Category: Torah

Categories
Apostolic Writings Discussions Torah

The illusion of control: Negotiating with God (Exodus 8–9; Isaiah 34–35; Hebrews 12)

Alt-text: Digital oil painting created by ChatGPT in a heavy impasto palette knife style, depicting Pharaoh in royal purple and gold garments gripping a dissolving scepter, facing Moses in humble earth tones with his hand raised toward divine light breaking through swirling clouds. Fragmented chains and mist symbolize liberation and the loss of control. The image bears a “Hallel.info” watermark in the lower right corner and overlaid text reading: “The illusion of control: Negotiating with God (Exodus 8–9; Isaiah 34–35; Hebrews 12).”

In this study of Exodus 8–9, we explored how Pharaoh’s attempts to negotiate with God revealed the futility of seeking control over true submission. We examined the motivations behind biblical negotiations — whether for personal gain or to save lives — and why God honors one over the other. Via parallel passages Isaiah 34–35 and Hebrews 12, we also discussed the destruction of Esau/Edom, compared how pagan gods and the God of Israel love humanity, and reflected on how authentic repentance and selfless motivations matter most when relating to God and others.

Categories
Apostolic Writings Discussions Prophets and Writings Torah

Standing strong or standing stubborn: What’s the difference? (Exodus 6–7)

What does it really means to have a “hardened heart,” like what cause the pharaoh of Egypt at the time of Israel’s Exodus? Three Hebrew words translated “harden” help us see the spiritual condition at work at that time and with us today. This study reflects on the balance between God’s actions and our choices, and how we can pray for softer hearts and “lips” to become more open, compassionate and effective in our internal and external lives.

Categories
Apostolic Writings Appointments With God Atonement Discussions Passover Torah

The New Covenant: Forgotten sins, remembered promises (Exodus 4; 1John 1–2)

Graphic for Hallel Fellowship by ChatGPT featuring an oil painting-style image. At center, a luminous figure of Yeshua blows a shofar, flanked by two glowing goats before a fiery altar; on the left, a dark doorway with a shadowy figure. Text reads: “The New Covenant — Forgotten sins & remembered promises. Exodus 4:21–23; 1 John 1–2.” Logo for hallel.info is also present.

The book of Exodus, Paul’s letter to the Colossians and the first letter from apostle Yokhanan (John) reveal the journey from bondage to freedom. We also see the significance of Israel as God’s firstborn and the ongoing struggle between the Kingdom of God and the kingdom of Satan. This study explores the teachings on atonement, how confession and transformation keep us anchored in God’s promises. It’s about returning, trusting and living out love and Heaven’s light.

Categories
Apostolic Writings Discussions Torah

The surprising connections between the burning bush and Peter’s dream sheet (Exodus 3; Acts 10)

ChatGPT-created digital oil palette knife painting of Moses kneeling before the burning bush on Mount Horeb, glowing with bright orange and yellow flames against a blue and earthy background. To the right, bold white text on a black background reads: “The surprising connections between the burning bush & Peter’s dream sheet — Exodus 3; Acts 10.” Banner includes the hallel.info logo.

Apostle Peter’s mission to the nations parallels to Moses’ mission to Egypt, emphasizing God’s ability to overcome seemingly impossible tasks. In this study, we explore how the symbolism of the burning bush in Exodus 3, with its thorny nature and God’s decision not to consume it, points to mercy and grace. This connects with a broader biblical theme of defeating oppression and evil, as seen in the plagues against Egypt. Believers must have courage and faith in Heaven’s missions on earth.

Categories
Apostolic Writings Discussions Prophets and Writings Torah

Beyond the grudge: Choosing compassion over vengeance (Genesis 50; Luke 23; Zechariah 14)

A textured oil palette knife painting in warm earth tones. On the left, Joseph embraces and forgives one of his brothers, who weeps against his chest. On the right, Yeshua hangs on the execution stake, wearing a crown of thorns, with His head bowed in compassion. The two scenes are divided yet unified by swirling strokes of gold and ochre, symbolizing forgiveness across time. Text overlay reads: “Beyond the grudge: Choosing compassion over vengeance (Genesis 50; Luke 23; Zechariah 14).”

This study explores forgiveness, restoration and reconciliation through the stories of Joseph and Yeshua (Jesus). Drawing from Genesis, Zechariah and Luke, we examine how Heaven models humility, letting go of grudges and embracing mercy. Messiah embodies the Yobel — the Jubilee release from debts (and related enslavement). Messiah also fleshes out the scriptural importance of community transformation and the need to welcome back those who have changed. Ultimately, we’re called to forgive as Heaven has forgiven us, modeling divine desire for compassion on the world.

Categories
Apostolic Writings Discussions Prophets and Writings Torah

Finishing well: How to run life’s race with purpose (Genesis 46–47; 1Kings 2; John 19)

ChatGPT-generated digital painting in oil palette knife style shows a triumphant runner in an orange jersey breaking the white finish-line tape with arms raised in victory, his face full of joy. Behind him, in the background and partially blurred, another exhausted runner in blue bends forward in defeat, emphasizing the contrast between finishing well and giving up. The textured brushstrokes use warm yellows, oranges, and cool blues to create energy and movement. Text says, "Finishing well: How to run life's race with purpose (Genesis 46:28–47:31; 1Kings 2:1–4; John 19:28–30).

What does it means to “finish well” in life and faith? Drawing from the Bible’s accounts of Jacob, Joseph, Judah, David, Solomon and others, in this study we discover that starting strong isn’t enough. It’s about persevering, repenting when we stray and renewing our minds with God’s word. Like running a race, we need encouragement, wisdom and a willingness to adjust course. Finishing well is a journey of growth, trust and continual action.

Categories
Apostolic Writings Discussions Torah

When free will meets God’s purpose: How Heaven orchestrates salvation (Genesis 44–46; Joshua 14; Luke 24)

"When free will meets God's purpose: How Heaven orchestrates salvation (Genesis 44-46; Joshua 14; Luke 24)." A ChatGPT digital oil painting in palette knife style, showing three biblical figures in warm earthy tones. On the left, an elderly man with a long white beard and robe rests his hand gently on the shoulder of a sorrowful middle-aged man in the center, who bows his head in humility and weariness. On the right, Yeshua (Jesus), clothed in white with a red mantle, extends a hand of comfort and blessing toward the central figure. The textured background glows with golden light, symbolizing divine presence and hope.

In this study, we explore how Joseph, Caleb and Yeshua (Jesus) each faced suffering and testing, yet chose to trust God’s plan over their own desires. Judah’s heartfelt plea for Benjamin shows true repentance and growth, while Caleb’s wholehearted faith is rewarded after years of waiting. Yeshua’s suffering brings ultimate glory to Heaven and salvation available to all. Together, these accounts reveal how God orchestrates even our free will choices for His redemptive purposes, calling us to maturity, unity, and wholehearted devotion to Him.