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History’s Echo: Unraveling the Cyclical Saga of Human Nature

This topic delves into the profound patterns of human behavior and history that repeat across generations, illuminated by the cyclical narratives found in Judges Chapter 1 and throughout the Book of Judges. This topic beckons us to explore the recurring themes of struggle, failure, redemption, and the constant interplay between divine guidance and human free will, offering insights into the essence of human nature and the lessons history persistently seeks to teach us.

Judges Chapter 1 sets the stage for a cycle that characterizes the entire book: a sequence of disobedience, defeat, repentance, and deliverance, revealing a deep truth about human nature. Despite witnessing miraculous victories and divine interventions, the Israelites repeatedly fall into patterns of forgetfulness and rebellion. This cyclical pattern is not unique to the ancient world but mirrors the repetitive cycles we see in our personal lives and the broader scope of human history.

“History’s Echo” invites us to reflect on how these cycles manifest in our own era. It prompts us to ask: Why do we, both as individuals and as societies, seem doomed to repeat the mistakes of the past? How do our collective forgetfulness and recurring failings speak to the core challenges of human nature? This reflection encourages us to consider the ways in which our present is shaped by the echoes of past decisions and behaviors, urging us to break free from destructive cycles through awareness, learning, and intentional action.

Moreover, this topic challenges us to explore the role of memory and storytelling in preserving the lessons of the past. Just as the Book of Judges serves as a historical and moral compass for future generations, our own stories and histories carry the potential to enlighten and guide. By examining the cycles of history, we can identify the points at which we have the power to choose a different path, alter the narrative, and forge a future that learns from the past rather than repeating it.

“History’s Echo” is a call to conscious evolution. It asks us to acknowledge the patterns of human behavior that bind us to a cyclical past and to embrace the possibility of breaking these cycles through collective wisdom, compassion, and transformative action. By understanding the dynamics of our nature and the lessons history offers, we can aspire to a future that reflects not the echoes of our failures but the harmonious rhythm of our growth and potential.

As we engage with the cyclical saga of human nature, let us be inspired to contribute to a narrative of change, one that honors the lessons of the past while paving the way for a future defined by enlightenment, harmony, and the fulfillment of humanity’s highest aspirations.

This chapter sets the stage for the cyclical pattern of obedience, disobedience, and redemption that characterizes the entire Book of Judges. How does this cycle reflect human nature and societal patterns? What can we learn from this repetitive cycle about breaking our own patterns of behavior that lead to negative outcomes?

Believe it or not, humanity goes through this cycle and the same pattern we see in the book of Judges, even today. The faster you see that and break the chain of events the wiser you are.

Many tribes in this chapter were unable to fully drive out the inhabitants of their allotted territories, leading to cohabitation with those they were supposed to displace. How do partial victories and incomplete tasks affect our personal and collective goals? What are the long-term consequences of settling for less than what we have set out to achieve?

Now, we see the consequences of this failure even today, isn’t it? Sadly we are falling into more deeper ditch with every passing of time. It will be difficult if not impossible to find peace in the Middle East until the Prince of Peace arrives on the scene.

The Middle Ground Myth: Navigating the Temptations of Compromise

This topic delves into the complex terrain of moral and ethical compromise, exploring how the allure of finding a middle ground can often lead us away from our core principles and values. This theme, illustrated through the narrative lens of Judges Chapter 1, serves as a profound reminder of the consequences when compromises lead to half-measures and incomplete victories.

In Judges Chapter 1, the Israelites face the monumental task of conquering the Promised Land, a mission fraught with both physical and spiritual battles. The chapter details various tribes’ attempts to claim their territories, with many unable to fully drive out the land’s previous inhabitants. These incomplete victories highlight a pivotal spiritual dilemma: the temptation to compromise with the world around us, settling for a middle ground that ultimately undermines our purpose and integrity.

This narrative beckons us to consider our own lives. How often do we seek the comfort of compromise, hoping to maintain peace or avoid conflict, only to find that we’ve strayed from our path? The Middle Ground Myth confronts us with the truth that compromise, especially when it involves our values and beliefs, often leads to outcomes that satisfy no one fully and dilute our intentions.

Navigating the temptations of compromise requires a discerning heart and a courageous spirit. It demands that we ask ourselves difficult questions about what we stand for and where we draw the line. It calls for a steadfast commitment to our principles, even when the path is lonely and the choices are hard. The challenges faced by the Israelites remind us that the consequences of compromise extend beyond the immediate, affecting not just our present but shaping our legacy.

Yet, “The Middle Ground Myth” is not a call to rigid inflexibility. Instead, it invites us to a higher form of discernment, where the decisions we make are guided by a deep understanding of our values and the courage to live by them. It encourages us to find strength in our convictions, to act with integrity, and to face the complexities of life with a clear vision of who we are and what we believe.

As we reflect on the lessons from Judges Chapter 1, let us embrace the challenge to navigate the temptations of compromise with wisdom and courage. Let us be inspired to pursue a path aligned with our deepest truths, knowing that true peace and fulfillment come not from finding a middle ground but from living with uncompromising integrity.

Judges Chapter 1 portrays a series of victories and failures, including instances where the Israelites made compromises with the existing inhabitants of the land. How do we navigate the moral ambiguities and compromises in our own lives? Are there circumstances where compromise is necessary, or does it always lead to a dilution of purpose and values?

God is warning us against leading a compromised life. We compromise we lose.

Belief in Motion: Why Faith Demands More than Words?

A Message from Judges Chapter 1

Today, we are going to consider Judges Chapter 1 for our discussion. I would like for us to consider three important questions as part of our discussion.

Question One, “Belief in Motion: Why Faith Demands More than Words“.

Question two, “The Middle Ground Myth: Navigating the Temptations of Compromise“.

And finally question Three, “History’s Echo: Unraveling the Cyclical Saga of Human Nature“.

Today will discuss the first question, “Belief in Motion: Why Faith Demands More than Words”. “Belief in Motion: Why Faith Demands More than Words” dives into the essence of true faith, as exemplified in the narrative of Judges Chapter 1, illustrating that faith is not merely a matter of professing belief but requires action to bring about tangible change in the world.

Before I get into discussing this topic, I wanted to highlight one point. If there is one book that is relevant to our day and age today, it is the book of Judges. Not only is the book of Judges one of the lesser-read books in the Bible, but it is also one of the most misunderstood.

It is often misunderstood maybe you haven’t taken the time to study it, or maybe too much bloodshed and is not very appealing to people to teach on a Sunday morning for example.

Nevertheless, the Book of Judges is important to study. Because there are so many comparisons that can be made between Judges and the apostasy we see happening in Christendom all around the world today.

The first thing you need to know is that once we enter into the Book of Judges, we are entering a period when Israel rapidly descended into big-time apostasy. It’s a sad story of a deluded people who thought they were being completely faithful to God but the opposite was true because they continued to pursue peace with their pagan neighbors.

The children of Israel fell away from God because they didn’t want to ruffle any feathers with their pagan neighbours. Israel vigorously pursued peace but it was not a peace ordained by the Lord.

Here is what we have to understand, when we pursue peace with the world, more often than not it results in us compromising and being influenced by the world instead of us influencing the world. Believe it or not, that’s what happened with the Israelites in the Book of Judges. They ended up adopting the religious practices of the Mystery Babylon religious systems and assimilating into the heathen Canaanite culture.

There are a few great mistakes since the Children of Israel took over the land under the leadership of Joshua… well kind of took over. Because just as Joshua failed to drive out all the Canaanites from the land. That was the command of the Lord.

Don’t we do the same? After we became believers, we have also failed to drive out certain ungodly elements from our lives. It could be friends we should no longer hang out with. It could be the music we listen to. Or maybe some of the habits or addictions we struggle to get rid of.

Another reason is that the Children of Israel departed from the covenant that they made with their God. They tend to walk away from being loyal to Him, and following His commandments. Their relationship with their God was dwindling down because it was not very important to them any longer.

To be honest the same can be told of us too. When everything goes well we tend to neglect our relationship with God. We neglect to pray, study the Word regularly and fellowship with other believers. The result is we become spiritually dull and lose interest in the things of the Lord.

And there is yet another failure here we can see that resonates well with us today. They tried to compromise with their Canaanite neighbours over time. Remember they failed to get rid of the Canaanites from the land, They saw benefits in keeping them around. That could be for economic reasons or for social benefits. So these Canaanite tribes were all around them.

The sad truth is over time the Israelites preferred worshipping the heathen gods of their neighbours instead of being 100% faithful to their one True God. They kept them because they were afraid of retaliation and unwanted inconvenience in their own lives. It was a matter of being controlled by fear instead of faith.

Is it not the same with us today? We are right to accept a liberal agenda these days. Abortion, homosexuality, etc. are all of a sudden not a big deal. We are afraid to voice against them. Their faith was kind of fleeting away.

In the aftermath of Joshua’s leadership, the Israelites faced the daunting task of taking possession of the Promised Land. This chapter vividly demonstrates that their successes and failures were not just military outcomes but reflections of their faith in motion. Where faith was paired with action, the Israelites saw victories. Where there was hesitation or compromise, their efforts faltered, leaving them short of God’s promises.

This narrative prompts us to reflect on our own understanding of faith. It challenges the modern believer to ask: Is my faith merely a declaration, or is it alive, pulsating through every decision and action I undertake?

The tribes of Israel who acted with conviction, who moved forward despite the uncertainty, embody the dynamic faith we are called to emulate.

“Belief in Motion” suggests that faith is not static. Like the Israelites facing diverse and powerful enemies, we too encounter challenges that test the depth of our conviction. Yet, it is in moving forward, in the doing, that our faith grows and becomes visible. Faith without action is like seeds never sown; it holds potential but fails to flourish.

Moreover, Judges Chapter 1 offers a cautionary tale about the consequences of incomplete obedience and half-hearted faith actions. The Israelites’ failure to fully conquer the land and expel its inhabitants led to future complications, highlighting that faith actions must be thorough and aligned with divine direction to bear the intended fruit.

In contemporary terms, “Belief in Motion” is a call to embody our faith in every aspect of our lives. Whether addressing personal challenges, contributing to community well-being, or advocating for justice and righteousness in the broader world, our actions are the truest expression of our faith. It is through our deeds that our belief becomes a living testimony, impacting lives and shaping the world in alignment with divine will.

As we ponder the lessons from Judges Chapter 1, let us commit to putting our faith into motion, recognizing that faith, when activated by deeds, has the power to transform not only our lives but the world around us.

Now, here is the question for you to consider before we close today’s message. The Israelites’ varied success in conquering the land was partly attributed to their faith and obedience to God’s commands.

How does the relationship between faith and action in this chapter prompt you to reflect on your own life’s challenges?

Where do we see the interplay of faith and action in your personal endeavours or community efforts?

As we end today, I want to remind you again to come back and listen again next week as I consider the other two topics, namely:

“The Middle Ground Myth: Navigating the Temptations of Compromise”! And “History’s Echo: Unraveling the Cyclical Saga of Human Nature”!

Until we meet again, may you find peace in His presence, joy in His freedom, and love in His embrace. Shalom and blessings to you all.

God’s grace was always there for all humanity!

Often times we think God somehow changed His mind at the coming of Yeshuva. We often hear Pastor’s teaching that the Law was given to the Jews to follow, but Yeshuva came and gave grace to Christians. They will teach that we are no longer under the law, we are under the grace. As if grace was never part of the Old Testament. The New Testament is the New Covenant and is the covenant of Grace and Yeshuva has denied the Jewish people and has replaced them with Gentiles. But, if you do an honest search in the scriptures, you will not find any teaching to support their claim at all. The fact is that God always dealt with humanity with grace. The story found in the Book of Ruth is a perfect example of that fact. The story of Ruth demonstrates that the grace of the LORD is extended to the Gentiles all the time and was always God’s plan right from the get-go. Remember, this was embedded in the very covenant that God gave to Abraham.

Genesis 18:18 After all, Abraham will surely become a great and powerful nation, and all the nations on the earth will pronounce blessings on one another using his name.

But there is a choice one has to make. Ruth made a conscious decision to follow the God of Israel. She left her parent’s home, her relatives, her friends, her countrymen and her pagan gods and decided to follow the true God, the God of Israel. In spite of Naomi’s persuasion, Orpha’s choice did not entice Ruth a bit to turn away from God and go back to where she belonged. Ruth had a lot to lose. She could have gotten married to a person of her own culture, nationality and religion. Her future would have been much brighter. But she let go of everything to follow Naomi and her God. Like Abraham, she left for a place unknown to her, by faith. This is reminiscent of what Yeshuva said in the Book of Luke:

Luke 14:25-27 Now large crowds were accompanying Jesus, and turning to them he said, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother, and wife and children, and brothers and sisters, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not carry his own cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

God honoured her decision in a big way, isn’t it? This gentile woman goes on to become the grandmother of the greatest king of Israel, David. Not only that, this gentile woman goes on to have a place in the genealogy of Yeshua, the very Messiah Himself.

So, next time when you think God’s grace was something new that happened only after the advent of Yeshuva, remember the story of Ruth. And do not forget the promise God gave to Abraham. God always pursued his creation no matter whether you were a Jew or a Gentile. Better yet, and you must hold this dear to your heart, when you and I step out in faith, and do the unthinkable and will the impossible, God will honour you and your generation to come.

Does God follow a Pattern, Model and Principle?

To understand God you must NOT ask the question ‘Why’. Instead, we must understand the pattern and the principles and models of how God operates and they are laid out in the Torah (Old Testament). Unfortunately, you will not find them in the NT. In fact, our understanding of the scripture must be based on this Pattern, Principles and Models. And our understanding of God is based on this very Pattern, Principles and Models. The one who understands this will understand how God thinks and how He operates.

God sees things differently than us but operates in the same Pattern, Principles and Models throughout history and the universe. Forget the WHYs and look for the WHICHs, in other words, “Which pattern will fit what I’m looking for?” is what we need to ask ourselves.

Notice some of the patterns recorded in the scripture applying God’s pattern, principles and model.

With Creation: Unclean -> Common -> Holy
In the Garden: Earth -> Eden -> The Tree in the middle
With the soil: Rocky ground -> Hard Ground -> Fertile ground
With Israel: Gentile -> Israel -> God
With All the Animals: Wild Animal -> Domesticated Animal -> Sacrificial Animals
With the Sacrifice Animal: The head of the animal -> Underneath the entrails, the fat that originally covered the entrails -> The innermost parts of the animal, its entrails
All animals are allowed with Gentiles -> Clean animals are allowed in the Camp of Israel -> Clean animal that meets all the requirements are used for atonement sacrifice, to be HOLY.
At Sinai: Bottom of the mountain -> Mountain was its slope -> Summit of Mount Sinai
In the Tabernacle: The outer courtyard -> the Holy Place -> the Most Holy Place
With the Priests: All Israelites -> Priests from Levites -> High Priests from Aaron
At personal growth: Un-submissive to God’s will -> Submissive to God’s Will -> Fit for Service to GOD, to be HOLY

Understanding the Tabernacle System in the Bible?

The Bible talks about two Tabernacles. They are Heavenly Tabernacle and the Earthly Tabernacle.

Earthly Tabernacle:

It is an earthly system but the blueprint is from Heaven.
The effect is temporary because the sacrifice is performed every year and at times daily.
It is imperfect because priests themselves are sinful.
The High priest was from mortal man.
Officiated by Priests from the tribe of Levi.
Used blood of bulls and goats for the remission of sins.

Heavenly Tabernacle:

Is a Heavenly system.
It’s affects are permanent.
It is perfect because of Jesus’s sacrifice.
The High priest was God’s Son after the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 5:6, Hebrews 7: 11- 17).
It is officiated by Jesus, the High Priest.
Blood of Jesus was used. The High Priest was both lamb and the Priest that sacrificed the lamb

Aaronic, earthly, inferior, week, and temporary priesthood operates to make people right with God through an animal sacrificial system. This is what the Book of Hebrews dealing with in chapter 8, 9 and 10.
On the other hand Jesus’ high priestly mediation which is of the order of Malki-Tzedek, which is superior, heavenly, eternal priesthood brings for eternal relationship with God and forgiveness of our sins. Yeshua did replace the Levitical Priesthood Laws and reinstated the Melchizedek Priesthood laws. The law that was part of the Levitical priesthood is no longer valid in Yeshua for the remission of our sins. But this does not mean that laws of Moses was abolished,

Understanding the Book Ruth is Key to understanding the New Testament!

Yes, that is correct! Understanding the Book Ruth is key to understanding the New Testament. Why did I say that? Because we see how a gentile woman was adapted or grafted to God’s chosen people. This is a fact that the modern church completely ignores or does not want to accept the fact that there is a process in which a gentile believer is grafted to the body of Christ. Oftentimes the modern church tends to consider only the New Testament as the only valid scripture while completely ignoring the Old Testament. Well, I have bad news for you. When Yeshuva or the disciples or the Apostles refer to the word scripture, what are they referring to? When Paul said, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is valuable for teaching the truth, convicting of sin, correcting faults and training in right living;” (2 Timothy 3:16), he was not referring to the New Testament! Because there is no New Testament written during their time. Apostle Paul is solely and completely referring to the Old Testament. Well, this is a discussion for another time.

Let us go back to the topic of our discussion for the sake of this lesson. It would be a great advantage if we understand the principles followed in the Book Of Ruth before we venture to study the New Testament. Because it contains so many foundational principles about how a gentile is grafted into the commonwealth of Israel. Now, talking about the ‘foundation’, we cannot stress enough how understanding the first five books of the Bible is essential in understanding the Bible, let alone understanding the Book of Ruth. For example in order to understand the dialogue between Naomi and her daughters-in-law you need to understand the concept of Levirate marriage. Another important topic is the concept of Kinsmen redeemers so on and so forth.

The Seven Noachide Laws

The Seven Noahide Laws, also known as the Noahic or Noachic Laws, are a set of ethical and moral imperatives that, according to Jewish tradition, were given by God to Noah after the Flood. These laws are considered universal principles for all of humanity, not just for the Jewish people. As a matter of fact the basic morality taught by all religion today has their roots in these 7 laws. The Seven Noahide Laws are as follows:

Prohibition of Idolatry (Avodah Zarah):
The first Noahide law prohibits the worship of idols or any form of idolatry. People are to recognize and worship the one true God.
Prohibition of Blasphemy (Birkat HaShem):
This law prohibits blasphemy, which includes disrespecting or using the name of God inappropriately.
Prohibition of Murder (Shefichat Damim):
The prohibition against murder emphasizes the sanctity of human life and the responsibility to protect it.
Prohibition of Theft (Gezel):
This law prohibits stealing or unjustly taking the property of another person.
Prohibition of Illicit Relations (Arayot):
The prohibition of illicit relations encompasses a range of sexual offenses, emphasizing the sanctity of family relationships.
Prohibition of Eating the Limb of a Living Animal (Ever Min HaChai):
This law prohibits eating the limb of a living animal. It emphasizes humane treatment of animals and respect for the life of all creatures.
Establishment of Courts of Justice (Dinim):
The establishment of a system of justice is a requirement for enforcing the other Noahide laws and ensuring a just and orderly society.

These Seven Noahide Laws are derived from interpretations of verses in the book of Genesis and are considered the foundational ethical principles for all of humanity. These laws were communicated by God to Adam and Noah, ancestors of all human beings. The laws provide a moral and legal framework that is intended to guide human behavior and promote a just and ethical society. While rooted in Jewish tradition, these principles have also been acknowledged and respected by various cultures and religious traditions throughout history.

Laws made by humans may change according to circumstance. But laws made by the Creator of all souls over all of time remain the same for all people at all times. If we would fulfill these laws just because they make sense to us, then we would change them, according to our convenience. We would be our own god. But when we understand that they are the laws of a supreme God, we understand that they cannot be changed, just as He does not change.