Letter #24 - The Matter of the Sabbath...  Our Father's Gift!

GALATIANS

As most of you already know through The Letters, the Master used the Book of Galatians to open my eyes to the truth about the Levitical Law in the New Testament age.  In that Book we are told:

 

  "A man is not justified by the works of the Law; but through faith in Messiah Yahshuah, even we have believed in Messiah Yahshuah, that we may be justified by faith in Messiah, and not by the works of the Law; since by the works of the Law shall no man be justified" (Galatians 2:16).

The Greek word used here for justified is DIKAIOO, and it means, "To be just or innocent; to be free; be righteous".

DIKAIOO is the same word that James uses throughout his writing, and it is forcefully applied in that Book to those who would follow Yahshuah...  James boldly declares that, "A man is justified by works and not by faith alone.  And in the same way, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works, when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? For just as the body without Ruach ha Qodesh is dead, so also faith without works is dead" (James 2:24-26).

There appears to be a contradiction between what Paul is saying in Galatians, and what James is saying here, doesn't there? There is not, as you will see...

Before we expand on this though, let us continue on in Galatians, because we are also told,

  "For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written, 'CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO DOES NOT ABIDE BY ALL THINGS WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF THE LAW, TO PERFORM THEM' " (Galatians 3:10)

 

  "The Scripture has shut up everyone under sin, that the promise by faith in Yahshuah ha Mashiach might be given to those who believe.  But before faith came, we were kept in custody under the law, being shut up to the faith which was later to be revealed. Therefore the Law has become our tutor to Messiah, that we may be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. For you are all sons of God through faith in Mashiach Yahshuah" (Galatians 3:22-26).

 

  "Now I say, as long as the heir is a child, he does not differ at all from a slave although he is owner of everything, but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by the father.  So also we, while we were children, were held in bondage under the elemental things of the world.  But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, in order that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons" (Galatians 4:1-5).

 

  "But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how is it that you turn back again to the weak and worthless elemental things, to which you desire to be enslaved all over again? You observe days and months and seasons and years" (Galatians 4:9-10).

 

  "You have been severed from Messiah, you who are seeking to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace" (Galatians 5:4).

 

  "For the whole Law is fulfilled in one statement, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself'" (Galatians 5:14).

  "But if you are led by the Ruach, you are not under the Law" (Galatians 5:18).

Paul's argument throughout Galatians is clearly directed against the Judaizers who were seeking to bring the newly born-again disciples "Under the Levitical Law"; circumcision being the first order of business, and the remainder of the Law following.

In Galatians 4:10, for instance, Paul was moved to condemn the observance of "days and months and seasons and years".  His argument, however, directly matches the Septuagint translation of the ordinances outlined in Numbers 28 and 29, and in so doing, Paul (moved by Ruach ha Qodesh) clearly drew a line to the sacrificial portion of the Levitical Law.  In Galatians 4:10 in particular, Paul is speaking to that aspect of the Levitical Law that requires sacrifices on the various Sabbaths of days and months and seasons and years...  And, he is rightly condemning all of these practices now - in Yahshuah!

The seventh day Sabbath, however, of which we are speaking today, pre-dates the Levitical Law, and never required any sacrifice (See Genesis 2).

Justification through the Levitical Law was attained not only by practicing every facet of the Law for daily living, it also involved compliance with the sacrificial portion of that Law when the daily living portion missed the mark (sin).  Paul, in Galatians and elsewhere, is clearly delineating the remarkable difference between any righteousness gained through those elemental and worldly "works of the Law" that provided justification - meaning the sacrificial aspect of the Law - and the righteousness wholly imparted by our Father to those who believe upon the Sacrifice of His Son, Yahshuah, through faith...

Anybody seeking to be justified through any form of sacrifice, in accord with the Levitical Law, instead of through faith alone in the shed Blood of Yahshuah ha Mashiach, will be severed from Messiah.

According to Ruach ha Qodesh though, as set forth in the Book of James and elsewhere, FAITH WITHOUT WORKS IS DEAD!  Just like setting aside time on Sunday to assemble and worship with likeminded believers, is not the same as "Observing the Sabbath", and we stand in error if we believe that they are,

Sacrificial works of the Levitical Law, and works of faith,
are entirely different, and we have been deceived
by not comprehending and acknowledging that difference.

COLOSSIANS

Many Babylonian scholars have taught that the legal observance of the Sabbath terminated at the cross.  They uphold their claim by citing Colossians 2:13-17.  If we really examine Colossians 2 closely, however, I believe we will discover that God is really telling us something else...  In context, the passage says,

  "And you, when you were dead in your sins, and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven all our offences, having blotted out the decree of debt against us, which opposed us; and He has taken it out of the way, nailing it to His cross; and despoiling the rulers and authorities; He made a public display of them, having triumphed over them in Himself.  Therefore, let no man judge you in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or of the Sabbaths - which are a mere shadow of things to come; but the body is of Messiah" (Colossians 2:13-17).

Throughout the New Testament, Yahshuah and His Disciples were criticized for the work they performed on the Sabbath.  In response to these criticism's, however, Yahshuah always declared Himself, "Master of even the Sabbath" (Matthew 12:8; Mark 2:27-28 & Luke 6:5).  Later on, in Peter's visions (Acts 10:9-16) and in the direction he personally received for the Ekklesia from Ruach ha Qodesh, in regard to those visions, we are clearly shown and told that as the Disciples of Yahshuah toil in His Harvest, we are free to eat and drink whatever is placed before us.  And, we are free to labor on the Sabbath - aside from any and all of the ceremonial or dietary restrictions imposed by the Levitical Law!

In light of the fullness of Scripture, Colossians 2 reaffirms the fact that as His harvesters, we have already received release from the Levitical Law.  And, this release allows us to labor freely in the harvest of the Master of the Sabbath, wholly unfettered by any restrictions whatever... But, beloved, if Yahshuah is truly Master of the Sabbath, and our Master has repeatedly declared the Sabbath "Holy", set aside for Himself, then how should we treat that day today?

The answers to that question, as presented in His Word (that are mulling about in my heart and mind), are going to surprise you.  They are surprising me!

ROMANS

Before we delve into answers, however, we must also consider the fact that any discussion dealing with the Old Testament Commandments must certainly cross paths with Romans 13:8-10, because it is here that we read: 

  "Owe no man anything except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law.  For this, 'You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,' and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this word, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' Love works no wrong to a neighbor; love therefore, is the fulfillment of the law" (Romans 13:8-10).

From these words, we must earnestly strive to comprehend precisely what the fulfillment (PLEROMA) of the law really means - in context - because PLEROMA, Greek for fulfillment (PLEROO for fulfilled) means to make replete, complete, accomplish or satisfy...  But just what law, or better yet, what portion of the law, is Paul being moved to discuss here?

As we analyze the whole of the Epistle to the Romans, we see that Paul had already discussed righteousness, or right living, as a key to man's relationship with God (Romans 1 - 8); had already imparted an understanding for the connection between Israel and the Gentiles in God's plan (Romans 9 - 11); and is here, in Romans 13, discussing the proper attitude and conduct expected of a Disciple - in their relationship with humanity, as representatives of Yahshuah (Romans 12 - 15). Look at the Romans 13:8-10 passage again, beloved, and SEE that Paul is speaking wholly to the fact that, "Love works no wrong to a neighbor"...  In Romans 13, Paul is teaching about fulfilling that portion of the law that deals with humanity - Fulfilling Commandments Five through Ten.

Think not?

Watch now, beloved, as a truth unfolds, because as we faithfully, diligently and appropriately apply Paul's words in Romans, to the whole of Scripture, we must note that this discussion in Romans 13 speaks of those commandments dealing with our relationship to humanity, and, in no way, is this teaching meant to supersede or surpass Yahshuah's own teaching on this same issue:

Lest we forget,
"When the Pharisees heard that Yahshuah had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered themselves together. 35 Then one of them, a lawyer, testing Him, asked Him, 36 'Master, which is the great commandment in the Law?' 37 And Yahshuah said to him, " 'YOU SHALL LOVE YAHUAH YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.' 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 The second is like it, 'YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.' 40 On these two commandments hang the whole law and the prophets" (Matthew 22:34-40).

Yahshuah spoke of the whole law - in its entirety.  Paul spoke of the fulfillment of that portion of the law that dictates how we deal with our fellow man.  To believe anything else is to set aside and invalidate Scripture.  We cannot permit Babylon to influence our right thinking any longer, beloved, and we must fully come out from under Babylon's teachings, and surrender ourselves completely to the will and desire of our Beloved Master, Messiah and King!

Paraphrased, Yahshuah said;
Love God with all your heart, soul and mind; and in so doing, do not disregard His wishes (which surely would never violate commands one through four)...  And, love your neighbor as yourself (which simply will not permit a violation of commands five through ten)...  Do these, and the whole law is satisfied!!!

I am left wondering though, and this from the depth of my heart, what happens when we fail in fulfilling the Law of Love? Seriously, even if Babylon wants to contend with the fullness of Yahshuah's Words in Matthew 22, and even if they choose to stick with their belief that the whole law, and not just the human relations portion of the law, is fulfilled in keeping the law of love, what happens when we fail to fulfill that Law of Love?

And, doesn't fulfilling the Law of Love also have to do with the Love we display toward our God in heaven?  After all, we certainly cannot go about violating the first three commandments, and still believe that we are saved, can we? CAN WE?

  Can we have any other God before Him in our lives, and still believe we are saved? Many think so today, but we know that is not true.

  Can we supplant Him in our hearts through idolatry and / or idol worshipping, and still think that we can cling to His cross for salvation? No, we know we cannot!

  Can we repeatedly take His Name in vain, and still believe that He will hear us when we do call out to Him?

Even if Babylon chooses to disregard Matthew 22, all rationality and common sense dictate that we cannot be in violation of any of these commandments, and still believe that we are upholding the Law of Love!  CAN WE?

Can we kill, and still believe that we are maintaining and upholding the Law of Love?  How about stealing, is that permissible? Well, then how about adultery? Surely, coveting is acceptable, isn't it? Don't you see, beloved? While the Law of Love is the fulfillment of every command dealing with humanity, commandments five through ten are the heart, body and soul of that Law of Love.  They are inseparable, and we have been deceived into thinking that the link no longer exists!"

And, if the link still exists to commandments five through ten, then please do not be deceived into thinking that commandments one through four have been removed, because they have not!

Free from the Law? Are we free from the Law the way Babylon wants to interpret Romans 13?

Be cautious how you respond, beloved!!!

I received a most remarkable letter from a brother in Yahshuah some time ago, and the love of God was so evident in that letter, that I was moved to tears of joy.  (I had never heard from this brother before).  In his encouragement to me though, our brother displayed an openness, kindness and loveliness that I have rarely encountered (including that which I display toward others)!  Through this letter though, Yahshuah momentarily opened my eyes to the fulfillment of His Law of Love, and in that revelation I am left wondering what happens when we fail to fulfill His Law of Love in our lives?

We all know that loving our neighbor as we love ourselves is not an easy task, but, beloved of God, how often have we really viewed the fullness of the Law of Love - in light of the fullness of Yahshuah's Command?  From His Sermon on the Mount, He said, 

"You have heard it said, 'THOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AND HATE YOUR ENEMY.'  But I say unto you, love your enemies and bless them who curse you; do well by them that hate you, and pray for them who slander and persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father who is in heaven; for He makes His sun to rise on evil and good, and sends rain on the righteous and unrighteous.  For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? If you embrace only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? Be perfect, therefore, as your Father in heaven is perfect" (Matthew 5:43-48).

Perfect? As our Father in heaven is perfect?

Well, I believe we have just hit a huge bump in the road for those who are electing to stand solely on the Law of Love.  I believe that the Master's own Word derails any notion that we can set aside and invalidate the supporting and connecting Ten Commandments.  Perfect? As our Father in heaven is perfect?

I realize that what I am going to say will be perceived as judgmental, but from what we know and see within the 'church', and from the general population of this world today, (in direct relationship to maintaining and keeping the Law of Love), I hear one word, "OOPS, OOPS, OOPS", resounding in my mind over and over again!  And that, Mathetes, with as much sarcasm as Ruach ha Qodesh will allow me to generate within myself.

Who are we kidding here?  Ourselves alone, to be sure!

In my attempt to be perfect, as our Father in heaven is perfect, I have failed many times - MISERABLY! (May God forgive me)...  The Law of Loving thy neighbor as thyself is HARD!  So, beloved of Yahshuah, what happens when we fail to uphold and abide by that Law of Love?

Is it not true, in light of all that we now SEE in His Word, that aside from the Law of Love (and yet wholly connected to that Law of Love) there remains only the Ten Commandments? At the very least then - when all else fails - we must be held to the standard of those Ten Commandments, mustn't we?  At the very least, is not that what the Word is saying?  If all the Commandments are fulfilled in one Command, then what happens when we fail to fulfill that one Command? What happens when we fail to fulfill the Law of Love? We are left struggling to fulfill the other commandments, aren't we?

Or, let me present this in another way:  Without the enmity caused solely by the Law, just how is it possible for us to fail in fulfilling the Law of Love? If the Ten Commandments are dead and buried with Yahshuah, and if the Law is no longer applicable, as Babylon teaches, then precisely how can we fail to fulfill the Law of Love? If God makes His sun to rise and set on evil and good; on the righteous and the unrighteous, precisely what standard is there that separates these two classes? Listen to what God has to say about this - from the New Testament:

"For when the Gentiles, who do not have the Law, do naturally the things of the Law,
these, not having the Law, become a Law unto themselves;
for they show the work of the Law written in their hearts,
their conscience bearing witness,
and their thoughts either accusing or else defending them,
on the day when God will judge the secrets of men
through Yahshuah ha Mashiach" (Romans 2:14-16).

If it is true that when those who do not have the Law, do naturally the things of the Law, and those actions become a Law unto themselves, then what happens when we, who have been tutored by God's Law (in bringing us to the knowledge of the Messiah) totally abandon and forsake that Law? How do we reconcile that abandonment with the remainder of God's Word?

Rhetorical? I'm not so sure!  Certainly, if nothing else, these thoughts are worthy of deep introspection - and possible repentance...  Don't you think?

As I considered these questions, and as I considered all of the passages already quoted, and yet to come (in context and in the fullness of all that I know to be true of faith through grace), I could not help but be drawn to another passage that has been ever present and foremost in my heart and mind, as I have tried to walk the walk of a disciple.  This passage reverberates in my heart, because it warns against continuing in sin after receiving the knowledge of the truth...  And, beloved, it is here, discussed fully in the Book of Hebrews, that I believe a major deception can be uncovered.

Hebrews 1 speaks of Yahshuah's superiority - over everything created... Over man, over the Prophets, over the Angels, over the entirety of the cosmos.  His absolute superiority over everything created is clarified here...

Hebrews 2 tells us, therefore, that we must pay attention to HIM!

Hebrews 3 - 5 inform us that Yahshuah is our High Priest, and outline for us His role on our behalf.  We also learn about our role as children who believe in Him...

Hebrews 6 speaks of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God.  Hebrews 6 also reveals the truth that salvation CAN be lost (Hebrews 6:4-8).

Hebrews 7 compares Yahshuah's Priesthood with that of Melchizedek, and declares His priesthood to be eternal.  (The Sacrificial aspect of the Levitical Law is dead in Messiah Yahshuah)...

Hebrews 8 initiates a discussion on the "New Covenant" - based upon the sacrifice of Yahshuah - and again declares that the first sacrificial covenant is "Obsolete"...

Hebrews 9 declares with absolute authority that the old covenant that has been abolished by Yahshuah the Messiah, is the Levitical Law of sacrifices and of, "Days and months and seasons and years"...

Hebrews 10 teaches that the cleansing received by the Old Testament sacrificial system was a weak substitute for the Sacrifice offered by Messiah, and that the cleansing we receive today through Him is perfect and eternal...  Then, Ruach ha Qodesh speaks of the new life that we have in Messiah, and, beloved of Yahshuah, it is here that I believe we have ignored the Word of God, because He says,

"Having, therefore, brethren, confidence to enter into the holy place by the blood of Yahshuah, by a new and living way which He inaugurated for us through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a truthful heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with clean water.

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He is faithful who promised; and let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good works, not forsaking the assembly, as some are accustomed, but exhorting one another; and even more as you see the day drawing near.

For if we sin willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there remains no longer a sacrifice for sins, but a frightful expectation of judgment and THE RAGE OF A FIRE WHICH SHALL CONSUME THE ADVERSARIES.

Any man who casts off the Law of Moses dies without mercy under two or three witnesses.

How much severer punishment do you think he deserves, who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has counted the blood of the covenant as unholy, by which he was sanctified, and has insulted the Spirit of grace?

For we know Him who said, "VENGEANCE BELONGS TO ME, I WILL REPAY." And again, "THE MASTER WILL JUDGE HIS PEOPLE."  It is a frightful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" (Hebrews 10:19-31).

Hebrews 11 speaks of abiding Faith!

Hebrews 12 encourages us to live in the discipline of Yahshuah - following His example - empowered by His Ruach ha Qodesh.

Hebrews 13 closes the writing with an outline of daily living in Yahshuah - and a blessing...

In the light of these Words, I again ask, "If it is true that when those who do not have the Law, do naturally the things of the Law, and those actions become a Law unto themselves, then what happens when we, who have been tutored by God's Law (in bringing us to the knowledge of the Messiah) totally abandon and forsake that Law? How do we reconcile that abandonment with the remainder of God's Word?"

At this juncture, I think this becomes much more than a rhetorical series of questions.  But I must leave that determination, and answer, to you!

Perhaps the most striking passage that is used today to defeat an Old Testament style Sabbath Day observance, is found in the verses of Romans 14:4-13, where we are instructed to not pass judgment on the servant of another; instructed to never pass judgment on those who observe a day (or against those who do not observe a day).  And it is here that a firm Scriptural argument against a Sabbath Day observance might be found.  In full, God's Word says,

  "Who are you to judge another's servant? To his own master he stands or falls.  And he will stand, for the Master is able to make him stand.  One person esteems one day above another, another esteems every day alike.  Each person must be fully persuaded in his own mind.  He who regards the day, regards it for the Master, and he who does not regard the day, to the Master he regards it not. He who eats, does so for the Master, for he gives thanks to God; and he who eats not, for the Master he does not eat, and gives thanks to God.  For not one of us lives to himself, and not one dies to himself.  For whether we live, we live for the Master, or whether we die, we die for the Master; therefore whether we live or die, we are the Master's.  For to this end Messiah died and rose again, that He might be Master both of the dead and of the living.  But you, why do you judge your brother?  Or why do you regard your brother with contempt? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of God.  For it is written, 'As I live, says YAHUAH, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall acknowledge God.'  So then every one of us will give an account of himself to God.  Therefore, let us not judge one another anymore, but rather judge this - that you not put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in a brother's way" (Romans 14:4-13).

Our position on judgmentalism is well documented (and, prayerfully, applied).  Romans 14:4-13 is quoted and referenced frequently throughout The Letters, to support our position and belief regarding judgmentalism.  For this discussion, however, we must focus on verses 5 and 6, because that is where any substantial argument against the Sabbath might be made. Here, the Word says, "One person esteems one day above another, another esteems every day alike.  Each person must be fully persuaded in his own mind.  He who regards the day, regards it for the Master, and he who does not regard the day, to the Master he regards it not" (Romans 14:5-6).

"For all who have sinned without the Law shall also perish without the Law; and all who have sinned under the Law shall be judged by the Law; for not the hearers of the Law are just before God, but the doers of the Law shall be justified.  For when the Gentiles, who do not have the Law, do naturally the things of the Law, these, not having the Law, become a Law unto themselves; for they show the work of the Law written in their hearts, their conscience bearing witness, and their thoughts either accusing or else defending them, on the day when God will judge the secrets of men through Yahshuah ha Mashiach" (Romans 2:12-16).

Undoubtedly, this is where we must re-insert the whole of Romans 14 again, just as a reminder that we are not to judge another - in any way, shape or form..  But the fullness of this matter, for each individual, lies in the fact that God knows the hearts and minds of all, and He wants, "Each person (to be) fully persuaded in his own mind" about what he approves or disproves (Romans 14:5).

"Have you faith? Have it to yourself before God! Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves.  But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because whatever is not from faith is sin" (Romans 14:22-23).

And, with that said, we can pretty well stop our conversation here!

As long as we remain convinced that the Sabbath does not matter, and as long as we can faithfully remain happy in our self approval, of whatever it is that we approve, then the Sabbath really does not matter, and we are free to do whatever we please!  Amen?  Amen!!!  Do you agree?

The problem I have with stopping here, is the fact that every true Disciple of Yahshuah that I have ever spoken with or exchanged letters with, has always expressed an earnest heart-felt desire to walk closer with the Master.  Every one!  In their quest to draw ever nearer to Yahshuah, each child of faith has spent countless hours studying the Word in search of His understanding, knowledge and wisdom - so that they could apply these things in their walk for His glory... And therefore, ultimately, draw closer to Him.

Is this not true of you, beloved?  Have you not sought for Him, even to the dismay of the world around you? Have you not also found tremendous joy in being the delight of your Master and Messiah?

How many times have you coursed through the whole of Scripture, seeking for clues, hints, encouragement and truth?  How often have you prayed for understanding, knowledge and wisdom?  How frequently have you asked for permission to draw nearer unto Him?

Those who are currently trapped within Babylon refuse to grow or expand in their walk of faith with Yahshuah, but we are not trapped within Babylon are we?  We are not of the mindset to permit others to tell us what we are supposed to believe, because the calling we have received from our Father drives us to comprehend more, to seek for more, to be more - for the praise, honor and glory of His Most Holy Name!

We are compelled to drive onward and upward, because we know that our hearts will not find peace until we hear, "Well done, thou good and faithful slave"!  And, from the fullness of my heart, I do not know one Disciple who is convinced that their life warrants such an accolade from HIM!

Surely, try as I might, in my estimation, mine does not!  But, thankfully and mercifully, He does not permit us to judge ourselves.  Praise be unto our Messiah, Master and King, for His purchase of our souls - for great is the price that has been paid!!!

So, in spite of our shortcomings, and in spite of our sin, we continue to study - and to apply.  We continue praying for, and seeking for, His truth (as if for gold).  And, the reason I cannot stop this conversation at Romans 14, is because in my continuing search for God's Truth, I am confronted with other portions of His Word that tell me all is not entirely right...  His Word does not allow me to have complete peace in what has been approved, for the simple reason that we are not experiencing the fullness of everything that God has promised or approved for Yahshuah's Disciples.  And, in these unfulfilled promises and obvious lacking, my heart is crying out for more.

Through our many conversations I know you feel the same...

So, just what does His Word say that causes doubt in my heart, mind and soul?  Well, let's start with a really big one:

  "Amen, amen, I say to you, he who believes on Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater than these shall he do; because I go to the Father.  Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.  Anything you ask Me, in My name, I will do.  If you love me, keep My commandments.  And I will beseech the Father, and He will give you another Comforter, that He may be with you forever; that is the Ruach of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him; but you know Him, because He dwells with you and shall be in you.  I will not leave you orphaned: I will come to you.  Yet a little while and the world sees me no more, but you see Me.  Because I live, you shall also live.  In that day you shall know that I am in the Father, and you in Me, and I in you.  He who has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me; and he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father, and I will love him, and will show Myself to him" (John 14:12-21).

The whole of John 14, 15, 16 and 17 is directed to Yahshuah's Disciples.  Directed to us!  As a disciple, therefore, when I consider these words, I am left wondering about the fact that there are a great many 'things' that I have sought from our Father in heaven, in the name of the Son, that I have not received.  And these were not mere whimsical requests either.  These were 'things' which given, would have truly glorified the Name of our Master and Messiah.  Why is it then, that these requests have gone unanswered?  God cannot lie, can He?

No, God cannot lie!

Since God cannot lie, there must be another reason why (our) prayerful requests are not being fulfilled...  Many will respond to this by saying that the reason my requests were not fulfilled, was because they were: 1. Not in accord with our Father's will.  2. Not in our Father's timing.  Or 3.  Personally motivated and self-gratifying.

I think it is significant to note, however, that Yahshuah said, "Anything you ask Me, in My name, I will do!"  There are no qualifiers here!  There are no pre-set conditions for the fulfillment of these words, are there?

Or are there?

The Greek word we interpret, commandment or commandments, by the way, is ENTOLE, and ENTOLE is neither singular nor plural; the word speaks collectively of the Precepts of God...  The promise made by Yahshuah above, therefore, is simply that if we 'keep' His precepts, we need but ask, in His name, and our Father in heaven will fulfill our every request.

Why is it then, that even though we yearn from every pore of our bodies to please Him and to follow Him, that we are not abiding in the fullness of the POWER that He displayed during His ministry? Why is it that so many of our sincere, heartfelt, faithful prayers are going unanswered, or are flatly denied? Could it be that we are missing something significant in our walk with Him, and that until we determine to set our lives truly aright in His sight, that we will continue to stagger?

Listen to what else Yahshuah said,
  "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you.  In this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so be found to be My disciples.  As the Father has loved Me, I also have loved you.  Abide in My love.  If you keep My commandments, you shall abide in My love; just as I also have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in His love.  These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full" (John 15:7-11).

How "full" is your joy today, beloved? How much fruit are you bearing today, in relationship to the fruit He bore during His ministry? How much satisfaction are you receiving from your studies? Or, are you even studying? How effective are your prayers? Or, are you even praying as faithfully as you once did? If your answers are not as favorable as you know they should be - or as favorable as you want them to be - then maybe something is missing in your life. Maybe something is not right!

Please permit me to add to this conversation by adding Yahshuah's words from Matthew 18:19, where He said,
  "Again I say unto you, if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven."

And from John 16:23-24, where He said,
  "Amen, amen I say unto you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you.  Until now you have not asked anything in My name; ask and you shall receive, that your joy may be made full."

Oh, how we yearn for the fulfillment of these words!  Why though, are we falling short?  Why are we failing to achieve the entire promise of John 14-17, or these other passages, in our lives? Could it be that we have not kept the commandments of our Master, and that until we do, we simply will not see the fulfillment of these remarkable Words? Could this explain the near two-thousand year dry spell that the 'church', in Babylon, has experienced?

And, could there be a link between maintaining the fullness of His Commandments, and the use of His proper Name? I have a very strong suspicion that there is!  Surely, time will tell...

Nevertheless, four chapters from one Book of Scripture convicts me of so many things.  Four chapters, in my Master's own words, cause me to pause in my understanding and force me to reevaluate my comprehension of what the 'world' - and the Babylon church - has promoted for centuries.  After all, we strive to adhere to nine of His ten commandments, surely our Sunday adherences to our perception of a Sabbath must be sufficient.  Aren't they?

In a phrase, and from the depth of my heart, mind and soul, I believe the only response available to us today is, "NO THEY ARE NOT!"

Inasmuch as we are speaking of His precepts then, please allow me to present a few other passages that cause me to pause in my understanding, because they too are forcing me to reevaluate my comprehension of what Babylon teaches today about the Sabbath.  Perhaps you have noticed these passages as well, but have never fully investigated the matter before.

We'll start slowly here, beloved, but we'll pick up a full head of steam rapidly as we progress in His Word.  I will strive not to belabor the point by offering a myriad of verses, but the latter passages I am presenting rival in significance the Words of Yahshuah uttered in John 14 - 17 above, and they truly highlight the questions which those chapters have forced me to ask:

  "Teach me goodness, discretion and knowledge, for I believe in Thy commandments" (Psalms 119:66).

  "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being a priest unto Me. Since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children" (Hosea 4:6).

  "My son, if you will receive my words and hide my commandments with you, incline your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding; if you cry for knowledge, lift your voice for understanding; if you seek her as silver and search for her as hidden treasures; then you will discern the fear of YAHUAH, and discover the knowledge of God" (Proverbs 2:1-5).

  "My son, do not forget my Law, but let your heart keep my commandments; for length of days, years of life and peace they shall add to you" (Proverbs 3:1).

  "Then he taught me and said to me, 'Let your heart hold fast my words; keep my commandments and live' " (Proverbs 4:4).

  "My son, keep my words, and hide my commandments with you.  Keep my commandments and live, and my Law as the apple of your eye' " (Proverbs 7:1-2).

  The whole of Jeremiah 17 speaks toward God's Sabbath, and is worthy of considerable note.

  Ezekiel 20 speaks forcibly of the Sabbath, and even delineates the differences between the Levitical Law and the Sabbath.

YAHUAH said, "I gave them My statutes, and taught them My ordinances, which if a man observes them, he will live.  And I also gave them my Sabbath, to be a mark between Me and them, that they would know that I am YAHUAH who sanctifies them" (Ezekiel 20:11-12).

And this interpretation is truer than any other I have seen.

The Hebrew word used for "Sabbath" here, SHABBATH is singular, not plural - as most translations present it.  And, the word OWTH, which most translations render as 'sign', really speaks of a monument, a flag, a token - hard evidence - as in a mark, not some sort of nebulous 'sign' as many now understand that word.

And, in the correct interpretation of this passage, we see a direct link drawn between the proper maintenance of the Sabbath, and the End Time Harvesters, because maintaining the Sabbath will be a Mark between YAHUAH and His Disciples.

If this is so, then this truly is a significant matter!

  In a warning and command issued Prophetically by Yahshuah, He personally said that the End Time Disciples were to, "Pray that your flight will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath; for then there shall be great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever shall be" (Matthew 24:20-21).

If the Sabbath were to have no meaning for His New Testament era Disciples, why did Yahshuah say these things? And please, let us not debate the fullness of the snatching (rapture) again, because of this passage and these questions.  The Ekklesia goes when Ruach ha Qodesh is removed, and not one moment before!

Nevertheless, we know that in the full context of this passage, these words are intended for the End Time Disciples, because He said these things in response to the disciples' request that He, "Tell us, when shall these things be, and what shall be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?" (Matthew 24:3).

This command, therefore, issued by our Master, that we pray that our "flight will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath," is significant for us today - but we do not understand how!

  "Thus says YAHUAH, 'Protect justice, and do righteousness, for My salvation is near to come and My righteousness to be revealed.  Blessed is the man who does this, and the son of man who takes hold on it; who keeps from profaning the sabbath and keeps his hand from doing any evil.  Let not the son of a stranger who has joined himself to YAHUAH say, "YAHUAH will divide and separate me from His people."  Nor let the eunuch say, "Behold, I am a dry tree."  For thus says YAHUAH to the eunuchs who keep My sabbaths, and choose what pleases Me, and hold fast My covenant, "To them I will give in My house and within My walls a place, and a name better than that of sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name which shall not be cut off.  Also the sons of the strangers who join themselves to YAHUAH, to worship Him, and to love the name of YAHUAH, to be His servants, every one who keeps from profaning the sabbath, and holds fast My covenant; even those I will bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer.  Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be acceptable on My altar; for My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the people.  The Master, YAHUAH, who gathers the outcasts of Israel, says, 'Yet will I gather to him, to those already gathered'"" (Isaiah 56:1-8).

Isn't it true, beloved, that all who are not born of the house of Israel - every Gentile - is a "son (or daughter) of a stranger who has joined themselves to YAHUAH?"  Aren't these Words, therefore, meant to have some significance for us today?  Is not the whole of Scripture inspired?

I do not know how many years ago I did this, but my personal copy of the Holy Scriptures has lines drawn around Isaiah 56:9-12, and the passage is headed with my handwritten note, "FALSE CHURCH!"  Until Ruach ha Qodesh moved me to study the fullness of the Sabbath, however, I never comprehended the difference between the blessings promised by YAHUAH in Isaiah 56:1-8, and the dire warning issued to the false church in Isaiah 56:9-12.  Truly, the chapters of John 14-17 find roost in the differences!

  Listen to what else Isaiah was inspired to write about the Sabbath:  "If you turn your foot from the sabbath, from doing your own will on My holy day, and call the sabbath a delight, and the holy day of YAHUAH glorious, and shall glorify it, abstaining from your own ways, from seeking your own pleasure, and speaking your own words, then you will delight in YAHUAH, and I will cause you to ride on the high places of the earth; and I will feed you the inheritance of Jacob your father, for the mouth of YAHUAH has spoken" (Isaiah 58:13-14).

Throughout the whole of Scripture, we are repeatedly told that if we honor His commandments, of which the Sabbath is prominently written in stone, He will honor us.  We are repeatedly promised that if we abide faithfully according to His express desires; if we honor Him fully, including the keeping of His sabbath, then we will, "Ride on the high places of the earth".

Answer this, beloved, are you riding on the high places of the earth?

If not, why not?

What are we doing wrong - or not doing properly - today?  What is it that has us at odds with God's Word? If we are not experiencing the fulfillment of His promises in our lives - then we must ask ourselves one very simple question, "WHY NOT?"