In Yeshua’s Inheritance Congregation the last few weeks we have been teaching on the necessity of both the baptism of the Holy Spirit for salvation (new birth), and of the on-going filling of the Holy Spirit as needed for the power necessary to live the victorious life of a believer in Yeshua.  Just as God has given this chosen land ... Continue reading]]> ShaLOM, from a dry and thirsty land not yet desperate enough for the
only true source of true peace and rest.

In Yeshua’s Inheritance Congregation the last few weeks we have been
teaching on the necessity of both the baptism of the Holy Spirit for
salvation (new birth), and of the on-going filling of the Holy Spirit as
needed for the power necessary to live the victorious life of a believer
in Yeshua.  Just as God has given this chosen land of His to be mostly
desert until the curse and futility are actually taken away after the
Lord returns, so, too, at times are our souls dry and thirsty, and
crying out for the living waters to submerge us with the fullness of
Messiah.  The whole creation groans, and we groan with it until the
liberty of the full redemption at the resurrection of our bodies.  We
have been saved in this hope, which is also the hope of the fathers of
the Jewish people. (Acts 26:6-8; Rom 8:18-25)  That glorious day will
surely come!

As much as God has promised the perpetuity of agricultural growth, of temperatures, seasons, and cycle of days (Gen 8:22), nonetheless the stability of the Earth’s life seems to be less predictable and consistent as the last days progress towards the end-times.  We go from ... Continue reading]]> It is hot and dry in the Southland of the Holy Land.  Last night at 9:00 (21:00), the temperatures around Israel were as hot as what is normal for this time of year at mid-day.

As much as God has promised the perpetuity of agricultural growth, of temperatures, seasons, and cycle of days (Gen 8:22), nonetheless the stability of the Earth’s life seems to be less predictable and consistent as the last days progress towards the end-times.  We go from colder/wetter-than-normal immediately to hotter/dryer-than-normal, and back again.  Life goes on by the power of God’s Word holding all things together, whether people are oblivious to the realities of the times we live in, or whether we discern the signs of the times.

Praise the Lord for His goodness and mercies to sinful humanity!

In the following days the Biblical holiday of Shavuot ([7] Weeks) and Pentecost (50 Days) will be marked, properly counting from the first-fruits resurrection of our Lord Yeshua from the dead on the day after the Sabbath, i.e. Sonday, during the Passover/Unleavened Bread week.  Thus, Shavuot/Pentecost should also be properly celebrated on the 8th Sonday from the Passover, which is 7 weeks from that first Sonday, and the 50th day including that day after the Sabbath.  ... Continue reading]]> Holiday greetings to you all!

In the following days the Biblical holiday of Shavuot ([7] Weeks) and Pentecost (50 Days) will be marked, properly counting from the first-fruits resurrection of our Lord Yeshua from the dead on the day after the Sabbath, i.e. Sonday, during the Passover/Unleavened Bread week.  Thus, Shavuot/Pentecost should also be properly celebrated on the 8th Sonday from the Passover, which is 7 weeks from that first Sonday, and the 50th day including that day after the Sabbath.  Our new life as a new creation born-again by the Holy Spirit begins as children of the resurrection in our Savior Redeemer, who died and rose again!  Jesus is the first-born of creation, and the first-born of many brethren.  Praise God for His free gift of eternal life after death for all who truly believe His good news! (Lev 23:9-21; Acts 2:1; Rom 10:1-13)

God bless you as you celebrate His wonderful  gift of His Spirit and of eternal life in Messiah Jesus!

With the evil of the terrorist bombings at the Boston Marathon shocking the civilized world once again at the brutal character of those who worship a god of vengeance and death, in Israel the celebration of the 65th year of statehood has just concluded, a testimony to the faithfulness of the living God  of the living who gave His Son to be brutalized to death, in the greatest expression of love this world has ever known, offering forgiveness to all who ... Continue reading]]> Shalom with God to all of you,

With the evil of the terrorist bombings at the Boston Marathon shocking the civilized world once again at the brutal character of those who worship a god of vengeance and death, in Israel the celebration of the 65th year of statehood has just concluded, a testimony to the faithfulness of the living God  of the living who gave His Son to be brutalized to death, in the greatest expression of love this world has ever known, offering forgiveness to all who will believe the love of the truth. The Lord Yeshua sympathizes as our High Priest with all who suffer unrighteously the brutality of murderous hatred, for He Himself has suffered the same in His body and soul and spirit.  Praise to God forever that this same Jesus lives forevermore by His resurrection from the dead in power over death, the last enemy!

As I write this, I have heard a report of three rockets shot at the southern city of Eilat.  No injuries are reported, but terror does not need actual victims; it only needs to take away peace from the ordinary lives of ordinary people going about their ordinary lives.  In the harsh reality of a world against the truth of the true God and Savior, it seems as if this will only increase before all is done. (Rev 6:3-4)  And it is the Lord Yeshua/Jesus Himself who will loose the restraint.  Our hope is in Him, who knows how to keep our souls secure through faith as we look for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, no matter what may come between now and the Finish Line.

In the face of so much proof from both victims and perpetrators — and from their descendants — it is not only incredible ... Continue reading]]> Today is Holocaust Remembrance Day in Israel.  This annual memorial gives living eye-witness testimony  to  the truth of the incomparable catastrophe known as the Holocaust, with a capital ‘H’.  There has till now been nothing else like it on a national or ethnic scale, however horribly many people or nations have suffered from the hands of God, devils, or humans.

In the face of so much proof from both victims and perpetrators — and from their descendants — it is not only incredible how there can be so many who deny its actuality, but it also demands of those who do know the truth to speak up and out about it in order to ‘keep truth alive’.  A similar thing occurred not long after the crucifixion and the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ:  despite all evidence attesting to the truth of what actually happened, that truth was denied and suppressed until today, when multitudes are actually dull of hearing and feeling to believe the truth and its condemnation on the one hand, and its redemptive hope beyond all mortal reasoning on the other.   The restoration of the Jewish people as a nation in its land – promised long ago by YHVH to His chosen people – is a revival the like of which is also incomparable with other peoples and lands.

There was an attempt yesterday to ‘wipe Israel off the internet’ by those whose irrational hatred of Israel and the Jewish people have led them to waste their lives and energies on acts of hatred and evil, totally ignoring that it is from the Jewish people and from YHVH, the God of Israel, that all that is good and beneficial to mankind has come.  That terrible things also come through Jewish people should be no surprise to people  that understand the sinfulness of human beings, whoever they be.  There is no ‘mankind’ apart from the truth that the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob/Israel created us in His image and likeness, from which we have all fallen, and to which He calls us to return through repentance and faith in the gospel.   Yeshua/Jesus sows His seed; the devil sows his.  The spirit of antisemitism and of antichrist are both directed against God Himself and His Son. (Ex 4:22; Rom 1:1-5)

The God and Father of the Lord Jesus Christ (Yeshua the Messiah) has said, and still says:

“Do not fear, O Jacob My servant”, says YHVH:  For I am with you.  For I will make a complete end of all the nations to which I have driven you, but I will not make a complete end of you.  I will justly  discipline/chastise you, and I will not let you off wholly unpunished.”  (Jer 46:28)

“Truly these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all persons everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained.  He has given assurance of this to all by raising [Yeshua/Jesus] from the dead.” (Acts 17:30-31)

This New Moon also marks the beginning of the first month in God’s redemptive calendar year given to Israel, leading up to the Passover on the Full Moon two weeks later. (Ex 12:2)

So, is the new moon covered over, that is, darkened?; or, is it a slim crescent, that is, partially revealed ... Continue reading]]> On March 11 there is a New Moon.  Will you see it?  What is it that you will see?

This New Moon also marks the beginning of the first month in God’s redemptive calendar year given to Israel, leading up to the Passover on the Full Moon two weeks later. (Ex 12:2)

So, is the new moon covered over, that is, darkened?; or, is it a slim crescent, that is, partially revealed or exposed?  The Scriptures are not silent about this, since God commanded Israel to celebrate every New Moon, and to blow the trumpets on that occasion! (Num 10:10)  If Jesus does fulfill the meaning of the New Moon, and if the moon does symbolize Israel, then the answer to whether the new moon is covered or partially revealed will be consistent with its symbolism. 

There are three Bible references to the New Moon that can help us: 

1Sam 20:5   “And David said the Jonathan, ‘Indeed tomorrow is the New Moon, and I should not fail to sit with the King to eat.  But let me go, that I may hide in the field until the third day at evening.’”

From this verse, we can see that David knew when there would be a new moon, without there being any official ‘spotters’ to watch for it and inform all the others after they had seen it.  David also says that he will be hiding in the field.  How hiding?  Because there would be no light of the moon to help make him visible in any movements, as he sought to protect himself from the king who sought his life.  How long did he plan to hide out in the field during the new moon?  Until the third evening, which is about the length of time for the dark moon to wax as it goes from its final light phase to its next crescent moon. 

Amos 8:5   “. . . When will the New Moon be past, that we may sell grain? . . . .”

The heartless people who were only concerned with their own commercial interests at the expense of the poor and needy were anxious to know when the beginning-of-the-month New Moon (and the end-of-the-week Sabbath) would be over – and not, “when is it?” — so that they could get back to business and oppress the poor and needy.  If the New Moon were a sliver of light (like the Islamic sign by sight!), there would be no need of the question!  But if the new moon is darkened by the Earth being directly between it and the Sun, it could take up to three days until the life that was hidden appeared again to sight.  The oppressors wanted to know when they could again be ‘freed’ from the constraints of the Law of God in whatever way it restricted their evil thoughts and plans.

Ps 81:3-4Eng   “Blow the trumpet at the time of the New Moon; at the covering, on our celebration day.  For this is a statute for Israel, a law of the God of Jacob.” 

Verse 3 has been used by many to go through hoops not to accept it for what it plainly and simply says in Hebrew.  The two verses are each in parallel.  Verse 4 (5 in Hebrew) says in parallel the same thing:  God gave His instruction to Israel – to Jacob – to celebrate the New Moon.  Verse 3 (4 in Hebrew) is describing when to blow the trumpet:  at the New Moon, which is described as being covered.  The parallel part of the verse is not describing the time, nor is it speaking of two different moon phases, just as the other verse is not speaking of two different peoples.  And, God did not command Israel to blow the trumpets on the full moons.  The Hebrew word is ba-kaseh (כסה), which simply means “at the [whole] covering“.  If something is partially covered, it is not ‘covered’; it is partly exposed.  We do not speak of covering something in some measure of light, but we speak of covering something over.  Light reveals; darkness covers.  Yeshua spoke of letting our light shine, not being hidden under cover of a basket. (Mt 5:14-16) The heavens declare the glory of God!

(You can read the full article here:  http://streamsinthenegev.com/school-of-fish/the-new-moon-covered-or-revealed/ )

Now scientists are speculating that the Higgs bosun could also be a cause for the eventual destruction of the universe — should the sun not burn out first.

“It may be that the universe we live in is inherently unstable,” said Joseph Lykken, a theoretical ... Continue reading]]> The capture of the most wanted sub-atomic  particle in physics last summer was named as Science journal’s Breakthrough of the  Year 2012.  (see earlier post on the ’God Particle’:  http://streamsinthenegev.com/latest-news/god-particle-found-4-july-2012-2/  ) 

Now scientists are speculating that the Higgs bosun could also be a cause for the eventual destruction of the universe — should the sun not burn out first.

“It may be that the universe we live in is inherently unstable,” said Joseph Lykken, a theoretical physicist from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. “And at some point, billions of years from now, it’s all going to get wiped out.

Scientists refer to last year’s discovery as a Higgs boson-like particle, since they’re still working to confirm it really is the elusive particle. The Higgs boson, also called the “God particle”, is believed to give all objects mass. But Lykken says it could also spell doom for the universe.”

We see again that the Bible and Science can be reconciled.  True science — knowledge — will confirm what is written for our instruction and admonition in the Scriptures.  But, the problem with “Science” is that, while it has much of the data right, too often the scientists do not interpret the data correctly so as to give us the true knowledge for understanding of what it really means, and the wisdom for living in the truth.

The Bible is very clear that this very good universe is going to go, and will be replaced by one that is Perfect!  But it will occur far sooner than billions of years from now, but will be within the next 1000 years, give or take a few years.

Gen 1:1,31   “In the beginning God created the Heavens and the Earth.”  “And God saw everything that He had made, and behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.”

Is 34:4a  ”And all the host of the heavens shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled like a scroll.”

Rev 6:14-17    ”And the heaven departed like a scroll when it is rolled together.  And every mountain and island were moved out of their places.  And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every freeman, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains.  And they said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him sitting on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb; for the great day of His wrath has come, and who will be able to stand?”

2Pt 3:3-14   “First, knowing this, that there will come in the last days scoffers walking according to their own lusts and saying, Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.

For this is hidden from them by their willing it, that the heavens were of old, and the earth out of the water, and through water, being held together by the Word of God, through which the world that then was, being flooded by water, perished.  But the present heavens and the earth being kept in store by the same Word, are being kept for fire until the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men.

But, beloved, let not this one thing be hidden from you, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.  The Lord is not slow concerning His promise, as some count slowness, but is long-suffering toward us, not purposing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a rushing noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat. And the earth and the works in it will be burned up.  Then, all these things being about to be dissolved, what sort ought you to be in holy behavior and godliness,  looking for and rushing the coming of the Day of God, on account of which the heavens, being on fire, will melt away, and the elements will melt, burning with heat?

But according to His promise, we look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.   Therefore, beloved, looking for these things, be diligent, spotless, and without blemish, to be found by Him in peace.” 

Is 62:1-7 For Zion’s sake I will not be silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until its righteousness goes out as brightness, and her salvation ... Continue reading]]> Ps 122:6-9 Prayerfully ask about the peace of Jerusalem; those who love you shall be blessed. Peace be within your walls, blessings within your palaces. For my brothers and companions’ sakes, I will now say, Peace be within you. Because of the house of Yehovah our God I will seek your good.

Is 62:1-7 For Zion’s sake I will not be silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until its righteousness goes out as brightness, and her salvation as a burning lamp. And the nations will see your righteousness, and all kings your glory; and you will be called by a new name, which the mouth of Yehovah will name. You also will be a crown of glory in the hand of Yehovah, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God. You will no more be called Forsaken; nor will your land any more be called Desolate; but you will be called, My Delight is in her, and your land, Married; for Yehovah delights in you, and your land is married. For as a young man marries a virgin, so will your sons marry you; and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so will your God rejoice over you.

I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem, who always all the day and all the night will not be silent; you who remember Yehovah, do not be silent. And give Him no rest until He establishes and makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth. 

Election results from today’s voting for the next Israeli government are indicating that the large nationalist coalition has been significantly reduced. The current Prime Minister — and the probable next PM — will not have the large and commanding coalition as he had expected just  under three months ago when he and the other leading party at that time merged, and will need to form a coalition with others who challenge him personally, or ... Continue reading]]> Shalom from a divided land and people.

Election results from today’s voting for the next Israeli government are indicating that the large nationalist coalition has been significantly reduced. The current Prime Minister — and the probable next PM — will not have the large and commanding coalition as he had expected just  under three months ago when he and the other leading party at that time merged, and will need to form a coalition with others who challenge him personally, or else his political focus.  At that time, October 30, 2012, I posted here, 
 http://streamsinthenegev.com/latest-news/merger-of-likud-and-israel-beitanu-party-lists-30-oct-2012/ :

“Netanyahu referred to rumors that Foreign Minister Avigdor Liberman would succeed him, saying, ‘I heard talk of inheritances in recent days.  I have news for everyone: I plan to lead Israel for many more years, as will Likud’, he added.

Naturally speaking, this merger does not bode well for the Messianic community in Israel of believers in Yeshua/Jesus as Messiah; but, on the other hand, our God can use what may seem right in the sight of man to begin to open his eyes to spiritual realities.  Pride comes before a fall.

‘”Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit”, declares YHVH of Hosts!’  Israel’s hope is realized in the one to whom the kingdom belongs:  “‘A ruin, a ruin, I will make it.  This also will be no more until He comes whose right it is, and I will give it to Him!”  (Ezek 21:27 Eng; Gen 49:10; Ps 2)

The true heir of Israel’s leadership is Yeshua. (Mt 21:38; Mk  12:7; Lk 20:14)  ’Even so, Come, Lord Jesus!’”

According to the decree, reported by the official Palestinian news agency Wafa Thursday night, all stamps, signs, and official letterheads will be changed to bear the new name.” ( http://www.timesofisrael.com/abbas-changes-name-of-palestinian-authority-to-state-of-palestine/ )

For those accustomed to the unreal virtual world reality in this post-modern world, the announcement by ... Continue reading]]>

“Palestinian Authority President Abbas signed a presidential decree changing the name of the Palestinian Authority to the “State of Palestine,” following the Palestinians’ upgraded status at the United Nations as a non-member observer state.

According to the decree, reported by the official Palestinian news agency Wafa Thursday night, all stamps, signs, and official letterheads will be changed to bear the new name.” ( http://www.timesofisrael.com/abbas-changes-name-of-palestinian-authority-to-state-of-palestine/ )

For those accustomed to the unreal virtual world reality in this post-modern world, the announcement by the President of the Palestinian Authority is dismissed as nothing more than a symbolic act.  The Palestinian Arab leadership is attempting to create a de facto country.  What is interesting is the twinning of their political actions with dates and terms significant to Israel.

The first was the date they chose to receive recognition by the UN for their upgrade was November 29.  This was the date in 1947 on which the United Nations voted to grant a two-state ‘solution’ for the Jewish people and for the Palestinian Arabs.  The Arabs rejected this majority decision, and war broke out in May 1948, immediately after the Jewish leadership proclaimed the new State of Israel.

The other corresponding bizarre twinning is that the Palestinian leadership, under its President Abbas, has chosen to call its virtual country the State of Palestine.  For about the last 1881 years now, it has been sufficient to speak of “Palestine” alone; but today, the perpetual murderous grudge — “if I/we can’t have it, neither will you” — against the sovereignty of the one true God in His choices based on grace and not merit again shows itself in self-grabbing ‘legitimacy’ for itself apart from any merit.  This is the inverse of what is real and ‘normal’:  it is a bizarro world.  (In the Bizarro world of “Htrae” (“Earth” spelled backwards), society is ruled by the Bizarro Code which states “Us do opposite of all Earthly things! Us hate beauty! Us love ugliness! Is big crime to make anything perfect on Bizarro World!”  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bizarro_World )

Let those who do believe in the abiding truth of God’s Word, and who look for that which is perfect to come, remember from whence we ourselves have once come, and pray that the Holy Spirit would act to open the eyes of the blind to see.  The fear of YHVH is the beginning of knowledge, understanding, and wisdom.

It is a time for thanks-giving to YHVH God, even if only for ... Continue reading]]> A ceasefire has just gone into effect betweeen Hamas and Israel in Operation Pillar of Cloud (Defense).  Following eight days of heavy rocket attacks upon mostly southern Israeli cities, but also including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, along with Israeli air strikes on terrorist strongholds, both sides agreed to a ceasefire brokered by the U.S. and Egypt.  How long will this one last before it is broken, and at what cost?

It is a time for thanks-giving to YHVH God, even if only for temporary relief from pain and suffering.  May persons from all sides seek His kingdom and His righteousness for much longer-term genuine peace.

Since last night we have been inundated with a barrage of rocket attacks from Gaza in Beer Sheva.  After more than 100 rockets fired into southern Israel the last few days, the Israeli government decided to act forcefully to hopefully this time cause Hamas and the other terrorist organizations and sponsors of terror to re-consider their policies towards Israel.

Being that the conflict is religiously based, and ultimately spiritual in the ... Continue reading]]> Shalom from Above and within, but not on the ground.

Since last night we have been inundated with a barrage of rocket attacks from Gaza in Beer Sheva.  After more than 100 rockets fired into southern Israel the last few days, the Israeli government decided to act forcefully to hopefully this time cause Hamas and the other terrorist organizations and sponsors of terror to re-consider their policies towards Israel.

Being that the conflict is religiously based, and ultimately spiritual in the heavenlies, no carnal means will actually succeed, but  nonetheless, God can use war to bring people to acknowledge Him and His better way.  http://streamsinthenegev.com/school-of-fish/war/
While all the Islamists claim their right to seek to undermine, and even to destroy, Israel, they do not accept Israel’s right to act against them, calling that an act of war.

With the upcoming historic date of November 29, when the United Nations in 1947 confirmed what had already been initiated by the Nov 2, 1917 Balfour Declaration, and the legal status to recognize the formation of a Jewish homeland in then Palestine at the San Remo conference in 1920, and the League of Nations in 1922, so now is the Palestinian Authority seeking on this very date to have the United Nations upgrade its status to non-member observer state, which would grant it many rights as if it were actually a sovereign nation-state.  Sadly, there are even Christians supporting this move, among them Arab Israelis:  http://www.comeandsee.com/view.php?sid=1202 .  It is possible that this will succeed, but at what price for those who support it?  Do we hear any clear trumpet sounds?  May some of these have their own version of a Damascus Road experience:  they are persecuting Jesus through irrational hatred of Israel; Saul/Paul persecuted Yeshua through the Church.  In both situations the lesson is this:  we are not saved through any righteousness of our own, but only by the grace of God.

We spent most of last night from 8:00 till this morning being ‘wakened’ from ‘sleep’ to go into the bomb shelter.  This morning continued the same until about an hour ago now.  For us, we feel ‘safe’ compared to those who live in areas or neighborhoods which are more used to actual hits.  All of the members of Yeshua’s Inheritance Cong. are reporting that they are okay.  Thank-you for your prayers, and may GOD get more of what HE wants accomplished through this military operation, called Pillar of Cloud.

“Today we are voting for a strong Likud and a strong prime minister,” ... Continue reading]]> Yesterday the Likud central committee agreed to merge their party list with that of Israel Beitanu (Israel Our Home) for the upcoming elections scheduled on January 22, 2013.  The merger of these two nationalist parties is seen as a major political victory for Prime Minister Bibi (Benjamin) Netanyahu to strengthen his position to lead the country.  Israel Beitanu is led by Avigdor Liberman, the current Foreign Minister.

“Today we are voting for a strong Likud and a strong prime minister,” Netanyahu told the crowd to applause.  “The union will allow us to continue leading with strength [and] keep our party national and liberal – for Ashkenazim and Sephardim; traditional, religious and secular; new immigrants and old; minorities and majority; because Likud is everyone’s home.”

Netanyahu referred to rumors that Foreign Minister Avigdor Liberman would succeed him, saying, “I heard talk of inheritances in recent days.”

“I have news for everyone: I plan to lead Israel for many more years, as will Likud,” he added. (emphasis mine)

Naturally speaking, this merger does not bode well for the Messianic community in Israel of believers in Yeshua/Jesus as Messiah; but, on the other hand, our God can use what may seem right in the sight of man to begin to open his eyes to spiritual realities.  Pride comes before a fall.

“Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit”, declares YHVH of Hosts!  Israel’s hope is realized in the one to whom the kingdom belongs:

“A ruin, a ruin, I will make it.  This also will be no more until He comes whose right it is, and I will give it to Him!”  (Ezek 21:27 Eng; Gen 49:10; Ps 2)

The true heir of Israel’s leadership is Yeshua. (Mt 21:38; Mk  12:7; Lk 20:14)  Even so, Come, Lord Jesus!

You can read the full story here:  http://www.lonelyplanet.com/themes/best-in-travel-2013/top-10-regions/#ixzz2AJC9CbUV 

Imagine what it will be like after the Lord Yeshua returns and the desert is turned into a veritable Garden of Eden! (Is 51:3)

On a Channel 2 television interview this evening, Deri and Yishai were interviewed together.  This was a momentous occasion, for both ... Continue reading]]> As in the days of Yeshua’s ministry in Israel about 2000 years ago, when the religious political authorities were led by Annanias and Caiaphas, so today the coalition-maker SHAS party, whose spiritual leader is Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, and political leaders Eli Yishai and Arieh Deri, reflect the corrupting influence of violent men who would take the kingdom by force.

On a Channel 2 television interview this evening, Deri and Yishai were interviewed together.  This was a momentous occasion, for both these men were cooperating for the first time in 13 years since Deri was convicted of bribery in his political office of cabinet minister, and served a three-year prison sentence from 2000.  Whether these two men will be able to maintain the conciliatory air presented publicly now remains to be seen.  Deri said that he saw Shas as a party representing the “have nots” in a country whose social gaps were widening out of control.  Both emphasized in the interview that they have compromised their personal viewpoints for the sake of party unity and the upcoming elections, now scheduled for January 22, 2013.

For those who have taken an interest in the Messianic community in Beer Sheva, the Chief Rabbi of Beer Sheva is Yehuda Deri, the brother of Arieh.  The Israeli Police Chief responsible for Arieh’s indictment for bribery in 1993 was Yaakov Terner, who became the Mayor of Beer Sheva in 1998, the same year that Yehuda Deri became the Chief Rabbi.  In November of that year, the Beer Sheva Chief Rabbi, with the help of Yad L’Achim (an anti-Messianic organization) organized an attack against the Nachalat Yeshua Messianic Congregation in Beer Sheva.

Will the leading Israeli political figures continue to make their pilgrimage to Rav Ovadia Yosef, now that he has brought back an unrepentant convicted criminal to the top of Israel’s power-brokers?  Will the major political parties, led by the Likud, continue to seek SHAS participation a government coalition in the event of a political victory in the upcoming elections?  Will the Israeli voters protest the corruption at the top — and not only of SHAS — in their choices in the next election?  Will  Messianic believers in Yeshua continue to find hope in such a state of affairs, or will we look to the One whom has been appointed by God as His choice of King in Zion?  Jesus says that all who come before Him [to presume to take His rightful place] is a thief and a robber.  May the true Son of the Father return in our days!

May God Most High shine more of His light into many more of the families of Ishmael and of Esau, as He continues to break through the hostility in the minds of those ... Continue reading]]> On the online Arab News, Middle East section, date-line of Saturday, October 6, 2012, (the Islamic year of 1433), Abdulateef Al-Mulhim wrote an opinion piece comparing Israel with the Arab nations.  You can read it here:  http://www.arabnews.com/arab-spring-and-israeli-enemy .  Al-Mulhim is a retired Commodore of the Royal Saudi Navy.

May God Most High shine more of His light into many more of the families of Ishmael and of Esau, as He continues to break through the hostility in the minds of those who have felt excluded from His covenantal goodness.  The God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob continues to bring in the fullness of Gentiles towards His own people Israel’s salvation.

While Iran is given freedom to voice its intentions to wipe Israel ... Continue reading]]> No day passes here in Israel without news about whether or not there will be an Israeli attack on Iran’s developing nuclear bomb facilities.  The United States continues its own diplomatic and political ‘wordfare’ on whether Israel could even succeed, and what the consequences of an Israeli initiative could bring to the world, and whether the U.S. would help Israel in the event of an outbreak of war. 

While Iran is given freedom to voice its intentions to wipe Israel off the map; while Syria continues to massacre its own people; while Egypt continues to advance a strict Islamic agenda and to opportunistically encroach in re-establishing control over the Sinai peninsula, threatening the terms of the Camp David peace agreement with Israel; while Israel is acting and reacting for what it  believes is basic survival, stessed out internally on whether to go it alone, or not to out of fear of failure, or whether her prime benefactor will back her up, could the God of Israel be sovereignly overseeing all things to bring His own chosen people and the nations to fear Him and give Him glory?  What if Israel does not strike first, but retaliates to an attack by one or more of its adversaries?  There is Hizballah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, plus the others already mentioned.

There are prophecies going out that the war as described in Zechariah 12 will break out in December.  Although the winter is not the usual time to begin a war, it is possible that a war could break out then, but not the one described by Zechariah:  that war leads to the Day of Atonements and salvation of ‘all Israel’, when they see Yeshua/Jesus whom they pierced, and He gives them the spirit of grace and supplication to weep and mourn over their historical rejection and hatred of the One who is their very King and Savior.  

Too much attention is being given by even evangelical Christians to the Mayan calendar, which has the end of the world coming at the beginning of this winter.  Believers in the truth of God, and who know His calendar, should have good news to tell those who do not know what is happening, whose religions leave them stranded.  If we ourselves are deceived, how can we point others to The Way?

A war as desribed in Psalm 83, where all the Muslim nations surrounding Israel come together to try to finish  her off, may be coming soon.  The fall  of Damascus, as described in Isaiah 17, may also be looming in the not-so-distant future.  It is interesting to note that in both of these events the people will fear YHVH, the Holy One of Israel, God Most High.  He will act in such a way that the god of the Muslims will be shown as unable to satisfy the deepest longings of those who are under his dominion.  These people are captive slaves, and Jesus has come to set them free!  The Jewish people will fear the LORD, when they once again see Him powerfully act on their behalf to save them from annihilation, beyond what they or anyone else expected.  From this, they, as in  days of old, could seek to appease Him who chose them for His own special people and inheritance.  In every revival that we read about in the Old Testament, the people found the book of the Law and realized that their God was not pleased with them, and they offered sacrifices to  Him.  Could the ‘holy place’ which Yeshua referred to in Matthew 24 be constructed as an outcome of such wars, as God acts on behalf of His holy name to make Himself known and to put some things in place for the fulfillment of His great plan of the ages, “that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in Heaven and which are on Earth” ?

The long-sought particle may complete the standard model of physics by explaining why objects in our universe have mass—and in so doing, why ... Continue reading]]>

Speaking to a packed audience Wednesday morning in Geneva, CERN director general Rolf Heuer confirmed that two separate teams working at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) are more than 99 percent certain they’ve discovered the Higgs boson, aka the God particle—or at the least a brand-new particle exactly where they expected the Higgs to be.

The long-sought particle may complete the standard model of physics by explaining why objects in our universe have mass—and in so doing, why galaxies, planets, and even humans have any right to exist.

“We have a discovery,” Heuer said at the seminar. “We have observed a new particle consistent with a Higgs boson.”  (National Geographic, July 4, 2012)

It is a fascinating testimony to the greatness of God that $10 billion have been spent to build a huge and complex machine to discover the smallest of ‘things’ that scientists call the Higgs bosun particle, or the “God particle”.  After about 40 years of predicting such a thing, the discovery has seemingly been made.

It is written in the book of Daniel in the Bible that in the latter days knowledge will increase (Dan 12:4).  (What about understanding and wisdom?)  This discovery certainly is an interesting find, and takes us to the outer and inner limits of what can be known of the unseen visible world.  True science will confirm truth which the Word of God has already spoken:

“By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.” (Heb 11:3)

“ For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.  And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist.” (Col 1:16-17)

“who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high” (Heb 1:3)

All of these verses speak of Jesus Christ being the Creator of the “God particle”!  Praise the Lord, and give glory to Him!

Reading the newspaper today is not much different from having read it last week.  Oh, there are some different ‘personal interest’ stories which are often quickly  forgotten, but mostly it is a rehash of things which continue, and which have been ... Continue reading]]> Today is the first day of Summer and the longest day[light] of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.  It looks to be a hot summer here in Israel.  But then, that is not so new as to be news.

Reading the newspaper today is not much different from having read it last week.  Oh, there are some different ‘personal interest’ stories which are often quickly  forgotten, but mostly it is a rehash of things which continue, and which have been largely  rumors and speculations of political intrigues at the national and the global geopolitical realms.

There have been more rocket attacks into southern Israel during the last few days, and Israeli retaliation to a degree.  This all began with snipers from Sinai killing an Israeli contractor who was working on building a security fence on the border with ‘Egypt’.  Egypt, of course, is in political and social turmoil as some Egyptians seek real change, and others seek to exploit the power struggle.  None of this bodes well for Israel either, but it does give hope to those who believe in Israel’s God who would have many of these Gentiles saved and make them lovers of Jesus and of His beloved Jewish people.

Jack Teitel – who has confessed to ‘hate crimes’ based on his distorted ideology and perception of reality, including murdering in cold blood two Palestinians just for being Arabs; trying to murder a Messianic Jewish family just for being believers in Yeshua and wanting others to be, too; trying to kill a left-wing professor for not being right-wing — has, despite refusing to accept Israel’s justice system, been allowed a plea bargain whereby  he does not have to say anything himself, but his lawyers will admit that he did these crimes — not out of ‘hate’, but out of temporary insanity each time that he committed these acts of terror.  No evidence will be presented to the public; he will, if the court rules in favor, simply go to a psychiatric hospital for a few years.  For too many, this, too, is not new to make news:  Israel protects its perilous life and identity at the expense of those whom they perceive  threaten it.

In an idolatrous and ‘evolutionary world’, it is survival of the fittest, and might makes right:  the violent and forceful seek to enter, and to hold onto, the kingdom.  In the ways of YHVH, Israel’s God and Savior, the meek shall inherit the Land and the Earth when the Lord returns in great power and glory.

Thank God for Jesus!  The gospel is good news in a bad-news world.

Last night and today Israelis remembered all those who sacrificed their lives in the numerous ... Continue reading]]> Tonight Israel celebrates her 64th year of ‘independence’.  These 64 years certainly give reason for people everywhere to pay heed to her miraculous revival as a nation: whether if from God according to Biblical prophecy; or of man apart from any direct intervention of God; or merely a quirk of history allowed for in the sovereignty of God ruling through history, without any specific purpose.

Last night and today Israelis remembered all those who sacrificed their lives in the numerous wars from the beginning in 1948, as well as those killed in the many terrorist  attacks during the past 25 years.  The Passover was recently remembered, when unnumbered first-borns of Egyptians were killed as a price of Pharaoh’s hardness of heart.  Shortly afterward, Israel remembered the 6,000,000 Jewish people deliberately and systematically victimized,  killed, and stripped of all dignity (including tattooed numbers for identity, and cremation) in the Holocaust by the Nazi regime of WWII.

Israel’s history is replete with suffering and death as the price of gaining freedom and liberty.  Messiah Yeshua/Jesus suffered the shame and brutality of the cross for the victory and glory which came forth from His sacrificial suffering and death.  It is with much tribulation that we enter the Kingdom of Heaven.  Israel is given as an example (not a contrast) to the Church.

We look forward to that day when the full remnant from all the tribes of Israel will return to YHVH their God through calling on the only One given to her for deliverance and salvation — blessing the Lord Jesus Christ who alone will come in the name of YEHOVAH — and looking on Him whom they have pierced.  Their true freedom will come when they become fully dependent upon their Father and His Son.

May we see this in our generation!

The conference website is very clear that the purpose of the conference — despite having the two Israeli pastors speak — is ... Continue reading]]> There is a conference beginning today in Bethlehem, which is named Christ At The Checkpoint.  There is much controversy over this conference within the Messianic Body here in Israel, and also from those abroad, including regarding the participation of two local pastors.  The secular Israeli media that has reported on the conference sees it as anti-Israel and anti-Semitic.

The conference website is very clear that the purpose of the conference — despite having the two Israeli pastors speak — is to express a Palestinian perspective which denies that the return of the Jewish people back to this land has anything to do with God fulfilling His Word (which, again, is forever settled in Heaven – Ps 119:89-91), written and affirmed in both the Old and the New Testaments.

This week of the conference falls during the Jewish holiday of Purim (coincidence?), made famous from the Bible book of Esther.  With respect to the conference, do pray that God will bring good out from it — even within it — as only He can.

Jacob received his new and spiritual name, Israel, only after he had struggled with the Man all night, the night before he would meet again his brother Esau after deceitfully obtaining the birthright and blessing from ... Continue reading]]> Today, Israel is acting like Jacob — caring for the things of God, but seeking them by their own abilities in their own strength, rather than by the Spirit of YHVH, the God of Abraham and the Fear of Isaac. (Gen 31:42; Zech 4:6)

Jacob received his new and spiritual name, Israel, only after he had struggled with the Man all night, the night before he would meet again his brother Esau after deceitfully obtaining the birthright and blessing from their father Isaac. (Gen 32)  Jacob knew from early on in his life that the covenant of God with his father and grandfather was something of great value.  Esau did not care for such things of future destiny.  He cared only about the present moment. 

Jacob had struggled with his uncle Laban; with the knowledge that his brother wanted to kill him and deprive him of the inheritance which he himself (Esau/Edom) would never inherit.  Now Jacob, hoping to find favor in Esau’s eyes — hoping that he might not kill him, and allow him to live peaceably — was rightly fearful. (Gen 33)

Jacob met ‘the Man’ — who was Peniel/The Face of God — and struggled with Him all night.  Jacob would not let Him go until He blessed him.  The Man, whose name is Wonderful, gave Jacob — who acknowledged his name as such — a new name:  Israel, meaning “He will reign with God”, or, “God will reign”. (Gen 32:28;and reminded again at Gen 35:9-12) 

Israel will reign with the God who reigns after he has persevered in the continuing struggle with man and God . . . and prevails when she at last sees Him whom they have pierced, and all their sins are forgiven and put away.  (Zech 12:10-14; Rom 11:25-36)  Then, the natural strength of Jacob will be forever broken — as typified when The Man merely touched the socket of Jacob’s hip, laming him for the rest of his life as a reminder — and in their weakness and dependence upon their God, Israel will know His mighty ability and strength, who could have overwhelmed him. (2Cor 11:22-30; 12:7-10; Mt 26:30-35,69-75)  Both Peter and Paul are given to us to learn the way of the cross as we follow the Lamb.  Thank God for His grace!

Israel has been given as an example to the Church.  The God of Jacob (Gen 3:13-15; Acts 3:12-13) works His redeeming glory in Christians just as He does in the Jewish people.  Not all Israel is Israel; not all the Church is the Church — but those, like Jacob, who overcome — by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.  Not by ability, nor by power, but by the grace of our God.  And we will rule and reign with Messiah Yeshua! (Rev 12:10-11; 2:24-28; 3:19-22)

Our struggle and tribulation with man, with nations, within families, with history, with God will go on until the end, just as Israel’s and the Jewish people. (Mt 24:9-14)  Let us press on in faith in the goodness of our Father, and His exceedingly great and precious promises which He has given us through Jesus, enduring, so that after we have done the will of God, we may receive the promise of the resurrection and eternal life. (2Pt 1:1-4; Heb 10:3239) 

Psalm 129:1-5  A song of ascents

‘ “Many a time they have afflicted me from my youth,”, let Israel now say — “Many a time they have afflicted me from my youth; yet they have not prevailed against me!   ”The plowers plowed my back; they made their furrows long.”

YHVH is righteous; He has cut in pieces the cords of the wicked.  Let all those who hate Zion be put to shame and turned back. . . .’

Praise the Lord!

That being so,then Arab peoples get to Abraham through Esau/Edom,Jacob’s twin brother,and through Ishmael,Isaac’s half-brother.  Perhaps the Palestinians aren’t an “invented people” after all, but have simply lost track of, or disconnected from, their Semitic roots.

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the Middle East today is ... Continue reading]]> A scientific study was done some years ago,which indicates that the genetic heritage between Jewish people and [some of] the Arabs shows that they have a common ancestor —Abraham —just as the Bible records. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2000/05/000509003653.htm

That being so,then Arab peoples get to Abraham through Esau/Edom,Jacob’s twin brother,and through Ishmael,Isaac’s half-brother.  Perhaps the Palestinians aren’t an “invented people” after all, but have simply lost track of, or disconnected from, their Semitic roots.

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the Middle East today is the culmination of the same family feud over the inheritance which has gone on for millennia (not a mere 100 years!), and Israel’s re-emergence as a nation-state has brought the family feud to the boiling point.  This feud is founded in covenant, and so defies solutions which may apply to any other conflict between nations or people groups.  Both the Jewish people and the Arabic peoples show ourselves to be the children of our fathers in spirit,even if we can not produce the documents!  Science has confirmed the Scriptures!

Shalom B, B, Y,

I looked on Come and See, hoping that I might see in writing what I am not hearing, but am both disappointed and disturbed:  where is the Israeli/Palestinian (call it whatever you want) Arab Christian voice expressing outrage over what is taking place in Syria?!  

Why ... Continue reading]]> If the Arab ‘Spring’ is wintry, how cold is its winter?!  This is an exchange of e-emails with some Arab leaders in Israel and the Palestinian Authority that I had:

Shalom B, B, Y,

I looked on Come and See, hoping that I might see in writing what I am not hearing, but am both
disappointed and disturbed:  where is the Israeli/Palestinian (call it whatever you want) Arab Christian voice expressing outrage over what is taking place in Syria?!  

Why are only Israeli “injustices and human rights violations, etc.” condemned in the strongest of language
and emotion by you and other of my Arab brothers, when right next door one of ‘your own’ is ruthlessly
murdering its citizens and fellow human beings — men, women, children — without the slightest pangs
of conscience?  Where is the concern for the fellow Christians in Syria, not to mention all the other
Syrians who are oppressed?  Christian leaders there have even expressed support for the government out
of fear of their own lives and churches.  Where is the voice of their Israeli/Palestinian fellow Christians
to stand and be strong for the testimony of the truth of Yasu, not loving their lives even unto death?  Why
are you not calling on the ‘world community’ to put a stop to the bloodshed and oppressive policies of the
brutal dictators, who are clearly no true shepherds or friends of their own people and nation?

Not saying anything publicly — and in a manner that all can hear and see — is hypocritical in the face of
all the efforts to condemn Israel and to delegitimize her right to even exist or to be supported due to her
lack of righteousness and justice against you as you perceive it — rightly or otherwise.

Your brother and fellow laborer in the vineyard of the Lord,
Howard

P.S.  My opinion article on War was not written as a ‘theology’ of war.  We don’t have to make a theology
of every subject, but simply teach according to the Word of God, the knowledge of God and His ways given
to us in the Scriptures.  I would appreciate it if you simply title the piece as War.  The photo you put in is
also editorial on your part — adding to the suggestion that I somehow am in favor of war and its horrors.

Most of you will remember the court battle in Beer Sheva between the Messianic believers and the orthodox community.  In the natural,one might say it didn’t turn out well considering all the time, energy, resources, prayer, and heart that was sown during those days.  We generally expect victory to look a certain way.  As we perceived it,that battle was not really about right and wrong or our reputation.   Our hearts’ desire was that ... Continue reading]]> (quoted from Arni Klein, Klein Fax, 20 Jan 2012)

Most of you will remember the court battle in Beer Sheva between the Messianic believers and the orthodox community.  In the natural,one might say it didn’t turn out well considering all the time, energy, resources, prayer, and heart that was sown during those days.  We generally expect victory to look a certain way.  As we perceived it,that battle was not really about right and wrong or our reputation.   Our hearts’ desire was that the souls imprisoned by a cultish religious structure would be freed.

Over recent months the darkness of the orthodox system has been front-page news.  The cover has been pulled back revealing their intolerance of any one different as being quite ugly and surprisingly violent.  Could it be that we are witnessing an unexpected face of victory?  Rather than this spirit being bound, it is being given more freedom so all might see it as it really is.  Many have long been at the edge of this community unable to take the step out to the freedom their heart longs for.

Beloved, this is a strategic time to focus our prayers on those that are hearing the Lord calling.  May this exposure be the push that gives those that really do love the truth the strength and conviction to make the break.

The Law ... Continue reading]]> In recent days and weeks, certain sects within the ultra-orthodox Jewish religious community, especially in Jerusalem and in Beit Shemesh, have openly displayed their utter contempt towards women.  This manifests a similar spirit seen in Islam, and is also the attitude of the antichrist. (Dan 11:37; 2Tim 3:3)  This contemptible behavior is in accord with the prayer in the Talmud (the sacred oral law and tradition of rabbinic Judaism), in which the men thank God for not making them women!

The Law of Moses, with all its seeming inequalities between males and females, nonetheless elevates women to a far higher status than in the laws and customs of the gentile nations of those times.  In the New Testament, brought in with the gospel (good news) of Jesus Christ, God further elevated the status and dignity of women, seen in numerous verses and passages throughout the gospels and epistles.  There are still differences in matters of priorities and service, but males and females are completely equal and loved in God’s estimation, and both are being converted into the image of the Son of God.  All are priests of God in Messiah; the Body of Christ is the Bride of the Lamb; husbands are admonished and commanded to love their wives as themselves.

The Gospel of Luke especially shows the Lord Jesus as a friend of downtrodden women, downcast women, widows, even of fallen and sinful women.  His whole manner and attitude towards women was one of utmost respect and mercy.  The Holy Spirit lifts the head of women to a station of honor, in which they do not need to feel less than men and put down, but can find their fulfillment in that for which God created and redeemed them to bring honor and glory to the LORD first of all, and to their husbands, if they are married. (Prov 31)  The contempt of darkened religious perversion of the love and truth of God toward women has no place in the heart and mind of men who also know the love and humility of the Lion of the Tribe of Judah who comes as the Lamb of God.

May many Jewish and Muslim women begin to look to the true God of Heaven and Earth for their joy and hope of salvation from the oppression, subjugation, and hatred which they suffer under, and find their liberty and dignity in the Lover and Healer of their souls.

From the beginning till the end of the year, our Lord and God watches over His people and His land! (Dt 11:12)  God ‘found’ His Sabbath rest in His Son, who came to bring the old order of things to an end that the light of a new way and day could be brought to mankind.

At our ... Continue reading]]> The Light has come, and the daylight begins to push away the darkness of winter days.  Spring must be in the air!

From the beginning till the end of the year, our Lord and God watches over His people and His land! (Dt 11:12)  God ‘found’ His Sabbath rest in His Son, who came to bring the old order of things to an end that the light of a new way and day could be brought to mankind.

At our Shabbat service, we celebrated the Festival of Lights, giving priority to the true Light who is eternal that came into the world to push back the darkness, over the temporal Hanukah lights of candles or oil which must be continually watched over to remain lit before they eventually do burn out.  As is our custom, we lit all of the candles on the hanukia (the menora or lampstand of Hanukah), as a visual testimony to the truth that the full light of God has come into the world through His Son, and He has made us light in the darkness).  The Lord’s Supper was also a wonderful part of the service — remembering Yeshua’s death until He comes. 

Being that we have many different cultures and languages among our congregation of Yeshua’s Inheritance, there was a presentation of songs by some of the different groups — such as Hebrew, Spanish, English, Russian, Korean, Burmese.  That which began at Pentecost with different tongues all praising the living God together has grown and increased to multitudes of redeemed people from out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation by the blood of the Lamb, singing a new song to Yeshua who was slain to bring us to God the Father.  Hallelu-Yah!  Amen! (Rev 5:9)

With these two universally known Hebrew words — both of which speak of the true God and Savior (Rev 3:14) — we visited Bethlehem yesterday on Christmas Day with two other families from our congregation, and some medical students and other friends.  We went first to an Evangelical Church, where we have been going since 2003 — during the Intifada — as an expression of the reconciliation which we have through the cross, even though our peoples continue to be in a perpetual state of hostility with each other.

At the Arab church there I was asked to share some introductory words from my heart, and spoke of the hope we all have through the gospel, which includes that Jesus will come back again to bring the Kingdom of God to Israel and the rest of the world.  Political solutions will not satisfy the need for the righteousness of God, the peace which He gives, and joy in the Holy Spirit.  At the end of the service, I was asked to bless the elders and the church with the priestly blessing in Hebrew, the language of the ‘enemy’.  I gently reminded the brothers and sisters there to remember that the name of YEHOVAH God is still upon His people Israel, and asked them to pray for the Jewish Israeli people to honor His name and of His Son.  Then I blessed them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.  It was a very special time, and I thank the Lord that the pastor took the risk (and it is a risk!) to ask me for this honor.

After the service, we all (13 adults and 5 children) had a wonderful lunch at his home.  Then we went over to Beit Al Liqa — the extraordinary facility of the children’s ministry (of all ages) in Beit Jala.   http://www.beitliqa.org/eng/eng_home_page.html   There we enjoyed our final legendary hospitality of the rainy day, and were able to see how the work is still developing.  It was a very encouraging day, which only the Spirit of Messiah knows how to do!

After all the claims by Palestinians delegitimizing Israel’s right to exist, the Islamic repudiation of any Jewish history connected to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, and the denial even by many (if not most) Palestinian Arab Christians of God’s everlasting covenants connected with Abraham, with ... Continue reading]]> Yesterday, in an interview on a U.S. cable network, Newt Gringrich, a Republican Presidential candidate, said that the Palestinian people are “invented”.  This, of course, raised an outcry from Palestinian Arab political, religioius, and intellectual leaders.

After all the claims by Palestinians delegitimizing Israel’s right to exist, the Islamic repudiation of any Jewish history connected to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, and the denial even by many (if not most) Palestinian Arab Christians of God’s everlasting covenants connected with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob and their posterity . . . it is the utmost hypocrisy for them to call “despicable” and “very racist” the remarks made by Gringrich regarding their identity and history.

Israel and the Jewish people have a long recorded history written in the whole of the Bible, and also in extra-Biblical sources.  The Israeli people from the beginning has never been about a “pure race or bloodline”:  there has always been mixture, yet with a clear sense of belonging to and identity with this particular people and nation.  This has been so in religion and peoplehood, for Israel’s existence comes from YHVH God Himself.

I know many Palestinian evangelical believers in Yeshua as Lord and Messiah, yet who do not know where they come from or who they are — other than to say that they are Palestinian Arabs, because their families were born in Palestine — a name given to the Land of Israel by the Romans after the final Jewish revolt in 132 AD, a name which derives from the Philistia (Philistines), and which means ‘invaders’ in the Hebrew Holy Spirit-inspired Scriptures.

These brothers in Messiah/Christ admit to not agreeing that they are necessarily Semites (from Noah’s son, Shem), which would mean that they are not then sons of Abraham.  They do not accept necessarily that they are sons of Ishmael — which of course they would not be if not sons of Abraham.  They do not accept any lineage with Esau/Edom.  They do not know who they are, but accept being a mixed race (which the word ‘Arab’ actually implies — ‘mixture’), and want us Israeli Jewish believers to be confused as to who we are, too, since we are also mixed through intermarriage with Gentiles.  (Again, Biblically, there has always been mixture within Israel, yet still an identifiable nation with detailed genealogies over centuries and thousands of years, one of the proofs as to who Jesus Christ is in the flesh.)

Apart from the Biblical record in the Old and the New Testaments, there will always be ‘inventions’ and confusion if we ignore the truth, and for those who do believe in Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God, the Bible is supposed to our primary source for information, and the Scriptures are written for us living at the end of the age.

Judaism and the Jewish people also attempt to revise and re-write history with respect to the truth of who Yeshua/Jesus is and of His resurrection.  Islam and Muslims in their holy book, the Koran, have re-written history connected with the name of the true God, with Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac, with Jesus being the Son of God the Father, with His virgin birth and His death and resurrection.  Christians have gone beyond what is written in showing hostility toward the Jewish people and God’s faithfulness to restore them to favor in the Land of Israel which He promised long ago to be an everlasting possession, but not a “Jews only” state.  Even Jewish believers in Yeshua are not without inventions, not willing to accept many truths which the Holy Spirit has taught the predominantly Gentile church over the last 2000 years.

Stereotypes such as all Jews are Christ killers; or all Christians are anti-Semites; or all Muslims are terrorists are not helpful when true disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ are taught to speak the truth in righteousness and in love.  Most inventions of the mind or of lying spirits are an effort to give dignity and significance to ourselves or to our nation or our religious beliefs, especially when we think God or history writing has been “unbalanced”.  Just as the serpent beguiled Eve to think that she would be like God through disobeying Him, so is it foolish human pride seeking to find purpose and value through any thing other than the truth of the God who created us, spoke concerning callings and destinies of many peoples, and loves us to give us living hope of glory through repentance from our unbelief and rebellion towards faith in Him and His Word.

In this season when the birth of the King of the Jews and the Savior of the world is traditionally celebrated — especially by believers who can worship God in Spirit and truth — let us remember that Jesus died asking the Father to forgive us, especially for being ignorant of all that we have done and still do against Yehovah, and against His Anointed One.  He is coming again, and will bring righteous judgment against all who oppose Him and those upon whom is His goodwill.

Israel offered immediate rescue assistance to Turkey, but the Turkish government refused the initial request, saying they could manage without Israel’s expertise.  With the suffering and emotions rising, the Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan changed his mind, and asked Israel for help with pre-fabricated temporary housing units, which Israel was quick to dispatch.

Turkey, as ... Continue reading]]> On Sunday Turkey suffered a powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake, killing hundreds, injuring over a thousand, destroying more than 2000 buildings, leaving thousands homeless and struggling.

Israel offered immediate rescue assistance to Turkey, but the Turkish government refused the initial request, saying they could manage without Israel’s expertise.  With the suffering and emotions rising, the Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan changed his mind, and asked Israel for help with pre-fabricated temporary housing units, which Israel was quick to dispatch.

Turkey, as leader of the Islamic Ottoman Empire for 400 years in Palestine, until defeated in 1917 by the British allied forces, had in recent years been an ally of Israel in the region.  More recently, under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Turkey has reverted to its hostility towards the sovereign Jewish nation, and has acted as a provocateur and an enemy.

Despite this, the God of Israel has instilled in His people an ethic that makes little logical sense, yet calls for a higher standard than other nations with other gods.  Christians as individuals are called to this standard in a more knowledgeable way, with the example of the Lord Jesus Christ not only teaching, but also demonstrating the way:

Mt 5:43-48

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.  For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?  And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so?  Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.”

Pr 25:21-22

“If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; 
      And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; 
       For so you will heap coals of fire on his head,
      And YHVH will reward you.”

Rom 12:17-21

“Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men.  If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.  Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.  Therefore,
      “ If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
      If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
      For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.”

  Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

Israel’s history is full of mourning turned ... Continue reading]]> Gilad Shalit, the Israeli soldier held captive for more than five years by Hamas in Gaza, came back home yesterday, October 18.  It was a day of much anticipation and emotion throughout the nation.  When we saw Gilad walking out from the car which took him out of Hamas’ hands into those of the Egyptians — meaning that he had been freed — it was a moment of tears of joy and thanksgiving.

Israel’s history is full of mourning turned to joy, even if only temporal and temporary.  It looks forward to the day when the Israeli Jewish people will look upon Him whom they have pierced — upon Yeshua who is the greater Son of Israel — and the mourning throughout the millennia will be healed and bring unspeakable joy everlasting.  Jesus will be welcomed and blessed back home to His natural born family.  War will end, and righteousness and peace will reign, and the enemy will be subdued.

Israel is a family:  when one member suffers, all suffer with it; when one is honored, all rejoice wth him.  Yesterday, many are still suffering from the pain of being victims of terrible violent acts against them and their loved ones.  Yet yesterday, ‘all’ Israel rejoiced for Gilad Shalit and his family — and for being Israeli.

Our God is an awesome God!  He is the God of individual persons personally — the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob.  He is the God of a people, of a nation, of a family – the God of Israel.  He is a Father to His children — the God and Father of the Lord Jesus Christ.  He is not the God of a religion, and is never called the God of Judaism, or the God of Christianity.  He is the one true living God who is in personal and corporate relationship with those in covenant union with Him.

Yesterday, Israel and Israelis celebrated life.  There was the sound of joy and laughter ‘in the hills of Judah and the streets of Jerusalem’ around the country.  It was a day of dignity and honor, in contrast to those who prefer the sword and cruelty.  Praise the Lord!  “For who is God, except YEHOVAH!  And who is a Rock, except our God!”

May many Muslims be provoked to jealousy and seek the Father who does love them.  May many Jewish people take heart at the truth of the one Man, Yeshua Messiah/Jesus Christ, giving Himself as a sacrifice revealing the grace of God and the gift by that grace of the forgiveness of sins — removing the warfare from off us, and giving us peace — not as the world gives, and which surpasses understanding.

This evening marks the end of Succot/the Feast of Booths, and the Joy of the Law/Simchat Torah is celebrated.  May the Jewish people all over the world return back to the God of their fathers, and rejoice in Him!

The streets of Beer Sheva are full of children laughing and playing in the streets, ... Continue reading]]> Today is the 10th day of the 7th month in the Biblical Hebrew calendar.  It is the holiest day in the Jewish year; it is the Sabbath of Sabbaths, and today is, in fact, also the Sabbath day.  This day is called the Day of Atonements (Yom Ha-Kippurim; Yom Kippur)  You can read its significance in chapters 16 and 23 of Leviticus in the Torah.

The streets of Beer Sheva are full of children laughing and playing in the streets, as cars are not being driven on the roads.  Synagogues of full of people seeking God’s forgiveness of their sins, with the hope that He would grant them another year of life.  The Book of Jonah is read in the synagogues on this most holy day:  the very sign which Messiah Yeshua gave to His people who are still rejecting Him for who He is – that of Jonah — has sovereignly been placed into the liturgy of this most sacred day for the Jewish people to read!

What is striking about YHVH God’s requirements for this day on behalf of the children of Israel is that the nation should afflict its soul.  The nation is made up of individuals, each one of whom is called to afflict his/her soul.  There is no specific commandment to fast from eating:  fasting in itself does not afflict one’s soul; but if one’s soul is afflicted, he will not want to eat.

The Biblical record in the Old and the New Testaments does not really give us an account of Israel observing the Day of Atonements.  Even in the book of Nehemiah, chapter 8, there is the account of the people observing the first day of the seventh month — the Memorial of the Blowing of Shofars/Trumpets — and then the celebration of Booths, which begins on the evening of the 14th of the month (the 15th day).  Yom Kippur is skipped over in the account.

Looking ahead, we read in Zechariah chapter 12 that that day is coming when all Israel — the full remnant which remains from all the tribes — who will look on Him — on Jesus/Yeshua — whom we have pierced.  And then there will be a great travail of soul within each Israeli as part of a national/corporate reality.  When Israel finally sees and accepts her sin against the Father and the Son — the very One who has preserved them, and who gave up His life for them that their sins would be forgiven and removed — there will be a great affliction of soul, and God will dwell in the midst of His people.

For the Christian — those who call upon the name of the Lord Jesus Christ — has your soul been afflicted for the sins of the Church against the truth of Jesus?  When we read the assessment of the Lord Jesus Himself concerning His churches in chapters 2 and 3 of the Revelation of Jesus Christ, and His call to each person within the churches to hear what the Spirit is saying, have you ever experienced an affliction of your soul for your own part in that?  Have we ever been broken to the point of weeping for our own sinfulness, not merely over some sins we may be committing?

Rom 7:12   For indeed the Law is holy, and the commandment is holy and just and good.

Rom 7:13  Then has that which is good become death to me? Let it not be! But sin, that it might appear to be sin, working death in me by that which is good; in order that sin might become exceedingly sinful by the commandment.

Rom 7:14  For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin.

Rom 7:15  For that which I do, I know not. For what I desire, that I do not do; but what I hate, that I do.

Rom 7:16  If then I do that which I do not desire, I consent to the law that it is good.

Rom 7:17  But now it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwells in me.

Rom 7:18  For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) dwells no good thing. For to will is present with me, but how to perform that which is good I do not find.

Rom 7:19  For I do not do the good that I desire; but the evil which I do not will, that I do.

Rom 7:20  But if I do what I do not desire, it is no more I working it out, but sin dwelling in me.

Rom 7:21  I find then a law: when I will to do the right, evil is present with me.

Rom 7:22  For I delight in the Law of God according to the inward man;

Rom 7:23  but I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin being in my members.

Rom 7:24  O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death?! 

Rom 7:25  I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord!  So then with the mind I myself serve the Law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin.

As the Jewish New Year approaches next week, it is good to remember that Biblically, it is actually the beginning of the seventh month given by God to Israel, and is actually called a Memorial of the Blowing/Shout of Trumpets (see Lev 23).  It is His redemptive calendar within His comprehensive year.  We who have been born-again and are now seated with Yeshua in heavenly places are given a view of the whole of what YHVH is ... Continue reading]]> New Week greetings,

As the Jewish New Year approaches next week, it is good to remember that Biblically, it is actually the beginning of the seventh month given by God to Israel, and is actually called a Memorial of the Blowing/Shout of Trumpets (see Lev 23).  It is His redemptive calendar within His comprehensive year.  We who have been born-again and are now seated with Yeshua in heavenly places are given a view of the whole of what YHVH is doing within time, which still has another 1000 years or so (see Is 65:17-25 in light of Rev 20.  Isaiah is referring to a ‘born-again/regenerated’  perfectly “very good” new heavens and new earth, a ‘new creation’, just as we are now; and in both there is still sin and death.  John’s view of the New Heavens and New Earth is the eternal one following the final judgment, and there is no more sin with its consequences in that “perfect” which is to come (1Cor 13:10).)

Being the 7th month of redemption, God is finishing up His work, not beginning it.  The appointed times/holy days of this Hebrew month are collectively called the Celebration of Ingathering the harvest (Ex23:16; 34:22), especially as related to the redemption and salvation of Israel and the Jewish people, and through Messiah Jesus, that of other nations and Gentiles.  Trumpets begin to regather the people; seeing Yeshua whom we/they have pierced is the day of salvation for ‘all Israel’ (the full remnant from all the tribes), and judgment of the Lord’s enemies, both within and without; and Booths/Tabernacles is the presence of the Lord literally dwelling amongst His forgiven and cleansed people Israel during the Kingdom of God on Earth.  May He come speedily in our generation:  Even so, Come, Lord Jesus!

Tuning the ears for the sound of the right trumpet sound. . . .

Is the God of Israel the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth — of the Universe?

Is YHVH (YEHOVAH or YAHWEH) the name of the one true God, or is some other god with another name?

Is the true God a Father with a Son and a people (other children)?  Or is the true God not a father and childless?

Was Abraham a ... Continue reading]]> Is the Bible — the Old and the New Testaments — true, or is the Koran?

Is the God of Israel the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth — of the Universe?

Is YHVH (YEHOVAH or YAHWEH) the name of the one true God, or is some other god with another name?

Is the true God a Father with a Son and a people (other children)?  Or is the true God not a father and childless?

Was Abraham a Muslim prophet who served the god of Islam?  Or was Abraham a Hebrew, who worshiped YHVH, the Everlasting God Almighty?

Did Abraham take Isaac, his covenant son, to offer him a sacrifice to YHVH, who intervened to prevent it?  Or did Abraham take Ishmael to offer as a sacrifice?

Is Yeshua/Jesus the Son of God, or merely a prophet?

Did Jesus/Yeshua die for our sins on the cross, or did He not?

Did Jesus rise from among the dead, or did He not?

Did the God of the Bible, the God and Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, covenant with an oath to give the descendants of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Israel a specific land for an inheritance, within the whole of the nations with boundaries which He has determined?

Is the Lord Jesus Christ coming again physically to establish the Kingdom of God on this Earth for 1000 years?

Who is your God?  Are you saved?

Should believers in Yeshua/Jesus ... Continue reading]]> Israel and her supporters will be disappointed with the results of the vote in the United Nations scheduled for September 20 regarding either a mere upgrade of Palestinian status at the UN, or else the recognition of an independent Palestinian state.  This vote is despite, and in spite of, all international agreements previous regarding rules of war and of guarantees for a sovereign Jewish nation.  It will mark a significant retreat of human support for Israel.

Should believers in Yeshua/Jesus as Lord, Messiah, Son of God, Savior be disappointed . . . or should the state of affairs be a wake-up call.  In Hebrew, the word for someone ‘waking up’ is the same word for ‘revival’:  revival is for those who are alive, but drowsy or sleeping.  Are we alert to the times in which we are living, or are we just as uncertain as those in whom the Spirit of God is not dwelling?

When Yeshua was asked to state plainly by what authority He was doing what He was, He asked those who should have known by then to answer Him first:  ‘The baptism of John, where was it from?  Was it from Heaven, or from men?’ (Mt 21:25) This is the question that needs to be answered also concerning Israel today.  The viewpoint one takes on this issue will obviously greatly affect how we relate to her.  Jesus would wish that we were hot or cold, and not sit on the fence. (Rev 3:14-15)  When Jesus was being crucified, the rulers and leaders of the nation mocked Him, saying, “. . .He trusted in God; let Him deliver him now, if He will have him; for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’”. . .  “The rest said, ‘Leave him alone; let us see if Elijah will come to save him!’” (Mt 27:41-49) 

Israel claims to be the chosen people and nation of God, and many nations and peoples are watching and observing to see whether or not this is true.

God has givenIsraelas an example to the Church, and what happens towardsIsraelwill also happen towards the Church:  first the natural; then the spiritual.  If people want to makeIsraelthe scapegoat for all the world’s troubles, they will also make Christians scapegoats.  And they will be ‘justified’ by the false teaching that if only believers would pray and intercede more; engage in more effective spiritual warfare; take over the reigns of society, then the world would be a better place.  Yet it is clear that the world is becoming increasingly lawless, stressful, and nervous.

A ‘Pharoah spirit’ is rising.  One that does not know Yeshua nor the Father.  And it is making life more arduous for those who fear YHVH and for those who know Him personally.  This anti-christ spirit attacks all who are called by the name of God – whether they be Jewish or Christian.  Judgments from God will come, and He will save and deliver His people.  YHVH cuts (makes) and keeps His covenants, and He is a Savior to those whose trust is whole-heartedly in Him.  Our hearts deceive us, and He gives us a new heart as a promise of the New Covenant in the blood of His Son, which we are to guard. (Jer 17:9-10; 31:33; Ezek 36:26; Mt 15:18-19)  According to God’s covenants, He will bless those who bless the seed of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, and He will curse him who makes light of them.  This also would apply to how Jewish people (the House of Jacob) consider especially Christian believers, who are also of the seed of Abraham through faith.

The UN vote on Sept. 20 will be used by God towards bringingIsraeland the Jewish people to call upon Him, leading more to repentance towards God.  And further, to bring more Jewish people and others who are genuinely concerned for their well-being to the redemption through the Redeemer, the Lamb of God who died – was slaughtered – to confirm YHVH God’s promises to the fathers and to their descendants, and that the Gentiles might glorify God for His mercy. (Rom 15:8-9)

If Israel has broken God’s covenants, why should it be a wonder that the nations will break their human treaties and agreements concerning Israel?!

As the nations seem more and more willing to sacrifice one nation so that not all the nations should perish from religious and nationalistic terrorists, and from others ‘doing what is right in their own eyes’, Bible-believing Christians should show mercy, and stand with the beloved enemy Israel for Jesus’ sake, as a nation back in [part of] the land promised to be an everlasting possession from YHVH, whose land it is, as is the whole Earth. (Rom 11:25-36)

http://www.ec4i.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=128:give-pe

If a Mormon like Glenn Beck, and other ”unsaved” actors and ordinary persons, can take a strong public stand in support of the legitimate and moral right of Israel to not only exist, but also to be supported, ... Continue reading]]> Here is an excellent link to a presentation presenting the legitimacy of Israel from a legal and historic perspective.  As you know, the Palestinians are trying to get the UN later in September to nullify previous historic legal agreements regarding Israel.

http://www.ec4i.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=128:give-pe

If a Mormon like Glenn Beck, and other ”unsaved” actors and ordinary persons, can take a strong public stand in support of the legitimate and moral right of Israel to not only exist, but also to be supported, how is that so many Jewish people and Bible-believing Christians do not?

Taking some liberty, I ‘quote’ from Romans 2:25-29 :  For ‘baptism’ is indeed profitable is you keep
the ‘integrity of the Law and the Prophets’; but if you are a breaker of the ‘Word of God’, your ‘baptism’ has become ‘un-baptism’.  Therefore, if an ‘un-Christian person’ keeps the ‘truth of God’s promises’ will not his ‘unbaptism’ be counted as ‘baptism’?  And will not the ‘spiritually unbaptized’, if he fulfills the ‘commandments and instruction of God’, judge you who, with your written ‘Scriptures’ and ‘baptism’, are a transgressor of ‘them’?

And almost directly from John 3:10-12 :  Yeshua answered and said to [Nicodemus], ‘Are you the teacher of Israel (‘and of the Church’), and do not know these things?  Most assuredly, I say to you, we speak what we know and testify what we have seen, and you do not receive our witness.  If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?!‘ 

What we are seeing happening before our very eyes in these days and times is bringing us nearer to that Day:
‘ For behold, in those days and that time, when I bring back the captives of Judah and Jerusalem, I will also gather all nations and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat (in Hebrew, Yehoshaphat means “YHVH judges”); and I will enter into judgment with them there on account of My people, My heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations.  They have also divided up My land.” (Joel 3:1-2)

May the fear of God fall upon the peoples and nations!

“Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the Throne, and to the Lamb!”

Thanks to the many of you who have written in, and to those who didn’t yet lifted a voice to our Father in Heaven.

From the time that the serpent got Eve and Adam to listen to him over the clear Word of God, we have inherited the tendency to believe lies over truth.  And when the lie is repeated enough and taught and passed on as being ... Continue reading]]> Greetings from the land where the lie is often spoken as truth,

Thanks to the many of you who have written in, and to those who didn’t yet lifted a voice to our Father in Heaven.

From the time that the serpent got Eve and Adam to listen to him over the clear Word of God, we have inherited the tendency to believe lies over truth.  And when the lie is repeated enough and taught and passed on as being true, it takes a rude awakening sometimes to open our eyes and ears to reality.  I was always brought up to believe that the truth of Jesus was not true — at least not for Jewish people.  If something is true, it is true for everyone.  Today Israel and Jewish people curses — although not always knowingly — both Jesus and those who believe in Him.  And Israel herself finds the nations delegitimizing and cursing the truth of her existence, and her witness to the one true God — even in her unbelief.  We reap what we sow; as we judge, we shall be judged.

In the present state of war preparations, Israelis were attacked and murdered.  Israel responded by killing the terrorists, and also some Egyptians, who may or may not have been complicit in the attacks near Eilat last week; and the news media, including some of Israel’s own, give a picture that Israel is the aggressor against Gazans and Hamas.  I heard a BBC newscast just two days ago, with the story stating that Israel had killed 15 Palestinians, including civilians, in response to a militant raid which killed  eight Israelis.  NOTHING about the civilians that the terrorists killed, including the injury of two children.  NOTHING about all the rocket attacks which had already begun on southern Israel towns and cities.  And with all this, Hamas and the other terrorist organizations involved who started the latest salvo during Ramadan, threatened Israel should Israel retaliate during Ramadan! 

The terrorists who chose to start the killings and attacks then also decided when the “cease-fire” should begin — 9:00 pm on Sunday.  Since Sunday at 9:00 pm (2100), rockets have been fired towards Ashkelon and other Israeli towns near Gaza.  Israel, once again, finds itself in a dilemma that no matter what she does, it is wrong.  Believers in Jesus/Yeshua, whatever we do or say about the truth of who He is, are never right in Judaism thinking. 

Praise the Lord for His righteousness!  His thoughts and ways are just and true, and His wisdom is awe-inspiring, and His judgments past finding out! 

Here is a link to a pretty amazing video about Hamas tactics against their own people and Israel:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUuhw0RpRMY

Here is a very wry response to the U.S. demands for Israel to always apologize:  http://yossibarnegev.wordpress.com/  (I do not know who the author is, as far as I know.)

And here is a video of rocket attacks in Beer Sheva this past Saturday night, with most being intercepted:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0n5ICddnSJk

–return the heart of His people to Jerusalem and His Word, offering as many who will repent and believe today for salvation through Messiah Yeshua the blessedness of the first resurrection;

–tread down Jerusalem so that the Jews’ heart-cry and hope is only in Him who comes in the name of YEHOVAH;

–convict of national and generational transgression, sin, and iniquity against the LORD and His covenant so that He can forgive, cleanse, ... Continue reading]]> To fulfill Israel’s sovereign and redemptive election God is working to:

–return the heart of His people to Jerusalem and His Word, offering as many who will repent and believe today for salvation through Messiah Yeshua the blessedness of the first resurrection;

–tread down Jerusalem so that the Jews’ heart-cry and hope is only in Him who comes in the name of YEHOVAH;

–convict of national and generational transgression, sin, and iniquity against the LORD and His covenant so that He can forgive, cleanse, heal each and all of His  people when the full remnant from every tribe looks upon Yeshua whom they have  pierced.

The Body of Messiah, as a priesthood representing our peoples before God, is called to intercede for our nation in the face of all the ... Continue reading]]> A call for a national fast by the believers in Israel has gone out for this week, Aug 8-9, coinciding with the Jewish day of mourning over the destruction of the two temples, and for other calamitous events which have occured on or near the same Hebrew calendar date of the 9th day of the 5th month.

The Body of Messiah, as a priesthood representing our peoples before God, is called to intercede for our nation in the face of all the existential threats she faces.  For us to have any authority before God on behalf of our unbelieving people, the believers must face squarely our own sins as God’s people under the blood of the New Covenant at this time.

Not only are there external enemies and threats to seek to destroy Israel from being a nation anymore, but there are both external and internal agents seeking to prevent Israel and the Jewish people from being what God has created and redeemed her for.  We still, even as born-again Spirit-baptized and -filled believers in the truth of who Jesus Christ is, too often show a likeness to Israel who did/do not want to have the living God be her King, but wanted/want a king like the Gentiles have.  We want to be like the Gentiles, rather than a holy people serving the Holy One, and being a servant nation as a royal priesthood to bless other nations and peoples for the glory of our Father in Heaven and the Lord Yeshua Messiah/Jesus Christ.  Too many Christians — or by any other name that clearly identifies any and all believers with Yeshua/Jesus — want a Jesus that is like the ‘holy’ men of other religions, and not the unique and only-begotten Son of God who alone is the Mediator between God and men.

As we humble ourselves and seek God’s face, let us acknowledge our own sins first — as is required of the priests serving YHVH God — according to the calling and ministries we have in Messiah/Christ, so that there might be healing and deliverance and revival within the household of faith.  Then, perhaps those outside will come and see what the Holy Spirit is doing that brings lasting hope in the God of hope.  All their sins are a consequence of not believing in the name of the Son of God; all our own sins are for not believing what He says.

A visiting Zambian pastor has been very impressed with the abundance of ... Continue reading]]> While the Arabs are uprising and suffering around the Middle East and North Africa, the Jewish people in Israel are staging their own social protests.  One major difference is that in Israel there has been no violence or military intervention against her own people.  Until now the government of Israel has always been “of the people” and not some separated class of people.  In Israel we are family.

A visiting Zambian pastor has been very impressed with the abundance of food and commodities in Israel, as well as with the excellent road and highway system.  The people –  both Jewish and Arab — he sees living together and sharing the life together.  Yet Israel has forgotten YHVH her God, who has made it possible for all this plenty, and has taken much of the credit herself for the successes.  Even in this unbelief and rebellion, the God of covenant is showing HIS faithfulness, even to a stubborn and stiff-necked people, as He continues to show Himself faithful.  His desire is for His people to return back to Him, and for those who are enemies of His people to also repent and come under His good and gracious covering in the Commonwealth of Israel.

Socially, Israel has a growing gap between the relatively few rich, and the increasing poorer and poor.  The cost of living in Israel is very high, with high prices and low wages.  As of this writing, there are public and private sector strikes and demonstrations against government policies.  Doctors have been on strike for more than four months; parents are protesting the cost of high child-care; students are protesting the high cost of higher education and of housing costs; young married couples are protesting the near impossibility to purchase a modest apartment for a reasonable price; fuel prices are very costly, and the price of new cars are taxed at a rate to bring the cost to double the price.

While we stand on God’s promises regarding the Promised Land to the descendants of Jacob, He also has given commandments regarding the social welfare, and promises of righteous judgments against those who oppress the poor, the needy, the widow, the orphan, the weak of society.  May the Israeli government show itself sensitive to the real and felt needs of the general populace.  May the Church in Israel show itself a willing vessel to help in whatever ways it can; may Jerusalem/Israel/Zion turn to and bless Him who comes in the name of YHVH.

A miracle is what only God can do.  He may act providentially as He oversees the affairs of His creation, but when ... Continue reading]]> Pentecost Sunday — the day after the seventh Sabbath following the celebration of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ — begins tomorrow in the morning light of day.  The life of believers in Yeshua as Messiah and Lord is a miracle of new spiritual birth, based upon the faith in the truth of the miracle that He rose from the dead. 

A miracle is what only God can do.  He may act providentially as He oversees the affairs of His creation, but when He intervenes to further His purposes He does so in a way that it is clear that He did it.  Those who oppose the one true God will always seek to find some natural explanation, but when the facts are looked at in detail, it becomes evident that a miracle occurred that only God could have accomplished.  The glory is His, not any created thing.

Shavuot/Weeks – Pentecost/50 Days marks the birthday of the Body of Christ, the Church.  On that day more than 2000 years ago, 120 Jewish Israeli disciples of the Messiah whom God brought through the Jewish people and first sent to them received the gift of the Holy Spirit:  the miracle of new birth, when God comes into repentant sinners who have placed their hope in Jesus and makes us a new creation.  From our human and creature limitations, the Creation of the Heavens and the Earth is a miracle; so, too, is the redemptive New Creation.  For God, it is ‘normal’; it is His glory being revealed and displayed.

God is still “commanding all people everywhere to repent.  For He has set a day when He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man He has appointed.  He has given proof of this to all men by raising Him from the dead”.  This good news has not changed; it is as relevant today as then.  Let us fear God and worship Him only.

Holocaust is a Greek word meaning “whole-burnt offering by fire”.  This is a term for one of the sacrifices offered unto YHVH God by Israel under the Law of Moses.  It is also the word used to describe ... Continue reading]]> This evening in Israel marks the beginning of Holocaust Remembrance Day.  The Holocaust of the Jewish people, in particular, by the Nazi regime during WWII is unique in its scale and impact.  There is really no other effort at genocide that compares historically.

Holocaust is a Greek word meaning “whole-burnt offering by fire”.  This is a term for one of the sacrifices offered unto YHVH God by Israel under the Law of Moses.  It is also the word used to describe the sacrifice of Jesus Christ/Yeshua the Messiah in His crucifixion. 

The sacrifice of approximately 6,000,000 Jews — unwilling though it was on their part — was the catalyst to move the principalities and authorities of the world to grant the Jewish people a sovereign homeland in Palestine/The State of Israel by a large majority in the United Nations in November 1947 — 30 years after the Balfour Declaration proclaimed by the British Government during WWI.

In our day and generation there is a growing movement in the world to de-legitimize the reality of the Holocaust — either by denying it altogether, or by minimizing its scale and scope, or else by making it comparable to other genocides.  This movement even has adherents among some Jews and Israelis and some Christians.  If the Holocaust can be de-ligitimized for what it was — despite all the evidence to the contrary — it helps in legitimizing the de-ligitimization of the “resurrection” of the State of Israel’s right to exist and its right to continue to defend itself.

About 2000 years ago, the Israeli Jewish people as a whole de-legitimized the uniqueness and impact of the “holocaust” of the Messiah, the Son of God.  By so doing, our people also continue until today to deny or minimize the reality of the actual and unique resurrection of Jesus, proof that God justified Him during His life and through His being put to death.

Just as the one true God is active today to bring His people Israel back to Himself through their repentance over our ultimate rebellion against Him, so, too, is the same God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob working to bring the nations to accept HIS JUSTIFICATION of the re-establishment of a nation of Jews back in the very land which He promised to those Fathers and to their descendants as an everlasting possession.  God’s long-suffering over His own beloved people is for the purpose of salvation, that many more would be saved by repentance and faith in His gospel.  This same attribute of our God is working to bring salvation to many more Gentiles, i.e., non-Jews/Israelis, and to bring both Jews, Christians, and nations to fear Him who alone forgives sins.

The salvation of all depends on their relationship to Jesus Christ, and is connected in some measure to their relationship to the least of His brethren.  (I will leave that an open comment.)  The inheritance which the God of Israel offers to nations is connected to the salvation of ‘all’ Israel, His first-born among the nations.  There are others which will become His, but not without the first-born.

Holocaust Remembrance Day offers much to chew and to meditate on.  Yeshua Messiah is Lord of all history, and He is the Keeper of His people — both of the flesh, and also of the Spirit.

Beyond that, though, YHVH demonstrated by His great power that He alone is the one true God.  He defeated all the gods of Egypt, and showed Pharoah and the people that none of their so-called gods can compare with YEHOVAH, the Creator of the ... Continue reading]]> Today is Passover in Israel.  Most Jewish people around the world remember that YHVH delivered His people Israel out of slavery in Egypt to bring them liberty to serve Him in the promised Land of Canaan. 

Beyond that, though, YHVH demonstrated by His great power that He alone is the one true God.  He defeated all the gods of Egypt, and showed Pharoah and the people that none of their so-called gods can compare with YEHOVAH, the Creator of the Heavens and Earth, and the Redeemer and Deliverer of His people out from the nations!  Jesus Christ has been given all authority by the Father – by virtue of His crucifixion and resurrection from among the dead – of things in Heaven, things on the Earth, things under the Earth and in the seas.  Jesus Christ is LORD!  The Lamb of God is risen indeed!

History has a way of repeating itself, perhaps with different clothing but with the same inner essence.  There is nothing new under the sun.  As the Jewish people at the time of Yeshua’s first coming wanted the Messiah to give them dominion now over their enemies and the nations, so too do many Christians today, as the day of Christ’s return nears, want Him to grant them the kingdom now as if His coming is either delayed or irrelevant.  Even those closest to Jesus, such as Judas Ishcariot, one of the apostles, seemed to be motivated in his betrayal by the desire to rule on his own terms what he clearly undestood to be God’s promises.  Judas took a truth and misapplied it.  Yeshua/Jesus Himself will come to restore the Kingdom of God back to Israel and over Israel and the nations.

But, in the meantime, there is a kingdom which we have been given authority to rule:  The Kingdom of God is within you.

It is written in Proverbs that “one who controls his/her own spirit is stronger than one who takes a city”!  Part of the fruit of the Holy Spirit is self-control/self-government.  Why should God give us control over other people and nations when we have not yet learned to control ourselves — our appetites, our tongues, our greed, our stubbornness, our anger, our presumptuousness?! 

God does not intend to give over again to sinful men dominion over the works of His hands, and Adam and Eve were not given dominion over other humans.  (Even though born-again believers are justified through faith, we still have our old man contending with the Spirit of God within us, and, sadly but true, we do find ourselves giving into it at times.)  The Son is still bringing many others into the Father’s household to give us together who are His the privilege of ruling and reigning with Him.  “Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection.  Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Messiah, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.”    We, by His grace, shall reign WITH JESUS, not instead of or apart from His actual return and presence, or of our own personal bodily resurrection. 

There is for us a present kingdom and dominion:  control our self!  “…reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.  Therefore, do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts.  And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves alive to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God.    For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace.

After the power and signs and wonders of the Passover; after the power and signs and wonders of the cross:  Does the Lord Jesus Christ reign in your heart and mind?

In an article published April 1 in the online JWR (Jewish World Review), ... Continue reading]]> In recent days there have been interesting items in the news and opinion pages, which we as believers in Israel would do well to heed as realistic attitudes.  One is a survey of Israeli young people; the other a couple of paragraphs of an insightful commentary by Caroline Glick.  She found it pertinent to express her views about Messianic Jews in her article concerning a Jewish problem.

In an article published April 1 in the online JWR (Jewish World Review), “Jewry’s Jewish Problem”, Caroline Glick, whose commentaries I generally find to be very incisive, makes use of her perception – and that of most Jewish people everywhere – regarding Messianic Jews to make her point.  Here is an excerpt from the article:  

According to the AJC and Brandeis surveys, less than ten percent of American Jews tend to accept the Arab line against Israel. Given the wall to wall support for Israel among American Jews, why do American Jewish organizational leaders refuse to do what their members want them to do? Why are they taking Jewish communal funds to finance activities and causes that are offensive to the Jewish community? Why are they pretending that the call to end communal funding for anti-Israel activities is a call for an abrogation of free speech?

To get a sense of how unprecedented this is, it is useful to consider the American Jewish community’s response to Jews for Jesus. While Reform and Orthodox rabbis agree on almost nothing relating to Jewish laws and practices, since the emergence of Jews for Jesus in the 1970s, Reform, Conservative and Orthodox rabbis have been unified in their rejection of the Christian missionary group’s protestations of being Jewish.

Everyone understands that while Jews have a perfect right to change their religion, they have no right to force the Jewish community to accept Christians as Jews. That is they have no right to change the definition of Judaism to include people who worship Jesus. So-called Messianic Jews falsely call themselves Jews to undermine the community from within. But no Federation feels compelled to invite a representative of so-called Messianic Jews to proselytize on stage as part of a panel discussion in order to “welcome multiple voices.” Hillel organizations have rightly refused space and funding to Messianic Jewish groups.

But today, American Jews find themselves helpless when a marginal group of anti-Zionist Jews demands —like the Messianic Jews of their day—communal funding and space for their anti-Israel activities.

The anti-Zionist groups make the same arguments as the Messianic Jews. They call themselves pro-Israel even as they engage in activities aimed at harming, defaming, weakening and delegitimizing the Jewish state. They claim that refusing them communal funds constitutes a violation of their free speech rights.

Yet while communal leaders did not hesitate to call the so-called Messianic Jews’ bluff, they cannot find the way to expunge anti-Israel groups from their umbrella organizations. The explanation for this behavior apparently is apparently social. Federation leaders don’t mind disappointing evangelical Christians. But most of their friends are leftist. Consequently, the perceived social cost of taking action against groups like Theater J, J Street, B’Tselem, Breaking the Silence and Jewish Voices for Peace is too high for many American Jewish leaders to bear.

As a present election of grace, we Jewish believers in Jesus are a proof of God’s faithfulness to His covenant promises to His people, and we establish the truth that Jesus says He has come to fulfill all that is written in Moses and the Prophets.  We are not here to impose His Kingdom before the time, but rather to call people out to Him now, and be spared the wrath to come.  What the Jewish Israeli apostle to the Jews preached to all the people of Israel after he was baptized by the Holy Spirit at Shavuot/Pentecost nearly 2000 years ago still remains the essential message of God to His largely unrepentant people.

The other article of interest shows the attitudes of young Israeli people to what they perceive as the most important issues facing the county:

A survey carried out by a German foundation finds Israel’s youth has become more nationalist and does not expect peace. Some 1,200 Jewish youths and 400 Arab youths (not from the Palestinian Authority-controlled areas and not between the ages of 18 and 21) were polled. The survey shows that a third of Jewish youth in Israel say Judaism is the most important goal for the State of Israel – up from only 18% a year ago. Only 14.3% of Jewish youth said democracy was Israel’s most important objective. Over 40% of the Jewish youth identify politically with the nationalist parties, with another 20% expressing solidarity with the “moderate” right-wing. Only 11.5% identify with the left-wing. Among Arab youth, 35% said they “don’t know” their political affiliation – approximately four times more than in the Jewish sector.  Some 41% of the Arab youth said their most important goal was to build a happy family, and 3% said it was to contribute to society.  Among Jews, it was 65.5% and 8.5%, respectively. Nearly three-quarters of Jews felt that security concerns must “always” or “nearly always” take precedence over ideals of democracy if they clash. (INN)

There is a revival of religion and nationalism around the world.  When these two combine –  together with fear, envy, and hatred — an explosive and unprecedented outbreak of violence can be expected.  May the Lord help us “be still, and know that He is God”.

Praise the Lord for the neighbors, and the other residents who joined with them to protest against the religious oppressors!  This is what we need to see more of in Israel if there is going to be a breakthrough in the ranks of those in control:  local, Hebrew-speaking, ordinary Israelis — and those not so ordinary — ... Continue reading]]> The demonstration in Arad took place, and Channel 1 news covered it.  Here is a link, which also has English sub-titles: 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnR6DYmHdOI

Praise the Lord for the neighbors, and the other residents who joined with them to protest against the religious oppressors!  This is what we need to see more of in Israel if there is going to be a breakthrough in the ranks of those in control:  local, Hebrew-speaking, ordinary Israelis — and those not so ordinary — standing up and speaking out against the baseless taunts and accusations of the opposers of the believers, who represent that which is good and right in the truth of our Lord and Messiah.

While this reflects favorably on the Israeli system of law — that no one is officially above it — it also demonstrates the sad state of affairs in a country which would allow such a man to rise to such a position of power and influence over a period of ... Continue reading]]> Yesterday, the eighth and former President of the State of Israel, Moshe Katzav, was convicted as a rapist, sexual harasser, perjurer, and an obstructer of the judicial process.  http://www.jpost.com/NationalNews/Article.aspx?id=201648 

While this reflects favorably on the Israeli system of law — that no one is officially above it — it also demonstrates the sad state of affairs in a country which would allow such a man to rise to such a position of power and influence over a period of many years.  Not only is rape, sexual harassment, and adultery too often dismissed in this generation and society — placing many victims into the position of feeling like the perpetrators, which sometimes may also be the common truth — but a nation which has been called and chosen by the Creator and Redeemer of the Heavens and the Earth to be a holy people continues to dimly reflect this reality.

It is often said that Israel is called to be a “light to the Gentiles”, but the Scriptures actually show that the Messiah Himself — the true Servant and Elect One who embodies all that Israel is to be — HE is the One given as the Light:

Is 42:6-7   I, YHVH, have called You in righteousness, and will hold Your hand;  I will keep You and give You as a covenant to the people (Israel), as a light to the Gentiles; to open blind eyes, to bring out prisoners from the prison, those who sit in darkness from the prison house.

Is 49:5-6   And now YHVH says, who formed Me from the womb to be His Servant, to bring Jacob back to Him, so that Israel is gathered to Him (For I shall be glorious in the eyes of YHVH, and My God shall be My strength), indeed He says, ”It is too small a thing that You should be My Servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved ones of Israel; I will also give You as a light to the Gentiles, that You should be My salvation to the ends of the Earth”.

The whole of the Bible shows clearly the spiritual condition of God’s people — whether Israel/Jews or the Church/Christians –  and our need of repentance unto salvation and/or unto humble obedience in the fear of God.  Israel’s democracy is flawed, as are others who consider this form of government to be the ideal.  Yet God has not called Israel to emulate the Gentiles, but to be a kingdom of priests, and to return unto His righteous rule, with YHVH Himself in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ (Yeshua the Messiah) being her King in truth.  The ignoble conviction of Israel’s “Public Citizen #1″ only further testifies to that.

Israel is in need of new birth, not merely correction and fixing.  She is in need of healing, not outwardly and physically only, but inwardly and spiritually.  She needs a new heart and a new spirit, even the Spirit of the God and Savior who still loves her for His holy name’s sake, and for the sake of the fathers — Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob/Israel.

Israel’s reflection of the true light is dim indeed:  she has preferred the works of darkness, rather than come to Him who is the True Light, whose life is the light of men.  All of her contributions to the benefit of the world’s peoples are as dead works, since they are done for her own praise and not for the praise of Him who has enabled her.  The former glory is fading and passing away, that the true glory may shine in its eternal fullness!

2Pt 1:19   And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.

Yesterday’s harsh verdict against the former Israeli President, Moshe Katzav, is a self-indictment:  we can not save ourselves however we may wishfully hope.  God has made it profoundly simple:  there is only one name by which anyone can be saved — Yeshua/Jesus!  Thank God for His love and faithfulness to keep His covenants, and may this next year see many more Gentiles and Jews come to His Light, shining like the sun in its strength.

The ‘modern’ calendar for the whole world till now is centered around the person of Jesus Christ (Messiah Yeshua).  The all-encompassing ”creative” year begins in Winter around the ... Continue reading]]> The one true living God has left His witness in every place, including in His sovereignty over times and nature.  The universe at large, and our unique solar system set within it, both bear witness to His Godhead and plans, to His times and His seasons.  (Gen 1:1-19; 8:22; Ps 19:1-6; Jer 31:35-37; 33:25-26)

The ‘modern’ calendar for the whole world till now is centered around the person of Jesus Christ (Messiah Yeshua).  The all-encompassing ”creative” year begins in Winter around the season of His birth into the world and His circumcision, testifying to Him being the first-born of creation, and of coming in the flesh as a Jew. (Col 1:15-17; Lk 2:21-24)  The “redemptive” year – which YHVH gave to Israel for a testimony – is set within the overall created order, and begins in the Spring, during the season of Yeshua’s death and resurrection, upon which foundation our salvation is grounded through faith.  This newness of life which the Spring proclaims testifies to Yeshua being the first-fruits from among the dead (1Cor 15:12-23).

As the birth of Messiah came during the darkest and bleakest time of year, He also came as the Light of the world, with each day increasing its light in the hope of a ‘better and cheerful Spring’.

The believer in Jesus can rejoice in all of God’s wonderful works, from the beginning of the year through to the end.  His Word and His Spirit have given us to know and understand the times in which we live, and the signs of His coming.

Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, goodwill toward men!  This is still the acceptable year of the LORD; Today, if you will hear His voice, is the day of salvation!

What alerted me to be concerned was an internet article sent out by someone (with an Arab name) which took some of the facts of the case, and turned ... Continue reading]]> An arson attack was carried out a few nights ago on the Christian and Missionary Alliance center in Jerusalem.  There were people inside sleeping during the attack.  I was able to meet with them when they came down to Beer Sheva on Sunday for a work project at HaMaKoM Bible House. 

What alerted me to be concerned was an internet article sent out by someone (with an Arab name) which took some of the facts of the case, and turned it into a propaganda attack against Israel for the plight of Christians here.   The CMA owns the two properties in Beer Sheva which are of special importance to us:  HaMaKoM Bible House, and the ‘Old House’, which is where Nachalat Yeshua Congregation meets and carries out other ministry.

While the explosives which were sent out of Yemen headed, apparently, for synagogues in Chicago, in the U.S., received much Israeli and world-wide coverage, the actual attempt to destroy a Christian church building, with sleeping people inside, in the heart of Jerusalem has, to the best of my knowledge, gone virtually unreported.

Pray for the salvation of Jewish people, of the Arab people, and for the thoughts and intentions of the heart of believers caught up in the conflict.  There will be a prayer meeting in Jerusalem at the CMA center on Saturday night.

In praying for the peace of Jerusalem, please know that only the coming again of Yeshua is going to settle once and for all the lack of peace there and everywhere else.

There is a wave of deception entering from without and working within the “Church” connected with the return of the Lord Jesus Christ from Heaven to judge the nations and to establish His righteous reign over Israel and the rest of the world.  Many professing believers/Christians — and some are truly so — are ... Continue reading]]> This news is not new!  It is also good news for those who love His appearing!  It is the same “old” news!  It remains current news!

There is a wave of deception entering from without and working within the “Church” connected with the return of the Lord Jesus Christ from Heaven to judge the nations and to establish His righteous reign over Israel and the rest of the world.  Many professing believers/Christians — and some are truly so — are re-defining terms to interpret the Word of God to be saying what He isn’t, or else to not be saying what He is.  The spirit at work in this seeks to de-legitimize both Israel and the gospel in their uniqueness; to make what God calls “new” (as in New Covenant and new creation) only something re-newed or re-cycled; and to weaken doctrinal support not for these only, but also for the hope of the literal and personal return of the same Yeshua/Jesus who ascended in bodily form to sit at the right hand of the Father until the time appointed.

The gospel/good news goes out to “whosoever” from whatever nation and group of people.  God is working to save whosoever repents and believes His good news concerning repentance and faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, and the free gift of eternal life to all who truly believe.  Any consequential transformation of a society or a culture is only in part and definitely temporary.  Only the return of the Lord to establish the Kingdom of God on the Earth is going to permanently change this situation at a universal level.  Meanwhile, the Holy Spirit is working to bring as many as will to have part in the better resurrection, which is the first resurrection, which is far better than merely entering the Millennial Kingdom in the flesh for those of Israel and of other sheep nations who come through the great tribulation without giving themselves over to the antichrist, and upon whom Yeshua will show mercy and compassion at the end of the age.

To make this as simple as possible:  as long as Satan is the god of this world, then the world is not going to be transformed to a degree satisfactory to YHVH God and His Son; and as long as Israel — His chosen people and nation — remains an enemy of the gospel, then the God of Israel is not going to be satisfied with any lesser transformation.  Both of these conditions will prevail until the coming again of Yeshua, and thank God that the Father has set a time for this!

Therefore, it is for true believers not to lose sight of the blessed hope as we go about being light, salt, and a fragrance in the world in the faith, hope, and love that more individuals will have their own heart and minds transformed by that which is the power of God to save:  the gospel.  In God’s Kingdom, every part will be holy in order that all is holy.  It appears that the elect are going to be more and more “hid with Messiah in God”, and not be the most vocal and visible, or high profile, or most popular, or even most ‘influential’.  Even so, come Lord Jesus!  Blessed is He who comes in the name of YHVH!

It is still summer, and not only is Israel still not saved, but the summer-time-clock has ended, and we are back on standard time.  With all the different time zones and arbitrary time changes, Yeshua knew what He was saying when He said that we can not know the day and hour of His coming!  Praise God that He knows how to keep His own time!!

An interesting survey taken by the Israeli ... Continue reading]]> Greetings in the goodness of our God.

It is still summer, and not only is Israel still not saved, but the summer-time-clock has ended, and we are back on standard time.  With all the different time zones and arbitrary time changes, Yeshua knew what He was saying when He said that we can not know the day and hour of His coming!  Praise God that He knows how to keep His own time!!

An interesting survey taken by the Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics was published today in the Israeli newspapers, which shows that more Israelis are becoming more religious.  Less than half the population – 42% -  (according to survey statistical measurements ) consider themselves secular.  Most of those surveyed say that they have become “more religious” than they had been before.  The survey broke down the Jewish people into 5 categories:  ultra-orthodox; religious; traditional-religious; traditional, but not religious; secular.

Just yesterday, I was speaking with a new believer about how there is religious revival all around the world in all the religions.  Acts 17:26-31  “And [God] has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the Earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings, so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own [Greek] poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’  Therefore, since we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, something shaped by art and man’s devising.  Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained.  He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from among the dead!”

True and full repentance and revival comes when people come back to the living God Himself, and this is only through His Son, the Lord Yeshua Messiah/Jesus Christ.  There are many ways to come to Jesus; but there is only one way to come to the Father.

The verses quoted above gave me another way of thinking what it means to take the gospel “to the Jew first, and then to the Greeks” (which is the actual Holy Spirit inspired word in the text, not ‘Gentiles’), or that the gospel is “the power of God unto salvation to the Jew first, and also of the Greeks”.  Not everyone necessarily meets or knows or has an opportunity to witness to an actual Jewish person, or to a Greek.  But everyone — and every believer — does know in their own cultures those who are “religious”, and who think that they are more righteous than those who are not; and also those who “philosophize” and “politicize”, who consider the creation and possibility of “gods” or “a god”, but have no “Rock” to stand on.  (I am speaking very generally here.)  It seems that those to whom the gospel first goes are to these “religious, whose righteousness is of law”, and to those who think on “eternal” things, but do not have a rudder to keep them on a steady and clear course.  These “Jews” and “Greeks” have a sense of a “Judge”, a concern for accountable government,  and a hope to attain the world to come by their “good works” and traditions, and by their “good ideas, worldly wisdom, and politics”.  Each in some measure have a fear of God, even if He is unknown to them personally, but hope that should He actually exist, that He would find favor with them.

But even the actual Jewish people have to repent and be born-again through saving faith in Yeshua; even Cornelius — a God-fearing [Roman] military man —  had to learn the way of salvation through the God of Israel’s Messiah for the Jews, and also for the “good person”; and Paul felt the unction to reveal the true and personal God to the Greeks who only knew of Him as a rumor.  And the issue has to do with Jesus coming again to judge the world in righteousness!  Hallelu-Yah, say all the saints! 

Turning to religion is a step in the right direction for some people, and a falling away for others.  The religious spirit is opposed to the liberty which comes to those whose faith is anchored in the truth of the gospel.  The gospel is neither Jewish nor Greek; it is neither religious nor political nor military; it is neither right nor left.  May we see many more of the Jews and of the Greeks, and also of those “who were not initially invited”, come into the Father’s house!

This week, the Jewish people are preparing for the holiest day of the year in Judaism — the Day of Atonements.  In the survey, most of the Israelis, including the secular, go to the synagogue on that day, if they ever go at all.  My family did the same as we grew up in Conservative Judaism in the U.S.  Let us pray for their eyes to be opened, and their hearts to be stirred.  In the wonderful sovereignty of God and the authority which Yeshua has over His own countrymen, the Book of Jonah is read in the synagogues on Yom Ha-Kippurim (The Day of Atonements)!  Yeshua said that Jonah — a prophet from the Galilee —  is the only sign He would give them to prove who He is!  Our Lord and God reigns, even in Israel!

God bless you all, and praise Him that our names are already written in the Lamb’s Book of Life in Heaven!

A verdict has been handed down by Judge Iddo Ruzin in our lawsuit filed against the Chief Sephardic Rabbi Yehuda Deri, and against the anti-Messianic organization, Yad L’Achim.  The judge did exactly what we have been praying and hoping . . . that he would not do!  Judge Ruzin has determined that the two defendants are innocent of any wrong-doing concerning the events before, during, and after 24 Dec 2005, and that we did not produce ... Continue reading]]> Shalom Brothers and Sisters,

A verdict has been handed down by Judge Iddo Ruzin in our lawsuit filed against the Chief Sephardic Rabbi Yehuda Deri, and against the anti-Messianic organization, Yad L’Achim.  The judge did exactly what we have been praying and hoping . . . that he would not do!  Judge Ruzin has determined that the two defendants are innocent of any wrong-doing concerning the events before, during, and after 24 Dec 2005, and that we did not produce sufficient evidence to prove any personal liability on their part in our civil suit against them.
Judge Ruzin has ordered that we pay 1000 ILS to each of the defendants, graded percentages of our claims against them for violations of Israeli law, attorneys’ wages for their clients’ defense, and the five appearances in court for the trial, for a total of approximately 155,000 ILS ( ($40,200; 32,900 Euros; or GBP 27,800).  This miscarriage of justice is a sad commentary on the state of affairs, and should be seen, too, as a wake-up call to all who care for truth and righteousness.

We express our sincere and heartfelt thanks to all of you for your encouragements, prayers, praises to God, and financial contributions throughout this lawsuit to date.  We believe, with many of you, that we were led by the Lord to enter into this lawsuit, and we have sought to honor the name of Yeshua.  We believe that at least in this latter regard, we were successful:  even the judge in his decision referred to the Lord as “Yeshua”, and not by the acronym commonly used by many in this land.  We understood from the outset that there was a risk involved in taking these particular defendants to court for what we still know they are liable.

If we decide to file an appeal of this decision, we will do so only after consultation with other Messianic leaders from around Israel, just as we did before going to trial.

We always believed, and still believe and accept, that the verdict is from the Lord, and it is for us to discern what He is saying to us through it.

Glory to the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Israel.

This may be a good time to say plainly that we have not gone into this suit as a civil liberties issue, nor on the basis of ... Continue reading]]> We are still waiting for Judge Iddo Ruzin to deliver his verdict on our case.  It is possible that he has already decided and posted it in the mail, or it may be that he is still deliberating on it.  In any case, we hope to receive his decision in the coming days.

This may be a good time to say plainly that we have not gone into this suit as a civil liberties issue, nor on the basis of Israel being a democratic country.  There are many who would deny that Israel is a full democracy, nor do we want to defend the right of ‘sinners’ to parade themselves as a ‘basic civil right or liberty’.  It is no sin to be born Jewish or Arab or black; it is not a sin to be Israeli, Korean, or Mexican; it is a sin for any person to break God’s holy and righteous laws, and the laws of a society which have been enacted to protect the general welfare of its citizens, residents, strangers, and aliens.  We know that it is the righteousness of God to believe in Yeshua/Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of the living God.  For the Jewish people as a whole, that is the unforgivable sin!

Democracy has served certain countries well; it is not suited for  others.  The Word of God tells us to pray for all in authority who rule over us; He does not differentiate between forms of government in this commandment for believers in Messiah Yeshua.  God’s government, though, is not a democracy, however much freedom He gives to those under His rule and authority.  God’s government is a KINGDOM, with the Lord Messiah as the KING, which Yeshua has come to restore…and will restore at the appointed time the Father has set for His coming again.

Interestingly, Laodicea means “rule by/of the people”, or, “democracy”!  It’s inherent and fatal flaw — it’s ‘original sin’ — ultimately brings forth compromise and indifference to truth and moral absolutes, and places God OUTSIDE its borders.  Democracy ultimately insists on rule by, for, of the PEOPLE (whatever that may mean) — not by, for, of YHVH GOD.  In this generation, we see the foundations of civil society broken up; ungodly people ‘lording over’ the people; unrighteousness increasing rampantly:  all this on so-called grounds of ‘basic human rights’ and ‘free and democratic elections’, no matter how many do NOT vote, or how ignorant the voters, or how many empty political promises are made, or how corrupt the system.  The enemy of righteousness and peace takes advantage of this falling away (apostasy) when discernment is at a low level, and when the means to hold the flood back are greatly weakened or lacking altogether.

This generation prides itself on its great knowledge and technological brilliance.  Man’s view of itself and his achievements are not quite the way the God of Heaven and Earth assesses reality.  (Look again at the letter of Jesus to His church in Laodicea.)  In the book of Daniel, the image of King Nebuchadnezer’s dream depicts the historic Gentile kingdoms, qualitatively descending  in value from the head down to the feet, until the Kingdom which shall not pass away knocks the whole thing down from underneath.  In God’s estimation, this last non-cohesive clay-mixed-with-iron kingdom of our generation before the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ in great power and glory to re-establish the Kingdom of God in this world is the LEAST, the POOREST in quality and value!

We did not go to court to perpetuate or to affirm or to take over a world system which is against YHVH and against His Anointed One!  We went to battle for the honor of the name of the Lord Yeshua and of those who believe in Him in connection with the legitimate right for us to lawfully assemble together to worship together on privately owned property – all in accord with the existing laws of the State of Israel, whatever kind of nation it is deemed to be — against those who have disregarded these laws, acted illegally to hinder us from doing so, and then publicly belittled both the event and us who believe.  What we were doing is legal; what they did is not.  Had they done what they did against us against Muslims at a mosque, rather than being in a beit mishpat (court of justice), they would have found themselves in a beit kevurot (a graveyard).  Had what they did against us been done against Jewish people in a synagogue anywhere else in the world — especially the western, Christianized world — there would have have been public outcries by the victims, and a reasonable expectation, even insistence, that religious and political leaders denounce such anti-semitic incitement, acts, and violence.  But here, in Beer Sheva — the City of the Fathers –  and throughout Israel, there has been a virtual news cover-up and no visible intervention by public officials to express their regret over the infringement of our ‘rights’ of religious freedom.

Our battle is not carnal, but spiritual, and will not be won by any arm of the flesh, but only by the Arm of the LORD of Hosts!  We are salt and light in the world, and are to impact it for righteousness sake, for the gospel’s sake, for the Kingdom of God’s sake, for the name of Yeshua’s sake.  If, as a result of our lawsuit, it helps to strengthen the freedoms we do enjoy under the form of government we do have, praise the Lord.  It may also result to serve further efforts to restrict our liberties as believers in Yeshua here in Israel, as was done against Daniel in Babylon, and against Mordecai and the Jews in Persia.  In the world there is tribulation, but praise God, Yeshua has overcome the world!  Harassment and persecution will not end yet as a result of our lawsuit, but more people may come to realize the love of the truth, and call upon the Name of the only One who can deliver and save.

This is a reminder to please remember to continue in prayer for the outcome of our lawsuit against Beer Sheva’s Chief Rabbi Yehuda Deri, and against the anti-Messianic organization, Yad L’Achim.  Our next and “last” scheduled appearance before the Judge Iddo Ruzin is next week on April 15 at 11:10 that morning.

We have submitted to the judge and to the two defendants our ... Continue reading]]> Greetings in the name of Yeshua, who is and who was and who is to come!

This is a reminder to please remember to continue in prayer for the outcome of our lawsuit against Beer Sheva’s Chief Rabbi Yehuda Deri, and against the anti-Messianic organization, Yad L’Achim.  Our next and “last” scheduled appearance before the Judge Iddo Ruzin is next week on April 15 at 11:10 that morning.

We have submitted to the judge and to the two defendants our position regarding what we expect from them in issuing a public apology for the violence and unpleasant ways during their illegal demonstration and trespass against our congregation on December 24, 2005, and in doing all that is in their power to do to prevent any such recurrence of illegal acts against believers in Yeshua in the future.  We have also stated that we will continue to act within the laws of the State of Israel, as we have done all along.  (Should laws be changed to work against the gospel even more, then we will, of course, in the love of the Lord and by the power of His grace, do our utmost to honor Him and, if necessary,suffer for His name’s sake.)  We walk in the footsteps of those who have gone before, and we follow the Lamb wherever He leads us.

Their responses to the judge and to us is expected by Sunday.  If there is anything I can update you on before the day in court, then I will.  Your prayers and other tangible support through coming together as one Body around this case have been a source of much hope, and I pray that none of us will be disappointed in whatever verdict of the God of all encouragement.  It is not certain that the judge will give his decision next Thursday, and he customarily has up to 30 days following to make his judgment known.  How the Israeli general public will know anything is still a question.

And once more, let us remember:  This lawsuit is not against Israel or against the Jewish people. It is not to be used in any way to foment or promote anti-Israel or anti-Jewish actions or reactions. It is already known through the Scriptures that Israel at present is opposed to the good news of God, so we are not out to make them an enemy. Nor is our legal action intended to be used by any other minority or religious groups in Israel to encourage or affirm anti-Israel/Jewish sentiment. For the sake of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, Israel and her people are beloved by God the Father for His honor and glory, and for the honor and glory of His Son.

Thank-you for your part in carrying this case through to its end for the righteousness of God to rule, and for many in Israel who have fallen to repent and believe the gospel, that they may rise again to serve the living God!

For the peace of Jerusalem above to be upon you already, even as we look to that day when the Jerusalem that now is will know her peace in Messiah our Lord,
Howard

My apologies for not being able to get this out sooner, since I know that many of you were and have been praying for our day in court yesterday.  Also some of you even called, or SMSed, or sent e-mails, and we are very encouraged by such attentive support.

Up to about 30 also met at Ha-MaKoM for worship and intercession during the course of the court session, which went on till about 1:00pm.  Once ... Continue reading]]> Shalom upon you!  (Shalom aleichem!)

My apologies for not being able to get this out sooner, since I know that many of you were and have been praying for our day in court yesterday.  Also some of you even called, or SMSed, or sent e-mails, and we are very encouraged by such attentive support.

Up to about 30 also met at Ha-MaKoM for worship and intercession during the course of the court session, which went on till about 1:00pm.  Once again, the defendants displayed a disrespect for the court and for the entire proceedings by showing up late or not at all.  This is the attitude taken by the religious authorities in other cases involving believers in Yeshua here, that the authority of the civil courts are not fully recognized, if at all.  (I would say that believers, who find themselves in court over legal matters in any country, need to be careful not to show contempt of court, since we are commanded to submit to the civil authorities, and not to curse our rulers.)

I still stand amazed how little bearing false witness (perjury) seems to carry much weight in court.  Maybe I am myself pre-judging, but ‘oaths’ to tell only the truth go unchallenged when lies are clearly stated as if true.  Again, I thank God that we have and Advocate in Heaven who intercedes for us!  That we have Someone to call upon who is the Righteous Judge of all the Earth, and who is also the only one who forgives sin, that people would fear Him.

God honors human beings, whom He created in His image and likeness.  Each one, even those who will be sent away from His presence forever, will stand before Yeshua face-to-face for His righteous judgment.  In our present case, the judge has said that the defendants do not even have to show up in court for our next session (April 15), only to be available by telephone!  To me, this only strengthens the attitude of belligerent people to disrespect the legal system.

I am very thankful that yesterday’s proceedings ended with us (including me personally) being able to state our position once again, just as we did at the outset of the pre-trial hearings — but this time before the Judge in the courtroom — that we are willing to accept a public apology from the two defendants, rather than ‘demanding’ from the Judge a verdict that he is unable and perhaps unwilling to give.  I truly felt the Holy Spirit give me a peace that this is our way of seeking to show His way:  “In wrath remember mercy”.  Whether or not the sides will be able to come to an agreement that satisfies each of the parties is still uncertain.  Should the defendants not appreciate the grace being shown by not judging themselves, our Father in Heaven knows how to deal with wayward children who would be His children, and He knows how to deal with those who are determined not to submit to His holy and righteous ways for true peace.

Here, I want to please ask that any reports you may receive about the case not be taken as ‘official’ until you have heard from me or from our lawyers.  If not, there is potential for mistaken analyses, or for misinformation being used as if accurate, and could also be used against us, or be used to suggest that we are not holding ourselves to the standard we would expect from others.  In the event any of you have received reports before this one, here is a clarification by our attorney, and if any of you have used previous information, please correct whatever you may have passed on to others or posted on blogs or websites:

“. . . After completion of the closing arguments by the respective attorneys, the court asked whether there was still any possibility of concluding the dispute by agreement. This led to various discussions with the attorneys for the different parties in the lawsuit, during the course of which we, on behalf of the plaintiffs, pointed out that we want a public apology from both of the defendants. The judge encouraged all of the attorneys to try to meet together (but did not order us to do so) to work out language agreeable to all parties, to which the court would give validity as a judgment. In the absence of agreement, each of the parties would submit a proposed text to the court. A further hearing was set for mid-April for the purpose of trying to conclude the matter without the judge rendering a decision. If agreement cannot be reached, he will issue his judgment after that.

There was no “order” to “Rabbi Deri and Yad L’Achim to issue a public apology to the Messianic congregation within 10 days or suffer more court costs”. Nor does the record reflect any warning to “Yad L’Achim against further violence”. . . .

We need to be careful about reporting what took place and what was said in court and stick to what appears in the transcript. The case is not over until it is finally over and [unauthorized] statements . . . can end up hurting us. . . .”

God bless you all, and may He find us faithful and in the faith,
Howard and Randi

Next Tuesday, March 9, at 9:00, in Beer Sheva Court Shalom, 4th Fl, Room #44, our scheduled last appearance before Judge Iddo Ruzin takes place in our lawsuit against Beer Sheva Chief Rabbi Yehuda Deri and against the organization Yad L’Achim.  Alex Artovsky, their director for the department, The Struggle ... Continue reading]]> Hag Purim sameach!  The God of Israel continues His sleepless watch over His people. . .and because of such sovereign grace and power, we are not consumed but prevail!  Hallelu-Yah!

Next Tuesday, March 9, at 9:00, in Beer Sheva Court Shalom, 4th Fl, Room #44, our scheduled last appearance before Judge Iddo Ruzin takes place in our lawsuit against Beer Sheva Chief Rabbi Yehuda Deri and against the organization Yad L’Achim.  Alex Artovsky, their director for the department, The Struggle Against The Mission, is scheduled to testify, after which the three principal attorneys will present their closing arguments before the judge, who will then have up to 30 days to give his verdict in our civil suit.

The courtroom is very small, holding at most 20 people on a first-come basis.  For Hebrew speakers who would want to be in the court, it is advisable to be at the court building by 8:15; the building opens at 8:30.  Go up to the courtroom and be in a position to enter when it is possible.  We do not know whether friends of our adversaries will also want to attend the hearing, but, again, it is on a first-come first-in basis.  In any event, we do not want any provocations on our part, whether inside the courtroom or outside.

For those who do not want to, or can not, enter the proceedings, but would like to still join directly into events, please participate in the prayer and worship gathering at Ha-MaKoM.  Whether present or absent, we would all very much appreciate your remembrance of us in your thoughts and prayers before the Throne of Grace that morning.  Our hope and trust is in our Heavenly Advocate and Intercessor, even as He works through each of you and us simultaneously.  (Wonderful, isn’t it!?)

Although our case has been in process for three years now, and arises out of the illegal events from more than four years ago, I believe the over-riding sovereignty of Yeshua has been at work.  It is interesting that it is the time for Yad L’Achim to give testimony, now that more light has been shed in their works of darkness, “Jewish terrorist” Yaakov Teitel’s active involvement with them, and the Jerusalem Institute of Justice letter to the Attorney General to outlaw and to dismantle the organization.  YHVH, God of Hosts, is aiming at His target from within His people, with the intent that more Israeli Jewish people be set free to hear, repent from unbelief, and to believe unto salvation in the glad tidings!

Some specific prayer points until the verdict is given:

–for our lawyers, Marvin Kramer and Kevork Nalbandian, that they know how to question Artovsky, and in a manner acceptable to the judge in his courtroom, and that the closing  arguments will be convincing to Judge Ruzin to aid him in ruling in our favor

–for Judge Ruzin, that he would pay attention to not only what he hears and sees, but to intangibles that help him to discern who is of the truth and who is not; that God would  strengthen his heart to rule sufficiently in our favor that the two defendants will know and feel that they have been held accountable to existing law, for him to fear God more than man or devil

–for the unholy alliance between Rabbi Deri and Yad L’Achim is broken; that they would not be able to trust each other, even if they continue to have similar objectives

–REMEMBER:  This is a spiritual battle; no arm of the flesh can defeat a spirit. . .it will simply find another outlet until Yeshua Himself puts away the evil one and evil-doers.  But in the meantime, we can submit ourselves to God, resist the devil, and he will flee from us.  We are called to be salt, light, and a fragrance of Messiah in the world, ant to believe the Lord to use us to help set people free in a redemptive way.  We have a prophetic gifting and calling to speak on God’s behalf and to call people to repentance and to righteousness from the sin of unbelief in Yeshua for Who He Is.

–for the Lord’s intervention to make known to the general Israeli public the issues in these lawsuits by believers against those opposing our legitimate liberties–that our case will have a positive effect upon the believers in Arad, and in other cases now proceeding, such as Pnina Conforti, the Ortizes, and before the Attorney General

–that no matter the verdict, if we have believed and supported this lawsuit to be obedience to the Lord in this particular situation, then that we accept the verdict as also being His for His own purposes beyond our own knowledge and understanding.  If the verdict seems favorable to us, that we guard against pride in whatever form it may try to uncover itself; should we feel that the judge ruled in an unjust way against us, that we would commit it to Him who judges righteously, and guard against criticism against any of us.  The devil wants to sow discord amongst brethren, and, if he can not defeat us one way, he will subtly and craftily look for another way to make us fall to the dishonor of ourselves and especially of our Father in Heaven and the Lord Yeshua, in whose name we trust and whose name is upon us.  When Yeshua was crucified, even His closest companions and chosen vessels to proclaim Him to Israel and to the world, all thought that He had lost and that their hope had been in vain.   Let us, too, learn to let God work through the appearance of defeat (if that should be the case) to show, in truth, that He has won!

Shalom upon Israel, and we thank-you and bless you for your support in the battle,
Howard

This is a reminder about our next and last day in court in our civil lawsuit against Beer Sheva Chief Rabbi Yehuda Deri, and against the Shas-related ‘counter-missionary’ organization, Yad L’Achim.

On Tuesday morning, March 9, in the Beer Sheva Magistrate’s Court Shalom (Room 44, 4th Fl), testimony will be heard by Rabbi Alex Artovsky of Yad L’Achim.  Following his testimony, the lawyers representing the parties will each give their oral closing arguments before the Judge, Iddo Ruzin.  The judge ... Continue reading]]> Shalom,

This is a reminder about our next and last day in court in our civil lawsuit against Beer Sheva Chief Rabbi Yehuda Deri, and against the Shas-related ‘counter-missionary’ organization, Yad L’Achim.

On Tuesday morning, March 9, in the Beer Sheva Magistrate’s Court Shalom (Room 44, 4th Fl), testimony will be heard by Rabbi Alex Artovsky of Yad L’Achim.  Following his testimony, the lawyers representing the parties will each give their oral closing arguments before the Judge, Iddo Ruzin.  The judge will have 30 days in which to render his verdict.

The case arises out of an illegal demonstration and trespass on to private ['church-owned'] property, which developed quickly into a riot, requiring about 70 policemen to bring order after about 3 hours of disturbances preventing lawful assembly for the purpose of conducting lawful religious activities.  All this occurred over four years ago, on Dec. 24, 2005.  The police did not follow up with the case; we filed suit in February 2007.

We are represented by attorneys Marvin Kramer and Kevork Nalbandian.

“For the vineyard of YHVH of Hosts is the House of Israel, and the men of Judah are His pleasant plant.  He looked for justice (righteous judgment), but behold, oppression; for righteousness, but behold, a cry for help.”  (Isaiah 5:7 Hebrew)

In the fear of God,
Howard

Blessings,

Here is a link to a well done video by MAOZ regarding our going to court:

For those who could not open the link http://www.nrg.co.il/online/1/ART1/971/819.html to the original online Maariv newspaper article, it seems to work if you copy and paste, and then click on the Hebrew word at the left side of the page which comes up.

Here is the Caspari Media Review English translation of part of the article: it seems ... Continue reading]]>

MAOZ Video of Lawsuit 

Blessings,

Here is a link to a well done video by MAOZ regarding our going to court:

For those who could not open the link http://www.nrg.co.il/online/1/ART1/971/819.html to the original online Maariv newspaper article, it seems to work if you copy and paste, and then click on the Hebrew word at the left side of the page which comes up.

Here is the Caspari Media Review English translation of part of the article: it seems to indicate that the article says we are suing for slander because of being accused of trying to convert Jews. I had not noticed that in the original, but if that is what it says, please know that we do evangelize whomsoever that they may believe the gospel and be born again, and be conformed to the image of the Son of God.

Date: Wed, 02 Dec 2009 06:01:24 -0500
From: Caspari Center
Subject: Caspari Media Review – December 2, 2009
December 2, 2009

An article published in Ma’ariv (November 27) featured the congregation in Beersheva (Nachalat Yeshua) as its law suit against Yehuda Deri, the city’s chief rabbi, was finally heard. Entitled “He Encountered a Determined Jew,” its subtitle read: “Howard Bass and the Messianic Jews in Beersheva organized a baptismal ceremony. Rabbi Yehuda Deri heard about the planned event, arrived at the premises with his people, and started a riot. They broke Bass’s glasses, threw him into the pool, and destroyed property. This week Deri gave witness in court. ‘I acted as a rabbi is supposed to,’ he explained. ‘I deserve a medal.’” The pastor of the local congregation, Howard Bass, “waited a whole year” before deciding to bring the case against Deri. “‘It’s not easy to bring charges against the chief rabbi of a city,’ he said. ‘We’re talking about the highest spiritual authority in the town. We wanted to do this with care, but we also wanted people to understand that they can’t take the law into their own hands.” Bass is suing Deri for 60,000NIS [approx. $16,000] for damage to property, the breaking of his glasses, and slander.

According to the suit, Deri waited outside the premises while his followers ran amok, only entering three hours later and attempting to calm down the ruckus. Bass claims that the consequences witness to the fact that the demonstration was orchestrated rather than spontaneous. “At present, Bass and Deri face off against one another, each one fortified by his faith and convinced that he did the right thing for his community. Each views the events from the point where he stood when the event occurred: Bass was inside the congregational compound, whereas Deri entered only toward the end of the incident. Whatever the outcome of the trial, the rashomon they represent [i.e., their individual subjective perception] will never be reconciled.” Although Deri insisted that the prayers held outside the building included no violence – “‘Anyone who says otherwise is lying,’ he declared; ‘people came, prayed, sang – nothing else’” – “media reports concerning the demonstration describe disturbances which calmed down only with the intervention of the police. Deri himself, in an interview with ‘Erev Chadash’ [on TV], replied in response to a question concerning why the demonstrators had thrown stones, that the phenomenon of Messianic Jews is a modern twentieth-century form of the Inquisition. ‘We shall not rest or cease,’ he then said.” In defending his decision to call people to pray outside the congregational building, Deri asserted that he wanted the community to “‘think twice about what they were doing, when they saw Jews praying nearby.’” “‘When Jews take on Christian customs,’ he wrote, ‘the chief rabbi has the right to conduct prayers whose purpose is to get that same public to consider their actions. Freedom of religion works both ways.’ At the same time, he was certain that the event would not deteriorate into violence. According to his statement, he emphasized that prayer must be conducted without any disturbance. ‘I’m against violence; any act of violence will gain the opposite effect.’”
Bass, on the other hand, claims that this is a “‘false plea of innocence’ … The dozens of demonstrators who broke into the compound were indeed determined to act, and did so within the framework of an illegal demonstration.” Deri himself claims that he witnessed no violence, maintaining that he cannot be held responsible for people who acted on their own judgment, that he did not call for anyone to demonstrate nor expect people to show up earlier, and that what was done was performed contrary to his call. “‘From the time I arrived, there was no violence,’ he stated in court. ‘I cannot be held responsible for the actions of the demonstrators. The rumor of a baptismal ceremony of Jews reached the ears of others apart from me and the rabbis with whom I consulted, and they decided to trespass and act provocatively. I never expected that anything would be done to desecrate Shabbat; it’s unthinkable that I would incite anyone to desecrate Shabbat.’” Bass, on the other hand, claims that Deri could have entered the compound much earlier than he did (and thus ended the disturbance much more quickly), and that if there was no violence what need was there for seventy policemen to arrive? His demand for 50,000NIS for slander is based on the fact that the following day Deri stated in a radio interview that the congregation was engaged in converting Jews: “‘This is one of the most serious accusations a Jew can make, and no one with Jewish blood in his veins can tolerate listening to such a reproach.’” In response, Deri argued that he was innocently doing his job of making people aware of what was happening.

The court’s ruling will be handed down in a couple of months’ time. “Deri is convinced that it will exonerate him. ‘The person who brought order to the situation was me,’ he said. ‘The person who prevented violence and ordered the people to return to their homes was Yehuda Deri, the chief rabbi of the city. Everything happened before the time scheduled for the prayer assembly. I didn’t hear about any violence. The claims are false … I was the only calming influence there … I acted as a rabbi should.’ [Interviewer:] ‘A rabbi is supposed to bring hundreds of demonstrators to a Messianic congregational service?’ [Deri:] ‘Baptism is a very serious matter. When I receive a report about the baptism of children I must call a prayer assembly. It would be unimaginable for me not to do so. I did my duty. A rabbi cannot be responsible for this or that disturbance. In this matter, I deserve a medal.’”

Many of you have written, and even called, to express your support and encouragements for our day in court today.  This has been wonderfully gratifying to us, for we know through you how much God is with us.

Yesterday, brothers and sisters from all parts of the country, and also from Europe and North America, came together at the ‘Old House’, where the Nachalat Yeshua Congregation meets together to worship.  There was a joyful and meekly confident ... Continue reading]]> Shalom to All,

Many of you have written, and even called, to express your support and encouragements for our day in court today.  This has been wonderfully gratifying to us, for we know through you how much God is with us.

Yesterday, brothers and sisters from all parts of the country, and also from Europe and North America, came together at the ‘Old House’, where the Nachalat Yeshua Congregation meets together to worship.  There was a joyful and meekly confident spirit amongst us all as we gave ourselves to thank, to praise, and to worship our Heavenly Father and the Lord Yeshua, the Lamb upon the Throne.  Something special took place yesterday, which we pray and believe the Holy Spirit to carry through towards sanctifying the Body of Messiah — even as we sanctify ourselves — to fulfill the answer to Messiah’s, the Son of God’s prayer for our complete union, which will be the full testimony of who He is and who we are in Him.  Many thanks to Arni Klein for taking this whole matter to heart, and to act in faith upon it.

Today, we woke up hearing that the court recorders (stenographers) were still on strike, and thought that we may not have a day in court after all.  We know that all of this is in Yeshua’s hands, which is a TREMENDOUS benefit of being His!  At the court, and in the courtroom — once again filled by faithful and interested fellow believers from different cities of Israel (including the Ortiz family) — the judge offered himself to type out the transcript (the protocol), but in a condensed form.  This was accepted by all the parties.

We were able only to question the Beer Sheva Chief Sephardic Rabbi Yehuda Deri.  The judge on several occasions wanted to restrict our lawyer from questioning Deri as much as would be necessary to the main defendant.  It seems that the time was more important than clearly understanding the reason why we have accused Deri of primary responsibility for the illegal events of that day on December 24, 2005.

We were not able to question Rabbi Alex Artovsky of Yad L’Achim today, which will actually give our lawyers more time to prepare closing arguments.  God is for us because we are on His side in Yeshua!   We are actively seeking His help.The judge has scheduled another day to conclude the trial:  Tuesday, March 9, 2010!  The Lord is also the Father of Times!

Our case will not prevent further harassments or persecutions from coming against the believers in Israel.  We hope, though, that by it, it will help to deliver many from being persecutors, and to become lovers and disciples of the One who alone is the Good Shepherd and Righteous King.

Once again, there was no news reporter present.  God will bring the hidden things to light in His way and time.

Thank-you all again for your steadfast prayers and genuine support for us all.  Please remember the Ortizes, as they prepare for their own trial against Yaacov Teitel, the ‘Jewish terrorist’, next month in Jerusalem.

You’re wonderful,
Howard and Randi

This Friday, the Maariv will carry a story about our lawsuit.  This is the first such article as news that the Israeli media is doing!  Other newspapers, such as the HaAretz, which did a major article recently about/against Yad L’Achim and their activities against the Messianic believers, have not covered this story even though a significant chief Rabbi of a major city in Israel is being sued for illegal acts done under his authority.  I contacted ... Continue reading]]> Shalom Achim,

This Friday, the Maariv will carry a story about our lawsuit.  This is the first such article as news that the Israeli media is doing!  Other newspapers, such as the HaAretz, which did a major article recently about/against Yad L’Achim and their activities against the Messianic believers, have not covered this story even though a significant chief Rabbi of a major city in Israel is being sued for illegal acts done under his authority.  I contacted the writer of that story, yet received no response.

For those following our case, we did offer Rabbi Deri [only] another opportunity to issue a public apology, and to pay what amounts to about 1/2 the court and legal expenses, before he must give testimony in court on Monday, Nov 23.  He refused it, just as he did at the beginning.  Although he says that he is ‘against violence’, and knows that ‘pleasant ways’ produce better results, he has no regrets about the violence and unpleasant ways against us, and he denies any responsibility for them.

Attached are directions for getting to the Old House, the Beit Kehilat Nachalat Yeshua, for those coming down sometime during the day on Sunday, Nov 22, to intercede and to worship together.  We will begin at 12:00 noon, and continue until at least 19:00.  A number of people will even be sleeping there.  Anyone else who would also like to sleep there, please notify me in advance so that we can make some [very informal and flexible] arrangements.  There is a full kitchen and also showers.

On Monday, Nov 23, we would again ask that only those who have sufficient understanding of Hebrew try to sit in the very small courtroom.  The doors of the Beer Sheva Magistrate’s Court open at 0830; the trial is scheduled to begin at 0930.  For those who hope to get a seat, it is advisable to arrive at the court building by 0815, in case the supporters of the defendants should also want to get into the court room.  The case will be heard in Room 44, 4th Fl, of Beit Mishpat Shalom, located at the intersection of Itzhak Rager Blvd and Henrietta Szold St.For those who do not know enough Hebrew, and for those who are unable to get a seat inside the court room of Judge Iddo Ruzin, you can remain quietly in the foyer of the 4th floor, without entering into any disputes with those who support the defendants.  Or, from 9:00 till 11:00 at Ha-MaKoM (located within walking distance at the intersection of Herzl St and Rambam St in the Old City).   We do not know how long the day in court may be, but the Judge has said that he wants to conclude it that day.

WE WOULD VERY MUCH BE ENCOURAGED TO HEAR FROM THOSE WHO ARE NOT COMING BUT ARE STANDING WITH US IN SPIRIT.  And if there are any who still feel that our action is improper, you can also speak up so that we can humbly take all things into account as we come before the Lord.

For the true peace in Jerusalem and upon all Israel,
Howard, and Kehilat Nachalat Yeshua/Amutat Nichalim BaNegev

The anticipation of our scheduled final day in court on November 23 is increasing.  Believers from all around Israel and from other nations are writing and encouraging and PRAYING for the righteousness of God to be revealed through the proceedings of the day, and especially in the verdict which the judge will deliver sometime up till December 23, four years after the illegal event which we believe that the anti-Christian/Messianic organization, Yad L’Achim, represented by Rabbi Alex Artovsky, ... Continue reading]]> Dear All,

The anticipation of our scheduled final day in court on November 23 is increasing.  Believers from all around Israel and from other nations are writing and encouraging and PRAYING for the righteousness of God to be revealed through the proceedings of the day, and especially in the verdict which the judge will deliver sometime up till December 23, four years after the illegal event which we believe that the anti-Christian/Messianic organization, Yad L’Achim, represented by Rabbi Alex Artovsky, and the Chief Sephardic Rabbi of Beer Sheva, Yehuda Deri, are legally responsible or irresponsible for inciting and approving.  Sunday the 22nd has been set apart as a national day of worship and intercession, with many from the Body of Messiah in Israel coming together that day.

Both of the defendants are connected with the Chabad sect within ‘normative’ Judaism, and they have elevated their Rebbe from Brooklyn who died in 1994 to a position which can only be properly given to the true Messiah and only-begotten Son of God.  Their rejection of YHVH God’s Anointed One for one who has come in his own name is what animates their extremely hostile spirit.  Along with this is the fear that all they have ever learned as being ‘truth’ is being shown to be actually a lie, and, unless one is prepared to come into the light, then what light there is will fade even more.

Our charges against the two defendants include illegal demonstration; trespass onto private property; offense to religious sensitivities; slander; damage to property, both personal and congregational.  Both of the defendants will testify in court on Nov 23.  The witnesses for our side concluded testimonies on June 10 and 21.  All of the lawyers representing both sides have been instructed by Judge Iddo Ruzin to present their closing arguments verbally in the court on Nov 23.  This is an added burden on ours, Marvin Kramer and Kevork Nalbandian, but also an excellent opportunity to publicly convince the Judge and those in the courtroom of the justification of our case.

Once again we remind you:  This case is not against Israel or against the Jewish people. It is not to be used in any way to foment or promote anti-Israel or anti-Jewish actions or reactions. It is already known through the Scriptures that Israel at present is opposed to the good news of God, so we are not out to make them an enemy. Nor is our legal action intended to be used by any other minority or religious groups in Israel to encourage or affirm anti-Israel/Jewish sentiment. For the sake of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, Israel and her people are beloved by God the Father for His honor and glory, and for the honor and glory of His Son.It is clear to all of you who have joined with us that this lawsuit is not a personal one, but rather a representative one.  That is why the Holy Spirit has been bringing us all together and so many taking part in the battle for the sanctification of the name of the Lord Yeshua Messiah/ Jesus Christ here in Israel, the land and the people which are His both by birthright and by the Father’s covenantal blessings.  In any case, since Yeshua is Heir of all things and has authority over all things, we want and pray that the fear of YHVH would come upon His people, and that many would be saved by calling upon His name.  The knowledge that there is both good and evil already makes us ‘like God’, but to be truly a child of God is not only to know that there is both good and evil, but to also discern and distinguish between them — and to choose the good! almost a month earlier who planted the bomb at the Ortiz home at Purim, March 2008, almost killing the youngest son, Ami.  The Jewish American Israeli nationalist zealot has also confessed to other actual murders and attempted murders of others he  perceives to be a threat to his version of a Jewish Zionist state;

Very recently two significant news items have surfaced which helps to put our case and that of the situation involving the Ortiz family in Ariel in perspective for those who have eyes to see:
    firstly, on Oct 28 the gag order was removed regarding the arrest of the man who was arrested

   secondly, yesterday’s (Monday) Maariv newspaper headlined on the front page an extreme Jewish rabbi and his new book in which he promotes the killing of Gentiles and any  others who threaten his version of a Jewish Zionist state.

We want to work while it is still day.  The night IS coming, and, according to the words of Messiah Himself, no one will be able to work.  May the power and grace of our God work in and through us to honor His holy name.

God bless you, and all of us together for His name’s sake, and for the gospel,
Howard

I want to update you on some good news regarding our lawsuit against the Beer Sheva Chief Sephardic Rabbi Yehuda Deri, and against the anti-great commission organization, Yad L’Achim with Rabbi Alex Atrovsky as their representative being the head of their Struggle Against the Mission section, scheduled to be completed in the Beer Sheva Magistrate’s Court in our civil suit on November 23, ... Continue reading]]> Shalom, and thank God for Yeshua that our names are already written in the Lamb’s Book of Life!

I want to update you on some good news regarding our lawsuit against the Beer Sheva Chief Sephardic Rabbi Yehuda Deri, and against the anti-great commission organization, Yad L’Achim with Rabbi Alex Atrovsky as their representative being the head of their Struggle Against the Mission section, scheduled to be completed in the Beer Sheva Magistrate’s Court in our civil suit on November 23, with a decision by Judge Iddo Ruzin by December 23, exactly four years from the [second] riotous event against our congregation, Nachalat Yeshua (Yeshua’s Inheritance).  The two defendants are the only ones remaining to testify in the court proceedings. 

Judge Ruzin has approved us obtaining the recording as admissible evidence, even though our knowledge of its still existence came very late.  This is very good, and we pray still that the judge will actually listen to it!  It was the attitude and the tone of the rabbi in this interview that really had us consider from the Lord if we should take the matter to court this time, including his false statements and his disregard for the rule of law in their actions against people like us.

It is very important to continue to pray for our two lawyers, Marvin Kramer and Kevork Nalbandian.  They have to really be led by the Spirit of Messiah in their handling of the case in court, in order to prove and to convince the judge that the two defendants are in fact responsible — or irresponsible — for the illegal demonstration and other violations of law that day.  The defendants have to incriminate themselves in the courtroom before the judge!  At the same time, they/we must show respect for Rabbi Deri because he is a Chief Rabbi of a major city in Israel and also a regional Rabbinic Judge (Acts 23:5; Ex 22:28).Remember that our case is not only against private parties, but against religious authorities and spiritual strongholds, defining a whole society and culture.  And again, I want to emphasize that this case is not against Israel or against the Jewish people. It is not to be used in any way to foment or promote anti-Israel or anti-Jewish actions or reactions. It is already known through the Scriptures that Israel at present is opposed to the good news of God, so we are not out to make them an enemy. Nor is our legal action intended to be used by any other minority or religious groups in Israel to encourage or affirm anti-Israel/Jewish sentiment. For the sake of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, Israel and her people are beloved by God the Father for His honor and glory, and for the honor and glory of His Son.

A number of worship groups and intercessors have already indicated that they want to come down to Beer Sheva over the next couple of months leading up to the trial date, and perhaps even till the judge’s decision.  Groups from within Israel and from abroad, especially from Germany, are truly going to battle with us in a marvelous way.  Local believers and congregations around Israel are joining with us in words of encouragement from themselves and/or from the Word of God; with financial contributions; with prayers and intercession; with appearing in the courtroom in our two previous occasions in June.

We bless you from Beer Sheva, the City of the Fathers – of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob/Israel.

Howard and Randi

 Your and our prayers have been heard and answered regarding the audio recording of the radio interview with the rabbi on December 25, 2005, the day after the illegal demonstration!

CBN

The segment on the 700 Club begins about 6:30 minutes into their program.

Another CBN Video   Jerusalem Post Article

Here is the link to my Jerualem Post article:  

“A Nation Under Law?”

Thanks again for expressing so much support for us throughout this lawsuit, which is a significant part of what the Lord is seeking through our stand together.

Our trial — no pun intended but very apropos — is not yet over, and will be convened again for a final date on November 23 at 9:30 in the morning.  The verdict will then be given by December 23.

I have been greatly encouraged by the response of the believers within and without Israel to us and this case.  It anticipates a day when there will be a ... Continue reading]]> Good evening from here after a hot, hard, and long day.

Our trial — no pun intended but very apropos — is not yet over, and will be convened again for a final date on November 23 at 9:30 in the morning.  The verdict will then be given by December 23.

I have been greatly encouraged by the response of the believers within and without Israel to us and this case.  It anticipates a day when there will be a unity that transcends all those things that still is out of God’s order in His perfect redemption of His creation.

Thank God that we can trust in Him!  He rules in Heaven and Earth and in our hearts, which sustains us in opposition to sin and sinners against His righteousness and glory.  When there is no fear of God, anything can become justifiable.  We still pray and believe that the truth will be heard, discerned, and judged as truth, wiping every smug smile off those who do not want to come to the light, because their deeds are evil.  Without Yeshua as our Head is to be as without God in the world in a daily and practical way.  We once were like that, and it is dreadful to consider where I would be today if that were still the case.

The courtroom was filled today by believers, from different parts of the country, who got there early enough to have a seat in the small room (maximum 20 seats for visitors).  While we were all waiting for the defendants and their lawyers to arrive, we introduced ourselves to one another and prayed with each other!  The only person in the room during that precious time was a journalist for the Jerusalem Post, Larry Derfner, who came down to cover the story.  So far, he is the ONLY secular reporter to take an interest, after some urging by other believers who know him.  His article is supposed to appear in the Friday, July 3rd, edition of the Post, in their Friday magazine section.  (I have been offered to write an article for the Post this week, which, if printed, should be in this week’s paper sometime as an opinion piece.) For some reason hard to understand, the Judge did not accept the Chabad Rabbi and head of their yeshiva (rabbinic orthodox educational system) as a hostile witness, which was why we subpoenaed him.  On the witness stand, he called us “troublers” (like Ahab called Elijah), and claimed that Messianic Jews do not exist (since they think that a Jewish person who believes in Yeshua/Jesus is not a Jew).  Of course, remember that Chabad believes that the rabbi from Brooklyn, who died in 1994, is the Messiah!

By strangely not accepting him as a hostile witness, who is the one whose English was featured in a major Hebrew newspaper in April 2008 to convey his expressive ‘admiration’ for me, the Judge did not allow our lawyers to question him any differently than had he been a witness for us!

Our case rests on words spoken and written by the defendants themselves the day after the riot.  We have sufficiently demonstrated to the judge that an extremely serious riot took place, which is the reason for the compensatory damages we are seeking.  November 23 is the day we have to prove that the two defendants are joined together and responsible for that event.  What seems so obvious is not so simple to prove in a court of law.  In the same, but more perfect, way that the defense attorneys and the judge want to  pressure us as the plaintiffs, so will the Righteous Judge and Lawgiver hold those who oppose Him answerable in the Judgment Day.  It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the Living God!  Every mouth will be stopped, but those redeemed by the blood of the Lamb will burst with inexpressible joy!

Your prayers to God and your words to us will move the Lord to do something wonderful for His glory.  Thank-you.
Howard and Randi

We want to thank so many of you who have written or called, both before the day in court today, and since we left there this afternoon.  Your support and encouragement have been a real strength for us and a hopeful indication of the Lord’s blessings upon this entire affair.  Also, on Sunday, the evening of praise and intercession was very freeing in the Spirit and a big part of our preparation for the battle we are in.  ... Continue reading]]> Shalom Brethren,

We want to thank so many of you who have written or called, both before the day in court today, and since we left there this afternoon.  Your support and encouragement have been a real strength for us and a hopeful indication of the Lord’s blessings upon this entire affair.  Also, on Sunday, the evening of praise and intercession was very freeing in the Spirit and a big part of our preparation for the battle we are in.  It was a very tiring day.  It is very much WORK for the lawyers.

It is definitely a battle, but it is also the day that the Lord has made!  A number of brothers and sisters have received Psalm 37 as a word for us, as well as Isaiah 51:1-8.

Arab brothers have also stood with us, and one dear brother even came to the court today from the far north!  The Body of Messiah in Israel is being prepared for greater things to come!

Judge Iddo Ruzin today was very tough, but I would say fair.  Most of the witnesses on our side were called, which was actually a surprise for both sides that things were moved along so quickly.  THE JUDGE ADMITTED THAT “A VERY SERIOUS INCIDENT” OCCURRED AND THAT THAT IS INDISPUTABLE.  What we must do at the next session on Sunday, June 21, is prove that Rabbi Deri and Yad L’Achim are linked to this ‘very serious incident’ and are responsible and liable for the riot and offenses and damages.We want to make the name of Yeshua honorable and faith in Him acceptable as Jews.  I personally believe that by upholding a righteous standard the Holy Spirit can ‘more effectively’ bring conviction of sin, which Yeshua described as “not believing in Him”.  We want to be credible as witnesses and shown to be responsible and accountable for our actions and words.

We pray that this case will be used by the Lord towards more Jewish/Israeli people being freed from the strongholds over their minds against the gospel, and to believe it!  Lawlessness will increase, whether we win or ‘lose’ this case, and we desire God’s mercy to save more before the wrath to come.

Additional Prayer Points for June 21

–for God to continue to confuse lying tongues
–that Deri and the Yad L’Achim rep, [probably] Alex Artrovski, will not give compatible testimonies
–that their lawyers will not be able to undo damage done in cross-examination by our lawyers, Marvin and Kevork, of Deri and Artrovski
–discernment for Judge Iddo Ruzin as to who is speaking truth
–boldness to render a decision in accordance with God’s righteousness

Even so, come Lord Jesus,
Howard

Last night we had a wonderful time of praise and intercession for the trial here in Beer Sheva on Wednesday (and again on Sunday, June 21).  Worship and intercessory leaders all came together from the different parts of the country to lead in prayer and praise to the Lord on behalf of His name in our trial against the ... Continue reading]]> Dear Faithful Companions in the trials and tribulations for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints, (aren’t salutations great!)

Last night we had a wonderful time of praise and intercession for the trial here in Beer Sheva on Wednesday (and again on Sunday, June 21).  Worship and intercessory leaders all came together from the different parts of the country to lead in prayer and praise to the Lord on behalf of His name in our trial against the Chief Sephardi Rabbi of Beer Sheva, Yehuda Deri’, and against the anti-Great Commission organization, Yad L’Achim.  It was a very encouraging and uplifting evening here, both regarding the trial itself, and also for a breakthrough in the spirit amongst the Jewish people.  It was an expression that this case is seen as a national issue and not only as one affecting Beer Sheva or Nachalat Yeshua Cong.  Our two lawyers, Marvin Kramer and Kevork Nalbandian, were present, as well as four of the seven witnesses (not counting myself).  Wednesday morning throughout the time of the trial, which is scheduled to begin at 9:00 local time, there will be continued praying and praise taking place.

There is much encouragement IN THE LORD!

Prayer Points:–that the truth versus lies would be evident
–for Judge Iddo Ruzin to be filled with the fear of God
–for our lawyers to be alert to the promptings of the Holy Spirit as they manage to trial
–for confusion and division within the house of the adversaries
–for clarity and Holy Spirit control within us as we testify and respond to cross-examination
–for the advance of God’s purposes towards His righteous judgments and the coming of the Lord Jesus,
  bringing salvation to those whose hearts are steadfast on Him
–for more fruit of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the believers participating in this case, WHATEVER THE OUTWARD OUTCOME

Num 10:35-36 (read out last night):

“So it was, whenever the ark set out, that Moses said:  ‘RISE UP, YHVH!  Let Your enemies be scattered, and let those who hate You flee before You!’
And when it rested, he said:  ‘RETURN, YHVH, TO THE MANY THOUSANDS OF ISRAEL.’ ”

Thank-you all for your standing with us for the name of the Holy One of Israel to be honored in His own people and land and city.

Howard and Randi

We were greatly encouraged at the ... Continue reading]]> Dear Brothers and Sisters,
In addition, on Sunday, June 7, from 1830 (6:30pm), at the Old House of Kehilat Nachalat Yeshua, there will be an evening of PRAISE, WORSHIP, AND INTERCESSION before God regarding the trial.  This is a very significant case, and I am truly blessed to have the Body coming together with us for the battle, which is in Yeshua’s sovereign hands. 

We were greatly encouraged at the SAYF (Sitting at Yeshua’s Feet) retreat the last few days  regarding our upcoming trial.  A wide and varied representation of leadership within the Body of Messiah in Israel gave strong backing for our offensive action against those who aggressively oppose the work of God here in Israel.  A number of the leaders are planning on being present in the court on the day of the trial (details are below in a letter sent out earlier to the Israeli Messianic leadership). 

Beer Sheva holds an important place in God’s covenant purposes for Israel — from the beginning with the ‘Fathers’, and in our times with the return of the Land to the children of Jacob/Israel, and in releasing the refreshing, life-giving waters of the good news of GOD the Father to the still lost sheep of the House of Israel.Shalom Achim,

Let God arise,

In His service with you,
Howard

As some of you know, I and amutat Nichalim BaNegev have filed suit against the Chief Sephardi Rabbi of Beer Sheva, Yehuda Deri (brother of Arieh), and against the anti-Great Commission organization, Yad L’Achim.

The suit comes after prayer and consultation with other leaders in Beer Sheva, the Negev, and around the country.  It is based on the riot which the two parties were responsible for organizing against Kehilat Nachalat Yeshua on 24 Dec 2005.

The trial dates are set for June 10 and 21 in Beer Sheva at Beit Mishpat HaShalom (which is located in a tall, massive, white stone and glass building on the left side just past the ‘iriya‘ as you drive into Beer Sheva on Hgwy 40, and continue on Sderot Itzhak Rager).

Our lawyers are Marvin Kramer and Kevork Nalbandian.  We would ask you all to keep us all, and our 7 other excellent witnesses, in prayer.  The judge is Iddo Ruzin, who also needs our prayers.

We want to encourage any of you who can to be with us in the court room on the designated days:  on June 10 at 9:00; on the 21st at 12:30.  Note:  It is advisable to get there much earlier in order to be more certain of getting a seat in the courtroom.The trial is a case to uphold the legitimate right to express the true Messianic faith in Yeshua here in Beer Sheva and in Israel, according to the existing laws which supposedly govern the State.  Our nation was re-established literally on the ashes of people who were killed and then dishonorably cremated because they were Jewish — mostly unknowing witnesses of the one true God who chose them and gave them a destiny still to be fulfilled.

Now we, who believe in the one true God and in Yeshua Messiah whom He sent, are being targeted because we are mostly knowing witnesses whom He has chosen.

Our lawyers and witnesses for the trial are an incredibly diverse group expressing the truth that the God of the Jews is also the God of the Gentiles, and that Yeshua is the one who gathers us and brings us home to the Father.  What is so striking about these who have agreed to testify publicly for the sake of truth and righteousness? :

We have a New York/Israeli Jewish believer; an Armenian/Israeli Orthodox believer; a white Scandinavian/American Christian; an Arab Israeli Christian; a Canadian/Israeli Messianic Jew; an Israeli sabra believer; another American Christian; a Spanish/Israeli Roman Catholic; an Israeli/American Jewish Christian; and, an American/Israeli Jewish believer in Jesus.

What a testimony itself of what the Lord has done!  May our combined witness and testimony speak to those who are looking and listening, to the glory of our great God and Savior.

Please keep this whole matter in prayer, perhaps even fasting, and encourage others to join in, that the will of God is done, and that His righteousness is revealed!We look forward to the day when the prophetic words of Zechariah, the father of John the baptizer, written for us in Luke 1:68-75, will be fully filled in Israel when Yeshua returns!

I include here what I have always sent out to anyone I have communicated with regarding this significant court case:

Please note:  This case is not against Israel or against the Jewish people. It is not to be used in any way to foment or promote anti-Israel or anti-Jewish actions or reactions. It is already known through the Scriptures that Israel at present is opposed to the good news of God, so we are not out to make them an enemy. Nor is our legal action intended to be used by any other minority or religious groups in Israel to encourage or affirm anti-Israel/Jewish sentiment. For the sake of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, Israel and her people are beloved by God the Father for His honor and glory, and for the honor and glory of His Son.For the salvation of the Jewish people and of Israel, and of many Gentiles whom God will use to provoke His people to jealousy and to show mercy to them,
Howard