Restoration Times Magazine November/December 2013 by Yahweh's Restoration Ministry

l cia ay e Sp olid ion H dit E

C O N T E N T S

Magazine

VOL. 3 | No. 6 | November - December 2013

A R T I C L E S

3 | Christmas - The Untold Story of the World’s Superholly-day by Randy Folliard

11 | You CAN Afford the Feasts! by the late Donald R. Mansager

7 | ‘Happy’ Hanukkah? by Alan Mansager

8 | Hollow Days or Hallowed Days? by Alan Mansager

12 | Rethinking Your Paradigm by Randy Folliard 17 | The Devotion of Ruth by Joel Wirl

20 | Questions and Answers FRONT COVER: A stocking cap on top of the question mark begs the question what does the Bible say about holidays?

Restoration Times expounds the close ties between the Old and New Testaments. We teach the continuity and harmony that extend from Yahweh’s actions anciently down through His present activity in Yahshua the Messiah. This was also the conviction of the early New Testament Assembly. This publication is sent free of charge, made possible through the tithes and offerings of those who desire to see the truth of Scripture restored in our day. © 2013 Yahweh’s Restoration Ministry

23 | Feedback Yahweh’s Restoration Ministry PO Box 463 Holts Summit, MO 65043 Telephone: 573-896-1000 Office hours M-F 8am-4pm

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Christmas —

The Untold Story of the World’s Superholly-day

hat do a pine tree, a jolly ol’ elf, and gift-giving have in common with the Messiah Yahshua’s birth? Clearly, nothing. Today’s Christmas customs are not found in Scripture but in man-made tradition thousands of years old. We are going to take a journey through history and Scripture to understand the truth about this extravaganza of holidays. Built on a False Premise

First, consider the premise of Christmas. Do we have evidence that December 25th is the Messiah’s birth? According to scholarship, there’s no evidence that Yahshua was born on this day or anywhere close to it. For example, the New Catholic Encyclopedia states: “Inexplicable though it seems, the date of Christ’s birth is not known. The Gospels indicate neither the day nor the month” (1967, Christmas). The Roman Catholic Church chose December 25 as the date of the Messiah’s birth. No other evidence exists establishing that date. So we find here that the very source responsible for the establishment of December 25 as the birth date for the Savior admits that the actual date is unknown. Many other sources confirm its absence. For instance, the Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature says, “The fathers of the first three centuries do not speak of any special observance of the nativity. No corresponding festival was

by Randy Folliard presented by the Old Testament...the day and month of the birth of Christ are nowhere stated in the Gospel history, and cannot be certainly determined…” (1981, Christmas). This admission is staggering. The fathers of the first three centuries spoke nothing about the celebration of the Nativity. Clearly, the celebration of the Messiah’s birth was unknown to the men who governed the church for the first 300 years. You would think that such an important, historic event would have been understood by these stewards. The fact that the church fathers were oblivious to this observance shows that it has no early historical ties to Christianity. So if the day of the Messiah’s birth is not known even in the earliest years of the church, why then did the church later select December 25? What was so special about this day? Worship of Saturn

This day has another past, more sinister than many realize. December 25th was chosen because of its connection with pagan worship, specifically with sun worship, a religion going all the way back to ancient Babylon. In Roman culture there were three observances that contributed to the timing and customs of Christmas. Possibly the greatest and most popular celebration was in honor of the Roman god of agriculture Saturn, hence Saturnalia, at the winter solstice. According to most historians, this festival resembled Mardi gras and New Year’s; it was a time of decadence and con-

fusion. The Standard American Encyclopedia confirms, “…the feast in honor of Saturn, celebrated by the Romans in December and regarded as a time of unrestrained license and merriment for all classes, even for the slaves” (1940, Saturnalia). According to the Encyclopedia Americana, “It [Saturnalia] probably originated as a harvest celebration. Under the Caesars it was celebrated from the 17th to the 23rd of December, during which period public business was closed, masters and slaves changed places, and feasting, giving of gifts, and general license prevailed (1956, Saturnalia). It is no coincidence that the dates of Saturnalia closely correspond to Christmas. This Roman festival was one of the happiest times of the pagan year. It included the giving of gifts, the suspension of work, and easements in cultural norms and ethics. Slaves were given temporary freedom and certain cases of immorality were overlooked. The Counterfeit Messiah

Another belief influencing Christmas was Mithraism. This was a cult in the Roman culture that was reserved for men only and was especially popular among soldiers. According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, “The origin of the cult of Mithra dates from the time that the Hindus and Persians still formed one people, for the god Mithra occurs in the religion and the sacred books Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

of both races, i.e. in the Vedas and in the Avesta. In Vedic hymns he is frequently mentioned and is nearly always coupled with Varuna, but beyond the bare occurrence of his name, little is known of him (Rigveda, III, 59). It is conjectured (Oldenberg, Die Religion des Veda, Berlin, 1894) that Mithra was the rising sun, Varuna the setting sun; or, Mithra, the sky at daytime, Varuna, the sky at night; or, the one the sun, the other the moon. In any case Mithra is a light or solar deity of some sort; but in vedic times the vague and general mention of him seems to indicate that his name was little more than a memory….Mithraism was emphatically a soldier religion: Mithra, its hero, was especially a divinity of fidelity, manliness, and bravery; the stress it laid on good fellowship and brotherliness, its exclusion of women, and the secret bond amongst its members have suggested the idea that Mithraism was Masonry amongst the Roman soldiery” (newadvent.org, Mithraism). As we learn from this reference, not much is known about this cult. It goes back to when the Hindus and Persians formed one people, but how and in what form this deity was worshiped is unknown. As this deity evolved over time and cultures, it found a home in Rome; it especially gained popularity among the Roman military. At this point, Mithra had been reinterpreted as a deity of war and as a result, Mithraism again took root within the Roman culture. The connection between Mithraism and Christmas is described in the book, Mystery Religions in the Ancient World. Mithra was “the creator and orderer of the universe, hence a manifestation of the creative Logos or Word. Seeing mankind afflicted by Ahriman, the cosmic power of darkness, he incarnated on earth. His birth on 25 December was witnessed by shepherds. After many deeds he held a last supper with his disciples and returned to heaven. At the end of the world he will come again to judge resurrected mankind and after the last battle, victorious over evil, he will lead the chosen ones through a river of fire to a blessed immortality,” p. 99. The resemblance between Mithra and the Messiah is striking. Scripture states that the Messiah is the creative Word or Logos, John 1:1-3. We also know that His birth was witnessed by shepherds and that He shared a last supper with His disciples and was afterward murdered and resurrected

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to heaven. The Bible also prophesies of His return, when He will remove evil and conquer all those who oppose Him. Because of these similarities, some scholars believe that Mithraism was a major force in Christianity and a serious threat to the Church. According to Ernest Renan, a French historian and expert in ancient cultures, “…if the growth of Christianity had been arrested by some mortal malady, the world would have been Mithraic…” Mithra was born on December 25. There’s little doubt that the date of Mithra worship played a role in the establishment of December 25th as the Messiah’s birth. Unconquered Sun Worship

A third system that added to the adoption of Christmas was the Feast of Sol Invictus. The Encyclopaedia Britannica states: “During the later periods of Roman history, sun worship gained in importance and ultimately led to what has been called a ‘solar monotheism.’ Nearly all the gods of the period were possessed of Solar qualities, and both Christ and Mithra acquired the traits of solar deities. The feast of Sol Invictus (unconquered Sun) on December 25th was celebrated with great joy, and eventually this date was taken over by the Christians as Christmas, the birthday of Christ” (2000, vol. 11, p. 390). In addition to Saturnalia and Mithraism, we find that there was another celebration called the Feast of Sol Invictus that helped solidify December 25 as the date for the Nativity. The Britannica openly states that the Church adopted this day for Christmas. There should be no doubt that Christmas is an amalgamation of ancient pagan practices later adopted by the Roman church. This ancient celebration was nothing more than sun worship. Rome at this point was considered a “solar monotheism.” The term “solar” refers to the sun, while “monotheism” refers to the worship of one deity. Most ancient religions were polytheistic, meaning that they worshiped many gods. To find a point in history where sun worship was a monotheistic religion is noteworthy. On a side note, vestiges of sun worship can be seen in other areas of the Church. For example, the day that nominal worship has chosen as a day of worship comes from the Latin dies solis, meaning, “day of the sun.” According to historians it was Emperor Constantine who officially changed Sabbath

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worship to Sunday; prior to his conversion this man was a sun worshiper. Authors Anthony F. Buzzard and Charles F. Hunting in their book, The Doctrine of the Trinity, state, “Constantine appears to have been a sun-worshiper, one of a number of late pagan cults which had observances in common with Christians. Worship of such gods was not a novel idea. Every Greek or Roman expected that political success followed from religious piety. Christianity was the religion of Constantine’s father. Although Constantine claimed that he was the thirteenth Apostle, his was no sudden Damascus conversion. Indeed it is highly doubtful that he ever truly abandoned sunworship. After his professed acceptance of Christianity, he built a triumphal arch to the sun god and in Constantinople set up a statue of the same sun god bearing his own features. He was finally deified after his death by official edict in the Empire, as were many Roman rulers.” We also find evidence for the role that sun worship played in Christmas from the New International Dictionary of the Christian Church. “December 25 was the date of the Roman pagan festival inaugurated in 274 as the birthday of the unconquered sun which at the winter solstice begins again to show an increase in light. Sometime before 336 the Church in Rome, unable to stamp out this pagan festival, spiritualized it as the Feast of the Nativity of the Sun of Righteousness,” p. 223. According to this source, December 25th was marked as the birthday of the sun in 274 CE and about 60 years later the Church adopted this day as the birthday of the Messiah due to its inability to stamp out this pagan observance. Instead of staying faithful to the Word, what happened? The Church compromised by adopting this pagan belief and by doing so, changed the faith forever! A Holiday Outlawed by Puritans

Because of its paganism and the fact that Christmas resembled more of Mardi gras during the time of early America, many Christians rejected Christmas. Robert J. Myers in his book Celebrations says, “In England, for example, the Puritans could not tolerate this celebrating for which there was no biblical sanction. Consequently, the Roundhead Parliament of 1643 outlawed the feasts of Christmas, Easter, Whit-suntide, along with the saints’ days,” p. 312.

This author corroborates that the Puritans in 1643 outlawed both Christmas and Easter because they had no biblical sanction. As noted on the History Channel, this refusal included the pilgrims and other early Americans: “In the early 17th century, a wave of religious reform changed the way Christmas was celebrated in Europe. When Oliver Cromwell and his Puritan forces took over England in 1645, they vowed to rid England of decadence and, as part of their effort, cancelled Christmas. By popular demand, Charles II was restored to the throne and, with him, came the return of the popular holiday. The pilgrims, English separatists that came to America in 1620, were even more orthodox in their Puritan beliefs than Cromwell. As a result, Christmas was not a holiday in early America. From 1659 to 1681, the celebration of Christmas was actually outlawed in Boston. Anyone exhibiting the Christmas spirit was fined five shillings” (history.com, Christmas).

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palm tree, but speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good,” verses 1-5. Does this description sound familiar? Take a closer look: (1) one cuts a tree out of the forest; (2) they deck it with silver and gold; (3) they fasten it with nails and with hammers; and (4) they stand it upright. You’re probably thinking, Christmas tree. Truth be told, this is not referring to a Christmas tree, which is nonetheless a form of tree worship. What did Jeremiah say in verse two? He said, “Learn not the way of the heathen.” Does this warning also apply to Christmas? We can answer that by simply asking: Is Christmas found in the Bible or in traditions of pagans? We can safely say this warning includes Christmas. When Yahweh said through Jeremiah, learn not the way of the heathen, He meant any pagan worship, including days like Christmas and Easter.

When Yahweh said learn not the way of the heathen, He meant any pagan worship, including days like Christmas and Easter.

Shockingly, Christmas was not a holiday in early America. What would happen if believers would take such a stand today? Much of today’s error and subsequent problems would be removed and a time of unparalleled truth would result. We need only to ask, is it sanctioned by my Heavenly Father and His Word? Tree Worship and Santa Claus

Christmas is riddled with non-biblical traditions. The evergreen tree has been an object of worship for millennia. Scripture provides many examples of tree worship, but none clearer than Jeremiah 10, “Hear ye the word which Yahweh speaketh unto you, O house of Israel: Thus saith Yahweh, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not. They are upright as the

”

In addition to the biblical record, scholarship also confirms that tree worship was common. For example, The Golden Bough states, “...Tree worship is well attested for all the great European families of the Aryan stock. Amongst the Celts the oak-worship of the Druids is familiar to everyone. Sacred groves were common among the ancient Germans, and treeworship is hardly extinct among their descendants at the present day,” p. 58. In addition to the Christmas tree, we have the tradition of Saint Nick. According to the book, Santa Claus, Last of the Wild Men, the traditional Santa Claus may have roots to Odin, a major deity in Norse mythology: “… children would place their boots filled with sugar, carrots or straw, near the chimney for Odin’s flying horse, Sleipnir, to eat. Odin would then reward those children for their kindness by replacing Sleipnir’s food with gifts or candy. This practice survived in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands after the adoption of Christianity and became associated with Saint Nicholas as a result of the process of Christianization and can be still seen in the modern practice of

the hanging of stockings at the chimney in some homes” (pp. 171-173). While many state that Santa Claus traces back to Saint Nicholas, bishop of Myra, who existed during the 4th century, the truth is very different. The etymological roots of this figure trace back to German and Dutch folklore, none of which is sanctioned by Scripture. The True Birthday of Yahshua

Let’s now transition from the historical roots of Christmas to the scriptural facts about our Savior’s birth. From Scripture we find that He was likely born in the fall. We find evidence in Luke 1:5, “There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.” Zacharias, John the Baptist’s father, served at the temple and his course was of the course of Abia. What’s the significance of this course? Before we answer that, we need to understand these courses a bit better. In the Old Testament, there were 24 courses or service schedules in the temple. The cycle of courses began at Abib (the first biblical month) or in the springtime and was from Sabbath to Sabbath. Each priest was required to serve twice a year. Abia was the eighth course. The course of Abia would have fallen around the beginning of June. Based on this, we can pinpoint that John the Baptist was conceived around early June. Scripture states that Mary conceived Yahshua six months after Elisabeth conceived John the Baptist, Luke 1:26. From this we can determine the approximate date of the Messiah’s conception and birth. If John the Baptist was conceived in early June and if Yahshua was conceived six months later, He was likely conceived in early December, placing His birth somewhere around September, possibly during the Feast of Tabernacles. Frosty Snowmen and ... Shepherds?

What about the shepherds? The traditional Christmas story goes that shepherds received a miraculous message about the infant Yahshua while in the fields on December 25th. The traditional story is based on Luke 2:13-18, “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising Elohim, and saying, Glory to Elohim in the Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

he first of the 24 priestly courses began at the commencement of Abib (late March through early April). The priest would serve a week from Sabbath to Sabbath and would do so twice a year. Of these courses, Abia (Heb. AbiYah) was of the eighth. This would place Abia’s course from late May through early June. Accounting for the six-month difference between John’s and Yahshua’s conceptions and the normal 38-week gestation period, this would place the Messiah’s birth from early through late September. Since no record exists of Yahshua’s birth, providing an exact date is not possible; however, it is reasonable to surmise that His birth may have occurred during the Feast of Tabernacles.

highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass which Yahweh hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.” The question is, were shepherds out tending flocks in December? According to scholars, this is highly doubtful. According to Adam Clarke’s Commentary, “It was a custom among the Jews to send out their sheep to the deserts, about the passover, and bring them home at the commencement of the first rain: during the time they were out, the shepherds watched them night and day. As the passover occurred in the spring, and the first rain began early in the month of Marchesvan, which answers to part of our October and November, we find that the sheep were kept out in the open country during the whole of the summer. And as these shepherds had not yet brought home their flocks, it is a presumptive argument that October had not yet commenced, and that, consequently, our [Master] was not born on the 25th of December, when no flocks were out in the fields; nor could he have been born later than September, as the flocks were still in the fields by night. On this very ground the nativity in December should be given

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up. The feeding of the flocks by night in the fields is a chronological fact, which casts considerable light upon this disputed point.” The Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown Commentary confirms, “From this most critics, since Lightfoot, conclude that the time which, since the fourth century, has been ecclesiastically fixed upon for the celebration of Christ’s birth – the 25th of December, or the midst of the rain seasoncannot be the true time, as the shepherds drove their flocks about the spring or Passover time out to the fields, and remained out with them all summer, under cover of huts or tents, returning with them late in the autumn. But recent travelers tell us that in the end of December, after the rains, the flowers come again into bloom, and the flocks again issue forth. The nature of the seasons in Palestine could hardly have been unknown to those who fixed upon the present Christmas-period: the difficulty, therefore, is perhaps more imaginary than real.” Three Men and a Birthday?

Let’s consider one more piece of the puzzle and that is the wise men. This story is based on the second chapter of Matthew. It reads, “Now when Yahshua was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him…When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Miriam his mother, and fell

down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh,” vv. 1-2, 10-11. Tradition says that three wise men visited the infant Yahshua in the manger to honor His birth. Do we find evidence of that here? First, Scripture says nothing about three wise men, only three gifts given. Second, they did not visit the infant Messiah at the manager, but the boy Messiah at His house, verse 11. And third, the wise men were not there to celebrate the birth of the Messiah, but to worship the King of the Jews, verse 2. Other than the wise men visiting the Messiah, the traditional account is almost completely lacking from Scripture. Again, there is no mention of how many wise men, there is no mention of a manger, and there is no mention of the Messiah’s birth. We find from verse 16 that Yahshua was somewhere around the age of two. It reads, “Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men.” Scripture verifies here that Herod murdered all male children two years and under. Why did he start with the age of two? It’s likely that Yahshua was near this age when the wise men came to visit. Again we find that the traditional story of the Messiah’s birth has little basis in Scripture. The story of Christmas is not found in the Bible, but it was through pagan Roman tradition that the Church adopted the rituals of Christmas. Come Out, Be Separate, Don’t Touch

What does our Father Yahweh say about such compromise? As we read in Jeremiah 10, we’re commanded to abstain from learning the ways of the heathen. Paul in 2 Corinthians 6:14 also warns about compromise and accepting false worship, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Messiah with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of Elohim with idols? for ye are the temple of the living Elohim; as Elohim hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be

their Elohim, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith Yahweh, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith Yahweh Almighty.” Paul asks here a series of key questions: ∙ What fellowship has righteousness with unrighteousness?

∙ What communion has light with darkness? ∙ What concord has Messiah with Belial? ∙ What part has a believer with an infidel? ∙ What agreement does the temple of Elohim have with idols? I n each question Paul shows the distinction between right and wrong; and between worship that is honoring and worship that is not. Based on the facts that Christmas

contains no scriptural foundation and was borrowed from pagan worship, it is clearly to be avoided by anyone who wants to honor the true Messiah. As believers, we must worship in spirit and truth. This means that we must avoid any and all observances and worship that are foreign to Yahweh’s Word. For those who do and are faithful to this calling, Scripture promises that they will be called the sons and daughters of His.

‘Happy’ Hanukkah?

trace to the ancient day of sun worship at the winter solstice, and to the related feasts of the Greek god Dionysius. Historical sources differ in the details of Hanukkah. Various traditions (baraita) in the Jewish oral law, which were not

with the fire that descended from heaven to the altar not only in the time of Moses, Nehemiah, and Solomon’s Temple, but also in the days of Judah Maccabee (1:18-36; 2:8-12, 14) (Judaica, p. 1283). As with most extrabiblical observances, the Talmudic tradition of Hanukkah comes with a checkered past. The Judaica notes, “Certain critics conjectured that the origin of Hanukkah was either a festival of the Hellenized Jews or even an idolatrous festival that had occurred on the 25th of Kislev. Antiochus had, therefore, chosen the day to commence the idolatrous worship in the Temple” (ibid.). The parallels with the Christmas celebration are obvious. The Hanukkah bush smacks of the Christmas tree, the greeting cards, gift exchanging, bulbs and lights strung at this time also are clearly a replication of Christmas customs. Some contend that Yahshua was keeping Hanukkah in John 10:22. The passage says it was during the feast of the dedication when Yahshua is seen walking on Solomon’s porch at the Temple. It does not say He went into the Temple and was sitting in on a Hanukkah service. He typically went wherever crowds gathered. He discussed Scripture with some Jews there who then wanted to stone Him. Hanukkah celebrates the rededication of a temple that no longer exists. Being that Hanukkah is a man-made tradition with problematic customs with no biblical affirmation, should we not focus energy on Feasts that are repeatedly commanded by Yahweh, kept by Yahshua and the apostles, and will be part of the constitutional law governing in the Kingdom coming to earth? Yahweh’s seven annual Feasts are part of the covenant He makes with believers today. These are the observances that have biblical authority. The true worshiper must make them a part of his life now.

Any biblical authority for this holiday is nonexistent. by Alan Mansager

hristmas is not the only popular observance falling in December. The Feast of Dedication, or Hanukkah, is an eight-day nationalistic observance of the Jews that begins on the 25th of Kislev (December). It celebrates the rededication of Solomon’s temple that had been desecrated by Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, in 165 BCE. Tradition says the observance was instituted by Judah Maccabee and his followers. Hanukkah and its main features are found in the apocryphal books of first and second Maccabees. The eight days were celebrated with gladness like the Feast of Tabernacles. It is even referred to as Tabernacles (2Maccabees 1:9) or Tabernacles and Fire (1:18) (Encyclopaedia Judaica, Hanukkah, p. 1283). The Judaica surmises that Tabernacles was not celebrated at the proper time because the Temple had not been cleansed, and therefore “a second Tabernacles (analogous to the Second Passover) was held.” Unlike Yahweh’s appointed Feast days, Hanukkah with its Christmas-like customs was a work in progress. Its rites evolved over time. The 25th date corresponds to the third anniversary of the proclamation of the edict of Antiochus to offer idolatrous sacrifices on the Temple altar. This date and month

incorporated in the Mishnah, provide differing legends. The most prominent tradition details the rededication of the Temple when a single cruse of oil, enough to light the Temple candelabrum for a day, miraculously provided light for eight days – thus making Hanukkah an eight-day celebration called “Lights.” The historian and priest Josephus, who made no mention of “Hanukkah,” paired the name Lights

Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

Hollow Days or

Hallowed Days? by Alan Mansager

ave you ever wondered why holiday celebrations are such a key part of life? Billions of dollars and endless hours are spent every year on holidays like Halloween and Christmas. What exactly drives the masses to invest so much in holidays? ∙ Is it the food, family and fun in celebrating? ∙ Is it that they can’t break free of the momentum generated by habit? ∙ Or is it a cultural custom so pervasive that most involuntarily fall into holidays without giving them a second thought? It’s all of the above, of course. And like clockwork, as soon as one celebration is over, the world is busy planning the next one in a frenetic, endless cycle. Few ever stop to seriously question why they keep holidays. The merchants, of course, love it that way. They don’t care why a holiday is observed so long as they can keep pulling in mammoth profits, making mechandisers and retailers the prime promoters of holidays today. Halloween grosses $7 billion each year, making it number two after Christmas on the holiday hit parade. Although lacking in scriptural authority, the very reason for today’s celebrations is rooted in ancient commands in the Bible to keep annual observances. In its pages Almighty Yahweh directed seven annual Feast days to be kept. They are: Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Pentecost,

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Trumpets, Atonement, Tabernacles and Last Great Day. Ignoring Yahweh’s command for his days, each culture capitalized on the idea of annual observances and created and tailored their own. There are no other annual holidays commanded in the Bible other than those specific seven. Christmas is missing, and so is Easter. The wise men never bowed to the infant in the manger, and then turned to give each other gifts. And nowhere did the Apostles go out with baskets on a Sunday morning to hunt for colored eggs. Yahweh thundered in Leviticus 23:2: “Concerning the feasts of Yahweh, which ye shall proclaim to be holy convocations, even these are MY feasts.” There is nothing here about Feasts of Israel. He says they are His observances. The Bible’s holidays are a key part of true worship. Yet many believe that the seven yearly observances commanded in Scripture are Jewish, and that they themselves have no obligation to keep them. But there is good evidence that these days were in force even at creation, long before the Jews existed. Yahweh’s Holy Days in Genesis

When it comes to Almighty Yahweh’s Feast days, traditional belief makes two major mistakes. First, most assume that the yearly holidays in the Bible are only for ancient peoples, and second, that these annual holy times are part of a ritualistic law that was abolished with the death of the Savior. The Feast days are not only the original “holidays” (i.e., holy-days = holi-days), but

these special biblical observances are also a part of an ongoing, living law that Yahweh gave to all people. They are not just for a certain ethnic or religious group but are special days for the entire world to keep. Your Creator demands them as part of His exclusive worship. The tragedy is that these sacred times have been ignored and replaced with secular holidays, which even churches have embraced. To replace worship commanded in the Scriptures with substitutes of any kind, regardless of the religious veneer, is nothing short of idolatry. Some contend that the Feasts are just part of old and dead Mosaic ordinances. On the contrary, biblical evidence shows that the very first family, Adam and Eve’s sons, were keeping these special observances instituted by Yahweh all the way back at the beginning, long before Moses. In Genesis 4 we read of the birth of Cain and Abel. Note how verse 3 is worded. “And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto Yahweh. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof.” The phrase, “in the process of time” in Hebrew means, “at the end of days,” or at the end of a counting period, which was a special observance when a special offering was commanded. This can only point to an established Feast. Abel brought the right kind of offering, Cain did not. More evidence shows that the Feasts were in effect before the Law was codified on Mt. Sinai.

Psalm 104:19 tells us that Yahweh appointed the moon for seasons. The word “seasons” means “fixed times or festivals.” The same word is used in Genesis 1:14, where the sun and moon are created for “seasons,” or moedim in the Hebrew. These celestial bodies or planets establish Yahweh’s appointed times. Amazingly, Yahweh in His wisdom built a biblical Feast calendar into His heavenly creation! That is how important His Feasts are. You can choose to ignore them, but there they are, revealed nightly in Yahweh’s calendar in the sky. Laws Long Before Sinai

“When they have a matter, they come unto me; and I judge between one and another, and I do make them know the statutes of Elohim, and his laws.” The many biblical commands to keep annual Feast days as special, appointed times, were intended for all who would come into the promise. But because most chose to ignore them, Yahweh zeroed in on a select group known as Israelites, to make a covenant agreement with them to keep these times, and in return to be blessed above all people on earth.

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The very sun and moon above our heads attest to the Bible’s Feasts at each season as they establish the times by their movements in the sky. These heavenly bodies are mute testimony to a schedule of holidays or holy days that we cannot change. How more permanent and unmovable can Yahweh’s Feasts be when the planets and stars are witness to them? The Feasts are so important that Yahweh also made key biblical events to occur on them – from the exodus to the entering of the Promised Land at the Passover time, and to the giving of the law, including the covenant, and the sending of the Holy Spirit – all at Pentecost. Another biblical observance, the Feast of Trumpets, will likely play a big part in the return of Yahshua the Messiah at the blast of the trumpet. Other major events in the Bible occurred at the time of these annual celebrations of Scripture. That’s how significant they are! We see additional proof that Yahweh’s laws, which include the Feasts, were in effect before Sinai when Moses and Aaron approached Pharaoh and asked for release of Israel to keep a Feast. This is found in Exodus 3:18; 5:1; 8:25; and 10:9. In Exodus 16:4 Yahweh talks about testing Israel over whether they will obey His laws: “Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you; and the people shall go out and gather a certain rate every day, that I may prove them, whether they will walk in my law, or no.” Yahweh’s laws were not written and presented on tablets of stone until the 20th chapter of Exodus when Moses scaled Mt. Sinai. That means that the Law was already in effect before Israel gathered at the mountain. In Exodus 18:16, we find Moses using the Law before Sinai to adjudicate disputes while serving as a judge for Israel.

We must be careful not to throw the baby out with the bathwater and say the entire law is abolished when those changes applied only to certain added aspects dealing with ritual. The Bible’s Laws are the code that Yahweh and His Son Yahshua live by. If the whole law were abolished, then we no longer can know what sin is and by what standard we should live. It is because of the Law that we understand sin. Paul in Romans 3:20 says, “For by the law is the knowledge of sin.” More to the

The Feasts are so important that Yahweh caused key biblical events to occur on them.

When the northern 10 tribes of Israel were scattered they migrated to many nations, and no doubt ended up in western nations as well. This means that today, in many countries of the world, live the offspring of Israel, those who were specifically given the laws of Yahweh, including the feasts of the Bible. Recall that He commanded the Feasts for all generations. Just that fact alone tells us we should be seeing many observing the Feasts today. These days are in fact decreed for ALL who will take hold of the same promise given to Israel. And you don’t need to be a physical Israelite to obey Yahweh, either. Paul asks and answers who Israelites are today: “Who are Israelites, to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of Elohim, and the promises,’’Romans 9:4. Anyone who seeks the promise of salvation and becomes part of the family of the Most High Elohim is considered an Israelite. Because the Bible’s laws and Feasts were commanded for Israel, they are for every Truth Seeker today. Many Kinds of Laws

Most have been taught that the Feasts are part of the law that was abolished by Yahshua’s death, and therefore are no longer in effect. But it was only the ceremonial/ ritual law that was changed by Yahshua’s death, as we find in Hebrews 9:10 and Isaiah 1. Only the priesthood and the method of administration has changed. The rest of Yahweh’s commands stand.

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point, sin does not exist without law. He also wrote in Romans 4:15: “For where no law is, there is no transgression.” If there is no speed limit you can’t be charged with speeding. If there is no biblical law in effect, you can’t be a sinner. But because everyone is a sinner the law stands, Romans 3:23 and 5:12. The Scriptures teach five kinds of law: ∙ Spiritual/moral law, like the 10 commandments ∙ Commercial/civil law, governing business and interpersonal relationships ∙ Ceremonial/ritual law, governing priestly activities and worship ∙ Natural law, the laws of nature ∙ Judicial law, dealing with crime and punishment The annual Feasts fall under moral, spiritual, and ritual law. Those laws shape character and lead to everlasting life. They are part of the 10 commandments and other character-shaping laws. When we keep Yahweh’s Feasts we draw closer to Yahweh and understand His plan for His people better. That in turn has a direct impact on us, strengthening our faith and leading to a closer walk. Yahweh chose the people of Israel because of His covenant with their forefather Abraham. He did not single out any others for selection. Others who have a desire for salvation can be grafted into that same relationship and receive the promises. And that includes Feast observance as well as the other laws. But didn’t the Savior fulfill and eliminate the need to obey? It’s a common question. Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

All Will Soon Submit to the Father

First John 2:5-7 is a key passage speaking of the Messiah Yahshua. “But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of Elohim perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which you had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which you have heard from the beginning.” John makes two key points here. First, if we say we love and follow Yahshua the Messiah then we must walk as He did. We must pattern our lives after His, and that means keeping the same observances and commands that He did. John says to follow the commandments you heard “from the beginning.” These points are combined in v. 24, where John says to continue in the Son and in the Father. This means that to obey one is like obeying the other. The Son Yahshua did not come to change the faith that His Father Yahweh commanded in the Old Testament. In fact, He obeyed His Father Yahweh’s laws, including Feast days. He said in John 14:31, “But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do.” He taught His disciples and those in Galilee from the Old Testament, the only Bible in existence at the time. As we have seen, the moedim or fixed observances known as Feasts were in operation at the beginning of creation – with our first family. They extend beyond Israel

Personal Testimonial

to all peoples. Yahshua Set the Example

We are instructed simply to walk as Yahshua walked. This contradicts the belief that Yahshua was sent to get rid of His Father Yahweh’s laws by fulfilling them, and therefore obliterating them after His death. We are told specifically and plainly to “walk as He walked.” This begs the question, how did Yahshua the Messiah walk? Was He obedient to His Father or was He law-less? Did He set an example for us by His obedient walk? Were the Feasts part of His walk? Absolutely! Let’s look at a few examples: In Luke 2:42 we read that as a child He went with His parents to keep Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. As an adult, in Matthew 26:18 and Luke 22:11 we find Yahshua observing Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. He instructed His disciples to stay in Jerusalem in Acts 1:4 to wait for the giving of the Spirit at the approaching Feast of Weeks (Pentecost). In John 7:10 we read that He went up to keep the Feast of Tabernacles, and during this Feast He taught the people, verse 14. Again, on the Feast called the Great Day in John 7:37, Yahshua stood up in the synagogue and referred to living waters or the Holy Spirit to come. Now if Yahshua the Messiah is teaching from the Old Testament, which includes Yahweh’s laws and Feasts, and we read in John to walk as He walked, also keeping the Feasts, then it is clear. We must follow all the Bible, including the observances taught and practiced in both testaments.

Yahweh mandates in Exodus 12:14 to keep the Feast “forever.” He is talking to the only nation He ever made a covenant with – Israel. Walk as Yahshua walked. Follow the commandment you heard from the beginning, the Bible says. Center your faith on the same Scriptures Yahshua and the Apostles did – the Old Testament. There was no other testament at that time. Feast Days in the Coming Kingdom

We learn that even after the Savior’s death and resurrection the Apostles and disciples continued keeping Yahweh’s Feasts. You would think that these Apostles, taught by the living Savior daily for over three years, would have been informed that now in the New Testament they could stop keeping the Feasts and weekly seventh-day Sabbath. And there is no sense in doing so anyway because the Savior would shortly abolish the law at His death, so why obey for only a few more years? On the contrary. There was no New Testament at that time and the Messiah kept these days with His disciples. He showed them how to keep the Passover with new meaning, He told them to wait in Jerusalem until Pentecost when they would receive the Holy Spirit on that sacred Feast. We need to look at one more key teaching regarding the Feasts. The Feasts represent a plan for man from the beginning, as we saw in Genesis. The plan involves His people today and extends into the Kingdom. When Yahweh says these are ordinances “forever,” that is what He means. No fewer than four times in Leviticus 23 Yahweh

few or none in most local towns and cities who follow Yahweh’s commands so you have to make the best of it. It’s ‘Prayers Answered Big Time’ at Feast still very important to get connected with those in the Truth “My wife and I quit going to the Christian church back and we urge you to do the same. Make a point to go to the in early 2010 when we had a greater hunger and thirst for Feast of Tabernacles and the spring feast such as Passover the unadulterated truth of Yahweh’s Word. We learned and Unleavened Bread. Since we went to the Feast of more and grew more spiritually in such a short time after Tabernacles our spiritual lives have been changed forever we left than we ever did in our entire so-called “Christian” and the assembly at YRM are all awesomely genuine and lives. The truth is all there in plain sight if one really wants very friendly. We were baptized into Yahshua’s name and to read the scripture for what it says and not just pieces and had hands laid upon us to receive the Holy Spirt of Yahweh. parts to justify your method of worship instead of Yahweh’s If you want to be born again, Yahshua said in John 3 you commanded ways to worship. We made a conscience effort first have to be born of water which is an important first step with prayer, faith, and action in order to worship Yahweh the in your salvation. We had many obstacles to overcome in way He has commanded us to. Not only did we observe and order that Yahweh would provide a way for us to come, but practice the seventh-day weekly Sabbath through YRM’s He answered our prayers big time. So, we urge you to make website and DVD sermons, but we knew we had to observe that important step and would like to see you at the next and practice Yahweh’s holy feast days. There are so very Feast.” – D. and R. F., New York

Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

declares the Feasts a statute “forever.” Does forever end where the New Testment begins or, until His Kingdom comes? Absolutely not. Forever means the Feasts are endless statutes. They have no termination point. Learn by Doing Yahshua the Messiah promised to keep the Passover again with His disciples in the Kingdom, Matthew 26:29. Isaiah 66 speaks of the Millennial Kingdom to be established on this earth. We learn that when Yahshua sets up His Kingdom rule on this earth that everyone will come to keep Yahweh’s appointed times. “And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith Yahweh,” Isaiah 66:23. And if they refuse? Turn to Zechariah 14:16. “And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the King, Yahweh of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles. And it shall be, that whoso will not come up of all the families of the earth unto Jerusalem to worship the King, Yahweh of hosts, even upon them shall be no rain.”

Do you desire to be in His Kingdom? What about being blessed right now? Then follow His Word. Keep His laws. Attend His Feasts. Learn about Him by doing so. Mold your life into the pattern Yahshua set for us. Forget what the world does. There is no salvation offered by the world. Make your life count by obeying Yahweh. Please Him and not man. If you can find Yahweh promising blessings by keeping the holidays of the world, then by all means go for them. If not, why else would you want to keep frivolous days void of salvational promise? A fundamental purpose of Yahweh’s Feasts is to instruct. We see this is the case in the kingdom in Ezekiel 44:23-24 when the Feasts are observed at that time. We learn important spiritual lessons by physical actions. Learning by doing. Hands-on education. That is why Yahweh expects our participation in His Feasts, being there and observing them with others. Animal sacrifices are past. But that doesn’t mean the principle of sacrifice is dead and buried. We sacrifice of ourselves when we attend the annual Feasts. We sacrifice of our time and resources to attend. We give

up the world for as much as a week to be instructed by Yahweh’s Word. It is a sacrifice pleasing to Yahweh. Keeping only part of a Feast is like giving half a lamb on the altar of sacrifice. It’s like working half the Sabbath day. The command is to keep His entire Feast, not just part of it. As we see our culture in a moral and spiritual tailspin, we know that Yahshua’s return is imminent. What will be your response to Him when He asks, where were you when I looked for you at my Feast days? I gave these days to my people, I took the lead in observing them as an example for you to follow, He could say. But you thought they were for another time and people. I wanted to give you a position in my Kingdom, so with your experience you could teach others to obey me. You were also to be an example to them. But how can I use you as a teaching model for others when you didn’t obey yourself? May that scene not be a part of your future. May you and yours say as Paul, I must by all means keep this Feast. No matter what, I will be faithful because I want the blessings of eternal life.

You CAN Afford the Feasts! by the late Donald R. Mansager

ahweh’s annual Feast days are one of the greatest blessings He bestows on His people. Unless you have kept them in the place where He puts His Name, you can’t imagine what a joy they truly are, a veritable Kingdom on earth! A common question posed by those to whom Yahweh has newly revealed the importance of His annual Feast days is, “How can I afford to attend?” A subsequent question is, “When and where are these Festivals held?” Yahweh’s Restoration Ministry publishes a calendar each year showing the dates of each of the seven annual Feast days. Our calendar is based upon Yahweh’s lunar

months. We go by the monthly new moons because Yahweh placed them in the sky for this purpose, Isaiah 66:23 and Numbers 28:11. The Feasts are grouped according to the harvest seasons, beginning with Abib (meaning green ears), which comes in the spring at the time of the barley harvest (Ex. 9:31). Next begins the harvest of wheat in early summer (Pentecost or Feast of Weeks), followed by the harvest of oil, grapes and garden stuffs in the fall (Tabernacles). Yahweh’s Feasts are prophetic (Col. 2:16-17). He works everything out according to His timetable: “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under

the heaven” (Eccl. 3:1). Yahweh’s purpose was established at creation when He made the lights in the heavens: “And Elohim said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons [Hebrew = moed], and for days, and years” (Gen. 1: 14). The Hebrew word moed means an “appointed time.” His Feasts are special times that Yahweh has set aside and that He will use to accomplish His will. The seven annual Feasts are His moedim or appointed times when He meets with His people.

please turn to p. 16 Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

Rethinking Your

by Randy Folliard

aradigm comes from the Greek paradeigma, meaning, “a model or pattern.” This word is used to describe the way we view the world around us, including our deeply-held assumptions and beliefs. For example, almost every ancient culture believed that the earth was flat. This was their paradigm as to how they viewed the world. It wasn’t until the seventeenth century that this pattern was radically altered. This is just one example of rethinking our paradigm. The reality is we all live within our own paradigm, including how we view the Scriptures, which is shaped through our own unique experiences. Consider some of the beliefs that we have had to reevaluate. For instance, if you are a Sabbath keeper, you probably had to reconsider Sunday worship. Abraham’s Departure

In Genesis 12:1-4 we find that Abram or Abraham had to reevaluate his own life by forsaking all that he knew. “Now Yahweh had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation,

Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

Paradigm

and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. So Abram departed, as Yahweh had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran.” Consider the change that this must have been for Abraham. He was told to leave his family, his country, and to go to a place that Yahweh would show him. Everyone he knew and everything he understood was being removed from his life. Why do you suppose Yahweh removed Abraham from his family and country? He had to readjust his paradigm, his view and understanding of Truth. Ur of the Chaldees, where Abraham was raised, was the capital of Chaldea and was known for its idolatry. It was here that the people worshiped the moon goddess, Urki. So not only was Abraham leaving his family, but he was also leaving the false worship of his forefathers behind. One common reason why many never change their beliefs is because they choose to follow in the same pattern as their family before them. As Abraham was forced to leave his

old ideas and beliefs behind, so we must be willing to do the same. We should not be afraid to consider new ideas if they are supported by Scripture. In the case of Abraham, we find that he literally left all that he had and all that he knew to follow His Heavenly Father. Are we willing to do what Abraham did? Are you willing to forsake your own wants for the truth of Scripture? What happened to Abraham? He was blessed beyond measure. He had a son named Isaac, who had a son named Jacob, who had a son named Judah, who eventually led to the Savior of the world. So the Messiah came through the genealogy of Abraham. Understand that before any of this could happen, Abraham had to rethink his paradigm. He had to step out in faith and follow the truth of his Father in heaven. Moses’ Rejection of Egypt

Another man who had to readjust his way of thinking was Moses. In the eleventh chapter of Hebrews we find there the devotion of this man: “By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of Elohim,

than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Messiah greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured as seeing him who is invisible,” verses 2427. Once Moses was of age, he chose to forsake the pleasures of Egypt, regardless of the consequences that lay ahead. Consider the challenge that this involved. Before his rebellion, he was the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; he had all the riches and possibilities of Egypt before him. If he would have simply stayed the course, he would have enjoyed a life that most men could only dream of. But what did he do? He gave it all up, the riches, the honor, and the prestige of Egypt. The Egyptians were polytheistic, meaning that they worshiped many false mighty ones; understand that from a small baby this was Moses’ model. He forsook everything to follow in the will of his Father in Heaven. Are we willing to do the same? Are we prepared to give up some of our current beliefs if they are proved untrue? As believers we’re commanded to prove all things and hold fast to that which is good. Peter’s Vision of the Unclean

Another example of a man who went through a paradigm shift was the Apostle Peter. This man struggled with a form of racism regarding the acceptance of other nations to the truth. In Acts 10:9-16, Peter received a vision that would later diametrically change his view. “On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour: And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Master; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What Elohim hath cleansed, that call not thou common. This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.”

Notice Peter’s initial response to the command to rise, kill and eat. He said, “Not so, Master; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.” He confirms here that he had not forsaken Yahweh’s commandments regarding the clean food laws. On a side note, many believe that this passage proves that we can now disregard those old commandments that regulated diet. We’re going to see why this isn’t the case; but for now notice again that he refused to eat unclean meats. The other fact to consider here is that this account occurred ten years after the Messiah’s resurrection. Peter was still observing the Old Testament commandments ten years after Yahshua’s ascension. So what was the meaning or purpose behind this vision? Verse 28 states, “And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but Elohim hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.” Peter himself tells us that he was shown not to call any man common or unclean. Historically, the Jews viewed people of different ethnic origins as unclean; even referring to them as dogs. Peter here received a new vision, which would shake the core of the early assembly. Until this point, the disciples focused on those of Israel, but now Yahweh was opening the door of salvation to all nations.

Peter confirms this message in verse 35: “But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.” Peter verifies that all those who follow in the Word are acceptable to Yahweh. This was again a pivotal point within the New Testament assembly. In the beginning Yahshua instructed His disciples to go only to the lost sheep of Israel (Matt. 10:5-6). As Paul states in Romans 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the good news of Messiah: for it is the power of Elohim unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” While salvation was first promised to Israel, it was later offered to the Greek or gentile believer. Paul’s Dynamic Conversion

Another man who had a major paradigm shift was the Apostle Paul. He was raised a devout Jew and was one of the most wellknown persecutors of the early assembly. This former abuser of the faithful became one of Yahshua’s greatest champions, but not without some persuasion. In the ninth chapter of Acts we find Paul’s point of conversion: “And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Master? And the Master said, I am Yahshua whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And

Help Our Video Crew Get to Israel!

ahweh’s Restoration Ministry is planning a 10-day trip to Israel this coming spring for the Discover the Truth film crew. The main purpose is to do on-site filming for the Discover the Truth television program and collect photos and footage for our publications and DTT program. To add weight and substance to our Hebraic Roots teachings we need to film in the Hebraic land where the Old and New Testaments

were written. Learning firsthand about the country where prophets roamed and Yahshua ministered will add scope and depth to our presentations. The estimated cost is $10,000. For those who would like to support this venture, please find enclosed a donation card entitled, “Donation for Israel Trip.” You can also donate online at donate.yrm.org (please indicate that your donation is for the Israel trip). Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

he trembling and astonished said, Master, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Master said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink,” verses 3-9. Talk about a wakeup call; as Paul and his companions were traveling to Damascus, Paul fell to the earth from a blinding light. He then heard a voice from heaven asking why he was persecuting the Master Yahshua. What was his response? He asked Yahshua what He would have him to do. Paul, one of the staunchest suppressors of the early assembly, is asking the One he’s been persecuting what he should do. This was a dynamic conversion for the Apostle Paul. The former persecutor of the faith had now become one of its greatest champions. Through his efforts, we know that many would hear and be saved through the shed blood of Yahshua the Messiah. In his “autobiography” we find him reflecting upon this change: “Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; Concerning zeal, persecuting the assembly; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Messiah. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Messiah Yahshua my Master: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Messiah, And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Messiah, the righteousness which is of Yahweh by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead,” Philippians 3:5-11. Paul counted everything as a welcome loss for the Messiah. When he was converted on that road to Damascus he understood the balance between obedience and salvation. He understood that without Messiah and His blood, his works of righteousness were all

for naught. Paul was a Pharisee and before his conversion everything was about how well he obeyed the written and added law. He would soon realize that we have all sinned, that we have all fallen short, and that we are all guilty of death, and as a result, redemption is only through Yahshua the Messiah.

these passages by Paul should give us reason to pause and reconsider our beliefs. As believers, Scripture says that we cannot please our Father in Heaven if we ignore and disobey His commandments, 1John 5:3. This is a fundamental truth that we find in the Old and New testaments and also in the coming Kingdom.

Obedience – Obsolete or Relevant?

The Meaning of Grace

As believers, what must we reconsider? In the remaining of this article, we’re going to focus on some of the most common misunderstandings in the Word. The first one involves the Old Testament Law. Many see the commandments of the Old Testament as something archaic and irrelevant. The question though is: Does Scripture support this view?

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Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

Another misunderstood truth is the reason or purpose for grace. Many assume that grace removes all need for obedience. Is this true? Paul says this in Romans 6:15-16: “What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? Certainly not. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye

Every person will be judged by their own deeds or works. As one minister recently put it, this isn’t works-righteousness, but works-worthiness.

Paul in Romans 7:12 says this about the commandments, “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” Does this sound like a man who opposes the commandments? How could the commandments be irrelevant, if they are holy, just, and good? As we find here, this is a complete contradiction of Scripture. Contrary to what many believe, Paul was not against the Old Testament commandments. He supported them for the purpose they served, and that purpose was to provide a moral compass that we can follow. For many this truth will require a change in paradigm. Paul provides yet another quite clear example in 1Corinthians 7:19, where he writes, “Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of Yahweh.” What’s important, circumcision or uncircumcision? Paul here says neither. What’s important is the keeping of Yahweh’s commandments. Does this sound like a man who opposes or is in conflict with the commandments? Absolutely not! We find a man here who upholds and sees the benefit in obeying Yahweh’s Law. If we believe that the commandments are no longer necessary,

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are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” Paul asks whether sin is permissible under grace. What was his own response? “Certainly not!” So what does it mean by not being under law, but grace? This is referring to salvation or redemption from sin. We know that salvation is not earned through obeying the Law, but received through grace, i.e., Yahweh’s favor. Paul confirms this in verse 23. He says, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of Elohim is eternal life through Yahshua Messiah our Master.” A gift is something we do not earn; in this case salvation is based on the grace or goodness of our Father in Heaven. Salvation is not of works, but by grace; however, the Bible confirms that we must still obey. You might be asking, Why? Verse 16 says again, “Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” Many have a false misconception that they are servants to no one. This conclusion is simply wrong. Whether we know it or not, we all serve something. We either serve sin, which leads to death, or righteousness,

which leads to eternal life. Jude 4 states that some would turn Yahweh’s grace into sin. It reads, “For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, wicked men, turning the grace of our Elohim into lasciviousness, and denying the only Sovereign Yahweh, and our Master Yahshua Messiah.” Jude confirms here that some would be guilty of turning Yahweh’s grace into lasciviousness. Lasciviousness comes from the Greek aselgeia. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon defines it as, “unbridled lust, excess, lasciviousness, wantonness, outrageousness, shamelessness, and insolence.” In many ways this notion that grace removes the need to obey has led to many of these sins. Consider how ministers today will say that there’s no need to obey and that the Old Testament commandments are now obsolete. Does this rationale also include commandments against murder, adultery, and showing love to your neighbor? What’s the purpose for Yahweh’s commandments? They were given as a moral compass; as a guide defining right and wrong. What happens when we remove that compass? We remove our only absolute guide and standard for morality. The belief that grace removes the need to obey is simply not true. Even with grace, as we found in Romans, we must still obey the commandments.

to bring us to repentance. Understand that if we continue willfully living in sin after we have been justified, we are guilty of showing disrespect to the goodness or grace of our Father in heaven. You see, Yahweh’s grace and justification are for one purpose – repentance. As believers we must repent of our sins and then live a life that is pleasing to Him. It’s important that we understand that this is not earning our salvation, but doing the will of our Father in Heaven through living a sanctified life. Works Have a Purpose

The last paradigm shift to consider is what Scripture says about works. In the second chapter of Romans, Paul states that we’re

Beyond Justification

Another truth that may require a change in paradigm is the impact of justification. Many believe that once we’ve been justified through the blood of Yahshua the Messiah there’s nothing else to do. Is this true? In Romans 2:4 Paul explains that even after we are justified that we must live a life worthy of our Father in Heaven: “Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of Elohim leadeth thee to repentance?” What does Paul say here about Yahweh’s grace? He says that His goodness or grace is

judged based on how we live: “Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first,

and also of the Gentile,” verses 6-9. Every person will be judged by their own deeds or works. Again, many people have this concept that once they’ve been justified there’s nothing more for them to do. Matter of fact, those who believe otherwise are often called legalists and are accused of following “works-righteousness.” As one minister recently put it, this isn’t worksrighteousness, but works-worthiness. The fact is we will never show ourselves righteous through our own works, but we do show ourselves worthy. Being righteous would require that we obey the commandments without blemish. Worthiness simply implies that we strive to do the will of our Father in Heaven. Since we are all sinners, we’re incapable of meeting the first, but we can all strive for the second. Revelation 20:13 speaks of the Great White Throne Judgment, also called the second death or the second resurrection. It reads, “And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and the grave delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.” In the second resurrection man will be judged by his works. The concept of doing nothing for salvation simply does not square with Yahweh’s Word. Many will level a charge of doing “works-righteousness” against believers who are simply striving to please the One they worship. The fact is, works are how Yahshua the Messiah will judge mankind. When Yahshua resurrects all of mankind, He will judge them based on how they lived. For some this may require a change in paradigm. While changing is not easy, consider the consequences if we ignore the truth. As believers we’re called to live in holiness and to obey the One we worship. This can only be done if we are willing to think outside the box. We should never be closed minded, but willing to consider all the evidence, because only then will we find ourselves in a position to gain new insight and truth. Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

You CAN Afford the Feasts! (continued from p. 11)

Most understand and religiously keep medical appointments with a doctor. Yahweh’s Feast days are appointments that His people keep with Yahweh. All of the Feasts are listed in Leviticus 23, with special emphasis placed on some. The fact that these Feast days will be kept in the Kingdom (Ezek. 45:21-25) shows that they are of special importance now. We cannot ignore them and still be His people. World Neglects the Sign and Seal

The two most ignored commands in the Bible are the sign He has given us and the seal by which we are preserved. The sign is keeping His Sabbaths: “Moreover also I gave them my sabbaths, to be a sign between me and them, that they might know that I [am] Yahweh that sanctify them” (Ezek. 20:12). “And hallow my sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between me and you, that you may know that I [am] Yahweh your Elohim” (Ezek. 20:20). By keeping His Sabbaths Yahweh will sanctify or set His people apart for a holy purpose. The Sabbaths are a special time in which we learn to know Him and we draw closer to Him. The world in general irresponsibly ignores these days, believing that they are free from all such obligations and responsibilities in the Bible. The seal is His Name: His people are sealed with His Name upon baptism (Rev. 14:1) and then carry His Name. They are known as “His wife” (Rev. 19:7), and have prepared or made themselves ready. The

sealing agent is the Holy Spirit: “And grieve not the holy Spirit of Elohim, whereby you are sealed unto the day of redemption” (Eph. 4:30). The seven annual Feasts are not optional. They are commanded convocations. They show that we are truly His people when we keep them. His Feast days also set us apart, sanctifying us, as they did Israel. Financing the Feasts

In His command Yahweh was very complete, making provisions for the financing of our trips to His gatherings without having them become a great burden. After all, His Feasts should be a delight, the highlights of the year. Just as we are expected to tithe to Yahweh so that His plan of salvation can be proclaimed around the world (Matt. 23:23), He also shows us that we are to set aside funds to keep the Feasts. Notice: “Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before Yahweh your Elohim, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear Yahweh your Elohim always... and shalt go unto the place which Yahweh thy Elohim shall choose,” which He does through His ministers (Deut. 14:22-23, 25). This second tithe is a special tithe to use for the Feasts. It is to be kept and managed by the individual for funds to attend the Feasts. It is separate from the tithe to proclaim the evangel to the world, which is holy unto Yahweh and to be used for that purpose. Instead of setting aside cash as the world does in a “vacation fund” or some “Xmas savings plan,” Yahweh long ago gave us this guide as assurance that we could always attend His Festivals.

The majority of Yahweh’s people plan their vacations and time off to coincide with the Feast days. What better way to spend a vacation than to gather with others of like faith and clearly identify with the “sign” Yahweh gives us that we might learn of Him by keeping His Sabbaths. Spiritual enrichment for the entire family is a part of His plan that we get to know and share our joy and experiences with the future kings and priests of His coming Kingdom! Making Feast attendance part of our lives is a spiritually maturing experience as we discipline ourselves to obey our Father and gather where He has placed His Name. See YOU There!

The three “Pilgrim Feasts” are: the seven days of Unleavened Bread, Pentecost, and the eight days at Tabernacles. Preparations such as plane reservations, transportation, accommodations, and auto repairs should be taken care of early. Feast reservation information will be available as we approach these special times. Consider the words of Moses to Israel just before they were to cross over into the Promised Land – just as the faithful will some day come into the Kingdom: “Three times in a year shall all thy males appear before Yahweh your Elohim in the place which he shall choose; in the feast of unleavened bread, and in the feast of weeks, and in the feast of tabernacles: and they shall not appear before Yahweh empty” (Deut. 16:16). Yahweh promises a blessing upon those who obey Him. Don’t you want to be blessed? Isn’t it time you came out of the world of sin in these last days and prepared for your eternal life in Yahweh? We look forward to seeing YOU with us at the commanded Feasts!

Outreach Program’s Current Partners We recognize our outreach partners for their outstanding dedication to the Truth in their effort to fulfill the Great Commission. If you are interested in becoming an outreach partner to help us spread the Truth, visit http://www.yrm.org/outreach or call us at (573) 896-1000 during normal office hours (M-F, 8:00 am- 4:00 pm.) We willl explain how you can be an outreach partner and join this group committed to spreading the Good News!

Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

Barbara Creel Brenda Scott Candice Strauss Carol Moore Charles Shifflett Chris Cook David Paxton Dezaree Ryon Donna Lambert

Howard Francis Israel Corban Jason & Amy Pletz Jerry Lanning Joshua Deck Kenny Samuels Kristina Howard Linda Cox Max Ervin

Michael Price Michelle Mackie Pastor Joe Vianna Ric Arevalos Richard Fisher Richard Keeley Robert Lopes Russ Thain

The

Devotion of Ruth by Joel Wirl

n Deuteronomy 6:4-5 Moses said to Israel, “Hear, O Israel: Yahweh our Elohim is one Yahweh: and you shall love Yahweh your Elohim with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might.” He is telling Israel and those who read this passage to be fully committed to Yahweh. It means being devoted to Yahweh in all that we think, feel, and do. One person in the Bible who truly understood this concept of devotion was Ruth. She did not allow her own comfort and ease to hold her back from doing what was right. Ruth’s story begins in chapter one of Ruth. She was a Moabite living in her own country when a family from the land of Bethlehemjudah moved into her area because of a famine that had occurred in their homeland. Sometime after the family’s father, Elimelech, died, one of his sons took Ruth as his wife and the other son took a woman by the name of Orpah as his wife.

Sadly, the two sons died also, and all that was left of the family were Naomi, who was the wife of Elimelech, Orpah, and Ruth. Naomi, having heard that the famine was over in Bethlehemjudah, determined to return to her home country, and Orpah and Ruth wanted to go with her. Naomi, not wanting to burden her daughters-in-law to return with her, said to them, “Go, return each to her mother’s house: Yahweh deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with the dead, and with me. Yahweh grant you that ye may find rest, each of you in the house of her husband. Then she kissed them: and they lifted up their voice, and wept. And they said unto her, Surely we will return with thee unto thy people. And Nomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? Are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands? Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have a husband. If I should say, I have hope, if I should have a husband also tonight, and should also bear sons; would ye

tarry for them till they are grown? Would ye stay for them from having husbands? Nay, my daughters; for it grieveth me much for your sakes that the hand of Yahweh is gone out against me,” Ruth 1:8-13. Clearly Orpah and Ruth loved Naomi very much and were willing to give up so much for her, yet Naomi’s admonition to them was valid. There wasn’t much benefit for them to return with Naomi since they would be leaving all they had known… or was there? Was there a greater advantage in going with Naomi? Moabite Culture The Moabites were not like Israel. During the time of the judges the Israelites sinned and were conquered many times, but they eventually came to their senses and sought Yahweh again as their Elohim. The Moabites had a different mighty one called Chemosh, which is another name for Molech. Numbers 21:28-29 shows us, “For there is a fire gone out of Heshbon, a flame from Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

the city of Sihon: it hath consumed Ar of Moab, and the masters of the high places of Arnon. Woe to thee, Moab! Thou art undone, O people of Chemosh: he hath given his sons that escaped, and his daughters, into captivity unto Sihon king of the Amorites.” Chemosh was considered a deity of war. To ensure this deity’s favor it was necessary to sacrifice children to it. Imagine living in a culture where it is encouraged and legally sanctioned to kill your own children through this horrible sacrifice. This is what it was like to live in Moab. This custom of human sacrifice even made its way into the Israelite culture during the reign of Solomon. “But king Solomon loved many strange women, together with the daughter of Pharaoh, women of the Moabites, A m m o n i t e s , Edomites, Zidonians, and Hittites…then did Solomon build a high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the hill that is before Jerusalem, and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon,” 1Kings 11:1-7. It is sad to see this horrible practice inculcated into Israelite culture. The Moabite culture was anything but good, especially in comparison to how Yahweh wants it to be. This is what Ruth and Orpah had the choice of leaving. Although Naomi’s admonition had some valid points, they still had the choice to leave. They could stay where they were in Moab, a place full of evil practices and idolatry, where they had lived their whole lives with all those they had known their whole lives, or go with Naomi to a land that at the time served Yahweh. Ruth’s Devotion In Ruth 1:14 we find their decision, “And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her. And she said, Behold, your sister in law is gone back unto her people,

Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

and unto her mighty ones: return after thy sister in law.” Orpah decided to stay in the land of Moab, but Ruth was determined to go with Naomi to Bethlehemjudah. “And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave you, or to return from following after you: for whither you go, I will go; and where you lodge, I will lodge: your people shall be my people, and your Elohim my Elohim. Where you die, will I die, and there will I be buried: Yahweh do so to me, and more also if ought but death part you and me.” Ruth was determined to give up all she had known to follow Naomi, to adopt her customs, and most importantly to adopt Yahweh as her Elohim. She must have

realized that there was a greater benefit for her in going with Naomi than in staying in Moab; otherwise she would not have decided this way. Our Devotion With this story of Ruth in mind, let us consider our own lives. Ruth was completely devoted to Naomi in all aspects of her life. Are we just as devoted to Yahweh? Are we willing to do what it takes to serve Him, no matter what the cost? It’s not a matter of relocating as Ruth had to do, but a willingness to move our thoughts, feelings, and actions in the direction that Yahweh wants us to go. And where does Yahweh want us to go? In Matthew 4:18-22 Yahshua is

out strolling. “And Yahshua, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he said unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets: and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.” So where does Yahweh want us to go? He wants us to follow His son, Yahshua. He wants us to pursue Him as Ruth pursued going with Naomi. He wants us to say to Him, “Intreat me not to leave you, or to return from following after you: for whither you go, I will go; and where you are, there I will be: I want to be a part of your family and to follow after your Elohim who is Yahweh.” This is the kind of devotion that Yahweh wants from everyone. Ruth could not be in Moab and Bethlehemjudah at the same time, but had to make a choice. This is our same choice. We cannot follow both Yahshua and our sinful natures at the same time. The level of devotion we have for Yahweh through Yahshua is not up to anyone but ourselves. Living our lives for Yahweh is not always easy, as it can feel as if we are very different in this world. Nor is it easy redirecting our thoughts, feelings, and actions to match how He wants us to live, but in the end, it is a more blessed experience. Look how Ruth was blessed by her choice: She married a wealthy man named Boaz and became the great-grandmother to David. How amazing is that! Those of us who follow Yahshua, living our lives fully devoted to Him, are given the promise to be raised from death and to live in eternity on this earth with Him and Yahweh. Follow Yahshua; it’s the better choice.

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in Scripture Did Eve and Satan produce the offspring of Cain or was Adam his real father? I am leaning toward believing Satan was Cain’s father. We do not believe that Satan fathered Cain, but that Cain was the offspring of Adam and Eve. At the birth of Cain, Eve said, “I have gotten a man from Yahweh,” Genesis 4:1. She felt blessed by Yahweh to bear this firstborn son. She would not have said he was from Yahweh (meaning a blessing) if Satan were the father. We caution against Jewish mysticism or symbolism. Many such beliefs were influenced by heathen sources. The best approach to the Bible is to always consider the literal meaning and only then the symbolic and dual interpretation. The other problem regarding Satan’s fathering Cain is that the Bible nowhere shows that Satan can procreate. Yahshua verified that angels, spirit beings, are not given in marriage (Matt. 22:30), indicating that they lack the ability to procreate, Genesis 1:22 (for additional information, see our online article, “Sons of Elohim,” http://yrm.org/sons_of_ elohim.htm). Think about the consequences if Satan could procreate. There would be no need for him to deceive mankind into following him as he could engender his own massive civilization of rebellious people. I am being told that I don’t have to obey the Law because I am under a New Covenant in Yahshua. Are we not free in Messiah since no one can keep the Law? We are to follow in all the teachings and examples of our Savior, Yahshua the Messiah (1Peter 2:21), which includes obedience to our

Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

Father’s commands and law. The common notion that lawkeeping is no longer required in the New Testament is incorrect. Yahshua and the Apostles stated on several occasions that obedience was still a requirement, including: Matthew 5:17-18; 19:17; John 14:15; Romans 3:31; 7:12; 1Corinthians 7:19; 1John 2:3-4; 5:3; Revelation 12:17; 14:12; 22:14. We are called to learn all about Yahweh and His Son so that we can be like them. The law helps us to do that because it is the ethics and code they live by. It needs to be ours, too. Did not Yahshua declare that it was not what goes into a man that defiles him but what comes out of his mouth? When the disciples asked about what He meant, He explained that what a man eats goes into the mouth, through the digestive tract, and then out of the body. Your question is about Yahshua’s statement in Mark 7:18-23, “And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him; Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats? And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.” This passage is not referring to unclean food, but to rabbinical, ritual washings. Mark 7:2 states, “And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault.” Matthew offers a parallel account,

which provides a summation that’s not found in Mark: “Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught? But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man,” Matthew 15:1720. Nothing is stated here about unclean meats. Neither is there any passage setting aside the clean food laws commanded in the Old Testament. What we find in the New Testament are lessons about rabbinical laws, distinctions between Jew and gentile (Acts 10:9-17, 28, 34-35), and foods sacrificed to idols (1Corinthians 10:23-28). I listened to your teaching via television regarding man’s not having an immortal soul. Please explain the following scriptures that talk about being absent from the body and present with the Master: Philippians 1:23-24; 2Corinthians 5:6-8. Also, Luke 16:19-31 of which I believe is not a parable but a reality because of what Yahshua said in verse 19 by the words “certain rich man.” Paul in Philippians 1:23-24 says, “For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Messiah; which is far better: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.” It’s important to note that Paul states here that he had a “desire to depart.” It doesn’t say that he COULD depart and be with the Messiah. All believers in the Messiah share in this desire, but it doesn’t say we are immortal. In like manner, 2Corinthians 5:6-8 states, “Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst

we are at home in the body, we are absent from Yahweh: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with Yahweh.” Paul says he is “willing rather.” He is again simply stating his preference of being with Messiah. This does not imply, however, that he was or would be with Messiah after death. The same phrase is used in 1Corinthians 5:3, where Paul says he was “absent in body” but he is yet there in spirit with the Corinthians. In other words, he is not bodily present, but he still has made a judgment. He was not a spirit being. Luke 16:19-31 is one parable in a string of parables that begin in Luke 14. As we explain in the Restoration Study Bible, “The parable teaches that there is no chance of repentance after death (a condition compared to a great gulf). Abraham has died and is still awaiting the resurrection (Heb. 11:13). Both men, the Pharisee and Lazarus, end up like Abraham in the same resting place of the grave, not heaven (v. 22). The Greek basanos, translated ‘torment,’ signifies the lowest part of the grave. With no chance of eternal life (Matt. 5:20), the Pharisee is in anguish (Ezek. 36:31), and asks for just a finger-tip of water for his dry tongue, not gallons of water as if immersed in hellfire. He is in ‘hell,’ which from the Greek is hades, meaning the grave. Yahshua reminds us that no man has ascended to heaven but Himself (John 3:13).The Pharisee enjoyed the good things of temporal life, while the beggar Lazarus (representing faithful servants, including spiritually transformed gentiles) are assured eternal life (Gen. 15:2-3),” note in Luke 16:19. It’s important to remember that the Bible teaches that upon death a person’s spirit or breath returns to Yahweh (Ecc. 12:7) and the person in an unconscious state (Ps.146:4; Ecc. 9:10) sleeps in the grave waiting for the resurrection (Dan. 12:2, Matt. 27:52; IThess. 4:13-15). I have a family member who believes if it isn’t King James it isn’t the Bible. Do you have any suggestions on how to approach and deal with this situation? The KJV is a respectable Bible. We based the Restoration Study Bible on this translation. However, no translation is perfect. While the translators of the KJV tried to provide an accurate Bible, it is not without error. For example, it’s the only translation that contains “Easter” instead of “Passover” in Acts 12:4. The Greek word for “Easter” is

pascha. Strong’s states: “...of Aramaic origin [compare OT:6453]; the Passover (the meal, the day, the festival or the special sacrifices connected with it).” It also contains questionable passages. For example, scholarship has proven beyond a reasonable doubt that elements within 1John 5:7-8 were added. As we note in the Restoration Study Bible, “This passage has been embraced by many as confirmation for the doctrine of the Trinity, which is best defined through the Athanasian Creed, which is scripturally unfounded. The following in parenthesis is absent from all texts prior to the sixteenth century: ‘For there are three that bear record (in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit: and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness on earth), the Spirit, and the water, and the blood; and these three agree in one.’ These additions are universally acknowledged as erroneous by nearly all biblical scholars.” All translations contain mistakes. For this reason it’s important that we look beyond the English and study the Hebrew and Greek texts. Looking over your website I noticed that some of your teachings look very familiar, no holidays, torture stake, different Bible translation, all of which sound like Jehovah’s Witnesses (I used to be one), except for the seventh-day Sabbath, which is similar to the Seventh-day Adventists. I’m confused. The Witnesses claim they are “the truth” and now it seems that’s what you are saying. We are neither Jehovah’s Witnesses nor Seventh-day Adventists. While we share a few beliefs, we have a unique message that we believe offers a more complete and accurate understanding of Scripture, including a strong conviction for the original Names of the Father and Son, the Sabbath, and annual Feast days. As believers, it’s important that we seek the whole message of the Bible and worship our Father Yahweh as He commands, John 4:23; Acts 17:11; 17:30; 1Thessalonians 5:21; James 2:10. Our Restoration Study Bible is the KJV and not a new or different translation. It is a study Bible with the true Names of Father and Son restored, thousands of study notes and more. I just talked to someone about the book of Enoch. I have never heard of it. I went online and got some info saying to stay away from that book. Can you give me any insights?

The book of Enoch is a pseudepigraphal book that was rejected by the early “church” for its heretical views. One such view is that angels had relations with the daughters of men, based on Genesis 6:3. This passage is more likely a reference to righteous men, possibly from the line of Seth, marrying wicked women. It also mentions an angel named “Phanuel,” who is over the repentance of the elect. The Bible is silent on such an angel and the very concept of an angel taking a role in man’s salvation is nowhere else in Scripture. Also, this was not written by the man we know as Enoch, but by an unknown author much later. In a sermon you mentioned Matthew 18:15-17 in solving problems. Please explain. Matthew 18 is Yahshua’s lesson on how to solve interpersonal issues. If someone has wronged you, first go to that person and discuss it with him in an effort to work it out. If he refuses to listen to you, take the next step. Most people, not wanting to face the other person, go directly to others about it and often put down the offending person, which creates more problems. Yahshua’s teaching is to go to the source and nip it in the bud without escalating the problem further and making matters worse. Your information says the body waits in the grave for the resurrection. If a person was cremated, died at sea or suffered another kind of death where there no longer is a body, how do we deal with that? My husband requested cremation and we honored that when he passed away two years ago. Now I’m wondering if that is the right thing to do. While we do not advocate cremation because of its connection with paganism and Yahweh’s form of punishment upon the wicked (Lev. 20:14; 21:9; Josh. 7:15; Mal. 4:3), we do believe that Yahweh is able to re-create the person regardless of the circumstances of his death. Scripture states that everyone will stand before the judgment seat, 2Corinthians 5:10. For this to happen, Yahweh will need to reassemble individuals, including those who were cremated, and put life back in them. Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

Tabernacles 2013 Memories

Live from the Discover the Truth studios

Jour oin us for first live webinar–Dec. 27

oin Elders Randy Folliard and Alan Mansager, hosts of Discover the Truth, and guests, Elder Pete Vacca from Yahweh’s Assembly in Messiah, and Elder Dwayne Wilson from Reach for Yahweh International Ministries, for a FREE live video webinar from the Discover the Truth studios on Friday, December 27th @ __7:00 pm, Central time. To join, simply log on to yrm.org/live. In this exciting webinar we’ll discuss the prophetic trends that we’re seeing in the world today, including the numerous conflicts and unrest, the natural disasters, the increase in immorality, the looming financial collapse, and much more. If you’re concerned about what you’re seeing in the world today, then we invite you to join us for this eye-opening, live webinar.

Restoration Times Magazine November-December 2013

Feedback From Mail | Emails | Social Media Truly Blessed with Discoveries “ I have read some of your booklets and have been truly blessed by them. And I have also watched some of your DVDs. I was truly, truly blessed to find out Yahshua’s real name. I plan to send you some donations very soon because I love your website.” – G.A., email Never Before So Willing and Eager to Learn “For quite some time now I have yearned to believe in something, I just didn’t know what to believe in. I was raised in a home that did not force any particular branch of religion, just to find “God” in our own way. My mother was a Jehovah’s Witness and my father an atheist. For quite some time I studied with the Jehovah’s Witnesses and found the path. “Some things didn’t sit quite right with me though. I investigated other religions as well and so much just didn’t make sense to me. This put me to a point of being borderline agnostic. “Quite recently I came upon your services via the television that was on in one of my patients’ room. This may make me a bad employee, but I sat and watched the majority of your service and thought to myself that it was the most honest and intelligible sermon I had ever witnessed. I immediately ordered two of the free pamphlets and read the rest online. Tomorrow when I get paid I will be making a small donation and ordering the Restoration Study Bible. I am a nursing student with very humbling means so I have to pace myself. “I am also in the process of converting to a kosher diet. Never before have I been so willing and eager to learn about our Creator and His commands. I would like to extend a very warm thank you to you all and ask whether there are any like congregations near the Knoxville, Tennessee, area. I would like as much information about your congregation as possible. Again, thank you for opening my eyes and heart.” – M.L., email RSB Explanation ‘Wonderful’ “We are using the Bible at our congregation. Not only having the sacred Names in there,

I love the fact you place the baptism in Yahshua’ s Name in the right perspective. I’ve never seen this in another version, although it may be. I believe the foundation of salvation is very important, and its explanation in the Restoration Bible is wonderful... Keep up the great work!” – M.E., Facebook RSB ‘Feels Right to Use’ “I purchased the Bible and truly feel good when I read it. I am one who is very attached to my Bible and feel weird when I use another. Can’t explain, it just is. However, with the RSB I do not feel that way. It feels right to use. I use both my Bibles, but find I replace the names when using my other KJV. I truly appreciate the RSB.” – K.W., email Cases of RSBs Ordered “LOVE IT! I have ordered 17 (Restoration Study Bibles) so far and plan to order another case or two. I’m giving them to everyone I know...” – S.C., email A Small Library in One Bible “Many thanks to this ministry and all that it has available for those who live without a place to go and be with like-minded believers to worship and praise our Almighty Yahweh in an Assembly where they live. To think all I have to do is turn on my desktop computer and key in YRM.ORG, and the website comes into my apartment in a matter of two or three seconds…I cannot thank Yahweh enough for YRM. The Restoration Study Bible is also a blessing for me. I have a Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible that I have used from the early eighties, however being a grandmother and not having to pick that book up every time I’m doing a research in Hebrew or Greek is wonderful because you have made both Strong’s Hebrew Dictionary and Greek Dictionary available in the RSB. The Topical Reference is very helpful when looking up a certain topic to study…I hope more believers will take advantage of the RSB when studying, listening online or viewing the DVD’s that you make available to us. Yahweh willing I hope to purchase more RSB Bibles to give to family and friends.” – S.F. CA

Send us your comments Visit: yrm.org/feedback RSB Going International “…I ordered your Bible and one for a brother in England. This Bible is truly remarkable and like no other I have ever seen. It is a must have.” – A.P., Facebook A Shout Out on Facebook “If you are looking for Bible truths, and people who are genuine ‘doers’ of what the Bible says to do, you need to watch the Sabbath services, and join these wonderful people and keep Yahweh’s Feasts. We have been worshiping with YRM for over three years, and can tell you they are the REAL thing!” – R.F., Facebook Magazine Opened My Heart and Mind “I have just finished studying the May-June Restoration Times magazine. Wow! I have prayed over it and read from different Bibles and commentaries, prayed some more and read some more and Yahweh through this has opened by heart, mind, and eyes to a lot of new truths. Finding this ministry is such a blessing and inspiration, praise Yahweh! I cannot wait to get my next issue.” – C.M., FL YRM Goes Livestream, Tweets “We were thrilled to see that you’re on Livestream also, because now we can watch you on our ROKU player. Recently I found you on Twitter as well! Thank you for all you do.” – M.I., Facebook Restoration Around the World “The ‘Restoration’ is worldwide! I am here in the southern part of India and have been greatly blessed with biblical truths being expounded by YRM. It has changed my life to LOVE Yahweh our Elohim and accept Yahshua the Messiah my Saviour provided by Yahweh! I am striving now to walk in repentance because of the grace provided! HalleluYAH!” – A.Y., Facebook With Great Appreciation I did get your Bible in the mail today. Looks GREAT! I may appreciate it more than you can know. Thank you so very much. – R.M., Internet We would love to have YOUR comments on anything we do here at YRM. – Editor

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