HOLY TO YAHVEH COMPANION WORKBOOK LESSONS 1-14

HOLY TO YAHVEH

COMPANION WORKBOOK

A MANUEL FOR TRUE DISCIPLESHIP

AND A HOLY PRIESTHOOD

By

Terrye Goldblum Seedman

Introduction  & How to Use Study Guide                                Pages 1-4

Lesson 1 Study of Chapters 1-3                                                        Pages 5-14

The Significance of Yahveh’s Name

Lesson 2 Study of Chapters 4-5                                                        Pages 15-21

Yahveh Plan for a Holy Place

Lesson 3 Study of Chapters 6-9                                                        Pages 22-29

A Holy Temple – Jews and Gentiles Together

Lesson 4 Study of Chapters 10-12                                                    Pages 30-36

The Ancient Serpent Trail Begins

Lesson 5  Study of Chapters 13-15                                                   Pages 37-43

Anti-Semitism Fanned into Flames

Lesson 6  Study of Chapters 16-19                                                   Pages 44-55

The Saul Generation

Lesson 7 Study of Chapters 20-22                                                    Pages 66-70

The David Generation

Lesson 8 Study of Chapters 23-25                                                    Pages 71-79

To Enter the Most Holy Place

Lesson 9 Study for Chapters 26-27                                                 Pages 80-89

A Righteous Remnant for a Righteous Kingdom

Lesson 10 Study for Chapters 29-31                                               Pages 90-99

“Give Him the Name YAHshua”

Lesson 11 Study for Chapters 32-36                                               Pages 100-109

YAHveh and YAHshua are One

Lesson 12 Study for Chapters 37-39                                               Pages 110-133

He Will Vindicate His Name

Lesson 13 Supplementary Prophetic Teaching                     Pages 134-147

Lesson 14 Study for Chapter 40                                                      Pages 148-158

Across the Threshold

“The secret things belong unto YAHveh our God:

but those things which are revealed

 belong unto us and to our children for ever...”

Deuteronomy 29:29 KJV

“Whoever is wise, let him understand these things;

Whoever is discerning, let him know them. 

For the ways of YAHveh are right,

And the righteous will walk in them,

But transgressors will stumble in them.”

Hosea 14:9

Blessings, Welcome, and Shalom my precious brothers and sisters,

You are embarking on a very special spiritual journey on the ancient paths of uncompromised biblical truths. Many vital aspects of the holy Hebrew roots of the Scripture that have been hidden and obscured will be unsealed, opened, and magnified to your understanding.  YAHshua desires to lead you onto His Highway of Holiness (Isa 35:8), spiritually transforming your life through a deeper intimacy with Him and YAHveh His Father, the Mighty One of Israel.

Messiah has always desired true disciples who would count the cost.  He is asking you, are you willing to leave the familiar worldly and religious arenas to follow Him on a narrow, holy, and glorious path?  He is calling you to leave the banks of the river, and to enter into His river of life where His very Presence will envelop you in His life changing glory.

As you initially begin this study and enter this river of life, the waters will be ankle high.  As you continue on in the lessons, the teachings will become deeper and deeper.  You will go from knee high to waist high until the waters are so deep you will want to release all worldly and religious baggage to completely immerse yourself in this glorious river flowing from YAHveh’s throne room.  (Eze 47:3-5 Rev 22:1)

Come on in, the water is divine!

How to Use Holy to YAHveh’s Companion Workbook

A Manuel for True Discipleship and a Holy Priesthood

            This workbook has been designed both to help clarify the Biblical principles developed in Holy to YAHveh and to encourage personal application of these truths.  It is also a very valuable tool in the establishing of group studies where His Holy Spirit will unite the members closer to Him and one another on His holy foundation of Old and New  Testament uncompromised truths.  The original disciples gathered together in YAHshua’s name.  The group studies will be a Regathering in YAHshua’s Name on pure scriptural truths as in days of old.  The size of your group is not important for YAHshua said, “...where two or three are gathered together in My name, there I am in the midst of them.” (Mt 18:20)

            Before beginning each lesson of the workbook it is advisable to carefully read the corresponding chapters in Holy to YAHveh.  The text magnifies and expounds many of the scripture references you will be studying in each lesson.

            Whether you are studying on your own or in a group, you will need your own copy of this workbook, a copy of the book Holy to YAHveh, your Bible, notebook for lengthy answers, and a pen or pencil.  You may also want to use your notebook to record your thoughts, prayers, and notes from the group discussion as you journey through this study.

            If you are using this study in a group setting, each member should complete the week’s lesson including the group discussion questions prior to the weekly gathering.  Having your questions already prepared will ensure that each member is a vital participant who will contribute sound input for the edification of the entire group.  The discussion leader is to guide the group session with the Group Questions to keep it on track.

            Hopefully you will be going through this study with at least one other person, although it is not a prerequisite.  In either case your will receive the fullest measure by completing the Group Questions as part of your weekly commitment.

            You may find that a Group Discussion Session will require two weeks for your group to complete.  In these cases it is recommended each participant review their questions and reread the corresponding chapters in preparation for an overflow in the spirit.  In that way each will contribute to the continuation and completion of the lesson’s Group Study.

            It is recommended that you keep your group small, not more than ten to twelve participants.  In doing so, those attending will have time to share what they have learned from their individual study of the lesson and ask questions about biblical concepts that may be challenging to their traditional way of thinking and believing.

            To ensure the greatest blessing, it is essential that you begin and end your personal daily study and group session in humble prayer.  Spiritual truth is revealed by the Holy Spirit, we must welcome His presence and seek Him for guidance and revelation.

            The goal of this study is to draw you into a deeper intimacy with YAHveh the Father and YAHshua the Son.  The purpose of the group sessions, a Regathering in YAHshua’s Name, is to jointly fit together holy living stones on the scriptually pure Hebrew foundation of their faith.. Messiah has redeemed us to be a temple composed of such living stones, forming a holy temple in which His Father’s glorious life changing presence dwells.   May you grow closer to one another as a holy fellowship, each member recognizing his or her unique gifts and ministries within the body of YAHshua and functioning in unity with the other members.  May YAHveh bless your study of His Word!

A Preliminary Explanation

The use of the Holy Names YAHveh and YAHshua

YAHveh (YHVH) is the original memorial-name of the eternal living God.  Traditional biblical scholarship acknowledges this.

            The title, LORD, used in most translations of the Bible is the accepted substitute for the original Old Testament name, pronounced “YAHveh.”  This Hebrew word is commonly known as the Tetragrammaton, a word derived from the Greek which means “four letters.”

            In the New Testament, the name, YAHveh has been substituted with the titles, Lord and God.  These are translated from the Greek words KURIOS, “Lord,” and theos, “God.”

            With permission from the Lockman Foundation, the author has restored the memorial-name YAHveh, to its original place within passages quoted in this book from the Old Testament, the New American Standard Bible (NASB).  In the New Testament verses where YAHveh’s name replaces the title “God” or “the Lord,” this is the author’s best approximation.  This issue has been obscured due to the Greek translations neglecting the importance and use of the divine names.

            It is the author’s humble intent to reveal, exalt, and restore the original and sacred names of YAHveh and YAHshua to their rightful place of preeminence within the holy Scriptures and the hearts of a holy remnant.

            The vital issue regarding the use of the divine names hopefully will be clarified throughout Holy to YAHveh and it’s accompanying workbook.

Dedication

Dedicated to YAHveh, the Almighty,

whose sovereign desire is to have a holy priesthood

who will bring Him offerings in righteousness

as in days of old.

And to YAHshua Messiah who poured out His atoning blood

to redeem and consecrate a remnant

to be Holy to YAHveh.

Holy to YAHveh and this companion workbook are dedicated to you,

the called out and chosen remnant.

The Spirit of Truth has blessed you with a hunger and a thirst,

drawing you to YAHveh’s banqueting table

where you will partake with Him of the riches of His glory.

LESSON 1

The Significance of YAHveh’s Memorial-Name

(Study Guide for chapters 1-3 Holy to YAHveh)

1.   During the days in which the events of the Bible took place and the holy Scriptures were written, the meaning of a name carried far greater significance than it does today. In today’s culture, a baby’s name is often chosen simply because it’s cute or popular.  The greatest significance a name might have would be when it is a traditional family name or the name of a dear friend or relative.

      In contrast, names in Scripture often carry profound cultural or spiritual meanings.  A person’s name might indicate his or her position or profession.  It might tell something of the circumstances of his or her birth.  It might also express the hopes of the child’s parents – or even the prophetic call of God upon that child’s life.

      In addition, in Bible times the name of a person and that person’s character were often considered inseparable.  According to The New International Dictionary of the Bible, “In the Scriptures there is the closest possible relationship between a person and his name, the two being practically equivalent, so that to remove the name was to extinguish the person”[1] .

      Just as the names of people in the Bible are significant, so is the name of God.  Throughout Scripture in numerous passages and examples, the LORD God continually emphasizes the importance of His own name by encouraging both the use of His name and an understanding of the inextricable link between His name and His character. 

      The following Scripture passages deal with the sacred memorial-name of God from His immutable perspective.  Look up each passage in your Bible and write down your impressions regarding the name of God and its significance.  (Note:  You will reap the greatest benefits from this study if you take detailed notes on each Scripture passage!)

a.   Exodus 3:13-15

b.  Exodus 34:14

c.  Isaiah 42:8

d.  Exodus 20:24

e.  Joel 2:32

f.  Ezekiel 39:7

2.   Proverbs 30:4 asks a critical question that is foundational to this study of YAHveh’s holy name.  Look up this verse and write out the questions it asks.  Underline the part of the verse that is relevant to this study.

3.   Read chapter 1 of Holy to YAHveh. 

a.   As you read, write below any truths from this chapter that are especially meaningful to you at this time.

b.  Write out Isaiah 35:8

4.   Now read chapter 2.  In this chapter, you’ll learn many of the names of God that have been used throughout Jewish and Christian history.  Use the space below to record what the text teaches about each of these names.  Whenever possible, make note of the origin of the name, what it means, why and by whom it was used, and what makes it an acceptable/unacceptable name for the Most High God.

a.   god or God

b.   lord, Lord, or Lord

c.   Elohim (this original and biblically pure Hebrew title, for the Mighty One of Israel, is seen through out the Scripture.   It has commonly been replaced with the generic title God coming from the Greek word theos.)

d.   YHVH or YHWH (the Tetragrammaton)

e.   YAHveh or YAHweh

f.    Adonai or Kurios

g.   Jehovah (incorporate what you have learned regarding the letter J)

h.   I AM or HaYAH

5.   When you read chapter 2, you also learned about various names for YAHveh’s Son.  Take a moment to review the portion of chapter 2 that deals with this subject.  Then record below the pertinent facts about each of His names.

a.   Jesus or Iesous

b.   YAHshua (pronounced Ya’ shoo-ah)

6.   Given that the letter J and its sound did not exist until shortly before the printing of the King James Version of the Scripture let’s return to the foundational question put forth in Proverbs 30:4:  “Who has ascended into heaven and descended?...Who has established all the ends of the earth?  What is His name or His son’s name?  Surely you know!”  Based on your study thus far, what is His proper name – the name He ordained for Himself long ago? What is His Son’s name?  Write these names below.

7.  As clarified in the text on page 27:  “The name of the Mighty One of Israel has been buried in obscurity by tradition.”  Summarize the origins of this tradition from:

a.  Ancient Jewish leaders

b.  Gentile church leaders and Bible translators

8.   From this point forward in this study, we will be using God’s memorial-name of YAHveh and His son’s correct Hebrew name of YAHshua in place of the more familiar “God” and “Jesus.”  This may seem awkward to you at first.  However, as you will see in chapter 3, YAHveh desires a closeness and an intimacy with you that surpasses the “acquaintance level” of relationship.  Would you call your spouse, your best friend, your brother, or your sister “Madam,” “Mister,” Sir,” “Lord,” or “Master”?  Probably not!  These titles would create a distance between you and that loved one.  So it is between you and YAHveh when you fail to address Him by His chosen name.  He longs to draw you so close that even His heartbeat is audible to you.

      Before continuing in study, take a moment to practice hallowing or worshipping the name of YAHveh.  Because the psalmists were always excellent at this, first read Psalm 113 aloud and substitute the name “YAHveh” for “the Lord.”  After you’ve done this for practice, use the space below to write your own brief psalm of praise to YAHveh.  Be sure to use His most intimate and personal name!

9.   Chapter 3 of Holy to YAHveh begins with an important question:  How much intimacy do you desire to have with your Creator?  Take a moment to honestly evaluate this question and then write out your answer below.

10. Now read chapter 3 of Holy to YAHveh.  As you read, write below the three concepts or Scriptures that are most meaningful or convicting to you at this time.

            1)

            2)

            3)

11.       Read Ezekiel 47:1-12.  Briefly summarize what it means and how it applies to    you as you are being called into a deeper walk and greater intimacy with YAHveh             your God and YAHshua your savior.  As helpful hints note these key points:

a.         The waters from this river of life are coming out from under threshold of the       temple, from the throne of YAHveh and the Lamb see also Revelation 22:1.

b.         Notice everything was either facing or flowing eastward which is symbolic of Zion, and YAHveh’s sovereign purposes for Israel.

c.         As this river of life flowed into the eastern region it caused the waters to become fresh.  Filled with renewing power, the power to bring true revival.  Swarms of living creatures - fish of many kinds will live wherever the river flows.  Fish are symbolic of people from every nation.  This river of life when flowing through our hearts imbibed with YAHveh’s full council and purposes for Israel will bring life to everyone it touches.

d.         The swamps and marshlands are symbolic of empty forms of religion where YAHveh’s abiding presence and full council enriched with the holy Hebrew root are blocked by mens religious agendas and doctrines.  Wherever this river of life is blocked stagnate waters naturally develop.  No one can abundantly thrive in such spiritual swamplands

12. Throughout chapter 3, the text emphasizes that although the memorial-name of YAHveh has been neglected and unused for many generations, the time has come for His people to return to the pure worship of YAHveh and the use of His original and sacred memorial-name.  Psalm 102:12-22 is printed for you below.  Please read this passage carefully.  As you read, underline the word “name” wherever it appears.  Draw a box around the words “time” and “appointed time.”  Circle the words “generation(s),” “people,” and “men.”  Then answer the questions that follow.

            But Thou, O YAHveh, dost abide forever; And Thy name to all generations.  Thou wilt arise and have compassion on Zion; For it is time to be gracious to her, For the appointed time has come.  Surely Thy servants find pleasure in her stones, And feel pity for her dust.  So the nations will fear the name of YAHveh, And all the kings of the earth Thy glory.  For YAHveh has built up Zion; He has appeared in His glory.  He has regarded the prayer of the destitute, And has not despised their prayer.  This will be written for the generation to come; That a people yet to be created may praise YAHveh.  For He looked down from His holy height; From heaven YAHveh gazed upon the earth, To hear the groaning of the prisoner; To set free those who were doomed to death; That men may tell of the name of YAHveh in Zion, And His praise in Jerusalem; When the peoples are gathered together, And the kingdoms, to serve YAHveh.

a.   What does this passage teach you about the name of YAHveh?

b.   What do you learn about the “appointed time” referred to in these verses?

c.   As the text states in chapter 3, now may very well be the “appointed time” spoken of in this passage since even now the Jewish people from the four corners of the earth are being gathered back to their homeland, Israel (referred to as “Zion” in Psalm 102 and other Bible passages).  If indeed “the appointed time has come,” then who is the “generation” that is mentioned in this psalm?  Write your answer below.  If you’re unsure of your answer, reread the section of chapter 3 that deals with this subject.

d.   Now read Psalm 102:12-22 again.  What do you learn about this generation?  What are we to be doing?

13. As you have seen in the first three chapters of Holy to YAHveh and in the Scriptures you have studied, those who desire deeper intimacy with the Most High have the great responsibility and privilege to obey Him with regard to the use of His memorial-name. The following is only a partial list of the admonitions we have seen thus far:

                                    We must know His name

                                    We must remember His name.

                                    We must honor His name.

                                    We must call on His name.

                                    We must refrain from profaning His name.

                                    We must praise His name.

                                    We must tell of His name.

                                    We must glorify His name.

                                    We must sing praises to His name.

       Now that you know His name, how can you be obedient to the other admonitions regarding the name YAHveh in the following areas of your life?  Be specific in your answers.

a.   in your prayer life?

b.   in your family?

c.   in your church?

d.   in your personal sphere of influence?

14. Whether or not you choose personally to exalt the name of YAHveh, Scripture teaches that His name will be reverenced and honored throughout the earth!  Look up the following prophetic passages and write out what will one day happen with regard to His holy name.  (When you read from your own Bible, don’t forget what you learned in chapter 2 – that the Bible translators substituted YAHveh’s memorial-name with the more common title “Lord.”)

a.   Malachi 1:11

b.   Zephaniah 3:9

c.   Zechariah 14:9

Questions for Group Discussion

1.   Based on what you’ve read and studied thus far, how significant is the name of YAHveh?  How important to YAHveh is the proper use of His name?  What Scriptures emphasized this point?

2.   Of the many “so called” names and titles of God described in Holy to YAHveh, which is the true memorial-name of God?  Why is this name believed to be His proper, chosen name?

3.   Discuss the difference between calling a person by a title and calling them by a given name (for example, you might address a man as “Doctor” or by his first name, “John”).  How does addressing God by a title such as “Lord” or “Master” differ from addressing Him by His proper name, YAHveh?

4.   Discuss the difference between calling Him by a generic term such as “God” rather than His personal name, YAHveh.  Which is preferable?  For what reasons?

5.         Through the years, the name YAHveh has become obscured so that today it is   rarely used by anyone, Jewish or Christian.  According to the text how did the     following contribute to the loss of YAHveh’s memorial-name?

a.     the commandment not to take the name of the Lord in vain

b.     Scribal errors

c.     Jewish tradition and legalism

d.     Gentile Bible translators

6.   Read aloud Exodus 3:13-15, substituting the name “YAHveh” for “the Lord.”  Based on this passage, for what period of time was His memorial-name to have been used by His people?  Did He intend for His name to be forgotten or obscured?

7.   How important is intimacy with God in your own life?  Would you describe the place God holds in your life as a religion or a relationship?

8.   According to the text on page 40, “The EliYAHu spirit is beckoning a holy remnant to wholeheartedly embrace YAHveh and stop wavering between religion and righteousness.”  What impact does this truth have on your spiritual life?

9.   Based on your study of Psalm 102, what is the “appointed time” and why might it be the time in which we’re living now?

10. According to the psalm, what is the generation of people living at the “appointed time” to be doing?

11. What admonitions regarding the use of the memorial-name YAHveh have you seen thus far?  In what Scriptures have you seen them?

12. Discuss some practical ways in which you can obey these admonitions and experience the blessings of YAHveh described in Exodus 20:24b “... in every place where I cause My name to be remembered, I will come to you and bless you.”  Be specific in your discussion.

      In your closing prayer ask YAHveh to remove the familiar tradition and any confusion regarding His name.  Thank Him for revealing His name and petition Him to write it on the walls of your heart that it would begin to flow naturally by His Spirit through your lips.

 LESSON 2

YAHveh's Plan for a Holy People

(Study Guide for chapters 4-5 Holy to YAHveh)

1.         To a good builder, there is probably no more valuable a tool than a plumb line -- a simple cord with a stone or a metal weight attached to one end.  By dangling his plumb line next to the frame of a wall, a door, or a window, the builder can determine whether the surface is straight – perpendicular to the foundation and floor.  Without the use of a plumb line, the builder's work is likely to be crooked and faulty.  That's why a good carpenter always keeps his plumb line close at hand.

Why all this talk of plumb lines in a study concerning how to be Holy to YAHveh?  Because the authors of Scripture frequently employed the image of a plumb line to illustrate YAHveh's means of testing the righteousness and obedience of His people.  (See Isaiah 28:17 NIV and Amos 7:7-9 for examples of this.)  YAHveh's plumb line is His Word of truth – the Bible.  He measures our actions and intents by comparing them with His instructions as contained in Scripture.  If our lives are "plumb" with His Word, then YAHveh is pleased.  But if our lives and our doctrines have veered away from the Bible's holy standard – even ever so slightly – then we are in error and in need of correction.

a.         The Scriptures you studied in last week's lesson already served as a plumb line by revealing the way in which people throughout the centuries have strayed from YAHveh's commands with regard to His name.  In the space below, write the name that the Almighty ordained for Himself long ago, as well as His Son's true name.

b.         By way of review, briefly describe what has happened to these names throughout Jewish and Christian history.

c.         How has YAHveh's Word worked as a plumb line in your own life regarding this truth?  How have the Scriptures you've studied thus far served to challenge and correct your thinking with regard to His most holy name?

d.         Do you desire to be part of a remnant who “will be glad when they see the plumb line” as revealed and magnified through YAHveh’s word?

2.         Now read chapter 4 of Holy to YAHveh.  Use the space below to record any truths from the chapter that you find especially meaningful.  Take note of Psalm 127:1 and Zechariah 4:6.

3.         From Genesis to Revelation, the holy Scripture is full of vivid descriptions of various building programs and agendas that were instituted by YAHveh.  Have you ever noticed as you've read your Bible that the people of YAHveh always seemed to be building something, whether it was a tabernacle in the wilderness, a temple in Jerusalem, or the New Testament church – YAHveh's eternal "temple" made of "living stones"?

A Timeline of YAHveh’s Building Programs

Old Testament History                                                                                                        New Testament History

 Wilderness tabernacle     Solomon’s             Temple is          Temple rebuilt by                  Temple renovation          “Herod’s  temple”   YAHveh’s

 is built (Exod. 35-40)     temple is               destroyed by       returning exiles under            under Herod the              is destroyed             spiritual temple

     built (1 Kings 6-   Babylon            Zerubbabel’s leadership        Great is begun                  by the Roman         (the church) is

                                          9; 2 Chron. 3-7)    (2 Kings 25)          (Ezra, Hag., Zech.)                                                         Army                       built (Eph. 2)

            4.         When YAHveh institutes a building program, He requires:

            a.         That the building be constructed exactly according to His plans and instructions.

            b.         That those carrying out His plans be careful to do all that He commands and to observe all His decrees.

c.         That the execution of His building agenda take priority over every other personal or religious  agenda.

In chapter 4 of Holy to YAHveh, it is the latter temple with which the text is primarily concerned. On page 45 it states:

The Master Architect has a divine blueprint for His eternal temple.  An unfathomable high price was paid to procure the building materials.  His death and atoning blood purchased stones, living stones – Jews and Gentiles – built on the foundation of the Hebrew apostles and prophets with the Jewish Messiah Himself, as the Chief Cornerstone "...in whom the whole building, being fitted together is growing into a holy temple in YAHveh...into a dwelling of YAHveh in the Spirit" (Eph 2:21-22).

5.         To better understand YAHveh's plans and purposes in building His eternal temple in the             hearts of Jewish and Gentile believers, let us examine the reconstruction of the temple            under the leadership of Zerubbabel.

            After 70 long years a remnant of YAHveh’s people were permitted to return to their land and rebuild their beloved temple.  Although the returning exiles began rebuilding the temple with great zeal, they soon grew weary and discouraged.  Eventually they neglected the task completely, giving attention instead to building of their own homes and attending to their personal affairs.

a.         At this time, the prophet Haggai brought the word of YAHveh to the people of Judah.  Study Haggai 1:1-11.  Record below what the Almighty said concerning the level of priority the remnant had placed on rebuilding His house.  How did YAHveh rebuke them?

b.         What general principal can you learn from this passage regarding the priority YAHveh demands we place on the building of His holy temple?  What consequences result for those who fail to give proper attention to His plans and purposes?

6.         As you learned in chapter 4, YAHveh is undertaking a building program in our generation, and it requires the full participation of His people.  This time the building is not a temple or tabernacle made with human hands, but something radically different.  Read Ephesians 2:19-22 and 1 Peter 2:4-5.  Then answer the following questions concerning YAHveh's current building agenda:

a.         Of what/of whom is this building to be composed?

b.         What/who is its cornerstone?

c.         Whose dwelling is it to be?

d.         To what type of building is it compared?

7.         As the text teaches on page 48 in chapter 4, the Almighty desires to have a temple composed of redeemed "living stones" (1 Peter 2:5) – Jews and Gentiles – built together on His correct foundation with straight walls.  It will be a holy and sound spiritual structure that will endure the coming storms.

As you have also read, the Spirit of YAHveh is now inspecting all that has been built in the name of religion.  With His plumb line of truth, He is detecting crooked, bulging walls that are not in line with His standards as expressed in Scripture.  As you continue this study, the plumb line of YAHveh’s truth may reveal many “crooked places” in which your life, your doctrine, and the doctrines of those around you have deviated from YAHveh’s holy standards.

Chapter 4 of Holy to YAHveh concludes with these questions:  “Which foundation do you want to be built on – the traditions of man OR YAHveh’s immutable truth?  Which house do you want to live in – the house built by men OR the eternal house built by YAHshua, the Master Carpenter?”  Write your answers below.

8.         In addition to the image of the plumb line, Scripture uses the concept of circumcision to illustrate YAHveh’s means of consecrating a people unto Himself.  Read chapter 5 of Holy to YAHveh.  As you read, use the space below to record at least six important points you learn about circumcision (both physical and spiritual).

            1.

            2.

            3.

            4.

            5.

            6.

9.         The purpose of this 14-lesson study is to circumcise the hearts of YAHveh’s people, so that they indeed will be Holy to YAHveh.  The text states on page 54:

How far modern Judaism and organizational Christianity have strayed from YAHveh’s original intentions.  So few are truly circumcised in heart!  Churches, synagogues, and other meeting places are filled and pews are warmed by untold numbers of lukewarm, professing believers who love their lives, this world, and their traditions far more than they know and love God.  A dedicated remnant, circumcised in heart and consecrated to His service, will joyfully renounce fleshly desires and flee this corrupt world system, including divisive, erroneous doctrines and unholy traditions.

            Circumcision is a painful but necessary process.  Take a moment to prayerfully consider your willingness to become circumcised in heart unto YAHveh.  Then write out a prayer of submission below, sharing your heart with YAHveh your God.  

Questions for Group Discussion

1.  What is a plumb line and why is it important to a builder?

2.  In Scripture, how is the image of a plumb line used?  Who is measuring what and by what standards?

3.  Review the major points of last week’s lesson concerning YAHveh’s memorial-name.  As you studied the Scriptures last week, how did they serve as a plumb line to reveal errors or faulty thinking in your life regarding this name?

4.  This week you studied YAHveh’s building program in our generation.  According to 1 Peter 2:4-5, what is YAHveh in the process of building?  What is it made of?  For what purpose is it being built?

5.  Read aloud Ephesians 2:19-22.  What new information do you learn about YAHveh’s building program?

6a.  According to your study, what was YAHveh’s building program as described in the book of Haggai?  Who was involved in this project?

b.  What was the attitude of the builders at first?  Then what happened?

c.  What did the prophet Haggai pronounce to the people at that time?  (See Haggai 1:1-11.)    What lessons can we apply today?

7.  Haggai warned YAHveh’s people that failure to build His temple would bring a drought.  In that day, the drought was physical; in our day, there is a growing spiritual drought.  How have you seen or experienced this drought in your own life?  In your church or synagogue?  In your city, town, or world?

8.  In chapter 4 the text states on page 46:

The Spirit of Truth is speaking to our generation, saying that while we have labored to build our churches, synagogues, religious programs, homes, and personal wealth, we have “neglected His holy house.  God’s plumb line, which He uses to evaluate the faulty foundations we have built, is revealing crooked places.”

If YAHveh were to examine your life, your ministry, or your church or synagogue, what “faulty foundations” might He find? How have you and other believers neglected His [spiritual] holy house?

9.  According to Ezekiel 13:14-15, what will happen to spiritual buildings with faulty foundations and spiritual houses with flimsy walls that are covered with whitewash?  How does this truth impact your life?

10.  The “flint knife of circumcision” is another of YAHveh’s tools to bring forth the obedience and consecration of His people.  According to the text, in the Old Testament what did physical circumcision signify?

11.  Circumcision of the flesh was given as a symbolic foreshadowing of a more vital circumcision:  circumcision of the heart.  Read Deuteronomy 30:6 aloud.  Explain circumcision of the heart and why it is vitally important.  A natural consequence of circumcision of the heart is explained in Deut 30:8.  Is this your heart’s desire?

12.  In light of the Exodus 4:24-26 account of Moses and Zipporah, how critical is physical circumcision (and, we must assume, spiritual circumcision) to YAHveh?

13.  According to the text on page 53:

Today many congregations are filled with spiritual offspring who sit under leaders who have neglected to circumcise the hearts of the people.  Many religious leaders have been preoccupied with fulfilling their divine call.  They have been like Moses who neglected to circumcise and consecrate his offspring to the Holy One of Israel.  They have not uncompromisingly brought the full counsel of the Word of God.  (emphasis added)

      In the various churches and denominations active today, have you seen this to be true?  How?

14.  YAHshua will enter into eternal fellowship only with those who are circumcised in heart.  Spiritual circumcision – a cutting away of that which is fleshly and worldly – is a painful procedure.  Yet Abraham, his family, and the people of Israel were willing to submit to the flint knife.  Are you?  Discuss your thoughts.

End in prayer, incorporating and personalizing that which has been revealed and discussed.

LESSON 3

A Holy Temple – Jews and Gentiles Together

(Study Guide for chapters 6-9 Holy to YAHveh)

1.         As we learned last week, the plumb line and the flint knife of circumcision are divine symbols.  They are helpful to us in that they clearly illustrate the methods by which YAHveh intends to bring forth His holy temple and a holy priesthood in these last days.  This week we will examine the master blueprints for YAHveh’s temple; it is exciting to note that these blueprints were drawn up even before the earth was made! 

You may be saying, “I’ve been in church all my life, and I know the plans and purposes of God.”  Do you?  In this week’s study, you will delve deeply into YAHveh’s eternal plan for the ages.  Since many of the scriptural precepts covered in this lesson have been neglected in the majority of today’s churches, some of these concepts may be new to you.  Let the Scriptures act as a plumb line to show you where any of the doctrines and religious beliefs you have learned deviate from the holy purposes of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  Then allow the flint knife of circumcision to cut away every belief you have held that is not biblically sound.

To begin, read chapter 6 of Holy to YAHveh.  Find at least three main points in this chapter and record them below.

            1.

            2.

            3.

2.         Let’s begin our study in Ephesians 2 and 3, chapters to which the  text refers as “foundational support beams for God’s holy temple.”  Read Ephesians 2:1-5 slowly, giving attention to all the details.  Bear in mind that this letter of Paul was written to a primarily Gentile audience.  As you read, make a list in the space below of every fact you learn about these Gentiles before and after their salvation.  Since these facts are also true of you, you may want to personalize your list (i.e., “I was dead in my trespasses and sins”).     

3a.       As Paul continues, he admonishes his Gentile audience to remember several things.  Read Eph 2:11-12 and write out everything that Gentile believers are to remember.

b.         Why do you think Paul insists that Gentiles remember these things?

4.         Before continuing your study, take a moment to recall the spiritual state of Gentiles before the message of salvation by faith in YAHshua the Messiah was given to them.  As the text stated in chapter 6, during the time of Jewish temple worship, there was a barrier – a dividing wall – permanently fixed between the outer and inner courts of the temple.  Gentiles were welcome to visit the outside court (the “Court of the Gentiles”), but they could not enter the exclusive inner courts where the people of Israel worshipped the living God.  In fact, stones on this dividing wall were inscribed with stern messages forbidding “unclean” Gentiles from entering on pain of death.  Thus any Gentile who chose to give up his devotion to pagan gods and serve YAHveh was required to worship Him from afar.

a.         Now read Ephesians 2:13-18.  In the space below, make a list of everything that happened to or was given to the Gentiles (“you who formerly were far off”) as a result of YAHshua’s sacrifice.

b.         Look closely at verses 15 and 16.  These verses clearly state the purpose and plan of YAHveh in these last days.  In fact, they are the heart of this study.  In the space below, write out God’s eternal purpose as expressed in these verses.

c.         Ephesians 3:4-6 restates this purpose by describing YAHveh’s plan as a mystery.  How do these verses parallel what you have already seen in 2:15-16?

5a.       Have you ever considered the fact that the Almighty’s plan and purpose was for His body – His holy temple – to be composed of both Jews and Gentiles?  Now take a moment to honestly evaluate what you have believed and been taught.

b.         How does what you see in corporate Christianity today compare with YAHveh’s original plan for Jews and Gentiles to become “one new man” through the sacrifice of Messiah?

6.         Have you ever heard the saying or teaching, “The Jews rejected Christ, therefore God is finished with Israel as a nation”?  From whom have you heard this teaching and in what settings?  Is this teaching biblically sound?

7.         Read chapter 7 of Holy to YAHveh.  As you read, continue to ask yourself, “Is God through with Israel?”  Be sure to make notes on the salient points of the chapter in the space below.

8.         Does YAHveh have an eternal plan for Israel, or has He turned His face from the Jewish people because they turned away from the Messiah?  Study the following Scriptures and record what you learn about the unique covenant relationship between Israel and YAHveh.  (Read the context surrounding each of these passages if you want to be sure that they are all speaking of Israel.)

a.         Genesis 17:7-8

b.         Jeremiah 31:3

c.         Jeremiah 31:35-37

d.         Isaiah 49:14-16

e.         Romans 11:25-27

f.          Romans 11:28-29

9.         In Romans 11, the apostle Paul addresses the question of whether the Almighty is finished with Israel because they rejected the Messiah – in fact, he hits the issue head on!  Read the following passages, and for each passage, record both the question and Paul’s answer.

a.         Romans 11:1-2a

b.         Romans 11:11

10.       Write down three key phrases that indicate Paul’s passionate love and commitment        to the salvation of his Jewish brethren.

a.         Ro 9:2-3

b.         Ro 10:1

c.         Ro 11:13-14

Note Paul’s words to all believers in 1 Co 11:1.  Be honest before the Almighty who searches men’s hearts.  Are you willing to prayerfully ask YAHveh to give you a similar heartbeat to Paul’s as magnified through the above Scriptures?

11.       As the text teaches in chapter 7, misunderstanding and neglect of Romans 11 (and other vital portions of Scripture) have led to a deceptive theology that has fostered distorted doctrines and unbiblical attitudes toward Israel.  Many Christians today believe that the church has replaced Israel in the heart of God, saying that the church is now “spiritual Israel.”  In other words, the unconditional, everlasting promises that YAHveh once made to true Israel are now null and void where Israel is concerned.  Instead, the church is now thought to be the recipient of the covenants and promises originally made to Israel.  Satan has been successful in deceiving 80% to 90% of Christians to believe this lie, giving rise to “replacement theology” which is unbiblical and must be purged out of the spiritual bloodstream of those who profess to be true believers.

Is this a doctrine your church teaches?  If so, open your heart to the Spirit of Truth and pay close attention to the following exercises.  Read Romans 11:11-29 very slowly and carefully.  Answer the following questions:

a.         Do you see any distinction made between “physical Israel” and “spiritual Israel” in this passage?  What two groups of people do you see mentioned in this passage?

b.         Which group of people is represented by the “broken off” branches?  Which group of people is represented by the “wild olive shoot”?

c.         What happened to the wild olive shoot?  What now nourishes and supports the wild olive shoot?  (See verse 17.)

d.         Why were the natural branches broken off?  Why were the wild olive shoots grafted in? (See verse 20.)

e.         “The fear of YAHveh is the beginning of wisdom.”  Paul has a very adamant warning to bring godly fear into the hearts of the Gentiles that they might not loose YAHveh’s blessings.  What are the Gentiles (the wild olive shoots) warned against in this passage? (See verses 18-25.)    Write out the brief but powerful warning.  This warning must become a motivating factor in our loving obedience to YAHveh’s mandate to bless the Jews. 

f.          Once again, is there any indication in this passage – the New Testament’s most clear teaching on the current condition of Israel – that the Bible is speaking of a “spiritual Israel”?  Or is this passage speaking of literal Israel (i.e., the Jewish people)?

g.         Paul warned the Gentiles not to be ignorant of a mystery so that they may not be conceited and be cut off more quickly than the Jewish branches.  What is this mystery?  Summarize Romans 11:25-32.  Please note the concept of YAHshua’s mercy and stress that in your answer.

12.       Please read chapter 8 of Holy to YAHveh.  In this chapter, the text’s analysis of Romans 11 continues; it deals with a contrast between the nourishing sap that originates from the Hebrew root of the olive tree and what I call “syntho-sap.”  As you read, please take detailed notes on what you learn regarding the nourishing “original sap” and “syntho-sap.”

            Original Sap                                       Syntho-Sap

13.       At this point in your study, are you able to identify any examples of “syntho-sap” in current church culture – perhaps even in your own church?  If so, list them below.

14.       Now read chapter 9 of Holy to YAHveh.  As you read this chapter, find at least five instructions to Gentile believers (also referred to as “engrafted branches” and “redeemed ‘wild olive branches’”).  List these below.

            1.

            2.

            3.

            4.

            5.

15.       Now analyze yourself in light of that list.  If you are a Gentile believer, are you carefully obeying all of the biblical mandates you’ve seen thus far concerning the Jews?  Please prayerfully consider your attitudes and actions toward the “branches that were broken off so that you might be grafted in.”  Consider your attitudes and actions toward the “holy Hebrew root” and its holy sap that is to be your spiritual nourishment and fortification.  Then write a paragraph below in response to what the Spirit reveals.

Questions for Group Discussion

1.    We learned last week that YAHveh is in the process of building a holy, living temple.  According to Ephesians 2:19-22 and 1 Peter 2:4-5, what is this building and of what is it to be composed?

2.    This week you studied Ephesians 3:6, which explains that two groups of people are meant to comprise this holy temple (also known as the body of Messiah).  What are these two groups?

3.    YAHveh’s plan was for Gentiles and Israel to be fellow members of one body and fellow partakers of the promise in Messiah YAHshua (Ephesians 3:6).  Is this sovereign plan of the Almighty evident in the make-up of the body of Messiah today?  Explain.

4.    Many today teach, “Since the Jews rejected Christ, God is finished with the nation of Israel.”  How did this week’s study either confirm or refute this teaching? 

5.    Discuss the following Bible passages and how they address the issue of the place Israel holds in YAHveh’s heart and eternal plan.

       a.  Genesis 17:7-8

       b.  Jeremiah 31:3

       c.  Jeremiah 31:35-37

       d.  Isaiah 49:14-16

       e.  Romans 11:25-27

       f.   Romans 11:28-29

6.    Open your Bibles to Romans 11.  In verses 1-2a, how does the apostle Paul handle the question of whether or not YAHveh is finished with Israel?

7.    What analogy does Paul give to describe what has happened to Israel?

8.    In this analogy, what group of people is represented by the “broken off” branches?  Why were these branches broken off?  (Be sure you consider all of the reasons Paul gives.)

9.    What group of people is represented by the “wild olive shoot”?  What happens to this group of people?  Why?

10.  According to the apostle Paul in chapter 9, the process of grafting a wild branch into a cultivated tree is “contrary to nature.”  Why is this?  What do you think YAHveh is saying through this truth?  What emotions do you think Gentile believers should feel, knowing that they have been “grafted in” in this manner?

11.  What attitudes are Gentile believers warned against in Romans 11?  Why?

12.  According to Paul’s analogy in Romans 11, from what should Gentile believers be receiving their nourishment?  What is to be their “holy root”?  Contrast this nourishment with “syntho-sap,” referring to chapter 8 if necessary.

13.  Name and discuss any examples of “syntho-sap” you see in the church today.

14.  In chapter 9 the text states, “It’s time for a redeemed, humble remnant to tap into the holy Hebrew root in order to become spiritually healthy olive branches.”  How might the people of God follow this vital instruction today?  Please consider the following:

       a.  your church

       b.  your family

       c.  your Bible study or prayer group

       d.  yourself

15.  As you learned in this lesson, YAHveh has a plan for Israel.  Loving the Jewish people with an “everlasting love,” He longs for them to return to Him and to be grafted back in again.  He longs for them to be part of His holy temple – “one new man” Jews and Gentiles together in one body as He intended.  At this point, do you understand YAHveh’s love for the Jewish people better than you did before?

16.  The word reconciliation is vital to our understanding of what YAHshua accomplished in His sacrificial death.  Discuss the concept of reconciliation creating one new man for YAHveh’s glory.

17.  In your closing prayers each person should ask YAHveh to reveal to their hearts any attitudes that are a result of “replacement theology.”  With a broken and contrite and repentant heart over believing Satan’s lies, ask YAHshua to forgive you and to remove every vestige of “replacement theology” and its anti-Semitic roots.  Then ask Him to fill you with His everlasting love and soundness of mind towards His chosen people.

LESSON 4

The Ancient Serpent’s Trail Begins

(Study Guide for chapters 10-12 Holy to YAHveh)

1.         As you begin this week’s lesson, look up Isaiah 57:14 in your Bible.  List below the commands given in this verse.

2.         Pause for a moment to reflect on the purpose of this study – to purify a remnant of believers so that they might be brought closer to the glory of YAHveh and advance the eternal kingdom of His Son, YAHshua.  Spend a few moments in prayer, asking the Father to use today’s study of His Word to reveal and remove any obstacle that would keep you from being a pure vessel in His hands.  After you have prayed, read chapter 10 of Holy to YAHveh.  As you read, write down two statements from this chapter that you find personally convicting.

            1.

            2.

3.         The text begins this chapter by reminding us of the powerful admonitions against anti-Semitism (hostility toward the Jewish people) given to Gentile believers in Ephesians 2-3 and Romans 9-11.  These are the very Scriptures that the Enemy has strategically obscured or obliterated from the mentality of corporate Christianity.  Although you have already studied these passages in depth, your next assignment is to read them again and write a brief “summary statement” for each, summarizing what each passage teaches Gentile believers with regard to the Jewish people.

a.         Ephesians 2:11-16

b.         Ephesians 2:17-21

c.         Ephesians 3:4-6

d.         Romans 10:1

e.         Romans 11:1 and 11

f.          Romans 11:17-20

g.         Romans 11:25-29

4.         As you have already read in chapter 10 on page 73,

Today in Jerusalem, as plans for the reconstruction of the Almighty’s earthly temple are underway, so too is YAHshua working to build His spiritual temple for His near return and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.  Time is of the essence; the Master Architect is going to remove all hindrances and stumbling blocks from among His people.  He is going to build His holy house, His spiritual temple, according to His sovereign blueprints.  [emphasis added]

One of the major stumbling blocks found in corporate Christianity today is anti-Semitism – hostility toward the covenant people of God, the Jews.  Read chapter 11 of Holy to YAHveh, which describes the ancient roots of anti-Semitism.  As you read, take detailed notes on the following events discussed. Your goal is to develop a deeper understanding of anti-Semitism’s satanic roots and the hostility and hatred experienced by “the chosen people” throughout Bible history.

a.         Satan’s initial appearance in the Garden of Eden.

b.         YAHveh’s declaration to Satan in Genesis 3:15.

c.         Satan’s war against the promised seed of the woman.

d.         The rivalry between brothers:   Ishmael and Isaac; Esau and Jacob.

e.         The ensuing hostility between Ishmael’s and Esau’s descendants and the Hebrew people.

f.          Pharaoh of Egypt and his plot against Jewish male children (Exodus 1:15-22).

g.         Haman’s plan in the book of Esther (Esther 3:5-13).

h.         King Herod’s New Testament strategy (Matthew 2:13-18).

5.         After studying these preceding Scriptures, summarize what Satan was attempting to do and why his efforts were so relentless.  How did he use willing individuals in an effort to carry out his agenda?

6.         Read chapter 12 of Holy to YAHveh.  Use the space below to take notes on the points you find particularly poignant in this chapter.

7.         When YAHshua the Messiah died on the cross and rose again, His Adversary suffered a massive blow and his agenda a major setback.  The “dividing wall” separating Jews from Gentiles had served his purposes well in promoting hostility toward Israel.  Now the dividing wall had been destroyed through the blood of YAHshua (Ephesians 2:13-14).  Believing Jews and Gentiles were now joined together as “one new man” (Ephesians 2:15).  According to the text, what did Satan do next?  Please describe his new strategy below.

8.         As the “father of lies” (John 8:44), Satan has but one powerful weapon of warfare.  That is his ability to deceive.  In chapter 12, the text outlines three lies by which the Enemy has deceived much of corporate Christianity and promoted his strategy of anti-Semitism.  Write these three lies (“viper eggs”) below.

            1.

            2.

            3.

9.         Now take a moment to look more closely at those three lies.  Draw an arrow from the first lie to the second and from the second lie to the third.  Next to each arrow, write out the reason why the acceptance of each lie might have led to belief in the next lie.  How might these lies have led to an array of unbiblical thoughts and attitudes toward Israel?  How might they have led to incorrect church doctrines regarding Israel?

10.       The three lies which Satan “injected” in the doctrines of the early church were based on a fundamental assumption – that the Jews were singularly responsible for killing the Messiah.  Read the following verses and record what you learn about who was actually responsible for the death of YAHshua – and who was ultimately sovereign over this pivotal event in history.

a.         Acts 4:23-28

b.         John 10:17-18

11.       With the aid of these three lies, Satan has erected another “dividing wall” between Gentiles and Jews in our generation.  How have you seen this “dividing wall” exemplified in recent years?  What examples of hostility, jealousy, or pride toward the Jewish people have you witnessed in your church, city, nation, or in the world?

12.       If you are a Gentile believer, have you yourself been vulnerable to anti-Semitic attitudes?  At the very least, have you been ignorant of God’s heart toward Israel?  Have you in any way played into Satan’s strategy of cursing the Jews, YAHveh’s chosen people, rather than blessing them as He commanded (Genesis 12:2-3)?  Ask the Spirit of Truth (Ruach HaKodesh) to search your heart; then write your answer below.

Questions for Group Discussion

1.    The apostle Paul was concerned about Gentile believers who might fall back into the old habit of exhibiting arrogance and hostility toward the Jewish people.  What admonitions did he give to Gentiles in Ephesians 2-3 and Romans 9-11?

2.    Do you think that these admonitions have been remembered or forgotten by the church today?  Explain.

3.    What is anti-Semitism?  If you are a Gentile believer, what evidences of anti-Semitism have you seen in your lifetime?  If you are a Jewish believer, how have you, your family, or your friends experienced anti-Semitism?

4.    According to the text, what or who is behind all anti-Semitism (hostility toward the Jewish people)?

5.    Read Genesis 3:14-15.  What pronouncement did YAHveh make regarding the offspring of the woman and the serpent?  What prophetic significance did this statement have?  Throughout Old Testament history, how did Satan respond to this pronouncement of the Almighty?

6.    Through what lineage of people was the Messiah to come?  Read Genesis 12:1-3.  What did YAHveh promise Abraham and his family?  What did He promise regarding those who would curse this family/nation?  How are these promises relevant to the subject of anti-Semitism?  How are they relevant to Gentile believers today?

7.    Discuss how Satan attempted to thwart YAHveh’s plan to bring forth a Redeemer out of Israel as seen in the following events:

a.     The rivalry between brothers:  Ishmael and Isaac; Esau and Jacob.

b.    The ongoing hostility between Ishmael’s and Esau’s descendants and the Hebrew people.

c.     The plot of Pharaoh of Egypt against Jewish male children (Exodus 1:15-22).

d.    Haman’s plan as recorded in the book of Esther (Esther 3:5-13).

e.     King Herod’s strategy to eliminate the infant Messiah (Matthew 2:13-18).

8.    Consider for a moment Satan’s level of success at stirring up hatred toward Israel with the ultimate goal of eliminating the Messiah.  How successful do you think he was to this point?  When YAHshua was eventually crucified, how successful do you think Satan thought he was?

9.    Unfortunately for Satan, the death of YAHshua did not have the intended result.  Discuss the elements of His death and resurrection that must have surprised the Devil.

10.  Read Ephesians 2:13-18.  How did the destruction of the dividing wall separating Jews from Gentiles signify a major defeat for Satan?  According to the text, how did the Devil shift his strategy in light of this new development?

11.  Satan’s newest strategy was to re-erect the wall of division between the Jews and Gentiles.  He accomplished this by “injecting” false beliefs regarding Israel into the religious and political doctrines of the early church. 

a.     What is the first lie (“viper egg”) that Satan injected into church doctrine?

b.    How do Acts 4:23-28 and John 10:17-18 refute this lie?

12.  The belief that “Jews are Christ-killers” led to a second false doctrine that was embraced by much of corporate Christianity.

a.     What is that doctrine?

b.    What Scriptures have you studied that refute this doctrine?

13.  A third false doctrine sprang from the second.

a.     What is that doctrine?

       It is a grievous fact that 75% to 85% of the churches have to one degree or another embraced replacement theology!

       We, as a group, need to search our hearts and repent if we have fallen prey to the falsehood of replacement theology.  We are to hold out the word of truth to others that they might turn from the darkness to the light as well.  May YAHveh bless you in your closing prayer to seal all that you have learned in this lesson.

LESSON 5

Anti-Semitism Fanned into Flames

(Study Guide for chapters 13-15 Holy to YAHveh)

1.         As we have seen in our study thus far, it was YAHveh’s intention that the Gentile Christian church not depart from its historic Hebrew roots, but remain firmly established in “the rich root of the olive tree” (Romans 11:17).  YAHveh’s plan was that the holy Hebrew root be a source of nourishment and support for His body, the true church.  However, the early church fathers had different ideas.

A careful look at the history of corporate Christianity will reveal how the “ancient Serpent’s trail” of anti-Semitism continued throughout the centuries, causing the Gentile Christian church to become detached from its holy Hebrew root – even igniting hatred between believing Christians and the Messiah’s beloved brothers and sisters, the Jews.

Read chapter 13 of Holy to YAHveh.  As you read, you will learn much about the historical roots of corporate Christianity.  Please take detailed notes on the attitudes, beliefs, and actions of each of these early “church fathers” with regard to the Jewish people.  Also note the influence each may have had on the doctrines, traditions, and actions of today’s churches and believers.

a.         Origen

b.         Chrysostom

c.         St. Jerome

d.         Augustine

e.         Constantine

f.          Justinian

g.         the Crusaders

h.         leaders of the Inquisitions

i.          Martin Luther

2.         Read Isaiah 59:2-5 (NIV), printed for you below.  As you read, circle every reference to the people described in the passage.  (You will be circling “you,” “your,” “they,” and any other word that refers to these people.)  Then list below everything you learn about these people.

... your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.  For your hands are stained with blood, your fingers with guilt. Your lips have spoken lies, and your tongue mutters wicked things.  No one calls for justice; no one pleads his case with integrity. They rely on empty arguments and speak lies; they conceive trouble and give birth to evil.  They hatch the eggs of vipers and spin a spider's web. Whoever eats their eggs will die, and when one is broken, an adder is hatched.

3.         Looking over the list you just made, how does this passage relate to what you have learned about the early church fathers and the foundations of corporate Christianity?

4.         The text on page 96 quotes Dr. Michael L. Brown, who wrote, “Let us hang our heads in shame.  The ‘Church’ has blood on her hands.”  In your opinion, does the church have blood on her hands?  Explain your answer.

5.         Chapter 14 of Holy to YAHveh outlines the link between Christian anti-Semitism and the Holocaust of Nazi Germany.  It can be assumed that most Christians today are repulsed and grieved by the atrocities committed against the Jewish people by Hitler and his followers.  However, many Christians are grossly ignorant of the way in which anti-Semitic “Christian” theology and doctrine precipitated these events and was used to justify the crimes of those who sought to eliminate the Jewish race.  The great tragedy is that the very same theology that helped fuel the Nazi hate engine is alive in the church today.

            Read chapter 14 and make careful notes on the link between Christian (both Catholic and Protestant) anti-Semitism and the Holocaust. 

6.         As the text states on page 103 in chapter 14:

Today is it any wonder that the majority of Jews in the world respond in horror and dread to the name Jesus Christ?  The name that is above all names to Christians has become a curse word to them, reeking with the stench of torment and death, and never to be spoken in Jewish homes.

            Knowing that you are not personally accountable for the actions of other Christians during the Holocaust, what responsibility do you have in light of the truth you now know?  What do you think your Savior would have you do to help rectify sins committed against the Jewish people in the name of Jesus Christ? 

7.         During the reign of David, there was a three-year famine in the land due to the sins of David’s predecessor, Saul.  David was not responsible for Saul’s transgressions, yet he was required to take action in order to remedy those sins.  Read 2 Samuel 21:1-3.

8.         David repented and made restitution for the “blood-stained house” of Saul.  Using David as our example, what must the body of Messiah do to make amends for the “blood-stained house” of corporate Christianity (specifically regarding its treatment of the Jews)?  Prayerfully consider your answer before writing it down.

9.         Now read chapter 15 of Holy to YAHveh.  The chapter opens with the thoughts of Basilea Schlink, a German nun.  As you read the first few pages of this chapter, write down the seven questions Basilea asks.  (You may paraphrase these questions in order to shorten them.)

            1.

            2.

            3.

            4.

            5.

            6.

            7.

10.       After you have read chapter 15 in its entirety, take a moment to reconsider the seven questions you recorded above.  How would you attempt to answer them?  In the space below each question, write out your heartfelt response to each. 

11.       King David sought the “presence of YAHveh” in order to make amends for the blood guilt of Saul.  It’s time for us to seek Him and make amends for the blood guilt of our forefathers in the church.  Please read the following Scriptures and record what YAHveh would have us do (or not do) concerning the Jewish people.

a.         Jeremiah 9:1

b.         Isaiah 40:1-2 (Throughout Scripture, the people of Israel are strongly identified with their capital city, Jerusalem, so that the phrase “speak kindly to Jerusalem” can also be stated, “speak kindly to the Jewish people.”)

c.         Matthew 25:31-40 (Please note that when YAHshua the King speaks of “these brothers of mine,” He is speaking of His brothers and sisters, the Jews.)

d.         Obadiah 1:10-12

e.         2 Corinthians 5:18-19

f.          Jeremiah 31:7

g.         Romans 10:1

h.         Romans 1:16 (Note the divine order given in this verse.)

i.          Isaiah 52:7 (Zion is another name for Jerusalem)

Questions for Group Discussion

1.    Chapter 13 is entitled “Do You Know What Hurts Me?”  Having completed this week’s personal study, do you know what hurts and grieves your Father, YAHveh?  Explain.

2.    In your study of the early church fathers from Origen to Martin Luther, what surprised you most to learn?  Did anything cause you sorrow?

3.    It goes without saying that with regard to the Jews, corporate Christianity has behaved in a manner that is diametrically opposed to YAHshua’s message of love.  But with what religious beliefs and doctrines did the early church fathers support their actions?  How did they justify hating and persecuting the Jews?

4.    In what way did anti-Semitic Christian theology contribute to the Holocaust?

5.    Dr. Michael L. Brown wrote, “Let us hang our heads in shame.  The ‘Church’ has blood on her hands.”  Do you agree with this statement?  Why or why not?

6.    Read Isaiah 59:2-5 aloud.  How does this passage relate to what you have learned about the Christian church’s persecution of the Jewish people?

7.    Does the church of today have any responsibility to right the wrongs committed by our forefathers against the Jews?  Do individuals (individual Gentile believers) have a responsibility in this area?  Explain your answer.

8.    Should David’s repentance and restitution for the bloodstained house of Saul serve as an example for us?  How?

9.    In chapter 15, what was your reaction to Basilea Schlink’s statement, “Whoever wants to know the heart of God will do so by acquainting himself with His people Israel”?

10.  Read aloud the excerpt from Basilea Schlink’s Israel, My Chosen People (chapter 15, page 110-111).  What is your reaction to her statements?  Do you feel that they have validity?  Why or why not?

11.  Look up the following Scriptures.  Discuss what each passage teaches concerning the Jewish people.  What attitudes and actions on the part of Gentile believers would aid in “making amends” for the sins of their forefathers?

a.     Jeremiah 9:1

b.    Isaiah 40:1-2

c.     Matthew 25:31-40

d.    Obadiah 1:10-12

e.     2 Corinthians 5:18-19

f.     Jeremiah 31:7

g.     Romans 10:1

h.     Romans 1:16

i.      Isaiah 52:7

12.  The first step in making amends for the church’s historic treatment of the Jews is repentance.  If your group is in agreement that repentance is needed and desired by YAHveh at this time, please pray in unison the prayer that is given at the end of chapter 15.  Substitute we, us, and our for I, me, and my as you read this prayer aloud.

Then allow a brief time for private and spontaneous prayer, remembering Jeremiah 31:7 (NASB):  “Sing aloud with gladness for Jacob,...Proclaim, give praise, and say, ‘O YAHveh, save Thy people, The remnant of Israel.’ ”

LESSON 6

The Saul Generation

(Study Guide for chapters 16-19 Holy to YAHveh)

1.         Begin your personal study by opening your Bible to 1 Corinthians 10:6, 11-12.  This week you will be studying a series of events in Israel’s history, but before you do, read these verses in 1 Corinthians and note below why we are instructed to study the Old Testament and the history of YAHveh’s people Israel.

2.         In order to help us understand the shortcomings and sins of historic Christianity, chapter 16 of Holy to YAHveh deals with lessons from King Saul’s reign over Israel.  As you saw in the preceding verses, these things happened as warnings and examples for us.

Study the Scripture passages listed below.  As you read these, ask yourself who is described in the passage, what happens in the passage, when and where does it happen, and why and how does it happen.  Make thorough notes on what you learn.  When you have finished with this exercise, you’ll have a complete outline of passages pertinent to chapter 16.

a.         1 Samuel 8:1-9 - Israel demands a king.

b.         1 Samuel 8:10-18 - Israel is warned.

c.         1 Samuel 8:19-20 - The response of the people.

d.         1 Samuel 12:13-15 - YAHveh grants their wish, but gives another warning.

e.         1 Samuel 15:1-3 - Saul’s instructions for battle.

f.          1 Samuel 15:7-9 - How Saul carried out those plans.

g.         1 Samuel 15:10-11 - YAHveh’s evaluation of Saul’s obedience.

h.         1 Samuel 15:12 - Samuel looks for Saul.

i.          1 Samuel 15:13 - Saul’s evaluation of his own obedience.

j.          1 Samuel 15:14-19 - Samuel confronts Saul.

k.         1 Samuel 15:20-21 - Saul justifies his actions.

l.          1 Samuel 15:22-23 - Samuel’s response.

m.        1 Samuel 15:24 - Saul’s excuse for disobeying.

n.         1 Samuel 15:26-29 and 16:14 - The consequences of Saul’s partial obedience and lack of true repentance.

3.         Now read chapter 16 of Holy to YAHveh.  As you read, you will notice that the text parallels events from the life of Saul with events and attitudes seen in Christianity’s religious system.  Listed below are elements of the Saul account.  Below each, write the parallel seen in historic or contemporary Christianity.  The first one is done for you.

a.         Israel’s demand for a king (rather than YAHveh as sole ruler).

Christianity wanted human leadership instead of the sole authority of God as their leader, so they embraced an organized religious system with denominations, etc.

b.         YAHveh’s warning in response to the demands of Israel.

c.         YAHveh’s instructions for Saul to annihilate the Amalekites.

d.         Saul’s disobedience by sparing the best of the plunder.

e.         Saul’s setting up a monument in his own honor.

f.          Samuel’s confrontation of Saul.

g.         Saul’s people-pleasing and consuming concern for his own reputation.

h.         YAHveh’s rejection of Saul as king.

i.          YAHveh’s Spirit departing from Saul.

4.         Chapter 16 opens with these statements:

Throughout the ages, the church has been lacking the full measure of the glory and presence of the Almighty.  Christianity is not standing as a bright beacon in this dark and decaying world.  In these last days, the church has become quite accomplished at bringing the message of salvation.  However, it has not been overwhelmingly successful in bringing the multitudes out of darkness.

Please underline any statements you agree with in the preceding paragraph.  In light of your study of the reign of Saul, what reason can you give for church’s lack of “the full measure of the glory and presence of the Almighty”?

5.         Read chapter 17 of Holy to YAHveh.  As you read the beginning of this chapter, add to your work in exercise 3 of this lesson by listing anything new that you learn about the ways in which organized Christianity parallels the Saul account.

            King Saul “pounced on the plunder” of the Amalekites, sparing what he thought was good rather than utterly destroying it as YAHveh had commanded.  He compromised God’s instructions, and His partial obedience (i.e., disobedience) caused YAHveh to withdraw His Spirit.  In chapter 17 you will learn that over the centuries corporate Christianity has also compromised with the world.  The church has mixed the holy things of YAHveh with the impure, pagan, and common – and has justified its compromises by claiming that it has “spared the best” for God.

            This quote is taken from The Feasts of the LORD by Howard/Rosenthal, p. 172-173.  (This book will be a valuable asset to those who want to increase their understanding of the biblical Feasts.)

            Although the Bible records the birth of the Messiah, no biblical basis exists for the date or observance of the Messiah’s birthday.  In fact, for more than three centuries, the early Church viewed the celebration of birthdays as a heathen custom.

            Yet, the dates of Hanukkah and Christmas are connected.  Zeus was seen as the incarnation of the sun.  Together with his goddess-mother, Rhea (the Queen of Heaven), they formed the Greek version of the mother/child cult founded in Babylon.  Antiochus chose the 25th of the month to desecrate the Temple with his pagan sacrifice because it was the birthday of Zeus.  It was the winter solstice, when days began to lengthen.  Sun worshipping pagans, therefore, celebrated December 25 as the birthday of the new sun.

            To sun-worshipping Romans, Zeus was known as Jupiter.  He was the son of Saturn and Ops.  He was the supreme Roman deity and the father of the other pagan gods.  December 17-24 was called Saturnalia (in honor of Saturn) and celebrated with unrestrained license.  The Romans celebrated December 25th, (the birthday of Zeus/Jupiter) as Dies Natalis Invisti Solis, “the day of the Nativity of the Unconquered Sun.”

            In the fourth century A.D., the Roman Church chose December 25 as the day to celebrate “Christ’s Mass,” a special mass in honor of Christ’s birth.  It was part of a concerted effort to “Christianize” pagan Roman rites so that all peoples of the empire could be brought into the Roman Church.

            For centuries, many segments of Christianity condemned the observance of December as sun worship.  A.H. Newman writes: “Christian preachers of the West and the Nearer East protested against the unseemly frivolity with which Christ’s birthday was celebrated, which Christians of Mesopotamia accused their Western brethren of idolatry and sun-worship for adopting as Christians this pagan festival.  Yet the festival rapidly gained acceptance and became, at last, so firmly established that even the Protestant revolution of the sixteenth century was not able to dislodge it” (The New Schaff-Herzog Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge, p. 48).

As you read chapter 17, please take detailed notes on the worldly compromises made by the “Saul generation” with regard to:

a.         The celebration of Messiah’s birth

b.         The observance of YAHshua’s resurrection

6.         Read chapter 18 of Holy to YAHveh.  Continue taking thorough notes on how the “Saul generation” mixed the impure with the holy with regard to:

a.         The observance of the biblical Sabbath (Shabbat in Hebrew).  The Hebrew word Shabbat comes from a word meaning to desist, cease, or rest.  Use as reference points:

b.         How did Constantine’s edicts influence the changing of the Biblical Sabbath?  Incorporate in your answer the pagan named days Satur-day and Sun-day.

c.         What policy during the reformation, helped to seal this man made change concerning the Biblical Sabbath.  See page 132 of Holy to YAHveh.

7.         YAHveh’s days begin in the evening and end the following evening.  See Geneses 1:5, 8, 13, 19, 23, 31.  The Seventh day, the Biblically ordained Sabbath, begins at sundown on _________________ and ends sundown on ___________________.

8.         Let’s trace the Sabbath back to its origins from creation to the present.  Remember that the Sabbath was more than just a covenant with Israel.  It was instituted long before Israel became YAHveh’s chosen nation and more importantly it is part of the Ten Commandments written by the very finger of YAHveh as a testimony to all mankind.

            Read and summarize the following Scriptures:

a.         Geneses 2:2-3

b.         Exodus 20:8-11.  Remember that this is the Fourth Commandment

c.         Exodus 31:12-18

d.         Isaiah 58:13-14

e.         Isaiah 66:23

9.         YAHshua spoke concerning the Sabbath write out the following Scripture.

a.         Mk 2:27

10.       Let’s look at YAHveh’s admonitions to His people concerning their disregard of the Fourth Commandment.  Summarize the following Scriptures.

a.         Ne 13:17-18

b.         Eze 22:26

c.         YAHveh was very explicit about the need for wholehearted obedience to His Ten Commandments.  Write out Dt. 4:2

11.       YAHshua continued exhorting the people concerning His Father’s immutable Commandments.  Take to heart and write out:

a.         Mt 15:6b-9

b.         Mt 5:18-19

12.       The issue of YAHveh and YAHshua’s true names as well as the Holy Biblical Sabbath are a sharp point in the sword in YAHshua’s hand that are destined to divide the righteous remnant from the religious masses.

            Each one of us is accountable before a holy God to work out our salvation with fear and trembling.  We have been redeemed by the precious blood of the Lamb to become priests who are Holy to YAHveh.  A righteous remnant whose lives line up in obedience to His righteous decrees.  We need to seriously seek YAHveh regarding these holy issues.  His Spirit of Truth will lead us and ground us in His perfect will. 

            We’re not held accountable for what we do not know, but he who knows what to do and does not do it sins.  May you seek Him with all your heart and pray a prayer similar to one on page 135 of Holy to YAHveh.  As He is faithful and desires to lead you in paths of righteousness for His names sake. 

13.       YAHveh abides forever; He has established His throne for judgment, And He will judge the world in righteousness.  (Ps 9:7-8)

            His prophets words are as a bright light to lighten our path of escape from the judgments to come.  They are words of merciful warning to spur the remnant on that highway of holiness. 

a.         Write down Isaiah 56:1-2 and 6-7

14.       Now read chapter 19.  In the space below, record four statements from the chapter that you find particularly meaningful.

            1.

            2.

            3.

            4.

15.       How important is it to YAHveh that the church today (as well as individual Christians) depart from man-made traditions and doctrines that originated from paganism, in order to return to the purity of what He ordained so long ago?  Study the following Scriptures before summarizing your conclusion below.

a.         Leviticus 18:30

b.         Leviticus 10:10

c.         Ezekiel 22:31

d.         Deuteronomy 12:32

e.         My conclusion:

16.       Ask the Spirit of YAHveh to search your heart to reveal what He would have you do in response to this lesson.  Are there man-made traditions that must be renounced?  Is there doctrinal thinking that needs to be corrected in light of the biblical truth you’ve seen?  As you spend time in prayer with your Father, remember that 1 John 5:3 says, “This is the love of YAHveh, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.”

Questions for Group Discussion

1.    According to 1 Corinthians 10:6, 11-12, why are Gentile believers instructed to study the Old Testament and YAHveh’s dealings with Israel?

2.    Saul was appointed king over Israel after the people of Israel demanded a human ruler.  What incident does the text refer to as Saul’s greatest error of rebellion?  Discuss the details of this episode.

3.    What do you think displeased YAHveh the most about this incident?

4.    When confronted with his sin, how did Saul respond?  Do you think his sorrow over his sin was genuine?  Why or why not?

5.    What were the consequences of Saul’s sinful compromise?

6.    In YAHveh’s eyes, does partial obedience of His expressed will constitute obedience or disobedience?  How do you know?  Use the life of Saul as the basis for your answer.

7.    The text parallels the compromise of Saul with the compromises of corporate Christianity throughout history.  In your opinion, how do these compare?

8.    The text states on page 120:

Church history bears witness that many church leaders and individuals have been the embodiment of the Saul mentality.  In self-justified disobedience, they have misinterpreted and distorted the Word of YAHveh, which resulted in many erroneous doctrines and traditions.

       Can you cite any examples of this?  Feel free to discuss what you have observed in organized, denominational Christianity as well as examples given in the text.

9.    What is “the filleting of Messiah”?  How does this practice epitomize the “Saul mentality”?

10.  How did the early church fathers mix the pagan with the holy when establishing the date on which the Messiah’s birth would be celebrated?  What did the date December 25 originally represent?  What pagan traditions were “Christianized” and incorporated in the religious celebration called Christmas?

11.  On what holy feast of Israel is YAHshua likely to have been born?  What is the significance of this feast?  In what way was YAHshua’s birth the fulfillment of this feast?

12.  By separating the Messiah’s birth , death, and resurrection from their fulfillment of the Hebrew feasts, how did the early leaders further separate the church from its “holy Hebrew root?”  How did they further rob YAHshua of His Jewish identity?

13.  How did organized Christianity mix the holy and the profane in the way it began to celebrate YAHshua’s resurrection?

14.  What is the Biblical Sabbath?  When is the Biblical Sabbath, and why was it instituted? 

15.  How did anti-Judaism and pagan tradition impact church doctrine regarding the Sabbath?  What does the Sabbath mean to Christians today?  Is the modern church’s understanding and observance of the Sabbath biblical?

16.  Are you, like so many through out America, righteously indignant and alarmed over this countries appalling actions in trying to remove the Ten Commandments from state and federal buildings, including the public schools?  We must ask the author of the Ten Commandments if He is righteously indignant that those who call Him Lord and Savior have removed the Fourth Commandment from Christianity’s doctrine as well as from the lives of the individual redeemed temples in which He chooses to dwell?

17.  From what you have studied and prayerfully considered regarding the Sabbath share with one another what YAHveh has revealed to your hearts and encourage one another to walk in righteousness according to His Commandments and not the traditions of religion.

18.  During the Middle Ages, how did the church’s belief in the authority of Scripture change?

19.  Today in your spiritual walk, church, or denomination, which is considered more important:  adherence to Scripture or church tradition?  Which receives the greater emphasis?

20.  Read Matthew 15:3-9.  How did the Pharisees “nullify” (NIV) or “invalidate” (NASB) the Word of God?  Why did YAHshua refer to them as “hypocrites”?  Might Messiah use the same words to describe many Christians and churches today?  Why or why not?

21.  In chapter 17, the text states on page 123:

True disciples of YAHshua must be willing to count the cost to follow Him, forsaking the love and approval of men.  True disciples must choose between their familiar and often sentimental traditions and the pure, holy worship of YAHveh.

       Which man-made church traditions do you think would be the most difficult to renounce?  What opposition would you expect to face if you chose to renounce these traditions?  Whose “love and approval” might you expect to lose?  What spiritual rewards could you anticipate experiencing?

22.  You have learned much regarding “the plunder” that the “Saul generation” throughout Christian history has brought into YAHveh’s holy camp.  It would be wise and beneficial to seal these truths as you pray together as a body over these issues. Remember that repentance over the sins of corporate Christianity as well as our individual sins should be the foundation upon which these prayers are offered up to a holy God.  Humble yourselves before YAHveh, perhaps even on your knees, as each one of taking his turn prays a loud in wholehearted sincerity.

LESSON 7

The David Generation

(Study Guide for chapters 20-22 Holy to YAHveh)

1.         Let’s review what we have learned from our study thus far.  It was YAHveh’s original intention that through the blood of His Son, YAHshua, His church would be composed of Jews and Gentiles together in one body (Ephesians 2:13-14; 3:6).  The majority of Jewish people rejected YAHshua the Messiah when He “came to His own” (John 1:11); however, following His crucifixion and resurrection, the offer of salvation by faith was still available to them.

YAHveh had not rejected Israel; in fact, the apostle Paul wrote, “May it never be!” (Romans 11:1).  Paul vehemently denied that the Jewish people were now excluded from the purposes and plans of YAHveh, clearly stating in Romans 11:26-29:

...and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, “The Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.”  “And this is My covenant with them, When I take away their sins.”  From the standpoint of the gospel they are enemies for your sake, but from the standpoint of YAHveh’s choice they are beloved for the sake of the fathers; for the gifts and calling of YAHveh are irrevocable.  [emphasis added]

            YAHveh intended that the Gentile believers in the Jewish Messiah woo the people of Israel to YAHshua by their great love.  The church was to “speak tenderly to Jerusalem” (Isaiah 40:1-2 NIV), weep day and night for them (Jeremiah 9:1), and proclaim salvation to them by saying, “Your God reigns!” (Isaiah 52:7).

            Other than the love and compassion of YAHshua’s followers, what was to draw the Jewish people to the Messiah?  His Hebrew identity.  The Jews had always awaited a Jewish Messiah.  This, in part, must have been at the heart of YAHveh’s warning to Gentile believers that they must remain closely connected to the rich Hebrew root of their faith (Romans 11).  Unfortunately, the early church fathers disregarded this warning.  They did not recognize the significant connection between the holy feasts of Israel and their fulfillment through Messiah.  They demeaned the biblical feasts by replacing them with “Christianized” pagan holidays.  They altered YAHveh’s holy Sabbath by polluting it with pagan influences.  Most tragically of all, they stripped the Messiah of His Hebrew name and identity.

            As you studied last week, these are the sins of the “Saul generation” – the generation of Christians and church leaders that has been characterized by partial obedience (disobedience), mixing the holy with the profane, half-hearted repentance, self-promotion and self-justification, monument building, and finally, operating without the Spirit and authority of YAHveh.

            You will learn in chapter 20 of Holy to YAHveh that today YAHveh is raising up a “David generation” to replace the “Saul generation,” just as He raised up King David to replace the disobedient Saul.  Look up the Scripture passages below.  Note what you learn about David from these verses, and contrast this with what you know about Saul.

a.         1 Samuel 15:28

b.         1 Samuel 13:14

c.         Acts 13:22

d.         Psalm 138:1-2

e.         Psalm 86:11-12

f.          1 Samuel 16:13

g.         Psalm 89:20, 24

h.         2 Samuel 5:10

2.         In two of the passages that you studied, Scripture emphasizes that David was “a man after [YAHveh’s] own heart.”  If you know anything at all about David’s life, you know that he wasn’t perfect (read 2 Samuel 11-12 for evidence of this).  Yet YAHveh had a high opinion of David and was able to work through him.  Based on your study of David thus far, why was David called “a man after [YAHveh’s] own heart”?  Why was YAHveh able to use him?

3.         Read chapter 20 of Holy to YAHveh.  As you read, take notes on the pertinent points of this chapter.

4.         Now pause for a moment and ask the Spirit of Truth to search your heart.  Which would you rather be a part of – the “David generation” or the “Saul generation”?  After you have prayerfully considered this question, write your answer and the reason for it below.

5.         If you are to be a member of the “David generation,” what characteristics will be evident in your life?  List at least five characteristics below.  Base these on the Scriptures you have studied and the truths you learned in chapter 20.

            1.

            2.

            3.

            4.

            5.

6.         As this remnant strives to be faithful and obedient to YAHveh and His purposes, the “David generation” will not be unopposed.  Even though David was raised up by YAHveh to accomplish His purposes, King Saul was not immediately removed from his position.  Although all spiritual authority and power had departed from Saul, he was still permitted to “maintain the status quo” for a season.  Consequently he became insanely jealous and was greatly threatened by David, who did operate in the strength, power, and victories through YAHveh’s name and Spirit.

Read and summarize this scenario describing the conflict between Saul and David..

a.         1 Samuel 18:6-15   

7.         In the body of Messiah, we tend to think of the world as our primary source of conflict.  In other words, we often view our main opposition as being external – coming from outside the ranks of the church.  However, we have already identified the “Saul generation” as consisting of compromised church leaders and individuals within the church who have placed priority on man-made traditions and worldly preoccupations.

            If we strive to live and operate as the “David generation,” what opposition can we expect to encounter from the “Saul generation” that is still present within the church today?

8.         David was not established as king for his own benefit or selfish gain.  Neither will the “David generation” be raised up and established for its own benefit.

a.         Read 2 Samuel 5:12, and write below for whose sake David was raised up and established as king.