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Founded in Truth Fellowship - Bible Teachings and Sermons

Founded in Truth Fellowship - Bible Teachings and Sermons

By: Founded in Truth Fellowship - Bible Teachings and Sermons
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 Founded in Truth Fellowship is a Messianic Fellowship in Rock Hill, SC that provides Biblical teachings, fellowship, and resources for Biblical studies. Founded in Truth Fellowship is able to spread the gospel and the word of Yeshua because of supporters like you. If Founded in Truth has been a blessing to you or your family, we ask that you would give so that the same messages can bless others. To give to Founded in Truth Fellowship, click this link ”https://foundedintruth.com/give”Copyright 2024 All rights reserved. Christianity Judaism Spirituality
Episodes
  • The Jerusalem Council: Applying the Torah to Gentiles

    The Jerusalem Council: Applying the Torah to Gentiles
    Aug 26 2025
    The Jerusalem Council: Applying the Torah to Gentiles Introduction to Acts 15 and the Jerusalem Council The sermon delivered at Founded in Truth Fellowship explores the pivotal narrative of the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15. The speaker delves into the controversial question addressed by this council: "Is it necessary to circumcise Gentile believers and order them to keep the law of Moses?" This question, presented by some Pharisees, was debated among the apostles and elders, leading to a decision that would shape the early Christian community. Four Commandments for Gentile Believers Acts 15 reveals the apostles’ decision that Gentile believers must follow four specific commandments: abstain from things polluted by idols, avoid sexual immorality, refrain from consuming strangled animals, and abstain from blood. These rules, derived from Leviticus 17-18, demonstrate that the apostles expected Gentile followers of Yeshua to start with these basic tenets of Torah observance. Challenging Common Interpretations A major part of the sermon challenges the interpretation that Acts 15 represents a rejection of the Law of Moses for Gentiles. Instead, the decision is seen as a starting point for Gentiles to grow in Torah observance over time. This approach refutes the notion that the apostles discarded the Torah’s relevance for Gentiles, suggesting instead that the apostles imposed these commandments as a foundation, intending that Gentiles would learn more as they heard the Torah preached in synagogues every Sabbath. Contextualizing the Debate To understand the Jerusalem Council's decision, the sermon refers to the broader biblical context and Jewish history. Comparisons are drawn with the story of King Azates and his Jewish advisor Ananias, as described by first-century historian Josephus. This historical account reflects similar debates about circumcision and Torah observance for Gentiles, showing that differing views existed even within early Jewish communities. Tying Circumcision to Torah Observance The sermon examines the Torah’s instructions on circumcision, notably distinguishing between passages relevant only to Israelites and those applicable to Gentiles. Exodus 12:48 is identified as the only passage concerning adult Gentile circumcision, which applies specifically to partaking in the Passover sacrifice. This distinction supports the notion that Gentiles were welcomed into the community without mandatory circumcision, contrary to some first-century Jewish beliefs. Implications for Gentile Inclusion The results of the Jerusalem Council, as described in Acts 15, highlight the apostles’ approach to inclusion and discipleship. Rather than imposing circumcision, the apostles provided the four commandments as a basis for fellowship, allowing Gentiles to integrate into the community and gradually adopt further Torah observance. The weekly reading of Moses in synagogues served as a tool for ongoing discipleship and learning. Takeaways and Life Applications Recognize the importance of starting with foundational teachings in discipleship, as seen in the apostles' decision to impose four key commandments on Gentile believers.Acknowledge the ongoing relevance of the Torah for all believers, encouraging personal growth in understanding and applying its teachings.Understand that inclusion in the faith community should precede expecting complete conformity to all aspects of biblical teaching, allowing for growth over time.Embrace the biblical standard upheld by the apostles, aiming to align personal faith practices with scriptural teachings rather than subjective preferences. Conclusion: The Apostolic Standard The message concludes with a call to adhere to the biblical standard set by the apostles, emphasizing the relevance and application of God's Word. Inclusion in the community should be prioritized to facilitate discipleship, allowing new believers to grow in their faith through continued engagement with scripture. The speaker encourages listeners to study, understand, and correctly apply the teachings of the Torah as part of their faith journey. Bible Verses Referenced Acts 15Matthew 28:20Matthew 5:17-20Ephesians 6Romans 13Romans 8Exodus 12:48Leviticus 12:3Leviticus 17Leviticus 18 Recommended Resources The New Testament and the People of God by N.T. WrightDivine Conspiracy by Dallas WillardThe Bible Project by Tim Mackie For more Bible Teachings, click here. Note: This article contains affiliate links.
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  • The Jerusalem Council: Applying the Torah to Gentiles

    The Jerusalem Council: Applying the Torah to Gentiles
    Aug 26 2025
    The Jerusalem Council: Applying the Torah to Gentiles Today's message from Matthew Vander Els dives deep into the events of the Jerusalem Council as recounted in Acts 15. This council, comprised of Jewish apostles and elders, addressed a crucial question of the early church: Should Gentile believers be circumcised and adhere to the Law of Moses? The discussion unfolded in response to certain Pharisees' insistence on this necessity, particularly the requirement of circumcision before keeping the Torah. Main Points of the Teaching The apostles decided that instead of requiring physical circumcision, Gentile believers should adhere to four specific commandments found in the Torah: Abstain from things polluted by idols.Abstain from sexual immorality.Abstain from strangled animals.Abstain from consuming blood. These instructions are rooted in the Law of Moses, specifically from Leviticus 17-18, which highlights that they are not merely arbitrary but follow a biblical precedent for both Israelites and foreigners living among them. This challenges the common interpretation that the apostles intended to dismiss the Torah for Gentile followers. Debating the Common Interpretation The common view suggests that Acts 15 signifies a rejection of the Torah for Gentile believers. However, Vander Els challenges this by exploring the implications of the apostles' decisions. The four commandments presented were not the complete set of expectations but a starting point for Torah observance. The belief that both uncircumcised Jews and Gentiles should observe some Torah commandments is supported by broader biblical context. Historically, Jews like Ananias, mentioned by Josephus, contended that circumcision wasn't necessary for Gentiles eager to follow the God of Israel, aligning with the apostles' decision to not enforce circumcision upon Gentiles. Peter's Argument and James' Conclusion Peter argued before the council that God had already accepted Gentiles without circumcision, as witnessed by their receipt of the Holy Spirit. James supported this by referencing Amos 9:11-12, which foresaw the inclusion of the Gentiles. Consequently, the council rejected the Pharisees' proposal, opting instead for the aforementioned four commandments. The apostles' stance was clear: circumcision wasn't necessary for Gentiles to be included among God's people. Their decision was twofold: Gentiles must comply with these initial prohibitions and learn more about the Torah over time as they attended synagogues where Moses was preached every Sabbath (Acts 15:21). Implications and Practical Takeaways Acts 15 presents a model for inclusion within the faith community, affirmed through these commandments. Gentile believers were expected to gradually adopt more of the Torah's teachings over time, facilitated by their attendance in synagogues. Today's believers can glean several practical lessons from this: Avoid sexual immorality, idolatry, and dietary prohibitions outlined by the apostles.Adopt a biblical standard, as the apostles did, by applying the Torah appropriately to life.Embrace inclusion before expecting complete conformity to every detail of biblical teaching. Meeting people where they are is crucial for effective discipleship. Vander Els emphasizes that inclusion must come before expecting perfection. This approach mirrors how the apostles welcomed Gentiles into the community, allowing for a journey of learning and growth in adherence to the Torah. Final Reflection The central takeaway from the Jerusalem Council's decision is the ongoing relevance and applicability of God's word. It is a reminder that our task is to understand and rightly apply the scripture without adding or taking away from it. For more Bible Teachings, click here. Bible Verses Referenced Acts 15Matthew 28:20Matthew 5:17-20Ephesians 6Romans 13Romans 8:4Leviticus 17-18Exodus 12:48Genesis 17:12 Recommended Books & Resources The New Testament in Its World by N.T. WrightThe Divine Conspiracy by Dallas WillardTorah Matters by Benjamin Frostad Note: This article contains affiliate links.
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  • Homeward Bound: The ”WAY” of Isaiah

    Homeward Bound: The ”WAY” of Isaiah
    Jun 29 2025
    Homeward Bound: The "WAY" of Isaiah In this sermon from the Founded in Truth Fellowship, we dive into the profound connections between the ancient prophecies of Isaiah and Yeshua's ministry, as presented by Matthew Vander Els. The series, titled "Homeward Bound," explores the concept of the "WAY" as a metaphor for the journey of God's people, both in the past and for us today. The Start of a Journey: Moses and the Exodus Narrative The teaching begins by drawing a parallel between Moses' journey and Yeshua's impact. Moses' descent from Mount Sinai, with the tablets of God's law, marked the beginning of a significant journey for the Israelites — a journey toward the Promised Land post-exodus. This moment is framed as a journey home, a theme echoed in the New Testament through Yeshua's teachings and actions. Key Takeaways: Moses' encounter at Mount Sinai is a pivotal moment that sets the Israelites on a journey home, a theme revisited in the teachings of Yeshua.The giving of the law guided the Israelites, just as Yeshua's teachings guide us on our spiritual journey today. Yeshua as the New Moses Fast forward to Yeshua, who, like Moses, ascends and descends a mountain, but this time with teachings that reshape the understanding of God's kingdom. When Yeshua descends, as described in Matthew 8:1, it signals the beginning of a new journey — a New Exodus. This journey is not just geographical but spiritual, leading to the salvation of all people, Jew and Gentile alike. Key Takeaways: Yeshua's descent marks the start of a new spiritual exodus, offering redemption and a path to God’s kingdom for all.The early Christians identified as "The Way," echoing Isaiah's prophecy of a path to divine salvation. Exploring Isaiah's Prophecies The book of Isaiah is a complex tapestry of themes that scholars categorize into three sections: pre-exile, exile, and post-exile. Isaiah prophesies a new Exodus, greater than the first, where God promises to make a way through the wilderness and rivers in the wasteland (Isaiah 43:16-19). This prophecy, however, is not limited to a single nation but encompasses all of humanity. Key Takeaways: Isaiah's prophecy of a greater exodus foretells a salvation that includes all nations, not just Israel.This new journey is marked by miracles and a divine highway, symbolizing God's transformative power. Yeshua Fulfilling Isaiah's Vision Yeshua's ministry directly ties into Isaiah's vision, performing miracles that demonstrate the arrival of God's kingdom. As seen in Matthew 8, Yeshua heals a leper, a centurion's servant, and Peter's mother-in-law, acts that symbolize the breaking of societal barriers and the inclusivity of God's love. Key Takeaways: The miracles serve as a sign of the new exodus, showcasing the breaking of physical and social barriers.Yeshua's actions affirm the fulfillment of Isaiah's vision of liberation and healing for all humanity. The Significance of the New Exodus Yeshua's death and resurrection, particularly during Passover, inaugurate a new phase of this journey. His sacrifice is the ultimate fulfillment of the exodus motif, where the blood of the lamb saves not just Israel but all of humanity, offering a path out of spiritual bondage. Key Takeaways: The cross is portrayed as the ultimate pathway to freedom from sin and death, available to all who believe.Yeshua's resurrection initiates the new creation, inviting believers to walk in the way of the new exodus. Living Out the Way Today As modern believers, our journey mirrors that of the early Christians known as "The Way." We navigate a world where we are called to be part of this ongoing exodus, to live out the teachings of Yeshua, and to invite others onto this path of redemption and life. Life Applications: Embrace the identity of being part of "The Way," living with purpose and mission in a world that often feels like a wilderness.Engage in acts of love, inclusion, and healing as reflections of Yeshua's ministry, recognizing that these are part of the new exodus journey.Seek opportunities to lead others to the true Promised Land — a life of communion with God. Conclusion: The Invitation to the Journey The sermon underscores that the journey depicted in the Bible is not historical fiction but an ongoing narrative in which we are invited to participate. As followers of "The Way," we are called to live in the light of Yeshua's teachings, continuously moving towards the kingdom of God and inviting others along this path. This ancient journey continues, and each step taken in faith is a step closer to the realization of God’s kingdom on earth. Bible Verses Mentioned Matthew 8:1Isaiah 43:16-19Isaiah 49:6Matthew 11:4-5 Recommended Resources The Kingdom of God in Creation by Dallas WillardSurprised by Hope by N.T. WrightThe Bible Project by Tim Mackie For more Bible Teachings, click here. Note: This article contains affiliate links.
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