“Truth has fallen in the street!” The prophet Isaiah’s pronouncement resonates as loudly in the age in which we live as it did for ancient Israel and Judah. As is often the case, over time the rulers and judges whose job it was to promote truth and justice became derelict in their duties. As a result, the people suffered. We see the same thing happening today.
Today’s youth, particularly those from Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2021), seem to have distanced themselves from the concept of objective truth. Instead, they interpret the world through perspectives labeled as “my truth” or “your truth.” Yet, the idea of objective truth is deeply embedded in the Scriptures, first appearing in the prologue of the Gospel of John.
And the Word became flesh and pitched his tent among us, and we saw his esteem, esteem as of an only brought-forth of a father, complete in favor and truth. John/Yahanan 1:14 Halleluyah Scriptures
Actually, most of John’s writings stressed the importance of truth and its relevance to the Gospel message. In Proverbs 23:23 we are instructed to “buy the truth and sell it not.” Why? Because the Scriptures equate truth with reality, showing us how things really are in this earthly realm in which we live. In a theological sense, the notion of truth is inseparable from the character, purposes, and divine nature of Elohim. Ultimately, truth is the cornerstone of Yah’s invisible Kingdom now, and the future Millennial Kingdom on Earth, where righteousness will prevail.
Defending Truth in the Age of Deception and Misinformation
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
Educator Josh Keefe has witnessed first-hand how misinformation has permeated many of today’s academic institutions. During his 16-year background in education, Josh has observed the year-by-year creep of pseudoscience into the classroom. He can also bear witness to the elevation of evolution and heliocentrism dogma over intelligent design and biblical cosmology. No longer content with the status quo, Josh is now ready to take his professional and faith life in a new direction with the launch of Creation Standard.
Q: You shared with me how wrestling seems to be a metaphor for your experience as both a student and teacher. Can you articulate how your wrestling background as a young man brought you to this point in your life?
Before I entered high school, I had struggled to pass each grade level and had no desire to go to college. Fortunately, the Father had other plans as wrestling gave me a reason to pass my classes and the motivation needed to attend college. It was also used to help teach me how to pray and keep my mind off of the distractions of this world.
Q: In your faith journey, describe how you wrestled with mainstream thought regarding evolution and geocentrism. When did you deviate from this mode of thinking based on what you believe the Scriptures say about both?
When I first started teaching, a couple of unique circumstances led to me being placed into an earth science classroom. Ironically, they handed me a globe and showed me how I could use it to teach the Coriolis effect. Fortunately, our Father’s mercy endures forever and He would eventually work some miracles in my life that would cause me to question everything that went against His truth. Evolution was the first lie to fall apart but I still needed more answers so I asked the Father to “show me the truth about creation no matter how crazy it sounds.” I can say from this experience, “be careful what you ask for” as this prayer was answered promptly. Within a couple of days, I joined a scientific community of truth seekers that were putting the sun god worshipping model to the test. It became clear that there is far more proof of Biblical cosmology than there ever was for the sun god worshipping model. I began sharing the overwhelming proof online, but of course, this is frowned upon if you’re a science teacher, so I was called to the office a total of 3 times to be reprimanded for my online teachings.
Q: Tell us about your new project The Creation Standard. On your website, you describe it as “a weapon of mass instruction.” What is this ‘weapon’ aimed at?
My goal as a teacher was to save my own students from the lies by creating lessons that would expose the fraudulent evidence of evolution for what it is while also opening their eyes to the truth of intelligent design. I knew there were other less fortunate students out there being exposed to false science, but I didn’t realize what a battlefield it was until they changed my role and placed me in classes with teachers that were teaching evolution as if it were a fact. I realized then that our children are in a war and they need to be armed with truth on a level that went beyond the students in my own classroom. This led me to envision a program that would do just that and arm students with the Father’s provable truth of creation so that it could be used as a weapon to cut through the lies of this world that are set against eliminating the Father and the son from the hearts and minds of our children.
Q: What is the ‘standard’ that this new teaching environment aspires to achieve?
Our creation standards will use the Father’s provable truth of creation to put the traditional standards to the test. Students will be using real science experiments and observations to create a foundation of truth that will protect them from the lies of this world.
Q: From a theological standpoint, truth must align with the character of Yah. Describe your approach to truth-seeking in the context of The Creation Standard. How will you help your students identify and distinguish fact from fiction or opinion? How will you help them critically assess the quality of information they’re considering to arrive at conclusions?
A big part of the journey with Creation Standard is seeking our Father’s guidance and love as we compile the evidence that supports His provable truth of creation. With this guidance at work, we’ll be putting what is deemed to be worldly facts on display and breaking down why such evidence necessitates fraud and bias.
Q: Your debut course offerings include subjects such as Earth’s Foundation, Firmamental Breakdown, Introduction to Intelligent Design, and Biological Design. In terms of teaching methodology, how do you prevent these classes from becoming indoctrination environments?
When I was a student, the scientific method wasn’t something we used often. We were instead presented with evidence that if true would go against the Bible. Instead of proving all things, we were led to “believe all things.” With Creation Standard, we will be undoing this damage by “proving all things” and letting the truth speak for itself.
Q: Describe how this virtual classroom experience will play out for both students and parents. What learning aids such as books, reading lists, and/or school supplies will be needed for this first semester?
The instruction will be available in both a pre-recorded and live lecture format. This will allow students to work at their own comfortable pace if they can’t join us live. The only essential supplies are of course the Holy Spirit’s guidance, a device to access the online classroom, and materials for documenting the learning experience.
Q: How much Bible knowledge are you expecting from students who enroll? How do you navigate the turbulent waters of ‘doctrine’ stemming from the multitudes of Bible translations available as well as denominational dogma?
I try my best to avoid using language that is for or against certain denominational beliefs. However, this is a major challenge as the students joining us have diverse backgrounds. I will not be able to accommodate all beliefs and backgrounds, but I will lean on my Father’s guidance to accomplish this task in a peaceful way.
Q: By the time this interview is published, classes will have started. Is it too late for parents to enroll their children? Is there a ‘pass/fail’ system in place as a measurement tool for growth?
It’s not too late to join, but the sooner you start, the faster you can get caught up and join the live lectures. The live interactions give students a chance to fellowship with like-minded people and partake in the fun review games that follow most lectures. There will not be penalties for missing work and most assessments are self-graded and will show students mastery upon completion. For other labs and activities, I will do my best to comment on and give grades based on completion.
Q: What is the enrollment deadline?
The course will last 10 months, but if you start late, you can finish later as well and refer back to previous lessons at any time.
Q: Any final words?
If there is anyone considering Creation Standard but doesn’t have the ability to do so due to financial reasons, please reach out to us so that we can help you start this journey. You can send us an email to: thecreationstandard@gmail.com and my wife will provide the guidance needed to get started.
Benjamin Franklin famously said, “Hide not your talents. They for use were made. What’s a sundial in the shade?” This analogy can also be applied spiritually, emphasizing that unused talents are of no benefit to the advancement of Yah’s Kingdom when kept hidden.
Enter Josh Boltinhouse. This talented brother in the faith is a commercial architect, who transformed his curiosity about Yah’s design of Creation into something extraordinary: miniature wooden models of the Circle of the Earth. (Isaiah 40:22, Genesis 1:6-8)
Yah often presents us with ministry opportunities that align with our unique gifts and interests. Unfortunately, many of us overlook these divine appointments, believing we lack the qualifications or talents to pursue them. However, using our abilities to bless others is the Father’s desire for His people.
While watching one of Ken Heidbrecht’s teaching videos on his YouTube channel, I came across Josh’s handiwork: a beautifully designed flat earth model, resplendent with flashing LED lights, proudly displayed on Ken’s coffee table.
As a proponent of biblical cosmology, I was keen to delve deeper. So I contacted Josh to explore his faith journey and discover what inspired him to design and create the Circle of the Earth Wood Models.
Hi Josh. Let’s begin with your testimony and how your faith journey led to this project.
My testimony is about as boring as they come. I’ve grown up in and have lived in South Carolina my entire life. I’ve been Southern Baptist my whole life. But honestly, I would have had to describe myself as lukewarm. I was living a “good” life, was doing all the “right” things, etc. But I wasn’t particularly excited about my faith. It was just what I had always done and believed. Before the past couple of years, I hadn’t really ever questioned much of anything about it.
What motivated you – a commercial architect by profession – to investigate the architecture of Yah’s Creation? What was the catalyst?
Once Covid hit in 2020, I fell into what seemed like a never-ending series of rabbit holes that ended up with me questioning a lot of what I thought to be true. With the farce of the “pandemic” and all governments worldwide walking lock-step in agreement on how to handle it, it opened up my eyes to the fact that everyone, especially those in power, could be “in on it,” whatever the “it” de jour happened to be. Watching the aftermath of the 2020 presidential election and how little any of it made sense and saw just how openly the media would twist facts and outright lie, I was opened up to the reality that it’s called “political theatre” for a reason. It is all a show. Realizing that the public could be lied to on a massive scale opened me up to all sorts of truths.
I had always been fascinated with space and especially the “sci-fi” genre of television shows and movies. I grew up loving Star Trek: Next Generation. When reading the comments on random articles that dealt with space, I would see the occasional person post something about the Earth being “flat.” I would pass it off as someone being funny or just trying to be stupid for attention. I finally came across a comment where someone posted a link to the Ewaranon series “What on Earth Happened.” I watched all of those videos. And then sought out some more.
Educate Your Child Using The Creation Standard
Josh Keefe of Founded Earth Brothers has developed interactive science classes that help the Father’s word come alive for young minds. Check out the interview.
Finally, when I saw a video of a guy on a beach in California filming oil rigs 7 and 9 miles off the coast and then showing how the curvature math didn’t work, I was sold on the idea of “flat earth.” Then I went and reread a lot of passages in the Bible (and discovered several I didn’t know about like Joshua 10), that confirmed this cosmology. It really only took me about a week of researching to cross over to believing in Biblical Cosmology. What I’ve realized with all truth, it makes things so much simpler. For starters, I now know where God and heaven are (right above us). How did they fit the moon buggy on the lunar lander? (it never happened) How did 2 planes bring down 3 buildings? (it was controlled demolition) Why did God make an infinite amount of nothing? (He didn’t, we’re the center of everything)
What inspired you to build these Circle of the Earth models? Are they meant to be tools for homeschoolers, conversation starters, or something else?
It’s all for the kids! In 2022, once I had confirmed and understood Biblical Cosmology, I started looking for something to get for my two kids who were 7 and 9 at the time that reflected the nature of our realm. We had a 3D puzzle globe that hung out in my daughter’s room, but that just made me angry every time I looked at it. My search online for a model that reflected a proper cosmology turned up nothing but cheap-looking snow globes that contained a printed Gleason map on the inside. So, I started imagining what a model could start to look like and I knew that I wanted it to be from a Biblical perspective. As the idea of the model started evolving in my mind, I identified many verses that supported the shape of our realm.
What information did you rely on as your blueprint in designing this model? The Genesis account uses the word ‘firmament’ with the word ‘heaven’ but says very little about the behaviors of the moon and sun. What was your source(s) of information when creating your designs?
The model is created from the Bible. I used Gleason’s map as the basis for the land and sea. I searched out old maps for some artwork to include on the box. Key verses that I included on the model are : 1 Chronicles 16:30, Psalm 96:10, Job 38:3-6, Job 38:14, Psalm 104:5, Proverbs 8:27-30, Genesis 1:6-8, Amos 9:6, Psalm 19:1.
The paths of the sun and moon are taken from the Book of Enoch Chapter 72. The idea came because it allowed me to show how the sun and moon circle over the plane of the earth. The different gates gave a way for people to adjust the location of the sun and moon between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. While it would have been cool to include the “seven heavens” in the model, the material constraints limited how I was able to represent the firmament.
Many believers in the heliocentric globe earth model bristle at the mention of biblical cosmology or ‘flat earth’, saying it is not a salvation issue. Have you encountered this as a rebuttal when trying to explain your views on biblical cosmology? Have you lost friends over your position?
Truth is truth. If the enemy can get you to doubt page one of your Bible, then he has established a foundation to build lies to hide other truths from you. When I first found out about biblical cosmology, I would drop some hints on Facebook that would make a critical thinker question what was being stated. I’ve talked to a few people about it when I felt the door was opened. I’ve debated a few friends about it. But I haven’t lost any friends from talking about it.
Being overly dogmatic about any issue isn’t ever really helpful. It’s also not my job to convince anyone of anything. I point out that there may be other ways to think about certain topics, but I don’t feel I need to go scream it from the rooftops. I’ve had a couple of people respond with the “it’s not a salvation issue.” But I feel that there is a lot more power in prayer when you actually know where to direct them versus just scattering them out to the aether, hoping they float to the right spot.
What materials did you use to construct these models? I love that you added a creative flair – LED lighting to one of the three designs.
Circle of the Earth Model
Circle of the Earth Model
The models are made of a simple 1/8” birch plywood for the box and firmament pieces and a 3mm acrylic for the maps and sun and moon circuit disk.
If a believer in Messiah is ‘on the fence’ regarding biblical cosmology vs the heliocentric globe model that the culture constantly reinforces, what would you suggest they do to investigate the truth of Yah’s creation?
If a believer is on the fence, I would tell them to just accept the fact that they have been deceived and lied to by the enemy to hide God from them and make him seem far away and to make you seem insignificant. If you can’t trust page one of your Bible, why do you believe any of it? Save all the mental gymnastics for the Olympics and trust what Genesis tells you about creation.
If you believe God flooded the earth in the days of Noah, just ask yourself where did the extra water come from? It came from the “waters above” and the foundations of the deep. Yahuah is not the author of confusion. His creation is very simple and easy to understand. The enemy over hundreds of years has made it complicated and confusing. Go walk outside and close your eyes. Then ask yourself “Do I feel like I am spinning faster than the speed of sound.” Trust the senses Yahuah gave you.
How can one order one of your creation models? Do you handle international orders?
Anyone interested in ordering a model can go to the website I created for them, www.yahscreation.com. I can ship internationally, but I ask that anyone outside of the United States email me at josh.boltinhouse@gmail.com with their address so that I can come up with a custom shipping quote.
One of my favorite passages in the Bible is found in the Beatitudes.1 In the fifth chapter of Matthew’s gospel, Yahusha teaches critical topics, presenting foundational principles of discipleship. He mentors his followers on how to respond righteously toward others and navigate the world when faced with various situations. This article explores the relevance of these principles in today’s fallen world and their enduring significance as we approach the end times.
In Matthew 5:10-20, Yahusha describes the nature and behavior of true disciples. He warns that this faith walk will not be a cakewalk.2 He tells His followers to expect persecution from the world because of their light and ‘saltiness’.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything but is thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (NRSV) Matthew 5:10-20
The Believer’s Response to Persecution
Matthew 5:10-11 delivers an essential message to disciples about the unavoidable reality that all believers will encounter: persecution. Yet, the result of such persecution is that you will be blessed.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. (NRSV)
The Greek word for blessed used here is markarios,3 an adjective that is defined as blessed or happy. A more poetic expression of the Greek root word makar, elevates its meaning as to be supremely blessed, happy, or fortunate. The other keyword in the passage is dioko,4 which means to be made to run or flee, driven away, be harassed, troubled, and mistreated.
So, how does being mistreated, harassed, and driven away make a person feel happy, fortunate, and supremely blessed? Our natural inclination is not to feel happiness in response to persecution. But how does experiencing persecution for the sake of righteousness contrast with the Hebraic usage of the word “blessed?”
The answer may be found by taking a look at Deuteronomy chapter 28’s usage of the word blessed, which is barak.5 Barak is a primitive root meaning to kneel, and by implication to bless God (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit), or to praise, salute, or curse.
For the Hebrew disciples, the concept of “blessing” was closely linked to enduring persecution while living righteously in obedience to Yahusha’s teachings. They might perceive it like this: when persecuted for upholding the Torah and the testimony of Yahusha HaMashiach, the entire experience felt like being in the presence of Yahuah the Father—kneeling, saluting, blessing, and adoring Him. In their spirit, they recognized the grace, love, and mercy the Father bestowed upon them. This understanding served as a reminder and affirmation that they were on the right path, the narrow way leading to the Kingdom of Heaven.
With this in mind, it makes more sense that a disciple’s reaction to such persecution would result in actual happiness and the feeling of being blessed, as the Greek concept of the word blessed implies.
And they heeded his advice, and having called for the emissaries, beating them, they commanded that they should not speak in the Name of יהושע, and let them go. Then indeed they went rejoicing from the presence of the council, because they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His Name. And daily in the Set-apart Place, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and bringing the Good News: יהושע the Messiah! Acts 5:40-42 (TS2009).
Verse 40 indicates that they were rejoicing that this persecution took place and that they were counted worthy to suffer for the name of the Messiah. Also, we see that regardless of the threat of harm, they never stopped teaching the testimony of Yahusha Messiah. We see many other accounts of persecution throughout Scripture, such as Stephens’s martyrdom in Acts 7, James’ murder by King Herod Agrippa in Acts 12, Paul and Silas being beaten and thrown into prison in Acts 16, Paul’s accounts of persecution in 2 Corinthians 11, and of course the persecution of Yahusha himself as detailed in the synoptic gospels.
So what we can clearly see from the death of Yahusha, Stephen, and others is their attitude and example of spiritual maturity. Their response to the harshest persecution imaginable, being murdered, was a desire in their heart for the Father to forgive the persecutors, for they did not know what they were doing. The hope of repentance and redemption still remains even for them.
This is the heart of our Messiah Yahusha, and I pray he gives us all the same heart. I love the example shown in Acts 2:14-41 following the miracle of the Holy Spirit granting tongues of different languages to share the gospel message. In verse 37, after hearing Peter’s explanation of Scripture and the testimony of Messiah, these people were pierced to the heart. Realizing now that they had participated in the persecution and murder of Messiah, they ask Peter, “What shall we do”? To which Peter replies in verse 28, “Repent, and let each one of you is immersed (mikvah) in the Name of Yahusha Messiah for the forgiveness of sins. And you shall receive the gift of the Set-apart Spirit.”
Our Behavior Is Our Witness
Sharing our faith with those who do not believe in the Bible, Yahuah the Creator, or Yahusha, His Son, and treating them with kindness and respect, is undoubtedly a crucial aspect of our responsibilities as believers.
But how can they call on Him they have not believed in? And how can they believe without hearing about Him? And how can they hear without a preacher? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those who announce the gospel of good things! Romans 10:14 HCSB)
The verse clearly asks, how can the lost believe in Yahuah, his Torah, and the redemption available to them through Yahusha Messiah if they never hear about them? Many believers in the United States take it for granted that most people have at least heard of the Bible, but according to a 2021 Statista survey[a], 29% of Americans have never even read the Bible. The same study also points out that only 11% of Americans read their Bible daily. That, of course, means the remaining 60% are somewhere in between.
Romans chapters 10 and 11 focus on Israel’s rejection of Yah’s ways and the Messiah, yet conclude with a hopeful reminder that it is not too late for them to return to Yahuah; they can still be grafted back into Yah’s kingdom.
Brothers and sisters, if these figures tell us anything, it is that most of the people in America are either lost or are being pulled further away from the principles and laws taught in the Bible. It’s no wonder that we are witnessing lawlessness abound in America. Unjust or perverse “laws” continue to be instituted, which are contrary to Scripture and the Torah. This is because 89% of them don’t read, study, or understand the Creator’s words or commands. And to no surprise of the believer, we all clearly see these people continuing to descend in wickedness. 2 Peter 3:9 says,
“יהוה is not slow in regard to the promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward us, not wishing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” (TS2009)
Therefore, we should never give up on witnessing to the lost because the reality is that many of these men and women are victims of deceit from both the evil one and wicked people. We must remember that as Paul states in 1 Timothy 1:9-11:
But we know that the law is good, provided one uses it legitimately. We know that the law is not meant for a righteous person, but for the lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinful, for the unholy and irreverent, for those who kill their fathers and mothers, for murderers, for the sexually immoral and homosexuals, for kidnappers, liars, perjurers, and for whatever else is contrary to the sound teaching.
Mark 16:15 also tells us to “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” (ESV)
Additionally, Yahuah instructs Jeremiah 1:7-8 in this way:
Then the Lord said to me: Do not say, “I am only a youth,” for you will go to everyone I send you to and speak whatever I tell you. Do not be afraid of anyone, for I will be with you to deliver you. This is the Lord’s declaration. (HCSB)
This instruction is just as valid for believers today. We must never stop reaching out to the lost or trying to teach them the difference between righteousness and wickedness because this is indeed a Gospel Worth Dying For. If it means that just one more soul is led to salvation in Yahusha messiah, the truth of Yahuah’s ways, then it is worth it.
There is also the matter of how Scripture teaches us to treat people. Matthew 5:16 reads,
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (ESV)
Likewise, we are urged in Luke 6 and Matthew 5 to love our enemies, do good to them, and pray for them. This doesn’t mean we yoke ourselves with evil people because Proverbs 4 warns us to stay away from the path of the wicked. But inevitably, we do interact with the world in our daily lives. When we do we must remember Romans 12:4, 1 Peter 3:9, and follow the directives given in Proverbs 24:17-18…
Don’t gloat when your enemy falls, and don’t let your heart rejoice when he stumbles, or the Lord will see, be displeased, and turn His wrath away from him.
We must remember that vengeance is Yahuah’s6. Yah will contend with the darkness, evil, and the wicked in His timing. We as believers need to remain focused on Messiah Yahusha’s instructions to let the light of our redeemed life shine before mankind.
Consider it this way: the world of the lost is like a ship caught in a violent storm, surrounded by darkness, wind, rain, hail, and lightning. The people are adrift at sea, tossed by the turbulent waves. Their only hope is the guiding light of a lighthouse, which can lead them safely back to shore, allowing them to stand on solid ground. Yet, the storm also batters the lighthouse itself, subjecting it to the relentless assault of rain, hail, wind, and lightning. Despite this, the lighthouse must remain steadfast, enduring the storm’s fury to provide a beacon of hope.
Praise Yahuah that the lighthouse is maintained by the most capable keeper imaginable, the Ruach Hakodesh, and its light reflects the goodness and safety found in Yahusha Messiah. Our role is to endure the challenges because we cherish the light within us. Our heart’s desire should align with the light’s aim: to guide those lost at sea to safety so they can walk in the light again. However, those adrift must choose to seek the light and steer their course toward it once they see it. While Yah will assist them on their journey, the choice remains theirs.
Navigating Disagreements with Grace and Respect
Last but not least, it is essential to consider how we treat fellow believers who may disagree with our interpretation of Scripture. If you have stuck with reading this article thus far, I would encourage you to read through my article Patience Rooted in Love. In it, I outline how Yah’s word guides us on how to show love and patience toward one another in circumstances of differing scriptural understanding.
Brother Matthew Janzen once stated, “We are in the same school, but we are not all in the same grade.” I like this statement because it reminds us that we are all in this together; we are all still learning, but we are not all at the same point in our studies or understanding.
I would also add that we should be reminded to remain humble because this school, the School of Torah Keeping and Belief in Yahusha Messiah, doesn’t end at grade 12. We continue to be students our entire lives, so we must remain diligent, humble, and kind throughout this walk.
Reverend John Watson (1850-1907) once said, “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” This walk is challenging for all of us at times. When we are at our lowest points, we often need someone to reach out and pick us up. Likewise, we should be ready to lift others up at their low points.
As Galatians 6:2 points out, we are to “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11 reminds us, “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”
You might be asking yourself, but what about mainstream Christians who reject Yahuah’s commandments and believe all of the Law is done away with? That attitude would fall into one of the categories discussed in this article. Hopefully, they are in the same school – the school of Yahuah – and they are only in a lower grade and responding as a youthful, immature student often does when challenged with information that is contrary to their current understanding.
Or, they may fall into the category of the ‘world’ – participating in deception and joining in on the persecution of Yah’s people. Of which I sincerely hope they are not, but as we can see from Scripture, many of them are. Nonetheless, their negative response to our obedience to Torah observance should not sway us because either way, we must continue to be the light and flavorful salt of the earth. We must continue being kind, loving, and building one another up.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I pray that it has blessed you and challenged you to delve deeper into Yahuah’s word, draw closer to him, and act daily as the representatives of Messiah Yahusha that we are all called to be.
FOOTNOTES
1 In the context of Matthew 5:3–12, the word beatitude means a specific declaration of blessedness, and these declarations and promises are often found in the Psalms of the Old Testament.
2 A cakewalk is an absurdly or surprisingly easy task.
3 Strong’s #G3107
4 Strong’s #G1377
5 Strong’s #H1288
6 Deuteronomy 32:25, Romans 12:19, Hebrews 10:30, and Psalm 94:1
[a] Bible readership in the U.S. 2021 | Statista.com
Flawed doctrine can obscure the truth, cloud our judgment, lead us astray in life, and misrepresent Yah’s intentions. This was my experience during the thirty years I spent in church pews. Well-meaning evangelical pastors taught me that the Torah1 was solely for the Jews and that Yeshua rendered the Old Testament laws obsolete. Consequently, I missed important Gospel truths that were right in front of me.
It’s ironic that those who resist the Law (the Torah) wholeheartedly embrace Psalm 1, which emphasizes the Law’s importance in guiding us toward righteousness. This six-verse Psalm2 is rich with wisdom and directly challenges that notion. Let’s examine this important Psalm verse by verse.
Blessed is the man that does not walk in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful. Psalm 1:1
The Hebrew word for “blessed” used here is esher, often employed as an interjection. It conveys a sense of blessedness or happiness, and the Psalmist intends for us to perceive it with emphasis, as if exclaiming, “Oh, the happiness of the man!” This profound happiness is attainable only by steering clear of the counsel of the wicked, the sinful, and those who are divisive and contemptuous.
Wicked and sinful people are those who have rejected the paths of righteousness contained in Yah’s commandments. According to Psalm 10:3-13, characteristics of the wicked include prideful boasting, cursing, lying, bitterness, mistreatment of the poor, and disrespect for the Almighty and His Son Yeshua. This could describe many politicians, athletes, and entertainers.
The ungodly tend to be restless, never satisfied with their lives, and are constantly instigating trouble. (Proverbs 6:12-14) They are like a rolling sea that stirs up mire and dirt. (Isaiah 57: 20-21) The book of Romans adds these descriptions to the list:
And even as they did not like to retain Elohim in their knowledge, Elohim gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of Elohim, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of Elohim, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them. Romans 1:28-32
We should be mindful of whom we associate with, as their behavior can be contagious. Verse 2 highlights why our strongest defense against negative influence is the Torah of Yah.
But his delight is in the Torah of YHWH, And in His Torah, he meditates day and night.
As we go through our day and encounter various situations, we can be confident that the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) will help us recall Scripture that applies to the exact circumstances we’re facing. This is why it is important to hide Yah’s word in our hearts. (Psalm 119:11)
He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper. Psalm 1:3
Verse 3 assures us that when we take delight in Yah’s instructions (the Torah), we will thrive. Just as a well-watered tree remains healthy and fruitful, so too will we flourish. A similar message is conveyed in the instructions given to Joshua as he prepared to enter the Promised Land after Moses’ death.
This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written: for then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall have good success. Joshua 1:8
Joshua’s character and training qualified him to become Israel’s next leader. He benefitted from a proper foundation in the Torah and from spending time in Moses’ tent under his tutelage. Through fidelity and perseverance, Joshua was up for the challenge, but success was not guaranteed. He was reminded to continue in the practices that brought him to this point: “observing to do according to all that was written in the Book of the Law.” Obedience to Yah’s commands was the only legitimate path to his and the nation’s prosperity.
Putting the Law/Torah In Its Proper Context
In the First Covenant (Old Testament) a person’s righteousness was often measured by their adherence to the Law. However, Abraham was considered righteous because of his faith AND submission to the requirements of the Torah through his covenant with the Most High. (Genesis 15:6)
The accepted understanding of covenant is an agreement between two parties who bind themselves to do – or not to do – certain things.
According to the Biblical Illustrator:
God’s covenant begins and ends with Himself. It comes to us only through His grace and mercy. The power to fulfill its conditions, on man’s part, comes through the same grace received into the heart by faith. From this example of Abram several lessons respecting faith are taught. We learn that –
The sinner’s first duty is to believe what God has spoken.
The foundation of faith is God’s promise.
Obedience is an essential element in faith.
Faith is the soul’s simplest act, and also its mightiest energy.
Faith’s highest conquests are not at first.
The only way to believe what Elohim has spoken is to know what He has said. Yeshua knew and always obeyed his Father. We are required to know too. How? By reading the whole of the Scriptures – not just the Renewed Covenant (New Testament). The Torah (instructions), Writings, and Prophets are all meant to guide us along this perilous path to ultimate salvation through Yeshua.
As we disciple under Yeshua by obeying Scripture the way of righteousness is made crystal clear. We don’t have to follow every commandment listed in the Torah because not all will apply to every individual. There are rules for married men, single women, parents, land owners, etc. Also, without the Torah, concepts like ‘love’ or ‘faith’ cannot be defined with any degree of accuracy. Without the Torah, we would also fail to understand the guidelines for a healthy marriage or even how to properly worship the Most High.
In the First Covenant (Old Testament), love is often defined through actions and commitments rather than just emotions. Key aspects include:
Covenantal Love: Love is seen as a steadfast commitment, exemplified in God’s covenant with Israel. This is often described using the Hebrew word “hesed,” which conveys loyalty, faithfulness, and loving-kindness (e.g., Exodus 34:6-7).
Love for Elohim: Deuteronomy 6:5 commands, “Love the Yahuah your Elohim with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” This indicates a comprehensive devotion to the Most High.
Love for Others: Leviticus 19:18 instructs, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” emphasizing love as an ethical obligation towards others.
Overall, love in the Old Testament is deeply connected to obedience, faithfulness, and ethical behavior.
When the Apostle Paul ministered to the Gentiles, he emphasized the value and purpose of the Law. His teachings clarified that righteousness and salvation come through faith in Yeshua, not through the Law itself. However, the Law is a measuring stick that helps us understand behavior that is pleasing to the Almighty.
How the Enemy Blinds Us To Torah Obedience
Many people live in denial, avoiding the truth about various matters due to fear. Some resist acknowledging truths that challenge their established beliefs because they dislike being wrong. In reality, the Law is good and not burdensome, contrary to what some might teach. Those who take pride in following the Ten Commandments3 understand that honoring our Heavenly Father, respecting our parents, observing a Sabbath rest, honoring marriage vows, and refraining from stealing are inherently good. The guidelines our Father sets for our behavior are designed to bless us.
When we abrogate our duty to study the Torah and obey its instructions for life, we fall into the enemy’s trap. Our enemy has convinced us that we are incapable of comprehending what is written. But we can because all born-again believers in Messiah have been given the Ruach to guide us to all truth.
We have to be trained in righteousness. This happens through prayer, study, obedience, and faith in Yah’s promises. The Bereans knew this. So did those in Thessalonica who were encouraged by Paul the Apostle, Silas, and Timothy to test everything and everyone against Scripture.
Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5: 14-19
It must be said at this point that Paul did indeed respect the Law and his Hebrew heritage, and he often emphasized the value and purpose of the Law. His teachings stressed that righteousness and salvation come through faith in Yeshua, not through the Law itself. Paul’s approach was to uphold the moral and ethical teachings of the Law while emphasizing that certain ceremonial and ritualistic aspects were not necessary for Gentile believers.
Paul recognized that the Torah serves as a crucial standard for understanding what constitutes ‘righteous’ behavior. The absence of obedience to the Law is evident in the actions of those who disregard its instructions.
The actions and destiny of the wicked, the lawless, and the unrepentant are made clear in the remaining verses of this Psalm.
The ungodly are not so, But are like the chaff which the wind drives away.Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For Yahuah knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly shall perish. Psalm 1: 4-6
The Bible mentions the goodness of the Law in several places. In the New Testament, Romans 7:12 states, “So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous, and good.” In the First Covenant (Old Testament), Psalm 19:7-8 praises the Law, saying, “The law of YHWH is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of YHWH are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of YHWH are right, giving joy to the heart.”
Let us let Yeshua have the final word on the matter.
Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Matthew 5: 17-18
Reread Psalm 1. Then ask the Ruach to help you understand why Torah instructions matter to all faith-filled believers who have put their trust in Yeshua for their salvation.
FOOTNOTES
1 Torah: law, direction, or instruction; a body of directives for living. (#H8451)
2 The Hebrew word for “Psalm” is “מִזְמוֹר” (mizmor), which generally means “a song” or “a melody.” In the context of the biblical Book of Psalms, it refers to a sacred song or hymn.
3 The Ten Commandments are listed in two places in the Bible: Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:4-21
The term ‘crescendo’ is well-known among musicians, signifying the way music intensifies by building upon preceding notes to reach a peak of intensity. Crescendo can also be evidenced in a person’s life. Legendary leadership expert Stephen R. Covey explains1 how this works.
When a piece of music reaches a crescendo, it does not just get louder. The sense of growing, intensifying, and expanding in a composition or performance results from an expressive mix of rhythm, harmony, and melody…Living your Life in Crescendo means continually growing in contribution, learning, and influence. The mindset that ‘your most important work is always ahead of you’ is an optimistic, forward-thinking mentality that teaches you can always contribute regardless of what’s happened to you or what stage you are in.
The Creator’s appointed times are more than mere religious rituals; their meaning and significance grow and intensify over time. These feast days act as signposts, guiding us through the journey of personal sanctification toward the ultimate goal of becoming a community of fully redeemed individuals who inherit the Kingdom of Heaven.
As the master composer and conductor of a believer’s life journey, YHWH orchestrates our experiences to reach a crescendo of purpose and fulfillment. A beautiful illustration of this can be found in the way His appointed times and feast days are ordered.
The Overture of the Weekly Sabbath
The development process of each believer begins with small steps. As a musical overture is an introduction to something more substantial, so is the mandate to take a weekly rest day – the Sabbath.
For six days you shall do your work, but on the seventh day is the Sabbath; a day of rest and a holy gathering dedicated to YHWH. You shall not do any work; it is a Sabbath to YHWH wherever you live. Leviticus 23:3
An example of Yah’s creation rest, the seventh day is set apart as the sign of the covenant between Eloah (God) and his people. As such it teaches us the foundational principles of worship and reverence. It is also symbolic of how Yeshua provides rest for our souls.
Come to me, all you that are weary and carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30
Passover, Unleavened Bread, and Shavuot
Situated between the overture and the coda of a musical piece are the exposition and development sections. In the context of our music composition metaphor, Passover, Unleavened Bread, and Shavuot qualify. These three annual observances focus squarely on the individual’s spiritual growth.
During Passover observances, we learn to trust in Yeshua who redeems us from sin. The Feast of Unleavened Bread highlights the practice and necessity of removing sin from our own lives. Our attention then shifts to Shavuot, which focuses on Yah’s covenant. Our commitment to covenant fidelity entails faithfully upholding the terms of this eternal covenant, emphasizing our duties to Yah and the promises He has given us. (Leviticus 23:4-22)
The Day of Trumpets
The Day of Trumpets marks the next big event on Yah’s appointed times calendar. In Leviticus, Moses informed the children of Yisrael that the first day of the seventh month – Day of Trumpets2 – was to be a Sabbath day of rest, a set-apart convocation, and a memorial of trumpets. It was meant to be a time of reflection and preparation for the upcoming Day of Atonement.
The Hebrew word for trumpet is teruah which generally means a loud noise or shout, often associated with the blast of a shofar3. Throughout Hebrew history, the blowing of trumpets has held significant religious, communal, and military importance in ancient Yisrael.
Trumpets were blown to call the people to repentance or signal the start of a new year. (Leviticus 23:24-25) Their blasts facilitated community gatherings for festivals and special events or directed the movement of the camp in the wilderness. (Numbers 10:1-10, 2 Samuel 6:12-15) Trumpets served as battle signals, conveying orders and rallying troops. (Joshua 6:4-20, Numbers 10:9) They were also blown to announce and celebrate the anointing and ascension of a new king. (1 Kings 1:39, 2 Kings 9:13)
One day in the future the blowing of the seventh trumpet will cause a prophetic syncopation4 to occur – one that evokes jubilation and joy for the righteous, but shock and horror for the unrepentant.
Up until now, the day of mercy has existed; and He has been merciful and patient toward all who dwell on the earth. But when the time comes, then the power, the punishment, and the judgment; which Yahuah Tseva’oth has prepared for those who submit to the judgment of righteousness, for those who reject that judgment, and for those who take His name in vain. That day has been prepared as a covenant for the elect and as an inquisition for sinners. 1 Enoch (Chanok) 59:4-6
The seventh trumpet blast will:
Announce the return of Yeshua to establish the Kingdom of Eloah on earth
Set in motion the seven last plagues of judgment
Signal the resurrection and redemption of saints in Sheol
Bring New Jerusalem down to occupy the land promised to Shem/Yisrael
As we prepare for the Autumn Feast days we can’t help but imagine the second most pivotal moment in human history – the first being Yeshua’s first coming. At Yeshua’s second coming the elect will be taken up to New Jerusalem (above) while chaos unfolds on the earth.
Do you think this is the city5 of which I said, “I have engraved you on the palms of My hands”? This building6 now constructed in your midst is not the one revealed to Me, the one prepared from the time I decided to create Paradise and showed it to Adam before he sinned. When he transgressed the commandment, it was taken away from him, along with Paradise. After these things, I showed it to My servant Abraham at night among the portions of the sacrifices. I also showed it to Moses on Mount Sinai when I revealed to him the design of the Tabernacle and all its furnishings. And now, behold, it is preserved with Me, just like Paradise. Therefore, go and do as I command you. 2 Baruch 4:2-7
This ‘last trump’ will also mark the beginning of the third ‘woe.’ The Greek word for woe is ouai and can be defined as a deep and inconsolable grief, misery, or calamity.
The Word of our Elohim stands forever (Isaiah 40:8)
During this time angels are tasked with separating the wheat from the chaff. The winepress of Yah’s wrath will destroy many. This unimaginable woe is felt by YHWH as well as those who will experience the brunt of these cataclysmic judgments described by the Apostle.
The Most High wishes for everyone to be saved, yet humanity’s stubbornness and sinful nature often resist the truth of His word. Nevertheless, the righteous will be safeguarded, much like the children of Israel in Goshen during the judgments on Egypt.
Come, my people, enter your chambers and shut your doors behind you; hide yourself for a little while until the fury has passed. For behold the Lord7 is coming out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity. The earth will reveal her blood and will no longer cover her slain. Isaiah 26:20-21
When the Apostle John uses the expression ‘the Day of YHWH’, does he mean a literal 24-hour time period or is he referring to an elongated period of time – maybe weeks or even months – when end-time events play out to a prescribed conclusion?
It seems probable that all of the events leading up to and during this awful time in human history will take longer than a day to be realized. After all, the judgments against Egypt prior to the Exodus took months to complete. (Exodus 7-15)
Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles & The Addition
As we near the coda of this end time composition, the remaining Fall Feast days come to the forefront. The Day of Atonement, coming ten days after Trumpets marks a time of somber reflection.
The Feast of Tabernacles/Sukkot is all about family. We will finally see our Father and our King face-to-face and behold their glory. Our roles as kings and priests will focus on teaching righteousness to those who survived the great tribulation and were spared in the sheep and goats judgment.
The eight-day Addition at the end of Sukkot will be a time of never-ending joy and righteousness. We will dwell in eternal bliss, clothed in our new bodies, never to sin again. Shouts of HalleluYah will take on a whole new meaning.
The Great Pivot
The Feast of Trumpets is a significant turning point, marking a shift in focus. It encourages reflection on the Spring feast observances of Passover, Unleavened Bread, and Shavuot, where Yah ministered to believers individually. As Autumn unfolds after Trumpets, His attention transitions to larger groups, highlighting a communal dynamic.
This concluding chapter or coda in Yah’s magnificent composition of love and redemption serves as a testament to the Creator’s patience and mercy toward us, His children.
Footnotes
1 Covey, Stephen R., and Cynthia Covey Haller. Live Life in Crescendo: Your Most Important Work is Always Ahead, Simon & Schuster, 2022.
2 Leviticus 23:24
3 A ram’s-horn trumpet used by ancient Hebrews. On the Hebrew calendar during Moses’ day, the civil year and the ecclesiastical year began at different times. The civil year started with the Feast of Trumpets, (or Yom Teruah) in autumn, marking the beginning of the agricultural and fiscal year. The ecclesiastical year, on the other hand, began in spring with the month of Abib, marked by Passover, and was primarily concerned with religious festivals and observances.
4 In music, syncopation refers to the use of various rhythms played simultaneously to create an off-beat effect in a piece. Essentially, syncopation involves disrupting the regular flow of rhythm by placing stresses or accents in unexpected places.
5 Jerusalem (earthly)
6 The Temple in Jerusalem
7 In many Bible translations, “LORD” (in all capital letters) typically represents the Tetragrammaton, YHWH (יהוה), the personal name of God in Hebrew. It emphasizes His covenant relationship with Israel. “Lord” (with only the first letter capitalized) usually refers to a title of respect or authority, often used for Yeshua (ישוע).
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