Tag: Matthew 06

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Apostolic Writings Discussions

Treasures that last: Building a life of eternal value (Genesis 43–44; Matthew 6)

Two men stand side by side under a bright, open sky, eyes closed and smiling as they reach their arms upward toward Heaven. The man on the left has empty pockets turned inside out, symbolizing having nothing stored up on earth. The man on the right has bulging pockets filled with coins and paper currency sticking out, representing earthly wealth. The scene is painted in a bold palette knife style with textured strokes. Text overlay says, "Treasures that last: Building a life of eternal value (Genesis 43-44; Matthew 6)."

In this study, we explored the call of Messiah Yeshua (Christ Jesus) to store up treasures in heaven, not just earthly wealth. It’s about living with discernment, generosity, and integrity — practicing righteousness both privately and publicly. We’re encouraged to regularly take spiritual inventory, ensuring our hearts align with God’s purposes. True reward comes from sincere faith, not public applause. Let’s invest in what lasts: our relationship with Adonai, our character, and blessing others in the Messiah’s name.

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Apostolic Writings Appointments With God Atonement Discussions Jubilee Prophets and Writings Sabbatical Year Torah

Cancel debts, free slaves: Radical teachings of Jubilee and Sabbatical Year for modern life (Leviticus 25; Isaiah 58; Matthew 6 and 18)

"Cancel debts, free slaves: Radical teachings of Jubilee and Sabbatical Year for modern life (Leviticus 25; Isaiah 58; Matthew 6 and 18). Adobe Firefly AI artwork of a hand reaching up toward a sunset-toned cloudy sky while a chain extends from each side of the scene and wraps around the wrist.

The Torah reading בְּהַר Behar (“on mount [Sinai],” Leviticus 25:1–26:2) teaches that debts are released after seven-year cycles (Shemitah, sabbatical year) and 49-year cycles (Yobel/Jubilee) to memorialize God’s forgiveness. This pattern is seen in Messiah Yeshua’s (Christ Jesus) teachings on forgiveness in Matthew 18 and manifest in his role as suffering servant who takes our debts (Isaiah 53). By forgiving others as we’ve been forgiven (Matthew 6:12), we reflect the Heavenly economy of releasing debts, underscored via receiving God’s mercy on Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement; Leviticus 16; Isaiah 58:1–12).

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Appointments With God Passover Unleavened Bread

‘Forgive us our debts’: Lord’s Prayer a window into Passover freedom

What does “the Lord’s prayer” have to do with Moshe’s (Moses) asking God to show him “Your glory”? You might be surprised. And what does Pesakh (Passover) have to do with tithing, remission of debts every seven and 50 years, and pilgrimages to Yerushalayim (Jerusalem) for Pesakh, Shavuot (Pentecost) and Sukkot (Tabernacles)? Here’s the thread through all of these and topics: We are to remember from Whom our sustenance and wealth come and from Whom our freedom comes from the things that hold us captive.

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Apostolic Writings Discussions Prophets and Writings Torah

Exodus 35:1–36:7: Can you handle the truth about God’s love?

God doesn’t explain everything, largely because our search for the answers is key to God’s revealing them to us. As paradoxical as that sounds, it’s a key takeaway from the Torah reading ויקהל Vayaqhel (“and he assembled,” Exodus 35:1–38:20). It’s a repetition of the Tabernacle elements, but it does reveal what the LORD really has always wanted — our heartfelt connection.

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Apostolic Writings Discussions

Lessons in Communicating With God 3: ‘Faith’ according to the Bible (Luke 11:1-13)

Prayer serves as a vital means of two-way communication with God, grounded in Scripture, and requires humility and persistence. Historical references indicate that early followers of Jesus frequently recited the Lord’s Prayer, demonstrating active faith rather than passive belief. Key biblical examples emphasize the importance of trust and reliability in earnest communion with God. As believers express their faith, they should acknowledge God’s unwavering trustworthiness. Ultimately, our response to God’s promises should be one of acceptance and action, demonstrating true faith.

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Apostolic Writings Discussions Life With God Prayer

Lessons in communicating with God 2: Learn how to pray from Messiah (Luke 11:1-13)

True communication with God involves attentive listening, confirming receipt of His messages, and resisting distractions. Key lessons discussed include the importance of focused prayer, as exemplified by Hannah, who prayed quietly to avoid distractions. The Shema highlights the need to love God wholeheartedly through prayer, fasting, and charity. Persistence in prayer, contrasted with vain repetition, showcases the importance of trust in God. Ultimately, communication with God fosters community, guiding believers toward His will without leading them into temptation or sin.

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Apostolic Writings Discussions Life With God Prayer

Lessons in communicating with God 1: Rebel against distraction (Luke 10:38-42)

Effective communication requires attentive listening and confirmation a message is received, perhaps via a reply or acting on the information delivered. The passages in Luke 10:38-11:13 and Matthew 6 contain lessons in effectively listening to God and talking with Him.

The first lesson is in the account of Yeshua’s visit to the home of Marta and Miriam in Bethany. This is not just a little biographical story. It’s a lesson, starting with the names of the women themselves.