In this section of the Discipleship Articles we’ll explore how to apply the Scriptures as God intended.
After reading several books over the years that attempt to identify gentile believers as becoming Israelites, especially using the Genesis 48:19 text as proof that gentiles make up the dispersed of Ephraim, I began to notice that they constantly are referring to us as being grafted “into Israel”, “in Israel”, in one form or another. [...]
The condition of one’s heart is exposed when one encounters the Truth and must choose between the the Truth and the lie. Further, one’s heart is exposed when one has no desire to know what is Truth and what is the lie. The Apostle Paul wrote, “Examine yourself to see if you are of the [...]
James Chapter Two is often cited by traditional, evangelical Christianity as proof text that we can’t keep the Torah and should not try to. After all, none of us is without sin, so, by implication, toss out the standard for sin and carry on. That is what man says. But what does God say? What [...]
How often have you been in a situation where you’re wrongly being accused? If you’re like most people, it happens once in awhile. It’s obvious that as sinful creatures we could easily be accused of any number of things. But, it’s always particularly hard when you didn’t actually commit what you’re accused of. This seems [...]
Matthew 22:37 How Are We To Love YHWH According To HIS Word? Upon speaking with professing believers, and discussing the necessity of Biblical obedience, all too often we hear, “Jesus said (in Matthew 22:37) that we are just to love God and our neighbor. That has nothing to do with us having to keep HIS [...]
When did “Grace” begin? Because many have mistakenly thought that John 1:17 says that “grace began with JESUS” or “at the cross”, I offer the following list of verses from the Old Testament Scriptures, using the word “grace” (as found in the NKJV). May we be challenged in our thinking regarding HIS “grace” throughout the [...]
Independence – Freedom or Rebellion? As I’m sitting here writing this blog entry the sound of fireworks echoes off Big Turkey Lake, just about 200 yards from my house. It’s the Independence Day weekend and nearly every community across America celebrates the independence of the United States with fireworks and celebration. What about independence? Is [...]
Finding Fault with Us Scripture is Final Authority One of the positions held by some in the Messianic community has its counterpart in some traditional Christian circles; that Yeshua is not Elohim. The only valid discussion of this topic is that Scripture must be the final authority in all matters. It is good when we [...]
Man’s Law Versus God’s Law The Commandments and Doctrines of Men The commandments and doctrines of men are of no effect against the indulgence of the flesh. Practicing God’s commandments, by faith, results in life. The commandments of God are positively effectual when practiced by faith. Colossians 2:20-23 says that the commandments and doctrines of [...]
Ephesians 2:8-22 (The Enmity) Ephesians chapter two, as well as many other portions of Paul’s letters, has been misinterpreted and misunderstood almost from its beginning. Although I believe the LORD has given a small bit of revelation to me about these Scriptures, I in know way want to leave the impression that I’ve “learned it [...]
