Studies

This week’s study

  • Readings: March 29, 2025
    In Genesis 25:1–26:11, the focus is on Abraham’s descendants and God’s promises to them, highlighting the significance of trusting in His plan. Parallel passage 2Samuel 5:17–6:1 illustrates King David’s reliance on divine direction during his battles, underscoring the necessity of seeking God’s will. Another parallel, Hebrews 12:14–29, encourages believers to pursue peace and holiness, reminding them of the unshakable kingdom they are part of, and the reverence due to God.

Related readings

See the full year of readings from First Fruits of Zion and TorahResource (one-year cycle or three-year cycle). For a schedule of readings to go through the Apostolic Writings and Prophets & Writings, see the Scripture-reading cycle at MessianicJudaism.net.

Latest study notes and audio recordings

Studies in Torah
In Genesis 25:1–26:11, the focus is on Abraham’s descendants and God’s promises to them, highlighting the significance of trusting in His plan. Parallel passage 2Samuel 5:17–6:1 illustrates King David’s reliance on divine direction during his battles, underscoring the necessity of seeking God’s will. Another parallel, Hebrews 12:14–29, encourages believers to pursue peace and holiness, reminding them of the unshakable kingdom they are part of, and the reverence due to God.
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Adobe Firefly AI image: A colorful digital painting features a couple holding hands, walking toward a glowing golden light framed by six ornate pillars. The background includes lush greenery and a radiant sky. The text overlay reads: "6 pillars of purposeful partnership in life & faith," with Bible references to Genesis 24, Isaiah 12-14, and James 4. A small logo in the lower left corner says "hallel.info."
This study of Genesis 24:42-67; Isaiah 12:3-14:2; and James 4:13-17 explores divine guidance through Abraham’s journey of faith. The passages reveal God’s sovereignty in human plans, emphasizing trust, humility and seeking Heaven’s wisdom. Abraham in six ways shows how marriage is a sacred covenant requiring parental involvement, mutual respect, and spiritual alignment. We find true contentment by aligning our lives with God’s eternal plan, rather than chasing fleeting worldly pursuits.
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An Adobe Firefly digital painting of a woman with a headscarf, representing Rebekah from the Bible. The background has warm, artistic brushstrokes in gold, green, and red tones. The text overlay reads: "Bride of Messiah – Matriarch Rebekah reveals where true authority comes from. Genesis 24; Judges 19; Ephesians 5." The logo "hallel.info" appears in the lower right corner.
Servanthood, the surprising path to spiritual power. This study of Genesis 24:1–41; Judges 19:16–21; and Ephesians 5:15–33 plunges into the lives of biblical icons Rivkah (Rebekah), David’s wife Abigail, and the Prophets. It uncovers a paradox: true authority emerges from humble service. Explore the delicate dance between respect and truth, as honesty proves the wellspring of genuine esteem. Discover how timeless principles of the soul can revitalize modern economics. At the heart of it all, the “bride of Messiah” beckons, a call to sacrificial love that transforms both individual and community. Prepare to have your assumptions upended, as this…
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An oil painting-style digital image divided into two contrasting halves. On the left, an elderly man with a white beard, wearing traditional Middle Eastern attire, sits under the shade of a rock formation, gazing thoughtfully into the distance. The scene has earthy tones and a contemplative atmosphere. On the right, a young athlete in a colorful outfit is in motion, surrounded by a vibrant, abstract background of energetic brushstrokes in bright blues, reds, yellows, and greens. The text overlay reads: **“Why our pursuit of longevity can’t compare to God’s eternal promise”** with biblical references to **Genesis 23, 1 Kings 1, and Acts 7.** The image visually contrasts human aging and vitality, emphasizing the theme of temporal life versus God's eternal promise.
This study examines Genesis 23; 1Kings 1 and Acts 7, emphasizing God’s eternal promises over human pursuits of longevity and control. Abraham’s purchase of Machpelah, David’s succession planning, and Stephen’s sermon highlight faith in God’s unfolding plan. While biohacking seeks to extend life, Scripture reminds us that true immortality is only found in Messiah (Christ). Rather than fearing death, believers are called to trust in God’s sovereignty and focus on eternal purpose in Him.
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A textured, palette-knife style oil painting depicting the connection between Purim and Passover. On the left, Queen Esther stands before King Xerxes in a grand Persian palace, symbolizing Purim, with royal purples and golds enhancing the scene. On the right, Passover is represented by Yeshua (Jesus) at the Last Supper, breaking bread with His disciples, illuminated by warm candlelight. In the center, a radiant figure of Yeshua stands as the bridge between the two events, symbolizing the fulfillment of both in His redemptive mission. The painting features bold, expressive strokes and vibrant colors, emphasizing divine providence and salvation.
This quick study of the book of Esther and the background of the Festival of Purim reveals how they are intricately woven into the redemptive narrative fulfilled in Yeshua the Messiah (Jesus the Christ). Just as Esther risked her life to save her people, Yeshua laid down His life to redeem humanity. The parallels between Purim, Passover and the Messiah’s mission reveal God’s sovereign plan.
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An Adobe Firefly AI palette knife style oil painting painting image shows a dark room filled with faceless people. A spotlight shines on a teen boy with his hand raised. Text says, "Here I am! Responding to Heaven's call to bring Light to the nations. (Genesis 22; Isaiah 33; Matthew 27)."
Sacrifice, provision, and redemption intertwine in Genesis 22 and parallel passages in Isaiah 33 and Matthew 27. From the עקדה Akeidah (the Binding of Isaac) to the ultimate sacrifice of the Messiah, we see a tapestry of faith-trust and the transformative power of trials. Discerning the unseen, responding to the call and embracing shalom amidst chaos — this study invites us to cultivate vision, endurance, and a deeper understanding of the God who sees, provides, and redeems. May we answer the summons of Heaven the way Abraham and Isaac did — הִנֵּנִי hineini (“here I am”).
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Adobe Firefly AI oil palette knift style image of an elderly ancient near east woman (Sarah) holding an infant boy (Isaac). Text says, "From barrenness to blessing: The miraculous births that changed history. (Genesis 21; 1Samuel 1; Matthew 1)."
The promised Seed of Eve was destined from the beginning of the world to crush the head of the one who brought misery to Earth. That Seed is traced through the miraculous births of Isaac, Samuel and ultimately Immanuel — the Messiah, God with us. Amidst human failings and spiritual decline, God’s sovereign plan unfolds, revealing a trajectory from Eden to eternity, where the glory of His presence is restored. This study of Genesis 21, 1Samuel 1–2 and Matthew 1 invites us to trust the Creator’s promises, discern His ways, and anticipate the coming of the King who will…
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