Founded in Truth Fellowship - Bible Teachings and Sermons

Collide - The Heart People

Collide - The Heart People
Introduction to a New Teaching Series
Matthew Vander Els from Founded In Truth Fellowship introduces a new teaching series titled "Collide." This series emerges from a previous discussion on "God's Mission," which explored the overarching narrative of the Bible as God's plan to restore humanity and bring complete peace to the world. The "Collide" series will delve into specific events within Yeshua's ministry, starting with a significant and well-documented event known as the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapter 5.
The Setting: A Greater Moses on the Mountain
The teaching begins by examining the scene of the Sermon on the Mount. Instead of simply stating that Yeshua went up a mountain, Matthew emphasizes that Matthew's Gospel uses a definite article in Greek ("the mountain"), intentionally evoking the image of Mount Sinai. Just as Moses ascended Mount Sinai to receive and deliver the Torah from God, Yeshua, referred to as a greater Moses, goes up "the mountain" to deliver a more profound message from God. This sets the stage for understanding the Sermon on the Mount not just as a collection of teachings, but as a new and deeper instruction from God, much like the Torah was for the Israelites.
The Audience: The Blessed Outcasts
Yeshua's choice of disciples was unconventional. Unlike other rabbis who sought out the most qualified individuals with impressive resumes and academic achievements, Yeshua chose ordinary people, such as fishermen, and even those considered outcasts, like Matthew, a tax collector. To these individuals, and to the crowds that gathered, Yeshua began proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God, stating that God's reign is now present and breaking into the world.
The first part of the Sermon on the Mount consists of the Beatitudes. The speaker clarifies that the word often translated as "blessed" (Greek: makarios) signifies a state of existence or a status bestowed by God within His kingdom, rather than merely earthly possessions or good fortune. Yeshua directs these statements towards the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and those who are persecuted. He declares that theirs is the kingdom of heaven, that they will be comforted, inherit the earth, be satisfied, receive mercy, see God, be called sons of God, and possess the kingdom of heaven. This radical message inverts worldly values and includes those whom society often overlooks.
Heaven and Earth: An Interlocked Reality
The teaching addresses the common misconception of heaven and earth as separate and distant realms. Instead, the biblical understanding portrays them as originally interlocked and intended to be one, with heaven being the place where God's dominion is fully manifest. Humanity's actions, symbolized by the story of Eden, led to a separation. Yeshua's mission is to bring heaven back to earth, and he invites his followers to participate in this mission. Those who experience hardship and are considered outcasts are, in fact, blessed and have access to heaven now.
Following Yeshua means living differently from the world's standards, even if it leads to collision with those standards. Just as driving on the wrong side of the road would cause chaos, followers of Yeshua are called to stand against worldly norms that contradict God's ways. They are to be ambassadors of a heavenly reality that is not yet fully seen, living out its principles of peace and forgiveness even in a world that operates differently.
Salt and Light: The Role of Believers
Yeshua declares his followers to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. The analogy of salt, if it loses its taste, becomes worthless. However, the speaker clarifies through a Jewish rabbinic wordplay that salt (sodium chloride) does not actually lose its saltiness. The phrase "lost its taste" is interpreted as meaning to become stupid or to lack value. Therefore, Yeshua is conveying that a professed disciple who lacks commitment and passion is like tasteless salt—useless and to be cast out.
Similarly, believers are the light of the world, like a city set on a hill that cannot be hidden, or a lamp placed on a stand to give light to the whole house. Their good works should shine before others so that they may see and give glory to God. Believers are meant to reflect God's image and reign into the world through their actions.
Fulfilling the Law and the Prophets: A Matter of the Heart
A crucial point in the Sermon on the Mount is Yeshua's statement: "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." In the first century, there were various interpretations of the Torah, and Yeshua's teachings provided a new and deeper understanding. He clarifies that his purpose is not to diminish the Word of God but to show how to properly fulfill it, revealing its heart and how it is meant to be written on people's hearts.
Application for Everyday Life
Examine your heart: Regularly assess your thoughts and feelings towards others. Do you harbor anger, resentment, or disdain?
Pursue reconciliation: If you are aware of having offended someone or of someone having something against you, take the initiative to seek reconciliation before engaging in worship or prayer.
Practice forgiveness: Extend forgiveness to those who have wronged you, mirroring God's forgiveness in the New Covenant.
Love your neighbor: Actively seek to love and care for those around you, even those who are different or difficult.
Live differently from the world: Be aware of worldly values and norms that contradict God's kingdom principles. Choose to live according to God's ways, even if it means going against the flow.
Reflect God's light: Let your good deeds and character shine in such a way that others may see the greatness of God and give Him glory.
Commit to God's mission: Recognize that you are called to participate in bringing heaven to earth by embodying God's love and justice in your daily life.
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References
Bible Verses
Matthew 5:1
Matthew 5:2
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:4
Matthew 5:5
Books and Resources Mentioned
IVP Bible Background Commentary
Talmud (specifically Tractate Beccarot 8b)
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God as Mother - Feminine Metaphors

God as Mother - Feminine Metaphors
In this insightful Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship, delivered by Matthew Vander Els, the central theme revolves around understanding the multifaceted nature of God through the lens of both masculine and feminine metaphors present in the Scriptures. The speaker begins by sharing his reflection on choosing a graphic of a mother and child to represent God, emphasizing that this might be an unconventional or even intimidating idea for some. However, the core message is that God is far greater than our limited human understanding and cannot be confined to any single definition or "box."
The teaching highlights that the Bible uses a rich tapestry of imagery to portray God's relentless love, passion, and mercy for creation. We are familiar with descriptions of God as a shepherd who cares for, protects, and nurtures His flock, even being present in the messy realities of new beginnings. This imagery conveys tenderness and close personal care. God is also described as a king, representing wisdom, strategic leadership, honor, and royalty. Furthermore, the Bible refers to God as a rock, symbolizing stability, strength, immovability, and a foundation. He is also called a healer, evoking images of comfort, gentleness, and the tending of wounds, often associated with a nurturing touch. The depiction of God as a warrior signifies His willingness to fight for His people. And the familiar term Father paints a picture of a leader, provider, and giver of inheritance.
The speaker then poses a crucial question: Why do we so rarely think of God as our mother? He acknowledges that for some, this might even sound like blasphemy, associating such an idea with paganism. However, he counters this by pointing out that biblical authors themselves employed feminine imagery to describe God. If we limit God to only one of these descriptions, we create a diminished, "small God" that fails to capture the vastness of His being.
It is crucial to understand that these descriptions are metaphors, not literal physical representations of God. Deuteronomy 4:15 reminds us that we saw no form of God, and therefore should not create idols or images in any shape, male or female. Jesus himself stated in John 4:24 that God is spirit, transcending biological gender limitations. Yet, despite not having a physical form or being confined by gender, God is a person who deeply desires relationship with humanity.
Genesis 1:27 states that God created humankind in His own image, both male and female. This suggests that both genders uniquely reflect different aspects of God's character, righteousness, mercy, compassion, and identity. The speaker uses the powerful analogy of a mother's unwavering and constant concern for her children, regardless of their behavior. This primal impulse to protect and nurture is universal.
Isaiah 66:13 provides a profound image: "As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you". This verse, spoken by God, reveals His capacity to provide the unique and deep comfort associated with a mother's embrace. This is particularly relevant in times of distress, anxiety, shame, or when we feel like we have failed. Just as a child instinctively seeks the comfort of their mother, our God offers a similar embrace of safety and peace.
Isaiah 42:14 further illustrates this with God declaring, "Like a woman in childbirth, I cry out, I gasp and pant". This intense imagery portrays God's overwhelming passion and energy in bringing His children home, overcoming any obstacle in their path. Similarly, Hosea 13:8 uses the fierce metaphor of a "bear robbed of her cubs" to describe God's protective and passionate response to anything that separates Him from His children. While a "papa bear" might also be protective, the "wrath of a mother for her young" is often perceived as all-consuming and utterly determined. The speaker uses a vivid illustration of a father and mother reacting to a house fire to highlight this difference in instinctive, reckless love for their children.
The story of the speaker's mother breaking a window to protect him as a child demonstrates this powerful, instinctive maternal love. Exodus 33:18-19 highlights God's compassion and mercy, stating, "I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion". The Hebrew word for compassion, "raham", is closely related to the word for "womb" (rahim), signifying the ultimate environment of all-giving love, nurturing, and security. This connection suggests that God's compassion is inherently "womb-like."
Hosea 11:3-4 speaks of God teaching Ephraim to walk, lifting them up, and feeding them, further illustrating tender, parental care. Even early church fathers like Clement of Alexandria spoke of God having breasts from which believers receive spiritual nourishment. However, over time, feminine attributes of God were often minimized. Job 38:28-29 poses questions like, "Does the rain have a father? Who fathers the drops of dew? From whose womb comes the ice? Who gives birth to the frost from the heavens?" This rhetorical questioning uses both masculine and feminine imagery to emphasize God's role as the ultimate creator and source of all things, beyond human gender constructs.
Jesus himself, in Matthew 23:37, uses a feminine metaphor, lamenting, "How often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing". This vulnerable image portrays Jesus' desire to nurture, protect, and keep His followers safe, echoing Psalm 36:7 and Psalm 17:8, which speak of taking refuge under God's wings and being kept as the apple of His eye.
Therefore, the teaching concludes that God is not only Father, but also embodies maternal qualities of caretaker, defender, healer, and provider. Limiting God to only masculine or only feminine traits creates a distorted and incomplete picture. For those who may have lacked a nurturing maternal figure in their lives, God offers that very comfort, security, and love. Psalm 131 beautifully describes a soul calmed and quieted like a weaned child with its mother, finding contentment and security in her presence. Our relationship with God should not solely be about requests or demands, but also about simply being in His presence, finding peace and contentment. Just as a mother yearns for her child to depend on her, God desires us to run into His arms, trusting fully in His care.
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Application for Everyday Life
Seek Comfort in God's Maternal Embrace: When feeling hurt, ashamed, or overwhelmed, remember that God offers a comforting embrace like a mother holds her child. Turn to Him for solace and security.
Trust in God's Protective Instinct: Just as a mother fiercely protects her children, God is relentless in His pursuit and protection of those who belong to Him. Trust in His unwavering protection in the face of challenges.
Experience God's Nurturing Care: Recognize God's tender and nurturing care in your life, similar to how a mother provides for and guides her young. Allow Him to nourish you spiritually and emotionally.
Find Peace in God's Presence: Cultivate moments of simply being in God's presence, like a contented child resting with its mother, without always needing to ask for something. Find peace and security in His nearness.
References
Deuteronomy 4:15 - Biblehub.com
Matthew 23:37 - Biblehub.com
Books and Resources Mentioned
The Bible by Various Authors
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God’s Mission - The Temple

God's Mission - The Temple
In this Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship, Matthew Vander Els explores the concept of the temple in relation to God's mission throughout history. The teaching emphasizes that God's desire has always been to have His reign, defined by His mercy, justice, forgiveness, love, and presence, felt and expanded throughout His creation. This mission, initially given to mankind in the Garden of Eden, was for humanity to be vessels through whom God ruled His creation. However, mankind rejected this vocation, leading to sin and separation from God.
Yeshua: The True Temple and the Beginning of New Creation
To address this separation, God sent Yeshua, the true image-bearer, king, and Son of God. Yeshua demonstrated what it looks like to allow God to reign through a human being by healing, forgiving, and ultimately sacrificing himself on the cross. Through His death and resurrection, Yeshua conquered sin and death, offering the possibility of victory to those who follow Him and submit themselves as vessels to God. This is the gospel, the core of Christian faith. In Yeshua, God's rule and presence returned to earth, birthing a new creation.
The Significance of the Physical Temple
The teaching then transitions to the idea of the temple. In the ancient world, temples symbolized a real connection between the divine and humanity, housing the spirit of a particular god so that people could commune with the divine. The temple was seen as the place where heaven met earth, where the divine intermingled with humanity. The speaker uses the analogy of a bathroom as a sacred space with specific protocols to illustrate the concept of a temple being reserved for sacred purposes. In the Old Testament, the temple in Jerusalem, built and rebuilt over centuries, was the central place for Israelite culture, community, fellowship, and worship. It was symbolic of Eden, the Garden, representing a model of God's good world where God and humanity could meet, and God's reign would be present. Unclean things and divisions from God were not meant to enter this sacred space. Even Solomon recognized that the physical temple could not contain God's fullness, suggesting its purpose was to be a centerpiece for Israel's vocation to spread God's presence to all nations.
Believers as the Temple of the Holy Spirit
The New Testament introduces a significant shift in understanding the temple. After Yeshua's resurrection, the assertion is made that believers themselves, both individually and as a fellowship (church), are the temple, the place where God's Spirit dwells. Paul's letters, particularly 1 Corinthians and Ephesians, emphasize this concept. In 1 Corinthians 3, Paul addresses divisions within the Corinthian church, where members were favoring certain teachers over others. Paul rebukes this behavior, stating, "**Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple**." He uses a demonstration to illustrate how division within the fellowship destroys God's spiritual temple. Paul stresses that their allegiance should be to Yeshua alone, not to individual teachers or specific theological viewpoints that cause division.
Furthermore, in 1 Corinthians 6, Paul addresses issues of sexual immorality within the church, using the same imagery of believers as God's temple. He argues that since believers' bodies are members of Christ and temples of the Holy Spirit, engaging in sexual immorality defiles God's sacred space. He connects this defilement to other behaviors like greed, thievery, drunkenness, and abusiveness. Paul also addresses the issue of racism in the church in Ephesus, explaining that in Christ, all believers, regardless of ethnicity or background, are part of God's temple, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone. He emphasizes that there is only one seed in Christ, making ethnic or DNA-based distinctions irrelevant in God's kingdom.
Yeshua as the Dwelling Place of God
The teaching highlights John's Gospel, where John presents Yeshua as the new creation and the Word (Logos) who became flesh and **dwelt (skainoo) among us**, a Greek word signifying dwelling in a tent or tabernacle. This is the same word used in Revelation 21:3 to describe God's dwelling among His people. John emphasizes that Yeshua himself is the sacred space where God and humanity meet in harmony. When Yeshua cleansed the temple in John 2, He declared, "**Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up**," referring to the temple of His body and His resurrection. Thus, the true temple, the place of perfect relationship with God, is found in Yeshua. After His resurrection, Yeshua sent the Holy Spirit to His followers, the same Spirit that resided in Him. By receiving the Holy Spirit through loyalty to Yeshua, believers become part of this temple, members of Christ's body.
Living as the Temple: Practical Applications
Recognize Your Identity: Understand that if you follow Yeshua and have His Spirit, you are part of God's temple, a sacred space.
Maintain Unity: Avoid divisiveness and selfish agendas within the Christian community. Treat fellow believers as essential parts of the same temple.
Live a Holy Life: Recognize that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit and refrain from behaviors that defile this sacred space, such as sexual immorality, greed, and abuse.
Embrace Inclusivity: Reject discrimination and prejudice based on ethnicity, background, or any other worldly distinction. In Christ, all believers are equal parts of God's temple.
Focus on God's Mission: Participate in God's mission for His reign to increase and spread throughout the world, rather than seeking to create exclusive or judgmental groups.
Seek Personal Transformation: Allow God to reveal and change the unclean areas in your life that hinder His presence in your sacred space.
Engage in Community: Recognize the church as a sacred space where healing, reconciliation, forgiveness, mercy, and joy should be evident.
Be a Visible Manifestation: Live in a way that reflects God's Spirit to the world, free from distractions like fear, anxiety, addictions, and selfish pursuits.
To find more Bible Teachings, click the link.
References
Genesis 1-2
Genesis 3
1 Kings 6-8
1 Kings 9
Isaiah 66
Jeremiah 7
John 1:14
John 2:13-22
Acts 2
Books and Resources Mentioned
The Bible by Various Authors
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New Genesis - God’s Mission

New Genesis - God’s Mission
Exploring God's Unfolding Story of Redemption
This Bible teaching from Founded In Truth Fellowship, presented by Matthew Vander Els, delves into the comprehensive mission of God as it unfolds throughout scripture, culminating in the concept of a new creation, or a "New Genesis." The message encourages listeners to see the Bible not as a collection of isolated stories but as a unified narrative driven by God's desire for relationship and the restoration of His good creation.
The teaching begins by highlighting the inherent human desire for community, truth, love, and worship. It emphasizes that understanding God's mission requires looking beyond individual biblical books and recognizing the interconnectedness of the entire story. The concept of a "New Genesis" is introduced as a significant aspect of this overarching mission, a promise that traces back to the very beginning.
The speaker draws attention to Paul's letters to the Corinthians, specifically 2 Corinthians 5:14-21, where the gospel is summarized as the mission of reconciliation. Paul emphasizes that because Christ died for all, those who live should no longer live for themselves but for Him. He states that if anyone is in Christ, a new creation has come; the old has gone, and the new is here. This reconciliation is from God through Christ, who gave believers the ministry of reconciliation, urging them to be reconciled to God as Christ's ambassadors.
To understand this "new creation," the teaching revisits the original creation account in Genesis. God created a good creation and placed humanity, as His image-bearers, in the Garden of Eden, described as a type of sanctuary filled with God's presence, a first temple. The speaker points out subtle temple language within the creation account, such as God walking in the cool of the day. This imagery suggests God's intimate presence among His people, a connection echoed in later scriptures where God walks in His tabernacle. The Garden is further described through the lens of prophets like Ezekiel as the garden of God and the mountain of God, reinforcing its sacred nature.
The role of humanity in this original creation was to cultivate the garden and reign as kings through God's authority. Being created in God's image meant reflecting His authority and extending His sacred space throughout the earth. Just as ancient Near Eastern kings were seen as the image-bearers of their gods, mankind was created to be God's icon, launching His presence into the world. The command to be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it was a mission to increase God's image-bearers and expand the boundaries of Eden.
However, this good creation was marred by the entrance of the serpent, representing cunningness and negative forces. The serpent deceived Eve, leading to the fall of mankind. Instead of subduing the serpent, mankind was subdued, choosing autonomy from God and corrupting God's image within themselves. This fall resulted in exile from God's presence and a distorted human nature.
The narrative continues through the Old Testament, highlighting God's persistent mission despite humanity's failures. The flood in Noah's time was a form of recreation, yet sin continued. God then called Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, reiterating the same mission to be fruitful, multiply, and be a blessing to all nations. Israel, as Jacob's descendants, was chosen to be a nation of priests, mediating between God and the world, meant to reconcile all nations and be a light shining God's kingdom. Despite the establishment of the temple, a sacred space representing God's presence, Israel failed to fully embrace this mission, often prioritizing their own agendas over God's. The prophets Jeremiah and Isaiah spoke against their hypocrisy, emphasizing that a physical temple was insufficient without a change of heart.
Looking forward, the prophet Isaiah spoke of a time of ultimate restoration, a new heavens and a new earth, where former things would not be remembered, and peace and joy would prevail. This new creation would be marked by the end of violence, the reign of forgiveness, and a transformation of creation. This prophetic vision included a king, a suffering servant, who would overcome sin and death, a new Adam who would fulfill the original vocation and raise up a people filled with God's glory.
The New Testament reveals that this promised "New Creation" has been inaugurated through Yeshua (Jesus). John's Gospel begins by echoing Genesis, stating, "In the beginning was the Word," identifying Yeshua as the Word through whom all things were made, the source of life and light. John presents Yeshua as the birth of the new creation, fulfilling the promises of Isaiah. Yeshua himself spoke of "living water," reminiscent of the river flowing from Eden, signifying the life He brings to all nations.
In Matthew 28, Yeshua, having been given all authority in heaven and earth, commissions his disciples with a mission: to go and make disciples of all nations. This echoes the original mission given to Adam, now taken up by Yeshua. Colossians 1:15 describes the Son as the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of creation, the completed and uncorrupted image. Through Yeshua, believers are reborn as fully human beings, intended to be, and can participate in God's mission. Paul's statement in 2 Corinthians that the new creation has come is presented not as a future hope alone, but as a present reality that has already begun. Believers are now invited to actively participate in cultivating this "garden" as it expands and spreads God's glory. The book of Revelation depicts the ultimate victory of this new creation, where the serpent is finally subdued, and a New Jerusalem, a new Eden without boundaries, becomes the dwelling place of all nations.
To find more Bible Teachings, click the link.
Application for Everyday Life
Recognize your role as God's image-bearer: Understand that, as believers in Yeshua, you are called to reflect God's character and presence in the world.
Embrace the mission of reconciliation: Act as Christ's ambassador, seeking to reconcile others to God through your words and actions.
Live not for yourself but for Christ: Allow Christ's love to compel you to live a life that honors Him who died and was raised again for you.
Cultivate the "new creation" in your own life: Recognize that being "in Christ" means you are part of a new reality, leaving behind the ways of the old creation.
Extend God's "sacred space": Through your life and witness, aim to bring God's presence and influence into every sphere of your life and the lives of others.
Subdue the "serpent's" voice: Be aware of the temptations that lead to separation from God and actively choose to follow God's authority.
Participate in the ongoing mission: Understand that the call to be fruitful, multiply (make disciples), and subdue the earth continues for believers today.
Find hope in Yeshua: Regardless of your struggles, recognize that in Yeshua there is hope, forgiveness, rebirth, and the reality of the new creation.
Be part of a fellowship: Engage with a community of believers for support, prayer, and encouragement in living out this mission.
Focus on Christ's victory: Rather than being consumed by fear or speculation about future events, focus on the present reality of Christ's victory over sin and death.
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God’s Mission - The Greater Exodus

God's Mission - The Greater Exodus
God's Mission - The Greater Exodus
In this Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship, the speaker, possibly Matthew Vander Els, introduces the series "God's Mission," emphasizing how to read the scriptures with the right perspective. The core idea is that the Bible tells one continuous story, revealing God's mission to redeem humanity and restore creation from corruption.
The Old Testament: A Story of Unfulfilled Promises
The Old Testament, or Tanakh, presents God's grand promises of salvation and redemption, which seem unfulfilled at its end. God's mission involves redeeming His people, calling them back to Himself, reconciling them, and restoring goodness to creation. The story begins with creation, quickly deteriorating after Adam and Eve's disobedience, leading to violence and corruption. God's attempt to cleanse the world through the flood doesn't end violence.
The story of the Exodus is central, where God hears the cries of the oppressed Israelites in Egypt and responds by sending Moses to lead them out of slavery. This event demonstrates God's character as one who responds to the afflicted. The Exodus is more than just history; it's a story that resonates in our lives today.
Israel's Cycle of Redemption and Failure
After the Exodus, God wants Israel to be a kingdom of priests, image-bearers to the world, set apart from the corruption of other nations. God gives them the Torah, a guide to living out this kingdom through justice, righteousness, compassion, mercy, and love. However, Israel repeatedly fails, falling into patterns of greed, violence, and oppression, mirroring Egypt.
King Solomon, despite his wisdom and the blessings he receives, breaks God's commands by acquiring excessive wealth, horses, and wives, and by using forced labor to build the temple. Israel becomes like Egypt, oppressing the weak and profiting from war.
The prophets rise, calling Israel to remember their past and return to God. They condemn the people's empty religious practices and warn of impending exile. Eventually, Israel is exiled to Assyria and Babylon, repeating the cycle of oppression.
The Promise of a Greater Exodus
Despite the exile, the prophets speak of a future hope: a new exodus, a second chance for Israel. This new exodus will be greater than the first, addressing the deeper issue of the human heart's enslavement to sin. It will involve a new covenant, where God's law is written on people's hearts, transforming them from the inside out.
Isaiah envisions a time when all nations will join this exodus, worshiping God together in peace and love. Enemies will become friends, and creation will be restored, with deserts flourishing like the Garden of Eden. A new servant and king, a son of David, will come to execute justice and righteousness, leading this new exodus.
Yeshua: The Fulfillment of God's Promises
The Gospels claim that Yeshua (Jesus) is the fulfillment of these Old Testament prophecies. Mark asserts that Yeshua's purpose is to lead this greater exodus. People recognize Yeshua as the Son of David, the one promised to bring redemption and reconcile humanity to God. Yeshua embodies the roles of Prince of Peace, Emmanuel (God with us), servant, king, Son of God, and redeemer. He is the key to experiencing the new life and new creation promised by the prophets.
Application for Everyday Life
Recognize the continuous story of the Bible: Understand that the Bible is not just a collection of stories, but a unified narrative of God's redemptive mission.
Identify personal "Egypts": Recognize the forces of oppression and corruption in your own life and in the world around you.
Embrace the character of God: Respond to the cries of the afflicted and oppressed, reflecting God's character.
Avoid entitlement: Be grateful for blessings and aware of the suffering of others, avoiding a sense of entitlement.
Seek transformation: Allow God to transform your heart, writing His law on it and changing you from the inside out.
Live as image-bearers: Represent God's kingdom through justice, righteousness, compassion, mercy, and love.
Experience the Greater Exodus: Find redemption and new life in Yeshua, participating in the ongoing story of God's mission.
To find more Bible Teachings, click the link.
References
Exodus 3:7
Genesis 4:24
Genesis 12:1
2 Samuel 7:12
1 Kings 10:9
1 Kings 9:15
Deuteronomy 17:16
Mark 1:1
Matthew 21
Resources
God Dwells Among Us by G.K. Beale
N.T. Wright Books
Exile edited by James Scott
Ryan White at Faith in Messiah.com
Tyler Rosenquist at ancientbridge.com
Walter Bergman's commentary on 1 Kings
Michael Bird, Are You the One Who Is to Come?
Matthew Bates, Salvation by Allegiance Alone
Scott McKnight, The King Jesus Gospel
Christopher Wright's book, God's Mission
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God’s Mission - The Greater Passover

God's Mission: The Greater Passover
God's Mission - The Greater Passover
This Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship explores the concept of a "Greater Passover" through Yeshua (Jesus), arguing that it represents a more profound redemption than the original Exodus from Egypt. The teaching emphasizes that God is faithful to His promises and that Yeshua's life, death, and resurrection fulfill these promises. Matthew Vander Els suggests that the New Testament reveals a God who keeps His promises through Yeshua.
The Story of Israel and the Need for a Greater Redemption
The teaching reviews Israel's history, highlighting the cycle of turning toward God, falling into sin, and facing exile. Despite being chosen to be priests to all nations, they failed and were exiled. This pattern, exemplified by exile in Assyria and Babylon, reveals that returning to the land is insufficient. According to the speaker, prophets like Jeremiah, Hosea, Isaiah, and Amos pointed to a greater redemption that would transform the heart and cure the source of sin, not just change actions.
King David is presented as the high point in Israel's history, with prophecies foretelling a son of David who would bring redemption with God's authority.
The constant disappointment and wondering if God would keep His promises led the Israelites to retell the story of the Passover, emphasizing hope in God's faithfulness.
The prophets foretold a future Passover and Exodus that would be bigger than Israel, involving the whole world and changing hearts for reconciliation with God.
Yeshua as the Fulfillment of God's Promises
The teaching emphasizes that the Gospel writers proclaim Yeshua as the fulfillment of every promise God made to His people. Matthew's Gospel presents Yeshua as the Messiah, the son of David and Abraham, who leads a new Passover and Exodus.
Matthew uses the genealogy of Jesus to show a pattern: from Abraham to David (high point), from David to the exile of Babylon (downward spiral), and from the exile to Yeshua (rescue).
Matthew stamps "David" all over the story to emphasize that the promised king has arrived to fulfill Israel's high point.
The expectation of a Messiah was present in the first century, with some expecting a political or violent figure, but few anticipated a Messiah who would be a servant.
During the Babylonian exile, the hope arose for a new redemption, a greater Exodus led by a greater Moses.
Yeshua as the Greater Moses and the New Passover Lamb
The speaker draws parallels between Moses and Yeshua, presenting Yeshua as the "greater Moses" who leads a greater Passover and Exodus. Jewish tradition also connects Moses and the Messiah, expecting a messianic figure like Moses. The Gospels intentionally portray Yeshua as the prophet who fulfills the prophecies of a greater Exodus and Passover.
Yeshua's childhood mirrors Moses': both faced evil kings who attempted to kill them through mass slaughters of children. Both were hidden in Egypt to save them.
Yeshua's miracles and acts of power are compared to Moses': casting out demons with the "finger of God," reminiscent of Moses overpowering pagan forces and receiving the Ten Commandments.
Yeshua's Transfiguration involves Moses and Elijah, with a voice from a cloud saying, "Listen to him," echoing Deuteronomy 18. Luke's account specifically mentions their discussion of Yeshua’s "exodus."
Yeshua is not only portrayed as Moses but also as Israel, representing the nation and fulfilling their vocation. He embodies Israel as the king whose faithfulness stands in place of their faithlessness.
After being baptized, Yeshua goes into the wilderness for 40 days, mirroring Israel's time in the wilderness after the Red Sea crossing. He overcomes the temptations that Israel failed.
The Last Supper and the Transformation of Passover
During the Last Supper, Yeshua transforms the Passover meal, focusing on His future suffering and death instead of the traditional Exodus story. He identifies the bread and wine as His flesh and blood, instructing His disciples to eat and drink in remembrance of Him.
Yeshua's transformation of Passover fulfills the prophecies of a greater Exodus and Passover. He evolves Passover into a day that reflects what God is doing through His death, burial, and resurrection.
In Jeremiah 23, God speaks of a time when people will no longer speak of being brought out of Egypt, but of being gathered from all the countries where they were banished. This refers to the end of exile through the greater Passover.
Yeshua gathers together Israel, not based on bloodline but on those who do the will of God, for their true Exodus and greatest Passover.
Through Yeshua, slavery to sin has ended, and freedom from the oppressive power of death is available. He destroys the works of the devil and delivers believers from the domain of darkness.
Application for Everyday Life
Recognize God's Faithfulness: Remember that God is a keeper of His promises, even in the face of disappointment and uncertainty.
Embrace the New Creation: Understand that salvation, new creation, restoration, and reconciliation with God are available now, not just in the future.
Overcome Sin: Recognize that through Yeshua, believers have the power to overcome sin and experience freedom from its oppressive power.
Be Part of the Kingdom: Know that believers are part of a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and God's special possession, called to declare His praises.
Lean on God's Mercy: Even in times of uncertainty or feeling far from God, trust in His constant patience and forgiveness.
To find more Bible Teachings, click the link.
References
Exodus 1
Exodus 2
Exodus 4
Exodus 12
Deuteronomy 18
Matthew 1
Matthew 17
Luke 9
Colossians 1
1 Peter 2
Resources
The Bible
N.T. Wright
Brent Pitre The Jewish Roots of the Eucharist
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God’s Mission - Reality of the Gospel

God's Mission - Reality of the Gospel
This Bible teaching from Founded In Truth Fellowship, delivered by Matthew Vander Els, explores the core message of the gospel and its implications for our lives today. The speaker begins by questioning the audience's understanding of fundamental biblical concepts and emphasizes the paramount importance of the gospel of Yeshua (Jesus). He asserts that the gospel, encompassing Yeshua's life, ministry, teachings, death, burial, and resurrection, was the most significant event in creation since its very beginning. While acknowledging the importance of other aspects of the Bible, the teaching firmly states that nothing surpasses the significance of Yeshua and the gospel he proclaimed.
The teaching challenges a common perception of the gospel, which often focuses on individual salvation and the afterlife – the idea of receiving a "ticket" to heaven after death based on correct beliefs and avoiding hell. This view typically pictures heaven as a blissful, ethereal realm and hell as a place of eternal torment. However, the speaker argues that this understanding minimizes the true scope and immediate relevance of the gospel.
Instead, the teaching emphasizes that the gospel is fundamentally about the kingdom of God coming near, here, and now. Drawing from Matthew 4:17 and 4:23, it highlights that Yeshua's preaching centered on the arrival of the kingdom of heaven and was accompanied by healing to demonstrate this reality. The gospel, therefore, is not primarily about what individuals must do to secure a place in heaven after death, but rather the good news of what God is doing to restore his creation.
The speaker traces the origins of the idea of escaping the physical body to reach a heavenly afterlife to first-century pagan philosophies, particularly referencing the teachings of Plutarch. He contrasts this with the early Christian understanding, citing Justin Martyr, a second-century church father, who considered the denial of the resurrection and the sole focus on the soul going to heaven at death as contrary to the foundations of the gospel.
The teaching then delves into the creation narrative in Genesis 1:26-28, highlighting that humanity was created in God's image ("tselem" in Hebrew, meaning a representation of a king's power and authority) to rule and have stewardship over God's good creation ("rada" meaning authority and stewardship). The initial plan was for humanity to cultivate and progress the world alongside God, expanding the "garden" (God's presence) to encompass the entire earth. God's creation was good, dynamic, and meant to progress, not remain in a static state of perfection.
The entry of evil and corruption in Genesis 3, through humanity's desire for autonomy and the ability to define good and evil independently of God, disrupted this plan. This rebellion led to a separation between heaven (God's perfect reign) and earth. The temple in the Old Testament symbolized the meeting place of heaven and earth, a place where God's kingdom was revealed.
The gospel, therefore, is the good news that God has come in the person of Yeshua to reverse the effects of this separation and to dispel "hell" (separation from God and its manifestations) from his good creation. Drawing from the Gospel of Mark 1:1 and 1:14-15, the teaching emphasizes that the gospel is about the arrival of God's kingdom and his reign on earth, echoing the prophecies of Isaiah about the end of exile and God's redemption.
The concept of "hell" is presented not merely as a future destination but as a present reality of separation from God, manifested through our selfish pursuits, greed, lust, and the corrupting influence of our words and actions. References to Gehenna (a burning trash heap outside Jerusalem used as a metaphor), outer darkness (Matthew 8:12, 22:13), and Paul's description of eternal separation from God's glory (2 Thessalonians) illustrate this concept. Yeshua himself spoke of the Pharisees creating "children of hell" through their present actions (Matthew 23:15), and James described the tongue as being set on fire by hell, capable of spreading its destructive influence.
God's mission, revealed through the gospel, is to confront and eliminate this "hell" from both creation and our hearts. The Lord's Prayer in Matthew 6 is presented as a daily petition for God's kingdom to come and his will to be done on earth as it is in heaven, reflecting this very mission. Ephesians 1:10 speaks of God's plan to gather all things in heaven and on earth together in Christ. Yeshua himself, in his actions and being, manifested heaven on earth, embodying the function of the temple.
For more Bible Teachings, click the link.
Application for Everyday Life:
Live as ambassadors of God's kingdom in your daily interactions, reflecting his love, justice, and mercy.
Actively confront the "hell" in the world around you – injustice, hatred, suffering – through acts of love, compassion, and truth.
Cultivate God's creation responsibly, recognizing your role as a steward of what he has entrusted to you.
Embrace "eternal life" as a present reality, experiencing God's love, grace, and forgiveness now, not just as a future hope.
Forgive others as Christ forgave you, recognizing that reconciliation is a hallmark of God's coming kingdom.
Love others as Yeshua loved, demonstrating a selfless and sacrificial love that transcends personal boundaries.
Teach and share the good news of God's kingdom coming to earth, empowering others to experience this reality.
Examine your own heart and confront the "hell" within – hatred, lust, unforgiveness – allowing God's transforming power to bring healing and restoration.
Live in hopeful anticipation of God's final restoration, allowing this hope to shape your actions and attitudes in the present.
Recognize that your life as a believer has a purpose now, to be an image-bearer and participate in God's mission of bringing heaven to earth.
References:
Bible Verses:
Genesis 1:26-28
Matthew 4:17
Matthew 6 (The Lord's Prayer)
Mark 1:1
Ephesians 1:10
Revelation 21
Books and Resources Mentioned:
Books by N.T. Wright
Books by Christopher Wright
The Bible Project (created by Timothy Mackie)
Books by G.K. Beale
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Esther - Salvation Requires Celebration

Esther - Salvation Requires Celebration
The Mysterious Book of Esther and the Pursuit of Wholeness
In a Bible teaching delivered by Matthew Vander Els at Founded In Truth Fellowship, the focus was on the book of Esther and its profound message that salvation necessitates celebration. The book of Esther is described as a mysterious and sometimes vague text, prompting readers to delve deeper to uncover its truths. One of the initial points discussed was the human tendency to search for a community grounded in truth and love, a place to worship God, which is the essence of their fellowship.
The teaching then explored the concept of perfection, referencing the compelling verse in Matthew 5:48 where Yeshua (Jesus) says, "Be perfect, like my Father in heaven." Many people read this verse without truly considering its implications, especially when calling themselves believers. It was emphasized that humans are not God and will never be God. To understand this command for perfection, the speaker drew upon the Zonaman Bible Background Commentary, which suggests that the Greek word translated as "perfect" actually means more along the lines of "whole". The context of Matthew chapter 5 describes God's character, and the call to be perfect is a call to pursue the character of God, reminiscent of commands in the Torah like Leviticus 19 to be holy as God is holy.
The pressures of life, work, family, and raising children often lead to a feeling of inadequacy in achieving perfection. The pursuit of perfection as a personal goal is ultimately unattainable for anyone except Yeshua. Instead, the desire of God is for individuals to be perfected by His grace, mercy, and love through imitation of Yeshua, in whom true wholeness (Shalom) is found. The fact that Yeshua had to die and rise again signifies victory over sin and death, reconciling an imperfect people with a perfect God.
Therefore, righteousness is not about achieving a state of flawless perfection but about progress. The speaker cited examples of imperfect yet significant figures in the Bible such as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Samson, Noah, Matthew, John, Peter, and Paul. The key question is not whether someone is perfect, but whether they are progressing in their faith, taking steps forward, even if they stumble. This progress involves pursuing love, kindness, patience, joy, peace, goodness, gentleness, and self-control. God values intention and cheers for those who are making an effort. Imperfection does not disqualify anyone from God's love, mercy, pride, and grace; in fact, it is because of our imperfection that God's attention is drawn to us. Our response is to follow the one who is perfect, Yeshua, rebuking sin and embodying the fruits of the Spirit. Simply keeping commandments does not equate to perfection; the condition of the heart is paramount. The focus should be on the journey of progress rather than being trapped in the condemnation of striving for unattainable perfection. God's power is perfected through our weakness.
Imperfect People and God's Prevailing Plan in Esther
The book of Esther illustrates how God works through imperfect people to achieve His plans. Esther herself was not presented as a perfect, righteous role model, and neither was Mordecai entirely without complexity. Despite their imperfections, God used them to bring about significant reversals. The story begins with Haman's deception of King Xerxes, leading to a decree to kill all the Judeans in the Persian Empire, sparked by Mordecai's refusal to bow to Haman. Mordecai's lament and appeal to Queen Esther set in motion a pivotal moment.
Esther, initially hesitant due to the law against approaching the king unsummoned under penalty of death, was urged by Mordecai to consider that she might have attained her royal position for this very purpose. Esther's response was to ask all the Jews in Susa to fast on her behalf for three days, demonstrating a shift in her character towards boldness and reliance on communal support. This act of asking for support highlights the importance of the community in times of difficulty. Instead of a passive "thoughts and prayers" approach, Esther sought active support through fasting and petitioning God, even though it wasn't explicitly stated that their fasting was for religious reasons. This marked a significant maturing point for Esther, who transformed from a timid figure to someone willing to risk her life.
Reversals and God's Invisible Providence
The narrative of Esther is replete with reversals: honor to shame, death to life, injustice to justice, weakness to strength. After the three-day fast, Esther boldly approached King Xerxes, who showed her favor. Instead of immediately revealing her request, Esther wisely orchestrated events by inviting the king and Haman to a series of banquets. These banquets, involving drinking, were the setting for crucial political decisions in Persian culture. Haman's joy at being an exclusive guest was contrasted with his fury at Mordecai's continued refusal to bow. Driven by his wife's counsel, Haman had a 50-foot gallows built for Mordecai.
Throughout these events, the providence of God, though not explicitly mentioned in the book, is a significant theme. Unlike stories with visible miracles, God's hand works invisibly, guiding events. The king's insomnia leading him to read the chronicles and discover Mordecai's past service was presented not as a coincidence but as an act of God's providence. This led to the king seeking to honor Mordecai, ironically asking Haman, who believed the honor was for himself, how to best honor someone the king delighted in. Haman's elaborate suggestion resulted in him having to publicly honor his enemy, Mordecai, a profound humiliation.
Salvation Requires Celebration: The Institution of Purim
Mordecai recorded these events and instructed the Jews to observe the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar annually as days of feasting, gladness, joy, and the exchange of gifts of food and gifts to the poor. This celebration, known as Purim, commemorates the Jews' relief from their enemies and the turning of their sorrow into gladness. The teaching emphasized that salvation requires celebration as a natural and necessary response. Purim serves as a testament to this principle.
To find more Bible Teachings, click the link.
Application for Everyday Life
Embrace Progress Over Perfection: Focus on daily growth in character rather than striving for an unattainable state of perfection.
Recognize God's Grace: Acknowledge that God's grace is essential for our journey, as we are inherently imperfect.
Seek Community Support: When facing challenges, seek the support of your community through prayer and action.
Be Bold in Your Calling: Like Esther, be willing to step out in faith, recognizing that you might be positioned for a specific purpose.
Trust in God's Providence: Even when God's hand is not visibly apparent, trust that He is working behind the scenes.
Practice Respect in Conflict: Like Esther's approach to the king, use respect as a tool to diminish offense and facilitate positive change.
Celebrate Salvation: Acknowledge and celebrate God's acts of salvation in your life and in the history of His people.
Engage Your Community: Recognize that faith is not solely individual but involves actively participating in God's kingdom with others.
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Esther - Learning from Imperfect People

Esther - Learning from Imperfect People
In this engaging Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship, Matthew Vander Els delves into the Book of Esther, revealing its profound lessons about faith, identity, and God's work through flawed individuals. This series, initially envisioned as a brief exploration, has proven to be rich with complexity, irony, and humor, challenging our preconceived notions about God's Word. The Book of Esther doesn't always unfold as we expect, often surprising us with unexpected twists and turns.
The study begins by contrasting the romanticized portrayal of King Ahasuerus (also known as Xerxes) in popular media with his biblical depiction. Far from being a benevolent figure, the Xerxes of the Bible was a ruler defined by supreme power, wealth, arrogance, and a relentless pursuit of glory. His actions in the first chapter alone illustrate his corrupt and dishonorable nature, such as his exploitation of his wife, Queen Vashti, whom he commanded to appear before a drunken assembly merely to display her beauty. Vashti's courageous refusal, interpreted as standing on a foundation of dignity, led to her banishment. This event, according to the Greek historian Herodotus, likely occurred before Xerxes' ill-fated war with Greece. Faced with the loss of his queen, Xerxes sought counsel from his young, unmarried men, who proposed a competition to find a new queen from among all the virgins in the kingdom. This process, where the king would spend one night with each woman before choosing his favorite, is likened to modern-day corrupt approaches to finding a spouse.
As the narrative progresses into Chapter 2, the focus shifts to the protagonists: Esther and her cousin and adoptive father, Mordecai. They are introduced as Judeans living in the capital city of Susa, a land far removed from Israel, even farther than Babylon. Significantly, the teaching emphasizes that Esther and Mordecai are not portrayed as paragons of religious zeal, unlike figures such as Daniel or Ezra. They appear to have assimilated into the pagan Persian culture, even bearing Babylonian names: Hadassah (Esther's Hebrew name) and Esther (her Persian name). Mordecai's lineage is meticulously detailed: he is a Jew from Judea, a Benjamite, the son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish. This lineage connects him to King Saul, the first king of the united monarchy of Israel, who was also a Benjamite and the son of Kish. The author suggests that this connection to Saul, a king who ultimately disobeyed God, might be intentional, highlighting the imperfect heritage of even key figures in God's plans. Furthermore, Mordecai and his family were among those exiled from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar, a consequence of the people's disobedience. While King Cyrus of Persia later allowed the Judeans to return and rebuild their temple (events chronicled in Ezra and Nehemiah), many chose to remain in Persia. The speaker raises the question of whether they were supposed to return, referencing prophecies in Isaiah about the end of exile and the restoration of Israel. He then connects this to the coming of Yeshua (Jesus), who fulfilled these prophecies by ending the exile from sin and bringing people back to God.
Esther is introduced as Hadassah, which means Esther. She was orphaned and raised by Mordecai. The text emphasizes her exceptional beauty, both in form and face. When the king issued his decree to gather young women, Esther was among those taken to the king's palace and placed under the care of Hegai, the custodian of the women. She quickly gained Hegai's favor, receiving preferential treatment. On Mordecai's advice, Esther did not reveal her Jewish identity. The speaker draws a parallel to believers today who might conceal their faith due to various pressures, questioning the authenticity of such silence in light of the transformative power of Yeshua. He stresses that our faith is meant to be public, a proclamation of the good news, and that we are called to be image-bearers and ambassadors of God. Hiding our faith can be a form of unfaithfulness to our vocation.
The selection process for the new queen involved twelve months of beautification. When Esther's turn came, she sought only the advice of Hegai. She won favor in the eyes of all who saw her, and ultimately, King Ahasuerus loved Esther more than all the other women, setting the royal crown on her head and making her queen in the seventh year of his reign. The king celebrated this occasion with a great feast, Esther's feast, and granted a remission of taxes and royal gifts. The speaker notes the seemingly contradictory nature of a Judean woman marrying a pagan king, something generally discouraged in Scripture, leaving the reader to ponder Esther's motivations and godliness. He encourages the audience to observe Esther's character development throughout the book, noting her initial passivity evolving into boldness and assertiveness.
To find more Bible Teachings, click the link.
Application for Everyday Life
Be Authentic in Your Faith: Don't selectively reveal or hide your faith based on convenience or comfort. Embrace your identity in Yeshua publicly.
Discern When to Stand Firm: Exercise wisdom in deciding when to confront opposition and when to humble yourself. Not every perceived offense requires a battle.
Recognize God's Work in Imperfection: God uses flawed individuals to accomplish His purposes. Don't disqualify yourself or others because of imperfections.
Remember Your Redemption: If you are a believer in Yeshua, your ultimate redemption has already occurred. Live in the reality of that truth and your identity in Him.
Audit Your Motivations: Regularly examine your reasons for taking a stand on certain issues. Are they rooted in genuine faith or personal pride?
References
Bible Verses:
Esther 1
Esther 2
Esther 3
Purim (implied reference)
Daniel 1 (implied reference)
Ezra 1 (implied reference)
Nehemiah 1 (implied reference)
Isaiah 40 (implied reference)
Isaiah 46 (implied reference)
Books and Resources:
Herodotus' Histories by Herodotus
Works by Xenophon
One Night with the King (Movie)
The Bible
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Esther - Sacred or Secular?

Esther - Sacred or Secular?
In this Bible teaching from Founded In Truth Fellowship, Matthew Vander Els introduces the Book of Esther, posing the question of whether it should be considered a sacred text or a secular historical narrative. He highlights the unique nature of Esther, noting that it is one of only two books in the Bible named after women (the other being Ruth) and that it is historically situated between the fourth and fifth centuries BCE, making it roughly 2500 years old. The speaker finds this historical depth fascinating.
The authorship of Esther is uncertain, with some commentators suggesting Mordecai, a key figure in the story and a scribe, as the writer. Ultimately, it is affirmed that the book is part of the scriptures, with the belief that God was the ultimate author, providing it for study. Interestingly, for the first seven centuries after the ascension of Jesus, there were no known commentaries on the Book of Esther within Christian communities, according to commentator Karen Jo.
Vander Els delves into why this might be the case, mentioning that prominent figures like Martin Luther openly disliked the book and questioned its place in the Bible. John Calvin, despite his extensive preaching on other biblical texts, never preached on Esther. A primary reason for this hesitancy among some conservative Christians is the book's seemingly secular style. Unlike many other biblical books, God is not explicitly mentioned in the Hebrew version of Esther. There are no accounts of direct dialogue with God, no prayers recorded for Esther or Mordecai in the Hebrew text, and no references to other books of the Bible. The narrative unfolds in a pagan land, the Persian Empire, focusing on a Judean family who has assimilated into the culture rather than returning to Jerusalem.
Furthermore, the book lacks explicit character motivations beyond self-preservation at times, and the moral integrity of the protagonists is open to interpretation. The story reads more like a historical account, leaving readers to infer and discern the underlying meanings. This secular presentation could lead one to mistake it for a non-religious story about a Judean family, a king, a conspiracy, bravery, and a reversal of fortune.
The speaker contrasts Esther and Mordecai with Daniel, another Judean living in exile. Daniel is depicted as a religiously observant Jew who refused to compromise his faith and even declined to eat the king's food. In stark contrast, Esther willingly participated in a process to become the king's wife, consuming non-kosher food and seemingly embracing aspects of pagan culture. Their names themselves, Mordecai possibly derived from the Babylonian deity Marduk and Esther potentially from the Persian goddess Ishtar, suggest a significant degree of assimilation. This has led some to question the piety of Esther and Mordecai, noting the absence of any indication that they kept the Sabbath, observed kosher laws, or were actively concerned with the Temple in Jerusalem.
Interestingly, the Greek version of Esther, written around the second century BCE, includes numerous prayers, including a lengthy prayer by Esther that reflects a strong abhorrence for paganism, a sentiment seemingly at odds with her actions in the main narrative. This suggests later additions aimed at aligning the story more closely with traditional religious expectations. The speaker emphasizes that the Hebrew text presents Esther and Mordecai as fully assimilated into pagan culture, choosing to remain in the Persian capital rather than returning to Jerusalem when permitted.
Despite its secular nature and the questionable religious zeal of its main characters, the speaker firmly believes that Esther is a vital part of the Word of God. He argues that if we try to force the Bible into a mold of what we think it should be, we risk perverting God's work. Just as Samson, despite his flaws, holds a place in scripture, so too does Esther. The absence of explicit divine intervention or religious piety in Esther serves a purpose, reflecting the reality of many believers' lives today.
The narrative of King Ahasuerus (identified as Xerxes I, a powerful Persian king who reigned from India to Ethiopia over 127 provinces around the 5th century BCE) is central to the context of Esther. Xerxes is portrayed as an exceptionally wealthy and powerful ruler, a "god-king" figure who demanded glory and offered his subjects whatever their flesh desired. The speaker draws a parallel between Xerxes' pursuit of glory and the human tendency to seek worldly validation. Xerxes' lavish six-month-long feast for his officials and servants, followed by a seven-day feast for all the people in Susa, highlights his immense power and desire for admiration. This extravagant display is contrasted with the true King, Jesus (Yeshua), who possesses ultimate power and authority in heaven and on earth, having already given everything for humanity. The story prompts self-reflection on which king individuals truly serve: one who caters to fleshly desires in exchange for submission, or one who has already made the ultimate sacrifice.
For more Bible Teachings, click the link.
Application for Everyday Life
Self-Reflection on Allegiance: Examine which "king" you are truly serving in your life – the one who promises worldly fulfillment for submission, or the King of Kings who has already given everything.
Auditing Priorities: Consider whether your pursuits align more with the glory-seeking of Xerxes or the selfless love exemplified by Jesus. Are you chasing status, material possessions, or other things to fill a void that only God can fill?
Recognizing God's Hidden Work: Understand that God's faithfulness is present even when His direct intervention is not obvious. Look for His "silhouette" in your life's circumstances.
Embracing God's Faithfulness: Take comfort in the truth that God remains faithful despite personal shortcomings, struggles, and feelings of distance from Him.
Understanding Salvation and Celebration: Recognize that salvation comes from the Lord and should lead to celebration, as exemplified by the festival of Purim.
Caution Against Superficial Interpretations: Be wary of sensational or poorly cited information, especially when interpreting scripture or historical contexts. Seek truth through reliable sources.
Appreciating the Bible's Diversity: Accept that the Bible contains a variety of literary styles and addresses different aspects of the human experience, even those that might seem uncomfortable or secular.
References
1 Corinthians 10:31 (Implied theme of giving glory to God)
Books and Resources Mentioned
Esther by Karen Jobes
Esther and Her Elusive God: How a Secular Story Functions as Scripture by John Young
Esther and Ruth by Iain Duguid
The Bible
Writings by Martin Luther
Sermons by John Calvin
Histories by Herodotus
Epic of Gilgamesh
The Talmud
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