The Weekly Messianic Teachings from Shalom Macon: Recent Episodes
Shalom Macon - Messianic Jewish Teaching
Shalom Macon is a growing and vibrant Messianic Jewish congregation in Macon, Georgia, serving all of the Middle Georgia area. Our congregation is a diverse community, comprised of families from many nations, tribes, and tongues (Revelation 7:9). Therefore, obviously, many are not from a Jewish background. And while we are a Jewish synagogue, committed to the Jewish traditions, teachings, and lifestyle exemplified by our ancestors, our vision is to practice an inclusive Messianic Judaism for All Nations; a restoration of the faith of the earliest communities of Yeshua-followers; a window into the Judaism of the Messianic Era in which King Messiah will reign.
We live in a world that has all but forgotten holiness. Although the world says it celebrates diversity, it only means diversity that is in opposition to godliness. Rather than making ourselves distinct through holiness, we strive to blend in through taking the path of least resistance. Let’s take a look at this concept together in this week's 5 Minute Torah.
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Do you call yourself a disciple of Yeshua? If so, have you forsaken all and died to yourself in the waters of the mikveh order to follow him? Or is your Old Man still in control of your life like a second personality constantly trying to emerge? Yeshua says we can’t serve two masters. It’s time for one of them to die.
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What is the sharpest weapon in the world? A spear? A knife? A sword? A razor? Actually, there’s something each one of us have that’s much sharper and far more deadly than any of these. This tiny little thing has caused the most bloodshed of any weapon known to man and we tend to use it far too frequently—especially against the people we love the most. What am I talking about? Let’s take a look in this week’s 5 Minute Torah.
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If we have been made alive through Messiah, then the “Old Man” should be dead & gone. But it seems he’s always lurking in the shadows and trying to rear his ugly head. How do we keep him in check and live as a new creation through Yeshua? If you struggle with this, then his series is for you. The first step is to have an honest conversation about our Identity to make sure we recognize our “Old Man.”
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The Jerusalem Council in Acts 15 was a pivotal point for Gentiles. But what were some of the practical ramifications of that critical decision and do they still affect us today? Let’s take a look together in this week's 5 Minute Torah.
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What lies have we told ourselves so long that they’ve become our truth, particularly the idea that, “This is just who I am”? It’s a universal truth that God loves you just the way you are. But it’s also true that He refuses to leave you that way. And, believe it or not, this is connected to our current season of counting the Omer between Passover and Shavuot. It isn’t just about numbers. It’s about anticipation and preparing ourselves to receive the Torah anew on Shavuot. If that’s the case, shouldn’t we be a different, “more improved” version of ourselves than last year? If so, how do we accomplish this?
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A “holiday” based on remembering slavery? When you really think about it, it’s kind of strange, right? And the Torah has dozens of verses commanding Israel to remember their slavery? Shouldn’t that be something to forget?! Is this the best origin story Israel could have hoped for? There must be more, right? Let’s explore.
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Did Yeshua come to disrupt the religious system of Judaism and replace it with a new religion called Christianity? He seemed to always be at odds with the religious people of his day. He confronted the religous authorities. He drove the money changers from the Temple. He contrasted the “old” way of doing things with his “new” way. But if that’s the case, why did Yeshua send the leper to the priests for inspection after he healed him? If he was already healed and Yeshua was coming to replace the priesthood—as many claim—why did he send him back to the priests “for a proof to them”? Was he really as much of a renegade as we’ve made him out to be? Let’s find out in this week’s 5 Minute Torah.
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First things first, leprosy isn’t leprosy! In this message we learn about “biblical leprosy“ and understand how this condition manifests in the community of Israel. From there, we’ll investigate tzara’at from the proper perspective and learn how we can apply these lessons even today.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
Did Yeshua ever become “unclean” according to the biblical definition? Even when he touched leper or the dead?
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Imposter Syndrome. Although you may not have heard of it, you've probably experienced it. No matter how qualified you may be in reality, you feel inadequate and that at some point you are going to be exposed for the fraud you "really" are. If you've ever been paralyzed by past mistakes, then Aaron, the brother of Moses, has something to teach you. Join Rabbi Damian to discover a path to self-acceptance and the courage to step into greatness as we explore Aaron's story in this week's Torah portion.
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Did Jesus declare all foods clean in Mark 7? https://youtu.be/IBZoibBPg6Q
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As we delve into the book of Esther, we encounter an intriguing statement describing what she wore before approaching the king unannounced. Many translations oversimplify this moment by referring to her attire as "royal robes." In this teaching, we will uncover what Esther truly wore, according to Jewish sources, and we will examine other significant biblical figures who wore similar garments and transformed the world as a result. And as disciples of Yeshua, we are called to wear similar garments.
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As we dive into the lessons from Leviticus, we explore a different kind of sacrifice – the sacrifice of silence. When was the last time silence spoke louder than words for you? In an era where noise is constant, discover the profound impact of embracing silence.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
Ever wondered why God seems hidden even when you've done everything right? Why does God choose to hide and how do we find Him when He does? Join Shalom Macon and learn how to seek and find the concealed presence of God, even when He seems most distant.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
This week's parsha witnesses Israel moving past the golden calf incident and beginning anew the work on the Tabernacle. However, before the work commences, we encounter a brief reminder from HaShem to the people about the Sabbath. The traditional explanation for its placement here is compelling, but in this message, Rabbi Damian explores a deeper meaning behind the inclusion of these verses and explains just how powerful they may have been to the children of Israel.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
This week, we delve into one of the Torah's most challenging sections: the golden calf incident. Following this event, there's a curious moment when the people “strip off their jewelry.” At first glance, this act may seem minor, but it marks a critical turning point in Israel's relationship with God. This teaching will illuminate the significance of this moment and its implications for Israel's spiritual journey.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
Parsha Tetzaveh primarily focuses on the vestments of the High Priest. However, nestled within its verses, we find a singular verse that describes a unique communication tool with God: the Urim and Thummim. This week's lesson explores its purpose and use, its tragic loss, and a form of its reappearance in the lives of Yeshua's disciples.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
Eeki Elner tells of his personal experiences of October 7 massacre and the aftermath as an Israeli living on the Gaza border.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
Last week’s Torah portion was the climax of the Jewish experience after the Exodus — Mt. Sinai and the giving of the Torah. This week we find ourselves following up that spiritual crescendo with the Mishpatim (“ordinances”). And to be honest, they don’t seem to start off well do they? How do religious people derive any benefit from understanding slavery laws? If these are included here, how can any of the laws in the Torah be relevant? We’ll discuss a tough topic in this week’s teaching.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
The Torah provides a never ending source of lessons for life. In this weeks portion, Jethro teaches Moses, one of the most important leadership lesson: delegation. But when we read Jethro’s question to Moses, we discover that he’s teaching a lesson not just for Moses, but to the nation as a whole. A lesson that Yeshua would later echo for all of his disciples, and one that certainly still applies to us today.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
Jewish tradition and commentary have dug deeply into the biblical texts for millennia. From the fruit of that labor, we are sometimes privileged to see stories beneath the story. This week presents an unknown hero of the Exodus. A name and a lesson that—after this teaching—you’ll always remember.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
Why did God choose to bring the 10 plagues upon Egypt? Was there not a better way than the death of innocent children? Were the Egyptians treated unfairly by the God of justice? This week’s teaching explorers the purpose behind the last three devastating plagues in the story of the Exodus.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
There are incidents in the Bible that sometimes cause people to question the motives of God. Pharaoh’s hard heart presents one of those challenges and sets the stage for the argument over free will versus predestination. Is there an answer if we look at the Jewish perspective? This message explores the story behind the story and offers an explanation that shows the true nature of our God.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
The “Bridegroom of Blood” episode in the Book of Exodus is undoubtedly one of the most peculiar events in the Torah. Various interpretations of this incident exist within Jewish thought. This message delves into a couple of traditional perspectives behind Zipporah's actions, but also introduces a novel interpretation that portrays her as a woman of faith and courage.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
What is higher purpose of life? Most experts argue its not status, wealth, or accumulating expensive cars, houses, shoes or watches, but rather finding peace and contentment. What is it that gives us the sense of contentment and accomplishment we seek? To Bless or Seek. That is the question. Let's explore the answer.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
If we look around, there are so many unhappy people in the world. It seems everyone is looking for happiness, but very few find it. This is a message for anyone who desires to live their life to the fullest. It integrates psychological insights with biblical teachings, offering a comprehensive view of achieving true, lasting happiness.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
Every day we put on different clothes based on what we are doing or how we are feeling. But have you ever thought about putting clothes on your soul? It may sound like an odd concept, but we actually do it every day, and sometimes we show up in the wrong outfit. Join us to find out what these "soul threads," or garments of the soul are.
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God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
Hanukkah was a holy war, if by holy, we mean directed by God. There is currently a different kind of holy war being waged, and God is certainly not directing this one. It is imperative, not just for disciples of Yeshua, but for all of humanity, to be aware of this enemy and to stand united against it.
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Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give
-- Ways to Support Shalom Macon --
Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give
Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563
PayPal | giving@shalomacon.org
Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990
God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
What is Hanukkah? The Talmud asks the question, but today, many Christians are too. There are meaningful themes of the past associated with the Feast of Dedication, but it’s the the powerful message of hope for the future that makes the answer to that question one worth knowing. What is Hannukah? Find out here.
Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings
If you get value from our work, please
consider Supporting Shalom Macon
https://www.shalomacon.org/give
-- Ways to Support Shalom Macon --
Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give
Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563
PayPal | giving@shalomacon.org
Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990
God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue.
Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message.
A brief word from Rabbi Damian about one of life’s most important attributes: Gratitude. Then join Shalom Macon as we sings songs of thanksgiving to our God.
Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider
Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give
-- Ways to Support Shalom Macon --
Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give
Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563
PayPal | giving@shalomacon.org
Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990
God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
The Bible is book of building, giving not taking. In a society built on consumption, the idea of building a better world has seemingly lost its luster. But the stories of the Bible call us to the task. Shalom Macon intends to bring that back, to live in service to people, to be builders not bystanders. Find out what that means in this week’s teaching.
Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider
Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give
-- Ways to Support Shalom Macon --
Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give
Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563
PayPal | giving@shalomacon.org
Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990
God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!
Israel has been “ruled” by a diverse cast of characters throughout history. Many empires have declared ownership of the land, but one people has a legal claim to it, politically and biblically. Who might you think that would be? Take a listen and share this message with others.
The expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael is a difficult read. Why do we need to know all the details of this event? Why does God allow Sarah to separate them from Abraham? What does this story have to do with Arab-Israeli relations today? This message offers some provocative answers for these questions.
It was inevitable that some, maybe much of the world would begin to see Israel negatively as this war has continued. It’s always this way. But the turning tide shares much in common with the antisemitism and hatred of Jewish people that we hoped had died with the Nazis. It’s imperative that the facts in this war are discussed and shared. This message intends to prepare you to be an informed advocate for Israel and the Jewish people.
The Torah says that during the days of Noah, the world became corrupt and was filled with … hamas. Yes - Hamas. Our Torah portion addresses our present situation and give us answers if we look deep enough. Let's take a look at this ancient foe and see what steps we can take to overcome it together.
Anyone who has even the slightest connection to Israel is reeling from the recent horrific attacks. For those who are strongly connected, there’s a chance that anger and even hatred are parts of these emotions. Is that okay? Should we feel bad about our emotional response to the hatred that others have shown? How do we deal with these negative emotions in light of our mission and calling as children of God and disciples of Yeshua?
Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings at: https://www.youtube.com/shalommacon
If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon
https://www.shalomacon.org/give
-- Ways to Support Shalom Macon
-- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give
Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563
PayPal | giving@shalomacon.org
Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990
God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message.
How high can the walls of your sukkah be? It’s an actual discussion we find in rabbinic literature. Our first response might be, “Who cares?!” As we close out the fall holidays, this message investigates what this seemingly trivial argument can reveal to us about ourselves.
The most famous part of the Sukkot celebration has to do with the sukkah, the temporary dwelling. But there is another component of the holiday which is mentioned even before God commands us to dwell in Sukkot. It called the arba minim, the four kinds, and it has a lot to say about you, your heart, and your joy. We’ll investigate that story in this teaching.
It’s Shabbat Shuvah, the Shabbat of Return. One last step remains on the repentance road we’ve been walking—one last rock to confront, and then we can look to tie the knot with our Father and our King. You need to hear this message to understand!
On Rosh Hashanah, we simultaneously meet regret and hope with the sound of the shofar. Both are powerfully pointing us to be the people God intends us to be.
We’ve walked the Repentance Road for 4 weeks in this series. Hopefully, we’ve learned the steps to take, prepared for the challenges ahead, and set our hearts and minds on being transformed during the upcoming High Holidays. In this conclusion, Rabbi Damian shares a powerful action step for us all to take as we enter the gates of repentance on Rosh Hashanah.
Is forgiveness a part of repentance? If I’ve been wronged, and no one has apologized, how can I be expected to repent? When we see repentance for what it really is, a turning, forgiveness fits within it. When we decide to turn, we see the true power and freedom of forgiveness in our lives.
There are 4 steps to repentance. We’ve covered the first three, but the fourth part is considered the most important, the commanded component — confession. But why? What’s happening when we confess our transgression? What does “I’m sorry” really accomplish?
The season of repentance is in full swing now. The month of Elul brings our focus to repentance and positive change. Sounds great, but how do we do it? How do we succeed?
Press on, make progress, don’t look back. These are common themes in the teaching at Shalom Macon. But there is a time to look back and do some serious soul searching. That time is starting very soon, as we begin our journey through Elul and enter the fall festivals, the High Holidays. It starts with seeing the path, so let’s get started!
Last week we talked about the value of teaching through repetition. This week we are connecting the Promised Land to our obedience. The Promised Land produces fruit if properly tended… but obedience to God is directly tied to its productivity. You may be asking, what does The Land have to do with learning lessons 101 times? And what does that have to do with us? This is what we will discuss in this lesson.
Hillel said, “One who reviews his studies one hundred times is not comparable to one who reviews his studies one hundred and one times.” What does this mean? Judaism is a faith of repetition: Shabbat every week, the festivals every year, prayers every day. Why? What is the value of teaching through repetition? Let's learn this together.
The last two teachings have given us a better understanding of the purpose of tests/trials and how our response to them can either open up space for God to move on our behalf or cause us to repeat the same trials over and over. This final message is focused on turning God's interventions into milestones that will help navigate us to our ultimate reward.
In our last message, we talked about the purpose of tests and trials. Now that we know the purpose, we need to figure out how to navigate them. This requires hard work. But if you want to break out of the endless loop of trials and testing that you’re currently in, then you need to learn how to pass your test and “level up” for greater things that God has for you. You can definitely do it, but you’ll never know if you’re not aware of what the Lord is trying to tell you.
Life has its twists and turns and is constantly full of surprises. We all have to endure tests and trials to various degrees. Are they an attempt to destroy us or is there a greater purpose they serve? How are we supposed to stay focused on the spiritual side of life when things are falling apart all around us? Part one of this series takes a look at trials and their purpose in each of our lives.
We all want to be “happy.” In the last three parts of this series, Rabbi Damian taught you practical, biblical ways to work toward this goal in your life. This concluding episode brings it all together with the most important components of a happy, content life and challenges you to consider—and possibly change—“who you are listening to.”
Korach provides us with a perfect example of what NOT to do if we expect to be content in this life. Entitlement, lack of humility, and comparison are all fatal flaws in his attitude. It’s what he’s missing that makes the biggest difference. We’ll explore some connections and make life-changing applications in this message.
In Part 1, we learned about not letting the grumblers and complainers get us down. But there’s a more important part of this battle that needs to be explored. You must become the master of your own thinking. Here’s how to do it.
The children of Israel were headed for the Land. The goal was about to be realized. All was going well and then… the complaining. In hindsight, we know the outcome. The negative chatter derailed the mission and the hope. Poor Israel, right? Well, we’re just as vulnerable. Who are you listening to?
Judaism asks questions. Even in things that are presumed to be good and holy. We ask questions to understand and apply. The Nazirite vow is no exception. It’s described as a good thing in Torah, how could there be any other way to view it?! We’ll investigate the discussion that has occurred through the ages and find a modern application along the way.
Is Shavuot really the time of the giving of the Torah? We examine the Torah to see what it say explicitly about the holiday, what the rabbis have created, and where to find the most significant evidence behind the connection of Torah and the Festival of Shavuot.
Part 4 of "He Died That I Might Live…" concludes the series by putting practical application to what we have learned in the last three sessions: How now shall we live?
The Omer controversy seems completely irrelevant to our lives in 2023. But digging beneath the argument itself, we discover something amazing about freedom. This Shavuot message takes a concluding look at the omer, the manna, and the loaves of Shavuot to point us to happiness in our lives.
Counting the Omer is controversial. This argument goes way back, too. Sadducees (along with others like them) were fighting this out with the Pharisees in Yeshua’s time. Amazingly, it still goes on. We’ll learn here about the argument, some evidence for a position, and lay the groundwork for an upcoming Shavuot message that will hit home for us all.
You shall count. 49 days of counting. Sickle to grain. Waving an offering. It’s omer time again. But why? What does this mean for me? This message brings some revelation and perspective that should help.
The biblical festivals in Leviticus 23 are often called the Jewish holidays, but the text clearly identifies them as God’s appointed times. So whose are they? The Lord’s or the Jewish people’s? Of course, the Jewish answer is “Yes”. This teaching explores the implication for what this means.
Join Darren & Sabrina Huckey as they share about the recent Shalom Macon Israel Tour and the spiritual lessons they took away from their experience as Messianic Gentiles in the Land of the Jewish People.
Tzaraat, or biblical leprosy, is a bizarre disease of many different forms. It infects houses, furniture, clothes, and people… what is it? Why did the Torah have the priesthood diagnose and treat this instead of the physicians? Why do the Torah and Apostolic Writings use the words “purified” or “cleansed” instead of “healed” when someone is cured from it? And what possible application does this have for us today?
We often assume we understand the atoning work of Yeshua. But we might have some misunderstanding. Part 3 of this series explains an important function of blood as it relates to covenant and atonement, and connects it powerfully to the work of our Messiah.
Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins. It’s a foundational thought for many believers, drawn from Hebrews 9. Is that true? We’ll answer that question in this teaching.
This is the introduction to a short and powerful series on sacrifices, the blood of forgiveness, and the work of Messiah Yeshua.
In the midst of one of the most exciting and eventful portions in the Torah, we find a couple brief references to the Shabbat. Why does the Sabbath deserve any attention in this parsha? Turns out it’s one of the most important lessons God is teaching us here.
The Bible is about God. But curiously, the mention of God is starkly absent in the book of Esther. Was this removed from the text as the Septuagint translation seems to suggest? Or is there a deeper lesson we are supposed to be learning from the intentional absence of God's overt presence?
God gave specific instructions for the meeting place He desired His people to build. Very specific! So specific that many people gloss over or skip these “Tabernacle” chapters all together. Would God spend so much time explaining something that had no value? Of course not, but what is the value, especially today? Let’s find out together.
This week's Torah portion presents a bit of a problem. God had just brought the Children of Israel out of Egypt and released them from slavery to Pharaoh. Yet our current Torah portion opens with God giving them instructions on how to handle their slaves. How do we reconcile these two seemingly opposing concepts in the framework of God's goodness and mercy?
In parsha Yitro, Moses learns a valuable lessons about leadership and delegation from an unlikely source — his Midianite father-in-law, Jethro. But through this, Moses teaches us an even more important lesson about humility and how to become wise in this life.
Few people know that Judaism celebrates a new year for trees called Tu Bishvat. The next logical question many would ask is, “Why?!” It all starts with Torah, but there are many beautiful lessons we can glean from this special day. We’ll discuss them in this two-part teaching.
Last week was Moses' fear. This week, it’s his failure. But you might say, “Moses didn’t fail!” We can say that because we know the end of the story. But along the way, Moses clearly struggled and his persistence teaches lessons about what it takes to succeed when things don’t go our way.
Moses is the Torah’s great hero. His story begins this week in Parsha Shemot. But Moses’ hero journey does not seem to get off to a great start. Between arguing with God about why he can’t do it and then failing to convince Pharaoh to let Israel go, Moses seems destined for failure. He has some lessons to learn and some hard steps to take on the way to his status as hero. His journey though this is a lesson for us all in conquering fear and failure.
In this closing portion of Genesis, Joseph again demonstrates his extraordinary character in dealing with his brothers. It’s captured in just one line of Torah, but the lessons are life-changing as we consider our interactions each and every day and how we are all connected in the stories of our lives.
The Midrash connects Amos 9:13—"the plowman shall overtake the reaper"—with Judah's confrontation of Joseph at the beginning of this week's Torah portion. It sees this encounter as a foreshadowing of the World To Come with Judah representing the plowman and Joseph being the reaper. How does this work and what does it have to do with us? We'll find out together in this message on the Torah portion of Vayigash.
There's a Yiddish expression that says, "Man makes plans and God laughs." While that may not be entirely accurate, we often find that our plans don't always line up with what God has in mind. The straight path toward what we perceive as our goal often winds around the forest and climbs through valleys and over mountains before ever reaching sight of that goal. Joseph's life was the perfect example of life taking unexpected turns. But yet, through it all he was able to give God glory. How? We'll discuss in this message on the Torah portion of Mikeitz.
How could an unmarried woman who dresses up as a prostitute and seduces a man in order to get pregnant be thought of as acting righteously? The story of Tamar and Judah certainly raises some questions that we’ll consider in this message.
The Jacob and Esau conflict reaches its climax in Vayishlach. Why did Jacob cross the Jabbok ford? What’s up with the pugilistic angel? A unique consideration on Jacob’s wrestling match offers some incredible insight into our own daily struggles.
Situations arise in life that create a dilemma for us — "Should I stay or should I go?" In other words, do I sit still and wait on God to move or should I take an action to get things going? We know the story of “the deception” involving Jacob. But who was actually behind the decision to take action? Was it a good move? What if it hadn’t been done? Behind the answer to those questions is an application for our lives that we’ll uncover in this teaching.
From a surface reading of the story of Jacob and Esau, it really seems Esau got the short end of the stick by being cheated out of the double-portion entitled to the firstborn. But we never read about Jacob receiving this either. What he receives is given by God and it's far greater than material blessings. Join us as we unravel this complex story of brothers and birthrights.
In the Torah portion of Chayei Sarah, Abraham purchased a field and a burial curve for his beloved wife, Sarah. But in reality it was so much more. Abraham, the father of many, had an incredible eye for the future and for the generational mission he had been given. Shalom Macon is taking a lesson from Abraham in this. Learn all about it here.
Abraham is affectionately called Avraham Avinu, "Our Father Abraham." Paul says he is the father of "all who believe." Is this just a title or are there expectations that come along with being children of Abraham? Our Torah portion reveals a lot to help us answer this question.
Noah’s success in the mission of survival was a great success. But there was a second mission, revival. How did he do? Was Noah the hero that God was looking for? The Torah uses small clues to point to the answer.
It’s at the top of the list of favorite Bible stories — Noah’s Ark. It’s obvious that righteous Noah had a big job to do, a mission from God to build this boat and survive the flood. He was faithful to the task. But Noah had multiple missions and the Torah makes them pretty clear if we look carefully. This teaching explores the multiple missions of Noah and how well he succeeded in accomplishing them.
As the Torah cycle starts with Genesis, we once again marvel at the mystery and majesty of creation. One mystery is particularly unique. The text says, "Let us create man in our image." This teaching explores interpretations of this curious text, introduces a challenging new interpretation and reveals a profound shadow of the messiah.
After the High Holidays, we made some decisions and commitments to take action to become our better self. There’s always one challenge that rears its head as we move forward in this direction. The sages of Israel use the valuable illustration of the horse and rider to teach about it. In this message, Rabbi Eisner brings that idea home as the conclusion to this series.
You have an illness. Actually more than one illness. It's not just sin, but a host of other maladies that keep you from living up to the potential that God intended for you when He created you. What's the remedy? The Great Physician has it waiting on you if you'll be honest about your symptoms.
When it comes to making resolutions to change, sometimes it feels like a losing battle, a hopeless cause. We look back at the list we made the year before and think, "What's changed?" But if haven't given up, but continued the struggle, we'll eventually see something on our list that has changed. It may be small, but it's progress. And a little progress over time can go a long way to changing your habits and ultimately your identity.
Is all of humanity damned by default because of original sin? This is what traditional Christianity teaches. But what does Judaism teach and where should Messianic Judaism land on the topic? This controversial message addresses this subject going all the way back to the very definition of sin.
Too often we try to break bad habits or change patterns of behavior but fail. Why is this? Maybe it's because we haven't dealt with the root of it all: our identity.
It’s the season for making improvement. It’s important to have a realistic expectation of what we can accomplish in the process. Perfection is always a goal, but progress is a valuable step along the way.
The Hebrew month of Elul is upon us. The High Holy Days are approaching. We are supposed to be preparing for judgment. That means forgiving and forgetting, right? Wrong. How so? Come join us as we explore this sensitive topic together.
Today we continue the the story of Shalom Macon, transitioning from the divine "No" to the "Yes" we were waiting for. Come join us on the journey as we continue to transition from who we were to who we are as a Messianic community.
Shabbat Nachamu is a special Sabbath that marks the beginning of seven special Haftarah readings, the Seven Consolations after Tisha B'Av leading up to the High Holy Days. Shabbat Nachamu is very special to Shalom Macon for a specific purpose. Join us to find out why.
Is it ever okay to be zealous for God's Torah? Didn't God deliver Paul from that by showing him that grace has superseded law? Or are we missing something very important here? How does Yeshua's command to love co-exist with zeal for God's Torah? It's critical we understand this important message.
Moses demonstrates zeal by a striking a rock and is punished. Pinchas zealously spears two people and is rewarded. Seems like a contradiction right? This week we’ll learn about zeal from a still, small voice with a lot to teach.
After the incident with Korach and the budding of Aaron’s staff, we have hope that the people have had their last complaining session. But then, they’re thirsty again and Moses and Aaron are faced with another uprising which results in one of the sadder moments in all of the Torah. Moses ends up striking the rock rather than speaking to it as he was instructed. It’s the culmination of Moses’ trouble, filled with lessons we must all learn. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/n8hKP3U_xFU
The laws of purity and impurity, and especially the strange rituals of the Red Heifer can be completely foreign to most people in our day and age. But we should learn about them because of this little known fact: unknowingly, every disciple of Yeshua has a Red Heifer in our pocket. Want to know more? Join us for this thought-provoking teaching on the Torah portion of Chukat.
To this point in the book of Numbers Moses has had plenty of trouble leading the people. Over the last couple of weeks, we’ve discussed his responses and the toll it took on him as a leader. This week he faces his greatest personal trouble as he deals with Korach and the rebels. As always, he has much to teach us.
Last week we discussed Moses' problem with the grumblers and complainers. This week things go from bad to worse as Moses deals with the "spies" who come back with a slanderous report about the Land God had promised to give Israel. What can we learn from this?
The book of Numbers starts off pretty well. This week we read about the nation setting out from Sinai for the Promised Land. But pretty quickly things head south, and not in a navigational sense. Moses does find himself navigating, but it’s both national and personal crises that have grave consequences in the end.
Is Messianic Judaism at odds with the Church? In particular, is Shalom Macon at odds with Christianity? How should Messianic followers of Yeshua view Christianity? Join Rabbi Damian as he addresses this touchy subject in order to bring unity among the disciples of Yeshua.
What is an omer? Why does counting it matter? Why should we pay attention to something that was done during the Temple days? What does this have to do with Yeshua? Let’s find out!
What is an omer? Why does counting it matter? Why should we pay attention to something that was done during the Temple days? What does this have to do with Yeshua? Let’s find out!
The New Testament is called inerrant, i.e, incapable of being wrong. However, there is at least one problem with that statement and critics are quick to point it out: there are conflicting reports of the timeline of the Messiah’s crucifixion. The Synoptic Gospels tell a seemingly different story than the Gospel of John. If we hope to defend the word “inerrant,” we should understand what the differences are, why they’re problematic, and how we might reconcile. them. Join us as we work to find a resolution in Part 2 of The Crucifixion Contradiction.
The New Testament is called inerrant, i.e, incapable of being wrong. However, there is at least one problem with that statement and critics are quick to point it out: there are conflicting reports of the timeline of the Messiah’s crucifixion. The Synoptic Gospels tell a seemingly different story than the Gospel of John. If we hope to defend the word “inerrant,” we should understand what the differences are, why they’re problematic, and how we might reconcile. them. That’s what we’ll do.
Passover is a season of joy, a celebration of the redemption of the people of Israel. Yet the Mishnah says we should begin telling the story with the “disgrace“ of it. This seems odd. But there’s actually a powerful reason for it, especially applicable to disciples of Yeshua. Join us for this discussion.
Jesus declared all foods clean. Seems pretty straightforward. Hence the fact that at Easter in North America, the number one meat consumed is ham. It’s an ironic twist. But if Jesus truly did change everything around, what's the problem? No condemnation here but we should definitely have a talk. :)
Like it or not, you are an animal. It’s a jarring consideration, no doubt. It’s not all you are, but that animal instinct does make up a part of you. The first step to overcoming it is to acknowledge it. In Part Two of Lessons In Leviticus, we’ll discuss how the Torah's sacrificial system leads us toward taming that animal inside us and living a life for God and our fellow human.
Did Yeshua come to get rid of the sacrificial system? Isn't that what he mean when he quoted Hosea by saying, "I desire mercy, and not sacrifice"? The answer may surprise you. Join us in this challenging series to learn more about the purpose and function of the sacrificial system, particularly how Yeshua would have viewed it.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/apedVAEDUMk
God is mercy. God is justice. We know that Yeshua demonstrates the “fullness of deity” as Colossians says, which suggests that he, too, would represent both mercy and justice. His death and resurrection clearly demonstrates mercy toward us. But what role did the cross play in restoring justice? This is a very significant concept that every believer should understand. We’ll examine it together in this message.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1afslMZVvJ0
“I am not ashamed of the name above names.” These are some of the lyrics to a well-known worship song. It speaks of the exalted status of Yeshua and the Father’s apparent acknowledgment that Messiah’s name is above all. However, there’s a problem. Yeshua himself never says or even suggests this. Have we missed something in the interpretation of Philippians 2:9? Let's find out together.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/s-rDJCvBPfU
Part 2 of this series explores some similarities between the story of the golden calf and the crucifixion of the Messiah. Both were rooted in rejection of God’s offer to live in a just world. Last week we saw Moses intercede for mercy beyond justice. This week we look at Yeshua doing the same thing, and then some!
When God hands man perfection we tend to soil it pretty quickly. In the garden we chose to disobey the one rule God gave us. At Sinai we said we would obey, but chose the opposite instead. Both Moses and Yeshua pleaded for Hashem's mercy to be poured out on humanity to save us from the consequences of our actions. How do these two individuals work together to help us turn from our self-destructive nature? Tune in to find out.
Jesus Lives In My Heart. It’s a beautiful concept. I invited Jesus into my heart and he lives inside me. Where does that come from. Is that true? Could it be that the Torah and the exhaustive instructions about the Tabernacle have influenced this idea. You might be surprised.
Watch: https://youtu.be/Yq5NIAK2K9g
Parsha Terumah takes us into the seemingly monotonous and extravagant detail surrounding the construction and function of the Mishkan, the Tabernacle. No other subject receive more Torah real estate than this, but most people don’t even read it. Why? They have no connection to its deeper meaning and personal relevance. If God thinks the Tabernacle is this important, maybe we should too. Let’s discuss.
The Torah can be confusing, especially to our Western minds. But the difficulty was accounted for by the author of the Torah! A system of interpretation was set in place from Mt. Sinai. Sadly, it was lost or rejected by the early church. We’ll discuss how, why, and what we can do about it.
When Jethro saw how Moses was handling the needs of the Children of Israel in the wilderness, he told him, "What you're doing is not good!" There is something insidious that we are doing today that is also "not good." The problem is that, like Moses, most of us don't know we are doing it, nor do we truly understand the consequences.
Have you ever stood at the shore of a massive sea wondering how to cross it, but knowing that if you didn't there was a blood-thirsty army ready to kill you if you didn't? Chance are, you probably haven’t. However, it’s a particularly epic part of the Exodus story and hard to imagine. And yet, in a way, we face similar choices in our lives today. It is in these times of great decision we must all decide whether we will be Victims or Victors.
Honestly, what’s so great about the Exodus? What makes it special? What's up with all of the plagues and did God really harden Pharaoh's heart? Isn't that like stacking the cards? Join us as we take a look at these questions and more in a deep dive into the Torah portion called Bo, Exodus 10:1–13:16.
There's absolutely no feeling in the world like falling in love! But what happens when those feelings aren't there any more? When people come to Yeshua they experience all of the same emotions as they do when falling in love. What can Messianic Judaism teach us about keeping the flame of our love burning, even when we don't experience the same euphoria as we did when we first fell in love? Whether in your marriage or your relationship with Yeshua, there is an answer that you need to hear that will allow you to successfully navigate the rollercoaster ride we call love.
At end of every calendar year people all over the world start creating their "New Year's Resolutions." Unfortunately, most of these resolutions fail not too long after they are started because ultimately they aren't a priority. This year, let's create new spiritual habits that will start a New Year's REVOLUTION instead!
Whether we realize it or not, we are in the middle of a war. No, not one country against another, but a spiritual war where spiritual powers battle one another. Does that affect us? What should we be doing to assist the powers of light to overcome the powers of darkness? Join us as we explore this sobering topic.
Why is something as bitter as coffee so wildly popular, yet fasting is the polar opposite in the polls? We've spent four weeks discussing the biblical festivals. But what about the biblical fasts? And why would anyone want to do that anyway? Join us this Shabbat as we learn about the biblical fast days and how they apply to our fast-paced, modern lives.
Party Like Jesus! Part 4 -Yeshua & The Fall Festivals by Shalom Macon - Messianic Jewish Teaching
"Resistance is Futile" - This famous line from the popular Star Trek television series was not coined by the Borg, but was the battle cry of Antiochus IV, the antagonist of the Hanukkah story. Well, maybe not, but you'll definitely see the correlation in this inspirational message for Hanukkah!
As we’ve observed thus far, the biblical festivals are a gift from God to his people. They are times of connection and celebration. But they also tell a miraculous story—a story of redemption that was and redemption that will be. This story begins with the spring festivals.
If we believe the Bible, it’s an indisputable fact that God identified days of celebration and remembrance for His people. And yet, the majority of the followers of Jesus have no connection to these days. There are identifiable (and disturbing) historical and political reasons for this, though they are not often discussed. There was a separation from the original path and students of the Bible should know why.
God has special days—no, they're more than special, they’re holy. He established these holy days and called His people to celebrate them. Jesus did. His disciples did. So, what happened? Where did they go? They’re still here and always will be. This series will help you rediscover them.
"Party Like Jesus! Connecting Disciples to God's Holy Days" is a series specifically designed to introduce people to the calendar Jesus would have lived by. Want to learn more about the biblical calendar and how the festivals all work together to paint a picture of God's character and His plan for us? Join us each week in this multi-part series for an eye-opening experience that will forever change how you look at the biblical calendar and festivals.
Why do Jews separate meat and dairy? Didn't Abraham serve his angelic guests meat and milk together? What's all the fuss about and what does it all have to do with me? Isn't all of that rabbinic, manmade manipulation or are you telling me I can't enjoy a cheeseburger? Join Rabbi Damian as we explore this controversial—and often divisive—topic from Vayeira, this week's Torah portion.
Why do Jews separate meat and dairy? Didn't Abraham serve his angelic guests meat and milk together? What's all the fuss about and what does it all have to do with me? Isn't all of that rabbinic, manmade manipulation or are you telling me I can't enjoy a cheeseburger? Join Rabbi Damian as we explore this controversial—and often divisive—topic from this week's Torah portion, Vayeira.
Who are you? What's your name? Simple questions on the surface until we see them through the lens of Abram's first test of faith in this week's Torah portion, Lech Lecha. There's another person inside of you that you really need to get to know. I'll make the initial introduction in this message!
The Midrash tells of a primordial clash between the two great luminaries—the sun and moon—over who would be greatest. It happened on the 4th day of creation. Later, we read the story of the disciples of Yeshua jockeying for position too, “Who is greatest in the kingdom?” The desire for greatness is inside all of us. And that’s a good thing if we know what greatness looks like. The moon has a message for us this week!
The Midrash tells of a primordial clash between the two great luminaries—the sun and moon—over who would be greatest. It happened on the 4th day of creation. Later, we read the story of the disciples of Yeshua jockeying for position too, “Who is greatest in the kingdom?” The desire for greatness is inside all of us. And that’s a good thing if we know what greatness looks like. The moon has a message for us this week!
It’s Christmas time again! Wait… What?! It’s not December 25th! Well, what is "Christmas?" It’s the traditional "celebration" of the birth of Jesus, right? Could it be that this celebration, the birth of Messiah, should be happening now? It’s possible… Join us and let’s explore!
Sukkot—The Feast of Tabernacles—is the "Season Of Our Joy." And it's only a few days away. But sometimes, joy can be difficult to muster, especially in a world that's falling apart around us. Join Rabbi Damian as he helps us "nail down" our joy in preparation for this Sukkot season.
The Sabbath before Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) is called "Shabbat Shuvah," or the Sabbath of Return. It is a day that beckons us to consider the condition of our hearts before we enter the most holy day of the year. The Haftarah (reading from the Prophets) for this Shabbat says, "Take with you words and return to the LORD; say to him…" (Hosea 14:2). What does this mean? What are we supposed to say? What do you need to say? Don't miss your opportunity.
Choose Life is the conclusion of our series on the afterlife. Rabbi Damian wraps up this series by focusing on what matters most: how we live this life. Join us for this valuable conclusion to this challenging series and be encouraged to do what's important.
The Great White Throne. Judgment in Revelation makes it clear that deeds have something to do with our last moments before our final destiny is announced. Judgment of the wicked makes sense but why would believers be there? This message explores the full significance of deeds for the righteous, the wicked, and the controversial “in-betweeners” with a final look at eternal judgment.
Eternal fire that burns, conditional immortality of the soul, oh my! We’re hitting the heavy stuff but there’s more to consider. Does God make a way for all to be saved? Meet the universalists.
What happens after judgment? Particularly to the wicked? History offers a broad set of answers to this question, falling mainly within three theological camps. We’ll investigate a couple of them in this teaching.
Thus far we’ve considered some of the early formations of the belief in the afterlife from a Jewish perspective. But these beliefs and theological attitudes began to change at some point in the early history of the believing community of disciples. One of our main developments centered on the fate of the wicked. This week continues our look at these emerging ideas and how they contributed to the formation of hell as it is known today.
Matthew 25, John 5, and 1 Corinthians 15 all talk about the final judgment and what it will be like. But there are debates over how these passages should be interpreted. What will the Final Judgment be like and how should we understand Yeshua's and Paul's teachings on the subject? Only through looking at these passages and others with brutal honesty can we hope to truly understand anything about this difficult topic.
Continuing in our examination of Yeshua's parable of Lazarus And The Rich Man, we see a lot of overlap with the literature of greater Judaism and we learn several lessons that are a little unexpected. As we look deeply into this parable we’ll see that Yeshua's message was more about life before death than life after death. Come learn these important lessons with us.
The story of The Rich Man and Lazarus in Abraham’s Bosom has often been identified as the definitive picture of the afterlife according to Yeshua. From the idea of the “harrowing of hell” to the basis for belief in eternal conscious torment, so many post-mortem perspectives have been hatched here. Is this Yeshua’s final word on final destiny? We’ll see!
Believe it or not, most people are addicted to something. It may not be drugs or alcohol. It could be television, Facebook, Snapchat, or a smartphone. What makes us addicted to these things and how can we turn those cravings into something positive? How can recognizing and confronting those addictions help us become better disciples of Yeshua?
Hades, Sheol, Tartarus, Hell, Gehenna … it’s all very confusing. How do we know what’s up? Well, we need to go down to figure out what’s up! This message takes a look at a prominent perspective in 2nd Temple Judaism on what awaits the soul after death.
When you begin to dig into it, the concept of the New Testament “hell” becomes quite confusing. To understand it, we need to investigate an earlier understanding of death and the hereafter as described in Jewish thought from the Tanach.
As we’ve learned, progressive revelation contributed to the understanding of the soul in Second Temple Judaism. This way of thinking heavily influenced the period and its religious thinkers in another profoundly important area: the resurrection of the dead.
Greek Philosopher, A.N. Whitehead once said, “The safest general characterization of the European philosophical tradition is that it consists of a series of footnotes to Plato.” What if that’s true even in Judeo-Christian thought about heaven and hell? Could God actually speak through a 4th-century philosopher? We’ll see …
Where do we go when we die? This is THE question for so many people through the ages. It’s the question on the lips of the evangelist to the lost soul, “If you died today, do you know where you would end up?” And by most accounts, there are two answers—Heaven or Hell. This challenging, and likely controversial, series will evaluate and question what you think you know about life after death, heaven and hell, and eternal destiny.
The Fourth elementary principle is about the "laying on of hands." Simple, right? That’s how people get healed … Maybe there’s more to discuss?
Is Israel really the aggressor in the Middle East conflict? Is Israel really an apartheid state? Do Palestinians have any rights in Israel? Are Jews pulling the strings behind the economic rise and fall of nations the world over? Let's have some honest answers to these questions, rather than the uninformed social media bantering that has made its mark on millions of impressionable minds. Let's discover the truth about Israel and why Israel matters in God's economy.
This is really what it all comes down to: What do we do with the Spirit we have received? All the talk of theology, history, and practice is useful in identifying how we’ve gotten to the current point of many people’s understanding of that answer. There are some problems with it as discussed. But what should the body of believers look like when the Spirit is functioning as intended. What does the fruit of the Spirit mean for us today?
How do we use the gifts of the Spirit? They are so very important and they get a lot of recognition, supposed use, and … abuse. In Evidence of the Spirit, Part 4: The Gifts, we examine what the Holy Spirit is NOT. More than simply being critical, this is a heart-warming, personal approach to the work of the Holy Spirit.
In this continuing look at the Spirit of God, we discuss three reasons for the strong desire to “have” the Holy Spirit: excitement, energy, and experience. We also begin to explore the spiritual gifts in our modern times.
One-fourth of the world’s Christian community is connected to some version of Pentecostalism. That means they have had, and still have, a LOT of influence on how the Holy Spirit has been understood. Is this good? Where did Pentecostalism derive their understanding? Has it affected our own? We should find out!
The spring holidays of God’s calendar are in full swing and the Festival of Weeks is fast approaching. Most people know the holiday as Pentecost, celebrating the giving of the Holy Spirit. It’s a day of great significance in the community of Yeshua’s disciples. But there’s something missing. A Torah understanding will help us find it. This series will take us into a more meaningful celebration of God’s appointed time, Shavuot, and a more powerful experience with the Holy Spirit.
Father Time has been murdered and you have 24 hours to find the killer. But little do you know that once the villain is apprehended, his victim will be miraculously resurrected from the dead. No, this isn't a murder mystery or an escape room. It's a lesson of missed opportunities and misplaced priorities. It's about a special time between Passover and Pentecost that contains blessings that many people miss out on. Can time die? Can it be resurrected? Join Darren Huckey as he explores this mystery and helps us learn a valuable lesson about Counting the Omer.
Yeshua’s disciples are looking forward to sharing a meal with him. It’s called the Wedding Feast of the Lamb and it’s going to be a doozy of a celebration. But what can we do until then? Shouldn’t we be living with excitement and expectation in the present? Of course, but how? Judaism has an answer and it’s a beautiful celebration connected to Passover, centered on Messiah, and filled with hope for redemption.
We’ve been through a lot over the last year. 2020’s Passover celebration was really anything but celebratory. That was then, this is now. Passover starts this Saturday night and after basically missing the holiday last year, what can we do in 2021 to make it the most meaningful seder we’ve had? Can a year of COVID help us be more grateful? It’s possible!
WWJD? We’ve spent the last 5 weeks understanding what He would do—No, even better, what He did. That question has been answered. It’s in the Gospels. There’s a more important question—once we know what Jesus did, what are we going to do? The series' conclusion offers some insights and encouragement for our journey together in Messiah.
Did Jesus have the authority to change the Sabbath? The answer seems obvious, right? Ever heard it said that Jesus was a rebel, intent on tearing down traditions of men, and at war with the Jewish leaders of his time? Maybe you’ve also noticed that one of the main topics where Jesus seemed to come to blows with the Jewish leadership of his day was the Sabbath? He’d had enough of bondage and legalism that the common people were being put under and he was going to turn over some tables and fix the problem. And why not? After all, he’s Lord of the Sabbath. But this answer has serious implications that you might not have heard about. This message will make sure you do.
Last week we considered the background of Jesus teaching by looking at the Jewish root from which it sprung. This message discusses some specific examples — Sabbath, dietary laws, and even the message of the Gospel itself — to show how Jesus’ words stayed connected with the word of God spoken in Torah. And maybe more importantly, to show that he never set out to change what God has previously said, only to return his people to it.
The word "Rabbi" means "teacher." The word has a somewhat different connotation today than in the 1st Century. Jesus was a "rabbi", which means he taught. But what was he teaching? Did he come with a radical new message designed to upend his disciples from the Jewish faith they knew? Was he waging war against the Pharisees and their Jewish teaching? Or was he sharing a message rooted in Judaism, that resonated within the Jewish world he sought to impact?
WWJD — What Would Jesus Do? In its day, this acronym connected deeply with disciples of Yeshua, and the reason is obvious — we want to do what Jesus did, right? But what if the world has no real idea what he actually did? What if the Jesus we think we’re emulating wouldn’t actually recognize the things we do? Part of knowing Jesus is to understand the life he lived on this earth, his Jewish life, and consider how that should matter to us.
We all know about the Great Commission. But what about the Great Omission? It sounds so simple and obvious: The Jewish Jesus. But this essential truth has been lost to nearly all of his followers. Why has the Jewishness of Jesus been downplayed or even denied throughout a large part of history? Why is this one simple fact critical to our relationship with him? Join Rabbi Damian as he walks us through the history of anti-Semitism, Replacement Theology, and the reinvention of Jesus in the first installment of our mini-series, The Jewish Jesus.
“Baptizing them in the name of …” These are familiar words with a very powerful message behind them. The meaning and significance of baptism “in the name of …” would have been communicated to new disciples in the elementary principle known as “instructions about washings.” After this message, you’ll know what they knew.
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” It’s the Great Commission and its central to the instruction is to “baptize.” Is it a surprise that an Elementary Principle of Messiah then would be “instructions about washings?” No, but how much do we actually understand even the basics of this process? It’s not what you might think.
“They believed in the Lord and also in his servant, Moses.” That’s Exodus 14. In John 14, Yeshua says, “Believe in God, believe also in me.” Wow! That’s pretty similar. But Moses and Jesus? What do they have to do with each other? You’ve likely heard this answer — absolutely nothing. That’s wrong. Seeing the similarities illuminates so much and that’s the purpose of this teaching which concludes the elementary principle of faith toward God.
There is likely nothing more important in the relationship between God and his people or between Messiah and his disciples than faith. It is certainly no surprise to see it listed among the “elementary principles of Messiah” in Hebrews 6. But do we really understand what it means to have “faith in God” as Hebrews describes it? Is my belief in God the same as my faith toward Him? This is our topic in the 8th installment of "Got Milk?".
Considering the January 6 assault on Congress that ended in 4 deaths, as well as new outbreaks and mutations of the COVID-19 virus and other current events leading to panic and confusion across the globe, can we really be certain God is in control? In the United States we have the motto, "In God We Trust" written on our currency. But do we really believe this if we consider our responses to recent events? Join Rabbi Damian as he shares a word of clarity and comfort to help us through these dark and uncertain times.
Does the Bible condone slavery? Was the United States founded on slavery? Is the concept of biblical slavery any different than what we saw in our country before the Civil War? Join Lance Slater as he expounds on each of these questions in his eye-opening message, "Is Slavery Kosher?"
What is true repentance? It’s certainly important, so If we’re supposed to do it, we better know what it means, right? This teaching focuses on the traditional Christian understanding of repentance as a change of mind and compares that with word’s fullest meaning as intended by Messiah Yeshua and the Apostles.
Repentance is where it begins. It’s the foundation of the gospel. It’s the first of six elementary principles the author of Hebrews says we must know and live by: repentance from “dead works.” But what does this mean? The common interpretations of dead works suggest we must change our mind and stop doing things to try to earn salvation. We’ve got to repent from this behavior that surely kills! Is this correct? Would the audience of Hebrews have understood this interpretation? More importantly, what does it mean for us today as we attempt to understand the basics, the “milk” we’re called to know and to teach?
Thus far, we’ve restored the importance of the kingdom and redefined the accurate gospel message. Yeshua called on those who followed him to become “converts” to his message of hope for the future. But what was his message and why? Was it a call to personal salvation above all or was it a cry to a nation to return to God? The answer is, “Yes” and this installment will help you see it clearly.
Is the church the Kingdom? Possibly one of the most important messages you will ever hear, "Replacing the Kingdom" helps us to understand the thread that was pulled to unraveled a large portion of Yeshua's Gospel message. By examining church history we can see how the promises God made to Israel were appropriated by the church and the Scriptures lost their literal meaning and became simply stories and allegories to support anti-Jewish theology. How then do we address the question of whether or not Yeshua brought the Kingdom? Join Rabbi Damian in this powerful message that is purposed to re-center our beliefs, hopes, and teachings on what Yeshua considered of utmost importance.
In our last sermon, we acknowledged that the Gospel message being proclaimed by most believers today was lacking a central component: the Kingdom. Why was this essential component lost in the centuries following the resurrection of Yeshua? Was it because it was too Jewish? Why is the Kingdom crucial to the Gospel message? Join Rabbi Damian as he unravels this ancient mystery and helps us to look forward to the fulfillment of the long-awaited prophecies anticipated by Yeshua and his disciples.
In our discussion of the "Elementary Principles" of the book of Hebrews, we can't escape the nagging question, "How is this relevant to the Gospel?" Yes, the Gospel, the Good News, is central to everything Yeshua and his disciples taught. But is the Gospel being preached from our pulpits today the same Good News Yeshua and his disciples proclaimed? And if it isn't why isn't it? Join Rabbi as he peels back centuries of misinformation to reveal the heart of the Gospel message absent from our modern evangelistic efforts.
The author of the book of Hebrews says that his audience is "dull of hearing" and can't handle deep teaching. He says they "need milk, not solid food." Are we in any better position to understand the great mysteries of God two thousand years later or are we in an even worse condition—one that doesn't even understand the "milk" that the author speaks of: repentance from dead works, faith toward God, instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And if we think we understand these things, do we understand them as the earliest disciples would have? Join Rabbi Damian in this introduction to the Elementary Principles of the book of Hebrews as we spend several weeks working to understand these from a thoroughly biblical, and therefore Jewish, perspective.
The world is being turned on its head. We live in a time of uncertainty and fear. Powershift in governments, the continued worldwide COVID epidemic, and economic instability are all sending signals of doom and dismay. Do we have any hope? Is there anything we do about it? How should we react? What is our responsibility? Join Rabbi Damian as he tackles these difficult questions in order to bring some much needed shalom to disciples of Yeshua. You'll be challenged and encouraged, instructed and uplifted to be able to face the uncertainty of the days ahead.
The United States is divided now more than we have seen in a very long time. Much of the division is over who should be the Commander In Chief at the end of this year's elections. Will the United States go belly-up if "the other candidate" wins the election? Does God really want Candidate X or Candidate Y to be president? In all of the political turmoil of our day, there are still answers waiting to be given by a loving and caring God. Join Rabbi Damian in part two of this important message as he helps us navigate the turbulent waters of our immediate future with shalom.
Ecclesiastes 1:9 says, "What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun." But is this true? Aren't we challenged with unique situations in our generation that previous generations were not faced with? In a time charged with political and social unrest, truth and comfort can still be found in the Torah and in the teachings of Yeshua. Join Rabbi Damian as he explains how to listen to their common voice of truth.
Have you ever been lost and desperate to find your way back home? There are so many lost souls in this world and Hashem longs for their return. But it's up to us to help them find their way home. Travis Fisher was one of those lost souls — until he had a radical, life-changing experience with Yeshua. His honest, hard-hitting, no-frills testimony has touched many lives. Yours could be one of them.
What is Shemini Atzeret? What's so special about this holiday that the Torah establishes at the end of the Festival of Sukkot (Tabernacles)? How is it the perfect conclusion to the Fall Festivals? Join Rabbi Damian as he looks into this seemingly obscure holiday to reveal a very intimate connection to our Heavenly Father and His love for us.
When we pray, what do we pray for? Most of the time it's about our own needs. Sure, we pray for others, but do we really have their well-being in mind as the pinnacle of our desire? Are we focused on what we need disproportionately to what others need? The world is crumbling around us and it is our responsibility as both disciples of Yeshua and upholders of Torah to impact this world for the good. In this special message prepared for Shabbat Shuvah (the Sabbath of Turning), Rabbi Damian calls us to a higher level of responsibility as disciples of our Master. Will you accept the challenge?
On Rosh Hashanah we blow the shofar (ram's horn) as a remembrance according to Leviticus 23:24. But what are we supposed to remember? There are many ideas of what we are supposed to be remembering, but did we forget what Hashem wants us to remember most? Join Rabbi Damian on this thought-provoking and soul-searching take on the traditional understanding of Rosh Hashanah and the sounding of the shofar.
Symbols are created to invoke a connection between people and a concept. Although they were created with specific ideals in mind, both the American flag and the Israeli flag evoke a wide variety of emotions, from love to hate, in people across the world. There are many biblical symbols, such as matzah and the chanukkiah, that represent various concepts that teach us something. But there is one symbol that can awaken our hearts and turn our past failures into assets. What is it? Join Rabbi Damian to find out in this timely message for our days.
The Torah commands, "Thou Shalt Not Murder" as one of the "Big Ten." Andy Stanley says this commandment has no bearing in the life of a disciple of Yeshua. And although Rabbi Damian takes issue with his position on this, he believes we should actually break this commandment when necessary. Are you confused yet? Join Rabbi Damian for this persuading call to drastic action against an ancient foe.
Why do we sin? As regenerated disciples of Yeshua, why do we still struggle with sin? Shouldn't we be over that aspect of our lives? Does the devil make us do it? Or is there something else going on that we need to be aware of in order to begin conquering sin in our lives? Why do we confess our sins leading up to and during the High Holidays? Isn't Yeshua's sacrifice sufficient? Join Rabbi Damian as he dives into the Hebrew of the Shema to reveal the tactics of our enemy and gives us tools to be overcomers in our struggle with sin. This is a message you won't want to miss!
"Lean in! You just gotta lean in!" Are you tired of hearing people say that? Let's be honest: sometimes we just don't want to make the effort and we don't want to be pushed in our spiritual walk. We're fine just the way we are. But this is a dangerous place to remain. This is why the shofar is sounded every day of the Hebrew month of Elul — to awaken our slumbering souls. God always has something better for us, but He won't fight us. It's our responsibility to draw near to Him so that He can draw near to us and do amazing things in our life. It's time to "lean in" move to a better and more intimate relationship with our Creator.
In Deuteronomy 11:26, God tells the Children of Israel, "See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse." Shouldn't it be "a blessing OR a curse"? How can they both be tied to one another? Is God a god of justice or is He a god of mercy? Are all of the curses stripped away from believers in Yeshua, or do we still have to make right choices to avoid the curses and receive the promised blessings? Is it an "either-or" situation or, is God the god of "and"? Join Rabbi Damian as he helps us navigate these delicate waters to view God's grace and our responsibility with transparency.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/N0E_xoHt6YE
Was the contemporary Christian worship song, "Mighty To Save" written by Messianics? Probably not, but it almost seems so based on the theme of this wildly popular worship song. The Amidah is the prayer most central to Judaism, prayed at least three times daily. The lyrics of Mighty To Save seem to echo the cry of one of the section of the Amidah that speaks of God's might being displayed in His ability to resurrect the dead, and quite possibly the resurrection of Yeshua. Join Rabbi Damian as he explores one of the most foundational concepts of our faith: the hope of resurrection in Messiah Yeshua.
In these “uncertain times” is your glass half empty or half full? What do you see when you look around? Fear? Dread? Hopelessness? The media knows that fear sells and right now it is flying off the shelves. Is there ANYTHING good in the world right now? Join Rabbi Damian for this message of hope as he challenges us to look beyond what we see with our eyes to what Hashem sees. It's better than what we've been told.
What book did Yeshua quote from more than any other? Deuteronomy, a book whose name means, "Second Law." Most people don't want the original laws, much less a book that repeats them and adds to them. Why was Yeshua so in love with this book? Did he quote this book to show that he was doing away with the rules of the Torah and replacing them with the single commandment of love? Join Rabbi Damian as he affirms a central value of Messianic Judaism that all of Yeshua's followers should defend: The Torah is eternally applicable and the source of all New Testament truth.
We all know the saying about sticks and stones and unkind words. We also know the true power of words and how they bring a new reality into existence with them. Harsh and hateful words really do hurt and sometimes they hurt more than physical pain. But what can destroy a heart more than hateful words and do we even realize we are saying them? Join Rabbi Damian as he reveals a painful truth about the words we speak hidden within the story of Balaam and how we can use our words for the good.
Human beings were created with the need to communicate. We all have some innate longing within us to convey our thoughts and feelings, albeit some more than others. We all have a native tongue, a native language. But it may not be the language you think. What language is this Forgotten Language? Join Darren Huckey as he takes us on a journey of exploration, using the Torah, the words of Yeshua, Paul, and the Jewish sages to arrive at an unexpected destination of discovering the Forgotten Language.
One of the most confusing and supra-rational commands in the Torah is regarding the ashes of the Red Heifer. How do the ashes of a cow mixed with water purify from ritual contamination? Is contracting ritual purity sin? Why do the people involved in slaughtering the cow, burning its ashes, or sprinkling them onto a ritually impure person in order to purity them become impure themselves? And what lesson can we learn from all of this in relation to community? John Lance Slater as he brings new insights into this perplexing Torah portion.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ezHskD5E_zY
What's the big deal about the new moon? Why the Scriptures have so much to say about it? Yes, the biblical calendar is set by the new moon, but that doesn't seem to have any practical bearing on us today. Or does it? We just entered the Hebrew month of Tammuz. What is significant about it and how should it help us find hope in this dark hour? Join Rabbi Damian for this inspiring message as he shows how the biblical calendar ties into the seasons of life and how we can find hope through Yeshua in the most difficult times.
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWecLzxUd3I
When asked why Moses was not allowed to enter the Promised Land, most people will respond that it was because he struck the rock in disobedience to Hashem's instructions. But could there be a deeper, more critical reason he was disciplined so severely, and could that same issue be the thorn in the flesh of leaders today? How can we avoid facing similar consequences and what can be done to help resolve the global unrest that currently divides the "civilized" world? Join Rabbi Damian as he cuts to the heart of the matter with a desperate call for leaders to do what they are called to do in this time of crisis: to lead with boldness.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BqSwnUvKDR4
We live in a time of tension and civil unrest. We live in an issue-driven society, where our world is becoming increasingly more polarized. Today issues have become more important than people and being right more than being kind. We are quick to assume, quick to judge, and quick to react. In a world where there seems to be no peace, how are we supposed to find peace and hope? Can we change the world? Maybe or maybe not. But there is one person we can definitely change—ourselves. John Rabbi Damian as he cuts to the heart of the matter and spells out our marching orders as disciples of Yeshua in this honest assessment of the world around us.
In Leviticus, we learned about the laws of ritual impurity, but suddenly they have appeared again in the book of Numbers. Why do the topics of tzara'at (biblical leprosy), zav (emissions), and corpse contamination enter the picture again at the end of the section describing Israel's encampment? Even more interesting is how Ezekiel's vision of the angelic host helps us to unlock this mystery. Join Rabbi Damian as he pulls from the tribal encampments, Ezekiel's vision, and the function of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) to help us understand our purpose in the world and how to accomplish it with excellence. You won't want to miss this intriguing and meaningful message!
Now live streaming on YouTube! Be sure to click “subscribe” button on the “Shalom Macon Live” YouTube page. Then you can return to the same link each week to watch the weekly teaching. https://youtu.be/5hCDjJ7Ojqg
Links to the slides referenced in the teaching: https://www.dropbox.com/s/9ekb4uy7oko0uxx/Camps_of_Israel-800x553.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/v2xddwmslrc9qg5/Camps%20of%20Israel%20with%20BANNERS%20.jpeg?dl=0
On Shavuot (Pentecost) the book of Ruth is read. The story of Ruth gives us examples of several people who had an opportunity to do something that was rewarding, but difficult. What were the results of those who chose the more difficult path versus those who chose the easy path? How can their example help us in our decisions today to draw closer to God and what He desires from us? Join Rabbi Damian as he takes us on the road less traveled to uncover hidden rewards and arrive at an amazing destination.
The first few chapters of the book of Numbers are probably not on many people's favorite reading lists. They are primarily concerned with the results of a census God told Moses to take of the Children of Israel. We read a series of names and numbers for several chapters. Why was this a good thing, yet Israel was punished when David took a census in 2 Samuel? Join Rabbi Damian as he turns this seemingly mundane portion into an exciting lesson about how we are to view and treat others, and how God looks at His children.
Everyone loves the year of Jubilee. Or do they? What could be better than having your debts forgiven and being released from servitude? Isn't freedom and debt-free living the ideal? Why would anyone be opposed to such a system? Join Rabbi Damian as he peels back the surface layers of this biblical principle to reveal hidden resentment in our hearts towards the ways of God and what we can do to correct the problem. If you're open to a message that goes straight to the heart you won't be disappointed.
If you heard the first part of A Tale of Two Goats, you realize we didn't come to a satisfying conclusion. In this message, Rabbi Damian picks up where he left off on the topic of Yom Kippur and makes a comparison between Yeshua and the Kohen Gadol, the High Priest. If Yeshua wasn't literally a sacrifice, and he wasn't the scapegoat, his parallel work to the Kohen Gadol, however, is uncanny—especially when viewed through the perspective of Reish Lakish (an early rabbinic personality) on repentance. Join Rabbi Damian in this exciting message that highlights Yeshua's work as the Kohen Gadol who ministers on our behalf before the throne of the Almighty.
In our series on the book of Hebrews (A Better Covenant), we capitalized on the statement of Hebrews 10:4 that it is "impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins." However, when we read about the Yom Kippur service in Leviticus 16, it seems that this may not be a true statement. Did the blood of the Yom Kippur goats take away sins prior to Yeshua's sacrificial death? Does this make Yeshua's death a substitution for the Yom Kippur offerings? If these are questions you've been curious about, join Rabbi Damian as he helps clarify the work of Yeshua on our behalf in this important message.
The Torah's laws of ritual purity seem completely foreign and restrictive to our modern senses. Why does a mother have to offer a sin offering after giving birth to a baby? What did she do wrong? Is having a baby a sin? Why are there restrictions put on her after childbirth? What's up with all of this ritual impurity and all of these awkward topics? This is where most people quit their commitment to read their Bible from cover to cover. If this is you or you've ever thought these things, Rabbi Damian has some fresh insights to help you reconnect to the Word of God, its living nature, and how it still speaks to us today. Don't miss out on this insightful message.
On the biblical calendar, we have just come out of Passover and are counting the days up to the time of Shavuot (Pentecost). We are between the days of our redemption and the giving of the Torah. We have been freed from the bondage of Pharaoh, but we have not yet experienced the awesome power of Mount Sinai. Unfortunately, most people live their lives in this very state: they have been set free from the bondage of sin, but haven't been released to their true purpose. In this important message of self-discovery, Rabbi Damian reveals the meaning of two primary Hebrew words for freedom and how our understanding of these terms can transform our lives from merely being free from the bondage of sin to living a life of purpose. Please join us as we seek to understand the true message of freedom written on the tablets and given to us as the people of God.
For many, this year's Passover is viewed as a disappointment because of social distancing caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic. We will be isolated to just our families and not be able to celebrate Passover with our communities. But is there something Hashem is wanting to do during this time? Is this time orchestrated by Him in order to get our attention? No, we are not talking about God's judgment being poured out on the earth, but we are talking about using our present circumstances to help us focus on the things that are truly important — the things that may have somehow lost their importance long ago. Join Rabbi Damian as he shared important insights into what God wants to do in our lives during this Passover season.
Leviticus. Sacrifices. Blood. Guts. Dung. Ashes. And this is part of our Bible? Needless to say, the book of Leviticus can be challenging to the modern reader. How are we supposed to engage in a book that deals with things that haven't taken place in nearly 2000 years? Is there anything relevant about this book for the modern disciple? Join Rabbi Damian has he presents these challenging questions and more in order to point us in the proper direction to understand if and how the book of Leviticus should fit into our lives during this day and age. You won't be disappointed.
COVID-19. Coronavirus. Panic. Fear. Stock Market crash. A rush on toilet paper? Where is the sanity in all of this hysteria? Are all of these reactions the wisdom of being prepared or simply a symptom of fear? When life becomes chaotic and overwhelming fear reigns supreme. The best way to regain our bearings in times like these is to seek out wisdom from the Word of God. This week's Torah portion contains a parallel to our current situation. Coincidence or divine providence? Join Rabbi Damian as he makes a surprising connection between the COVID-19 panic and Parashat Ki Tisa, bringing some sanity and spiritual insight into the pandemonium of our global situation, shining the light of the Torah into the bleak darkness of despair.
Coronavirus. COVID-19. Pandemic. Global fear. Over the last few weeks, the world has had its eye on a rising threat that has swept across Europe and Asia and has now entered into the United States. The media has been focused on bringing us the latest updates on the far-reaching effects of this global outbreak. How should followers of Yeshua respond to an international threat such as this? Is there really anything we can do? And what does all of this have to do with Purim? Join Rabbi Damian as he addresses a concern that is at the heart of billions of people across the planet who are desperately searching for an answer to this rising threat. Don't miss this important message and learn how to prepare yourself and others against this global threat.
Why would anyone want to read through the building materials and instructions of an ancient temporary structure like we do throughout large sections of the book of Exodus? Sometimes we have to remember that the Creator of the Universe wants us to come to Him on His terms, rather than ours. The book of Exodus reminds us of these "Terms of Engagement," and teach holy people about holy things. Join Rabbi Damian and engage with the details of the Tabernacle in a way that will ignite your soul.
The reality of life is that this world is harsh, bitter, and full of disappointment. On the other hand, however, the disciples of Yeshua have a hope that sees beyond our present reality and into the future reality of the Messianic Kingdom. If you're struggling to see beyond the pain of your current reality and live a life filled with love, hope, and joy you won't want to miss this inspiring and encouraging message. Join Rabbi Damian as he helps us see the seeds of the Kingdom that are sprouting all around us.
It's time to re-address the age old debate over which day should be observed by followers of Yeshua as a day of rest and holiness. Is it Saturday, the traditional Sabbath described beginning in the book of Genesis? Or has the Saturday Sabbath been changed for followers of Yeshua to an observance of The Lord's Day on Sunday as described in the writings of the Apostles? Join Rabbi Damian as he re-opens this discussion and brings clarity to The Lord's Day from an historical and Scriptural perspective. The answer may be surprising.
Most people think that goals will get you there. Studies show though that if we focus more on transforming our daily routine into habits that will become long-term, problem-solving strategies we can accomplish what might seem impossible. How do habits and HaShem go together? Could it be that God has given us the ability to develop our holiness through habits? Have a listen and see!
As Nachamu Ami transitions to its new identity as Shalom Macon, questions surface about the direction as a congregation. What stays the same, what changes? What will our services look like? What areas of compromise are we willing to make and what are the non-negotiables? Join Rabbi Damian as he answers these important questions to find out how we plan to navigate these waters and help others like yourself do the same.
Everyone claims to be a "first century church." What does this mean and is it even a good thing? How did Jew-Gentile relationships affect the trajectory of the face of Yeshua-centered faith over the course of the last two thousand years? Who were the original "Judaizers," and should we reconsider how this word fits into our current trajectory? Join Rabbi Damian as he unscrambles the mess of the first century and uncovers valuable lessons we can apply to our modern community of faith.
The cat is out of the bag. Nachamu Ami is changing. Why? Is it because we are giving in to compromise? Is it because we are giving up on being a Messianic synagogue? Or is there something deeper at work here? This important message was originally released internally. It’s important for the physical community to be able to digest Rabbi's vision and take ownership in the direction we are heading as a congregation. But you are a part of this community too! Virtual members! So listen and climb on board for the journey ahead. We are going to make an impact in our community, and God-willing to help you impact yours!
We're in a time of uncertainty in our country, our communities, and our congregations. Many are searching for meaning and answers without success. This message is the beginning of an important and honest assessment of Messianic Judaism – past, present, and its not-so-promising future. But this anticipated future assumes that we continue thinking the same thoughts and pursuing the same course of action we always have. Nachamu Ami is not going to be led down this path of deterioration. Join Rabbi Damian in this very important message as he lays a new foundation for an exciting trajectory for our congregation and Messianic Judaism as a whole as we begin to think differently.
When Joseph meets his brothers for the first time in twenty years he seems to treat them very harshly. Why did he do this and what does the Hebrew behind this story teach us about our responsibility to one another as spiritual brothers, sisters, and co-laborers in the Kingdom of Messiah? John Lance Hamel in this insightful and touching exposition of the story of Joseph and his brothers like you've never heard it before.
The story of Hanukkah is about religious freedom, particularly for the Jewish people. However, in every generation there are those who would try to destroy the Torah and all who cling to it. In Messianic Judaism we have a battle to fight against anti-Semitism. However, we also have a battle to fight for Messianic Judaism itself. Join Rabbi Damian in this passionate message about restoring, rededicating, and rebuilding Messianic Judaism from the inside out in the spirit of the Maccabees of the Hanukkah season.
Have you ever made a mistake? A really big mistake? One so big that you had trouble believing God could still be there for you? Believe it or not, the story of Jacob and his ladder can provide some incredible comfort for any of us who have ever found ourselves having to deal with the consequences of big mistakes. If you’ve ever felt the feeling of distance between you and your Father in Heaven because of something you’ve done, join Rabbi Damian as he reminds us who God says we are and what purpose we have in this life.
Many times when tests come our way we hear voices of discouragement, voices of doubt, voices of anxiety, voices of fear. They all tell us things will only get worse and it's better just to give up than to face the reality of our future. The Midrash, the ancient commentary on the Hebrew Scriptures, tell a story of how HaSatan lured Sarah into believing the worst and how it affected the rest of her life. How will listening to his voice and the voices of fear and doubt affect your life? Join Rabbi Damian as he exposes the lies we have come to believe and encourages us to live overcoming lives of faith.
The name Abraham is synonymous with faith. When we speak about Abraham, we speak about faith. But what about Abraham's chesed, his loving kindness? As much as Abraham had faith, his chesed was just as deep. What lessons can we learn from this and how can we apply it right now? Join Darren Huckey as he brings this important message, “Abraham: Master of Chesed.”
Why does life have to be so difficult? Why do we have to endure so much hardship and suffering? Do we really have to endure so many tests? If God knows how we will respond, why does He allow us to be tested? Wouldn't life be much better without trails? Join Rabbi Damian as he brings the story of Abraham to life and gives us practical advice on how to navigate the tests in our life. Navigating Our Nisayon is a message everyone will benefit from.
The great sage, Hillel, taught his disciples, "If I am not for myself who will be for me? But if I am only for myself, who am I? And if not now, when?" How does this connect with Noah and his mission to save the world, and what can Noah teach us about evangelism? Join Rabbi Damian in this unique insight into our mission as disciples of Yeshua and the calling we have to take the light of Yeshua to the world. What does this mean in a Messianic context and in the context of Yeshua's original teachings? Keep listening to find out more.
Sometimes the biblical calendar can be confusing. Sometimes we wonder why it's set up the way it is. Rest assured, however, Hashem knows what He is doing. Sukkot seems to be the conclusion of the fall festivals, but there is one more day that Hashem calls us to remain and linger with the LORD a little while longer. Do you need a long embrace from the LORD? Join Rabbi Damian as he revisits the clouds of the Sukkah and reminds us of the loving embrace of our Creator.
What should be our purpose for dwelling in a sukkah (tabernacle) during the week of Sukkot? What should we be focused on and thinking about? Join Rabbi Damian in this brief message to prepare us for Sukkot.
Judaism makes quite the deal about repentance leading up to and during the High Holidays. Hasn't Yeshua taken care of all of that for us in the Messianic community? Why should we waste our time saying penitent prayers and asking for forgiveness when we have received merit through the atonement of Yeshua? If you have these same questions, Rabbi Damian brings it home with a close examination of John 5 and the healing of the lame man and what may truly be taking place during this auspicious season, particular on Shabbat Shuvah, the Sabbath between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
Everyone wants to be forgiven, but not everyone is willing to forgive. How do we deal with this difficult subject? Are we supposed to "forgive and forget"? Are we supposed to forget all of the pain and suffering others have caused us through (God-forbid) physical or sexual abuse? Does being a follower of Yeshua obligate us to forgive and forget horrible moments of suffering in our lives? What happens if we don't? Are we still in Yeshua's care? Join Rabbi Damian on this exploration as he puts a difficult subject into perspective so we can enter the new year with peace, knowing we have properly dealt with the past.
The first two messages in this series we were descending into the depths by taking responsibility for and admitting our shortcomings. We also came to the conclusion that we are in control of our destiny and have the power to initiate change. Now, we begin the ascent towards our future by bringing correction in key areas of our life that will set us on a path of blessing and success. The first step we must take on this path is changing how we view others. Do we have a double-standard of giving ourselves the benefit of the doubt while holding others to the wire? How is gratitude the key to unlocking and overcoming this difficult challenge? Join Rabbi Damian as he takes us from our descent of failure to an ascension toward victory.
Sometimes failure is lurking where we least expect it, and when confronted our natural response is to blame shift rather than accept our own shortcomings. But in order to grow and mature, we have to take the mask off, be honest with ourselves (and with others), and deal with the root issues that have kept us groveling in the dirt for far too long. Do we really have the power to change? It's not an instant process, nor an easy one, but if you choose to endure it you will become the vessel for the purpose you were created.
What do we do with failure? We have all made mistakes and had failure in our lives. Too many times we let those failures define who we are. Now that we are in the Hebrew month of Elul, we have an opportunity to use our failures to become the person Hashem created us to be. He wants us to know that He can turn our past failures into the fuel that can change our future. Join Rabbi Damian in part one of this soul-searching series, Every Descent.
What hope does the author of Hebrews offer to his audience? Is it what traditional Christian interpretation has told us or is there something different? Why have so many Christian leaders (especially in recent days) lost their faith? If Yeshua declared "it is finished" on the cross why is there still suffering and injustice in the world today? In the exciting conclusion of our series, A Better Covenant, Rabbi Damian pulls everything together to help us understand the overarching message of the book of Hebrews as well as the hope we have in Yeshua.
If Yeshua wasn't a sacrifice in the literal sense, like we discussed in our last message, then what value was there in his suffering and death? Why did he have to suffer such a horrible death on our behalf? How is Yeshua's death efficacious on our behalf to remove sin and bring us into the World to Come and how does the Jewish concept of middah k'neged middah (measure for measure) help us understand this? Join Rabbi Damian in this explosive journey into the concept of the death of the righteous and how we are recipients of Yeshua's unjust suffering.
Was Yeshua really a sacrifice? Where in the Scriptures do we find that a human qualifies as a sacrifice. Where does it say that human blood is required to satisfy the wrath of a blood-thirsty God? These are difficult and legitimate questions that are often raised by anti-missionaries and skeptics. How does Christianity answer this? Does Messianic Judaism have an answer? Join Rabbi Damian in this honest look at these questions and more to give us a clear picture of Yeshua as the sacrificial lamb of God.
The author of Hebrews uses specific terminology to capture the attention of his audience and make his points clear. There are two Greek words that his arguments hinge on: protos (first) and deuteros (second). Unfortunately, this fact is lost in our English translations, generally due to translation bias. However, they are central to the arguments being presented and we must understand this to understand this book.
Also, major English Bible versions do not agree on verb tenses in their translations. Some translations say that the way into the holy place "HAS not yet been disclosed" (Hebrews 9:8) and other translations say it "HAD not yet been disclosed." Some say "as long as the first Tabernacle WAS still functioning" and others say "IS still functioning." Which is it and why do these translations disagree with one another? Join Rabbi Damian as he untangles our English translations to help us understand the true message in Hebrews 9:1–10, and the amazing work of Yeshua.
In our previous installment we began talking about the better promises of the New Covenant. But we left out on critical component. What does this have to do with the Gentiles? How are non-Jewish followers of Yeshua affected and what is so incredible about the promises of this New Covenant for the nations? In this teaching, Rabbi Damian spells out these ramifications, discussing the decision of the Jerusalem Council and Paul's single rule for all of his communities. Join us as we explore how these decisions have impacted the world today and even been twisted into saying that Gentiles have no part and no obligation to the Torah's instructions.
We are excited to present this special message from Dr. Ervin Briones, one of our own from the NAMS Tribe. He pulls no punches in this heart-piercing message of one man's inner transformation into a passionate disciple of Yeshua. Drawing from his own spiritual journey from Catholicism and the Seventh Day Adventist Church to Messianic Judaism, Dr. Briones shows that, if we are honest with ourselves, we all may have a little bit of Balaam hiding within us. We all want to justify our actions and beliefs, even though we know deep down inside what is right. Join Dr. Briones in this message from the heart to possibly discover a little about your own heart.
The author of Hebrews claims that Yeshua "has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises" (Hebrews 8:6). What was wrong with the first covenant that required better a new covenant with better promises? What are these better promises? Have these promised been realized or are we still waiting on their fulfillment? And last, how does knowing the promises of the New Covenant help refute the claims of Replacement Theology? Join Rabbi Damian on this exciting look at the promises of God to His people and how those promises have already come about or will come about in the future.
What does it mean to occupy your space and are we currently doing so? Are we taking up more space than we should? Are we filling the space that we've been given? How does this concept help us understand the dynamics of what was going on behind the scenes in the rebellion of Korah against Moses? Join Lance Slater as he delves into these concepts and more in this contemplative understanding of Korah and our responsibility to occupy our proper space in all areas of life.
According to both the traditional translation and interpretation of Hebrews 8:13, the Torah is "obsolete." But did the author of Hebrews really say this or is this a bias by translators? Is this passage referring to the Mosaic covenant, the Torah, or something else? How can the New Covenant be in effect if the Torah has been made obsolete? Isn't is supposed to be written on our hearts, according to Jeremiah 31, Ezekiel 36, and Isaiah 30? Did Yeshua make an allusion to the fulfillment of the New Covenant in the Sermon on the Mount? Tune-in as Rabbi Damian brings clarity to this pivotal and greatly misunderstood passage to help us understand the promise, the purpose, and the power of the New Covenant.
What is the New Covenant? Is it the New Testament? Are Messianics correct in calling the New Testament the "Brit Hadashah," which means New Covenant? Or is it the Renewed Covenant as others call it? Are disciples of Yeshua today living under the New Covenant? In order to properly understand the book of Hebrews we have to correctly understand these terms. Most people consider the Old Testament to be the Old Covenant and the New Testament to be the New Covenant. But there are problems with this understanding that keeps us from understanding the powerful message of the book of Hebrews that has been locked away for nearly 2000 years. Join Rabbi Damian as he explains what the Old Covenant is, what the New Covenant is, and what is so good about it. It's a course-correcting message you won't want to miss.
In our previous teaching, Rabbi Damian addressed some potential areas of concern regarding Yeshua’s priesthood. If Yeshua wasn't permitted to be a priest according to the regulations of the Torah, then how can he be a priest on our behalf at all? What is this “more excellent ministry” that Yeshua arbitrates and what does the author of Hebrews mean when he says that Yeshua is a priest “the order of Melchitzedek”? Unfortunately, this concept is completely misunderstood and misrepresented in Christian theology. If you’re a learner who wants to understand Hebrews better, you don’t want to miss this exciting and clarifying teaching on Yeshua and his priesthood in the order of Melchitzedek.
Messianic Judaism is spreading across the world. The Torah is being rediscovered and Messiah Yeshua is being uplifted. But there is a lot of confusion in the journey to an authentic Messianic Judaism that holds to both the commandments and the testimony of Yeshua (Revelation 12:17). Australia is one of these places that is experiencing this "Messianic Revival" and the birth pains that come with it. Join Rabbi Damian as he shares his recent experience teaching and meeting with spiritual leaders "Down Under," who are encountering Yeshua in an exciting new way.
What can a Renaissance artist teach us about the Giving of the Torah at Shavuot? How can Shavuot this year have more impact on us than the previous years? Join Darren Huckey as he connects these two seemingly unrelated topics to weave together a message of encouragement, challenge, and anticipation.
In our last teaching we looked at how Yeshua serves in a better Temple. This week we will begin looking at how he is the kohen (priest) of a better priesthood. How does this affect the Aaronic priesthood? Are they now obsolete? Why does the author of Hebrews begin by saying Yeshua's ministry is better than that of the angelic host? Why is his priesthood compared to that of Melchizedek? If you've enjoyed this series up to this point, you will truly appreciate the insights Rabbi Damian brings to the table in this message as he begins discussing Yeshua as a better High Priest.
In our series, A Better Covenant, we are working to understand why Yeshua's ministry on our behalf is considered better to the earthly (Aaronic) ministry in a number of ways. The author of Hebrew says that through Yeshua we have a better ministry, a better Temple, better sacrifices, a better hope, and a better covenant. How are all of these things better, and how does this affect the Temple on earth? Has it been replaced by a spiritual Temple that Yeshua now ministers in? How does the author of Hebrews know this? When, how, why did these things happen? Join Rabbi Damian as he cuts through the confusion as we make a turn toward the inspiring conclusion of this series.
King David had a run in with a man named Nabal, a "worthless fellow" according to his wife's description of him. According to the Torah and our Apostles, we are called to live a holy life. Our words can be like flaming arrows. The Baal Shem Tov's disciples learned a valuable lesson from a humble beggar. How do these seemingly random concepts connect to teach us an important lesson about the Spirit of the Law? Join Darren Huckey as he takes us on a journey from Nabal to Nachmanides, and from the Torah to the Apostles."Beyond the Letter of the Law" is a lesson in love and humility that we should not quickly forget.
Was the book of Hebrews written to show the superiority of Christianity over Judaism? Was it written to help Jewish Christians completely give up their attachment to Judaism and make a full transition to Christianity? In order to deal with these questions we need to find some keys that will help us unlock the answers we seek, and they seem to be located in strange places. The first one is found in the death of James, the brother of Yeshua. The other is found in Nero's persecutions of the early followers of Yeshua. Did you catch all of that? Strengthen your faith by joining Rabbi Damian in this exciting history lesson to understand the backdrop behind the purpose of the book of Hebrews.
There is much debate surrounding the origins of the book of Hebrews. Who wrote it? When was it written? What was its purpose? Where was the community of believers that this book was written to? Was the Temple still standing when it was written? And ultimately, why do these things matter? The book of Hebrews is often used to show the superiority of Christianity to Judaism. But is this the message we are supposed to understand from it? Join Rabbi Damian as he begins unpacking the book of Hebrews to help us properly understand its valuable purpose and message.
A Better Covenant - Yeshua and the Sacrificial System, Part 4: They Missed The Memo
Is the God of the Old Testament an angry, mean, blood-thirsty deity that needs to be pacified by blood, particularly the blood of His only Son? Did the blood of Yeshua finally satisfy His craving for blood to the point of doing away with the sacrificial system? Was the Holy Temple in Jerusalem destroyed, Jerusalem sacked by the Romans, and the Jewish people exiled and rejected by God because they rejected the sacrifice of Yeshua? This is the standard interpretation of Yeshua's death as interpreted through the lens of a Christian reading of the book of Hebrews. But is this really the way the Scriptures portray these events and the sacrificial work of our Savior? Join Rabbi Damian as he shows the fundamental problems associated with this kind of reasoning as it is backed up throughout the Scriptures. This is a heavy-hitting message you won't want to miss.
In part 3 of our ongoing series on Yeshua and the Sacrificial System, we begin discussing a new aspect of the sacrificial system. Up to this point we have learned what sacrifices have the ability to do. In this teaching Rabbi Damian develops the important point of what sacrifices cannot do and attempts to correct misinformation that has pervaded much of the historic teaching on the sacrificial system. Were the sacrifices given to get people to heaven and Yeshua is now the new method? Does God really hate sacrifices as it seems many Scriptures say? If you really want to know the truth of these criticisms, join us as we learn their context to understand the sacrificial system in the way Yeshua and the Apostles would have understood it. It's sure to make a significant impact on how you understand the Scriptures as a whole.
In Part 2 of our series, A Better Covenant, Rabbi Damian delves deep into the Torah's sacrificial system by taking a long look at the difference between ritual purity and moral purity. We know the sacrificial system deals with ritual purity, but what about moral purity? How does it handle that? Were sin offerings always offered because someone had sinned? Is a new mother somehow a sinner because she has to bring a sin offering? Was there some kind of moral failure on her part when she either conceived or gave birth to a child? Join us as we continue unraveling the mysterious inner workings of the sacrificial system in order to ultimately understand what Yeshua has done for us.
Everyone knows that Yeshua's death on the cross ended the sacrificial system. Or did it? Arguably, this may be one of the most important teaching series you have ever heard. In this series Rabbi Damian helps us understand Messiah Yeshua, the plan of redemption, the World to Come, and God’s plan for humanity in ways you have never seen—and all through the lens of the Torah's sacrificial system. Don't miss an episode in this challenging, yet engaging, series, "A Better Covenant: Yeshua & The Sacrificial System."
Are we talking about a hit movie from the '80s starring John Travolta? Not quite. In our last message, we began discussing the various reasons why the very first word of Leviticus has one letter (the aleph) that is much smaller than the rest. This week we continue exploring this theme but this time diving into the Midrash to find some unexpected connections between this single letter and our Messiah. Who was speaking to Moses in Leviticus 1:1? The answer may surprise you.
The book of Vayikra (Leviticus) begins in an unusual manner. In Torah scrolls across the world the very first word of this book is written oddly. The very last letter, the aleph, is written much smaller than the rest of the letters. Over the centuries there has been much speculation as to why this is the case. What is the story behind this reduced letter and what does it have to do with me and my relationship with God? Dive deep with Rabbi Damian as he strips back the speculation to reveal a loving God and His relationship with His people.
In the last Torah portion in the book of Exodus (Pekudei) we read about the final steps for the construction of the Mishkan, the Tabernacle. God wanted His people to build a Tabernacle for Him. But before they begin construction God reminds them that they should not do any of this work on Shabbat. Why? Because He wanted us to be legalistic? No. Because you are the center of God's universe. What does this mean? Find out more in this eye-opening message by Rabbi Damian on Parashat Pekudei.
What is God's love language? How do we find out what it is? Join Rabbi Damian as he digs deep into Parashat Vayakhel and explores big concepts such as the Tabernacle, the Shabbat, Love, and the Space-Time Continuum. Find out how all of these seemingly unrelated concepts fit together in this memorable teaching from Rabbi Damian on Parashat Vayakhel!
Note: Unfortunately, the audio cut out at several points so here is some information you may not get from the recording. The podcast Rabbi Damian was interviewed on is called Bell House Chats and you can find the episode here: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ufwUtzFcE7sQEOBcR8uKv.
If we are honest, sometimes we have trust issues with God. We struggle to understand God's plan in our lives, especially if things aren't going the way we think they should. Moses was in a similar situation and cried out to the LORD, "Show me your glory!" (Exodus 33:18). What did God mean when He responded to Moses that he would "cover you with my hand until I have passed by" and that "you will see my back; but my face must not be seen" (Exodus 33:22–23)? Does God have hands and a backside like humans? What did God mean that He would show Moses his back and how did this response show Moses exactly what he needed? Join Rabbi Damian in this eye-opening teaching as he unravels the request of Moses and makes it applicable to each of our lives today.
In this engaging message, Rabbi Damian addresses several questions that may be troubling to those struggling to understand the teachings of Yeshua. What does Yeshua mean by giving Peter the "keys to the Kingdom of Heaven" (Matthew 16:19)? Did he proclaim Peter as the first Pope? What is the "key of David" that Yeshua holds in Revelation 3:7? How does all of this tie into the Messianic obsession with education and study? And where does the proclamation of the gospel come into play with all of this? Join Rabbi Damian as he "unlocks" the door of these mysteries and brings clarification to the mission of Messianic Judaism.
Sometimes leaders of smaller congregations feel they have to compete with larger congregations and spend all of their energy trying to grow in number. But comparison to others can only lead you in one of two directions: envy or pride. Therefore, leaders of small congregations often struggle with envy and feelings of inferiority. Originally intended as an internal address for Nachamu Ami, this message will be sure to encourage other congregations who struggle with comparison. Join Rabbi Damian in this inspirational message of how to throw off the constraints of comparison in order to live free and appreciate everything and everyone Hashem has placed in your life.
A parashah named Jethro? From the Beverly Hillbillies? No! Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses! Why is one of the most important Torah portions—the portion that records the giving of the Ten Commandments—named after a pagan priest of Midian? Who is this man, Jethro and can we learn anything from him? Join Rabbi Damian in this unique teaching as he peers into the wisdom of Jethro and brings us ten lessons we can learn from Jethro. Don't miss it!
A tree relies on earth, water, air, and sunlight to thrive. Is one system more critical to the tree than another? Which one of these environmental elements actually enable the tree to produce fruit? The Torah says that man is a tree. How so? Join Rabbi Damian for this special Tu Bishvat message that digs into the heart and soul of man to find out what helps him to put forth the fruit he was designed to produce.
When the Children of Israel left Egypt the Torah tells us that they asked the Egyptians for silver and gold at the request of the LORD. Why was it important that the Egyptians gave the Israelites silver and gold? Was it simply to help to kick start their economic condition or was there something deeper going on? Join Rabbi Damian as he delves deep into the psychology of forgiveness and reconciliation that allowed the Israelites to truly be free from the power of their oppressors.
Is your glass half empty or half full? Our perspective can determine where we are in God’s story and whether we play the role we tasked with. Moses had doubts but came to realize Hashem's absolute authority. On the other hand, Pharaoh had a false perception of reality. He believed the gods were under his control and he was apathetic to the suffering of his people. Even though Pharaoh saw the glass as half full, it turned out not to be to his advantage.
Our perspective has the ability to not only affect us, but the people around us—our family, our friends, our community, and those we mentor. Be sure to join Lance Slater as he shares a timely message on this important topic: Half Empty or Half Full? The Power of Perspective.
There's something about leaving one year and entering another. The secular year is changing from 2018 to 2019 and people around the world are making New Year's resolutions to try and be a better person. Who are you and what is your purpose? Are you able to fulfill your purpose? When God called Moses he didn't believe he was the one for the task. He asked the LORD, "Who am I?" But then he became one of the greatest leaders in history. What changed to allow Moses to live up to the potential that God saw in him? God asks each of us, "Who are you?" Why did the Creator of the Universe put you here on earth and can you really live up to that challenge? Join Darren Huckey as he explores this question and more in this intriguing and timeless message.
When Joseph brings his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, to receive a blessing from his father Jacob crosses his hands, giving the blessing of the firstborn to Ephraim, the younger son. This upset Joseph and he attempted to correct his father. Why does Jacob give the blessing of the firstborn to Ephraim, what lesson does Joseph have to learn from his father, and what does all of this have to do with us? What lesson can we learn from Jacob and how can that lesson transform our lives? Join Rabbi Damian in this transforming message from Parashat Vayechi, the last portion in the book of B'reisheet!
Why does Hashem choose certain people for His purposes? What is the common factor between these people? It seems like everyone Hashem chooses, whether Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, or Yeshua … that choosing comes at a high price. The Jewish people have been chosen by God, yet they continue to pay a high price for that calling. Is it worth it? Or should we feel as Tevia felt—that God should choose someone else for a while. Join Rabbi Damian as he explores these themes in “The Price of Potential.”
What do Andy Stanley, Antisemitism, and Antiochus IV have in common? This latest message from Rabbi Damian! Does Andy Stanely have the solution to a world filled with non-Christian and post-Christian sentiment? How does Andy Stanley's theology work to uphold the decrees of the Antiochus IV against the Jewish nation? Does Messianic Judaism have anything better to offer in a culture that does not care anything about the Bible? You don't want to miss this powerful conclusion to the last few months of teachings that show how the seeds of Replacement Theology can sprout horns, grow legs, and turn into an uncontrollable beast when left unchecked. Join Rabbi Damian as he exposes the Adversary's deception among followers of Yeshua today.
Modern Antisemitism EXPOSED: Why do so many intelligent, well-educated people believe Zionism to be a problem that needs solving? Why do many Christians and even entire Christian denominations denounce Israel and support the Palestinians who are hell-bent on Israel’s destruction? Is Israel really an apartheid state? Is there really discrimination against Arabs in Israel? Why is Israel constantly condemned on a global level for defending itself against terrorists, but millions of people rally to support the Palestinian terrorists who are murdering innocent Israelis? If you are searching for truth, you need to hear the facts and not propaganda. Join Rabbi Damian in this powerful and exposing conclusion to his series on Antisemitism and share the truth with the world.
Historically, the Jewish people and the Jewish religion have attracted followers and participants, but not without stirring the backlash of Antisemitic hate and violence in its wake. The Jewish people have been hated for a number of reasons. In Part 2 of our series on Antisemitism, Rabbi Damian gives us a brief history of Antisemitism and how it has morphed over the centuries. He explains how prejudice against the Jewish people has stemmed from misunderstanding, deception, and lies, with all of it stemming from Satan himself. Educate yourself on the truth of Antisemitism and the lies that have been created to support it in this revealing teaching by Rabbi Damian.
Antisemitism is not new, but it’s renewing itself in new and creative ways. Parents dressing their children up like Adolph Hitler, Jews are being blamed for anything and everything, violence is escalating. With the recent murders at Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburg we see it at an all time high in the United States. Yes, many people have rallied around the Jewish community in response to this heinous display of evil. But will anyone stand up next week or next year? Will we even remember the tragedy that unifies us today? Join Rabbi Damian for the first part of this chilling look at the rise of Antisemitism and the role of Yeshua's disciples to go against the tide of evil in our world.
God promised Abraham that his descendants would be "as the stars of heaven" (Genesis 22:17). Is that promise merely in regard to quantity? Or is there a qualitative aspect of this promise? Can two pieces of kosher meat be soaked together in a salt bath or do they need to be soaked individually? How does this halachic (legal) argument related to the promise to Abraham, the teachings of Yeshua, and our responsibility to "make souls" like Abraham did? Find out the answers to these questions in this eye-opening look at the life of Abraham from Rabbi Damian in Parashat Vayeira (Genesis 18:1–22:24)!
Why does life bring with it trials and tests? Are tests for God or for us? If they are for us what do they accomplish? Do they increase our faith? If so, why do we need more faith? So that we can undergo greater testing? Is it an endless cycle or is there a greater purpose for testing? Join Rabbi Damian as he wrestles with this honest question about the testing of our faith using the life of Abraham as the framework for understanding God's purposes.
The pattern of redemption is found over and over within the Holy Scriptures. The story of Noah is one of the earliest patterns of redemption in Scripture. However, it may not be what you have typically heard. The Scriptures tell us that Noah found favor in the eyes of God. Why is this important and how does it foreshadow the ultimate redemption through Yeshua? Did Noah understand Ephesians 2:8–9 better than most followers of Yeshua today? Join Lance Slater in this insightful look into Parashat Noach and the pattern of redemption we are given through it.
When the serpent tempted Eve in the Garden, he succeeded by asking, "Did God really say … ?" Today, popular preachers and teachers are asking similar questions and casting doubt on the value of the Torah in the life of Yeshua's disciples, "Did God say the Scripture is to be obeyed?" Should we have concerns about popular teachers adding or subtracting to the Word of God to fit a particular theology? Does the New Testament teach that the Torah has been no bearing in the life of Yeshua's disciples? Or is this merely another deception of the serpent? Join Rabbi Damian in this passionately delivered message intended to address the serpent's deceptive voice in today's theological war on Torah.
At the end of Sukkot we celebrate a relatively unknown festival of the eighth day called Shemini Atzeret. What is the day of Shemini Atzeret all about? What is the lesson we are supposed to learn from this day the Scriptures speak virtually nothing of? What is Hashem speaking to us through it? Join Rabbi Damian in this intriguing exploration of Shemini Atzeret.
The biblical festivals aren't like other holidays. It's easy to be happy when you get gifts, eat chocolate, and hunt for eggs. But what is true happiness and what do the biblical festivals have to teach about it? Join Rabbi Damian in this brief Sukkot message.
Yom Kippur approaches. This last Shabbat was Shabbat Shuvah, the Shabbat of Return, or the Shabbat of Repentance. The haftarah portions (Hosea 14:2-10; Micah 7:18-20; Joel 2:15-27) were a call to repentance. But what does it truly mean to repent? Many today teach that disciples of Yeshua have no need to repent. Is this true? The prophet Hosea says that we are to "take with you words." What does this mean? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this engaging message from Rabbi Damian. You don't want to miss out on a proper understanding of this topic before Yom Kippur.
Moves of the Spirit
How is the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) connected to the High Holy Days? How does the Ruach move us to fulfill our mission and purpose in life? What events happen today that may not find meaning until years later? There is meaning in the events of our lives if we can open the eyes of our souls to see them and everything that happens is for a purpose. Join Rabbi Damian in this very personal conclusion to the mini-series, "The Same Ruach?", within our greater study of The Acts of the Apostles.
Where The Spirit Leads
What is the purpose of the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit)? Why do we need the Ruach? What is it supposed to accomplish in our life? What are the promises God has given regarding the baptism of the Ruach? What is the ultimate proof that we have been immersed in the Ruach and where should it lead us? Do the promises and examples we see in the Scripture witness to what is taking place in the Charismatic movement of the 21st century? Join Rabbi Damian as he digs deep into the concept of being baptized with the Holy Spirit according to the biblical model, a profound message that will challenge all disciples of Yeshua.
Yeshua told his disciples that once they were filled with the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) they would be his witnesses to the ends of the earth. On Shavuot (Pentecost) they were all filled with the Ruach and spoke the Gospel in the various languages (tongues) of the Diaspora. What is the sign and seal of the Holy Spirit? Is it speaking in tongues? Should all disciples of Yeshua speak in tongues as the early disciples? Join Rabbi Damian as he explores these questions and more in Part 2 of "The Same Ruach?"
Is the Holy Spirit Present In Our Messianic Synagogues?
There’s no denying it. We NEED the Ruach Hakodesh (Holy Spirit). Today more than ever, believers are longing to encounter the power and the presence of Hashem, personally and corporately, as revealed by the Ruach HaKodesh. Is that happening in the Messianic synagogue? How can we answer if we don’t know what we’re looking for? In this week’s teaching from our Acts series, we investigate the origins of our concept of what it means to be “Spirit-filled.” After all, isn’t that what we all long for? Where did that definition originate? What defines it today? All these questions must be answered to truly understand what it means to live and worship “in Spirit and in truth.” Join Rabbi Damian as we begin a series within our Acts series: The Same Ruach?
We are in the Hebrew month of Elul. Our sages tell us that the word Elul is an acronym for "I am my beloved and my beloved is mine" (Song of Songs 6:3). Most of the year we see God in His role as Father. Elul is when we see Him as Lover. God says to us: "Return to me. Come Away My Beloved and let us be intimate and passionate lovers once again." What are you doing to take advantage of this special season?
Is the Torah a burden? Most people seem to think so. Why would anyone want to take the trouble to live a life revolving around the stringencies of an ancient code of law given over 3,000 years ago? What's the point? It's difficult. It doesn't make any sense. What's the benefit of such a counter-intuitive lifestyle? Join Rabbi Damian in this hard-hitting, gut-level, honest assessment of Messianic Judaism as he spells out obstacles with the Torah and the solution he has come to in resolving these conflicts. "Just Because" is an engaging message you won't want to miss.
Zechariah 8:19 predicts a time that certain days will be turned from days of fasting to days of feasting and celebration. What are those days and what should we be doing on them today? Darren Huckey explores these questions and more looking at how our actions today can affect the reality of tomorrow and potentially shorten the exile and begin the final redemption. From Exile To Redemption is a call to action for disciples of Yeshua to affect the world around them.
In in the 6th installment of our Acts of the Apostles series, Rabbi Damian dives into the fourth and final reason that the giving of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2 had to have taken place on the biblical festival of Shavuot. In this engaging message, we learn about the connection of this important event to what originally took place on Mount Sinai with the giving of the Torah and how the midrash and Talmud help us to see its significance for Jews and Gentiles alike. What did this moment mean for Jews? What did it mean for Gentiles? How did it overcome obstacles previously set in place by earlier generations? Join Rabbi Damian as he helps us understand the true significance of Pentecost.
Why did the Holy Spirit descend upon the early disciples during the biblical festival of Shavuot (Pentecost)? Is it a coincidence that Shavuot is also known as the Festival of the Harvest and the Festival of the Giving of the Torah? What do these names have to do with the purpose God poured out His Spirit, and how does Jewish tradition connect with the supernatural manifestations recorded in the book of Acts? Find out more by joining Rabbi Damian in this exciting exploration into the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
When most people think about the giving of the Ruach HaKodesh (the Holy Spirit) at Pentecost, they view it as a miraculous event, a completely new experience “unhitching” the church from it's Jewish past. What is the significance of this phenomenon in relationship to the Hebrew Scriptures and Jewish expectation? Peter gives us the key when he quotes Joel 2:28–32, but adds in a phrase not in the text. What is this phrase and how does it unlock the Pentecostal experience for the Jewish disciples of Yeshua? Join Rabbi Damian in this captivating teaching connecting the gift of the Spirit with the Messianic expectation anticipated by Moses and prophets.
We have been studying the Acts of the Apostles. However, when Yeshua called his first disciples, he asked them, "What do you seek?" When they reply, he tells them, "Come and see." In this teaching we explore the very Jewish response of Yeshua and how that applies to us and our study of the book of Acts. This supplemental teaching of the Acts of the Apostles series is intended to have us zoom back out at the bigger picture of what it means to be a disciple of Yeshua and why understanding him on his terms is critical for our spiritual development.
Part 3 of the Acts of the Apostles series continues to explain the purpose of Luke's writing the book of Acts. In this sermon, Rabbi Damian introduces us to the two key players that Luke wants us to know. One apostle to the Jews and another apostle to the Gentiles. Join us as we learn about these two key figures that set the stage for the Acts of the Apostles and its message.
Most people will tell you the book of Acts is the story of how the church began. But was that Luke's purpose? Join Rabbi Damian as he gives us four reasons for Luke writing the book of Acts, and how knowing these details will give us a proper perspective for understanding this historical record and how it should affect our lives as followers of Yeshua.
Revisionists of history will have you believe that Jesus and the Apostles "unhitched" themselves from Judaism and created a new religion called Christianity. But is that really how it happened? Join Rabbi Damian as he begins working his way through the book of Acts and sets the record straight about the earliest believers and their relationship to the Torah. You won't want to miss a single message. This first message re-examines the fundamental premise of Yeshua's ministry: What was the original Good News and has it changed?
In our last message, Rabbi Damian looked at the tragedy of Andy Stanley's Aftermath message and how a large segment of Christianity is moving further away from its foundations. Ben Zoma said: Who is wise? He who learns from all men, as it is written (Psalm 119:99) "I have gained understanding from all my teachers." In this message, Rabbi Damian shares the good that we can learn from Andy Stanley's church to become an amazing community that upholds the Torah and Yeshua in a powerful way.
After the resurrection of Jesus, did God "close the book" of Judaism and open a new one called Christianity? After accepting Jesus, should Gentiles move more towards the Jewish people and Jewish religion, or should Jews gravitate more toward previously pagan Gentiles? Should the faith and practice of Bible-believing Christians be similar to the practice of the Jewish disciples of Jesus, or should the "unhitch" themselves entirely from anything Jewish or from the Old Testament? These questions and more are addressed in Rabbi Damian's passionate address to a disturbing message recently put forth by one of America's most influential Christian teachers.
Connection. It is a basic human need. But what happens when “feeling” connected is more important than “being” connected? We live in a technological world addicted to the illusion of connection. God lays out his special times, his appointments, and invites us to a special relationship. How is the world doing with that connection? Look around and you’ll quickly determine the answer; not so well. Why? In “The Answer to FOMO” we will explore the cure to this ever-growing problem.
Have you ever felt like you were a phony and one day everyone would find out? Have you ever struggled to know that God can use you in spite of your mistakes? Aaron had this same problem. How could he, the one who made the golden calf, become the high priest and serve as a mediator between God and man? Join Rabbi Damian in this deeply moving message as he helps us overcome the difficulties of our past in order to serve God without fear.
So Pesach is over; the days of eating matzah have come and gone for another year. But the reality is these simple cakes of flour and water are intended to communicate and connect on a much deeper level than our stomachs. Pesach has ‘passed over’ but matzah still has a meaning that we must carry through the days ahead as we count the omer and journey toward Shavuot. Here’s a teaching to make matzah’s message mean more! Learn how unleavened bread might strengthen our life and faith in powerfully new ways, even after Passover.
In the words of the Tzemach Tzedek, "The first day of Pesach is Moshe Rabbeinu’s festival; the last day of Pesach is Moshiach’s festival!” What exactly does that mean? If Judaism recognizes a Messianic component of the last day of Passover, "a festival for Messiah," shouldn’t the Messianic synagogue know about this? More importantly, are we missing a beautiful and fulfilling addition to our Passover celebration? Give this week’s teaching a listen and learn about Seudat Mashiach, the Meal of Messiah, and the powerful message it communicates about our ultimate salvation.
Parsha Kedoshim provides one of the most foundational Torah commandments God gives to us: “You shall be holy, for I, the Lord your God, am holy.” Every believer desires to obey this command. On the surface, it seems quite simple. God is holy so we should be too. Can we? Can we ever hope to achieve God-like holiness? God is transcendent, beyond all comprehension, and His holiness is surely no different. Has He given humanity an impossible mission? In this week’s teaching, we’ll take a look at God’s holiness revealed on a level that we can, and must, imitate.
Can Gentiles partake in the Passover seder? Or is it limited to Jewish participants, since the Torah says that only those who are circumcised can eat of it? What about spiritual circumcision that Paul spoke of? Aren't Jews and Gentiles the same now that Messiah has come? Enjoy this power-packed and entertaining teaching from Rabbi Damian as you gear up for Passover!
What do matzah, new moons, and the return of the Messiah have in common? You may be surprised to find out! Join Rabbi Damian as he explores the concept behind the rabbinic practice of doubling the festival days. Is it biblical or merely a man-made plot of the rabbis to hide Yeshua from the masses? Tune in to find out!
We've introduced the Nachamu Ami mission statement: Loving God. Loving Each Other. But what does it mean? Is it more than a feeling? What does it look like? How do we practically live that out? Find out more in this power-packed message from Rabbi Damian that hits to the core of what it means to be a Messianic follower of Yeshua.
Why did Israel choose a golden calf over the God of the universe? How could it be? In this teaching, we’ll explore a fundamental reason for their falling away. Rabbi Damian reveals how the problem with the Children of Israel is an ongoing one with all of us and an increasing danger to our communities today. Golden calves are dangerous. We need to know how to fight them when they appear; though the weapon we’ll use is probably quite different than you might think. Tune in to find out more.
What do the Kingdom of God and Chicken Sandwiches have in common? Times have changed for believers and their communities. What once worked to draw people and connect them doesn't seem to be working anymore. What are we missing? Does our model need updating or better yet, a radical transformation? What's so special about our tribe at Nachamu Ami? Rabbi Damian explains this and more in part 2 of his engaging series, The Tribe: Are You In?
What does it mean to belong to a congregation or a community? What about a tribe? Do you belong to the tribe? Are you in? Rabbi Damian explains what this means in part 1 of his engaging series, The Tribe: Are You In?
This nine-part series explores the Christian vs. the Jewish understanding of the preexistence of the Messiah, his origins, divinity, etc.
This nine-part series explores the Christian vs. the Jewish understanding of the preexistence of the Messiah, his origins, divinity, etc.
This nine-part series explores the Christian vs. the Jewish understanding of the preexistence of the Messiah, his origins, divinity, etc.
This nine-part series explores the Christian vs. the Jewish understanding of the preexistence of the Messiah, his origins, divinity, etc.
This nine-part series explores the Christian vs. the Jewish understanding of the preexistence of the Messiah, his origins, divinity, etc.
This nine-part series explores the Christian vs. the Jewish understanding of the preexistence of the Messiah, his origins, divinity, etc.
This nine-part series explores the Christian vs. the Jewish understanding of the preexistence of the Messiah, his origins, divinity, etc.
This nine-part series explores the Christian vs. the Jewish understanding of the preexistence of the Messiah, his origins, divinity, etc.
This nine-part series explores the Christian vs. the Jewish understanding of the preexistence of the Messiah, his origins, divinity, etc.