Overview
This Torah Life Application class focused on understanding the deeper meaning of Yah’s thoughts, particularly regarding His covenant and expectations for His people. The teaching traced scriptural references from the Hebrew Bible and New Testament, emphasizing aligning personal plans with Yah’s intricate plans and remaining within His covenant through love, trust, and obedience.
Meaning of Yah’s Thoughts
- Yah’s thoughts are described as intricate, deliberate plans deeply connected to covenant with His people.
- The Hebrew word for thoughts, "makashabet," includes meanings like device, purpose, and plan.
- His thoughts reflect a “mighty plan of covenant,” not just intentions for our lives.
Covenant and Alignment
- Yah’s plans are always tied to covenant—people are either inside or outside of it.
- The teaching contrasts Yah’s pure intentions (thoughts of peace, not evil) with humanity’s natural tendency towards wickedness.
- Emphasis is placed on the need to submit personal authority to Yah to align with His will.
Scriptural Exploration
- Jeremiah 29:11 is analyzed to show Yah’s intention to bring His people to an “expected end.”
- Isaiah 55 stresses the difference between Yah’s ways and human ways.
- Prophets are shown as recipients of Yah’s revealed plans, and returning to Yah (teshuva) is highlighted as a recurring command.
- The Ark of the Covenant is discussed as symbolic of His presence, with future hope centered on direct relationship rather than sacred objects.
Covenant Rituals and Restoration
- The idea of “cutting a covenant” (korath barit) is explained, signifying the seriousness of commitment.
- Yah’s promises of restoration, mercy, and bringing His people back are supported by passages from Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Hosea.
- The Sabbath (Shabbat) is connected as a sign of returning and pressing into covenant rest and celebration.
Patience, Trust, and Obedience
- Believers are encouraged to patiently wait for Yah’s plans to unfold, remaining steadfast in trust and obedience.
- Love for Yah is foundational, leading to trust and ultimately obedience to His commandments.
- The concept of “good and faithful servant” is explained as fulfilling purpose through confirmed faith and following Yahusha’s example.
Humanity of Mashiach
- The humanity of Yahusha (Jesus) is emphasized as essential for the work of redemption and as central to the gospel message.
- Denying His humanity is equated with taking on the spirit of the antichrist, based on scriptural references.
Encouragement and Community Sharing
- Participants express encouragement, gratitude, and recognize the importance of simple, practical teaching for all levels of faith.
- Personal stories highlight witnessing and the challenge of reaching those outside the covenant.
Prayer and Exhortation
- A closing prayer asks for Yah’s continued guidance, clarity, mercy, and for the opening of hearts and understanding.
Announcements
- Information shared about upcoming fasting (Jan 15–18), Passover celebration (Mar 26–28), Pentecost/Shavuot in Philadelphia, and a mega conference in Myrtle Beach.
- Introduction of upcoming and ongoing ministries: women's roundtable, marriage ministry, singles ministry, and youth ministry.
- Details provided for assembly locations and ways to give financially.
Key Dates / Deadlines
- Three-day fast: January 15, 6 pm – January 18, 6 pm.
- Passover event: March 26–28, 2021 (Seder meal: March 27).
- Monthly marriage ministry: Every third Saturday, 7 pm EST.
Action Items
- TBD – All Participants: Register for upcoming events and ministries as interested via the website.
- January 15, 6 pm – All Interested: Begin participation in the community fast.
- Ongoing – Leaders/Teachers: Continue to teach and share accessible, practical Torah-based teachings.
- TBD – Community: Pray for those mentioned by name (e.g., Tasha/Tashi) and others outside the covenant.