Greetings and Opening Remarks:  

• Rod Thomas welcomes listeners on a warm sunny Shabbat in the DFW area, expressing gratitude for their fellowship and hoping the episode finds everyone well and blessed.

  Housekeeping Items:  

• Announcement about the upcoming two-month Kenya Missions Trip, which may affect the regular posting schedule of TMTO.
• Request for prayers and financial support for the trip, especially for the needs of widows and orphans in western Kenya and a potential partnership with a Sabbath-keeping congregation in Homa Bay.
• Encouragement to support Hilary's non-profit, Qumran Family Foundation.

  Main Discussion:  

• Title: Book of the Law versus Book of the Covenant: The Ten Commandments Alone or All of Torah?
• The Question: A listener's question about the placement of the Book of the Covenant inside the Ark of the Covenant and the Book of the Law beside it.
• Importance of the Question: The answer strikes at the heart of the Nazarene-Messianic Faith Community, addressing whether to keep the whole Torah or just the Ten Commandments.
• Recent Experience: Rod shares his experience with 10-Commandment-Only Keepers during a missions trip to Kenya.
• Scriptural References: Various passages from Deuteronomy, 1 Samuel, James, and others are cited to support the discussion.
• Controversy: Explanation of the Book of the Law versus Book of the Covenant controversy and its implications.
• Exegetical Analysis: Detailed analysis of Galatians 3:19 and its context within the broader discussion of Torah and Grace.
• Role of Torah: Torah as a guide, tutor, and schoolmaster, revealing sin and pointing to the need for a savior.
• Conclusion: Emphasis on the importance of keeping Torah in the spirit of obedience and faith, with a call to conduct personal study and prayer.

  Closing Remarks:  

• Rod concludes the episode with a prayer for blessings and encouragement to conduct personal "Berean-style" study.
• Wishes the listeners Shabbat Shalom and Shavuatov.

Episode Title: Hebrews: A Letter to the Drifting (Part 7 of the Melchizedek Series)   Host: Rod Thomas   Date: Tuesday, August 5th, 2025   Episode Summary: In this episode, Rod Thomas continues the Melchizedek series with Part 7, titled "Hebrews: A Letter to the Drifting." Rod delves into the Book of Hebrews, exploring its profound messages and themes. He emphasizes the significance of Yahoshua (Jesus) as the ultimate High Priest in the order of Melchizedek, surpassing the Levitical priesthood and the old covenant worship system.   Key Points Discussed:  

1. Introduction and Updates:
   • Rod greets the audience and provides updates on the ministry's upcoming missions trip to Kenya, focusing on helping widows and orphans and spreading the Gospel 1.
   • He expresses gratitude for the audience's support and prayers 1.
2. Dramatic Opening Monologue:
   • Rod sets the stage with a dramatic monologue titled "The Throne and the Veil," highlighting the significance of the Book of Hebrews 2.
3. Main Teaching:
   • Rod introduces the main teaching, focusing on the Book of Hebrews and its message to the drifting believers 3.
   • He discusses the historical and spiritual context of the Book of Hebrews, emphasizing its relevance to modern-day believers 4.
   • Rod explores the themes of Yahoshua's exaltation, the Melchizedekian priesthood, and the renewed covenant 5.
4. Key Themes and Messages:
   • The superiority of Yahoshua over angels, Moses, and the Levitical priesthood 6.
   • The concept of Yahoshua as the eternal High Priest and mediator of a better covenant 7.
   • The importance of understanding the Book of Hebrews in its historical and cultural context 8.
5. Conclusion:
   • Rod concludes the episode with a preview of the next installment in the series, encouraging listeners to continue their study of the Book of Hebrews 9.
   • He expresses his hope that the teachings will inspire and bless the audience 10.

  Call to Action:  

• Listeners are encouraged to support the ministry's missions trip to Kenya through prayers and financial contributions. Donations can be made through the Qumran Family Foundation's website 1.

  Contact Information:  

• For more information and to support the ministry, visit [http://qumranfamilyfoundation.org](http://qumranfamilyfoundation.org).

Shalom Truth-Seekers in Yeshua Messiah.

This is the first installment in a series of detailed teaching on the Hebrew concept of “covenant” (or “Berit”) and its foundational role in the faith and salvation of God’s (i.e. Yehovah’s) chosen ones. In this installment we introduce the Hebrew concept of covenant by exploring the term’s meaning. We also emphasize its significance as a sacred, legally binding relationship between Yehovah (God) and His chosen people, Yisra’el/Yasharal, with its physical and spiritual implications for all humanity. The teaching critiques denominational misunderstandings and highlights covenant's Torah roots and its wider scriptural (i.e. both Tanach and Brit HaDashah) importance.

Introduction to the Covenant Series

We begin by recalling a previous post on Genesis 12:3. The title of that post is: Does "I Will Bless Those Who Bless and Curse Those Who Curse," Apply to the Modern Nation of Israel? (If you’ve not had the opportunity to listen to or read that post, we humbly invite you to do so by clicking this link https://www.themessianictorahobserver.org/2025/06/28/does-i-will-bless-those-who-bless-and-curse-those-who-curse-apply-to-the-modern-nation-of-israel/) In that post we clarified that the verse is not a command to bless the modern nation-state of Israel. But rather the verse is a prescriptive covenant provision. This provision states that those who treat God’s chosen people, according to Torah principles, receive Yah’s favor, while those who mistreat them face divine harm. And thus, covenant is central to God’s relationship with His covenant people, Israel/Yisra’el/Yasharal. And it was that post that has prompted this covenant teaching series. In this series, we will explore the refined and broader principles of covenant that link it to God’s/Yah’s Grand Plan of Salvation, Restoration, and Redemption through the Person and Ministries of Yeshua HaMashiyach.

Also in this post, we stress that denominational Christianity often fails to grasp the true Hebrew concept of covenant's significance because of their overall rejection of Torah and Hebraic principles. Because of denominationalism’s wholesale rejection of Torah and Hebraic principles, they fail to recognize that the covenant is the sole pathway to a true relationship with God/Yehovah. That God-human relationship was established originally with Abraham and came to its fullest realization in the Person and Ministries of Yeshua Messiah. We will see that faithfulness to Torah and covenant obedience are essential for salvation and entry into the Kingdom of Heaven (Mat 7.22-23).

Understanding the Hebrew Concept of Covenant

Covenant, or "Berit" (in Hebrew), is a set apart, legally binding relational agreement between God/Yehovah and His chosen people. (Later on in this series we will see that Yah’s chosen people are not limited to just the biological descendants of Avraham, Yitschaq, and Ya’achov.) But covenant frames the established relationship between God and His chosen ones with rules/behavioral expectations, obligations, and promises. Secularists may view a covenant much like a contract. But we will see as we delve deeper into the covenant Yah established/cut with His chosen ones that the concept of covenant is deeper. It’s akin to a marriage-like partnership that is characterized by love, grace, and mercy. Both parties of the relational covenant agreement are bound to uphold the tenets of the established covenant. But God’s faithfulness ensures the covenant’s integrity, even when the covenant’s human-signatory to the covenant, fail to keep their end of the covenant agreement. This faithfulness on God’s/Yehovah’s part is an immutable trait of God. Moseh described this character trait accordingly:

 “Yehovah/God is not a man that He should lie, nor a son of man (i.e. a human being) that He should repent (i.e. change His mind). Has He said and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not establish it?” (Numbers 23:19; LSB)

The covenant (sometimes referred to as a blood covenant) is solemnly "cut" or established through an ancient middle eastern ritual that involves animal sacrifices. This bloody, solemn act symbolizes the serious and binding nature of the agreement (Gen 15).

The Hebrew word "Berit" pictographically combines elements representing family, leadership, work, and consent. These elements underscore the covenant’s relational and purposeful dimensions.

Key Biblical Covenants

We furthermore outline the five major expansions of Yah’s covenant with His chosen ones:

• The Noahic Covenant (Genesis 6 and 9)
• The Patriarchal Covenant with Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 12, 15, 17)
• The National Covenant given through Moses at Sinai (Exodus 19-24)
• The Davidic Covenant with King David (2 Chronicles, Psalms, Isaiah)
• The New or Renewed Covenant prophesied by Jeremiah and Ezekiel (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ezekiel 36:26-38)

Each covenant expansion reveals aspects of God’s/Yah’s immutable character and the love He has for His set apart people. These expansions include expectations Yah for His covenant people. These expansions of covenant shape Israel’s identity and sacred mission on the earth.

The Commonness and Uniqueness of Covenants

While covenants were common in the ancient Near East, often understood by scholars as treaties that various kings established with their vassals, the Hebrew covenant is unique. For we find that it is initiated solely by God acting from a position of sovereignty. God/Yah offers to His chosen ones a non-negotiable invitation to enter into a relationship with Him that is based on grace and love. Humans may accept or reject that invitation, but they cannot alter the terms of that covenant. Why? Because it is God/Yah Who carries the covenant’s weight. Not from a position of subjugating His people, but from an expression of His desire for loving communion with His people. The covenant is thus a sacred bond with rules that both parties must honor. Those who accept the terms of the covenant commit to loving God (and loving God/Yah comes through faithful obedience to Him) and loving one another (Luk 10:27).

The prophet Jeremiah’s words to the Babylonian captives illustrate God’s faithfulness to His covenant despite Israel’s failures (chapter 29). Because of Yah’s steadfastness to His Covenant, He promises Judah restoration and a future of peace.

Greek Understanding of Covenant and Terminology

In this teaching we also contrast the Hebrew "Berit" with the Greek "diatheke" that is used in the New Testament and in the LXX/Septuagint. While "diatheke" can refer to a “will” or “testament,” the Greek version of covenant does not capture the rich spiritual depth of the Hebrew, which involves an enduring, intimate relationship that has far-reaching implications for humanity’s salvation.

Varying Definitions of Covenant

We list several scholarly definitions for covenant, some of which emphasize covenant as an alliance, compact, treaty, or sacred kinship bonds. The Hebrew understanding of covenant, however, centers on relationship, promises, and expectations established uniquely by God/Yehovah with Israel/Yisra’el/Yasharal.

Conclusion

We conclude our discussion by emphasizing the necessity of understanding covenant from a Hebrew perspective that is rooted in Torah, the Prophets, and the Writings. A Greek-only or New Testament-only view limits comprehension of this critical concept and the one that embraces it from that Greek perspective risks missing the covenant’s full significance for individual believers and the collective identity of Israel. The covenant remains the foundation for humanity’s salvation and our entry into the Kingdom of God (i.e. the Malchut Ahlohim).

 

This post discusses the implications of Genesis 12:3 regarding the relationship between the United States and Israel, particularly in the context of recent conflicts involving Israel. I question whether the passage is a biblical command that believers to bless the modern nation state of Israel. I also explore the concept of covenant as it relates to this blessings and curses provision of the Abrahamic Covenant.

• Covenant Significance: We look at the importance of the covenant established between Yah and Avraham, which extends to his descendants, influencing how nations interact with Israel.  
• Interpretation of Genesis 12:3: I argue that Genesis 12:3 is a prescription rather than a command, suggesting it reflects a reality of blessings for those who support Israel and curses for those who oppose the covenant relationship that exists between Abba Yah and Israel.  
• Modern Political Context: I seek to highlight the divided opinions in the U.S. regarding support for Israel, particularly in light of recent statements from political figures referencing biblical support for Israel.  
• Broader Implications: The blessings and curses mentioned in the covenant are seen as applicable not only to Israel but to all who enter a covenant relationship with Yah, emphasizing the need for obedience to Yah’s Torah.  
• Covenant Relationship with Yah: I stress that the covenant relationship is pivotal for understanding the dynamics of blessings and curses, which are tied to how individuals and nations treat Israel.
• Conclusion on Support for Israel: Ultimately, I conclude that support for Israel should be aligned with the principles of Yah’s Torah and the teachings and example of Yeshua Messiah and reflect a genuine love for His chosen people as expressed in His covenant relationship with them, rather than blind political allegiance.  

Explore the profound Messianic reflections in the life of Yosef Ben Yisrael through Torah Reading 34. Join Rod Thomas of the Messianic Torah Observer as he delves into Genesis 37:1-36, drawing parallels between Joseph/Yosef and Yahoshua Messiah. Discover the spiritual insights and prophetic shadows that enrich our understanding of faith and covenant.   Context of the Discussion The commentary begins with the date of publication, marking it as the 23rd day of the 3rd Month 6025 (June 20, 2025). The author notes that this installment reflects on the themes found in the specified Torah reading, which details the early life of Joseph and his relationship with his family. The author encourages readers to follow along using their own Bibles, although he will not read the entire passage verbatim.   Patriarchal Sojourners The document discusses the concept of the patriarchs, particularly Jacob (Ya’achov), settling in Canaan, the land promised to them by God. It references the Book of Hebrews, noting that the patriarchs lived as sojourners in the land of promise, looking forward to a greater inheritance. Jacob is highlighted as the third patriarch to settle in Canaan, a place of significance for his family.   The Story of Joseph The narrative transitions to Joseph, who is introduced as a favored son of Jacob. The author explains that Joseph's story becomes central to the continuation of God's covenant with the patriarchs, despite the rejection and hardships he faces from his brothers. Joseph is portrayed as a type of Jesus (Yahoshua Messiah), representing salvation and preservation for Israel.   Dysfunctional Family Dynamics The document elaborates on the complex family dynamics within Jacob's household, particularly Joseph's relationship with his brothers, who harbor jealousy and resentment due to Jacob's favoritism. Joseph's role as a "tattler" and the implications of his dreams, which foretell his future authority over his brothers, further exacerbate tensions. The author highlights how Joseph's dreams are perceived negatively by his brothers, leading to increased hostility.   The Conspiracy Against Joseph As the narrative unfolds, the brothers conspire to kill Joseph upon seeing him approach. Reuben, the eldest brother, intervenes to save him from murder, suggesting they throw him into a pit instead. Ultimately, Joseph is sold to Midianite merchants, and the brothers deceive their father by fabricating a story about Joseph's death. This act of betrayal sets the stage for Joseph's eventual rise to power in Egypt, which serves a greater divine purpose.    Spiritual and Prophetic Implications The author draws parallels between Joseph's experiences and the life of Jesus, emphasizing themes of rejection, suffering, and eventual exaltation. Both figures are seen as beloved sons who face betrayal but ultimately fulfill God's plan for salvation. The commentary concludes with reflections on the prophetic nature of Joseph's story and its relevance to the understanding of Jesus' mission.   Conclusion In summary, the document provides a rich exploration of the themes found in Genesis 37, focusing on the life of Joseph and its connections to broader spiritual narratives. The author encourages readers to reflect on the lessons learned from Joseph's experiences and the overarching message of divine providence in the face of human betrayal.

Title: The Messianic Torah Observer: Reflections on Torah Reading 33   Description: Join Rod Thomas as he delves into Torah Reading 33, exploring the transformative journey of Ya'achov (Jacob) and the reaffirmation of the covenant by Yehovah. This episode covers the significance of Ya'achov's encounters, the importance of supporting Israel, and the lessons we can learn from the patriarchs. Rod also shares updates on the Qumran Family Foundation's efforts in Kenya and invites listeners to support the ministry.   Key Points:  

• Ya'achov's journey from Paddan Aram to Canaan and his divine encounters.
• The reaffirmation of the covenant and the significance of Ya'achov's name change to Yisra'el.
• The importance of supporting Israel in times of conflict.
• Updates on the Qumran Family Foundation's educational programs in Kenya.
• Encouragement to support the ministry through prayers and financial contributions.

  Call to Action: Visit [https://themessianictorahobserver.org](https://themessianictorahobserver.org) for more information and to support the ministry. Subscribe to our YouTube and Rumble channels for more content.

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.