The Messianic Torah Observer

In this 6th installment in our Melchizedek series, we discuss the concept of a royal priesthood as originally intended by Yah in Exodus 19. We focus on the importance of obedience to Yah's covenant for the establishment of this priesthood as well as we cover: Yah's Intent for a Priesthood: Yah intended for a royal priesthood among His people, as stated in Exodus 19, where He called Israel to be a kingdom of priests.   Melchizedek's Role: The figure of Melchizedek represents a royal priest, combining the roles of king and priest, predating the Levitical priesthood. Levitical Priesthood Establishment: The Levitical priesthood was established after Israel broke the covenant by worshiping the Golden Calf, restricting priestly duties to the tribe of Levi.   Covenant with Yah: The covenant was ratified at Mount Sinai, where Israel accepted Yah's terms, which included becoming a set-apart nation if they obeyed His laws.   Golden Calf Incident: The Golden Calf incident illustrates Israel's failure to remain faithful to Yah, leading to the establishment of the Levitical priesthood as a response to their unfaithfulness.   Yah's Expectations: Yah requires His people to guard His covenant to achieve the royal priesthood status; without obedience, this status cannot be realized.   Priestly Functions: The document discusses the priestly functions of educating others in Yah's Torah and modeling righteous behavior, which are central to fulfilling the role of a priest. Future Fulfillment: The original vision for a royal priesthood will ultimately be fulfilled through the ministry of Yeshua, who represents the Melchizedekian priesthood.  

Show Notes: Did John Baptize Yeshua into the Melchizedekian Priestly Order-Part 5 of our Melchizedek Series   Episode Title: Did John Baptize Yeshua into the Melchizedekian Priestly Order-Part 5 of our Melchizedek Series   Episode Description: In this episode, we explore the intriguing question of whether John the Baptist baptized Yeshua into the Melchizedekian Priestly Order. Join us as we delve into historical, theological, and scriptural insights to uncover the significance of this event. This is Part 5 of our Melchizedek Series, where we continue to examine the profound implications of the Melchizedekian Order in religious history.   Key Topics Covered:   The role of John the Baptist in Yeshua's baptism Historical context of the Melchizedekian Priestly Order Theological implications of Yeshua's baptism into the Melchizedekian Order Scriptural evidence supporting the Melchizedekian baptism Insights from scholars and theologians on the Melchizedekian Order   Episode Highlights:   Detailed analysis of the historical background of John the Baptist and Yeshua Examination of theological perspectives on the Melchizedekian Order Scriptural references and interpretations related to Yeshua's baptism Expert opinions and scholarly discussions on the topic

Title: Biblical Principles for Worship Today   Episode Summary: In this episode, we delve into the essential principles of true worship according to Yehovah. We explore the transition from the Original Covenant to the Renewed Covenant and how worship has evolved from physical to spiritual. We discuss the teachings of Yeshua and the importance of renewing our minds, guarding our souls, and obeying Yehovah's instructions.   Key Points:   Renewing Our Minds: Focus on Yehovah's kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Guarding Our Souls: Be mindful of what we take into ourselves, including food, entertainment, relationships, and reading material. Listening to Yehovah: Be quick to hear His voice and slow to respond or speak. Maintaining Joy: Don't let anyone steal your joy . Continuous Prayer: Pray without ceasing and do not grow weary of doing good. Obedience: Incorporate Yehovah's and Yeshua's instructions into our daily walk.   Conclusion: True worship involves a holy and righteous lifestyle that aligns with Yehovah's teachings. Yeshua's teachings emphasize the importance of spirit and truth worship, transitioning from physical practices to spiritual devotion.   Call to Action: Encouragement to keep on in the faith walk, focusing on the high calling in Messiah and maintaining a Godly attitude. Worship the Father in Spirit and Truth.    Closing Remarks: May you have a blessed Shabbat and an overcoming rest of your week in Yeshua's matchless Name. Until next time, Shalom, shalom.

Show Notes: True Biblical Worship According to the Original Covenant - Part 1   Episode Title: True Biblical Worship According to the Original Covenant - Part 1   Host: Rod Thomas   Date: April 19, 2025   Description: In this episode of the Messianic Torah Observer, Rod Thomas delves into the profound teachings on true biblical worship according to the original covenant. Recorded on a rainy but warm Shabbat morning in DFW, Rod shares insights from a recent Google-Meet study delivered to Torah-honoring brethren in Nairobi, Kenya. This teaching explores the significance of worship in the Messianic Torah Observer lifestyle, including the Feast of Unleavened Bread and the Day of Firstfruits.   Key Points:   Introduction to the topic of true biblical worship and its importance in the Messianic Torah Observer lifestyle1. Examination of traditional understandings of worship across various religious practices2. Detailed discussion on the biblical principles of worship, including the Hebrew term "shachah" and its significance3. Insights into the original covenant perspectives on worship, including the physical and actionable forms of worship4. Exploration of the appointed times for worship according to Yah's sacred calendar5. Emphasis on the fear of Yehovah as the basis of true biblical worship6. Closing remarks and preview of Part 2, which will focus on worship from a Yeshua-centric perspective7.   Call to Action: Visit [http://themessianictorahobserver.org](http://themessianictorahobserver.org) for more teachings on Yah's set apart days and other Hebraic topics. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this teaching series, where Rod will explore worship in spirit and truth.   Closing: Rod Thomas wishes listeners a blessed rest of their Shabbat, a meaningful Feast of Unleavened Bread, and a powerfully blessed Day of Firstfruits. Until next time, Shalom, shalom.

Audio Only Join Rod Thomas in this enlightening episode of the Messianic Torah Observer as he discusses the significance of the upcoming Spring Feasts, including Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Dive deep into the spiritual implications of these sacred times, exploring the importance of ridding our homes of leaven and embracing the symbolism of matzah. Rod also shares a powerful teaching titled "Waking Up from Our Slumber: The Feast of Tabernacles and Our Kingdom Readiness," originally delivered to a Kenyan assembly. This teaching emphasizes the urgency for believers to awaken spiritually and fulfill their divine purpose. Tune in for a meaningful exploration of faith, community, and the call to action in our walk with Yeshua.   Website: themessianictorahobserver.org     1. Introduction to the Spring Feasts 2. Significance of Passover and Unleavened Bread 3. Teaching: Waking Up from Our Slumber 4. Spiritual Complacency and Its Dangers 5. Fulfilling Our Purpose in Yeshua 6. Conclusion and Call to Action

Explore insightful reflections on Torah Reading 24, focusing on the significance of wells in biblical times, the covenant promises of Yehovah, and the lessons of faith and perseverance from Isaac's journey. Dive into the spiritual and historical context of Genesis 26:12-35 and discover how ancient practices can inspire modern life.   themessianictorahobserver.org    

In this episode of the Messianic Torah Observer Podcast, Rod Thomas discusses the significance of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, and shares his experience delivering a teaching to orphaned students and Sabbath-keeping brethren in Kenya. Rod emphasizes the importance of fasting, self-denial, and afflicting the soul to get God's attention. Tune in for insightful biblical references and a call to action to support the Qumran Family Foundation.

Discover the significance of Shabbat HaChodesh and Biblical Rosh HaShannah in the Messianic Torah Observer. Learn about the sacred calendar, the importance of Aviv 1, and how to prepare for the upcoming Feasts of Yah. Join Rod Thomas in this insightful discussion.   Website: themessianictorahobserver.org        

What did Yeshua mean when He declared to His disciples that He would give them the Keys of the Kingdom of the Heavens? Join me as I explore the biblical meaning behind this illusive but powerful promise. Learn the role that Torah/Commandment-keeping plays in the keys of the Kingdom. And how does it impact you and me today.   Keywords: Yeshua's teachings, keys to the Kingdom, Torah, Commandment-keeping, Kingdom of Heaven, biblical insights, spiritual growth, Messianic Torah Observer, Rod Thomas, DFW, Rosh HaShannah, Purim, Yeshua HaMashiyach, Shimon Kefa, Peter, ekklesia, Kehila, Malchut ha Shamayim, halachah, Gospel of the Kingdom, beatitudes, Kingdom principles, Torah-keeping, spiritual authority, true faith, salvation, redemption, biblical context, spiritual tools, halachic knowledge, Kingdom rules, Messiah, Yeshua's disciples, spiritual leaders, Messianic teachings.

Explore with me the significance of Shabbat Zachor, otherwise known as the Sabbath of Remembrance, and the eternal battle against the spirit of Amalek or Esau that seeks to hinder the will and purpose of Yehovah and destroy God's set apart-people. Discover the lessons from Purim and the importance of remembering Amalek's evil deeds in this insightful discussion.

In this 4th installment of our Melchizedek series,we continue our exploration of the historical and theological aspects of the Melchizedekian Priesthood. We examine the connections between Shem, Avram, and the Melchizedekian lineage as depicted in the Book of Jasher. Our discussion covers various perspectives on the Melchizedekian Priesthood, including its significance and the roles of key Hebrew patriarchal figures. We also address the controversies and differing views surrounding the identity of Melchizedek and the legitimacy of the Book of Jasher as a historical and sacred source.

Explore with me the theological implications of the Avram-Melchizedek encounter. In this third installment of our Melchizedek series, we discuss how various historical figures and people of faith viewed and understood Avram's Melchizedek and how their insights help us better understand our Melchizedekian Priestly Pedigree. 

Explore the profound journey of faith and devotion in 'Living in Yah's Presence-The Call to Holistic Righteousness.' Discover the significance of walking blamelessly before Yah and embracing His set apart ways for a spiritually holistic life.

Explore with us Yeshua's seeming prohibition against leaders of the Messianic faith, taking on the titles of Rabbi, Teacher, and Father. Are we of the True Faith once Delivered supposed to take Master Yeshua's seeming prohibition against the use of these titles literally? Come. Listen. Study. Meditate. And then you decide.

Explore the profound significance and controversy surrounding the Ineffable Name of Yehovah. Dive into Jewish traditions, interpretations, and the impact on modern faith practices. Uncover the truth behind the sacred names and their misinterpretations.

Dive into the historical, spiritual, and eschatological significance of Melchizedek in this comprehensive series. Discover the ancient context and the eternal priesthood that links to our salvation and covenant relationship with the Almighty.

Dive into the historical and theological exploration of Noahide Laws in this comprehensive analysis. Understand the origins, implications, and controversies surrounding these ancient precepts.

Explore the journey of Avram and the unfolding of Yah's Covenant in this insightful Torah reading. Delve into the significance of faith and obedience as Avram moves from Ur to Canaan, building altars and receiving divine promises. Understand the phases of the Avrahamic Covenant and its impact on humanity.

Explore the origins, development, and implications of the Noahide Laws within Rabbinic Judaism. This paper delves into the historical context, theological debates, and the role of these laws for both Jews and Gentiles.

Discover the Prophetic Journey from Noah to Nations

The Noahic Covenant: Humanity's Path to Redemption Greetings, saints of the Most High. Welcome to another installment of the Messianic Torah Observer. I'm Rod Thomas, coming to you on a beautiful Shabbat in the DFW area. I hope this message finds you and your loved ones well and blessed. Today, we delve into the Noahic Covenant, the second rung on Yehovah's ladder leading to our redemption. This covenant, established after the Great Flood, is foundational to our understanding of redemption and renewal. Our Torah Reading for this week is contained in Genesis 8.15-9.17, with the haftarah reading to be found in Isaiah 42.7-21, and the apostolic in 2 Timothy 2.8-19. I've chosen to entitle this post: “From Flood to Faith—The Enduring Promise of the Noahic Covenant – My Thoughts and Reflections on Torah Reading 7.” Key Concepts: Covenant (Brit): Yehovah's plan to redeem humanity. Renewal: The command to repopulate the Earth and renew the original Edenic/Adamic Covenant. Burnt Offerings: Noah's offerings on a rebuilt altar, leading Yehovah to resolve never to curse the ground or destroy all living creatures again. Yehovah acknowledges humanity's inherent evil but blesses Noah and his sons, reasserting human dominion over creation and lifting the prohibition against consuming animals for food. However, the consumption of blood and murder are strictly prohibited, with severe consequences for violators. The Noahic Covenant is a unilateral covenant, with Yehovah doing the heavy lifting to restore the broken relationship between Him and humanity. This covenant lays the groundwork for humanity to develop a "yetzer tov" (good inclination) and fulfill its purpose as Yehovah's image bearers on Earth. Significance of the Covenant: Unconditional Blessings: Despite humanity's shortcomings, Yehovah honors His covenant promises, symbolized by the rainbow. Foundation for Redemption: The Noahic Covenant is crucial for humanity's full redemption, reaffirming our inherent value as Yehovah's imagers and paving the way for future covenants. In conclusion, the Noahic Covenant is a testament to Yehovah's grace and commitment to humanity's redemption. As we reflect on this covenant, let us strive to overcome our "yetzer ra" (evil inclination) and walk in righteousness, fulfilling our purpose as Yehovah's image bearers. Shabbat Shalom. Faithfully submitted, Rod Thomas, The Messianic Torah Observer https://www.themessianictorahobserver.org/2024/11/16/marring-the-image-of-the-creator-yehovah-through-rebelliousness-thoughts-and-reflections-on-torah-reading-4-2/  

The 9th Rosh Chodesh is upon us. Yet most Messianics/Netsarim are ignorant of the importance of this set apart day, while others simply reject the day because it's not a day that they are interested in keeping. In this post I make the case, based on the Torah Reading for the 9th Rosh Chodesh, for every elect/chosen of Yehovah to observe and keep the Feast of Rosh Chodesh each month.

This week's Torah Reading is the story of the saving of Noah and his family brought about through God keeping covenant and manifesting His righteousness. The spiritual and halachic principles embedded in this Torah Reading Discussion remain evergreen for us today in 2024.

Paul wrote to his young protégé Timothy that the End of Days would be the most perilous of times to have ever struck humanity (2 Tim. 3.1-5). In fact, our Master Yeshua Messiah declared that "just as the days of Noah were, so the coming of the Son of Man will be. We discuss what the world was like in Noah's day and how Noah pleased God/Yah despite him living in such difficult times.

This week's Torah Reading draws our attention to the realities of humanity's rebelliousness against Yehovah and His Ways, and rebelliousness mars the Creator's image in His human creation.

On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, many of the citizens of this nation will take part in the electoral process. For the Messianic/Netsari/Nazarene Israelite, the question they must answer is: Do they take part or not take part in the electoral process of this nation? In this installment of TMTO, we discuss the moral implications of believers taking part in Tuesday's election.

In this installment of TMTO, I give an update on the ministry and share my thoughts and reflections on our recent missionary-Sukkot trip to Kenya.

In this 148th Reading of our 3-Year Long Torah Reading Cycle, we learn of Yah's concern that we will abandon Him and His ways for the worship of Canaanite gods. He instructs Moshe to store His written Torah in the Ark of the Covenant to serve as a witness against our impending idolatry.

In this 142nd Torah Reading discussion, we are taught how to operate in certain domestic relationships that include relating the taking of foreign war brides unto our selves, treatment of the firstborn son in a polygamous relationship, how to properly deal with unredeemable rebellious children, proper treatment of executed criminal remains, and the proper handling of lost property.

In our Torah Reading discussion for this week, we find ourselves having to contemplate and determine the integrity of our covenant relationship with Yehovah. As well as we are moved to make a choice between being loyal to this world and the things of this world, versus being loyal to God and His ways. This is the 141st reading of our 3-year Torah Reading cycle.

In this 140th reading of our 3-year Torah Reading Cycle, the Most High instills in us our responsibility to adhere to the governmental structure He put in place for the Kingdom. Here we learn how the needs of the Levitical Priests were taken care of; the prohibitions against our adopting the religious pagan practices and ways of the nations we were dispossessing; how to discern and treat supposed prophets who claimed to be of God; a reiteration of the establishment of the Cities of Refuge once we settled in the Land of Promise; and the security that comes in knowing that our God will fight for us when we are obediently operating in His Will and Purpose.

In this fourth installment of our True Biblical Baptism series, we explore the next scriptural iteration of water immersion: John the Immerser's (aka John the Baptist's) water immersion. What was the meaning of John's water immersion? How, if at all, did it differ from the Hebrew water immersion of Torah? And how, if at all, does it differ from New Covenant, Messianic/Netsari water immersion that we all have been instructed to engage in as part of our discipleship journey in Yeshua Messiah?

With the Day of Pentecost or Shavuot being just a day away, it seemed good to discuss the immersions of the two Pentecosts or Shavuots. What were these two Shavuots/Pentecosts and how do they relate to immersion? These are the questions we aim to answer in this installment of TMTO.

In this brief installment of the Messianic Torah Observer, I explain why Messianics and our Orthodox Jewish brethren are keeping Pentecost -- Shavuot -- the Feast of Weeks on differing dates. This discussion is not a teaching. It is meant simply to inform and to hopefully dissuade any confusion or questions that Netsarim may have as it relates to when believers will be keeping the Day of Shavuot in 2024. Shavuot: One of the mandated Feasts of the LORD.

In this installment of TMTO, we return to the True Biblical Baptism series I began back in 2022. In this teachings we will examine various aspects of what is popularly referred to in our Messianic Faith communities as the mikveh. From our examination of the mikveh, we will recognize some similarities as well as some dissimilarities to true Messianic water immersion or baptism.   Invitation to Messianic Discipleship: Invitation to Messianic Discipleship-From the Sinner's Prayer to True Messianic Discipleship (themessianictorahobserver.org)

Instead of discussing Torah Reading 133, this Shabbat, I have been led to share with you seven reasons I stand with Israel. This is a controversial topic that few members of our Faith community will engage in. But it remains an elephant in the proverbial room that each of us in our respective walk in Messiah must deal with. I pray that this discussion will lead you to take a stand on the side of Yehovah our Elohim.

In this 132nd reading in our 3-year reading cycle, we come to terms as it relates to our forgetting about God and His ways. Here in Deuteronomy 8, God reveals to us that we cannot live by physical food alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.   themessianictorahobserver.org    

In this discussion on Yeshua's Passover, I explore the controversies surrounding what the Last Supper was and what it was not. We delve into some of the critical teachings Yeshua gave to His disciples during His last meal, as well as we consider what a meaningful Passover/Pesach may look like to us in 2024.

I have chosen to discuss the shadow picture of Yeshua that is embedded in the Passover and how He fulfills the role of our Pesach instead of discussing the elements of Passover and Unleavened Bread for Pesach 2024. In this discussion, we highlight the Torah instruction to select and take unto ourselves a perfect lamb to serve as our Pesach on the 10th Day of the Month of the Aviv and how Yeshua perfectly fulfilled that critical requirement of Passover.

Oh, how wonderful is the Month of the Aviv, for it contains the crucial shadows of our redemption and salvation through Yeshua Messiah.

The barley is aviv and the renewed moon has been sighted over the Land of Israel. Thus, we have entered the Month of the Aviv, which God commanded us to guard. Tonight, we briefly discuss the significance of this command and prepare ourselves for the tremendous prophetic shadows that are embedded in this holy set apart month of God's sacred calendar year. Happy New Year!

Why do so many folks dislike, if not hate, the so-called God of the Old Testament? Well, in our discussion of the 127th Parashah of our 3-year Torah Reading Cycle, we examine the problems and misunderstandings associated with negatively judging Yehovah's warrior Persona.   https://www.themessianictorahobserver.org/2024/03/30/deuteronomy-a-rehashing-and-retelling-of-torah-to-a-new-generation-126/   Explaining the Current Calendar Confusion Among Observational Calendar Keepers (themessianictorahobserver.org)   Obedience to Torah-Marked For Destruction-Wearing Phylacteries-Torah Portion Ekev (themessianictorahobserver.org)   The High Expectations for God's People to Fulfill His Will and Purpose — Thoughts and Reflections on Torah Reading 122 (themessianictorahobserver.org)   Shabbat HaChodesh and Guarding the Month of the Aviv Thoughts and Reflections - The Messianic Torah Observer

With this post we begin the final leg of our 3-year Torah Reading trek: Deuteronomy -- A Rehashing and Retelling of Torah for a New Generation.

What I want to provide to you here today is in this post is an explanation as to why observationalists in our faith community are observing the biblical New Year at different times this year. This is an explanation of the current calendar confusion that exists among observational calendar keepers this year.

This week's Parashah is the 125th reading of our 3-year reading cycle and it entails the Torah of the Cities of Refuge. Herein we gain insight into the righteous concepts of atonement, redemption, and grace. Our text is found in Numbers 35.9-34 Key Terms and Concepts Discussed   Refuge (aka asylum): miq-lat Die or dying: mwt (mem-vav-tav) Kill or killer or murder or murderer; manslaying or manslayer: rot-zah. In our reading, Yehovah distinguishing for us the difference between murder/intentional homicide and what we call here in the West, manslaughter, accidental, or unintentional homicide. Yah's Torah of the Cities of Refuge clarifies the distinction between these two forms of killings/homicides. Besides distinguishing between intentional and unintentional homicide, Yehovah, through His instructions on the Cities of Refuge, further emphasized the extreme value that He places on life. Yah's extreme value for life must serve as a mandate for us to value life as He does. We value life in a Godly manner when we keep Yah's commandment to love our neighbor as ourselves (Lev 19.18) and to steadfastly enact righteous justice in our communities. Redeem; redeemer; avenger such as a blood avenger; to reclaim as one's own; to right a wrong or restore equilibrium: ga'al Blood; the shedding of blood; bloodguilt: dam Bribe; ransom (given to one who holds sway in a case to avoid impending judgment or punishment against a guilty party): ko'fair (ko'per) Strike; smite; to strike someone dead; to hit or injure another: neekah To flee (such as flee to a refuge city): nun-vav-semach Enmity or hostility: ehvah Witness: 'ed (ai-ed) Shabbat Shalom Beloved of Yeshua Messiah!

This 122nd Reading discusses the high expectations God has for His chosen people through the story of three tribes who sought to make a home in a place other than Canaan.