Founded in Truth Fellowship - Bible Teachings and Sermons

Sermon on the Mount - The Narrow Gate

Sermon on the Mount - The Narrow Gate
Exploring the Sermon on the Mount
Shabbat Shalom! As we conclude our journey through the Sermon on the Mount, we are reminded of its profound significance as the manifesto of the kingdom of God, as preached by Yeshua. This series has been a deep exploration into what it truly means to follow Him, challenging us to invert our worldly perspectives. The teachings of Yeshua push us to reconsider our actions, question our loyalties, and evaluate where our true commitments lie. A pivotal point in Yeshua's sermon is Matthew 7:13, where he says, "Enter through the narrow gate, for the gate is wide and the road is easy that leads to destruction, and many enter through it."
The Symbolism of Gates
Gates have historically symbolized power, security, and identity. In ancient times, gates were not just doors but represented larger ideas. They were places where judgments were made and where cities showcased their dominance. The wide gates of cities like Rome epitomized imperial power, exemplified through structures like the Arch of Titus. These gates celebrated military victories and were adorned with reliefs depicting battles and deities. Such symbols stood as constant reminders of the empire's strength, a stark contrast to Yeshua's call to enter through the narrow gate.
The Broad and Narrow Gates
Yeshua's message contrasts the broad and narrow gates. The broad road is likened to the world and its empires, promising ease and acceptance but ultimately leading to ruin. It's a path that accommodates crowds, appealing to comfort and conformity. On the other hand, the narrow gate symbolizes a life of intentionality and commitment to the kingdom values Yeshua preached. It is a solitary path, challenging but leading to life.
Historical Context and Yeshua's Radical Call
Matthew Vander Els connects ancient historical examples to illustrate the broader implications of Yeshua's teachings. Rome's grand arches, such as those built by Titus and Constantine, celebrated military conquests and imperial power. The Arch of Constantine, for example, marked a turning point when Christianity became entwined with Roman imperialism. Despite Constantine's supposed vision, the arch displays pagan symbols, highlighting the tension between true allegiance to Yeshua and conformity to worldly power.
Choosing the Narrow Gate in Today's World
Yeshua's imagery of the narrow gate is deeply rooted in the Hebrew Bible, where life is depicted as a journey full of choices. The dual paths recall the Garden of Eden, Cain's decision, Noah's Ark, and Passover, each representing a spiritual threshold. These narratives illustrate that true allegiance requires deliberate choices, aligning with God's kingdom rather than the world's systems.
Real-World Applications and Challenges
The call to walk through the narrow gate continues today, challenging us to live counterculturally. This means choosing love over hatred, forgiveness over retaliation, and humility over pride. It involves the practical application of Yeshua's teachings, such as loving our enemies, practicing radical generosity, and standing for justice. These actions require a heart commitment, not just external adherence to religious norms.
Love Your Enemies: Actively pray for those who oppose you, transforming enmity into compassion.
Forgive Authentically: Choose forgiveness when retaliation feels justified, releasing bitterness and offering mercy.
Practice Generosity: Share resources and prioritize community, rejecting consumerism's false promises of happiness.
Embrace Humility: Lay down the need for control and recognition, standing for justice without self-interest.
Engage with Empathy: Approach others with understanding, even when cultural differences arise.
Sophie's Example and the Cost of the Narrow Path
Sophie Scholl, a young woman in Nazi Germany, serves as an inspiration for choosing the narrow path. Her courage to distribute pamphlets against the Nazi regime, at great personal cost, exemplifies the sacrificial nature of following Yeshua. Her story challenges us to consider the broad roads that tempt us today and to choose the narrow path even when it is costly.
Conclusion: A Call to Allegiance
Yeshua's teachings invite us to make intentional choices that reflect true allegiance to His kingdom. It's a call to live out our faith not just in words but through our daily actions and decisions. As we face our own gates and thresholds, may we choose the path that aligns with the values of love, justice, and humility that define the kingdom of God.
For more Bible Teachings, click here.
Referenced Bible Verses
Matthew 7:13
Joshua 4
Genesis 3:24
Psalm 1
Deuteronomy 30:19
Recommended Resources
Simply Jesus by N.T. Wright
The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard
The Bible Project by Tim Mackie
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Blood and Water: Echoes of Exodus in the New Testament

Blood and Water: Echoes of Exodus in the New Testament
In this teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship, the speaker relates the narrative of Passover, not merely as a historical event, but as a profound biblical motif that finds its culmination in the New Testament. This message, inspired by Matthew Vander Els, dives into how the Exodus story and its themes reverberate through the scriptures, ultimately pointing to Jesus (Yeshua) as the one who completes and transforms the narrative of liberation and creation.
The Story of Passover Beyond History
The teaching opens with a discussion on John's Gospel, highlighting how the authors of the New Testament were intentional in crafting their narratives to reveal deeper truths. John's account is particularly noted for its selective inclusion of stories, aiming to present Jesus as the climax of the biblical narrative. This underscores that the Bible isn't just a collection of historical events but a cohesive story about God's rescue mission through Jesus.
The Motif of Water and New Creation
Drawing parallels from Genesis to Exodus, the speaker explores the recurring motif of water and dry land as symbols of new creation and liberation. The Exodus story, particularly the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 14), is paralleled with the creation account in Genesis, where God brings forth life from the chaos of waters. This pattern continues with the Israelites crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land, symbolizing God's rest and new creation for His people.
Israel's Downfall and the Promise of a New Exodus
The narrative of Israel's journey into Canaan and their eventual downfall is examined through the lens of the kingship of Solomon, who epitomized a drift from God's intentions. The speaker emphasizes how Israel, once liberated, began to emulate oppressive empires, leading to their exile. However, the prophets foresaw a new Exodus, one that would transcend physical liberation and bring spiritual renewal through a new creation.
John the Baptist and the New Exodus
The teaching delves into the role of John the Baptist, who, in the wilderness, heralded the coming of this new Exodus. All four gospel accounts draw from Isaiah's imagery of the wilderness as a place of transformation, inviting people to prepare for the Lord's coming and the new creation He brings. John is depicted as a voice calling people out of bondage into a transformative encounter with God.
Yeshua as the Fulfillment of the Exodus
The narratives of Matthew and John are highlighted for their emphasis on Jesus as the fulfillment of the Exodus. Matthew parallels Yeshua's life with Moses, drawing connections between their childhoods and missions. John, on the other hand, uses Passover imagery to present Yeshua as the Lamb of God, the ultimate liberator who takes away the sins of the world. The speaker notes John's unique portrayal of Yeshua's crucifixion as the ultimate Passover sacrifice, highlighting His role in initiating a new creation.
The New Creation Reality
The narrative reaches its crescendo with Yeshua's resurrection, depicted as the inauguration of new creation. His appearance to Mary Magdalene in the garden symbolizes the reopening of Eden, a return to the intended communion between God and humanity. The teaching underscores the transformative power of Yeshua's resurrection, inviting believers to embrace the new creation reality and let go of their chains of sin and death.
Takeaways and Life Applications
Recognize the Bible as a unified story, with the Exodus motif pointing to liberation and new creation through Yeshua.
Understand the deeper themes in biblical narratives, such as water and new creation, and their significance in God's rescue mission.
Reflect on the parallels between old and new Exodus stories, seeing Yeshua as the fulfillment of these motifs.
Embrace the new creation reality, letting go of sin and embracing the freedom that Yeshua provides.
Prepare for the season of Passover and Unleavened Bread by meditating on Yeshua's transformative work.
Engage with the teachings of the prophets and the New Testament authors to fully appreciate the narrative of liberation and renewal.
Bible Verses Mentioned
John 21:25
Exodus 14
Genesis 1
1 Kings 10:14
Isaiah 40
Luke 3:2
John 1:9
John 19
Recommended Resources
The Bible Project by Tim Mackie
The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard
Simply Jesus by N.T. Wright
Being God's Image by Carmen Imes
For more Bible Teachings, click here.
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Sermon on the Mount - Ask and It Will Be Given to You

Sermon on the Mount - Ask and It Will Be Given to You
This teaching delved into a famous, yet often misunderstood, teaching of Yeshua from the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on the verses "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you" (Matthew 7:7). The speaker, Matthew Vander Els of Founded in Truth Fellowship, explored how these verses invite believers into a deeper relationship with God rather than offering a formula for material gain.
Understanding the Heart of Prayer
The sermon opened with a reflection on how people often approach prayer with a "Veruca Salt" mindset—demanding from God like the spoiled child from "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory." This mindset misconstrues the nature of prayer as a way to manipulate God into fulfilling personal desires instantly. Yeshua’s teaching encourages us to see prayer as a transformative relationship rather than a transactional mechanism. The reference to Dallas Willard’s book, "The Divine Conspiracy," further emphasized the idea that the kingdom of God is present and accessible now, and understanding this kingdom requires learning how to ask, seek, and knock with persistence and faith.
Reinterpreting Ask, Seek, and Knock
The speaker challenged the common interpretation of the verses as guarantees for getting what we want. Instead, the Greek structure of these verbs suggests a call to persistent action: "keep asking, keep seeking, keep knocking." This persistence is not about coercing God but about remaining open to His presence and guidance, even when immediate answers aren't evident. Through this lens, prayer becomes about becoming more aligned with God's will and growing into the people God calls us to be.
Prayer as Relationship, Not Transaction
The teaching highlighted the difference between treating prayer as a way to extract favors from God and engaging in it as an evolving relationship. Mature faith shifts the focus from demanding specific outcomes to trusting in God's good nature and His timing. The speaker used personal anecdotes to illustrate how God's answers may not align with our immediate desires but can lead to personal growth and strengthened faith.
The Role of Trust and Faithfulness
Yeshua's invitation to ask, seek, and knock is fundamentally an invitation to trust in God's goodness and faithfulness. The teaching emphasized that God is a loving Father who gives good gifts, contrasting this with the image of an indifferent or punitive deity. This perception of God shapes how we approach prayer and trust in His provision.
Living in the Kingdom Now
Matthew Vander Els tied the teaching to the broader theme of living in God's kingdom now. By engaging in persistent prayer, believers participate in the kingdom's unfolding on earth. This perspective reframes prayer as transformative not only for individuals but also for the world, encouraging engagement with social justice issues and community needs.
Desmond Tutu and Persistent Faith
An inspiring example of persistent faith was shared through the story of Desmond Tutu, who fought against apartheid in South Africa through non-violence and prayer. Tutu's life demonstrated how persistence in prayer and faith can lead to societal change, highlighting that the kingdom of God is actively at work in the world.
Key Takeaways and Life Applications
Prayer is about relationship, not transaction. Engage with God in prayer to align with His will and experience transformation.
Persist in asking, seeking, and knocking, trusting that God’s timing and methods may differ from our expectations but are ultimately for our growth.
View prayer as part of living in the kingdom of God now, rather than a tool for personal gain.
Engage with social justice issues as a way to inaugurate God's kingdom on earth, following the example of figures like Desmond Tutu.
Trust in God's goodness as a loving Father who knows and gives what is best for His children.
Conclusion
The message concluded by encouraging believers to continue pursuing God through prayer, emphasizing that God is always near and responsive. The teaching called for a shift from seeing God as a vending machine to viewing Him as a loving Father, where the real gift is not just the answer to prayers but God Himself.
Bible Verses Referenced
Matthew 7:7
Recommended Books and Resources
The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard
Simply Jesus by N.T. Wright
The Lost World of Genesis One by John H. Walton
For more Bible Teachings, click here.
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Sermon on the Mount - Pigs and Pearls

Sermon on the Mount - Pigs and Pearls
Matthew Vander Els, one of the leading voices at Founded in Truth Fellowship, delivers a profound message about discernment and judgment, based on the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. This teaching dives into the wisdom of distinguishing when, where, and how to apply the principles of faith, especially in relation to others.
Main Themes and Insights
The sermon opens with a reflection on the wisdom literature found in Proverbs, particularly Proverbs 26:4-5, which appears to give contradictory advice about dealing with foolishness. Vander Els points out that this reflects the nuanced nature of wisdom, which is not rigid but rather a guide for discernment in various situations.
A significant portion of the message focuses on Matthew 7, where Jesus warns against judging others. Vander Els emphasizes that the instruction not to judge is not about ignoring wrongdoing but about approaching others with a default of grace, mercy, and love. He relates this to the broader theme of spiritual transformation coming from love and humility, rather than condemnation.
Judgment and Control
Vander Els discusses the human tendency to judge and label others as a form of control, which he suggests is a fruit of the knowledge of good and evil—a role meant for God alone. This leads to societal violence when everyone assumes the role of moral arbiter. He draws a parallel to the pre-Flood narrative, illustrating how divine intervention failed to eradicate human violence, planting an early biblical theme that violence cannot end violence, echoing Jesus' radical teachings on love and forgiveness.
Pearls and Pigs: A Deeper Understanding
The sermon then transitions into an exploration of Matthew 7:6, the verse about not throwing pearls before pigs. Vander Els challenges the traditional interpretation of this verse, urging us to consider why we would give pearls to pigs in the first place. He emphasizes that the pigs in Jesus' metaphor are not the antagonists, but rather victims of misunderstanding—creatures that need sustenance, not valuables they cannot appreciate or use.
This metaphor serves as a potent reminder of how believers sometimes impose spiritual 'pearls' on others instead of addressing their real needs. He cautions against using religion as a means of control, highlighting the importance of wisdom in recognizing and responding to the genuine needs of others.
Practical Applications
Approach others with grace, mercy, and love, as opposed to judgment and condemnation.
Discern the real needs of those around you instead of imposing your spiritual beliefs on them.
Recognize that wisdom involves knowing when to share truth and when to simply be present for others.
Focus on being a vessel for God’s love rather than trying to control or change others for your comfort.
Remember that real transformation is led by love and space for God to work, not by force or coercion.
Wisdom in Action: The Example of Solomon
Vander Els uses the example of King Solomon's wisdom in 1 Kings 3 as an illustration of how discernment and true wisdom can lead to justice without condemnation. Solomon's decision in the case of the two women arguing over a child highlights his ability to address immediate needs without delving into their moral failings.
By handling the situation with discernment rather than judgment, Solomon exemplified the wisdom that Jesus calls us to in dealing with others. The ability to see beyond the surface and provide what is truly needed is at the heart of the message.
Conclusion and Reflection
The sermon ends with a challenge: will we walk in discernment and not condemnation? This question invites listeners to reflect on their own lives and interactions with others, encouraging a shift towards grace-filled relationships that allow God’s love to lead to genuine transformation.
For more Bible Teachings, click here.
Bible Verses Referenced
Proverbs 26:4
Proverbs 26:5
Matthew 7:1
Matthew 7:6
1 Kings 3:16-28
Recommended Resources
The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard
Simply Jesus by N.T. Wright
Bear Your Name by Carmen Imes
Note: This article contains affiliate links.

Blood and Water: Echoes of Exodus in the New Testament

Blood and Water: Echoes of Exodus in the New Testament
Shabbat Shalom, everyone. Today we delve into the profound significance of Passover, not merely as a historical event, but as a narrative thread that God has woven into the Scriptures to reveal a grander story. As we approach Passover, this teaching aims to illuminate the echoes of Exodus found throughout the New Testament, highlighting Jesus, or Yeshua, as the centerpiece of this narrative, the Passover lamb who liberates us from sin and death. Let's explore how these themes unfold, starting with the unique portrayal of Jesus in the Gospel of John.
The Gospel of John: Crafting a Unique Narrative
We begin by examining John 21:25, where the Gospel of John is described as a curated account of Jesus's life, not merely a historical record, but a purposeful narrative emphasizing specific themes. John, the 'black sheep' of the Gospels as it is sometimes called, creates a film-like portrayal, intentionally highlighting Jesus as the fulfillment of the Exodus story. This Gospel doesn't just document events; it tells a story of new creation and redemption through Jesus, the true Passover lamb.
Patterns of Creation and New Creation
The Exodus story parallels the creation narrative in Genesis. Just as God divided the waters to bring forth dry land in Genesis, He did the same at the Red Sea, symbolizing a new creation for Israel. This motif of water and new creation echoes throughout the Scriptures, from Noah's flood to Israel's crossing of the Jordan River into the Promised Land. The wilderness journey is depicted as a transition into God's rest, akin to the Garden of Eden, suggesting a cycle of redemption and new beginnings.
Israel's Journey and the Prophetic Hope
Despite entering the Promised Land, Israel eventually becomes what it sought to escape, mirroring Egypt through power and oppression. King Solomon's reign, marked by military might and wealth, leads to their downfall and eventual exile. The exilic prophets, like Isaiah and Jeremiah, envision a new Exodus, not just from physical bondage but from the spiritual bondage of sin. Isaiah's imagery of a highway in the wilderness leading to God symbolizes this new pathway of redemption.
New Testament Fulfillment in Yeshua
The New Testament Gospels begin with John the Baptist in the wilderness, echoing Isaiah's prophetic voice. The Gospels, especially Matthew and John, emphasize the new Exodus through Yeshua. Matthew portrays Yeshua as a new Moses, drawing parallels to Moses’s life, while John uses Passover imagery to underscore Yeshua's role as the lamb who takes away the sins of the world. This intentional storytelling highlights the shift from old creation to new creation.
Key Takeaways and Life Applications
Recognize the recurring motif of water and new creation, signifying God's ongoing work of redemption.
Understand the Gospels as purposeful narratives that emphasize Yeshua's fulfillment of the Exodus story.
See Passover not just as a historical event, but as a living narrative of liberation from spiritual bondage.
Embrace the invitation into new creation, leaving behind the chains of sin, shame, and old creation.
Reflect on personal areas of bondage and seek the transformative freedom offered through Yeshua.
Join the greater narrative of redemption, engaging in the new creation reality in everyday life.
Biblical References
John 21:25
Exodus 14
Genesis 1
1 Kings 10:14
Isaiah 40:3
John 1
Exodus 12
Zechariah 12:10
John 19:34
John 20:22
Revelation 22
Ezekiel 37
Recommended Resources
The Bible Project by Tim Mackie
The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard
Simply Jesus by N.T. Wright
Bearing God's Name by Carmen Imes
For more Bible Teachings, click here.
Note: This article contains affiliate links.

The First Sheaf and the Empty Tomb

The First Sheaf and the Empty Tomb
Welcome to the teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship, delivered by Matthew Vander Els. Today we delve into the profound significance of Yom HaBikrim, the Feast of First Fruits. This seemingly minor festival emerges as a theological keystone, intimately connected to the resurrection of Yeshua (Jesus) and our understanding of new creation.
The Overlooked Festival
While Passover and Shavuot command the spotlight with their dramatic narratives of liberation and divine empowerment, Yom HaBikrim quietly marks a pivotal moment in the biblical calendar. In Leviticus 23, the command to present the first sheaf of barley before the Lord symbolizes the promise and sanctity of the entire harvest to come. The Hebrew word reshit, meaning "the first" or "beginning," connects this ritual to Genesis, where creation itself was initiated (Genesis 1:1).
This sermon emphasizes the alignment between the act of presenting the first sheaf and Yeshua's resurrection. Both signify the onset of a new creation, bridging the old world and the world to come, and setting a pattern for God's promise to renew all creation.
Resurrection: The Promise of New Creation
Yeshua’s resurrection, happening on the day of First Fruits, is not simply a display of divine power but a foretaste of the new creation, a down payment on the cosmic renewal that God is orchestrating. This reframes our worldview; rather than viewing resurrection solely as an escape, we see it as the beginning of the kingdom's work here on earth.
The resurrection is not just about Him; it involves all of us. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15, Yeshua is the "firstfruits" of those who have fallen asleep, indicating that His resurrection is the start of the final harvest when God’s kingdom will be fulfilled.
Living in the Rhythm of Resurrection
This teaching urges us to live as people who anticipate the full harvest. The resurrection life should permeate our daily actions, influencing how we love, forgive, and give. Our lives mirror the first sheaf, offered in trust that the full harvest of God’s kingdom is coming.
Empathy for others, as discussed, is central to this new life. Recognizing that everyone has their own struggles helps us respond with grace rather than retaliation. The idea is to love and forgive as Yeshua did, transforming our relationships and communities.
The rhythm of resurrection also involves our finances. Tithing the first of our income symbolizes trust in God's provision and participation in His kingdom work. This sacrificial giving aligns with the pattern of new creation, reinforcing our reliance on divine grace rather than self-sufficiency.
The Image of a Gardener
John’s Gospel places Yeshua's resurrection in a garden, drawing a literary and theological parallel to Eden. As the "last Adam" (1 Corinthians 15), Yeshua, the gardener, cultivates new life where the first Adam introduced death. This imagery signifies the reversal of the curse and the birth of a new Eden, where resurrection life continually grows.
In this garden, Mary mistakes Yeshua for a gardener, which is theologically profound. It affirms His role in nurturing new creation, signifying a world that will be restored and renewed. The empty tomb signals the beginning of this process, as the gardener awakens to tend and transform the soil of creation.
Practical Takeaways
Live in anticipation of the full harvest: Let the hope of resurrection guide your actions and decisions.
Embrace empathy and forgiveness: See others through the lens of grace, understanding, and love.
Participate in creation's renewal: Engage in acts of service, love, and community building as signposts of the kingdom.
Sacrificial giving: Trust in God's provision by offering your first fruits as an act of faith and alignment with His purposes.
Resist conformity: Stand firm in your faith, resisting societal pressures that conflict with kingdom values.
Conclusion
The message concludes with a powerful call to align our lives with the rhythm of resurrection, living as those who have tasted new creation and are awaiting its full realization. It’s a call to be co-gardeners with Yeshua, participating in the great harvest that has begun and will culminate in the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Bible Verses Referenced
Genesis 1:1
Leviticus 23:9
1 Corinthians 15:20
2 Corinthians 5:17
James 1:18
Recommended Resources
Surprised by Hope by N.T. Wright
The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard
For more Bible Teachings, click here.
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The Danger of Being the Temple - Ananias and Sapphira

The Danger of Being the Temple - Ananias and Sapphira
In a compelling Bible Teachings delivered at Founded in Truth Fellowship, Matthew Vander Els explored the profound significance of participating in the community of God and the serious consequences of approaching this sacred connection with anything less than complete honesty and commitment. Drawing extensively from both the Old and New Testaments, the teaching centered on the cautionary tale of Ananias and Sapphira in the book of Acts, illuminating the dangers of hypocrisy within the fellowship of believers.
The speaker began by establishing a foundational understanding of God's relationship with humanity, referencing the Old Testament and the boundaries God set for Israel to be a people set apart. These boundaries, encompassing distinctions between clean and unclean, holy and profane, were intended to honor God, even extending to practices like abstaining from pork. While some of these regulations were tied to the physical Tabernacle, they represented a commitment to honoring God's holiness. The state of being unclean, though not inherently sinful, restricted access to God's presence in the Tabernacle, acting as a separation from the intimate dwelling of the divine. Examples such as childbirth, bodily discharges, certain diseases, and contact with dead animals or bodies led to this temporary state of uncleanness.
However, as time progressed in Israelite culture, these practices, initially rooted in respect for God's presence, gradually transformed into a checklist for affirming one's identity within the Covenant. This shift intensified after the Babylonian exile and the Maccabean Revolt, when adherence to these commandments became markers of Judean identity, a way to distinguish themselves from the surrounding cultures. The speaker highlighted how Yeshua, or Jesus, strongly criticized the Pharisees for this very mindset. Their emphasis on outward displays of holiness led them to judge others based on their adherence to these self-imposed checklists, neglecting the crucial aspect of inner transformation and the heart of God. Yeshua condemned their hypocrisy, comparing them to beautiful cups filled with decay and whitewashed tombs concealing death. Turning faith into a means of self-exaltation and judgment of others, according to the teaching, amounts to idolatry, placing one's own perceived value above God's true intentions.
The teaching then transitioned to the concept of God's dwelling place throughout history. Initially, God's presence was associated with the holy mountain, Mount Sinai. This presence then moved to the Tabernacle, a tent, and later to the Temple in Jerusalem. In each case, the holiness of the location stemmed not from its physical structure but from God's dwelling within it. The New Testament introduces a radical shift in this understanding. Yeshua proclaimed that he himself was the new Temple, as seen in John chapter 2 when he spoke of destroying the temple and raising it again in three days, referring to his own body. This marked a transition where God's presence would no longer be confined to a physical building but would reside within individuals.
The speaker elaborated on this New Testament understanding, citing passages from Ephesians, 1 Peter, and 1 Corinthians. Believers are described as being built together as a spiritual house, with Christ Jesus as the chief cornerstone. Individually, the body of a believer is the temple of the Holy Spirit. This indwelling of the Holy Spirit signifies that believers have become sacred, set apart not through their own merit but because of God's presence within them. This new reality brings immense privilege but also carries significant responsibility.
To illustrate the seriousness of this new covenant relationship, the teaching focused on the story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts chapter 5. The early Christian community was characterized by a remarkable unity and generosity, with believers sharing their possessions and ensuring that no one was in need. Barnabas is presented as a positive example, selling a field and laying the proceeds at the apostles' feet. In stark contrast, Ananias and Sapphira sold a piece of property but secretly kept back a portion of the money for themselves while presenting the rest as the full amount. Peter, recognizing their deceit, confronted Ananias, stating that he had not lied to humans but to God, to the Holy Spirit. The immediate and severe consequence was Ananias's death, followed shortly by Sapphira's when she corroborated the lie.
The speaker emphasized that the harshness of this event underscores a crucial point: participating in the community of God is not a trivial matter. With the gift of the Holy Spirit comes the ability to manifest God's presence in the world, demanding reverence, respect, and honor. Ananias and Sapphira's temptation was to appear loyal to the community and receive honor while also being deceptive for their own gain. Their sin was not merely withholding money but bringing a divisive and deceptive spirit into the holy community. It was a form of partial commitment, offering some to God and some to their own selfish desires. This act devalued the significance of being part of God's dwelling place and the power of the Holy Spirit within them.
Drawing a parallel to the Old Testament, the speaker referenced the story of Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, who offered unauthorized or "strange" fire before the Lord in Leviticus chapter 10. Their transgression, though not explicitly detailed, appeared to be an encroachment on the holiness of God's dwelling place, resulting in their immediate death. Just as Nadab and Abihu approached God with incorrect protocol, Ananias and Sapphira approached the new temple, the community of believers indwelt by the Holy Spirit, with deception and partial loyalty.
The teaching highlighted that being the temple of God is an incredible privilege and opportunity to participate in God's plan. However, there is a danger in attempting to manipulate this sacred reality or treat it as commonplace. True participation requires a transformed heart, evident not in outward displays of a checklist of rules but in how one responds to others, the extent of their generosity, forgiveness, and mercy. The world often operates on principles of withholding forgiveness, limiting grace, and prioritizing selfish gain. In contrast, followers of Yeshua are called to embody the character of God, offering forgiveness, extending grace, showing mercy, and practicing radical generosity.
Application for Everyday Life:
Examine your motives: Regularly assess your reasons for participating in your faith community. Are they rooted in genuine love for God and others, or are there elements of self-seeking or a desire for outward approval?
Embrace wholehearted commitment: Avoid partial loyalty in your relationship with God and your faith community. Strive for complete dedication and honesty in your actions and intentions.
Practice radical generosity: Look for opportunities to give generously of your time, resources, and talents, following the example of the early believers.
Extend forgiveness and mercy: In your interactions with others, even those who may seem undeserving, choose to offer forgiveness and mercy, mirroring God's character.
Cultivate inner transformation: Focus on the condition of your heart rather than solely on outward religious practices. Allow God's Spirit to transform you from the inside out.
Recognize the sacredness of the community: Understand that as believers indwelt by the Holy Spirit, you and your faith community are the temple of God, deserving of reverence and respect.
Be honest and transparent: Avoid hypocrisy and deception in your dealings with God and your fellow believers.
Bear the weight of responsibility: Recognize the privilege and responsibility that comes with being a dwelling place for God's Spirit and actively participate in God's mission in the world.
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Two Davids in the Bible

Two Davids in the Bible
Today's Bible teaching at Founded in Truth Fellowship explores the fascinating topic of how King David is presented in different parts of the Bible, drawing a parallel to the diverse artistic portrayals of David during the Renaissance period. The speaker, potentially Matthew Vander Els, begins by highlighting the human tendency to experience bittersweet feelings, similar to parents missing their children even after enjoying a moment of quiet. He then welcomes everyone and establishes the church's focus on unity in Yeshua and their appreciation for the entire Bible, including the Torah.
To provide context for understanding the different portrayals of David, the teaching delves into the Renaissance, a transformative era in Europe that began in Italy around the 14th century. This period marked a significant shift as humanity emerged from the Middle Ages, often referred to as the Dark Ages, which lasted from approximately 500 A.D. to the 1300s and was characterized by hardship and primitive conditions. The Renaissance brought about a resurgence of new ideas, creativity, and a flourishing of art and education. This era saw the rise of humanism, emphasizing the potential for human improvement and growth. Notably, the Renaissance witnessed a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman art, including depictions of the human form, which had been largely absent for centuries.
The speaker emphasizes the profound impact of the Renaissance, highlighting the emergence of brilliant minds like Leonardo da Vinci, Galileo, Copernicus, William Shakespeare, Donatello, Raphael, and Michelangelo. This period also spurred significant inventions such as the printing press, eyeglasses, the telescope, the microscope, the steam engine, and the pencil. A pivotal development was the inspiration it provided to figures like William Tyndale, who fought to translate the Bible into English, making it accessible to a wider audience and challenging the church's exclusive control over the scriptures. Tyndale's tenacity, even in the face of being burned at the stake for his efforts, exemplifies the spirit of this awakening era.
The birthplace of the Renaissance was Florence, a wealthy Italian city that attracted artists, inventors, and politicians. The Medici family, who ruled Florence for over 60 years, were crucial patrons of this movement, commissioning numerous artworks and supporting artists like Donatello. Although Florence was technically a republic, the Medici's wealth and influence allowed them to effectively control the city. Cosimo de Medici commissioned Donatello to create two statues of David. The first, a modest marble statue, was placed at the town hall as David was a symbol of Florence. The second, a bronze statue, was placed in the center of Cosimo's palace plaza, which also served as the bank's headquarters, making it a prominent public display.
Donatello's bronze David was revolutionary for being the first nude sculpture since antiquity. This depiction showed a young, almost androgynous David, unclothed except for a hat and boots, holding Goliath's sword with Goliath's severed head under his foot. The helmet of Goliath featured Eros riding a chariot, and a feather touched David's thigh in a way that some found suggestive. This statue was controversial, seen by some as a symbol of power, greed, arrogance, and political domination by the Medici, essentially using the symbol of Florence for their own propaganda.
Later, Michelangelo created his famous statue of David, a colossal 13-foot tall marble sculpture with an enlarged right hand. Unlike Donatello's David, Michelangelo's depicts David not after defeating Goliath but as he stands fearlessly facing the giant, sling over his shoulder, ready to fight. Initially intended for the top of the Florence cathedral, it was eventually placed in the city square. This placement coincided with the exile of the Medici family in 1504, leading some to interpret it as a symbol of Republican resistance against Medici rule, with David facing towards Rome. Even after the Medici's return, the statue remained, its symbolism adaptable to whoever held power. These two Renaissance Davids illustrate how the same figure can be portrayed differently to serve various political and cultural messages.
The teaching then transitions to the Bible, revealing that King David is also portrayed in two distinct ways in the Old Testament. The books of 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings were written before the Babylonian exile (around 586 BCE), while 1 and 2 Chronicles were written after the exile (after 538 BCE). The Babylonian exile was a pivotal event in Israel's history, where the southern kingdom of Judah was conquered by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, the temple was destroyed, and the people were taken into captivity for 70 years. This period of exile led to the rise of numerous prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel, who delivered messages of repentance and hope, assuring the people that God had not abandoned them and would eventually regather them.
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Application for Everyday Life
Acknowledge your own complexity: Like the David in Samuel, we are all capable of both great good and significant mistakes. Recognizing this duality fosters humility and a need for God's grace.
Embrace God's forgiveness: David's story, in both Samuel and Chronicles, ultimately points to God's willingness to forgive and restore those who turn to Him.
Find hope in restoration: Just as the post-exilic Israelites found hope in the message of Chronicles, we too can find hope in God's promises of renewal and restoration in our lives, even after difficult times.
Focus on your potential in God: Similar to the idealized portrayal of David in Chronicles, we can strive to live according to our potential in God, focusing on the positive impact we can have and the good we can do.
Reflect on your life with intention: The tradition of the 40 days of Teshuvah encourages intentional reflection, similar to how the authors of Samuel and Chronicles reflected on David's life with different purposes. This practice helps us identify areas for growth and repentance.
Seek God's guidance in your endeavors: Just as David received plans for the temple from God's Spirit in Chronicles, we should seek God's wisdom and guidance in our own lives and projects.
Remember God's enduring promises: The ending of Chronicles reminds us of God's faithfulness to His promises. We can hold onto God's promises in our lives, even when facing challenges.
References
Bible Verses
Exodus 25:9
Deuteronomy (implied reference to a prophet like Moses)
1 Kings 10
1 Chronicles 28:11-19
2 Chronicles 7:13-14
2 Chronicles 36:22-23
Luke 3
Matthew 1
Books and Resources
The Bible
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5 Mistakes When Judging Someone Biblically

5 Mistakes When Judging Someone Biblically
Introduction
Matthew Vander Els from Founded In Truth Fellowship introduces a Bible teaching focused on the complexities of judging others from a biblical perspective. The teaching begins with a personal anecdote about his family getting sick and a reflection on his late grandmother, Cynthia, and her unconventional choice of colorful masks, highlighting how easily we can form assumptions without knowing the full story. The core message of this teaching revolves around the idea that while assessments and evaluations might be necessary in certain contexts, making judgmental assumptions and condemning others is a dangerous habit for believers. The speaker emphasizes that Yeshua (Jesus) had strong words against judgmental people, particularly the religious leaders of his time. This teaching will explore five common mistakes people make when judging others biblically.
The Problem with Judgment
The teaching highlights our human tendency to not only make assumptions about others but also to build entire narratives based on these assumptions, often leading to criticism and judgment. This behavior often stems from a desire to elevate our own status by lowering others. The scripture from Matthew 7:1-5 is central to this discussion, where Yeshua commands, "Judge not, that you be not judged". He uses the powerful imagery of a speck in someone else's eye compared to a log in our own to illustrate the hypocrisy of pointing out others' flaws while ignoring our own significant shortcomings. Our tendency towards judgment echoes the temptation in the Garden of Eden, where humanity sought to discern good and evil autonomously from God, positioning themselves as the ultimate arbiters of right and wrong. This act of judgment devalues others and implies a lack of trust in God's ultimate judgment.
Navigating Judgment Biblically
While we are cautioned against judgmental condemnation, the teaching acknowledges that evaluation and discernment are sometimes necessary. For instance, we need to be able to identify false prophets. Paul also makes stern judgments within the church in situations involving blatant sin. The key distinction lies in the motivation and the spirit behind our assessments. Biblical judgment, when necessary, should be rooted in love, seek reconciliation and healing, and aim for the betterment of others, rather than destruction or condemnation. The love of Yeshua should guide any form of judgment.
Five Mistakes When Judging Someone Biblically
Mistake Number 5: Failing to Realize How Terrible We Are at Judging People
One of the most significant mistakes we make is underestimating our own inability to judge others accurately. We often judge from a place of ignorance, lacking complete information about someone's life, experiences, and motivations. A personal story is shared about the speaker's assumptions about a man he encountered at a Neil deGrasse Tyson event. Based on the man's appearance and the language he was speaking, the speaker quickly fabricated a stereotypical narrative about him being a poor, recent immigrant. However, upon speaking with the man, he discovered he was a highly educated chemical engineer from Ethiopia who had lived in the US for decades. This humbling experience illustrates how easily our assumptions can be wrong and how we tend to project our own biases and perspectives onto others. Even when someone appears to be a "sinner," we still lack the full picture of their struggles, their past, and the reasons behind their actions.
Mistake Number 4: Forgetting That We Don't Have to Have an Opinion About Everything and Everyone
Another common mistake is feeling compelled to form and express an opinion on every matter and every person we encounter. We are not required to have a judgment on every situation or individual. The Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius is quoted, emphasizing that we always have the option of having no opinion and that we shouldn't trouble our souls over things we can't control. We don't need to nitpick and constantly find fault with others. The world, influenced by Satan, often pushes us to take sides and view those who disagree as enemies. However, we don't have to participate in every debate or offer our unsolicited opinions. Random people we see are not asking for our judgment. We are not entitled to have people as an audience for our opinions. Choosing not to judge unnecessarily is a sign of maturity and helps us maintain our own well-being.
Mistake Number 3: Forgetting Who We Are and Who We Are Not
We often forget our own limitations and assume a role that belongs to God alone. James 4:11-12 warns against slandering and judging our brothers and sisters. When we judge others, we speak against the law (likely the Royal Law of loving our neighbor as ourselves) and sit in judgment upon it. There is only one Lawgiver and one Judge, which is God. Who are we to judge our neighbors? When we make negative interpersonal judgments, we are essentially taking the position of God, building a metaphorical Tower of Babel to exalt ourselves. It is not our job to constantly criticize and condemn others in non-destructive situations. Every individual has immeasurable value in the eyes of God, equal to our own. If someone offends us, we should seek safety, but not use revenge as an excuse for wicked judgments, as God will ultimately be the judge.
Mistake Number 2: Ignoring the Rotting Corpses in Our Closets
A harsh but necessary truth is that we often fail to acknowledge our own significant flaws while being quick to judge others. Matthew 7:3-5 vividly portrays this with the image of a log in our own eye compared to a speck in our brother's eye. Yeshua uses exaggerated imagery to highlight the delusional reality we live in when we judge others while being blind to our own sins. The point of this metaphor is to bring us back to reality. While others may indeed have issues ("a speck in their eye"), we must first focus on our own shortcomings ("the log in our own eye"). We cannot genuinely help someone with their flaws if we haven't addressed our own unresolved sins. Proceeding to judge others without dealing with our own "log" makes us hypocrites.
Mistake Number 1: Forgetting We Pull the Cord on Our Own Guillotine
The most critical mistake we make when judging others is that our judgment of others ultimately reflects and determines the judgment we will face ourselves. Romans 2:1-10 is cited to emphasize this point. When we judge others, we condemn ourselves because we, the judges, often do the same things. By judging others harshly, absent of humility, patience, kindness, mercy, grace, and love, we essentially invite the same fate upon ourselves. We are "pulling the cord" on our own guillotine because we have taken God's seat as judge and have despised His kindness, restraint, patience, and mercy towards us, failing to recognize that His kindness is intended to lead us to repentance.
Application for Everyday Life
Practice self-awareness: Recognize your tendency to make quick judgments and assumptions about others.
Seek more information: Before forming an opinion, try to understand the full context of a situation and the other person's perspective.
Grant the freedom of "no opinion": Remind yourself that you are not obligated to have a strong stance on every issue or person.
Focus on your own growth: Instead of criticizing others, dedicate your energy to addressing your own shortcomings.
Lead with compassion and love: When you must address an issue, let your motivation be rooted in love.
Pray for those you are tempted to judge: Use prayer as a litmus test for your true intentions.
Remember God's role as the ultimate Judge: Trust that God will ultimately bring justice.
Examine your own heart: Reflect on whether you are extending the same kindness, patience, and grace to others that you desire from God.
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When Jesus Doesn’t Answer Questions

When Jesus Doesn’t Answer Questions
In a teaching delivered at Founded in Truth Fellowship, the focus is on the intriguing way Jesus, or Yeshua as referred to, often responded to inquiries. Instead of providing straightforward answers, Jesus frequently posed questions in return. This approach wasn't due to a lack of knowledge; the speaker asserts that Yeshua, being in constant communion with God, possessed all the answers. Rather, this method served a deeper purpose, inviting his listeners, then and now, to engage in deeper reflection and cultivate understanding rather than simply receiving information.
The teaching highlights that questions are powerful tools for education and learning. While Google can provide instant answers, true understanding requires processing information, grappling with concepts, and explaining them in one's own words. By asking questions, Jesus encouraged critical thinking and moved people beyond surface-level knowledge. This method allowed individuals to develop their own wisdom and navigate complex situations effectively. As the speaker notes, having the answer is different from understanding the answer; understanding enables one to solve other problems and navigate future inquiries more adeptly.
The speaker, likely Matthew Vander Els, illustrates this point by examining various instances in the Gospels. Jesus asked approximately 183 questions and only directly answered around eight, or perhaps as few as three, depending on interpretation. Conversely, he himself asked 307 questions. This significant disparity underscores the importance Jesus placed on the process of inquiry and contemplation.
One early example cited is from Luke chapter 2, where a young Yeshua, at the age of twelve, is found in the temple engaging the teachers, not just answering but also asking questions, to the amazement of those present. When his concerned parents, Mary and Joseph, find him after searching for three days and ask why he treated them this way, Yeshua responds with questions of his own: "Why were you searching for me? Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?" This early interaction sets a pattern for his ministry.
The teaching emphasizes that Jesus’ questions often challenged preconceived notions and invited deeper reflection on his message, what it meant to be his follower, to love God, and to have right relationships with others. His questions weren't always seeking information; sometimes they were rhetorical, designed to provoke thought or make a point. Examples include "Can any of you, by worrying, add a single hour to your span of life?"
Furthermore, Jesus' questions served to move beyond stereotypes and encourage seeing individuals as human beings with inherent value. The story in Luke chapter 7 of the woman anointing Jesus' feet at the Pharisee Simon's dinner illustrates this. Simon judges the woman based on her known sinful lifestyle. Jesus, aware of Simon's thoughts, poses a question about two debtors who are forgiven different amounts and then asks Simon, "Do you see this woman?" The speaker explains that this question wasn't about physical sight, but about truly seeing her as a person beyond the stereotype, someone capable of deep love and gratitude due to the forgiveness she had received.
Another powerful example is found in Mark chapter 10 with the blind man Bartimaeus calling out to Jesus. Despite the crowd's attempts to silence him, Jesus asks, "What do you want me to do for you?" Although the man's need seemed obvious, Jesus' question demonstrated humility and respect, acknowledging that the man might have deeper needs beyond the apparent one. This highlights the importance of asking and listening rather than presuming what others need.
In Luke chapter 10, a teacher of the law asks Jesus, "What must I do to have eternal life?" Instead of a direct answer, Jesus directs him back to the scriptures: "What does the Torah say? How do you interpret what the Torah says?" When the teacher responds correctly about loving God and neighbor, he then seeks to justify himself by asking, "And who is my neighbor?" Jesus responds with the parable of the Good Samaritan, challenging the teacher's limited definition of neighbor and emphasizing that mercy transcends social and cultural boundaries. Jesus concludes by asking, "Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?"
The teaching extends to the concept of loving one's enemies, as presented in Luke's Sermon on the Plain. Jesus poses rhetorical questions about the merit of loving only those who love you or doing good only to those who do good to you, noting that even sinners do that. Instead, he calls for a higher standard: love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting anything in return, reflecting God's own kindness and mercy towards the ungrateful and wicked.
The speaker applies these principles to contemporary issues, such as societal divisions, political polarization, and responses to events like the emergence of new health concerns. The emphasis is on resisting the urge to create "us versus them" mentalities and instead approaching others with humility, grace, and a willingness to understand their humanity. Just as Jesus asked, "Do you see this woman?" or "What do you want me to do for you?", believers are called to ask similar questions, truly seeing and seeking to understand and help those around them, even those with whom they disagree or who are different.
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Application for Everyday Life
Cultivate Curiosity: Instead of always seeking quick answers, embrace the power of asking questions to gain deeper understanding in conversations and when learning new things.
Practice Empathetic Inquiry: When interacting with others, especially those with different viewpoints, ask open-ended questions to understand their perspectives and motivations rather than immediately judging or offering solutions.
Challenge Stereotypes: Recognize your own biases and assumptions, and actively seek to see individuals beyond labels and stereotypes, acknowledging their shared humanity. Ask yourself, "Do I truly see this person?"
Extend Compassion and Mercy: Reflect on the extent of forgiveness and grace you have received and let that inform how you treat others, even those you might consider your "enemies."
Respond with Humility: When faced with conflict or opportunities to help, approach others with a servant's heart, asking "What can I do for you?" rather than presuming to know their needs.
Prioritize Understanding Over Agreement: In discussions and debates, aim to understand the other person's perspective, even if you don't agree with it. This aligns with Jesus' method of encouraging reflection.
Reflect on Your Motivations: Regularly ask yourself, "What am I truly looking for?" in your pursuits and relationships, ensuring that your focus is aligned with the values of Jesus.
Resources Mentioned
Jesus is the Question: The 307 Questions Jesus Asked and the Three He Answered by Martin Copenhaver
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