Then I heard another voice from heaven shout, “My people, you must escape from Babylon. Don't take part in her sins and share her punishment.”
~ Revelation 18:4 (Contemporary English Version) ~
Are you feeling the call of our Father in Heaven to follow the example of the Saviour and keep the Commandments found in Torah?
You are definitely in the right place to start such a journey!
Our goal with this information is to challenge a common error held dearly by many (if not most) people who call themselves Mormons or Christians…
They firmly believe that because Yeshua (Jesus) obeyed all of God's laws perfectly, these instructions for righteous living are not for us any more, that somehow they were “done away with” or that they are no longer “for our good always” like Yahweh told us in they were when He gave them in the book of Deuteronomy 6:24 “And the Lord commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the Lord our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day.” (Emphasis added)
OK, but what about the Blood? Or the curses? Wait! How about the Sacrifices??
I hear you, there are simple answers (well maybe not simple, but short anyway) to this question.
Curses were given for correction and punishment of those people who were unwilling to be corrected.
Sacrifices are just outward symbols pointing to the sacrifice of Yeshua and our continued sacrifice of the “broken and contrite heart.” This is representative of our true repentance, and is now available to all because of the atonement! Give praise unto Adonai and fall down in prayer and thanksgiving, for He has given us a clear path to return to Him!
If we are sincerely trying to imitate our Saviour and Messiah, why do we, as His followers, appear to neglect five rather important things that Yeshua Himself did regularly?
Sabbath Day
Unclean Foods
Holy Days
Tzitzit
House of Israel
Why Worship on the Sabbath (Saturday) Matters: A Biblical Perspective
Introduction
The Sabbath, established by God at creation and reaffirmed throughout Scripture, is a day set apart for rest and worship. While many Christians today observe Sunday as their primary day of worship, the Bible consistently identifies the seventh day—Saturday—as the true Sabbath. Understanding the significance of the Sabbath and its distinction from Sunday worship is essential for those who seek to align their lives with God’s commandments.
The Biblical Sabbath: God’s Appointed Day of Rest
The Sabbath is first introduced in Genesis 2:2-3, where God rested on the seventh day, blessed it, and made it holy. It is later codified in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:8-11) as a perpetual covenant for God’s people.
Key Features of the Sabbath:
A Day of Rest: Ceasing from labour to focus on God and spiritual renewal.
A Holy Convocation: A time for communal worship and reflection (Leviticus 23:3).
A Sign of the Covenant: A perpetual reminder of God’s relationship with His people (Exodus 31:16-17).
Sunday Worship: A Human Tradition
The shift from Sabbath (Saturday) to Sunday worship is not rooted in Scripture but in historical developments. By the fourth century, Sunday observance was institutionalized within the Roman Empire, influenced by Constantine’s edicts and efforts to distinguish Christianity from Judaism.
Key Historical Factors:
Sun Worship Influence: Sunday was the day of the sun in Roman paganism, making it a convenient day for Christian worship in a predominantly pagan society.
Anti-Jewish Sentiment: Early church leaders sought to distance Christianity from Jewish practices, including Sabbath observance.
Church Authority: The Roman Catholic Church claimed the authority to change the day of worship, asserting Sunday as the new “Lord’s Day.”
Key Differences Between Sabbath and Sunday Worship
Divine Command vs. Human Tradition
Sabbath: Instituted by God in the Torah and affirmed by Jesus and the apostles.
Sunday: Established by church leaders centuries after the Bible was written.
Biblical Consistency vs. Historical Change
Sabbath: Consistently observed by God’s people, including Jesus and the apostles.
Sunday: Introduced later as a departure from biblical precedent.
Spiritual Purpose vs. Cultural Adaptation
Sabbath: A day for rest, worship, and alignment with God’s creation order.
Sunday: Adopted for convenience and cultural conformity.
Refuting Common Arguments for Sunday Worship
"The resurrection occurred on Sunday, making it the new day of worship."
Refutation: While Jesus rose on the first day of the week, there is no biblical command to replace the Sabbath with Sunday. The apostles continued to observe the Sabbath after the resurrection (Acts 13:14, 17:2).
"The early church met on Sunday."
Refutation: References to gatherings on the first day of the week (e.g., Acts 20:7, 1 Corinthians 16:2) often pertain to practical matters, not a replacement of the Sabbath. These meetings were likely held after the Sabbath had ended.
"We are no longer under the law."
Refutation: Jesus affirmed the enduring relevance of the Torah (Matthew 5:17-19). Observing the Sabbath is not about legalism, but about honouring God’s design for rest and worship.
"Every day is holy, so the Sabbath is unnecessary."
Refutation: While believers are called to live holy lives daily, the Sabbath is uniquely sanctified by God and set apart as a specific day for rest and worship (Genesis 2:3).
The Spiritual Benefits of Sabbath Worship
Alignment with God’s Commandments
Observing the Sabbath reflects obedience to God’s Word and His eternal covenant.
Spiritual Rest and Renewal
The Sabbath provides a dedicated time to cease from labour, focus on God, and rejuvenate spiritually.
Connection with God’s Creation Order
Honouring the seventh day acknowledges God’s role as Creator and Sustainer.
A Distinctive Witness
Worshipping on the Sabbath sets believers apart, demonstrating faithfulness to God’s instructions.
Practical Steps to Transition to Sabbath Worship
Study the Scriptures: Read passages about the Sabbath in Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, and the New Testament.
Evaluate Current Practices: Reflect on the origins and purpose of Sunday worship.
Begin Observing the Sabbath: Dedicate Saturday to rest, worship, and spiritual growth.
Join a Sabbath-Keeping Community: Connect with others who honour the biblical Sabbath for fellowship and support.
Considerations:
The Sabbath is God’s appointed day for rest and worship, rooted in creation and affirmed throughout Scripture. While Sunday worship has become a widespread tradition, it lacks biblical authority and diverts from God’s original design. Choosing to honour the Sabbath is a step toward living in obedience to God’s Word and experiencing the fullness of His blessings.
Are you ready to embrace Sabbath worship? Explore our resources and connect with a community dedicated to honouring God’s holy day.
Why Keeping Kosher Matters: A Torah Perspective
Introduction
The dietary laws outlined in the Torah, known as Kashrut, are more than a set of restrictions—they are a divine blueprint for living a holy and disciplined life. While some Christians argue that these laws are no longer relevant, a closer examination of Scripture reveals that keeping Kosher remains a vital practice for those who seek to honour God’s commandments.
The Torah provides clear instructions regarding which foods are permissible and how they should be prepared (Leviticus 11, Deuteronomy 14). These laws reflect God’s desire for His people to live distinct and holy lives.
Key principles include:
Permissible Animals: Land animals must have split hooves and chew cud. Sea creatures must have fins and scales.
Prohibited Animals: Scavengers, shellfish, and predatory birds are forbidden.
Preparation: Meat must be properly drained of blood, symbolizing respect for life.
Separation: The prohibition of mixing meat and dairy emphasizes spiritual boundaries and intentional living.
Refuting Common Arguments Against Kashrut
"Jesus declared all foods clean." (Mark 7:19)
Refutation: This passage is often misunderstood. The context of Mark 7 is about ritual handwashing, not dietary laws. Jesus was addressing traditions of men, not overturning God’s commandments. Additionally, the phrase “declared all foods clean” is a later editorial addition not found in the original Greek manuscripts.
"Peter’s vision in Acts 10 means we can eat anything."
Refutation: Peter’s vision of unclean animals was not about food but about God’s acceptance of Gentiles. Peter himself clarifies the vision’s meaning in Acts 10:28: “God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean.” The vision symbolizes breaking down barriers between Jews and Gentiles, not abolishing dietary laws.
"The dietary laws were only for Israel."
Refutation: The dietary laws were given to Israel as a model for holy living, but they reflect universal principles. The distinction between clean and unclean animals predates Israel, as seen in Noah’s time (Genesis 7:2). Believers, as grafted branches into the olive tree of Israel (Romans 11:17-24), are called to adopt the ways of God’s people.
"We are under grace, not the law." (Romans 6:14)
Refutation: Grace does not nullify God’s commandments. Paul himself states in Romans 3:31, “Do we then overthrow the law by this faith? By no means! On the contrary, we uphold the law.” Observing Kashrut is not about earning salvation but about living in obedience to God’s will.
"It’s not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person." (Matthew 15:11)
Refutation: Jesus’ statement addresses the Pharisees’ focus on external rituals, not the Torah’s dietary laws. He emphasizes inner purity but does not dismiss the importance of obedience to God’s commandments.
The Spiritual Significance of Kashrut
Holiness in Action
Keeping Kosher sanctifies everyday actions, transforming eating into an act of worship.
Obedience to God
Observing dietary laws reflects trust in God’s wisdom, even when the reasons are not immediately clear.
Identity and Covenant
Keeping Kosher sets believers apart as part of God’s holy people, living in alignment with His covenant.
Health and Ethical Considerations
While the primary purpose of Kashrut is spiritual, the dietary laws also promote physical well-being:
Avoiding scavengers reduces exposure to toxins and diseases.
Humane slaughter practices respect animal life.
A Kosher diet encourages mindful eating and ethical food choices.
Practical Steps to Begin Keeping Kosher
Learn the Torah’s Dietary Laws: Study Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14.
Make Gradual Changes: Begin by eliminating unclean foods from your diet.
Seek Community Support: Connect with others who observe Kashrut for guidance and encouragement.
Be Intentional: Approach each meal with gratitude and reflection on its spiritual significance.
Considerations:
Keeping kosher is a timeless practice that honours God’s commandments and fosters holiness. While some argue against its necessity, Scripture consistently affirms the enduring relevance of these laws for all who seek to live according to God’s will.
Are you ready to learn more about or to embrace a Kosher lifestyle? Explore our resources and join a community dedicated to walking in obedience to God’s Word.
God's Holy Days vs. Man's Holidays: A Biblical Perspective
Introduction
The Bible outlines specific holy days ordained by God, rich in spiritual meaning and designed to draw believers closer to Him. In contrast, many man-made holidays have become central to modern culture, often prioritizing tradition and consumerism over divine purpose. Understanding the distinction between God’s holy days and man’s holidays is crucial for those seeking to align their lives with God’s will.
God’s Holy Days: Divine Appointments
The holy days outlined in the Torah are referred to as "moedim," or appointed times, and are detailed in Leviticus 23. These festivals are God’s designated times for worship, reflection, and celebration.
Key Holy Days Include:
Sabbath (Shabbat): A weekly day of rest and spiritual renewal.
Passover (Pesach): Commemorates the Israelites’ deliverance from Egypt and foreshadows redemption through the Messiah.
Feast of Unleavened Bread: Symbolizes the removal of sin and living a holy life.
Feast of Firstfruits: Celebrates the first harvest and resurrection hope.
Feast of Weeks (Shavuot): Marks the giving of the Torah and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah): A call to repentance and preparation for God’s judgment.
Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur): A solemn day of fasting and reconciliation with God.
Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot): Celebrates God’s provision and looks forward to His dwelling with humanity.
Man’s Holidays: Human Traditions
Man-made holidays, while often well-intentioned, are not commanded by God and frequently lack biblical foundation. Many have origins in pagan practices or have been heavily commercialized.
Examples of Popular Holidays:
Christmas: Celebrated as the birth of Jesus, yet rooted in pagan winter solstice festivals.
Easter: Associated with the resurrection of Jesus but incorporates symbols like eggs and rabbits from fertility rites.
Halloween: Originates from pagan harvest and ancestor veneration rituals.
Valentine’s Day: Rooted in Roman festivals celebrating love and fertility.
Key Differences Between Holy Days and Holidays
Source of Authority
Holy Days: Commanded by God in Scripture and tied to His covenant with His people.
Holidays: Established by human tradition, often blending cultural or pagan practices.
Purpose and Focus
Holy Days: Centred on worship, spiritual reflection, and God’s redemptive plan.
Holidays: Frequently focused on personal enjoyment, cultural norms, and materialism.
Eternal vs. Temporal Significance
Holy Days: Timeless and prophetic, pointing to God’s ultimate plan for humanity.
Holidays: Temporal and culturally specific, often lacking lasting spiritual value.
Refuting Common Arguments for Man’s Holidays
"Holidays like Christmas and Easter honour Jesus."
Refutation: While the intent may be to honour Jesus, these holidays incorporate traditions and symbols not rooted in Scripture. God explicitly warns against adopting pagan practices in worship (Deuteronomy 12:30-31).
"Celebrating holidays is harmless fun."
Refutation: While celebration itself is not wrong, believers are called to worship God in spirit and truth (John 4:24). Aligning with practices that contradict biblical principles can dilute the faith’s purity.
"God doesn’t care how we celebrate as long as our hearts are sincere."
Refutation: Sincerity alone is not enough. God requires obedience (1 Samuel 15:22) and has provided clear instructions for worship through His holy days.
The Spiritual Benefits of Observing God’s Holy Days
Deeper Connection with God
Observing God’s appointed times fosters a closer relationship with Him by aligning our lives with His calendar.
Understanding God’s Plan
The holy days reveal God’s redemptive plan, from creation to the Messiah’s return.
A Distinctive Identity
Keeping God’s holy days sets believers apart as His people, fulfilling the call to be holy.
Practical Steps to Transition from Holidays to Holy Days
Study the Bible: Learn about the moedim in Leviticus 23 and their spiritual significance.
Evaluate Current Practices: Reflect on the origins and purposes of holidays you observe.
Start Small: Begin by honouring one of God’s holy days, such as the Sabbath.
Seek Community: Join others who observe God’s holy days for support and guidance.
Considerations:
God’s holy days are divine appointments that offer spiritual depth, prophetic insight, and a closer walk with Him. While man-made holidays may be culturally significant, they often distract from the eternal truths found in Scripture. Choosing to observe God’s holy days over human traditions is a step toward living in obedience and alignment with His will.
Are you ready to embrace God’s appointed times? Discover resources and a supportive community to guide you on this transformative journey.
The Necessity of Wearing Tzitzit: A Biblical Perspective for Christians
Introduction
Tzitzit, the fringes worn on the corners of garments, are a tangible reminder of God’s commandments and a symbol of devotion. While often associated with Jewish practice, the instruction to wear tzitzit (Numbers 15:37-41) carries profound significance for all who seek to follow God’s Word. For Christians, wearing tzitzit can serve as a meaningful expression of faith and obedience.
The Biblical Command to Wear Tzitzit
The command to wear tzitzit is found in the Torah, where God instructs His people to place fringes on the corners of their garments:
"Speak to the people of Israel and tell them to make tassels on the corners of their garments throughout their generations, and to put a cord of blue on the tassel of each corner." (Numbers 15:38)
Purpose of Tzitzit:
Reminder of God’s Commandments: To keep His laws at the forefront of daily life.
Visual Symbol of Holiness: To set believers apart as God’s people.
Call to Obedience: To avoid straying into sin and live according to God’s ways.
Why Christians Should Consider Wearing Tzitzit
Affirmation of God’s Law
Jesus affirmed the Torah, stating, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfil them” (Matthew 5:17). Wearing tzitzit aligns with the Messiah’s teachings and demonstrates a commitment to God’s commandments.
Connection to Jesus (Yeshua)
The Gospels mention that people sought healing by touching the hem of Jesus’ garment (Matthew 9:20-22, Mark 6:56). This “hem” likely referred to the tzitzit, underscoring their significance in His life and ministry.
A Visible Testimony
Tzitzit serve as a public declaration of faith and a reminder to live according to God’s Word, offering a powerful witness to others.
Spiritual Discipline
Wearing tzitzit encourages mindfulness of God’s presence and His commandments throughout the day.
Refuting Common Arguments Against Wearing Tzitzit
"Tzitzit are only for Jews."
Refutation: The command to wear tzitzit is addressed to all of God’s people. Christians, as grafted branches into the olive tree of Israel (Romans 11:17-24), share in the covenant and its obligations.
"We are under grace, not the law."
Refutation: Grace does not nullify God’s commandments. Paul writes, “Do we then overthrow the law by this faith? By no means! On the contrary, we uphold the law” (Romans 3:31). Wearing tzitzit is an act of faith and obedience, not legalism.
"Tzitzit are irrelevant in modern times."
Refutation: God’s Word is eternal and unchanging (Isaiah 40:8). The principles behind tzitzit—remembering God’s commandments and living a holy life—are timeless.
"It’s just an external practice."
Refutation: While tzitzit are outward, their purpose is deeply spiritual. They serve as a physical reminder to internalize and live out God’s commandments.
The Spiritual Benefits of Wearing Tzitzit
Daily Reminder of God’s Commandments
Tzitzit help keep God’s Word central in everyday decisions and actions.
Strengthened Faith
Wearing tzitzit reinforces a sense of identity and connection to God’s covenant.
Opportunity for Witnessing
Tzitzit can prompt conversations about faith and inspire others to explore God’s commandments.
Alignment with God’s Word
This practice reflects a commitment to live in accordance with Scripture, fostering spiritual growth and discipline.
Practical Steps to Begin Wearing Tzitzit
Understand the Commandment: Study Numbers 15:37-41 and Deuteronomy 22:12 to grasp the biblical basis for tzitzit.
Choose Appropriate Garments: Attach tzitzit to clothing with four corners, or use a tallit katan (small prayer shawl).
Incorporate Tzitzit into Daily Life: Wear them as a reminder of your commitment to God’s commandments.
Explain Their Significance: Be prepared to share the spiritual meaning of tzitzit with others.
Considerations:
Wearing tzitzit is a biblical practice that transcends cultural boundaries, offering a profound way to honour God’s commandments and deepen one’s faith. For Christians, this practice connects to the life and teachings of Jesus, serving as a daily reminder of God’s presence and guidance.
Are you finding yourself ready to embrace this ancient yet timeless commandment? Explore our resources and join a community of believers committed to living according to God’s Word.
The House of Israel: Natural Israel and Spiritual Israel (Christians)
Introduction
The concept of the "House of Israel" encompasses both natural Israel (the physical descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob) and spiritual Israel (those who are grafted into the covenant through faith in Jesus Christ). This unified understanding of Israel is central to the biblical narrative, revealing God’s ongoing covenant with His people and the expansion of His promises to include all believers, both Jew and Gentile. Understanding the relationship between natural Israel and spiritual Israel helps clarify God’s redemptive plan for humanity.
Natural Israel: The Physical Descendants of Abraham
Natural Israel refers to the descendants of the twelve tribes of Israel, the direct lineage of Abraham through Isaac and Jacob (whose name was changed to Israel). These physical descendants were chosen by God to be His covenant people, and their history is foundational to understanding God’s dealings with humanity.
Key Aspects of Natural Israel:
The Covenant with Abraham: God made an everlasting covenant with Abraham and his descendants, promising them the land of Canaan and making them a great nation (Genesis 17:7-8).
The Law of Moses: The Israelites were given the Torah as a guide for living in covenant with God, including the commandments and the sacrificial system.
The Promises to the Patriarchs: The blessings and promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob continue to be relevant for their descendants (Romans 9:4-5).
Spiritual Israel: The Believers in Jesus Christ
Spiritual Israel refers to those who, through faith in Jesus Christ, are grafted into the promises and covenants made with Israel. This includes Gentile believers who are adopted into the family of God and share in the spiritual inheritance of Israel.
Key Aspects of Spiritual Israel:
Grafted into the Olive Tree: In Romans 11:17-24, Paul explains that Gentile believers are grafted into the olive tree of Israel, sharing in the blessings and promises originally given to the Jewish people.
The New Covenant: Through Jesus, believers are brought into a new covenant, which fulfils and extends the promises of the old covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34).
One New Man in Christ: Ephesians 2:14-16 teaches that through Jesus’ sacrifice, the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile has been broken down, creating one unified body of believers, or spiritual Israel.
The Unity of Natural Israel and Spiritual Israel
God’s redemptive plan includes both natural Israel and spiritual Israel, and they are not separate or competing entities but are unified in God’s purpose. The Scriptures teach that the promises made to Israel are not nullified but are expanded to include all who are in Christ.
Key Scriptures Highlighting the Unity:
Romans 9-11: Paul explains that natural Israel has a continuing role in God’s plan and that Gentile believers are part of the same spiritual family. He warns against arrogance and emphasizes that both groups are part of the same olive tree.
Galatians 3:28-29: Paul declares that in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Greek, but all are one. Those who belong to Christ are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise.
Ephesians 2:19-22: Believers are described as fellow citizens with Israel and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus as the cornerstone.
Refuting Common Misunderstandings
"The Church has replaced Israel."
Refutation: The Bible does not teach replacement theology. Instead, it emphasizes that Gentile believers are grafted into Israel, becoming part of the same covenant promises. The Church is not a replacement for Israel, but an extension of God's plan that includes both Jew and Gentile.
"The promises to Israel are only for Jews."
Refutation: While the promises were first given to natural Israel, they are now extended to all believers in Christ. The Bible teaches that Gentiles who believe in Jesus are part of the spiritual Israel and share in the same promises (Romans 9:8, Galatians 3:29).
"Natural Israel no longer has a role in God’s plan."
Refutation: Romans 11 clearly teaches that natural Israel has not been rejected by God. While many have not accepted the Messiah, God has a plan for the restoration of Israel in the last days. Natural Israel still has a role in God's redemptive history, and the promises made to the patriarchs remain intact.
The Spiritual Benefits of Understanding the House of Israel
A Deeper Understanding of God’s Plan
Recognizing the unity of natural and spiritual Israel helps believers understand the fullness of God’s redemptive plan for humanity, from the promises made to Abraham to the fulfilment of those promises in Jesus.
Unity in Christ
Understanding that both Jews and Gentiles are part of one family in Christ fosters unity and reconciliation between believers, breaking down divisions based on ethnicity or heritage.
Living in the Blessings of the Covenant
As part of spiritual Israel, believers are heirs to the promises of God and can live in the blessings of the covenant, including the hope of eternal life and participation in God’s kingdom.
Practical Steps to Embrace the Fullness of Israel’s Role
Study the Scriptures: Delve into passages like Romans 9-11, Galatians 3:28-29, and Ephesians 2:19-22 to understand the relationship between natural Israel and spiritual Israel.
Pray for Israel: Intercede for the salvation of the Jewish people and for the fulfilment of God’s promises to Israel.
Celebrate the Jewish Roots of the Faith: Embrace the rich heritage of the faith by understanding and honouring the Jewish roots of Christianity, including the feasts and customs that point to Jesus.
Live in Unity: Seek unity with fellow believers, both Jew and Gentile, recognizing that all who are in Christ are part of the same family of God.
The House of Israel consists of both natural Israel (the physical descendants of Abraham) and spiritual Israel (believers in Jesus Christ). Both are integral to God’s redemptive plan, and the promises made to Israel are extended to all who are in Christ. By understanding the unity of natural and spiritual Israel, Christians can deepen their faith, embrace their identity in God’s covenant, and participate in His eternal purposes.
Are you ready to explore your place in the House of Israel? Study the Scriptures, connect with fellow believers, and live out the blessings of being part of God’s covenant family.