Mount Sinai
Introduction
About seven weeks after the Israelites were released from bondage in Egypt, they arrived at Mount Sinai.
In the third month after the Israelites left Egypt — on the very day — they came to the Desert of Sinai. After they set out from Rephidim, they entered the Desert of Sinai, and Israel camped there in the desert in front of the mountain, Ex. 19:1-2 NIV.
Moses and Mount Sinai
Many people may feel that Moses went up to the top of Mount Sinai once, maybe twice, to receive the two tablets of stone. However, by reading Exodus chapters 19 – 34, one will read that Moses went six times to the top of Mount Sinai to speak with Yahweh.
In Ex. 19:3-6, the first time Moses went up onto Mount Sinai, Yahweh told Moses to go down from the mount and remind the Israelites to keep His covenant because they were a “valued possession” unto Him. The Israelites told Moses that they would obey Yahweh, verse 8.
And all the people answered together, and said, All that Yahweh hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto Yahweh.
In Ex. 19:10-16, the second time Moses went up onto Mount Sinai, Yahweh told Moses to go down from the mount and tell the Israelites to “sanctify themselves today and tomorrow, and let them wash their clothes, and be ready against the third day: for the third day Yahweh will come down in the sight of all the People upon mount Sinai.”
The reason Yahweh wanted the Israelites to wash their clothes was not because their clothes were dirty from all the traveling they had done, but to do it as an act of purification because Yahweh was to “come down in the sight of all the People.”
In explaining Ex. 19:1 (In the third month, when the children of Israel were gone forth out of the land of Egypt, the same day came they into the wilderness of Sinai), Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown Commentary (Electronic Database. Copyright © 1997, 2003 by Biblesoft, Inc. All rights reserved) says, “according to Jewish usage, the first of that month – ‘same day,’ it is added, to mark the time more explicitly - i.e., 45 days after leaving Egypt-one day spent on the mount (Ex. 19:3), one returning people's answers (Ex. 19:7-8), three days of preparation-making the whole time fifty days from the first Passover to the promulgation of the law. Hence, the Feast of Pentecost, i.e., the 50th day, was the inauguration of the Old Testament Church; and the divine wisdom is apparent in the selection of the same season for the restitution of the New Testament Church (John 1:17; Acts 2:1).”
Counting, this will bring the mentioned third day to be the fifth day of the third month. The Israelites left Egypt on the fifteenth day of the first month. By adding the number of days in the second month and the five days of the third month to this, it will bring the mentioned third day to be fifty days after they left Egypt.
In Ex. 19:20-24, the third time Moses went to the top of Mount Sinai, he spoke with Yahweh and Yahweh told Moses to go down and return with Aaron.
Before Moses went up unto Mount Sinai a fourth time he told the Israelites what Yahweh told him to say and this is recorded for us in Exodus, chapters 20-24:8.
Ex. 20:1-17 lists the Ten Commandments which form the spiritual basis of the Covenant, while verses 18-26 tell us that the Israelites were to make an earthly altar upon which sacrifices were to be made.
Ex. 21:1-11 give the judgments set for servants and their masters.
Ex. 21:12-36 speaks of what was to be done when personal injuries occur by man or beast.
Ex. 22:1-15 says what must be done if one causes harm to someone else’s animals or fields, or if someone else is keeping or has borrowed your animal and it dies, is driven away or is stolen.
Various evil practices are alluded to in Ex. 22:16 – 23:9 along with their punishment.
Ex. 23:10-19 speak of the Sabbath of rest for man (seventh day), the Sabbath of rest for land (seventh year), and three of the seven annual Sabbaths (Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Firstfruits and Feast of Tabernacles, when man is to appear before Yahweh).
In Ex. 23:20-33, Yahweh says He will send an angel to accompany the Israelites as they travel. This angel will remain with them as long as they serve Yahweh. Who is this angel? Verse 21 says that Yahweh’s name is in Him. This can only point to Yahshua.
Forty Days
Beginning with Ex. 24:9 – 32:14, we read of Moses’ fourth ascent onto Mount Sinai and what Yahweh told him. In Ex. 24:12, Moses was told that Yahweh would give him tables of stone, and a law, and commandments which He has written; that thou mayest teach them.
It was during this ascent that Moses spent 40 days and 40 nights in the mountain, Ex. 24:18, during which time Moses did not eat bread nor drink water.
When I was gone up into the mount to receive the tables of stone, even the tables of the covenant which Yahweh made with you, then I abode in the mount forty days and forty nights, I neither did eat bread nor drink water, Deut. 9:9.
Forty is a meaningful number in Scriptures. It rained for forty days and forty nights when the great flood of Noah’s time came:
For yet seven days, and I will cause it to rain upon the earth forty days and forty nights; and every living substance that I have made will I destroy from off the face of the earth, Gen. 7:4.
The Israelites ate manna for forty years in the dessert:
And the children of Israel did eat manna forty years, until they came to a land inhabited; they did eat manna, until they came unto the borders of the land of Canaan, Ex. 16:35.
Why did the Israelites have to wander for 40 years in the wilderness?
And thou shalt remember all the way which Yahweh thy Elohim led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep His commandments, or no, Deut. 8:2
What was the purpose of the Israelites wandering for 40 years?
For the children of Israel walked forty years in the wilderness, till all the people that were men of war, which came out of Egypt, were consumed, because they obeyed not the voice of Yahweh: unto whom Yahweh sware that He would not shew them the land, which Yahweh sware unto their fathers that He would give us, a land that floweth with milk and honey, Josh. 5:6.
The spies which Moses sent into the land of Canaan to search the land spent forty days searching:
And they returned from searching of the land after forty days, Num. 13:25.
Yahshua fasted for 40 days and 40 nights:
Then Yahshua was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, He was hungry, Matt. 4:1-2 NIV.
The Companion Bible notes that the number forty denotes probation or the act of testing.
The Tables of the Covenant
During Moses’ stay when he made his fourth ascent to the top of the mount, he was told many things, Ex. 24:9 – 32:14.
And Yahweh said unto Moses, Come up to Me into the mount, and be there: and I will give thee tables of stone, and a law, and commandments which I have written; that thou mayest teach them, Ex. 24:12.
And He gave unto Moses, when He had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of Elohim, Ex. 31:18.
These two tables of stone are called the Tables of the Covenant:
And it came to pass at the end of forty days and forty nights, that Yahweh gave me the two tables of stone, even the tables of the covenant, Deut. 9:11.
Just how important were these two tables of stone? They were part of the covenant which Yahweh made with Israel.
There was nothing in the ark save the two tables of stone, which Moses put there at Horeb where Yahweh made a covenant with the children of Israel, when they came out of the land of Egypt, 1 Kings 8:9.
Since Moses spent some 40 days and 40 nights at the top of the mount communing with Yahweh, what were the Israelites doing during this time?
And when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down out of the mount, the people gathered themselves together unto Aaron, and said unto him, Up, make us gods, which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become
of him. And Aaron said unto them, Break off the golden earrings, which are in the ears of your wives, of your sons, and of your daughters, and bring them unto me. And all the people brake off the golden earrings which were in their ears, and brought them unto Aaron. And he received them at their hand, and fashioned it with a graving tool, after he had made it a molten calf: and they said, These be thy mighty ones, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, Ex. 32:1-4.
They have turned aside quickly out of the way which I commanded them: they have made them a molten calf, and have worshipped it, and have sacrificed thereunto, and said, These be thy gods, O Israel, which have brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, Ex. 32:8.
When Yahweh saw what Israel did what was His response?
And Yahweh said unto Moses, I have seen this people, and, behold, it is a stiffnecked people: Now therefore let Me alone, that My wrath may wax hot against them, and that I may consume them: and I will make of thee a great nation, Ex. 32:9-10.
How did Moses reply?
And Moses besought Yahweh his Elohim, and said, Yahweh, why doth Thy wrath wax hot against Thy people, which Thou hast brought forth out of the land of Egypt with great power, and with a mighty hand? Wherefore should the Egyptians speak, and say, For mischief did He bring them out, to slay them in the mountains, and to consume them from the face of the earth? Turn from Thy fierce wrath, and repent of this evil against Thy people. Remember Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, Thy servants, to whom Thou swarest by Thine own self, and saidst unto them, I will multiply your seed as the stars of heaven, and all this land that I have spoken of will I give unto your seed, and they shall inherit it for ever, Ex. 32:11-13.
Was Moses convincing?
And Yahweh repented of the evil which He thought to do unto His people, Ex. 32:14.
The word “repented” is the translation of the Hebrew word nacham, which is a primitive root; properly, to sigh, i.e. breathe strongly; by implication, to be sorry, i.e. (in a favorable sense) to pity, console or (reflexively) rue; or (unfavorably) to avenge (oneself), Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.
The NIV translation replaces “repented” with “relented,” which makes it easier to understand since Yahweh can do no wrong.
The Colors Used in the Tabernacle
In chapters 24-31 of Exodus, Yahweh speaks of two subjects. First was the giving of the law. And, second, also of great importance and significance, He speaks of the physical parts of the tabernacle, the clothing of the priests and their consecration, the animals which are to be sacrificed, the liquids to be used in ceremonies, and the special Holy Days that are to be observed.
The reason why the tabernacle is of great importance and significance is that each major component of the tabernacle points toward Yahshua. Even the four color scheme used does also.
White
White for purity, as Yahshua was pure. Therefore, since we have a great High Priest Who has gone through the heavens, Yahshua, the Son of Elohim, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have One who has been tempted in every way, just as we are — yet was without sin, Heb. 4:14-15 NIV.
Blue
Blue for heavenly and righteous things, as Yahshua was a heavenly, spiritual being Who came from the heavens to sacrifice His life for the sins of many.
Purple
Purple for kingship, as Yahshua will be our King when He returns to set up the Kingdom.
Red
Red for the blood which Yahshua shed when He sacrificed His life.
The Parts of the Tabernacle
The tabernacle in the wilderness was surrounded by a curtain which had only one entry way on the east side. The measurements of the courtyard were 100 cubits by 50 cubits (about 175 to 200 feet long and half as wide). This door was the only entrance the Levites had for them to enter into the courtyard of the tabernacle. This door symbolically represents Yahshua.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. This parable spake Yahshua unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them. Then said Yahshua unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before Me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture, John 10:1-9.
Yahshua saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me, John 14:6.
Furniture
Major pieces of furniture in the courtyard and the tabernacle:
1. Brazen altar on which the sacrifices were made – do we accept the blood sacrifice of Yahshua to cover our sins?
2. Laver used by the priest to spiritually cleanse themselves - after accepting Yahshua’s sacrifice are we willing to clean up our lives?
3. Shewbread – are we willing to consume unleavened bread representing Yahshua’s body at Passover?
4. Candlestick – do we allow ourselves to be guided by the Light – Yahshua?
5. Altar of Incense – do we offer prayers to Yahweh in Yahshua’s Name?
6. Ark and the Mercy Seat – are we aware of the New Covenant of grace available to us to obtain everlasting life and reign with Yahshua, our High Priest?
Moses’ Fourth Descent
It is significant to know what happened when Moses went down from the top of the mount after his fourth ascent.
And Yahweh said unto Moses, Go, get thee down; for thy people, which thou broughtest out of the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves, Ex. 32:7.
When Moses descended the mount what did he do when he saw the molten calf the Israelites made?
And it came to pass, as soon as he came nigh unto the camp, that he saw the calf, and the dancing: and Moses' anger waxed hot, and he cast the tables out of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount. And he took the calf which they had made, and burnt it in the fire, and ground it to powder, and strawed it upon the water, and made the children of Israel drink of it, Ex. 32:19-20.
What excuse did Aaron, Moses’ brother, give for allowing the people to make the molten calf?
And Moses said unto Aaron, What did this people unto thee, that thou hast brought so great a sin upon them? And Aaron said, Let not the anger of my lord wax hot: thou knowest the people, that they are set on mischief. For they said unto me, Make us mighty ones, which shall go before us: for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him. And I said unto them, Whosoever hath any gold, let them break it off. So they gave it me: then I cast it into the fire, and there came out this calf, Ex. 32:21-24.
At this time the people seemed to be acting as if in a frenzy.
Moses saw that the people were running wild and that Aaron had let them get out of control and so become a laughingstock to their enemies, Ex. 32:25 NIV.
What did Moses do? He posed a question to the Israelites and got a surprising answer.
Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on Yahweh’s side? Let him come unto me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him, Ex. 32:26.
With all the Israelites there, only those of the tribe of Levi showed their allegiance to Yahweh.
Moses told the people he had to return to the top of the mount to commune with Yahweh,
And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses said unto the people, Ye have sinned a great sin: and now I will go up unto Yahweh; peradventure I shall make an atonement for your sin, Ex. 32:30.
What was this grievous sin which the Israelites committed? It was idolatry.
Fifth Ascent
And Moses returned unto Yahweh, and said, Oh, this people have sinned a great sin, and have made them idols of gold. Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of Thy book which Thou hast written. And Yahweh said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against Me, him will I blot out of My book. Therefore now go, lead the people unto the place of which I have spoken unto thee: behold, mine Angel shall go before thee: nevertheless in the day when I visit I will visit their sin upon them. And Yahweh plagued the people, because they made the calf, which Aaron made, Ex. 32:31-35.
The word “plagued,” in verse 35, is the Hebrew OT:5062, a verb meaning to strike, to smite. This word is most often used within the context of warring nations when one nation struck another (Lev. 26:17; Num. 14:42; Deut. 28:7,25). At times, this was followed by the death of many (Judg. 20:35; 1 Sam. 4:10; 2 Sam. 18:7); at others, it merely signified defeat in war, with no mention of death (1 Kings 8:33; 2 Kings 14:12). [Yahweh] is often
the One Who smote, which led to incurable illness (2 Chron. 21:18; Zech. 14:12,18); or even death (1 Sam. 25:38; 2 Sam. 12:15). This word is also used to describe the stumbling of the foot (Prov. 3:23; Jer. 13:16); the causing of injury to another person (Ex. 21:22); or to an animal (Ex. 21:35). (From The Complete Word Study Dictionary: Old Testament Copyright © 2003 by AMG Publishers. All rights reserved.)
These are strong words which Yahweh said unto Moses. Subsequent Scriptures will show what Yahweh truly means since He knows the future before it happens.
Fifth Descent
At this time Moses told the Israelites what plans Yahweh has for them.
And Yahweh said unto Moses, Depart, and go up hence, thou and the people which thou hast brought up out of the land of Egypt, unto the land which I sware unto Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, saying, Unto thy seed will I give it: And I will send an angel before thee; and I will drive out the Canaanite, the Amorite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite: Unto a land flowing with milk and honey: for I will not go up in the midst of thee; for thou art a stiffnecked people: lest I consume thee in the way, Ex. 33:1-3.
While Moses was still with the Israelites, he communed with Yahweh in a tent:
And Moses took the tabernacle, and pitched it without the camp, afar off from the camp, and called it the Tabernacle of the congregation. And it came to pass, that every one which sought Yahweh went out unto the tabernacle of the congregation, which was without the camp, Ex. 33:7.
The tabernacle spoken of here is not the Tabernacle in the Wilderness because this tabernacle was yet to be built.
Here Yahweh had Moses hew two tables of stone to replace those which Moses broke, Ex. 32:19.
Sixth Ascent
On Moses’ last trip to the top of the mount he stayed for another forty days and forty nights.
And he was there with Yahweh forty days and forty nights; he did neither eat bread, nor drink water. And he wrote upon the tables the words of the covenant, the ten commandments, Ex. 34:28.
At this time Yahweh spoke to Moses concerning the keeping of the commandments of Yahweh, the Sabbaths (both weekly and annually), and the covenant. Yahweh also promised to drive out all the inhabitants of the lands before the Israelites if they would obey Him and “break down their altars, smash their sacred stones and cut down their Asherah poles,” Ex. 34:13.
But, do they?
In the last six chapters of the book of Exodus we can read that the Israelites constructed the Tabernacle of Yahweh, the furniture and all the needed hangings. And, about one year after leaving Egypt the Tabernacle of Yahweh was completed and the Israelites were ready to continue their journey toward the Promised Land.
Pentecost Changes
Yahweh’s promises and instructions to His people Israel concerning what He expected from Israel was clearly given in the Old Testament. The New Testament makes these verses more binding because the Holy (set-apart) Spirit was sent on Pentecost to remain on earth. We now seek the deeper spiritual sense and applications of His word and obey from the heart. Yahweh teaches spiritual truth and understanding from physical lessons. This is especially true of Pentecost and the other Feast days.
Yahweh’s initial Covenant (agreement) took place with Israel after they left Egypt and came to Mount Sinai. The ratifying of the Covenant by Israel took place 50 days after leaving Egypt, on Pentecost or on the “Feast of Weeks:”
And all the people answered together, and said, All that Yahweh hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto Yahweh, Ex.19:8 AV.
Chapter 20 of Exodus lays out the Ten Commandments.
And Moses came and told the people all the words of Yahweh, and all the judgments: and all the people answered with one voice, and said, All the words which Yahweh hath said will we do, Ex. 24:3 AV.
Three requirements for Yahweh’s appearance were the cleansing of the body and clothing (Ex. 19:10), confining Israel to the camp and limited freedom with sexual abstention (Ex. 19:15). [Example see 1 Sam. 21:4-5] This precaution shows the seriousness and holiness of allowing the Spirit of Yahweh to remain on earth in Acts chapter two.
The New Testament was built on the Old Testament often having direct quotes as proof these indeed are Yahweh’s Words. Having been given the “earnest” (down payment) of the Holy Spirit through our baptism, we find the New Testament open to our spiritual understanding. Our spiritual comprehension is taken to a higher level, allowing us to have Yahweh’s point of view and see things from His vantage point. If every human kept the Commandments, what a great world this would be! We are in training now to live our lives in obedience to Yahweh’s laws.
Pentecost brought with it a big difference by the New Testament. In the Old Testament the Holy ( Set-apart) Spirit was given when needed, but was taken back to Yahweh when it had accomplished the task. Now Yahweh’s Spirit became available to Yahweh’s baptized people and remains on earth (Acts 1:4-5). Since Calvary, the Holy Spirit is indwelling Yahweh’s obedient people and helps us keep the Law:
This [is] the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith Yahweh, I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; Heb. 10:16 AV.
See also Heb 8:8-10.
The Old Testament teaches that a year old male lamb and a grain and drink offering were a part of the Pentecost service and the burnt offering and two loaves according to Leviticus 23:9-21 were a special offering on Pentecost:
And he sent young men of the children of Israel, which offered burnt offerings, and sacrificed peace offerings of oxen unto Yahweh, Ex. 24:5 AV.
The New Testament says we can have Yahweh’s attention at anytime and address Yahweh if we sincerely seek Him and no animal sacrifice is required for we now have faith in Yahshua and put into practice what we have learned.
By a new and living way, which He hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh, Heb. 10:20 AV.
But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship Him. Elohim [is] Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship [Him] in spirit and in truth, John 4:23-24 AV.
Becoming A Member
The Old Testament
Circumcision is a physical sign of faith in an agreement or covenant that Yahweh and Abraham agreed upon.
This [is] My covenant, which ye shall keep, between Me and you and thy seed after thee; Every man child among you shall be circumcised, Gen. 17:10 AV.
The New Testament
The New Testament goes beyond the physical and shows the spiritual meaning of circumcision is that of an obedient and willing heart:
But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the spirit, [and] not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of Elohim, Rom. 2:29 AV.
Note that the New Testament emphasizes our attitude, our goals and our aspirations. We are to live Yahweh’s laws and make His laws our way of life. We make Yahweh’s instructions come to life as we learn to think like Him, act like Him, walk like Him and love like Him. Meditate how we can bring His words into action now that we already have been given the Holy Spirit through baptism into Yahshua’s name. On Pentecost the Spirit of Yahweh came to earth to abide forever because of Calvary. We are now to seek the spiritual meaning and understanding of His Word.
Note the changes made in the New Covenant from the Old Covenant:
O Yahweh, How great are Thy works; and Thy thoughts are very deep! (Psa. 92:5.)
Highlight Of Pentecost
The Old Testament
The significant fact of what is associated with Pentecost while in the Wilderness of Zin, is the giving of the law to Yahweh’s People at Mount Sinai.
The New Testament
The significant fact that is associated with Pentecost in the New Testament, just after Yahshua’s sacrifice, was the giving of Yahweh’s Holy Spirit.
Old Testament - New And Living Way
Temple worship Jerusalem - Worship anywhere on earth,
Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship Him. Yahweh is spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth, John 4:22-24.
Circumcied 8th day - Baptized into New Covenant,
Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Yahshua Messiah for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit,” Acts 2:38 NIV.
High priest of Aaron - Melchisedek priesthood,
But now hath He obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also He is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises ... And being made perfect, He became the Author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him; called of Yahweh an high priest after the order of Melchisedec, Heb. 8:6; 5:9-10
Males are circumcised - Men and women are baptized,
Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Yahshua Messiah for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit ... But when they believed Philip as he preached the good news of the kingdom of Yahweh and the name of Yahshua Messiah, they were baptized, both men and women, Acts 2:38; 8:12 NIV.
Spirit active by priest - Yahweh’s Spirit resides in ekklesia (the assembly),
Don’t you know that you yourselves are Yahweh’s temple (assembly) and that Yahweh’s Spirit lives in you? (1 Cor. 3:16 NIV).
Priests active in Temple - We are Living Temple, Living stones,
You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to Yahweh through Yahshua Messiah, 1 Pet. 2:5 NIV.
Temple destroyed 70 CE - Believer’s Body a Living Temple,
What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy [Spirit] which is in you, which ye have of Yahweh, and ye are not your own? (1 Cor. 6:19).
Offer animal sacrifice - Spiritual worship from heart,
For we are His workmanship, created in Messiah Yahshua unto good works, which Yahweh hath before ordained that we should walk in them, Eph. 2:10.
Conclusion
Amazing indeed is the program Yahweh has for those He has called out of this world for His special purpose. Many who have been called simply do not realize they are being given the opportunity for a special work that is out of this world. It all began with Abraham shortly after creation, and will continue to grow until the called and chosen are all selected and prepared. We await Yahshua’s return as He restores all things,
Unto him be glory in the [assembly] by Messiah Yahshua throughout all ages, world without end, Eph. 3:21.
Pentecost is one of the three Pilgrim Feasts but has more New Covenant changes than either Unleavened Bread or Tabernacles. It is the true spiritual message we should grasp and live by as we watch for Yahshua’s return.
About seven weeks after the Israelites were released from bondage in Egypt, they arrived at Mount Sinai.
In the third month after the Israelites left Egypt — on the very day — they came to the Desert of Sinai. After they set out from Rephidim, they entered the Desert of Sinai, and Israel camped there in the desert in front of the mountain, Ex. 19:1-2 NIV.
Moses and Mount Sinai
Many people may feel that Moses went up to the top of Mount Sinai once, maybe twice, to receive the two tablets of stone. However, by reading Exodus chapters 19 – 34, one will read that Moses went six times to the top of Mount Sinai to speak with Yahweh.
In Ex. 19:3-6, the first time Moses went up onto Mount Sinai, Yahweh told Moses to go down from the mount and remind the Israelites to keep His covenant because they were a “valued possession” unto Him. The Israelites told Moses that they would obey Yahweh, verse 8.
And all the people answered together, and said, All that Yahweh hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto Yahweh.
In Ex. 19:10-16, the second time Moses went up onto Mount Sinai, Yahweh told Moses to go down from the mount and tell the Israelites to “sanctify themselves today and tomorrow, and let them wash their clothes, and be ready against the third day: for the third day Yahweh will come down in the sight of all the People upon mount Sinai.”
The reason Yahweh wanted the Israelites to wash their clothes was not because their clothes were dirty from all the traveling they had done, but to do it as an act of purification because Yahweh was to “come down in the sight of all the People.”
In explaining Ex. 19:1 (In the third month, when the children of Israel were gone forth out of the land of Egypt, the same day came they into the wilderness of Sinai), Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown Commentary (Electronic Database. Copyright © 1997, 2003 by Biblesoft, Inc. All rights reserved) says, “according to Jewish usage, the first of that month – ‘same day,’ it is added, to mark the time more explicitly - i.e., 45 days after leaving Egypt-one day spent on the mount (Ex. 19:3), one returning people's answers (Ex. 19:7-8), three days of preparation-making the whole time fifty days from the first Passover to the promulgation of the law. Hence, the Feast of Pentecost, i.e., the 50th day, was the inauguration of the Old Testament Church; and the divine wisdom is apparent in the selection of the same season for the restitution of the New Testament Church (John 1:17; Acts 2:1).”
Counting, this will bring the mentioned third day to be the fifth day of the third month. The Israelites left Egypt on the fifteenth day of the first month. By adding the number of days in the second month and the five days of the third month to this, it will bring the mentioned third day to be fifty days after they left Egypt.
In Ex. 19:20-24, the third time Moses went to the top of Mount Sinai, he spoke with Yahweh and Yahweh told Moses to go down and return with Aaron.
Before Moses went up unto Mount Sinai a fourth time he told the Israelites what Yahweh told him to say and this is recorded for us in Exodus, chapters 20-24:8.
Ex. 20:1-17 lists the Ten Commandments which form the spiritual basis of the Covenant, while verses 18-26 tell us that the Israelites were to make an earthly altar upon which sacrifices were to be made.
Ex. 21:1-11 give the judgments set for servants and their masters.
Ex. 21:12-36 speaks of what was to be done when personal injuries occur by man or beast.
Ex. 22:1-15 says what must be done if one causes harm to someone else’s animals or fields, or if someone else is keeping or has borrowed your animal and it dies, is driven away or is stolen.
Various evil practices are alluded to in Ex. 22:16 – 23:9 along with their punishment.
Ex. 23:10-19 speak of the Sabbath of rest for man (seventh day), the Sabbath of rest for land (seventh year), and three of the seven annual Sabbaths (Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Firstfruits and Feast of Tabernacles, when man is to appear before Yahweh).
In Ex. 23:20-33, Yahweh says He will send an angel to accompany the Israelites as they travel. This angel will remain with them as long as they serve Yahweh. Who is this angel? Verse 21 says that Yahweh’s name is in Him. This can only point to Yahshua.
Forty Days
Beginning with Ex. 24:9 – 32:14, we read of Moses’ fourth ascent onto Mount Sinai and what Yahweh told him. In Ex. 24:12, Moses was told that Yahweh would give him tables of stone, and a law, and commandments which He has written; that thou mayest teach them.
It was during this ascent that Moses spent 40 days and 40 nights in the mountain, Ex. 24:18, during which time Moses did not eat bread nor drink water.
When I was gone up into the mount to receive the tables of stone, even the tables of the covenant which Yahweh made with you, then I abode in the mount forty days and forty nights, I neither did eat bread nor drink water, Deut. 9:9.
Forty is a meaningful number in Scriptures. It rained for forty days and forty nights when the great flood of Noah’s time came:
For yet seven days, and I will cause it to rain upon the earth forty days and forty nights; and every living substance that I have made will I destroy from off the face of the earth, Gen. 7:4.
The Israelites ate manna for forty years in the dessert:
And the children of Israel did eat manna forty years, until they came to a land inhabited; they did eat manna, until they came unto the borders of the land of Canaan, Ex. 16:35.
Why did the Israelites have to wander for 40 years in the wilderness?
And thou shalt remember all the way which Yahweh thy Elohim led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep His commandments, or no, Deut. 8:2
What was the purpose of the Israelites wandering for 40 years?
For the children of Israel walked forty years in the wilderness, till all the people that were men of war, which came out of Egypt, were consumed, because they obeyed not the voice of Yahweh: unto whom Yahweh sware that He would not shew them the land, which Yahweh sware unto their fathers that He would give us, a land that floweth with milk and honey, Josh. 5:6.
The spies which Moses sent into the land of Canaan to search the land spent forty days searching:
And they returned from searching of the land after forty days, Num. 13:25.
Yahshua fasted for 40 days and 40 nights:
Then Yahshua was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, He was hungry, Matt. 4:1-2 NIV.
The Companion Bible notes that the number forty denotes probation or the act of testing.
The Tables of the Covenant
During Moses’ stay when he made his fourth ascent to the top of the mount, he was told many things, Ex. 24:9 – 32:14.
And Yahweh said unto Moses, Come up to Me into the mount, and be there: and I will give thee tables of stone, and a law, and commandments which I have written; that thou mayest teach them, Ex. 24:12.
And He gave unto Moses, when He had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of Elohim, Ex. 31:18.
These two tables of stone are called the Tables of the Covenant:
And it came to pass at the end of forty days and forty nights, that Yahweh gave me the two tables of stone, even the tables of the covenant, Deut. 9:11.
Just how important were these two tables of stone? They were part of the covenant which Yahweh made with Israel.
There was nothing in the ark save the two tables of stone, which Moses put there at Horeb where Yahweh made a covenant with the children of Israel, when they came out of the land of Egypt, 1 Kings 8:9.
Since Moses spent some 40 days and 40 nights at the top of the mount communing with Yahweh, what were the Israelites doing during this time?
And when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down out of the mount, the people gathered themselves together unto Aaron, and said unto him, Up, make us gods, which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become
of him. And Aaron said unto them, Break off the golden earrings, which are in the ears of your wives, of your sons, and of your daughters, and bring them unto me. And all the people brake off the golden earrings which were in their ears, and brought them unto Aaron. And he received them at their hand, and fashioned it with a graving tool, after he had made it a molten calf: and they said, These be thy mighty ones, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, Ex. 32:1-4.
They have turned aside quickly out of the way which I commanded them: they have made them a molten calf, and have worshipped it, and have sacrificed thereunto, and said, These be thy gods, O Israel, which have brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, Ex. 32:8.
When Yahweh saw what Israel did what was His response?
And Yahweh said unto Moses, I have seen this people, and, behold, it is a stiffnecked people: Now therefore let Me alone, that My wrath may wax hot against them, and that I may consume them: and I will make of thee a great nation, Ex. 32:9-10.
How did Moses reply?
And Moses besought Yahweh his Elohim, and said, Yahweh, why doth Thy wrath wax hot against Thy people, which Thou hast brought forth out of the land of Egypt with great power, and with a mighty hand? Wherefore should the Egyptians speak, and say, For mischief did He bring them out, to slay them in the mountains, and to consume them from the face of the earth? Turn from Thy fierce wrath, and repent of this evil against Thy people. Remember Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, Thy servants, to whom Thou swarest by Thine own self, and saidst unto them, I will multiply your seed as the stars of heaven, and all this land that I have spoken of will I give unto your seed, and they shall inherit it for ever, Ex. 32:11-13.
Was Moses convincing?
And Yahweh repented of the evil which He thought to do unto His people, Ex. 32:14.
The word “repented” is the translation of the Hebrew word nacham, which is a primitive root; properly, to sigh, i.e. breathe strongly; by implication, to be sorry, i.e. (in a favorable sense) to pity, console or (reflexively) rue; or (unfavorably) to avenge (oneself), Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.
The NIV translation replaces “repented” with “relented,” which makes it easier to understand since Yahweh can do no wrong.
The Colors Used in the Tabernacle
In chapters 24-31 of Exodus, Yahweh speaks of two subjects. First was the giving of the law. And, second, also of great importance and significance, He speaks of the physical parts of the tabernacle, the clothing of the priests and their consecration, the animals which are to be sacrificed, the liquids to be used in ceremonies, and the special Holy Days that are to be observed.
The reason why the tabernacle is of great importance and significance is that each major component of the tabernacle points toward Yahshua. Even the four color scheme used does also.
White
White for purity, as Yahshua was pure. Therefore, since we have a great High Priest Who has gone through the heavens, Yahshua, the Son of Elohim, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have One who has been tempted in every way, just as we are — yet was without sin, Heb. 4:14-15 NIV.
Blue
Blue for heavenly and righteous things, as Yahshua was a heavenly, spiritual being Who came from the heavens to sacrifice His life for the sins of many.
Purple
Purple for kingship, as Yahshua will be our King when He returns to set up the Kingdom.
Red
Red for the blood which Yahshua shed when He sacrificed His life.
The Parts of the Tabernacle
The tabernacle in the wilderness was surrounded by a curtain which had only one entry way on the east side. The measurements of the courtyard were 100 cubits by 50 cubits (about 175 to 200 feet long and half as wide). This door was the only entrance the Levites had for them to enter into the courtyard of the tabernacle. This door symbolically represents Yahshua.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. This parable spake Yahshua unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them. Then said Yahshua unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before Me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture, John 10:1-9.
Yahshua saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me, John 14:6.
Furniture
Major pieces of furniture in the courtyard and the tabernacle:
1. Brazen altar on which the sacrifices were made – do we accept the blood sacrifice of Yahshua to cover our sins?
2. Laver used by the priest to spiritually cleanse themselves - after accepting Yahshua’s sacrifice are we willing to clean up our lives?
3. Shewbread – are we willing to consume unleavened bread representing Yahshua’s body at Passover?
4. Candlestick – do we allow ourselves to be guided by the Light – Yahshua?
5. Altar of Incense – do we offer prayers to Yahweh in Yahshua’s Name?
6. Ark and the Mercy Seat – are we aware of the New Covenant of grace available to us to obtain everlasting life and reign with Yahshua, our High Priest?
Moses’ Fourth Descent
It is significant to know what happened when Moses went down from the top of the mount after his fourth ascent.
And Yahweh said unto Moses, Go, get thee down; for thy people, which thou broughtest out of the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves, Ex. 32:7.
When Moses descended the mount what did he do when he saw the molten calf the Israelites made?
And it came to pass, as soon as he came nigh unto the camp, that he saw the calf, and the dancing: and Moses' anger waxed hot, and he cast the tables out of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount. And he took the calf which they had made, and burnt it in the fire, and ground it to powder, and strawed it upon the water, and made the children of Israel drink of it, Ex. 32:19-20.
What excuse did Aaron, Moses’ brother, give for allowing the people to make the molten calf?
And Moses said unto Aaron, What did this people unto thee, that thou hast brought so great a sin upon them? And Aaron said, Let not the anger of my lord wax hot: thou knowest the people, that they are set on mischief. For they said unto me, Make us mighty ones, which shall go before us: for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him. And I said unto them, Whosoever hath any gold, let them break it off. So they gave it me: then I cast it into the fire, and there came out this calf, Ex. 32:21-24.
At this time the people seemed to be acting as if in a frenzy.
Moses saw that the people were running wild and that Aaron had let them get out of control and so become a laughingstock to their enemies, Ex. 32:25 NIV.
What did Moses do? He posed a question to the Israelites and got a surprising answer.
Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on Yahweh’s side? Let him come unto me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him, Ex. 32:26.
With all the Israelites there, only those of the tribe of Levi showed their allegiance to Yahweh.
Moses told the people he had to return to the top of the mount to commune with Yahweh,
And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses said unto the people, Ye have sinned a great sin: and now I will go up unto Yahweh; peradventure I shall make an atonement for your sin, Ex. 32:30.
What was this grievous sin which the Israelites committed? It was idolatry.
Fifth Ascent
And Moses returned unto Yahweh, and said, Oh, this people have sinned a great sin, and have made them idols of gold. Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of Thy book which Thou hast written. And Yahweh said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against Me, him will I blot out of My book. Therefore now go, lead the people unto the place of which I have spoken unto thee: behold, mine Angel shall go before thee: nevertheless in the day when I visit I will visit their sin upon them. And Yahweh plagued the people, because they made the calf, which Aaron made, Ex. 32:31-35.
The word “plagued,” in verse 35, is the Hebrew OT:5062, a verb meaning to strike, to smite. This word is most often used within the context of warring nations when one nation struck another (Lev. 26:17; Num. 14:42; Deut. 28:7,25). At times, this was followed by the death of many (Judg. 20:35; 1 Sam. 4:10; 2 Sam. 18:7); at others, it merely signified defeat in war, with no mention of death (1 Kings 8:33; 2 Kings 14:12). [Yahweh] is often
the One Who smote, which led to incurable illness (2 Chron. 21:18; Zech. 14:12,18); or even death (1 Sam. 25:38; 2 Sam. 12:15). This word is also used to describe the stumbling of the foot (Prov. 3:23; Jer. 13:16); the causing of injury to another person (Ex. 21:22); or to an animal (Ex. 21:35). (From The Complete Word Study Dictionary: Old Testament Copyright © 2003 by AMG Publishers. All rights reserved.)
These are strong words which Yahweh said unto Moses. Subsequent Scriptures will show what Yahweh truly means since He knows the future before it happens.
Fifth Descent
At this time Moses told the Israelites what plans Yahweh has for them.
And Yahweh said unto Moses, Depart, and go up hence, thou and the people which thou hast brought up out of the land of Egypt, unto the land which I sware unto Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, saying, Unto thy seed will I give it: And I will send an angel before thee; and I will drive out the Canaanite, the Amorite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite: Unto a land flowing with milk and honey: for I will not go up in the midst of thee; for thou art a stiffnecked people: lest I consume thee in the way, Ex. 33:1-3.
While Moses was still with the Israelites, he communed with Yahweh in a tent:
And Moses took the tabernacle, and pitched it without the camp, afar off from the camp, and called it the Tabernacle of the congregation. And it came to pass, that every one which sought Yahweh went out unto the tabernacle of the congregation, which was without the camp, Ex. 33:7.
The tabernacle spoken of here is not the Tabernacle in the Wilderness because this tabernacle was yet to be built.
Here Yahweh had Moses hew two tables of stone to replace those which Moses broke, Ex. 32:19.
Sixth Ascent
On Moses’ last trip to the top of the mount he stayed for another forty days and forty nights.
And he was there with Yahweh forty days and forty nights; he did neither eat bread, nor drink water. And he wrote upon the tables the words of the covenant, the ten commandments, Ex. 34:28.
At this time Yahweh spoke to Moses concerning the keeping of the commandments of Yahweh, the Sabbaths (both weekly and annually), and the covenant. Yahweh also promised to drive out all the inhabitants of the lands before the Israelites if they would obey Him and “break down their altars, smash their sacred stones and cut down their Asherah poles,” Ex. 34:13.
But, do they?
In the last six chapters of the book of Exodus we can read that the Israelites constructed the Tabernacle of Yahweh, the furniture and all the needed hangings. And, about one year after leaving Egypt the Tabernacle of Yahweh was completed and the Israelites were ready to continue their journey toward the Promised Land.
Pentecost Changes
Yahweh’s promises and instructions to His people Israel concerning what He expected from Israel was clearly given in the Old Testament. The New Testament makes these verses more binding because the Holy (set-apart) Spirit was sent on Pentecost to remain on earth. We now seek the deeper spiritual sense and applications of His word and obey from the heart. Yahweh teaches spiritual truth and understanding from physical lessons. This is especially true of Pentecost and the other Feast days.
Yahweh’s initial Covenant (agreement) took place with Israel after they left Egypt and came to Mount Sinai. The ratifying of the Covenant by Israel took place 50 days after leaving Egypt, on Pentecost or on the “Feast of Weeks:”
And all the people answered together, and said, All that Yahweh hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto Yahweh, Ex.19:8 AV.
Chapter 20 of Exodus lays out the Ten Commandments.
And Moses came and told the people all the words of Yahweh, and all the judgments: and all the people answered with one voice, and said, All the words which Yahweh hath said will we do, Ex. 24:3 AV.
Three requirements for Yahweh’s appearance were the cleansing of the body and clothing (Ex. 19:10), confining Israel to the camp and limited freedom with sexual abstention (Ex. 19:15). [Example see 1 Sam. 21:4-5] This precaution shows the seriousness and holiness of allowing the Spirit of Yahweh to remain on earth in Acts chapter two.
The New Testament was built on the Old Testament often having direct quotes as proof these indeed are Yahweh’s Words. Having been given the “earnest” (down payment) of the Holy Spirit through our baptism, we find the New Testament open to our spiritual understanding. Our spiritual comprehension is taken to a higher level, allowing us to have Yahweh’s point of view and see things from His vantage point. If every human kept the Commandments, what a great world this would be! We are in training now to live our lives in obedience to Yahweh’s laws.
Pentecost brought with it a big difference by the New Testament. In the Old Testament the Holy ( Set-apart) Spirit was given when needed, but was taken back to Yahweh when it had accomplished the task. Now Yahweh’s Spirit became available to Yahweh’s baptized people and remains on earth (Acts 1:4-5). Since Calvary, the Holy Spirit is indwelling Yahweh’s obedient people and helps us keep the Law:
This [is] the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith Yahweh, I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; Heb. 10:16 AV.
See also Heb 8:8-10.
The Old Testament teaches that a year old male lamb and a grain and drink offering were a part of the Pentecost service and the burnt offering and two loaves according to Leviticus 23:9-21 were a special offering on Pentecost:
And he sent young men of the children of Israel, which offered burnt offerings, and sacrificed peace offerings of oxen unto Yahweh, Ex. 24:5 AV.
The New Testament says we can have Yahweh’s attention at anytime and address Yahweh if we sincerely seek Him and no animal sacrifice is required for we now have faith in Yahshua and put into practice what we have learned.
By a new and living way, which He hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh, Heb. 10:20 AV.
But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship Him. Elohim [is] Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship [Him] in spirit and in truth, John 4:23-24 AV.
Becoming A Member
The Old Testament
Circumcision is a physical sign of faith in an agreement or covenant that Yahweh and Abraham agreed upon.
This [is] My covenant, which ye shall keep, between Me and you and thy seed after thee; Every man child among you shall be circumcised, Gen. 17:10 AV.
The New Testament
The New Testament goes beyond the physical and shows the spiritual meaning of circumcision is that of an obedient and willing heart:
But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the spirit, [and] not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of Elohim, Rom. 2:29 AV.
Note that the New Testament emphasizes our attitude, our goals and our aspirations. We are to live Yahweh’s laws and make His laws our way of life. We make Yahweh’s instructions come to life as we learn to think like Him, act like Him, walk like Him and love like Him. Meditate how we can bring His words into action now that we already have been given the Holy Spirit through baptism into Yahshua’s name. On Pentecost the Spirit of Yahweh came to earth to abide forever because of Calvary. We are now to seek the spiritual meaning and understanding of His Word.
Note the changes made in the New Covenant from the Old Covenant:
O Yahweh, How great are Thy works; and Thy thoughts are very deep! (Psa. 92:5.)
Highlight Of Pentecost
The Old Testament
The significant fact of what is associated with Pentecost while in the Wilderness of Zin, is the giving of the law to Yahweh’s People at Mount Sinai.
The New Testament
The significant fact that is associated with Pentecost in the New Testament, just after Yahshua’s sacrifice, was the giving of Yahweh’s Holy Spirit.
Old Testament - New And Living Way
Temple worship Jerusalem - Worship anywhere on earth,
Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship Him. Yahweh is spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth, John 4:22-24.
Circumcied 8th day - Baptized into New Covenant,
Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Yahshua Messiah for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit,” Acts 2:38 NIV.
High priest of Aaron - Melchisedek priesthood,
But now hath He obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also He is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises ... And being made perfect, He became the Author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him; called of Yahweh an high priest after the order of Melchisedec, Heb. 8:6; 5:9-10
Males are circumcised - Men and women are baptized,
Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Yahshua Messiah for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit ... But when they believed Philip as he preached the good news of the kingdom of Yahweh and the name of Yahshua Messiah, they were baptized, both men and women, Acts 2:38; 8:12 NIV.
Spirit active by priest - Yahweh’s Spirit resides in ekklesia (the assembly),
Don’t you know that you yourselves are Yahweh’s temple (assembly) and that Yahweh’s Spirit lives in you? (1 Cor. 3:16 NIV).
Priests active in Temple - We are Living Temple, Living stones,
You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to Yahweh through Yahshua Messiah, 1 Pet. 2:5 NIV.
Temple destroyed 70 CE - Believer’s Body a Living Temple,
What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy [Spirit] which is in you, which ye have of Yahweh, and ye are not your own? (1 Cor. 6:19).
Offer animal sacrifice - Spiritual worship from heart,
For we are His workmanship, created in Messiah Yahshua unto good works, which Yahweh hath before ordained that we should walk in them, Eph. 2:10.
Conclusion
Amazing indeed is the program Yahweh has for those He has called out of this world for His special purpose. Many who have been called simply do not realize they are being given the opportunity for a special work that is out of this world. It all began with Abraham shortly after creation, and will continue to grow until the called and chosen are all selected and prepared. We await Yahshua’s return as He restores all things,
Unto him be glory in the [assembly] by Messiah Yahshua throughout all ages, world without end, Eph. 3:21.
Pentecost is one of the three Pilgrim Feasts but has more New Covenant changes than either Unleavened Bread or Tabernacles. It is the true spiritual message we should grasp and live by as we watch for Yahshua’s return.
-Elders Donald R. Mansager (deceased) and Roger G. Meyer
© 2007, 2015 Yahweh's Assemby in Yahshua
2963 County Road 233, Kingdom City, Missouri 65262
View us online at: www.YAIY.org
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2963 County Road 233, Kingdom City, Missouri 65262
View us online at: www.YAIY.org
Call Toll Free: (877) 642-4101
Main Line : (573) 642-4100