Tag: prophets

Are We In the New Covenant Yet?

Christianity teaches that the New Covenant began with Jesus’ death and resurrection. However, according to the Hebrew Bible, the events that describe the initiation of the New Covenant are vastly different than Christian dogma wants you to believe.

Because God does nothing without revealing it to his prophets first (Amos 3:7) and He is BIG on reiterating concepts with at least two or three prophetic witnesses, it’s important we study what God specifies through these prophets to better understand important concepts such as the New Covenant and other related events.

THE TERMINOLOGY

In both the Hebrew and Christian Bibles, there is a limited dialogue regarding the New Covenant. Nevertheless, the one and only time the terminology is used, the LORD provides a few critical clues through His prophet Jeremiah in Jeremiah 29-31. Specifically, the term is used in Jeremiah 31:31.

“Behold, the days are coming, says the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah – ” Jeremiah 31:31 NKJV (New King James Version)

FAMILY REUNION

In Jeremiah 31:31, the reader is introduced to the term “New Covenant” and that this New Covenant is made between God and two groups of people, the Northern Kingdom or ten tribes of Israel, being the House of Israel, and the Southern Kingdom, primarily consisting of the remaining two tribes, the House of Judah. The slang term “Jew” comes from the tribe of Judah, which later evolved to be “House of Judah”. To understand how the kingdom of Israel split into two groups, read 1 King 12. Essentially, there was a family feud, but not the Steve Harvey type.

The famous Jeremiah 29:11 quote, which can be found in nearly every Christian Bookstore and Hobby Lobby across the United States, God says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future…” (NIV). Technically, this promise is given to Israel, not Christians shopping at Hobby Lobby. When we read Jeremiah chapters 29 through 31, at the time of these prophecies, both houses were in captivity. The House of Israel had been taken captive by the Assyrian Empire much earlier and the House of Judah was taken captive by the Babylonian Empire. Although the prophecy in chapter 29 primarily applied to the Jews held in Babylonian captivity, the prophecy of Jeremiah 30, applies for a much later time. In Jeremiah 30:7 it references a time of trouble for Jacob, meaning the nation of Israel, perhaps it could imply a greater captivity, if you will. Daniel 12:1-2 also uses the same terminology of “a time of trouble” and is referring to the Battle of Gog and Magog. Such an epic battle will be led by Gog, the ultimate villain, as he and numerous other nations surround and attack the nation of Israel. More details of this battle can be found in Ezekiel 38 and Zechariah 14 among other prophetic passages. Nevertheless, through the prophet Jeremiah, God is giving His people hope that even though life will be frightening for them in the future, God will literally and physically save them from their enemies similar to how He did when they were in Babylon and years earlier, in Egypt.

Through the prophet Jeremiah, God expands in great detail exactly what He means when He says “a future and hope” or “a hope and a future” (depending on which version you are reading) in Jeremiah 30. Notice in Jeremiah 30:3, Adonai, the LORD says, “For behold the days are coming…that I bring back from captivity My people Israel and Judah…I will cause them to return to the land that I gave to their fathers and they shall possess it..” So here we see God plans on rescuing and restoring all of the House of Israel and the House of Judah, uniting both the divided kingdoms and bringing them all back to the land of Israel to safely dwell.

Where in the world are the ten lost tribes reminded me of the “Where’s Waldo?” cartoon.

Interestingly, the House of Judah largely consisted of the tribe of Judah, Benjamin, and the Levites, but the House of Israel, the ten northern tribes that were taken prisoners by the Assyrian captivity and assimilated into the nations, have never been tracked, much less regathered. As a side note, texts from both the Hebrew and Christian Bibles reveal some of those Northern tribes merged with the House of Judah and therefore, it can be argued that the Jewish population today represents all or at least some of the twelve tribes, but for the most part, it would appear the vast majority of the ten tribes assimilated with the nations and are considered unidentified or lost. With that said, here in this text of Jeremiah 30, God declares He will be regaining custody of all His kids in a glorious and miraculous family reunion in the New Covenant. In other words, the lost will be found!

RESURRECTION | RESTORATION

Jeremiah 30, verse 9, reads, ”They shall serve the LORD their God and David, the king whom I will raise up for them.” Now, if you aren’t familiar with the plethora of other passages in the prophets discussing this same prophecy you might glaze over the “raise up” phrase but this is referring to the resurrection and restoration of the House of Israel and the House of Judah described in Ezekiel 37. I believe this verse indicates the LORD is literally going to resurrect King David, as well as all of the deceased Israelites (twelve tribes), and David will rule and reign once more. Other Jews state this verse means, God will provide someone from David’s lineage, specifically through the line of David’s son, Solomon, to rule. Christians typically assume this David figure refers to Jesus’ alleged past resurrection and yet, obviously, this reference to resurrecting, rescuing, and restoring Israel cannot be about Jesus’ alleged resurrection because #1 all twelve tribes were not rescued from the Roman Empire, in fact, the Jews weren’t rescued at all, though they were oppressed, AND #2 nobody was raised up to be a literal, visible-to-all king of Israel after Jesus’ alleged death and resurrection. Just the opposite manifested. The House of Judah was scattered throughout all the nations in the years after Jesus’ alleged resurrection, not rescued to dwell in safety, much less restored.

It wasn’t until 1948, that a minority of Jews have been and still are being restored to the land of Israel in present modern times, but still not both houses. There still are many Jews scattered throughout the globe as well as the deceased House of Israel and their unknown descendants.

WORSHIP | SACRIFICES RESUME

As we continue to read the surrounding verses and context of the new covenant prophecy, notice we left off at Jeremiah 30:9, an important verse to grasp as it proclaims the House of Israel and the House of Judah, previously defined, will all be serving God collectively, not Allah or Jesus, mind you, but “their God”. Furthermore, that same verse adds they also will be serving David as their king. David was known as a “man after God’s own heart” and one of the greatest kings of Israel to ever have lived, who also authored most of the Psalms. You could say, David, the king/prince, was the ultimate worship leader as he will do once more in the New Covenant. In the prophetic Book of Ezekiel, the prophet Ezekiel also speaks about the reunion of both the House of Israel and the House of Judah in addition to describing David, a ruler or prince that leads the people in worship, including in making various offerings, even sin offerings (Ezekiel 34:23-24, 36:22-24, 37:24-28, 45:16-46:18). Ponder this as you study these passages: If Jesus was the final sacrifice, why does the prophet Ezekiel in Ezekiel 45-46 and the prophet Zechariah in Zechariah 14:16-21, very clearly detail sacrifices will resume as a critical means of worship in the future for both Jew and Gentile?

WORLD PEACE

Go to Ezekiel 34:23-31. Notice God reiterates here through a different prophetic witness being Ezekiel what He said in Jeremiah 30:9 that He will make David be like a shepherd to His sheep (of Israel), the LORD will be their God (not Jesus), and David will be a prince or governing ruler. Verse 25 describes the New Covenant as a “covenant of peace” made with them. Incidentally, Ezekiel 37, verses 25-26 express the same statement. Notice in Ezekiel 34, the prophet goes on to describe a time of peace and prosperity, where animals will no longer attack people or each other (Hosea 2:20 & Isaiah 11:6-9, 65:25 also speak to this), the earth will be a lovely garden producing delectable crops, Jews will no longer be persecuted by Gentiles anymore, and all will know who the LORD is (Ezekiel 34:25-31). Return with me to Jeremiah, specifically Jeremiah 31:33-34. Please carefully notate that the LORD makes it very plain and understandable in this New Covenant that “No more shall every man teach his neighbor, his brother, saying ‘Know the LORD’, for they ALL shall know Me..” There will be no more wars because there will be no religious or political debates for all will know God and His ways in the New Covenant time frame. Other prophetic witnesses such as in Isaiah 2 and Micah 4 both speak to similar sentiments of all will know and be taught God’s instructions and there will be no more war.

A NEW WAY OF LIFE

Did these descriptive events manifest upon Jesus’ alleged resurrection? Of course, not. In fact, Jesus proclaimed the opposite, “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword.” (Matthew 10:34 NKJV). The Crusades and other heinous persecution of innocent Jews by the hands of Christians confirm the fruit of the Gospels. Jesus and the faith that developed in his name indeed failed to bring a covenant of peace to the globe. Rather, the prophets of the Hebrew Bible describe obvious physical changes as G!d more or less will provide a NEW way of life, or perhaps you could say, a type of NEW heaven and NEW earth; hence, the NEW, or more accurately termed, RENEWED covenant, a covenant of peace on earth. By describing the earth and this covenant as “new”, it is simply a figure of speech inferring a refreshed version of the existing earth and existing eternal covenant God has with Israel. Each covenant God has made with humans builds upon the previous. As a simple example, women are still experiencing pain in childbirth, which was part of the very first covenant God established. Several more have been established since then, but no covenant nullified the previous, it only builds upon it.

NO ONE CAN DIE FOR ANOTHER’S SINS

Lastly, in all these Scriptures foretelling a future era, have we read anything stating Israelites or anyone for that matter must believe in a Messiah in order to receive eternal life, be resurrected, be forgiven of sins, and miraculously make it to Israel? Do you notice the resurrection of the dead, as well as the rescue and reunion of both the House of Israel and the House of Judah, have been in the forecast even without any belief in Jesus? Moreover, if God can reveal all these other details to His prophets, why didn’t he reveal the most important detail that a person must believe in Jesus for the forgiveness of sins, to be resurrected, or rescued? Christians are led to believe Jesus died for their sins and therefore, believe they are in the New Covenant, and yet, in addition to the fact that none of the events of the New Covenant have manifested yet, Jeremiah 31:30, quite literally the verse next to the “new covenant” verse, reiterates commands God already stated, which is “every one shall die for his own sin”. Just like God says numerous places elsewhere – nobody can die for your sins – each person is held accountable to God for themselves. Study Deuteronomy 24:16, 2 Kings 14:6, Psalm 49:7, Jeremiah 31:30; Ezekiel 18 & 33. Therefore, it is a direct violation of God’s word for another person, like Jesus, to die for the world’s sins.

WAIT & SEE

With all this overwhelming evidence, it is clear the new covenant has not manifested yet. While we can’t be certain WHEN exactly these prophecies will manifest, we do know WHO is involved, WHERE to be watching, and WHAT to look for as there will be glaringly obvious signs indicating the New Covenant has been activated. For now, we wait and put our trust in God alone.

To assist you in your Biblical studies, the PDF version of this article is available for download/print.

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Why Isaiah 53 Is Not About Jesus But Actually Is About Israel

Many Christians are told Isaiah chapter 53 is all about Jesus. If one were to only read that chapter in all of the Book of Isaiah while also ignoring what the other prophets of the Hebrew Bible prophesied about, then it would be easy to assume Isaiah is describing the death of Jesus on the cross. However, one cannot grasp all the author is conveying by only reading one chapter and jumping to conclusions. Whether Christian or Jewish, we must learn to stop making Scripture fit our preconceived notions and rather, let Scripture interpret Scripture within context and how the author refers to terms throughout.

Repeated Themes

Whenever one studies a book, they often start with: What is the series or book’s overall theme? Let’s explore the theme of the Book of Isaiah before identifying the character of Isaiah 53. As I read Isaiah 53, I recognized a familiar theme manifest. In several other chapters penned by Isaiah as well as others throughout the Hebrew Bible, God’s chosen people, particularly the righteous remnant, are often persecuted, and afflicted, not because of their actions, but because of the actions of others associated with them. Certainly, throughout the pages of the Bible and over the course of history, many of God’s chosen people at times were stiff-necked and rebellious (as some are still today); however, there are others, a remnant, who chose to live righteously by adhering to the laws of Torah, or God’s ways, that apply to them as individuals to the best of their ability and will be eventually rewarded. Consider how the prophet Jeremiah warned the House of Judah of their sins and pending captivity should they not repent. We see in the Book of Jeremiah and the Book of Daniel, the righteous prophet, Jeremiah, as well as Daniel, were carried off into captivity alongside their rebellious brethren. Eventually, however, after 70 years, the House of Judah was redeemed and restored by the arm of the LORD. Isaiah was a prophet to the Northern Kingdom of Israel, known as the House of Israel, many of whom were also rebellious while others were righteous. Nevertheless, prior to the captivity of the House of Judah, both the rebellious and the righteous remnant of the House of Israel were attacked and carried off by the Assyrians (too bad the House of Judah didn’t learn from the House of Israel’s sins). Consider how all of the Egyptians suffered the plagues because of Pharoah. Similarly, have you ever told your teenagers to be careful who they hang around with because if one friend does something illegal, the others associated with them can also be charged with the crime? For example, one kid uses drugs in a vehicle, while his friends are also in the car. The teens are pulled over by police and the cops end up arresting all of them because of the one’s rebellious, illegal choice. Guilty by association.

Conversely, we also see in the Bible, others can be spared because of their association with the righteous. Recall how Noah, a righteous Gentile, was mocked while being obedient, and yet, he and those associated with him (his family) were spared of the great flood of judgment by the arm of the LORD while the rest of the world drowned. Similar concepts are portrayed by the righteous deed of Rahab, a Gentile; subsequently, she and her house were spared of God’s judgment. As a sidebar, notice these Gentiles were saved by their response to obedience (their action), not mental belief. Furthermore, Abraham bargained with God that if there were just ten righteous in a city, would God not spare that city (Genesis 18)?

These concepts manifest repeatedly throughout the Jewish Bible, including in the Book of Isaiah. Righteous by association and guilty by association.

Now, as a Christian, you may be thinking those associated with Jesus will be righteous and subsequently, saved by association, and those who reject Jesus or never heard of Jesus will be condemned and excluded. Interestingly, many religious Jews perceive association with Jesus as guilty (idolatrous) and excluded by association because the first commandment God instructed Israel on (and to teach the world) is to not worship any other creature or thing as if they are God. Jews have learned this lesson repeatedly starting with the Golden Calf incident, the Assyrian captivity, and Babylonian captivity. So, you can understand why many Jews balk at Christian missionaries or Christian programs broadcasted in Israel — they don’t want to be guilty by association and find themselves suffering in captivity again!

While we are on the topic of Christianity evangelizing Jews, you never see Jews forcing God or Torah onto others through violent means such as the Crusades or other forced conversions. More often than not, you will find Jews to be kind, inviting, and inclusive, knowing God also is kind, inviting, and inclusive. This isn’t to say all Christians are violent or evil, by any means. Many modern-day Christians are Israel’s biggest and only fans. Furthermore, while you will see Christians and Muslims persecuted for their faith sporadically over history and present-day, you will never see other religions suffer as much as the Jewish people consistently have. Whether righteous or rebellious, all Jews have suffered merely for being Jewish.

But Why?

Israel, wherever he (Israel) is scattered, has been “chosen” to serve the nations. Israel, or Jews, are commissioned to be moral ambassadors as they make the One True God and His ways, and literal salvation known through their lifestyle or their deeds, also known as their obedience to mitzvot (the commandments) See Isaiah 49:1,3,6-8. Because of his (Israel’s) appointed assignment to lead in love, the world historically loathes Jews. The world prefers to sojourn this life apart from a moral compass. Hence, the atrocities Jews have suffered, and still suffer. Israel, the Jewish people, are the suffering “servant” of Isaiah 53 for this reason. By the righteous Jews’ suffering, we are healed, or righteous by association.

Dissecting Isaiah 53

The subject of Isaiah 53 can be found in Isaiah 52:13 and in numerous places throughout Isaiah. The “servant” is Israel and all about God redeeming them, both the people and the land.

Let us dig further for a greater understanding. In the final verses of Isaiah 52, specifically verses 13-15, leading up to the often misunderstood Isaiah 53, we see “My servant” will be raised up and revered by many after having misunderstood the identity of “My servant”. It also says Kings will be shocked at the fact God’s servant is suddenly being elevated. Considering most of the world is under the umbrella of Christianity, will it really be shocking if Jesus is the so-called “servant” Isaiah is referring to? Is Jesus eventually being elevated to rule and reign a concept Gentiles are unfamiliar with? Of course not! It’s the entire hope of Christianity, no? Compare Isaiah 52:13-15 and Isaiah 62:1-4, 12. Notice Scripture doesn’t say Jews will be shocked upon the elevated servant, but rather, that Gentiles and Kings/Government leaders of other nations will be shocked. Interestingly, Jeremiah, the prophet, also reveals that the Gentiles (the nations) will be shocked upon realizing they inherited lies (while the Jews inherited truth) in Jeremiah 16:19. Furthermore, many other Scriptures reflect similar sentiments of Israel being eventually restored, extolled, and elevated (compare Deuteronomy 26:19, 28:1,10 as well as Isaiah 2,11, 60-62, 62:2-4; Ezekiel 34-48; Jeremiah 29-31; Micah 4; Zechariah 8; Zechariah 14, as some examples).

“What other passages refer to Israel as ‘him’?”

Now, that we have considered the theme and a few verses leading up to Isaiah 53, let’s discuss pronouns used in the Scriptures. In regards to Isaiah 52 and 53, I asked myself, “What other passages refer to Israel as ‘him’?” Surprisingly, numerous Scriptures refer to Israel in the masculine (Isaiah 45:11,46:8,56:8; Jeremiah 31:9-11,18,20-22; Hosea 7:8-10, 8:14, 10:6, 11:1,5, 12:1-4, 13:12-13). It would appear when collective people are referred to in the Jewish Bible, such as Israel/Jacob/Ephraim/Judah, pronouns such as him/his and them/their are used. Whereas when Scripture references specific cities such as Zion, Jerusalem, Holy City, Samaria, Babylon, etc, it uses the feminine pronouns (Isaiah 10:11,47:1,5, 51:17-18, 52:1-2, 62:1-2).

“Has Israel been defined as ‘My Servant’ such as in Isaiah 52:13?”

I then asked myself, “Has Israel been defined as ‘My Servant’ such as in Isaiah 52:13?” Again, surprisingly, yes. Isaiah 44:1-2,21-22, 45:4, 48:20, 49:3; (other general references 50:10; 52:13).

When reading any other book, would you insert a different subject just because they have similarities and then deem that one chapter is all about a different person not identified within the book? For example, while reading a book about the suffering of Jews during the Holocaust, no one would pick out one chapter and say, “Oh, this must be about Anne Frank, because she was a Jew that suffered in the Holocaust” when there is no mention specifically of Anne Frank.

More specifically, let’s examine each verse of Isaiah 53 to see other themes of these same sentiments further proving this text is about Israel, not specifically and exclusively Jesus.

Isaiah 53 | Verse-By-Verse

Isaiah 53:1 arm of the LORD = strength; see Isaiah 51:9, 59:16; 63:5 and Psalm 44:4 all of which speaks to this pattern is all of God’s doing, His strength and His will, the arm of the LORD;

53:2 no form or comeliness is likened to Zephaniah 3:12 referring to the remnant as meek and humble;

53:3 the servant is despised and rejected; despised and we did not esteem him is similar to Psalm 44:13-15, but especially Isaiah 49’s reference to Israel being rejected by men, yet later esteemed or raised up just as the later part of Isaiah 52 and 53 speak to. Notice the entire passage of Isaiah 49 is about Israel, the servant (vs 3), who is afflicted by men (vs 13-14), and just as Isaiah 52:13-15 speaks to the “servant” being miraculously extolled higher than kings which shocks the kings that this little nation is now honored, Isaiah 49:23-26, Isaiah 51 speak to the same prophecy as does all of Isaiah 60, but specifically Isaiah 60:14-15, as well as Isaiah 62:2-4;

53:4 wounded, stricken, smitten and afflicted by God – compare to the remnant of Israel being afflicted in Zephaniah 3:19, Psalm 44:24-25, Isaiah 51:7,12 (notice Isaiah 51:9 referring to the arm of the LORD just as Isaiah 53:1 and the close proximity of these parallel verses); also, see Isaiah 60:14-15;

53:5 all of Israel will suffer for the sins of Israel (i.e. even the righteous remnant such as Daniel and Jeremiah were carried off into the Babylonian captivity). Also, compare the servant being bruised for iniquities then healed to Israel being bruised for their iniquities in Isaiah 30:9-15, then bind up the bruise and healed in Isaiah 30:26;

53:6 is about the entire community being held accountable for sins. Should one person sin, they all suffer; hence, why there are incidents in the Jewish Bible of drastically removing the offender from the camp (i.e. Joshua 7-9). God is big on community, unity, and being in one accord; hence, why God stresses throughout Torah that we are responsible for one another (think Cain and Abel; love your neighbor; priests sacrificing for the entire community should there be unintentional sin members committed) or how God’s entire justice system is designed to hold one another accountable. Remember, the prophet Isaiah was the prophet sent to the Northern Kingdom of Israel/10 tribes/House of Israel. So when the majority of the House of Israel sins, hence “we (House of Israel) like sheep have gone astray”, everyone suffers including the few righteous ones just like Jeremiah and Daniel suffered in the Southern Kingdom/House of Judah when the Babylonians took the Jews to Babylon and held them captive. Some of Judah had sinned and consequently, God sent the Babylonians to discipline them for 70 years due to their violation of God’s land laws. Nevertheless, the righteous remnant paid heavily too (Jeremiah, Daniel, and others). We see that same concept in the second part of the verse, “and the LORD has laid on him (righteous remnant of House of Israel) the sins of us all (the majority of people of Israel/House of Israel)” and is likened to Zephaniah 3:13 as well as Ezekiel 34 and Psalm 44:11;

53:7 the servant/he didn’t open his mouth is also referenced of the righteous remnant of Israel learning to not open their mouth in rest and quietness Isaiah 30:15, Numbers 10:36, and Zephaniah 3:13, and Psalm 46:10/11 (depending on if you are using the Hebrew or Christian Bibles);  sheep for slaughter, the sheep being representative of Israel, is also found in Jeremiah 11:19 and 12:3 as well as Psalm 44:22;

53:8 the righteous servant/remnant being cut off from land of living is also referenced in Jeremiah 11:19 whereas Israel being cut off from the land/living in general is mentioned in 1 Kings 9:6-7 and  Ezekiel 37:11;

53:9 no deceit in his mouth is also referenced in Zephaniah 3:13 of no deceit being in the mouth of the righteous remnant (even the author of the Book of Revelation seemed to understand this reference is about Israel see Revelation 14:5 and how it is referencing the 144,000 righteous remnant of Israel found in Revelation 7);

53:10 again references bruising the servant as did 53:5 and 30:26; note: Jesus/Yeshua had no physical seed or offspring to carry on his legacy, but Israel’s descendants continue to be fruitful and multiply. The prophet Isaiah also prophecized a tenth of the holy seed will remain in chapter 10:13;

53:11 -12 by his knowledge – knowledge or wisdom in the Bible always refers to Torah/God’s laws see Hosea 4:6 as an example or Proverbs 3. Obeying Torah is defined as being righteous and received by God (see Psalm 95:6-11; 103, 119 and Isaiah 1:16-20, as just a few examples, but really it is everywhere in the Tanakh/Jewish Bible.) Also, notice Isaiah 26 speaks all about salvation and the importance of learning righteousness in Isaiah 26:8-12 or Isaiah 48:17-19. Israel, specifically the Jewish people, are called to be the light to the nations (Isaiah 42:6-8 and 49:3,6), and how are Jews to be the light? By living Torah, obeying God’s voice, which is Torah (Deuteronomy 28:1; Psalm 119:105; Proverbs 6:23; 4:2) so that the world might come to know how to be physically saved or spared and therefore not perish (Hosea 4:6). The righteous remnant repeatedly intercedes and suffers on behalf of the people (see Moses and Aaron and all the prophets as examples), but moreover, the righteous remnant lead in love simply by example of a Torah-observant lifestyle (to the best of their ability). Isaiah 53 speaks to the affliction of Israel; Isaiah 54 speaks to the literal, physical salvation of the Jews/Israel; Isaiah 55 is an invitation for all to follow their example; Isaiah 56 explains the Gentiles/foreigners who also keep God’s covenant (Torah), are also saved/gathered to Mt Zion.

Notice the prophets say nothing about one must believe in a Messiah to die for their sins for forgiveness, they simply must repent and turn to the LORD and His ways.

Next, after pondering such concepts, I thoroughly researched the Scriptures to find where it indicates a person will need to die for my sins and that one is eternally damned in their sins. To my surprise, I found “salvation” is always referencing a literal, physical saving, no one can die for another’s sins for we each are held accountable for our individual sins (Deuteronomy 24:16, 2 Kings 14:6, Jeremiah 31:29-30, Ezekiel 18:19-24, 33:12-20) while often collectively subjected to disciplining judgments as previously discussed above. Moreover, to benefit from God’s grace, all one must do is repent and He will gladly forgive (see Psalm 103 and Isaiah 1:16-20 or the story of Jonah and how even the Gentiles had been forgiven simply for repenting or the repeated message of the Prophets).

Christianity teaches if you don’t believe in Jesus you are damned to hell, eternally lost, part of the Anti-Christ Spirit, etc. while the Hebrew/Jewish Scriptures teach if you believe in Jesus you are an idolater and will be held accountable for your sins as we all are. In fact, it could be argued the trouble of Jacob, as prophecized by Daniel 12 (and other passages of judgment on Israel), could be because of Christians and Messianics propagating idolatry (the worship of Jesus) in the land of Israel. Choose this day whom you will serve and choose wisely.

Friends, Israel, more specifically the righteous Jewish remnant, are the suffering servant of Isaiah 53. I hope you will research all these Scriptures prayerfully.

Am Yisrael Chai!

Shalom and blessings to Gentiles and Jews alike!

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Beyond Heaven and Hell: A Jewish View of Salvation

One of the most significant differences between Christianity and Judaism concerns the definition of salvation.

In many Christian traditions, salvation is primarily understood as being rescued from the consequences of sin through faith in Jesus as the Messiah and Savior. Depending upon the denomination, salvation may also involve baptism, receiving the Holy Spirit, participation in the sacraments, good works, or some combination of these elements (John 3:16; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38–39). Although Christians differ on the details, most agree that faith in Jesus occupies a central role in one’s salvation.

When I began examining the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) apart from later theological interpretations, I was struck by how differently the Scriptures describe salvation. The question naturally arose: if belief in a future Messiah is the central requirement for salvation, where do the Torah, Prophets, and Writings explicitly teach this doctrine?

The answer may surprise many readers. Throughout the Hebrew Scriptures, there is no passage stating that one must believe in a future Messiah in order to receive God’s forgiveness or be saved. Rather, the overwhelming emphasis is that God Himself is Israel’s Savior, Redeemer, and Deliverer.

Consider just a sample of the many declarations found throughout the prophets:

  • Isaiah 43:11: “I, even I, am the LORD, and besides Me there is no savior.”
  • Isaiah 44:6: “I am the first and I am the last; besides Me there is no God.”
  • Isaiah 45:21–22: “There is no other God besides Me, a just God and a Savior; there is none besides Me. Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth.”
  • Hosea 13:4: “You shall know no God but Me; for there is no savior besides Me.”

These passages repeatedly direct humanity toward God Himself as the source of redemption. The emphasis is not on faith in an intermediary, but on trusting, worshiping, and returning to the God of Israel.

Repentance and Forgiveness in the Hebrew Scriptures

Another striking theme throughout the Tanakh is the connection between repentance and forgiveness.

Psalm 51 records King David’s prayer after his sin with Bathsheba. David does not appeal to a future sacrifice or mediator. Instead, he cries directly to God for mercy, confessing his sin and asking for a clean heart and renewed spirit.

Likewise, Psalm 51:16–17 declares:

“For You do not desire sacrifice, or else I would give it; You do not delight in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and contrite heart—these, O God, You will not despise.”

Psalm 103 similarly emphasizes God’s mercy toward those who fear Him and seek to walk in His ways.

The prophets repeatedly echo this message:

  • Isaiah 1:16–18 calls Israel to wash themselves, cease doing evil, and learn to do good.
  • Ezekiel 18 teaches that a wicked person who repents and turns from sin will live.
  • Hosea 14 calls Israel to return to God and receive forgiveness.
  • Joel 2:12–13 urges repentance because God is gracious and merciful.

From a Jewish perspective, these passages demonstrate that God’s forgiveness has always been available through sincere repentance, prayer, and a return to His ways.

Individual Responsibility

Another important theme concerns personal accountability.

The Torah teaches:

“Fathers shall not be put to death for their children, nor shall children be put to death for their fathers; each shall be put to death for his own sin.” (Deuteronomy 24:16)

Ezekiel expands this principle in chapter 18:

“The soul who sins shall die.”

The prophet repeatedly emphasizes that each person is responsible for his or her own conduct before God.

For this reason, Judaism has traditionally understood atonement and forgiveness through the framework of repentance, restitution, prayer, and divine mercy rather than through the death of another individual on one’s behalf. While Christians and Jews interpret these texts differently, the principle of individual responsibility remains a foundational element of Jewish theology.

Salvation in the Tanakh: Physical and National Redemption

Another significant difference concerns what salvation often means in the Hebrew Bible.

Many modern readers immediately associate salvation with the afterlife. In the Tanakh, however, salvation frequently refers to deliverance from physical danger, oppression, exile, persecution, or national distress.

Consider the language of:

  • Psalm 53:6
  • Psalm 80
  • Psalm 91
  • Isaiah 51–52
  • Jeremiah 30–31
  • Ezekiel 34–39
  • Zephaniah 3

Again and again, God promises to rescue His people, gather the exiles of Israel, restore Jerusalem, establish peace, and bring justice to the world.

The prophets envision a future in which the nations stream to Jerusalem to learn God’s ways (Isaiah 2:1–4; Micah 4:1–4), the earth is filled with the knowledge of God (Isaiah 11:9), and God’s presence dwells among His people.

In this sense, biblical salvation is often portrayed not as escaping the earth for heaven, but as participating in God’s redemption of the world itself.

The Future Redemption of Israel

The prophets also describe a future restoration in which Israel is regathered, spiritually renewed, and brought into a deeper covenant relationship with God.

Ezekiel writes:

“I will take you from among the nations, gather you out of all countries, and bring you into your own land. Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean… I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes.” (Ezekiel 36:24–27)

Jeremiah 31 likewise speaks of God writing His Torah upon the hearts of His people.

These passages describe a future age in which God transforms His people, forgives their sins, and renews their relationship with Him. Significantly, the emphasis remains upon God’s direct action, His covenant with Israel, and the restoration of obedience to His Torah.

Two Different Understandings of Salvation

Christianity and Judaism ultimately approach salvation from different starting points.

Christianity generally understands salvation through faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection as the means by which sins are forgiven and eternal life is secured.

Judaism, drawing from the Hebrew Scriptures, understands salvation primarily as God’s ongoing work of redemption through repentance, forgiveness, covenant faithfulness, and the future restoration of Israel and the world. The focus remains upon turning directly to God, walking in His ways, and trusting in His mercy.

Both traditions speak of redemption and hope, yet they define those concepts through very different theological lenses.

For those seeking to understand the Jewish perspective, the most important step is to examine how the Torah, Prophets, and Writings themselves define salvation and to allow God’s revealed Word to shape one’s understanding of redemption.

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What Is the Torah Portion & Haftarah About?

Did you know when Jesus / Yeshua read Isaiah 61 in the synagogue on Shabbat (Sabbath/Saturday), which we can read about in Luke 4:16-30), He was reading from that specific week’s “Haftarah” portion? For thousands of years, those of the Judaism faith have read from the Torah and Haftarah. A major part of the Jewish worship service since the days of escaping Babylonian captivity (see books of Ezra & Nehemiah), is the public reading of the Torah.For the Jewish people learned the hard way while under Babylonian captivity to forsake God’s instructions will inevitably lead to physical and spiritual bondage. The Torah is the first five books of the Bible, also known as the Law, or God’s instructions for life. Each week, in today’s congregations of Judaism, Messianic Judaism, and many Hebrew Roots’ congregations read a certain portion of the Torah in their services. So the whole world (of those groups) is studying the same portions in unity. However, many years ago, circa 175 BC, when Antiochus Epiphanes conquered the temple, he outlawed the public reading of the Torah, replaced the holy artifacts with pagan gods within the temple, slaughtered pig, an unclean and abomination according to Leviticus 11, Deut 14, and Isaiah 65-66, as a means to mock God’s ordained sacrificial system, and even tormented and killed Jews for holding to their belief in the one true God and their desire to adhere to His laws. All of this was an “abomination of desolation”, which will happen again according to prophecies found in the Books of Daniel, Matthew, and Revelation. Consequently, the rabbis of those days researched and prescribed related passages of the Torah found in the Prophets to be read each week instead of the Torah during that tumultuous time. This became known as “Haftarah”, which means “conclude”. After that horrific time, the practice of reading from the Prophets stuck so today, passages called portions from the Torah and the Haftarah, which are related are read. In Messianic Judaism (and possibly Hebrew Roots too), related portions from the Brit Chadesha (Renewed/New Covenant) are read as well. This photo captures this week’s. The Torah portion’s title is selected from the first few words of the passage. You will notice all of these passages have to do with sending out (i.e. spies & apostles). I hope you had a peacful, wholesome #Shabbat!

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Will People Be “Raptured” To Heaven?

Many evangelical Christians believe in something called “the rapture” where the dead Christians will be resurrected and the Christians alive at that time will all be whisked away to heaven when Jesus returns for them and then Jesus and “his saints” will hide out in heaven for 7 years or so while God pours out His wrath on Earth to those who rejected Jesus. Then, according to this doctrine taught throughout some evangelical protestant denominations, Jesus will come back to Earth for technically a third time and bring all his peeps with him to rule and reign. 

Now, imagine being up high up in the sky as if parasailing and getting to see the big picture. It would certainly change your perspective. Using a plethora of Scriptures, this article lifts you above the doctrinal distractions to help you see the big picture.

As a foundational reminder, Amos 3:7 tells us God does nothing without revealing it to His prophets first.

THE THREE R’S

The prophets of the Hebrew Bible say nothing about people who must believe in a Messiah to be saved, forgiven, or to have eternal life. Nor do they say anything about a rapture of believers in a Messiah. The prophets do, however, predict people will be resurrected, rescued, and restored.

RESURRECTED

Let’s take a look at some Scriptures within the prophetic books that speak to a resurrection. The text we are reviewing can be found in Daniel 12:1-2, Isaiah 26:18-19, Ezekiel 37:12.

The prophetic book of Daniel was penned during the time that the exiled Jews were living in Babylon. So when this angel relayed these words to Daniel, the angel was referring to Jews as “your people” way in the future. Specifically, this prophecy is believed by Orthodox rabbis to be referring to the Battle led by Gog of Magog. Clearly, the angel is telling Daniel with the intention he will write it down for future generations to know and be encouraged that during that awful time Jews will be rescued if they are not blotted out of the book of life, meaning if they are still alive at this time. Zechariah 14 and Ezekiel 38 also describe this horrific battle of Gog and Magog (note: many Orthodox rabbis believe we are in the end times battle of Gog and Magog now since October 7, 2023, the day Israel’s enemies succeeded in a surprise attack similar to the one described in Ezekiel 38).

In regards to the expression, inscribed in the book, meaning the Book of Life, other passages within the Hebrew Bible equate that expression to mean an Israelite, now known as Jews, are literally alive because they haven’t transgressed the Torah, God’s instructions. In other words, to intentionally violate God’s boundaries means one will be removed or blotted out from the Book of Life. This is why on Yom Kippur, Jews strive to be inscribed in the Book of Life for another year by carefully examining their lifestyle and repenting to God and others when necessary.

Daniel 12, verses 1 and 2, indicate that those Jews (not Christians) who are alive during this devestating time will be rescued, whereas many of those that are dead, will be resurrected. Some sects of Orthodox Judaism teach there will be two resurrections – one will be for the Jews (Israelites) wherever Jews are located globally, with the Jews buried in Jerusalem resurrected first, and a separate resurrection for Gentiles (non-Jews) later. However, there are very few references of a resurrection in the Hebrew Bible; thus, how many resurrections there are, what that will look like, and the timing, are all speculated, but the general consensus among sects of Orthodox Judaism is everyone is resurrected at some point in the future. Generally speaking, Reform Judaism, a more liberal denomination of Judaism, does not focus on mystical and mysterious prophecies or the World-To-Come; rather, bringing heaven to earth here and now is the focus. Nevertheless, hints of resurrection are found within the prayers, songs, and poems of the Reform Judaism siddur (prayer book used at each worship service).

Notice in Eze. 37:12 the reference to “O My People” a.k.a. Jews/Israel and that God will bring them “to the land of Israel.” Not raptured to heaven.

RESCUED

We touched on Jews being rescued, but let’s take a closer look at these passages found in Jeremiah 16:14-16, Ezekiel 34:27-29, and Zechariah 8 and 12.

This particular text in Jeremiah 16 is interesting because it reveals this rescue operation of the Jews will make the original Exodus story look like nothing compared to this greater exodus to come. I didn’t type out the entire text, but I also wanted to point out how God says through the prophet Jeremiah that it will be as if God is sending fishermen to haul out Jews. What exactly that looks like is yet to be determined, but you get the idea God loves Jews very much and promises to rescue Jews at that terrible moment. It’s going to be epic!

God is all about making His Name known or His Presence and authority known. He’s all about taking people from a culture of worshiping many false gods to a culture of worshipping Him the One True God. God desires direct, personal relationship with everyone. Just as He made Himself known to both the Israelites and Egyptians in the Book of Exodus, God will do so again when He rescues Jews in the future. At that time, all of the Jewish and non-Jewish populations worldwide will know who the One True God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is!

Here we have yet again (see above), God saying through a different prophet that He will rescue Jews from wherever they are in the globe, and notice the text says they will be brought to Jerusalem to permanently dwell. It says nothing about saving Jews to live in heaven, nor rapturing anyone, but rather this Scripture and others emphasize bringing heaven to earth as God’s presence dwells on Earth in Jerusalem among God’s people: Jews.

This verse I included because it speaks to how much God loves Jerusalem inferring Jews living in that holy city. It also validates what God told Abraham when He said in Genesis 12:3, I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you. Note: If you want to survive all that’s to come, don’t say or do anything against Israel/Jews (see Zechariah 14). Because to do so, is to harm those in the apple of God’s eye (Zechariah 2:8). I feel like most evangelical Christians are aware of this important truth, thankfully.

Although Isaiah 56 doesn’t specifically refer to Jews being rescued, I’m including it within this teaching, because it does state that anyone who chooses to keep God’s covenant, meaning live by the instructions He gave Israel at Mt. Sinai, will also be brought to Israel. It infers these Jews-By-Choice (converts) will also be rescued. This chapter of Isaiah 56 later says these individuals will be considered even better than sons and daughters, meaning naturally born Jews (because they volunteered for this lifestyle on their own when they could have chosen an easier path).

TORAH: The Sacred Highway to God’s presence, Jerusalem, Heaven on Earth

Although the prophets don’t directly state how the rescued Jews will travel to Jerusalem, there are hints particularly in the Book of Isaiah that Jews may travel by foot on a sacred highway or road of sorts. In other passages, it describes a worldwide earthquake, mountains crumbling, and land moving. Perhaps continents reconnect or the seas part so Jews (and non-Jews) will be able to get to Jerusalem by road similar to how God paved an unexpected path through the Reed Sea when the Israelites fled Egypt. Of course, airfare seems like a more realistic option currently!

In Zechariah 14:16-21, even non-Jews must come to Jerusalem to celebrate and worship God for the holy holiday of Sukkot, also known as Feast of Tabernacles or Feast of Booths. Presumably, both the Jew and non-Jew could travel to Jerusalem using the new and improved Interstate known as the “Sacred Highway.” Ha-ha!

RESTORED

In addition to the prophets revealing a resurrection and rescue of Jews, the prophets also reveal that the physical wealth of Jews will be restored in Israel. “Double for your trouble” you could say. I have listed only a few passages that refer to this concept, but there are many more.

Isaiah repeatedly speaks to the fact that leaders of other nations, kings, will fall in line as they will be subservient to the kingdom of Israel (see above). With that said, you may want to study Isaiah 52 and 53 to understand how kings or leaders of other nations will be shocked to see Israel, the once suffering servant will be elevated. That’s right, Isaiah 53 isn’t describing Jesus, but rather Isaiah clearly identifies several times leading up to that infamous and misunderstood passage that Israel is the servant.

In Jeremiah 30:18-19, we once again see yet a different prophet refers to Israel as “outcast” whereas Isaiah chose “suffering servant,” but Jews are not despised forever. For here, as in many other passages, God encourages Jews documenting that God has a plan to restore, rebuild, and replant. Moreover, to elevate Jews and the nation of Israel.

CONCLUSION

As highlighted earlier, God reveals His plans through His prophets (Amos 3:7). Isn’t it strange that there are no texts in the entire Jewish Bible, or “Old Testament,” about non-Jews or Jews being raptured to heaven or anything pertaining to such doctrine? Interestingly, the prophet Jeremiah says that at that time the Gentiles (non-Jews) will be shocked and realize they were taught lies. Notice it doesn’t say Jews will be shocked, but specifically, the prophets declare the Gentiles will be surprised. I know I sure was upon realizing all of this.

In conclusion, the prophets of the Hebrew Bible make no mention of people being raptured to heaven but do frequently refer to Jews being resurrected, rescued, and restored to Israel.

SOUL-WORK

To study this topic more, I invite you to review the following passages in addition to the ones already presented:

  • Deuteronomy 30:3-4;
  • 1 Chronicles 16:35;
  • Nehemiah 1:9;
  • Psalms 2:6; 48:1-2; 74:2; 78:68; 87:1-7; 102:16; 106:47; 107:2-3; 125:1; 132:13-14; 147:2;
  • Isaiah 2:3; 11:11-12; 43:5; 56:8; 59:20;
  • Jeremiah 3:14-18; 29:14; 31:8,10; 32:37;
  • Ezekiel 11:17; 20:34-41; 28:25; 34:13; 37:21; 39:27-28;
  • Hosea 11:10;
  • Micah 2:12; 4:2;
  • Zephaniah 3:20;
  • Zechariah 10:10.

To investigate passages referring to being ‘inscribed in the book’ or being ‘blotted out’ meaning those living or dead, see these Scriptures:

  • Daniel 12:1-2;
  • Exodus 17:14; 32:32-33;
  • Deuteronomy 25:6,19;
  • Psalm 9:5-6; 56:8; 69:27-28; 139:16;
  • Malachi 3:16.

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