this; what (according to scripture) causes; or, brings stability? When we have answered this question I hope the meaning behind Peter's statement will become obvious to you. Thank you for coming this far; do not lose heart but press on with me as we dig into scripture for answers that will help make us wiser than the wicked. Come along as we seek to uncover the truth about these men so that we will do our best not to walk in the same manner as they. Should we discover that we ourselves have been walking as the "unlearned;" and, "unstable" do; then we must change our way of thinking; and, perhaps even our behavior.
The time of Messiah's return is not far off; and, between now; and, the time He arrives those who have understanding are charged with the instruction of those who have ears to hear; and, eyes to see. Can you not feel the escalation of wickedness around you? You can almost feel it like electricity in the air during a storm that makes the hair of your arms and legs stand up. My friends it is written that those who have understanding shall fall, to refine them; purify; and, make white, the time of the end. The Prophet Daniel indicates in Daniel 11:33-35:
"Many shall be purified, made white and refined, but the wicked shall do wickedly, and none
of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand."
Some will argue against my use of this passage. I tell you the truth; the end is not come yet; there is a little time left before His coming. The time for refinement is today, while you still are free men. The time to choose on your own to be purified; and, made white is NOW while you have the power to choose.
We read repeatedly in the Torah about how יהוה the Elohim of our Fathers sent messengers; pleading with the people to repent and turn back to righteousness. The scripture indicates in
2 Chronicles 36:15-17 that יהוה responded to his people:
"...because He had compassion on His people and His dwelling place. But they mocked the
messengers of God, despised His words, and scoffed at His prophets, until the wrath of the
LORD arose against His people, till there was no remedy."
The answer of יהוה was to bring a nation that was terrible against His people; delivering them into the hand of the wicked for destruction of their flesh. He is the same yesterday; today; and forever. If His anger burned against those who were called by His name in times past; how can we think He would NOT do the same thing to a nation such as The United States of America which was supposedly founded upon Biblical principles? We have strayed far; and, what is occurring within the borders of our nation is evidence His hand has been removed. We as a people have lost His favor.
Children are slaughtered here in America by numbers which are untold; wickedness that is unparalleled. The poor; and, defenseless are daily sacrificed to demons in the name of "convenience." Our political leaders lie; their lips do not know how to speak truth. The media twists stories for the benefit of those who pay them for control; rewarding them for bias; and, dishonesty by those who fund them. Those who are supposed to be Shepherds feed themselves upon the fat of the flock. They keep their followers ignorant by teaching lies; and, abusing their position to create wealth for themselves; and, to live in comfort many would characterize as opulence.
Since the election of Barak Hussein Obama on November 4th 2008 this nation has become increasing more hostile to the nation of Israel; and the Jewish inhabitants regardless of their religious persuasion. America is more divided than ever before based upon race; sex; religion; marital status; and, sexual orientation. People are literally rioting in the streets; and, murdering police officers in cold blood. There are those in the black community who are openly calling for other blacks to "stalk and kill" white people. Hispanics feel targeted because of those who have immigrated here by circumventing legally recognized methods of gaining entrance to our nation. Candidates running for office declare there is a "war on women" while blatantly ignoring the very REAL war on those who are unborn. Christians are targets for hostility; not just on the street; but, in the courtroom as well. Homosexuals; and, lesbians are literally doing anything; and, everything in their power to be seen as "equals" with those who marry as a man and a women. Those who self identify as "transgender" are on the rise.
Friends it is natural to treat things that are the same in the same way; however, we treat things that are different DIFFERENTLY! If homosexual/lesbian/transgender/LGBT relationships were the SAME as marriage between a man; and, a woman they wouldn't be hammering away for "equality." Although I no longer attend Calvary Chapel; I must say that this sermon by Dr. Frank Turek which was given July 2015 at Calvary Chapel Chino Hills California is right on. I happen to have a lot of respect for many of the Pastors at Calvary Chapel; yet, I disagree with their conclusions about our response to the Law. Please understanding I am not endorsing Calvary Chapel; or Pastor Jack Hibbs (even though I like him). Please listen to this sermon by Dr. Frank Turek about the "same sex marriage issue."
Officers who are supposed to defend; and, protect are abusing their authority far exceeding what would be considered an appropriate response killing belligerents who could have easily been subdued with non-lethal means. Corruption is rampant; and, blatant within almost every level of Government from local city counsels all the way to the White House itself. To top it off our nation has been responsible for arming; and, training ISIS under the command of a wicked Pharaoh. יהוה will use America to come against Israel just as He has used other nations in the past; then will rain down judgment upon America just as He did to Egypt; Assyria; Babylon; Rome; the Ottoman Empire; and, even the emerging beast spoken of in Revelation; and, Daniel. Our nation will not escape the eye or the judgment of the true and living God יהוה.
Right under our own noses the wealth of America has been slowly siphoned away over the last seventy seven years. On May 31, 1932 oil was struck in Bahrain which led to the impetus to search for other pockets of oil in the Arabian peninsula. Since that time America has funneled trillions of dollars of its wealth into the hands of oil producing nations in the middle east; many who will smile as they take our money; but, in their hearts they HATE America. Multinational Corporations have suppressed and even helped put smaller American businesses out to pasture while they too suck the breast of the American economy. Then when laws threaten to invade their profits in the form of taxation they move offshore taking their facilities; and, their profits with them. Instead of behaving like businesses run by men who love righteousness; they are run by men who only love money instead. American citizens are laid off; or, displaced; then foreign workers are brought in and given the same jobs; the same responsibilities; and, for considerably less pay. They do so because it makes financial sense to increase their bottom line while neglecting the loss of human capital. Our economy has become "unstable" because as a nation we neglect to learn; and, apply what brings stability. Yes my friends the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and, testimonies of יהוה are meant to extend to business as well. They aren't just for your personal life. They are supposed to govern the entire way of life for those who are the people of יהוה.
Instead of embracing what we are supposed to learn; our current President has mocked it. He has cast it down in speeches; and, with his actions. Instead he has sought to advance Islam within the borders of our nation. Mark my words; America WILL be judged harshly for her actions; and, I believe that time is not far off. He does not behave as a man who is convicted by Torah. He behaves as a man who despises it.
Meanwhile Messiah is weeping; his heart crushed by His own people who reject; and, deny Him. His people are not just those of the tribe of Judah; but, the many others who claim they belong to Him. Can you hear Him crying out to you? He commands us to "feed my sheep." I tell you the truth unless we LEARN; and, DO what we are instructed; unless we become STABLE our bodies; and, souls will perish along with the wicked. Friends I call you to become refined; wise; learned; stable; and, to walk as the upright so that we might receive His grace; mercy; and, forgiveness. When we are assaulted by those who are His enemies (it is coming sooner than you think); we can have the hope; and, reassurance that we too will be raised. We too will be exalted as His son who bore our sins upon the stake for us was also raised from the dead. Though our bodies may see corruption; we may be counted among the righteous whom He calls His "friends."
"Do not fear man who can only destroy the body; but rather, fear יהוה who can destroy both
the body and soul in hell." (See Matthew 10:28; and, Luke 12:5).
Come with me as we uncover "unstable;" and, learn what gives a man stability.
Friends this definition was remarkably more difficult than the others. This particular term used in 2 Peter 3:16 (comes from two components in the Greek language. Here is what Strong's has to say about it:
(αστηρικτοι) astēriktos pronounced "as-tay'-rik-tos" From G1 (as a negative particle)
and a presumed derivation of G4741; unfixed, that is, (figuratively) vacillating: - unstable.
This particular term comes from another term G4741 (στηρίζω). This is what Strong's says about it:
stērizō stay-rid'-zo. From a presumed derivative of G2476 (like G4731); to set fast, that is,
(literally) to turn resolutely in a certain direction, or (figuratively) to confirm: - fix,
(e-) stablish, stedfastly set, strengthen.
This first term astēriktos only appears in 2 Peter 3:16; and in 2 Peter 2:14. It appears interestingly enough NOWHERE ELSE. Both times it is rendered "unstable" in the NKJV and in almost every other translation I compared. According to the Concordance to the Greek Scriptures it appears only in these two passages; The King James Concordance is also in agreement. The term is not listed in the Concordance to the LXX; the combination simply appears nowhere else. However; if we drop the negative particle G1 (α); and, keep the presumed derivation of G4741 we find 13 appearances in the Greek New Testament; and, another thirty-five (35) appearances in the LXX giving us much more information. Remember friends the negative particle has the duty of rendering a term opposite its meaning. By dropping the negative particle it makes the "unfixed" now "fixed"; or, the "unstable" becomes "stable." Hopefully I haven't lost you at this point and you are able to follow along.
Since Paul didn't have the benefit of using the New Testament when he taught we will be examining the usage; and, appearances in the Greek translation of the Old Testament (LXX). Estimates for the time of Messiah's death and resurrection are between 30-33 A.D. (C.E.) Common Era. The New Testament is vague on exact times because the letters were NOT dated by the author as we would date a letter; or, copy-write something we wrote today. According to www.gty.org (Grace to You) the website of the widely known preacher John McArthur the book of Acts was written in approximately 62 AD (C.E.) some thirty years after Messiah's death; burial; and, resurrection. Follow along with me for a moment. The Testimonies of Matthew; Mark; Luke; John; James the brother of Jesus are thought to have been written in the following time periods:
The book of Acts is thought to have been written by Luke because of the greeting "The former account I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began to do and teach..." combined with the beginning of Luke where it is clear Luke is writing to Theophilus to:
"write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty
of those things in which you were instructed."
Theophilus would not have been instructed in anything from the New Testament because it simply didn't exist in a widely disseminated format yet. Furthermore there is evidence to suggest this was the High Priest of the Temple in Jerusalem (AD 37-41) Theophilus Ben Annis who was a Cohen and Sadducee. He would have been a brother in law to Caiaphus as the Son of Annis and would have been raised in the Temple. Therefore it CANNOT be the New Testament to what Luke is referencing in his statement about "those things in which you were instructed." For skeptics there was a osuary discovered in Israel bearing the inscription "Johanna granddaughter of Theophilis the High Priest." It was written about in a publication called the Israel Exploration Journal. (D. Barag and D. Flusser, "The Ossuary of Yehohanah Granddaughter of the High Priest Theophilus", Israel Exploration Journal, 36 (1986), 39-44.)
At the time Paul (Saul) was teaching; we see throughout his epistles that he would cite the Torah; Prophets; and writings of the TaNaK heavily. Although Matthew; Mark; and, Luke had been written by then; and, could have been available IF Paul had copies; Paul NEVER in any of his epistles cites the testimonies of Matthew; Mark; Luke; or, John calling them "scripture." Paul DOES cite the four Gospels indirectly when he cites the words of Messiah. We can see in 1 Corinthians 11:23-25 Paul is obviously familiar with the passages dealing with Messiah's reference to himself as the hidden Matzo (which has a beautiful meaning within the context of the Hebrew Passover Seder). See Matthew 26:26-28; Mark 14:22-24; and, Luke 22:19-20. Some attempt to assert that Paul calls Luke "scripture" because of the usage of the following passage in 1 Timothy 5:18:
"For the Scripture says, "You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain," and "The
laborer is worthy of his wages."
There are those who assert Paul is calling Luke 10:7 "Scripture;" except there is the Greek term "kai" (και) which means "and; also; even; so; then; to; likewise; moreover; and a few other terms" separating the too passages. There is no dispute from me that Paul is quoting the Scripture when he says "You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain" which is located in Deuteronomy 25:4. However, in the second half Paul quotes Messiah's statement in Luke 10:7. If Paul considers Luke to be "scripture" why when does he not quote Luke more frequently as the does the writings of the TaNaK? If Paul considered the four testimonies of Matthew; Mark; Luke; and John to be equally relevant to what the Bible defines as Scripture (the TaNaK) why then does He not quote them more; and, why does he not refer to them as "scripture?" Another thing to consider; Paul quotes Messiah in 1 Corinthians 11:23-25 why does he not say "the scripture says" or "it is written" before he quotes Messiah? My observation based on the totality of the evidence; and, not the specific one; or, two verses used to make a flimsy assertion is the following. Paul KNOWS what is scripture; he KNOWS what is reliable testimony; and, he KNOWS apparently what are the words of Messiah were because he quotes them. That tells me Paul had READ or HEARD what Messiah had said; and, done. Friends Paul was aware that Messiah wasn't pointing us to Himself; He was constantly pointing towards Scripture.
Nowhere else does Paul cite any of the New Testament writers; not once; zero; zilch; nada; zippo. What he DOES cite are the Torah; Prophets; and writings of the TaNaK. Nor do the other New Testament writers quote each other; but, rather they quote the TaNaK. Therefore I too will use the TaNaK to understand what makes a man "stable;" established; strengthened; or, set fast.
Of the thirty-five (35) times the word sterizo G4741 appears it is rendered in English as the following "pillars;" "steady;" "stand fast; "set up;" "sure;" "stayed up;" "set;" "established;" "sustained;" "abiding;" "strengthen;" shut;" "stay;" "make;" comfort;" "uphold;" "lean;" and "fall." There are twenty (20) Greek variations of the term "sterizo" which appear in these thirty five (35) passages. These twenty (20) variations are used to translate nine (9) different Hebrew terms. Two of these Hebrew terms appear more frequently than the others in these thirty five (35) passages. These terms are Strong's # H5564 sâmak (סמך) and Strong's # H7760 śûm (שׂוּם).
Out of these thirty-five appearance ONLY ONE is a near exact match to the term 2 Peter 3:16 (αστηρικτοι) and that is found in Psalm 112:8. Turn there if you would:
"His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies."
Here it is in the LXX:
ἐστήρικται ἡ καρδία αὐτοῦ, οὐ μὴ φοβηθῇ, ἕως οὗ ἐπίδῃ ἐπὶ τοὺς ἐχθροὺς αὐτοῦ
And here it is in the HEBREW:
סמוךH5564 established, לבוH3820 His heart לאH3808 he shall not
ייראH3372 be afraid, עדH5704 until אשׁרH834 until
יראהH7200 he see בצריו׃H6862 upon his enemies.
The term which is rendered "established" in English is the Hebrew term Samak. Here is what Strong's says about it:
H5564 (סמך): sâmak saw-mak'. A primitive root; to prop (literally or figuratively); reflexively
to lean upon or take hold of (in a favorable or unfavorable sense): - bear up, establish,
(up-) hold, lay, lean, lie hard, put, rest self, set self, stand fast, stay (self), sustain.
In all fairness we should take a closer look at the Psalm it is enclosed in for more information rather than just the term itself. Turn with me to Psalm 112:1 please and follow along:
Praise the Lord (יהוה)! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord (יהוה), Who delights greatly
in His commandments. 2 His descendants will be mighty on earth; The generation of the upright
will be blessed. 3 Wealth and riches will be in his house, And his righteousness endures
forever. 4 Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness; He is gracious, and full of
compassion, and righteous. 5 A good man deals graciously and lends; He will guide his affairs
with discretion. 6 Surely he will never be shaken; The righteous will be in everlasting
remembrance. 7 He will not be afraid of evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, resting in the
Lord. 8 His heart is established; He will not be afraid, until he sees his desire upon his
enemies. 9 He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures
forever; His horn will be exalted with honor. 10 The wicked will see it and be grieved; He
will gnash his teeth and melt away; the desire of the wicked shall perish."
Friends have you noticed the subject of this Psalm is the person who fears יהוה and delights greatly in His commandments? The term for delights is (חפץ) H2654 châphêts khaw-fates' and means "to incline; to bend; to be pleased with; to delight; desire; and favor among other things. Apparently this person is blessed if they delight greatly in His commandments. The term used is (מצוה) H4687 Mitzvah and means command; law; ordinance; and, is used to refer to the entirety of the Torah collectively. Do you delight greatly in the many mitzvot which make up the Torah?
Another item to take note of is the term "discretion" In Hebrew the term is H4941 (משׁפּט) Mishpat which is one of the terms used to speak of the Law collectively. The man who is upright will guide his affairs with the the instructions of יהוה. This makes sense in light of the earlier part of the passage speaking of delighting in the commandments.
The next items to pay attention to is the use of the term "steadfast." The Hebrew term for "steadfast" in verse 7 is Strong's # H3559 kûn (כּוּן) and means the following:
A primitive root; properly to be erect (that is, stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set
up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix, prepare, apply), or
figurative (appoint, render sure, proper or prosperous): - certain (-ty), confirm, direct,
faithfulness, fashion, fasten, firm, be fitted, be fixed, frame, be meet, ordain, order, perfect,
(make) preparation, prepare (self), provide, make provision, (be, make) ready, right, set
(aright, fast, forth), be stable, (e-) stablish, stand, tarry, X very deed.
This Psalm indicates; as do many others that the upright will be blessed. This term for upright is (ישׁר) H3477 Yashar and it means "straight" (literally and figuratively); convenient, equity, Jasher, just, meet (-est), + pleased well right (-eous), straight, (most) upright (-ly, -ness). Were you aware that the Psalms indicates that יהוה will withold no good thing from those who walk uprightly? (Psalm 84:11). It's probably a good idea if we figure out what it means to walk like that wouldn't you agree? In fact; Psalm 15:1-2 indicates that those who walk uprightly will abide in the tabernacle of יהוה; they will dwell in the mountain of יהוה. Proverbs 2:7 says that יהוה is a shield or "buckler" to "them who walk uprightly." I don't know about you but I would prefer to have יהוה as my shield than men. Proverbs 10:9 indicates that those who walk with "integrity;" (NKJV) while the (KJV) says "uprightly." The NKJV indicates that this person walks "securely;" and the KJV says "surely." The Hebrew term for security/surely is Strong's # H983" (בּטח) betach pronounced "beh'-takh" meaning "a place of refuge;" security; "a feeling of trust;" "safely;" "assurance;" "boldly;" "confidence."
Meanwhile this same proverb (Proverbs 10:9) draws a parallel between those who walk uprightly and those who "perverts his ways." The term for "perverts" is H6140 (עקשׁ) ‛âqash aw-kash'. Here is the Strong's:
A primitive root; to knot or distort; figuratively to pervert (act or declare perverse): - make
crooked, (prove, that is) perverse (-rt).
In 2 Peter 3:16 it indicates those who are "untaught and unstable wrest"; or, "twist" Paul. In other words they twist; make crooked; or "pervert" what the Scriptures say; as well as do the same thing to the words of Paul. Take note that these are NOT those who walk uprightly. Those who walk uprightly desire to DO the Mitzvah; or, commandments of יהוה while those who pervert their ways don't. Elsewhere we are informed in Proverb 15:21 that men of "understanding" will walk uprightly. Do you have understanding? Are you even aware where it originates from? Friends Proverbs 28:18 indicates that "Whoever walks blamelessly (uprightly) will be saved, but he who is perverse in his ways will suddenly fall." We see the term "uprightly" and "upright" used often to describe those who are righteous and just as frequently we see hints about their behavior and how they conduct themselves.
We see as early as the children of Israel being taken from Egypt the desire of יהוה being to establish them; to teach them to walk uprightly. Friends by your adoption into the Nation of Israel by faith in Yeshua the Messiah the only begotten son of יהוה it is your right; and, duty to learn to walk uprightly. I know that some of you will struggle with me calling you an Israelite; primarily because you equate the term "Israel" with "being Jewish." Friends we must think with the end goal in mind. In the end "all Israel shall be saved" (Romans 11:26). To be a Gentile means to be OUTSIDE of the covenant. To borrow a phrase from Jack Burns you are "outside the circle of trust." Nowhere is there an explanation more clear and pronounced than in Ephesians 2:11-13 where it indicates that at the time the Ephesians were considered gentiles they were:
Within the passage the term "aliens" is used to describe the relationship a Gentile has to the Commonwealth of Israel. The term is (απηλλοτριωμενοι) "apallotrioo" G526 and means to be estranged; to be a non-participant; it's root G245 mean's to be "not one's own; or, hostile." Which is EXACTLY how Muslims who ARE GENTILES in the PUREST sense of the word behave towards the commonwealth of Israel. They do NOT belong to Yeshua; they reject the Father and Son being part of a being that is described as the Father; Son; and Holy Spirit. They are estranged from the commonwealth of Israel. Guess what? So were you and I BEFORE we came to Messiah.
Interestingly enough the term "commonwealth" is G4174 (πολιτειας) "politeia" and it means the following: citizenship; community; commonwealth; and, freedom. FREEDOM. What? Freedom? Friends I assert to you that we are brought OUT of bondage into Freedom. Freedom from what? The bondage of Sin. The Torah is Not bondage; it teaches us how to behave in order that we might ESCAPE THE BONDAGE OF SIN. Another thing; Israel is a community of believers made up of all tongues; tribes; nations; colors; and, ethnicity. It is male and female; young; and old. We my friends ARE citizens of Israel when we accept Messiah; and, his sacrifice for us. We do not replace Israel; we become a part of her. Just as we can become a part of Her; so can those born into Her loose their place by rejecting Messiah; and, the instructions of the God of Abraham Issac and Jacob. His house; his rules. He frees us first because He loves us; then provides us with the rules to stay.
Being called a "stranger" from the "covenants of promise" is no laughing matter. In fact here is what the term means. G3581 (ξενοι) "xenos": foreign; literally an alien; by implication a guest; stranger. Friends guests may come and go in your home; but, they do not have the rights; and, privileges that MEMBERS (citizens) of the family do. They are expected to LEAVE at some point. The don't come to stay permanently. In order to become permanent there has to be some sort of device to make them legally a part of the family; adoption (grafting in) is actually an excellent example. Because both my wife; and, I were adopted as young children into the homes of others this concept makes perfect sense. New house; new rules; in some cases even a new name. Does not God promise to give us a new name?
Isaiah 62:2:
"The Gentiles shall see your righteousness, and all kings your glory. You shall be called by a
new name, which the mouth of the LORD will name."
Revelation 2:17:
"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I
will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone
a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it."
Revelation 3:12:
"He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no
more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New
Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new
name."
We get a new name; and, so does Messiah! Friends it is frightening to consider the next part. Gentiles have no hope. How can I say such a thing? Read Ephesians 2:12. Paul is writing to the Ephesians who were ONCE GENTILES. Friends if you were "once a gentile" then it means you AREN'T ONE ANYMORE!!! I hear Christians all the time saying "I don't have to keep those laws; those are for Jews; I'm a Gentile." No you aren't! You are grafted into Israel by your faith in Messiah. GENTILES HAVE NO COVENANT!!! If you are going to ACT like a Gentile you may find yourself cast out among them in the future! Half of doing what you are supposed to be doing is knowing who you are in the first place; and, unfortunately most Christians don't understand that they are not separate from Israel; we are a part of Her. Ephesians 2:12 says that those without Messiah have no hope. In Greek the mechanical translation would read "hope not having."
The term for "hope" is G1680 (ελπιδα) "elpida;" the root is "elpis" meaning: to anticipate with pleasure; expectation; confidence; faith; hope. The term for "having" is (εχοντες) "echontes;" the root of which is"echo" meaning: to hold; possess; to have; to be closely joined to a person or thing. Friends to be a Gentile means one does not possess hope! They are WITHOUT GOD; separated from Him, by a chasm that cannot be crossed except by way of Messiah.
There is NO covenant with the Gentiles ANYWHERE in the Scripture; NOWHERE! You cannot find even a single explicit passage showing so. There is however the mention of a New Covenant with the house of Israel; and, the house of Judah in Jeremiah 31:31-34 turn there with me:
31 “Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the
house of Israel and with the house of Judah— 32 not according to the covenant that I made with
their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My
covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them, says the Lord. 33 But this is the
covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will
put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they
shall be My people. 34 No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother,
saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of
them, says the Lord. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.”
There was nothing wrong with the original covenant itself. The problem was with the people "which they broke" is an indicator of that. Because of the people this new; or, rather RENEWED Covenant has the instructions in their minds; and, on their hearts. Friends are you unaware that Messiah Himself said the following in Matthew 15:24:
"I have not come EXCEPT for the lost sheep of the house of Israel."
Friends we are grafted into Israel thereby making Yeshua our King; and, fellow brethren; it makes us citizens; not strangers; we now have hope; and, we have an ability to approach יהוה. We are expected to behave as set apart people; holy to יהוה. Turn to Leviticus 26:13 please.
"I am the LORD your God, which brought you out of the land of Egypt, that you should not be
their slaves; I have broken the bands of your yoke and make you walk upright."
The section about being the God which brought you out of Egypt also appears in the "Ten Commandments" as the very first part. He is the God which calls us out of the "house of bondage." The bondage of Israel has always been literal slavery; to men; and, false religious systems. The Torah isn't slavery; it is NEVER called bondage. Sin is bondage my brothers and sisters. You are either a slave to sin; or, a slave to righteousness. Whatever controls you is your master. יהוה has sought to raise up a people who will walk in righteousness; to elevate them above all people; and, then use them to bless all nations. This term used in Leviticus 26:13 for upright is Strong's # H6968 (קוממיּוּת) ko-mem-ee-yooth'. From H6965; elevation, that is, (adverbially) erectly (figuratively): - upright. Its root is even more provocative:
H6965 (קוּם): qûm koom. A primitive root; to rise (in various applications, literally,
figuratively, intensively and causatively): - abide, accomplish, X be clearer, confirm,
continue, decree, X be dim, endure, X enemy, enjoin, get up, make good, help, hold, (help to)
lift up (again), make, X but newly, ordain, perform, pitch, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-)
rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up,
strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure (-ly), (be) up (-hold, -rising).
One of the men in the Bible which is spoken of frequently as being upright is Job. Turn with me to Job 1:1 if you would:
"There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was blameless and
upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil."
Some versions use the term "perfect" instead of blameless. The term used here for blameless is H8535 (תּם) tâm pronounced "tawm." Here is he Strong's definition:
From H8552; complete; usually (morally) pious; specifically gentle, dear: - coupled together,
perfect, plain, undefiled, upright.
We already know that the term upright comes from a word meaning "straight." The Bible indicates that Job shunned evil; and, the term used means to turn off; or away; to depart from; to decline; to put away; or, put down. It also means to withdraw; or, be without. Job wanted nothing to do with what יהוה considered to be evil. He feared יהוה. Do you fear Him? Do you depart from evil? Do you shun what יהוה calls wicked? Three times Job is called upright; and, perfect by יהוה Himself as He is approached by Satan; and, asked to afflict Job. Keep that in the back of your mind friends. יהוה does not do the afflicting; Satan does. He is simply given permission by יהוה to do so.
On a side note one of the 99 names of Allah in the quran is (الضار); "Ad-Darr" meaning
"The Afflictor." This will be important later.
Job 12:4 indicates that Job is a "just" man. The Hebrew term is (צדּיק) H6662 tsaddı̂yq tsad-deek'.
From H6663; just: - just, lawful, righteous (man). H6663 (צדק): tsâdaq tsaw-dak'. A primitive
root; to be (causatively make) right (in a moral or forensic sense): cleanse, clear self, (be, do)
just (-ice, -ify, -ify self), be, turn to) righteous (-ness).
Friends those who are upright ARE just; and, the just ARE upright. We should pay more attention to how the Bible; or, rather "the Scriptures" defines the behavior of the upright; and, just. Remember Paul doesn't fit the definition of "scripture;" his writings are epistles (letters). Do we seek to walk as the just; or, upright do?
Friends I tell you the truth; if we do not have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us it will be IMPOSSIBLE for us to please יהוה. However; when we are the filled with the Holy Spirit; and, are in a relationship with Messiah Yeshua we "can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13; Ephesians 3:16). Including keeping the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of the Torah. Were you unaware of the Psalm 7:10 says? Turn there with me if you would:
"My defense is of God; who saves the upright in heart."
He is our defense; not man. We are instructed in Psalms 11:7 that יהוה is righteous; and, that he loves righteousness. His face gazes upon the upright. I tell you the truth; if we are blessed to be called "upright" we will behold Him with our own eyes. Do you desire to love what He loves; or, to hate what He hates? With our minds focused upon being upright turn with me to Psalms 19:13 please:
"Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless, and I shall be innocent of great transgression."
The term use here for "blameless" is the exact term for "upright." Let's look at this passage first before examining a few before it. The term for "keep back" is H2820 (חשׂך) châśak khaw-sak' and means to restrain; refrain; to refuse; spare; preserve; to hold back. Who does the restraining? I tell you the truth it is not you; or, I that restrains us from sinning; on our own we cannot restrain anything. In English the thing He restrains us from is "presumptuous sin." This term for "sin" is actually absent from the text. The Hebrew term is actually (מזדים) the root of which is H2086 (זד) zêd zade'. Here is what Strong's says about it:
From H2102; arrogant: - presumptuous, proud.
The term "zêd" appears 13 times in the text of the TaNaK and is rendered "proud" most frequently. Interestingly enough the "proud" have a certain behavior. They continually refuse to keep the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה. Many seek to kill; destroy; and, persecute those who do. The root of this term means "to seethe;" "be insolent;" "proud;" "presumptuous." Just in case you aren't clear about what "insolent" means it is defined by Merriam Webster's Dictionary as "rude; or impolite; having; or, showing a lack of respect for other people." The Psalmist is asking יהוה to keep him from pride; to keep it from ruling him. Those who are upright will be innocent from the "great transgression." My friends this is nothing more than the Great Rebellion; or, rather Great Apostasy.
In Hebrew this term for great is (רב) H7227 rab rab meaning "abundant" (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality). It can also mean exceedingly; plenteous; populous; and, many other things. The main thrust is that there are MANY who participate in this "transgression." To my own shame I must admit I have participated in this transgression. In Hebrew the term for "transgression" used here is (מפשׁע) H6588 pesha‛ peh'-shah. Here is what Strong's has to say about it:
From H6586; a revolt (national, moral or religious): - rebellion, sin, transgression,
trespassive.
The root of this term is so provocative that I cannot pass up the opportunity to present it to you. Here is what Strong's says:
H6586 (פּשׁע) pâsha‛ paw-shah'. A primitive root (rather identical with H6585 through the
idea of expansion); to break away (from just authority), that is, trespass, apostatize, quarrel:
offend, rebel, revolt, transgress (-ion, -or).
Need I convince you more about the apostasy? It is a rebellion against the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה. It is a revolt against His authority. It is breaking away from the instructions given to His people by His servant Moses; and the Prophets; and by Messiah Himself.
Today's ruling (Friday June 26th, 2015) by the Supreme Court of the United States; to say that Homosexual marriage is legal in all 50 states is NOT the Great Apostasy. The Apostasy has been going on for a great deal of time now. However; the decision IS a symptom; and, evidence of it. The Great Apostasy has been growing; as the world travels full speed ahead towards destruction. Israel has been attempting to pull away from obedience for centuries. Man has been at WAR with יהוה because he chooses to be disobedient. Within the confines of what SHOULD be a house of obedience there is disobedience. This rebellion encompasses ALL of Modern day Judaism; ALL of Modern day Christianity; and ALL other religions across the globe.
Mankind is rapidly accelerating its taste for all things which are extravagantly depraved; and, exceedingly wicked. What was once taboo; the scandalously perverse; repulsive; and, disgustingly arrogant; shameful beyond all measure is now available on pay-per-view; or, located with a few keystrokes on a laptop as mankind proudly shakes its fist at the creator telling Him WE DON'T WANT TO BE GOVERNED BY YOU.
The response of יהוה will be to allow wicked men; or women, to rule nations. He will allow those who are remarkably more wicked; and, depraved to come against us just as He allowed the Chaldeans to come and wage war against the Children of Israel living in the land in ancient times. Just as we see those living in the land of Israel being attacked almost daily from the South; and the North; and the East; and the West; and, even from within; so shall America have her own tribulation.
Our enemies know the hand of יהוה has been removed; and, they smell blood in the water. Be prepared for the children of Ishmael will seek your life. Do not be surprised when those who call themselves "Christians" who are actually in rebellion against Torah persecute you also. Some will see; and; hear bringing them to repentance.
If you take the name "Christian" I remind you that a Christian is "Christ-like" and that "every servant who is perfectly trained becomes like his master" (Luke 6:40). Do you walk as your master; or, do you follow a "law-less" Messiah? Many will speak arrogantly against us; and, many will behave in a manner that is vile; and, despicable for those who call themselves servants of יהוה. Not all of them will behave this way; but many will. Expect friction from those within the house of Judah as well as they reject you; and, refuse to recognize whom you actually serve.
"You will be hated by all for My name's sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved."
(Matthew 10:22;) See also Psalm 29:27
Turn with me to Psalm 19:7 as we work our way toward Psalm 19:13 shall we? (CLUE)
"The law of the LORD (יהוה) is perfect, converting the soul; the testimony of the LORD
(יהוה) is sure, making wise the simple; the statutes of the LORD (יהוה) are right, rejoicing
the heart; the commandment of the LORD (יהוה) is pure, enlightening the eyes; the Fear of the
LORD (יהוה) is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the LORD (יהוה) are true and
righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; sweeter
also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them Your servant is warned, and in keeping
them there is great reward. Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults."
Friends there are clues here. The Torah is what converts us. Messiah Himself SAID we MUST be converted (Matthew 18:3). He also spoke of those who He DIDN'T want to be converted lest He would heal them (Matthew 13:15; Mark 4:12; John 12:40; and Acts 28:27). In Acts we are instructed that repentance is tied to this conversion (Acts 3:19). We are told in Psalms 25:8 that יהוה is both good; and, upright. Because of this יהוה Himself teaches sinners the way. Beloved there is a right way; and, a wrong way. There is a way of righteousness; and, a way of wickedness. A pathway that is clean; and, another which is unclean. יהוה gives us a choice whether to walk as those who are Holy walk; or, to walk as those who are profane. The term for way in Hebrew is (דּרך) derek daw-rak meaning "a road; a course of life; or, mode of action; manner. Friends Messiah Himself walked in the Way of יהוה. Turn with me now to Psalms 94:12-15 if you would:
"Blessed is the man whom You instruct, O LORD (יהוה) , and teach out of Your law, that you
may give him rest from the days of adversity, until the pit is dug for the wicked. For the
LORD (יהוה) will not cast off His people, nor will He forsake His inheritance. But judgment
will return to righteousness, and all the upright in heart will follow it."
Friends are you aware that יהוה calls Israel "My People" over 82 times in the Bible? He IS the God of Israel! Somehow this is LOST on Christians who believe they are SEPARATE from Israel. They are blind; many of them to WHO THEY ARE!!! My people (Israel) perish for lack of knowledge. Friends we don't replace Israel; we become part of Her. Don't be troubled by your older brother who refuses to recognize you. יהוה will deal with them in His own timing. Friends are you willing to return to righteousness? Have you been instructed by יהוה from out of His Torah?
In the beginning of the chapter we were looking at the terms used to mean "unstable." We learned it was a contraction of two words. One term (sterizo) meaning "stability;" and, a negative participle. Of the two terms that appeared the most to translate the Greek term sterizo was "samak" we also learned it was connected to keeping the commandments; statutes; judgments; ordinances; and, testimonies of יהוה. Come with me now as we look at the Hebrew term for "truth" and round off the importance and source of stability.
The question we must answer next is this; what (according to scripture) causes; or, brings stability? When we have answered this question I hope the meaning behind Peter's statement will become obvious to you. Thank you for coming this far; do not lose heart but press on with me as we dig into scripture for answers that will help make us wiser than the wicked. Come along as we seek to uncover the truth about these men so that we will do our best not to walk in the same manner as they. Should we discover that we ourselves have been walking as the "unlearned;" and, "unstable" do; then we must change our way of thinking; and, perhaps even our behavior.
The time of Messiah's return is not far off; and, between now; and, the time He arrives those who have understanding are charged with the instruction of those who have ears to hear; and, eyes to see. Can you not feel the escalation of wickedness around you? You can almost feel it like electricity in the air during a storm that makes the hair of your arms and legs stand up. My friends it is written that those who have understanding shall fall, to refine them; purify; and, make white, the time of the end. The Prophet Daniel indicates in Daniel 11:33-35:
"Many shall be purified, made white and refined, but the wicked shall do wickedly, and none
of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand."
Some will argue against my use of this passage. I tell you the truth; the end is not come yet; there is a little time left before His coming. The time for refinement is today, while you still are free men. The time to choose on your own to be purified; and, made white is NOW while you have the power to choose.
We read repeatedly in the Torah about how יהוה the Elohim of our Fathers sent messengers; pleading with the people to repent and turn back to righteousness. The scripture indicates in
2 Chronicles 36:15-17 that יהוה responded to his people:
"...because He had compassion on His people and His dwelling place. But they mocked the
messengers of God, despised His words, and scoffed at His prophets, until the wrath of the
LORD arose against His people, till there was no remedy."
The answer of יהוה was to bring a nation that was terrible against His people; delivering them into the hand of the wicked for destruction of their flesh. He is the same yesterday; today; and forever. If His anger burned against those who were called by His name in times past; how can we think He would NOT do the same thing to a nation such as The United States of America which was supposedly founded upon Biblical principles? We have strayed far; and, what is occurring within the borders of our nation is evidence His hand has been removed. We as a people have lost His favor.
Children are slaughtered here in America by numbers which are untold; wickedness that is unparalleled. The poor; and, defenseless are daily sacrificed to demons in the name of "convenience." Our political leaders lie; their lips do not know how to speak truth. The media twists stories for the benefit of those who pay them for control; rewarding them for bias; and, dishonesty by those who fund them. Those who are supposed to be Shepherds feed themselves upon the fat of the flock. They keep their followers ignorant by teaching lies; and, abusing their position to create wealth for themselves; and, to live in comfort many would characterize as opulence.
Since the election of Barak Hussein Obama on November 4th 2008 this nation has become increasing more hostile to the nation of Israel; and the Jewish inhabitants regardless of their religious persuasion. America is more divided than ever before based upon race; sex; religion; marital status; and, sexual orientation. People are literally rioting in the streets; and, murdering police officers in cold blood. There are those in the black community who are openly calling for other blacks to "stalk and kill" white people. Hispanics feel targeted because of those who have immigrated here by circumventing legally recognized methods of gaining entrance to our nation. Candidates running for office declare there is a "war on women" while blatantly ignoring the very REAL war on those who are unborn. Christians are targets for hostility; not just on the street; but, in the courtroom as well. Homosexuals; and, lesbians are literally doing anything; and, everything in their power to be seen as "equals" with those who marry as a man and a women. Those who self identify as "transgender" are on the rise.
Friends it is natural to treat things that are the same in the same way; however, we treat things that are different DIFFERENTLY! If homosexual/lesbian/transgender/LGBT relationships were the SAME as marriage between a man; and, a woman they wouldn't be hammering away for "equality." Although I no longer attend Calvary Chapel; I must say that this sermon by Dr. Frank Turek which was given July 2015 at Calvary Chapel Chino Hills California is right on. I happen to have a lot of respect for many of the Pastors at Calvary Chapel; yet, I disagree with their conclusions about our response to the Law. Please understanding I am not endorsing Calvary Chapel; or Pastor Jack Hibbs (even though I like him). Please listen to this sermon by Dr. Frank Turek about the "same sex marriage issue."
"Correct Not Politically Correct:
How Same Sex Marriage Hurts Everyone - Dr. Frank Turek"
Officers who are supposed to defend; and, protect are abusing their authority far exceeding what would be considered an appropriate response killing belligerents who could have easily been subdued with non-lethal means. Corruption is rampant; and, blatant within almost every level of Government from local city counsels all the way to the White House itself. To top it off our nation has been responsible for arming; and, training ISIS under the command of a wicked Pharaoh. יהוה will use America to come against Israel just as He has used other nations in the past; then will rain down judgment upon America just as He did to Egypt; Assyria; Babylon; Rome; the Ottoman Empire; and, even the emerging beast spoken of in Revelation; and, Daniel. Our nation will not escape the eye or the judgment of the true and living God יהוה.
Right under our own noses the wealth of America has been slowly siphoned away over the last seventy seven years. On May 31, 1932 oil was struck in Bahrain which led to the impetus to search for other pockets of oil in the Arabian peninsula. Since that time America has funneled trillions of dollars of its wealth into the hands of oil producing nations in the middle east; many who will smile as they take our money; but, in their hearts they HATE America. Multinational Corporations have suppressed and even helped put smaller American businesses out to pasture while they too suck the breast of the American economy. Then when laws threaten to invade their profits in the form of taxation they move offshore taking their facilities; and, their profits with them. Instead of behaving like businesses run by men who love righteousness; they are run by men who only love money instead. American citizens are laid off; or, displaced; then foreign workers are brought in and given the same jobs; the same responsibilities; and, for considerably less pay. They do so because it makes financial sense to increase their bottom line while neglecting the loss of human capital. Our economy has become "unstable" because as a nation we neglect to learn; and, apply what brings stability. Yes my friends the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and, testimonies of יהוה are meant to extend to business as well. They aren't just for your personal life. They are supposed to govern the entire way of life for those who are the people of יהוה.
Instead of embracing what we are supposed to learn; our current President has mocked it. He has cast it down in speeches; and, with his actions. Instead he has sought to advance Islam within the borders of our nation. Mark my words; America WILL be judged harshly for her actions; and, I believe that time is not far off. He does not behave as a man who is convicted by Torah. He behaves as a man who despises it.
Meanwhile Messiah is weeping; his heart crushed by His own people who reject; and, deny Him. His people are not just those of the tribe of Judah; but, the many others who claim they belong to Him. Can you hear Him crying out to you? He commands us to "feed my sheep." I tell you the truth unless we LEARN; and, DO what we are instructed; unless we become STABLE our bodies; and, souls will perish along with the wicked. Friends I call you to become refined; wise; learned; stable; and, to walk as the upright so that we might receive His grace; mercy; and, forgiveness. When we are assaulted by those who are His enemies (it is coming sooner than you think); we can have the hope; and, reassurance that we too will be raised. We too will be exalted as His son who bore our sins upon the stake for us was also raised from the dead. Though our bodies may see corruption; we may be counted among the righteous whom He calls His "friends."
"Do not fear man who can only destroy the body; but rather, fear יהוה who can destroy both
the body and soul in hell." (See Matthew 10:28; and, Luke 12:5).
Come with me as we uncover "unstable;" and, learn what gives a man stability.
Friends this definition was remarkably more difficult than the others. This particular term used in 2 Peter 3:16 (comes from two components in the Greek language. Here is what Strong's has to say about it:
(αστηρικτοι) astēriktos pronounced "as-tay'-rik-tos" From G1 (as a negative particle)
and a presumed derivation of G4741; unfixed, that is, (figuratively) vacillating: - unstable.
This particular term comes from another term G4741 (στηρίζω). This is what Strong's says about it:
stērizō stay-rid'-zo. From a presumed derivative of G2476 (like G4731); to set fast, that is,
(literally) to turn resolutely in a certain direction, or (figuratively) to confirm: - fix,
(e-) stablish, stedfastly set, strengthen.
This first term astēriktos only appears in 2 Peter 3:16; and in 2 Peter 2:14. It appears interestingly enough NOWHERE ELSE. Both times it is rendered "unstable" in the NKJV and in almost every other translation I compared. According to the Concordance to the Greek Scriptures it appears only in these two passages; The King James Concordance is also in agreement. The term is not listed in the Concordance to the LXX; the combination simply appears nowhere else. However; if we drop the negative particle G1 (α); and, keep the presumed derivation of G4741 we find 13 appearances in the Greek New Testament; and, another thirty-five (35) appearances in the LXX giving us much more information. Remember friends the negative particle has the duty of rendering a term opposite its meaning. By dropping the negative particle it makes the "unfixed" now "fixed"; or, the "unstable" becomes "stable." Hopefully I haven't lost you at this point and you are able to follow along.
Since Paul didn't have the benefit of using the New Testament when he taught we will be examining the usage; and, appearances in the Greek translation of the Old Testament (LXX). Estimates for the time of Messiah's death and resurrection are between 30-33 A.D. (C.E.) Common Era. The New Testament is vague on exact times because the letters were NOT dated by the author as we would date a letter; or, copy-write something we wrote today. According to www.gty.org (Grace to You) the website of the widely known preacher John McArthur the book of Acts was written in approximately 62 AD (C.E.) some thirty years after Messiah's death; burial; and, resurrection. Follow along with me for a moment. The Testimonies of Matthew; Mark; Luke; John; James the brother of Jesus are thought to have been written in the following time periods:
- Matthew: 50-60 A.D. (CE) Mark: 50-60 A.D. (CE)
- Luke: 60-61A.D. (CE)
- John: 80-90 A.D. (CE)
- Acts: 62 A.D. (CE)
- Galatians: 49-50 A.D. (CE)
- Romans: 56 A.D. (CE)
- James 44-49 A.D. (CE)
The book of Acts is thought to have been written by Luke because of the greeting "The former account I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began to do and teach..." combined with the beginning of Luke where it is clear Luke is writing to Theophilus to:
"write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty
of those things in which you were instructed."
Theophilus would not have been instructed in anything from the New Testament because it simply didn't exist in a widely disseminated format yet. Furthermore there is evidence to suggest this was the High Priest of the Temple in Jerusalem (AD 37-41) Theophilus Ben Annis who was a Cohen and Sadducee. He would have been a brother in law to Caiaphus as the Son of Annis and would have been raised in the Temple. Therefore it CANNOT be the New Testament to what Luke is referencing in his statement about "those things in which you were instructed." For skeptics there was a osuary discovered in Israel bearing the inscription "Johanna granddaughter of Theophilis the High Priest." It was written about in a publication called the Israel Exploration Journal. (D. Barag and D. Flusser, "The Ossuary of Yehohanah Granddaughter of the High Priest Theophilus", Israel Exploration Journal, 36 (1986), 39-44.)
At the time Paul (Saul) was teaching; we see throughout his epistles that he would cite the Torah; Prophets; and writings of the TaNaK heavily. Although Matthew; Mark; and, Luke had been written by then; and, could have been available IF Paul had copies; Paul NEVER in any of his epistles cites the testimonies of Matthew; Mark; Luke; or, John calling them "scripture." Paul DOES cite the four Gospels indirectly when he cites the words of Messiah. We can see in 1 Corinthians 11:23-25 Paul is obviously familiar with the passages dealing with Messiah's reference to himself as the hidden Matzo (which has a beautiful meaning within the context of the Hebrew Passover Seder). See Matthew 26:26-28; Mark 14:22-24; and, Luke 22:19-20. Some attempt to assert that Paul calls Luke "scripture" because of the usage of the following passage in 1 Timothy 5:18:
"For the Scripture says, "You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain," and "The
laborer is worthy of his wages."
There are those who assert Paul is calling Luke 10:7 "Scripture;" except there is the Greek term "kai" (και) which means "and; also; even; so; then; to; likewise; moreover; and a few other terms" separating the too passages. There is no dispute from me that Paul is quoting the Scripture when he says "You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain" which is located in Deuteronomy 25:4. However, in the second half Paul quotes Messiah's statement in Luke 10:7. If Paul considers Luke to be "scripture" why when does he not quote Luke more frequently as the does the writings of the TaNaK? If Paul considered the four testimonies of Matthew; Mark; Luke; and John to be equally relevant to what the Bible defines as Scripture (the TaNaK) why then does He not quote them more; and, why does he not refer to them as "scripture?" Another thing to consider; Paul quotes Messiah in 1 Corinthians 11:23-25 why does he not say "the scripture says" or "it is written" before he quotes Messiah? My observation based on the totality of the evidence; and, not the specific one; or, two verses used to make a flimsy assertion is the following. Paul KNOWS what is scripture; he KNOWS what is reliable testimony; and, he KNOWS apparently what are the words of Messiah were because he quotes them. That tells me Paul had READ or HEARD what Messiah had said; and, done. Friends Paul was aware that Messiah wasn't pointing us to Himself; He was constantly pointing towards Scripture.
Nowhere else does Paul cite any of the New Testament writers; not once; zero; zilch; nada; zippo. What he DOES cite are the Torah; Prophets; and writings of the TaNaK. Nor do the other New Testament writers quote each other; but, rather they quote the TaNaK. Therefore I too will use the TaNaK to understand what makes a man "stable;" established; strengthened; or, set fast.
Of the thirty-five (35) times the word sterizo G4741 appears it is rendered in English as the following "pillars;" "steady;" "stand fast; "set up;" "sure;" "stayed up;" "set;" "established;" "sustained;" "abiding;" "strengthen;" shut;" "stay;" "make;" comfort;" "uphold;" "lean;" and "fall." There are twenty (20) Greek variations of the term "sterizo" which appear in these thirty five (35) passages. These twenty (20) variations are used to translate nine (9) different Hebrew terms. Two of these Hebrew terms appear more frequently than the others in these thirty five (35) passages. These terms are Strong's # H5564 sâmak (סמך) and Strong's # H7760 śûm (שׂוּם).
Out of these thirty-five appearance ONLY ONE is a near exact match to the term 2 Peter 3:16 (αστηρικτοι) and that is found in Psalm 112:8. Turn there if you would:
"His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies."
Here it is in the LXX:
ἐστήρικται ἡ καρδία αὐτοῦ, οὐ μὴ φοβηθῇ, ἕως οὗ ἐπίδῃ ἐπὶ τοὺς ἐχθροὺς αὐτοῦ
And here it is in the HEBREW:
סמוךH5564 established, לבוH3820 His heart לאH3808 he shall not
ייראH3372 be afraid, עדH5704 until אשׁרH834 until
יראהH7200 he see בצריו׃H6862 upon his enemies.
The term which is rendered "established" in English is the Hebrew term Samak. Here is what Strong's says about it:
H5564 (סמך): sâmak saw-mak'. A primitive root; to prop (literally or figuratively); reflexively
to lean upon or take hold of (in a favorable or unfavorable sense): - bear up, establish,
(up-) hold, lay, lean, lie hard, put, rest self, set self, stand fast, stay (self), sustain.
In all fairness we should take a closer look at the Psalm it is enclosed in for more information rather than just the term itself. Turn with me to Psalm 112:1 please and follow along:
Praise the Lord (יהוה)! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord (יהוה), Who delights greatly
in His commandments. 2 His descendants will be mighty on earth; The generation of the upright
will be blessed. 3 Wealth and riches will be in his house, And his righteousness endures
forever. 4 Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness; He is gracious, and full of
compassion, and righteous. 5 A good man deals graciously and lends; He will guide his affairs
with discretion. 6 Surely he will never be shaken; The righteous will be in everlasting
remembrance. 7 He will not be afraid of evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, resting in the
Lord. 8 His heart is established; He will not be afraid, until he sees his desire upon his
enemies. 9 He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures
forever; His horn will be exalted with honor. 10 The wicked will see it and be grieved; He
will gnash his teeth and melt away; the desire of the wicked shall perish."
Friends have you noticed the subject of this Psalm is the person who fears יהוה and delights greatly in His commandments? The term for delights is (חפץ) H2654 châphêts khaw-fates' and means "to incline; to bend; to be pleased with; to delight; desire; and favor among other things. Apparently this person is blessed if they delight greatly in His commandments. The term used is (מצוה) H4687 Mitzvah and means command; law; ordinance; and, is used to refer to the entirety of the Torah collectively. Do you delight greatly in the many mitzvot which make up the Torah?
Another item to take note of is the term "discretion" In Hebrew the term is H4941 (משׁפּט) Mishpat which is one of the terms used to speak of the Law collectively. The man who is upright will guide his affairs with the the instructions of יהוה. This makes sense in light of the earlier part of the passage speaking of delighting in the commandments.
The next items to pay attention to is the use of the term "steadfast." The Hebrew term for "steadfast" in verse 7 is Strong's # H3559 kûn (כּוּן) and means the following:
A primitive root; properly to be erect (that is, stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set
up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix, prepare, apply), or
figurative (appoint, render sure, proper or prosperous): - certain (-ty), confirm, direct,
faithfulness, fashion, fasten, firm, be fitted, be fixed, frame, be meet, ordain, order, perfect,
(make) preparation, prepare (self), provide, make provision, (be, make) ready, right, set
(aright, fast, forth), be stable, (e-) stablish, stand, tarry, X very deed.
This Psalm indicates; as do many others that the upright will be blessed. This term for upright is (ישׁר) H3477 Yashar and it means "straight" (literally and figuratively); convenient, equity, Jasher, just, meet (-est), + pleased well right (-eous), straight, (most) upright (-ly, -ness). Were you aware that the Psalms indicates that יהוה will withold no good thing from those who walk uprightly? (Psalm 84:11). It's probably a good idea if we figure out what it means to walk like that wouldn't you agree? In fact; Psalm 15:1-2 indicates that those who walk uprightly will abide in the tabernacle of יהוה; they will dwell in the mountain of יהוה. Proverbs 2:7 says that יהוה is a shield or "buckler" to "them who walk uprightly." I don't know about you but I would prefer to have יהוה as my shield than men. Proverbs 10:9 indicates that those who walk with "integrity;" (NKJV) while the (KJV) says "uprightly." The NKJV indicates that this person walks "securely;" and the KJV says "surely." The Hebrew term for security/surely is Strong's # H983" (בּטח) betach pronounced "beh'-takh" meaning "a place of refuge;" security; "a feeling of trust;" "safely;" "assurance;" "boldly;" "confidence."
Meanwhile this same proverb (Proverbs 10:9) draws a parallel between those who walk uprightly and those who "perverts his ways." The term for "perverts" is H6140 (עקשׁ) ‛âqash aw-kash'. Here is the Strong's:
A primitive root; to knot or distort; figuratively to pervert (act or declare perverse): - make
crooked, (prove, that is) perverse (-rt).
In 2 Peter 3:16 it indicates those who are "untaught and unstable wrest"; or, "twist" Paul. In other words they twist; make crooked; or "pervert" what the Scriptures say; as well as do the same thing to the words of Paul. Take note that these are NOT those who walk uprightly. Those who walk uprightly desire to DO the Mitzvah; or, commandments of יהוה while those who pervert their ways don't. Elsewhere we are informed in Proverb 15:21 that men of "understanding" will walk uprightly. Do you have understanding? Are you even aware where it originates from? Friends Proverbs 28:18 indicates that "Whoever walks blamelessly (uprightly) will be saved, but he who is perverse in his ways will suddenly fall." We see the term "uprightly" and "upright" used often to describe those who are righteous and just as frequently we see hints about their behavior and how they conduct themselves.
We see as early as the children of Israel being taken from Egypt the desire of יהוה being to establish them; to teach them to walk uprightly. Friends by your adoption into the Nation of Israel by faith in Yeshua the Messiah the only begotten son of יהוה it is your right; and, duty to learn to walk uprightly. I know that some of you will struggle with me calling you an Israelite; primarily because you equate the term "Israel" with "being Jewish." Friends we must think with the end goal in mind. In the end "all Israel shall be saved" (Romans 11:26). To be a Gentile means to be OUTSIDE of the covenant. To borrow a phrase from Jack Burns you are "outside the circle of trust." Nowhere is there an explanation more clear and pronounced than in Ephesians 2:11-13 where it indicates that at the time the Ephesians were considered gentiles they were:
- without [(χωρις : G5565)] Christ
- aliens [(απηλλοτριωμενοι : G526)] from the commonwealth [(πολιτειας : G4174)] of Israel
- strangers [(ξενοι : G3581)] from the covenants of promise
- having no hope
- without God in the world
Within the passage the term "aliens" is used to describe the relationship a Gentile has to the Commonwealth of Israel. The term is (απηλλοτριωμενοι) "apallotrioo" G526 and means to be estranged; to be a non-participant; it's root G245 mean's to be "not one's own; or, hostile." Which is EXACTLY how Muslims who ARE GENTILES in the PUREST sense of the word behave towards the commonwealth of Israel. They do NOT belong to Yeshua; they reject the Father and Son being part of a being that is described as the Father; Son; and Holy Spirit. They are estranged from the commonwealth of Israel. Guess what? So were you and I BEFORE we came to Messiah.
Interestingly enough the term "commonwealth" is G4174 (πολιτειας) "politeia" and it means the following: citizenship; community; commonwealth; and, freedom. FREEDOM. What? Freedom? Friends I assert to you that we are brought OUT of bondage into Freedom. Freedom from what? The bondage of Sin. The Torah is Not bondage; it teaches us how to behave in order that we might ESCAPE THE BONDAGE OF SIN. Another thing; Israel is a community of believers made up of all tongues; tribes; nations; colors; and, ethnicity. It is male and female; young; and old. We my friends ARE citizens of Israel when we accept Messiah; and, his sacrifice for us. We do not replace Israel; we become a part of her. Just as we can become a part of Her; so can those born into Her loose their place by rejecting Messiah; and, the instructions of the God of Abraham Issac and Jacob. His house; his rules. He frees us first because He loves us; then provides us with the rules to stay.
Being called a "stranger" from the "covenants of promise" is no laughing matter. In fact here is what the term means. G3581 (ξενοι) "xenos": foreign; literally an alien; by implication a guest; stranger. Friends guests may come and go in your home; but, they do not have the rights; and, privileges that MEMBERS (citizens) of the family do. They are expected to LEAVE at some point. The don't come to stay permanently. In order to become permanent there has to be some sort of device to make them legally a part of the family; adoption (grafting in) is actually an excellent example. Because both my wife; and, I were adopted as young children into the homes of others this concept makes perfect sense. New house; new rules; in some cases even a new name. Does not God promise to give us a new name?
Isaiah 62:2:
"The Gentiles shall see your righteousness, and all kings your glory. You shall be called by a
new name, which the mouth of the LORD will name."
Revelation 2:17:
"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I
will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone
a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it."
Revelation 3:12:
"He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no
more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New
Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new
name."
We get a new name; and, so does Messiah! Friends it is frightening to consider the next part. Gentiles have no hope. How can I say such a thing? Read Ephesians 2:12. Paul is writing to the Ephesians who were ONCE GENTILES. Friends if you were "once a gentile" then it means you AREN'T ONE ANYMORE!!! I hear Christians all the time saying "I don't have to keep those laws; those are for Jews; I'm a Gentile." No you aren't! You are grafted into Israel by your faith in Messiah. GENTILES HAVE NO COVENANT!!! If you are going to ACT like a Gentile you may find yourself cast out among them in the future! Half of doing what you are supposed to be doing is knowing who you are in the first place; and, unfortunately most Christians don't understand that they are not separate from Israel; we are a part of Her. Ephesians 2:12 says that those without Messiah have no hope. In Greek the mechanical translation would read "hope not having."
The term for "hope" is G1680 (ελπιδα) "elpida;" the root is "elpis" meaning: to anticipate with pleasure; expectation; confidence; faith; hope. The term for "having" is (εχοντες) "echontes;" the root of which is"echo" meaning: to hold; possess; to have; to be closely joined to a person or thing. Friends to be a Gentile means one does not possess hope! They are WITHOUT GOD; separated from Him, by a chasm that cannot be crossed except by way of Messiah.
There is NO covenant with the Gentiles ANYWHERE in the Scripture; NOWHERE! You cannot find even a single explicit passage showing so. There is however the mention of a New Covenant with the house of Israel; and, the house of Judah in Jeremiah 31:31-34 turn there with me:
31 “Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the
house of Israel and with the house of Judah— 32 not according to the covenant that I made with
their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My
covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them, says the Lord. 33 But this is the
covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will
put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they
shall be My people. 34 No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother,
saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of
them, says the Lord. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.”
There was nothing wrong with the original covenant itself. The problem was with the people "which they broke" is an indicator of that. Because of the people this new; or, rather RENEWED Covenant has the instructions in their minds; and, on their hearts. Friends are you unaware that Messiah Himself said the following in Matthew 15:24:
"I have not come EXCEPT for the lost sheep of the house of Israel."
Friends we are grafted into Israel thereby making Yeshua our King; and, fellow brethren; it makes us citizens; not strangers; we now have hope; and, we have an ability to approach יהוה. We are expected to behave as set apart people; holy to יהוה. Turn to Leviticus 26:13 please.
"I am the LORD your God, which brought you out of the land of Egypt, that you should not be
their slaves; I have broken the bands of your yoke and make you walk upright."
The section about being the God which brought you out of Egypt also appears in the "Ten Commandments" as the very first part. He is the God which calls us out of the "house of bondage." The bondage of Israel has always been literal slavery; to men; and, false religious systems. The Torah isn't slavery; it is NEVER called bondage. Sin is bondage my brothers and sisters. You are either a slave to sin; or, a slave to righteousness. Whatever controls you is your master. יהוה has sought to raise up a people who will walk in righteousness; to elevate them above all people; and, then use them to bless all nations. This term used in Leviticus 26:13 for upright is Strong's # H6968 (קוממיּוּת) ko-mem-ee-yooth'. From H6965; elevation, that is, (adverbially) erectly (figuratively): - upright. Its root is even more provocative:
H6965 (קוּם): qûm koom. A primitive root; to rise (in various applications, literally,
figuratively, intensively and causatively): - abide, accomplish, X be clearer, confirm,
continue, decree, X be dim, endure, X enemy, enjoin, get up, make good, help, hold, (help to)
lift up (again), make, X but newly, ordain, perform, pitch, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-)
rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up,
strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure (-ly), (be) up (-hold, -rising).
One of the men in the Bible which is spoken of frequently as being upright is Job. Turn with me to Job 1:1 if you would:
"There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was blameless and
upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil."
Some versions use the term "perfect" instead of blameless. The term used here for blameless is H8535 (תּם) tâm pronounced "tawm." Here is he Strong's definition:
From H8552; complete; usually (morally) pious; specifically gentle, dear: - coupled together,
perfect, plain, undefiled, upright.
We already know that the term upright comes from a word meaning "straight." The Bible indicates that Job shunned evil; and, the term used means to turn off; or away; to depart from; to decline; to put away; or, put down. It also means to withdraw; or, be without. Job wanted nothing to do with what יהוה considered to be evil. He feared יהוה. Do you fear Him? Do you depart from evil? Do you shun what יהוה calls wicked? Three times Job is called upright; and, perfect by יהוה Himself as He is approached by Satan; and, asked to afflict Job. Keep that in the back of your mind friends. יהוה does not do the afflicting; Satan does. He is simply given permission by יהוה to do so.
On a side note one of the 99 names of Allah in the quran is (الضار); "Ad-Darr" meaning
"The Afflictor." This will be important later.
Job 12:4 indicates that Job is a "just" man. The Hebrew term is (צדּיק) H6662 tsaddı̂yq tsad-deek'.
From H6663; just: - just, lawful, righteous (man). H6663 (צדק): tsâdaq tsaw-dak'. A primitive
root; to be (causatively make) right (in a moral or forensic sense): cleanse, clear self, (be, do)
just (-ice, -ify, -ify self), be, turn to) righteous (-ness).
Friends those who are upright ARE just; and, the just ARE upright. We should pay more attention to how the Bible; or, rather "the Scriptures" defines the behavior of the upright; and, just. Remember Paul doesn't fit the definition of "scripture;" his writings are epistles (letters). Do we seek to walk as the just; or, upright do?
Friends I tell you the truth; if we do not have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us it will be IMPOSSIBLE for us to please יהוה. However; when we are the filled with the Holy Spirit; and, are in a relationship with Messiah Yeshua we "can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13; Ephesians 3:16). Including keeping the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of the Torah. Were you unaware of the Psalm 7:10 says? Turn there with me if you would:
"My defense is of God; who saves the upright in heart."
He is our defense; not man. We are instructed in Psalms 11:7 that יהוה is righteous; and, that he loves righteousness. His face gazes upon the upright. I tell you the truth; if we are blessed to be called "upright" we will behold Him with our own eyes. Do you desire to love what He loves; or, to hate what He hates? With our minds focused upon being upright turn with me to Psalms 19:13 please:
"Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless, and I shall be innocent of great transgression."
The term use here for "blameless" is the exact term for "upright." Let's look at this passage first before examining a few before it. The term for "keep back" is H2820 (חשׂך) châśak khaw-sak' and means to restrain; refrain; to refuse; spare; preserve; to hold back. Who does the restraining? I tell you the truth it is not you; or, I that restrains us from sinning; on our own we cannot restrain anything. In English the thing He restrains us from is "presumptuous sin." This term for "sin" is actually absent from the text. The Hebrew term is actually (מזדים) the root of which is H2086 (זד) zêd zade'. Here is what Strong's says about it:
From H2102; arrogant: - presumptuous, proud.
The term "zêd" appears 13 times in the text of the TaNaK and is rendered "proud" most frequently. Interestingly enough the "proud" have a certain behavior. They continually refuse to keep the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה. Many seek to kill; destroy; and, persecute those who do. The root of this term means "to seethe;" "be insolent;" "proud;" "presumptuous." Just in case you aren't clear about what "insolent" means it is defined by Merriam Webster's Dictionary as "rude; or impolite; having; or, showing a lack of respect for other people." The Psalmist is asking יהוה to keep him from pride; to keep it from ruling him. Those who are upright will be innocent from the "great transgression." My friends this is nothing more than the Great Rebellion; or, rather Great Apostasy.
In Hebrew this term for great is (רב) H7227 rab rab meaning "abundant" (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality). It can also mean exceedingly; plenteous; populous; and, many other things. The main thrust is that there are MANY who participate in this "transgression." To my own shame I must admit I have participated in this transgression. In Hebrew the term for "transgression" used here is (מפשׁע) H6588 pesha‛ peh'-shah. Here is what Strong's has to say about it:
From H6586; a revolt (national, moral or religious): - rebellion, sin, transgression,
trespassive.
The root of this term is so provocative that I cannot pass up the opportunity to present it to you. Here is what Strong's says:
H6586 (פּשׁע) pâsha‛ paw-shah'. A primitive root (rather identical with H6585 through the
idea of expansion); to break away (from just authority), that is, trespass, apostatize, quarrel:
offend, rebel, revolt, transgress (-ion, -or).
Need I convince you more about the apostasy? It is a rebellion against the statutes; commandments; judgments; ordinances; and testimonies of יהוה. It is a revolt against His authority. It is breaking away from the instructions given to His people by His servant Moses; and the Prophets; and by Messiah Himself.
Today's ruling (Friday June 26th, 2015) by the Supreme Court of the United States; to say that Homosexual marriage is legal in all 50 states is NOT the Great Apostasy. The Apostasy has been going on for a great deal of time now. However; the decision IS a symptom; and, evidence of it. The Great Apostasy has been growing; as the world travels full speed ahead towards destruction. Israel has been attempting to pull away from obedience for centuries. Man has been at WAR with יהוה because he chooses to be disobedient. Within the confines of what SHOULD be a house of obedience there is disobedience. This rebellion encompasses ALL of Modern day Judaism; ALL of Modern day Christianity; and ALL other religions across the globe.
Mankind is rapidly accelerating its taste for all things which are extravagantly depraved; and, exceedingly wicked. What was once taboo; the scandalously perverse; repulsive; and, disgustingly arrogant; shameful beyond all measure is now available on pay-per-view; or, located with a few keystrokes on a laptop as mankind proudly shakes its fist at the creator telling Him WE DON'T WANT TO BE GOVERNED BY YOU.
The response of יהוה will be to allow wicked men; or women, to rule nations. He will allow those who are remarkably more wicked; and, depraved to come against us just as He allowed the Chaldeans to come and wage war against the Children of Israel living in the land in ancient times. Just as we see those living in the land of Israel being attacked almost daily from the South; and the North; and the East; and the West; and, even from within; so shall America have her own tribulation.
Our enemies know the hand of יהוה has been removed; and, they smell blood in the water. Be prepared for the children of Ishmael will seek your life. Do not be surprised when those who call themselves "Christians" who are actually in rebellion against Torah persecute you also. Some will see; and; hear bringing them to repentance.
If you take the name "Christian" I remind you that a Christian is "Christ-like" and that "every servant who is perfectly trained becomes like his master" (Luke 6:40). Do you walk as your master; or, do you follow a "law-less" Messiah? Many will speak arrogantly against us; and, many will behave in a manner that is vile; and, despicable for those who call themselves servants of יהוה. Not all of them will behave this way; but many will. Expect friction from those within the house of Judah as well as they reject you; and, refuse to recognize whom you actually serve.
"You will be hated by all for My name's sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved."
(Matthew 10:22;) See also Psalm 29:27
Turn with me to Psalm 19:7 as we work our way toward Psalm 19:13 shall we? (CLUE)
"The law of the LORD (יהוה) is perfect, converting the soul; the testimony of the LORD
(יהוה) is sure, making wise the simple; the statutes of the LORD (יהוה) are right, rejoicing
the heart; the commandment of the LORD (יהוה) is pure, enlightening the eyes; the Fear of the
LORD (יהוה) is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the LORD (יהוה) are true and
righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; sweeter
also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them Your servant is warned, and in keeping
them there is great reward. Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults."
Friends there are clues here. The Torah is what converts us. Messiah Himself SAID we MUST be converted (Matthew 18:3). He also spoke of those who He DIDN'T want to be converted lest He would heal them (Matthew 13:15; Mark 4:12; John 12:40; and Acts 28:27). In Acts we are instructed that repentance is tied to this conversion (Acts 3:19). We are told in Psalms 25:8 that יהוה is both good; and, upright. Because of this יהוה Himself teaches sinners the way. Beloved there is a right way; and, a wrong way. There is a way of righteousness; and, a way of wickedness. A pathway that is clean; and, another which is unclean. יהוה gives us a choice whether to walk as those who are Holy walk; or, to walk as those who are profane. The term for way in Hebrew is (דּרך) derek daw-rak meaning "a road; a course of life; or, mode of action; manner. Friends Messiah Himself walked in the Way of יהוה. Turn with me now to Psalms 94:12-15 if you would:
"Blessed is the man whom You instruct, O LORD (יהוה) , and teach out of Your law, that you
may give him rest from the days of adversity, until the pit is dug for the wicked. For the
LORD (יהוה) will not cast off His people, nor will He forsake His inheritance. But judgment
will return to righteousness, and all the upright in heart will follow it."
Friends are you aware that יהוה calls Israel "My People" over 82 times in the Bible? He IS the God of Israel! Somehow this is LOST on Christians who believe they are SEPARATE from Israel. They are blind; many of them to WHO THEY ARE!!! My people (Israel) perish for lack of knowledge. Friends we don't replace Israel; we become part of Her. Don't be troubled by your older brother who refuses to recognize you. יהוה will deal with them in His own timing. Friends are you willing to return to righteousness? Have you been instructed by יהוה from out of His Torah?
In the beginning of the chapter we were looking at the terms used to mean "unstable." We learned it was a contraction of two words. One term (sterizo) meaning "stability;" and, a negative participle. Of the two terms that appeared the most to translate the Greek term sterizo was "samak" we also learned it was connected to keeping the commandments; statutes; judgments; ordinances; and, testimonies of יהוה. Come with me now as we look at the Hebrew term for "truth" and round off the importance and source of stability.
I, too, left Calvary Chapel when my eyes were opened to Torah. Being from southern CA, I sat under teachings of Macintosh, Laurie, Coy, and similar. While I'm thankful for the overall foundation to seek truth, laying all down, I'm heartbroken over their animosity toward Torah. I don't know any others who have left CCs. It is a blessing to have come across your site! Blessings and shalom to you and yours!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your kind words Kimberly
DeleteMost of those who my wife and I were friends with no longer speak to us. One whom I used to spend time with regularly accused me of "falling from grace" and of being in a cult. When the real estate market tanked and my business crumbled he told me I was worse than a heathen because I didn't "provide for my family" taking a new Testament passage and twisting it out of context. Oh how my heart broke for those who are blind and cannot see. Even a close family member told me I had a barren branch of persuasion towards Judaism then telling me that what is twisted cannot be made straight.
ReplyDelete