The Messianic Torah Observer

Title: Runway to the Royal Priesthood—How Hebrews Builds the Case for Yeshua as Our Melchizedekian High Priest Episode Description: Are you ready to discover the deeper meaning behind Yeshua's role as our Melchizedekian High Priest? In this powerful episode, Rod Thomas guides you through the Book of Hebrews, revealing how its author builds a compelling case for Yeshua's unique priesthood and what it means for Messianic believers today. What You'll Learn:

• Why the Melchizedekian priesthood is central to the true faith once delivered
• How Hebrews connects Yeshua's ministry to Torah, covenant, and spiritual identity
• The difference between Levitical and Melchizedekian priesthood—and why it matters now
• Practical responsibilities of believers as royal priests: praise, prayer, teaching, and living set-apart lives
• The "runway" of Hebrews chapters 1–4: Yeshua's superiority to angels, humanity, Moses, and the promise of true rest

Why Listen? If you've ever wondered how Yeshua fulfills the Torah, why the priesthood matters, or how your faith connects to the Kingdom, this episode will equip you with assurance, hope, and a deeper sense of identity in Messiah. Resources & Links:

• https://www.themessianictorahobserver.org/2025/08/07/hebrews-letter-to-the-drifting-part-7-of-our-melchizedek-series/
• Contact Rod: [email protected]
• Leave a voice message: SpeakPipe on themessianictorahobserver.org

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies—your journey as a royal priest matters!

Show Notes Title: Israel's Inextricable Link to Our Salvation—Reflections on Torah Reading Vayigash Host: Rod Thomas, Messianic Torah Observer Date: Preparation Day, Friday, December 26, 2025 Episode Overview In this installment of TMTO, Rod explores the prophetic significance of Torah Reading Vayigash (Genesis 44:18–47:27), focusing on the powerful themes of repentance, revelation, restoration and salvation. Discover how Joseph's story serves as a shadow picture of Yeshua Messiah's mission, the unity and redemption of Israel's tribes, and the ultimate salvation promised to both houses of Israel, all of which is inextricably linked to every believer's salvation. Key Topics

• Vayigash Torah Portion: The meaning of "And He (Judah) Approached" and its tradition in Messianic and Orthodox communities
• Joseph's Revelation: How Joseph's revealing to his brothers mirrors Yeshua's future revelation to Israel
• Repentance and Restoration: The sequence of repentance, revelation, and restoration as a prophetic pattern for Israel's final redemption
• Lost Tribes and the Remnant: Insights on the lost tribes of Israel, the concept of "all Israel will be saved," and the importance of covenant relationship over biological descent
• Messianic Prophecy: Connections to Romans 11, Ezekiel 37, and other key passages about the unity and salvation of Israel
• Practical Application: Encouragement to enter into covenant with Yehovah through Yeshua Messiah and walk in obedience

Resources & Contact

• Scripture References: Genesis 44–47, Romans 11, Ezekiel 37, Isaiah 10, Jeremiah 31, Revelation 7, and more.
• Contact: For questions or feedback, email Rod at [email protected] or leave a voice message via SpeakPipe at themessianictorahobserver.org

Closing Blessing: May you be most blessed, fellow saints in training. Have an overcoming Sabbath and a productive week in Yeshua Messiah!

This episode of the Messianic Torah Observer, hosted by Rod Thomas, explores the Torah portion Miketz (Genesis 41:1–44:17), focusing on the life of Joseph (Yosef) and drawing prophetic parallels to Yeshua (Jesus). The teaching highlights how both figures exemplify essential Kingdom character traits—humility, faith, wisdom, the Spirit of Yehovah, and forgiveness. The discussion begins with a summary of Joseph's rise from prison to becoming second-in-command in Egypt, his interactions with his brothers during the famine, and the tests he sets for them. The episode then delves into the spiritual significance of these events, emphasizing how Joseph's journey mirrors the ministry and character of Yeshua. Key themes include:

• Humility: Both Joseph and Yeshua endured humbling circumstances before being exalted, modeling the Kingdom principle that exaltation comes through humility.
• Faith: Their unwavering trust in Yehovah enabled them to endure trials and fulfill their divine purposes.
• Wisdom: Joseph's God-given wisdom saved nations, while Yeshua embodied divine wisdom, teaching and guiding others.
• The Spirit of Yehovah: Both were recognized as being filled with the Spirit, empowering their ministries.
• Forgiveness: Joseph forgave his brothers, and Yeshua taught and demonstrated forgiveness, making it a central Kingdom imperative.

The episode concludes with a call for listeners to emulate these traits, seek God's wisdom, and pursue spiritual growth, assuring that Yehovah equips and empowers those who earnestly seek Him.

Explore the origins, meaning, and spiritual relevance of Hanukkah from a Messianic Torah Observer perspective. This episode dives into the biblical foundation of the Feast of Dedication, its connection to the altar, and whether modern believers should celebrate Hanukkah. Discover how tradition, history, and renewed covenant come together in this insightful discussion.

This a Messianic Torah reflection on Genesis 37:1-36, focusing on the life and story of Yosef (Joseph), son of Ya'achov (Jacob), and its prophetic and spiritual significance. It explores the patriarchal sojourning in the promised land, the familial dynamics, and the parallels between Yosef's experiences and the life and ministry of Yahoshua Messiah (Jesus). Patriarchal Sojourners in the Promised Land Ya'achov settles in the land of Canaan, the land promised by Yehovah, continuing the pattern of the patriarchs sojourning in the promised land without fully possessing it, as noted in Hebrews 11:8-10. Ya'achov returns to Hebron, the home of his father Yitschaq, who never left this place . The Story of Yosef as the Story of Ya'achov The narrative shifts from Ya'achov to his son Yosef, whose story is central to the continuation of the covenant promises. Yosef is portrayed as a vessel chosen by Yehovah to preserve Yisra'el, despite rejection and persecution by his brothers. His life is seen as a prophetic shadow of Yahoshua Messiah . Family Dynamics and Yosef's Role Yosef, at 17 years old, is shepherding his brothers' flocks and assumed to be the "Son of the Covenant." His favored status by Ya'achov and his unique character set him apart. The Hebrew term for "tended" implies Yosef shepherded his brothers, especially those of Bilhah and Zilpah's sons. Reuben, the eldest, though complicit in Yosef's near enslavement, intervenes to save his life, unknowingly cooperating with Yah's plan . Ya'achov's Love and the Birthright Question Ya'achov's love for Yosef, his son of old age and Rachel's firstborn, causes jealousy among the brothers. Yosef receives a special garment, the "ketonet passim," often interpreted as a long-sleeved or multi-colored tunic symbolizing his favored status and possibly his appointment as clan leader, replacing Reuben due to his transgression . Brothers' Hatred and Rejection of Yosef The brothers' hatred stems from Ya'achov's love for Yosef and Yosef's role as a family tattler. Their rejection of Yosef reflects a rejection of their father and Yehovah. This familial rejection parallels how Yeshua was rejected by Judah for being beloved by His Father . Yosef's Prophetic Dreams and Their Impact Yosef shares two prophetic dreams symbolizing his future authority over his brothers. The first involves sheaves of grain bowing to his sheaf, and the second depicts the sun, moon, and eleven stars bowing to him, representing his family. These dreams intensify the brothers' hatred, though Ya'achov ponders their meaning carefully. These dreams foreshadow Yosef's exaltation in Egypt and reflect a common ancient Near Eastern motif of paired dreams . Preparation for Yosef's Trials and Glorification Yosef's journey toward exaltation involves trials and refining, much like the future glorification of Yeshua Messiah, who foretold the hardships His disciples would endure. Yosef's obedience to his father's mission parallels Yeshua's obedience to His Heavenly Father's will . Yosef's Mission to Find His Brothers Ya'achov sends Yosef to check on his brothers pasturing in Shechem, a dangerous area with a troubled family history. Yosef's persistence in seeking his brothers despite challenges parallels Yeshua's mission to seek and save the lost. A mysterious man redirects Yosef to Dothan, possibly an angelic figure, highlighting divine guidance in fulfilling Yah's plan . The Brothers' Conspiracy and Reuben's Intervention The brothers plot to kill Yosef but Reuben intervenes, forbidding bloodshed and planning to rescue Yosef later. Reuben's actions reflect a complex family dynamic and his attempt to restore his firstborn responsibilities despite past failings . Yosef's Humiliation and Sale into Slavery Upon meeting Yosef, the brothers strip him of his special robe, symbolically removing his dignity, mirroring how Yeshua was stripped before crucifixion. They cast Yosef into a cistern and later sell him to Ishmaelite merchants for twenty pieces of silver. This act, intended to destroy Yosef, ultimately fulfills Yah's plan for salvation . The Brothers' Deception and Ya'achov's Grief The brothers deceive Ya'achov by presenting Yosef's bloodied robe, claiming he was killed by a wild animal. Ya'achov mourns deeply, rending his clothes and refusing to be comforted, expressing his profound loss and grief . Yosef's Journey in Egypt Yosef is sold to Potiphar, an Egyptian official, marking the beginning of his rise in Egypt and the unfolding of Yah's providential plan . Spiritual Reflections on Dreams and Prophecy The document reflects on the significance of dreams as divine communication in Hebrew tradition, noting that prophets often received messages through dreams. Yosef is seen as a prophet whose dreams reveal Yah's Will. The symbolism in Yosef's dreams connects to broader prophetic imagery, including the woman clothed with the sun in Revelation 12, representing Yisra'el . Messianic Parallels Between Yosef and Yeshua The narrative draws extensive parallels between Yosef and Yeshua Messiah:

• Both are beloved sons of their fathers.
• Both are appointed to shepherd Yisra'el.
• Both face rejection and hatred from their brethren.
• Both suffer humiliation and are ultimately exalted.
• Both serve as instruments of salvation for Yisra'el and the nations.
• Both experiences demonstrate how divine plans prevail despite human evil .

The teaching concludes by emphasizing that Torah readings like this one serve as shadows of greater spiritual realities to come and encourages readers to find further Messianic insights within the text .

This installment of TMTO reports on a 2025 mission trip to Kenya by the Qumran Family Foundation (QFF), focusing on supporting widows and orphans through literacy and empowerment programs. It details the ministry's work, challenges faced, accomplishments, and future plans.

· Ministry focus on Kenyan widows and orphans: QFF aims to break the cycle of poverty by providing literacy education and business/job skills to widows and supporting orphans lacking basic subsistence and educational opportunities. Kenyan widows face social isolation, abuse, and financial struggles, compounded by cultural restrictions and lack of government support.

· Biblical foundation for the mission: The ministry is grounded in Torah commandments to care for widows and orphans, citing multiple scriptural references emphasizing justice, provision, and honor toward these groups.

· Trip logistics and locations: The mission trip was planned starting December 2024, with travel from August 24 to November 20, 2025. Activities took place in Nairobi, Migori, Kehancha, and Kisii.

· Organizational milestones: QFF became a registered non-profit/NGO in Kenya with an official tax identification (KRA PIN) in August 2025, enabling legal operations.

· Educational achievements: Forty-one widows graduated from the basic literacy course with a formal ceremony in September 2025. A new widows' school was opened in Kisii with 16-20 students, and the Kehancha school relocated to begin Phase 2 classes teaching business and job skills to graduates.

· Ministry outreach and baptisms: The team delivered the Gospel to Kuria Family Care Messianic Assembly, supporting 25 fatherless children, and baptized eight individuals including the pastor in November 2025.

· Staffing and facilities: QFF opened an office in Migori Town in November 2025, employing four teachers, an office manager, and an operations assistant to support ongoing programs.

· Challenges faced: The ministry encountered political unrest, widespread corruption, and the strong presence of Islam in Kenya, alongside spiritual opposition, requiring reliance on faith and careful verification in operations.

· Future needs and plans: QFF seeks funding for teachers, classrooms in Kisumu and Migori, a vehicle, support for Kuria Care orphans and widows, and ongoing operational costs. Planned 2026 goals include expanding literacy classes, graduating new classes, and continuing mission trips. Donations and support are encouraged via qumranfamilyfoundation.org.

This Kenyan Missionary Trip 2025 Update will hopefully inform you about our two-month's work here in Kenya. Since we've been here, much work has been completed on behalf some of the widows of Kehancha and Kisii, all of which I detail in this update for you. Nevertheless, there remains so much more to do in the remaining 3-1/2 months we're here. We invite you to take a listen and hopefully you will be led to support this ministry to help lift the souls of some of Kenya's most disenfranchised and discarded individuals: the widows. Torah instructs us to not neglect either the widow or the orphan. Thus, it is our job as Messianics/Nazarene Israelites to do our best to tend to them and help them overcome their plight.

qumranfamilyfoundation.org

Shalom.

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).