ISRAEL UPDATEDecember 28, 2003 - We find Jesus, Savior of the world, Messiah, and the only begotten Son of G-d in Jerusalem at the temple during the feast of the dedication. John 10:22, 23
The Feast of Dedication, or Lights, is probably better known to most as Hanukkah (or Chanakah), the remembrance of the temple rededication, after the destruction of it by Antiochus Epiphanes.
Jewish males were required by Mosaic Law to come to Jerusalem for three mandatory feasts - Passover, Pentecost (feast of weeks), and Tabernacles. Deuteronomy 16:1-17
It is interesting to note that Hanukkah is not considered a religious holiday by Jews - yet we find Jesus in full observance of what was correct.
This brings us to two key elements of his life that we need to emulate.
First, He apparently was in the house of G-d every opportunity he had. We can now better understand Matthew 3:15, “And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness.” During this time of minimal commitments how incredible that Jesus was setting the prime example of faithfulness to all that watched.
Second, we conclude the realization of this in Hebrews 10:25, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” True, it is Christmastime and we' are celebrating G-d's gift of salvation to the world, but His life - that fulfilled all righteousness - is one gift we cannot overlook. We need to rededicate our temple to the Holy Spirit and attend the House of G-d. . . just as our L-rd Jesus Christ…
December 28, 2003 - Not long ago I was challenged by a lady about why I didn’t like a prominent TV preacher (who I never made any comments about) because I choose not to name people or ministries - only the essence of their false teaching - so that people can come to their own conclusions and make their own decisions.
I challenged the woman with this; go home and read I Timothy Chapter 6 several times, meditate upon at, research it, then sit down and watch Brother XYZ to listen to his message.
After this, I think you will find one of two things - either Brother XYZ is contrary to the Scriptures, or right in line with the Scriptures.
The teachings of these types of faith teachers will tell you if you that if you don’t live in a big house, drive a big car, or have lots of money, you are poor testimony of Jesus - all of which are contrary to many Scriptures - not just I Timothy Chapter 6.
If we were to embrace of the hyper-faith mentality, then the dear believers in Third World countries have all failed miserably in their walk with G-d… should you happen to meet any of them, as I have, you would realize that is not true.
History bears out one fact throughout church history, the poorer the church, the purer the church. Therefore, a fat wallet is not an indication of G-d's blessing, or that hyper-faith is a “superior faith.”
It matters not what any person or group says or believes is gospel, it must be compared with Scripture, as Scripture is the final authority. G-d has placed His word above His name.
To be continued…