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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    Less than 1 minute
  • 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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    Less than 1 minute
  • 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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    Less than 1 minute
  • The Journey to Find the King - Matthew 25

    The Journey to Find the King - Matthew 25
    Jun 22 2025
    The Journey to Find the King - Matthew 25 In a recent sermon at Founded in Truth Fellowship, Matthew Vander Els illuminated the profound lessons from Matthew 25. The sermon began with an urgent call to action regarding the foster care system, reflecting the ongoing need for community engagement and support. The sermon seamlessly transitioned into exploring three parables in Matthew 25, each offering a distinct perspective on readiness and responsibility in the Christian walk. Parable of the Ten Virgins The first parable discussed was the Ten Virgins, a compelling narrative illustrating the importance of preparedness. Five virgins were prepared with extra oil for their lamps while the other five were not. This allegory emphasizes the necessity of not just being prepared but being actively engaged in anticipation. The Greek word "hetoimos" was highlighted, indicating a state of active readiness. Here, the message underscores the idea that followers of Christ must be vigilant and proactive in their faith journey, ensuring they are ready to meet their King. Parable of the Bags of Gold Next, the parable of the Bags of Gold, often referred to as the Parable of the Talents, was evaluated. A master entrusted his servants with wealth, expecting them to invest and grow it in his absence. Two servants succeeded, but one, paralyzed by fear, buried his talent. This narrative showcases the dangers of inaction and the importance of using God-given gifts to further His kingdom. The servant's failure was not just inaction but a refusal to align with the master's expectations, illustrating the responsibility Christians have to actively engage with the world using the resources God has provided. Parable of the Sheep and the Goats The final parable, the Sheep and the Goats, presents a powerful lesson on compassion and empathy. This tale delineates between those who serve the least of society and those who do not, asserting that service to the vulnerable is tantamount to serving Christ Himself. The sermon emphasized that this parable challenges believers to go beyond surface-level faith and engage deeply with the marginalized, reflecting the character of God through acts of mercy and kindness. Key Takeaways and Life Applications Embrace active readiness in your spiritual journey, being prepared to meet Christ through ongoing engagement and vigilance.Utilize your talents and resources wisely, recognizing that inaction and fear lead to spiritual stagnation.Actively serve the vulnerable and marginalized, understanding that these actions are directly aligned with serving Christ.Reflect on the role of an ambassador for Christ, fully embodying His teachings and extending kindness and love to all.Remember that preparedness is not passive but involves actively participating in God's work in the world. The Larger Message The sermon delved into the Greek Orthodox iconography of the "prepared throne," representing the ongoing reign of Christ through His followers. This imagery beautifully depicts the theological concept that while Christ reigns in heaven, His presence is made manifest on earth through the actions of His church. This understanding calls believers to actively participate in His kingdom, offering an invitation to make His love visible in the world. By reflecting on these parables, Matthew Vander Els reminded the congregation of the continuous responsibility Christians have to actively pursue Christ-like living. The prepared throne invites believers to see themselves as vessels through which Christ enriches the world, urging them to seize opportunities to exhibit His love and justice. Conclusion The sermon closed with a communal call to action, encouraging engagement in the foster care and adoption ministries. Through these efforts, the unseen and unheard gain visibility, embodying the message of Matthew 25 in practical, life-changing ways. As believers, we are called to demonstrate readiness and compassion, echoing the call of the King we seek to follow. For more Bible Teachings, click here. Bible Verses Mentioned Matthew 25Psalm 68:5Isaiah 1:17Deuteronomy 10:18Hebrews 3:1 Recommended Books/Resources Simply Jesus by N.T. WrightThe Divine Conspiracy by Dallas WillardThe Bible Project by Tim Mackie Note: This article contains affiliate links.
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    35 mins
  • Sermon on the Mount - The Foolish and the Floods

    Sermon on the Mount - The Foolish and the Floods
    Jun 15 2025
    trim(replace(Sermon on the Mount - The Foolish and the Floods In a compelling conclusion to the lengthy study of Yeshua's Sermon on the Mount, the teaching at Founded in Truth Fellowship delves into the parable of the wise and foolish builders, found in Matthew 7:24-27. This teaching, reminiscent of ancient wisdom parables, underscores the importance of building our lives on a stable foundation amidst life's storms. Main Themes and Insights The sermon begins by reflecting on the dualistic nature of life's choices as presented in the Sermon on the Mount. Yeshua highlights two paths, two gates, two houses, and ultimately, two decisions. The crux of the teaching is the contrast between choices leading to life and those leading to destruction. The imagery of two builders constructing houses on different foundations serves as a potent metaphor for the choices individuals make in their spiritual lives. Yeshua's teaching doesn't provide a one-size-fits-all blueprint for life. Instead, it emphasizes that love and humility should form the basis of our choices. The story of the wise and foolish builders draws heavily on Israel's past, inviting the audience to consider what foundation they are truly building upon. "What are you really building your life upon?" is the pivotal question Yeshua poses. Yeshua's Authority One of the striking aspects of Yeshua's teachings is His authoritative voice. Unlike the rabbis of His day who relied heavily on the teachings of their predecessors, Yeshua speaks with unparalleled authority, likening Himself to Moses. The parallel drawn between Yeshua's ascent up the mountain to deliver teachings and Moses' ascent to receive the commandments further underscores Yeshua's authority. The audience's amazement at His teachings lies in this very authority and the revelation He brings. The Role of Lady Wisdom Another layer to understanding Yeshua's teachings is the role of Lady Wisdom, a metaphorical figure in Proverbs embodying divine wisdom. Yeshua's parables echo Lady Wisdom's warnings about the perils of ignoring divine wisdom. Emphasizing wisdom's role in life, Yeshua appeals to His audience to build their lives on the solid rock of His teachings, akin to the wisdom personified by Lady Wisdom. Building on the Rock Yeshua's reference to the rock in His parable resonates with His Jewish audience's understanding of the temple on Mount Zion—standing firm amidst chaos. By calling His followers a city on a hill, Yeshua invites them to represent God's kingdom on earth, built on the unshakeable foundation of His teachings. Historical Context and Warnings The parable also serves as a prophetic warning about the impending Roman invasion and the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. Yeshua's generation faced dire choices between cultural assimilation with Rome or violent revolt. Both paths led to destruction, yet Yeshua offers a third way: the way of the kingdom, marked by surrender to God's power and wisdom rather than worldly pursuits of control and security. Takeaways and Life Applications Build your life on the solid foundation of Yeshua's teachings, not on fleeting worldly promises.Embrace love and humility in all decisions, as these should underpin every action and choice.Seek wisdom from divine teachings, recognizing the voice of God as the true guide in life's journey.Acknowledge Yeshua's authority and allow His revelation to shape your perspective and actions.Remember the historical and prophetic context of Yeshua’s teachings, learning from past mistakes to avoid future calamities. Conclusion: Building the Kingdom Ultimately, the teaching concludes by reinforcing that Yeshua doesn't offer mere survival tactics or happiness tips. Instead, He invites us into the kingdom of God, asking us to pledge allegiance to His eternal kingdom. The choice of foundation—sand or rock—determines our standing when life's inevitable floods come. Reflecting on what kingdom we are building prompts us to examine our allegiance and readiness for challenges. Related Bible Verses Matthew 7:24 - The parable of the wise and foolish buildersDeuteronomy 32:1 - Moses' speech warning IsraelProverbs 1:20 - The voice of Lady WisdomIsaiah 8:7 - Assyria as a floodMatthew 24:37 - Yeshua's warning of the coming flood1 Corinthians 3:11 - Yeshua as the foundation Recommended Resources The Sermon on the Mount and Human Flourishing by Jonathan T. PenningtonThe Divine Conspiracy by Dallas WillardSimply Jesus by N.T. Wright For more Bible Teachings, click here. Note: This article contains affiliate links. ; "```html|\n|```"; ""))
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    32 mins
  • Sermon on the Mount - Workers of Lawlessness

    Sermon on the Mount - Workers of Lawlessness
    May 25 2025
    trim(replace(Sermon on the Mount - Workers of Lawlessness In a powerful sermon delivered by Matthew Vander Els at Founded in Truth Fellowship, the focus was on one of the most sobering warnings in the Sermon on the Mount. This section of the scripture, found in Matthew 7, challenges us to not only examine our spiritual activities but to align ourselves with the true kingdom of God. Vander Els emphasizes the importance of our hearts being in alignment with the teachings of Yeshua, especially the distinction between spiritual activity and spiritual alignment. The sermon ultimately calls us to a deeper relationship with God rather than just a superficial portrayal of righteousness. Understanding the Two Paths The Sermon on the Mount presents us with a choice between two paths: the way of the kingdom or the way of empire. Matthew Vander Els explains that the kingdom path is one of justice, mercy, and peace, while the path of empire is about power, performance, and self-righteousness. This dichotomy is essential to understanding Yeshua's teachings as they call for a transformation of our desires and motivations, moving beyond surface-level changes to a deep reshaping of our lives. The Warning of Spiritual Maturity Yeshua's words in Matthew 7:21-23 serve as a warning to those who might mistake spiritual energy for spiritual maturity. Vander Els points out that gifts and charismatic displays do not equate to spiritual fruit. Instead, spiritual maturity is reflected in a life oriented by humility, surrender, and mercy. The sermon urges us to evaluate the fruit our lives produce, emphasizing that genuine spiritual growth cannot be faked or manufactured. Reflect on whether your spiritual activities align with the teachings of Yeshua.Assess if your life is producing genuine spiritual fruit.Strive for a deep, transformative relationship with God rather than mere spiritual performances. The Danger of Empire Vander Els delves into the concept of empire, using historical examples to illustrate how the worldly systems stand in opposition to God's kingdom. He describes empire as a machinery of domination and control, contrasting it with the kingdom of God, which is built on compassion, humility, and generosity. This section of the sermon calls for a critical examination of how we might unwittingly serve the empire while believing we are advancing God's kingdom. Consider how worldly values might influence your spiritual journey.Recognize the ways in which empire can masquerade as righteousness.Commit to embodying the kingdom values of humility and mercy. Intimacy with God At the heart of the sermon is the call to be known by God rather than merely knowing about God. Vander Els emphasizes that spiritual activities are not enough if they do not stem from an intimate relationship with the Father. Using the term "genosko," which denotes a deep, relational knowledge, the sermon underscores the significance of being genuinely known by God and aligning our lives with His will. Conclusion: Choose the Path of Life The sermon closes with a powerful reminder that we have a choice in how we live our lives. The narrow path, although more challenging, leads to life and a deeper relationship with God. Vander Els encourages the congregation to persevere in building the kingdom of God and to ensure their actions align with kingdom values. He calls for a reevaluation of our spiritual journey, urging us to be faithful ambassadors of God's kingdom. Evaluate which path you are currently on: the narrow path of life or the wide path of empire.Focus on building relationships and community that reflect God's love and mercy.Remember that the kingdom of God grows in unexpected and humble ways. Ultimately, the sermon serves as a call to action, inviting us to align our lives with the true teachings of Yeshua and to be known by God through genuine, transformative relationships. Bible Verses Matthew 7:21-23Matthew 23Hebrews 1:3 Recommended Resources The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas WillardSimply Christian by N.T. WrightThe Bible Project by Tim MackieBearing God's Name by Carmen Imes For more Bible Teachings, click here. Note: This article contains affiliate links. ; "```html|\n|```"; ""))
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    44 mins
  • Sermon on the Mount - False Prophets

    Sermon on the Mount - False Prophets
    May 18 2025
    trim(replace(Sermon on the Mount - False Prophets Understanding False Prophets and the Idolatry of Control During this Founded in Truth Fellowship teaching, the focus is on identifying and understanding false prophets, as outlined by Yeshua in his sermon on the mount. The speaker, potentially Matthew Vander Els, links this to modern-day situations where control and fear manipulate our actions, often leading us away from the kingdom of God. One of the critical issues discussed is the human tendency to grab onto control in response to fear. This need for control can lead to destructive behaviors in relationships and communities, driven by an inner fear that prompts us to hold onto power at any cost. We are challenged to recognize these tendencies within ourselves and to release them to God instead. The Challenge of Discernment The teaching goes into the difficulty of discerning true intentions, particularly in the context of spiritual leadership. False prophets are not always obvious and can often appear as insiders—those who outwardly seem to belong to the community but inwardly have ulterior motives. The text challenges believers to consider whether their actions and hearts align with Yeshua's kingdom values. Yeshua's words about the narrow and broad paths are revisited, emphasizing that the narrow path is difficult, unpopular, and challenging, yet leads to life. This path requires followers to live by the kingdom's counter-cultural values, prioritizing mercy, love, and justice over power and control. The Historical and Biblical Context The teaching surveys biblical history to illustrate the tension between true and false voices throughout Israel's narrative. The prophets frequently warned against corrupt leadership in Israel, likening them to wolves in sheep's clothing—vicious predators disguised as caretakers. The biblical story underscores that this is not only a theological issue but a prevalent human problem. Key biblical passages include Yeshua's warning in Matthew 7:15-20 about recognizing false prophets by their fruits, drawing a parallel with practices of religious leaders who appeared righteous but exploited their people. The connection is made between the prophets' critiques of Israel and the teachings of Yeshua, both of which emphasize ethical conduct over mere ritual adherence. False Prophets Then and Now Yeshua's metaphor of wolves in sheep's clothing is examined, revealing that false prophets won't always be identifiable by outward appearances. Wolves are known for their cunning and ability to disguise themselves within the flock, posing a substantial threat from within. This metaphor remains relevant today, warning believers of those who exploit faith for personal gain while sidestepping kingdom ethics. The imagery of trees and their fruits is used to illustrate that true intentions are revealed through actions over time. A good tree bears good fruit, while a bad tree cannot. This analogy serves as a criterion for discerning the authenticity of spiritual leaders and their alignment with God's kingdom. The Trap of Control Special emphasis is placed on how fear and past traumas can lead individuals to seek control over their environments, relationships, and even their interpretation of divine guidance. This need for control can often masquerade as religious zeal, leading individuals to justify manipulation or harsh actions in the name of faith. The speaker warns against conflating one's inner monologue with the voice of the Holy Spirit when past wounds influence perceptions and decisions. Such conflation turns personal biases into perceived divine mandates, risking harm to oneself and others. Application and Self-Reflection To counter these tendencies, believers are encouraged to embrace a lifestyle of humility, justice, and mercy—hallmarks of the narrow path. The sermon calls for introspection in moments of emotional upheaval, urging individuals to pause, reflect, and seek divine guidance before acting. This practice can prevent actions driven by fear or control from taking root. Examine your motives: Are they aligned with God's kingdom ethics or driven by fear?Beware of the subtle ways fear can influence actions and decisions.Develop discernment to recognize true and false prophets by their fruits.Practice humility and justice as foundational values in all interactions.Regularly pause for reflection and seek divine guidance in challenging situations. Conclusion The message concludes with a challenge to embody the values of Yeshua by walking the narrow path, resisting the urge to control, and bearing fruit that reflects the kingdom of God. It invites believers to confront personal fears and past traumas, ensuring they do not subtly guide actions in ways contrary to Yeshua's teachings. The overarching point of the message is a call to vigilance, both in identifying wolves in our midst and in recognizing the potential for such tendencies within ourselves. By aligning with the true ...
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    50 mins
  • Sermon on the Mount - The Narrow Gate

    Sermon on the Mount - The Narrow Gate
    May 11 2025
    trim(replace(Sermon on the Mount - The Narrow Gate Exploring the Sermon on the Mount Shabbat Shalom! As we conclude our journey through the Sermon on the Mount, we are reminded of its profound significance as the manifesto of the kingdom of God, as preached by Yeshua. This series has been a deep exploration into what it truly means to follow Him, challenging us to invert our worldly perspectives. The teachings of Yeshua push us to reconsider our actions, question our loyalties, and evaluate where our true commitments lie. A pivotal point in Yeshua's sermon is Matthew 7:13, where he says, "Enter through the narrow gate, for the gate is wide and the road is easy that leads to destruction, and many enter through it." The Symbolism of Gates Gates have historically symbolized power, security, and identity. In ancient times, gates were not just doors but represented larger ideas. They were places where judgments were made and where cities showcased their dominance. The wide gates of cities like Rome epitomized imperial power, exemplified through structures like the Arch of Titus. These gates celebrated military victories and were adorned with reliefs depicting battles and deities. Such symbols stood as constant reminders of the empire's strength, a stark contrast to Yeshua's call to enter through the narrow gate. The Broad and Narrow Gates Yeshua's message contrasts the broad and narrow gates. The broad road is likened to the world and its empires, promising ease and acceptance but ultimately leading to ruin. It's a path that accommodates crowds, appealing to comfort and conformity. On the other hand, the narrow gate symbolizes a life of intentionality and commitment to the kingdom values Yeshua preached. It is a solitary path, challenging but leading to life. Historical Context and Yeshua's Radical Call Matthew Vander Els connects ancient historical examples to illustrate the broader implications of Yeshua's teachings. Rome's grand arches, such as those built by Titus and Constantine, celebrated military conquests and imperial power. The Arch of Constantine, for example, marked a turning point when Christianity became entwined with Roman imperialism. Despite Constantine's supposed vision, the arch displays pagan symbols, highlighting the tension between true allegiance to Yeshua and conformity to worldly power. Choosing the Narrow Gate in Today's World Yeshua's imagery of the narrow gate is deeply rooted in the Hebrew Bible, where life is depicted as a journey full of choices. The dual paths recall the Garden of Eden, Cain's decision, Noah's Ark, and Passover, each representing a spiritual threshold. These narratives illustrate that true allegiance requires deliberate choices, aligning with God's kingdom rather than the world's systems. Real-World Applications and Challenges The call to walk through the narrow gate continues today, challenging us to live counterculturally. This means choosing love over hatred, forgiveness over retaliation, and humility over pride. It involves the practical application of Yeshua's teachings, such as loving our enemies, practicing radical generosity, and standing for justice. These actions require a heart commitment, not just external adherence to religious norms. Love Your Enemies: Actively pray for those who oppose you, transforming enmity into compassion.Forgive Authentically: Choose forgiveness when retaliation feels justified, releasing bitterness and offering mercy.Practice Generosity: Share resources and prioritize community, rejecting consumerism's false promises of happiness.Embrace Humility: Lay down the need for control and recognition, standing for justice without self-interest.Engage with Empathy: Approach others with understanding, even when cultural differences arise. Sophie's Example and the Cost of the Narrow Path Sophie Scholl, a young woman in Nazi Germany, serves as an inspiration for choosing the narrow path. Her courage to distribute pamphlets against the Nazi regime, at great personal cost, exemplifies the sacrificial nature of following Yeshua. Her story challenges us to consider the broad roads that tempt us today and to choose the narrow path even when it is costly. Conclusion: A Call to Allegiance Yeshua's teachings invite us to make intentional choices that reflect true allegiance to His kingdom. It's a call to live out our faith not just in words but through our daily actions and decisions. As we face our own gates and thresholds, may we choose the path that aligns with the values of love, justice, and humility that define the kingdom of God. For more Bible Teachings, click here. Referenced Bible Verses Matthew 7:13Joshua 4Genesis 3:24Psalm 1Deuteronomy 30:19 Recommended Resources Simply Jesus by N.T. WrightThe Divine Conspiracy by Dallas WillardThe Bible Project by Tim Mackie Note: This article contains affiliate links. ; "```html|\n|```"; ""))
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    53 mins