Category: Apostolic Writings

These studies cover the writings by the closest shelakhim (apostles) of Yeshua haMashiakh (Jesus the Christ). Commonly called the “New Testament,” this standard canon includes the four Gospels, the letters and the Apocalypse (Revelation).

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Apostolic Writings Discussions Prophets and Writings Torah

Balancing preparation and Providence: Lessons from Abram’s covenant (Genesis 15; Romans 4)

Adobe Firefly palette knife-style AI image of two angels with swords standing guard outside a church. The text says, "Balancing preparation and Providence: Lessons from Abram's covenant (Genesis 15; Romans 4)."

In a world filled with uncertainty and fear, where do we find true security? Is it in the strength of our own defenses, or in the unwavering protection of the Almighty? This study on Genesis 15 and Romans 4 invites us to explore the intricate tapestry of Scripture, where the themes of salvation and security at a place of worship are profoundly intertwined.

As we follow the unfolding covenant between God and Abram, we discover that the shield from evil belongs not in the hands of humanity, but in the steadfast grasp of Heaven. Through the powerful imagery of the covenant ceremony, we glimpse the ironclad nature of God’s promise. It reminds us that our ultimate trust must rest in the Promise-maker and Promise-keeper — not in our own efforts.

Yet, this study also reveals the importance of human preparation and community support, all grounded in a faith that transcends our circumstances. Join us as we delve into the timeless wisdom of this passage, uncovering the delicate balance between divine provision and our own responsibility in the face of life’s challenges.

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Apostolic Writings Discussions Prophets and Writings Torah

Melchizedek’s blessing of Abram shows how Heaven is always ‘open’ for believers’ business (Genesis 14; Isaiah 41; Hebrews 7)

Adobe Stock Photo of the face of a white-haired man. Text says, "Melchizedek's blessing of Abram shows how Heaven is always 'open' for believers' business (Genesis 14; Isaiah 41; Hebrews 7)."

This study delves into the rich, interwoven tapestry of Genesis 14, Isaiah 41 and Hebrews 7, where Melchizedek emerges as a prophetic foreshadowing of the Messiah’s eternal priesthood. Explore how Abram’s encounter with this mysterious king-priest points to the Messiah’s role as the ultimate deliverer and high priest. Uncover the Messianic themes woven throughout Isaiah’s vision and the Letter to the Hebrews, revealing the Messiah as the fulfillment of God’s promises and the one who ushers in the true rest for His people.

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Apostolic Writings Chanukah Discussions Prophets and Writings Torah

The Seed of promise: A messianic tapestry from Eden to Abram to eternity (Genesis 12–13; Joshua 24; Hebrews 11)

Four panels of Adobe Firefly AI generated oil-painting-like portraits, from left, a pregnant woman, an old couple, Herod's temple, a white-robed man walking down a street. The text says, "The Seed of promise: A messianic tapestry from Eden to Abram to eternity (Genesis 12-13, Joshua 24, Hebrews 11)."

This study of Genesis 12–13, Joshua 24, Hebrews 11, Zechariah 2–4 and John 10 explored the theme of God’s promises and their fulfillment, tracing the lineage of the “seed” from Eve to Yeshua (Jesus). Vows, oaths and faithfulness are key principles for us because they undergird God’s promises, as seen in the chain of the “seed” from Eve to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Judah, David and ultimately to the Messiah. The rededication of the Temple celebrated at Chanukah is part of the prophecy of a “greater glory” to come to the structure, and it was fulfilled in Yeshua, the promised Messiah Who would bring the true restoration of God’s presence on Earth.

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Apostolic Writings Discussions Prophets and Writings

Toppling the tower of self: Rediscovering true greatness through humility before Heaven (Genesis 11; Isaiah 28; 1Corinthians 14)

Text says, "Toppling the tower of self: Rediscovering true greatness through humility before Heaven. Genesis 11; Isaiah 28; 1Corinthians 14."Adobe Stock image of a partially built Tower of Babel with scaffolding around it and partly built structures around it.

This study dives into some powerful biblical themes: pride, self-importance and the need to walk in humility and obedience to God’s commands. We explore the stories of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11, the prophecy against Ephraim in Isaiah 28 and Paul’s parallel teachings in 1Corinthians 14. The big takeaway from the Torah passage and companion readings is that the Messiah wants to replace our human pride with Himself as the true foundation and source of wisdom. It’s all about finding that balance — childlike faith combined with mature discernment, leaving behind self-exaltation to humbly submit to the Messiah’s lordship.

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Apostolic Writings Discussions Torah

Was Noah really righteous?: Lessons from the Flood for today (Genesis 6–7)

"Was Noah really righteous?: Lessons from the Flood for today (Genesis 6-7)." Adobe Stock image of the ark under construction, showing workers around it.

Genesis 6–7 highlights Noah’s righteousness and blamelessness in a corrupt world. Unlike his generation, Noah “walked with God,” demonstrating faith and obedience. His righteousness was not situational but consistent, rooted in his willingness to listen to God’s correction and fulfill His commands. This trust and humility set Noah apart, making him a vessel of God’s mercy and a model of faithfulness. This was a shadow of the coming Agent of Heaven’s mercy: Messiah Yeshua (Christ Jesus).

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Apostolic Writings Discussions Prophets and Writings Torah

From sacred to sacrilege: ‘Sons of God,’ ‘daughters of men’ and erosion of God’s words in human traditions (Genesis 5–6; Isaiah 29–30; Matthew 23)

"From sacred to sacrilege Sons of God, 'daughters of men" & erosion of God's words In juman traditions (Genesis 5-6; Isaiah 29-30; Matthew 23)." Adobe Firefly generated palette-knife-style image showing two long-haired bearded men opposing each other, with one on the left with a warmer color tone and the one of the right showing cooler tones.

Unraveling the sacred numbers and differing genealogies in Genesis 5–6, Isaiah 29–30, and Matthew 23 reveals a timeless struggle between flesh and the Spirit. Just as the Messiah exposed the hypocrisy of religious leaders, we too are called to move beyond outward piety and cultivate a genuine relationship with God, aligning our actions with His teachings. This study challenges us to be true “sons of God” (Romans 8:14), walking in the Spirit and resisting the temptations that have ensnared humanity since the “days of Noah” (Isaiah 54:9; Matthew 24:37; Luke 17:26; 1Peter 3:20).

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Apostolic Writings Discussions Torah

Is religion ‘opium’ or empowerment? How Cain and Abel reveal a good God amid a world of suffering (Genesis 4; Romans 3)

"'Opium' or empowerment? How Cain and Abel reveal a good God amid a world of suffering (Genesis 4; Romans 3)."

This study of Genesis 4 focuses on the offerings of Cain and Abel, tracing the narrative of atonement and the messianic hope (Gen. 3:15, 4:1) throughout the Bible. Confronting the problem of evil, we find that suffering refines our character and deepens trust in a good God (Rom. 8:18-22, 2Cor. 4:13-18). Though some deride religion as opium (Karl Marx), we are empowered to maintain an eternal perspective, embracing the transformative power of the Suffering Servant Who crushes the serpent’s head (Isaiah 53; Romans 3). As watchmen, we navigate media narratives, discerning truth and standing firm in wisdom (James 1).