Founded in Truth Fellowship - Bible Teachings and Sermons

The Choice is Yours - The Parable Series

The Choice is Yours - The Parable Series
Introduction to Matthew 18 and the Kingdom of Heaven
Welcome to a study of the teachings of Yeshua, as presented by Matthew Vander Els at Founded in Truth Fellowship. This session delves into the powerful chapter of Matthew 18, a section brimming with insights into the nature of God's kingdom and the conduct expected of its members. We often revisit familiar parables from our youth, only to discover deeper significance and profound truths as adults. This exploration focuses on Matthew 18, a chapter that reveals the heart of living in God's kingdom, which Yeshua proclaimed was being established here and now.
Becoming Like Children: Humility and Dependence
The disciples of Yeshua were contemplating who would be the greatest in this new kingdom. To illustrate a crucial principle, Yeshua called a child to stand among them. He declared that unless one turns and becomes like children, they cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. Furthermore, whoever humbles themselves like this child is the greatest in the kingdom.
The significance of children in this context lies in their powerlessness and lack of social status in the first century. Unlike adults who accumulate status through age and experience, children depend entirely on the love and care of others. To be great in God's kingdom requires relinquishing our own status, agendas, and pride, depending solely on God's love and reciprocating that love.
Yeshua's teaching extends to how we treat the vulnerable, likened to these little ones. Causing such individuals, particularly new or less mature believers who rely on God's love, to stumble would incur severe consequences. It would be better to face a horrific death than to lead these vulnerable ones away from God through our actions or misrepresentation of His character. As heads of households and members of the community, we have a responsibility to represent God accurately to those who look up to us.
Addressing Sin Within the Community: A Path to Reconciliation
Moving forward in Matthew 18, Yeshua provides instructions for dealing with sin within the community of believers. If a brother or sister sins against you, the first step is to address the issue privately, between the two of you alone. If the offender listens and repents, reconciliation is achieved.
However, if the person does not listen, the next step is to take one or two others along with you, so that every charge may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. The aim here is not condemnation but to encourage repentance and restoration within the community. If the offender still refuses to listen, the matter is to be brought before the church, the community of believers. Even then, the goal remains reconciliation, driven by the community's love for the individual. If, after involving the community, the person still refuses to listen, they are to be treated as a Gentile and a tax collector. This does not necessarily mean ostracism but signifies a break in fellowship until repentance occurs.
Yeshua underscores the authority given to the community, stating that whatever they bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever they loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. He further emphasizes the power of unity in prayer.
The Question of Forgiveness: Seventy-Seven Times
In response to Yeshua's teachings on community and sin, Peter asks how often he should forgive a brother who sins against him, suggesting seven times. In first-century rabbinic thought, there were discussions about the limits of forgiveness, with some concluding it to be three times. Peter's suggestion of seven was already generous in this context.
Yeshua's reply, however, was not seven times, but seventy-seven times. This seemingly hyperbolic number carries significant weight, alluding to the story of Lamech in Genesis 4. Lamech, a descendant of Cain, boasted of avenging himself seventy-seven times for a minor wound, contrasting with God's protection of Cain for a sevenfold vengeance. Yeshua's use of this number flips the script: instead of unrestrained revenge, believers are called to unrestrained mercy and forgiveness.
The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant: A Reflection of God's Grace
To further illustrate the importance of forgiveness, Yeshua shares the parable of the unforgiving servant. The kingdom of heaven is likened to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. One servant owed him an astronomical sum, described as ten thousand talents – essentially an unpayable debt. Unable to repay, the servant pleaded for patience, and the king, out of pity, forgave him the entire debt.
However, this same servant then encountered a fellow servant who owed him a much smaller amount, a hundred denarii. Despite the fellow servant's plea for patience using the very same words he had used with the king, the first servant refused and had him thrown into prison until the debt could be paid.
When the other servants witnessed this, they reported it to the king. The king, incensed by the first servant's lack of mercy, despite having received such immense forgiveness himself, summoned him and condemned his wickedness. The king then delivered the unforgiving servant to the jailers (or tormentors) until he should pay back the entire original debt.
Yeshua concludes the parable with a stark warning: "So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you if you do not forgive your brother from your heart." This highlights that forgiveness is not optional for followers of Yeshua. God expects us to understand the depth of His forgiveness towards us and to reciprocate that forgiveness to others. Unforgiveness is incompatible with being a part of God's kingdom.
Application for Everyday Life
Practice humility: Recognise your dependence on God's grace, mirroring the dependence of a child.
Protect the vulnerable: Be mindful of the impact of your words and actions on newer or less mature believers, ensuring you lead them closer to God.
Address conflict directly: When someone wrongs you, follow Yeshua's instructions to speak to them privately first, seeking repentance and reconciliation.
Involve the community wisely: If private attempts fail, bring one or two others, and then, if necessary, the church, always with the goal of restoration.
Forgive without limit: Emulate God's boundless forgiveness towards you by extending forgiveness to those who wrong you, reflecting the "seventy-seven times" principle.
Distinguish forgiveness from forgetting and excusing: Understand that forgiveness is a release of resentment, not a denial of the offense or a requirement to remain in harm's way.
Choose to release retaliation: Consciously decide to let go of the desire for revenge and the hope that the offender will suffer.
Focus on restoration: Adopt the attitude of a forgiver who desires the offender's reconciliation with God and their transformation.
Recognise the danger of unforgiveness: Understand that harboring unforgiveness can lead to personal torment and hinder your own relationship with God.
Make the choice to forgive: Even in the most difficult circumstances, choose to lay down bitterness and walk out of the prison of unforgiveness.
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The Parable Series - The Lost Trinity

The Parable Series - The Lost Trinity
Introduction to a Search for Something More
Many individuals find themselves on a quest for something beyond their immediate experiences, yearning for a sense of community grounded in principles of truth and love. The Founded in Truth Fellowship aims to be such a place, a spiritual home centered around the worship of Jesus Christ. In this teaching, Matthew Vander Els introduces a message titled "The Lost Trinity," suggesting that its focus might diverge from conventional interpretations of the Trinity. The discourse begins with a reading from the Book of Isaiah, chapter 25, a passage described as particularly meaningful. The intention is to dissect the prophecy, noting its emotional and thematic shifts to gain a deeper understanding.
Exploring Isaiah 25: A Prophecy of Hope and Restoration
Isaiah 25 opens with expressions of praise and exaltation to God for His wondrous deeds and long-established, reliable plans. The prophecy speaks of the Lord transforming fortified cities into ruins, signifying the downfall of oppressors. This act of divine intervention leads to glorification by strong peoples and fear among ruthless nations. God is depicted as a refuge and stronghold for the poor and needy in times of distress, offering shelter from storms and shade from intense heat, particularly against the aggression of the ruthless.
A pivotal element of this chapter is the vision of a future feast on a mountain, prepared by the Lord of hosts for all nations. This banquet will feature rich food and well-aged wine, symbolizing abundance and celebration. Furthermore, the prophecy foretells the swallowing up of the covering or shroud that envelops all peoples, interpreted as a veil of mourning associated with death. This signifies God's ultimate victory over death, accompanied by the wiping away of tears from all faces and the removal of the reproach of His people from the earth, a promise declared by the Lord Himself. In that day, it will be proclaimed, "Behold, this is our God; we have waited for Him, that He might save us." The faithful are called to be glad and rejoice in His salvation. The prophecy also includes the trampling down of Moab, an enemy of God's people, and the humbling of pride and fortifications.
Luke 15: The Heart of the Lost Trinity
The teaching then shifts to Luke chapter 15, which encapsulates the core of "The Lost Trinity" message. This chapter recounts the gathering of tax collectors and sinners around Jesus, prompting grumbling from the Pharisees and scribes who questioned His association with such individuals. Luke's Gospel is presented as having a specific focus on demonstrating Jesus's inclusive love, reaching out to the outcasts, the unclean, the poor, the needy, and even the Gentiles, offering them the peace of God. This theme is illustrated through various accounts in Luke, such as the sinful woman anointing Jesus's feet at Simon the Pharisee's house (Luke 7), where Jesus declares her forgiveness and salvation despite the Pharisee's disapproval. Another example is Levi the tax collector hosting a banquet for Jesus (Luke 5). Even at Pharisaic banquets (Luke 14), Jesus challenged the hosts to invite the poor, crippled, lame, and blind, highlighting God's inclusive kingdom. The speaker notes Jesus's recurring involvement with meals and banquets, even after his resurrection when he asked his disciples for something to eat (Luke 24:40).
The Parables of the Lost in Luke 15
In response to the Pharisees' grumbling, Jesus tells three parables, which the speaker collectively refers to as the "Lost Trinity."
The Parable of the Lost Sheep: Jesus asks, "Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn't he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?" This question is framed to make the Pharisees, metaphorically shepherds, uncomfortable, as shepherds in that era were often viewed negatively. The shepherd's joy upon finding the lost sheep highlights God's joy when He finds someone who was lost. While this parable often encourages outreach to non-believers, it also prompts reflection on whether individuals within a community are being unintentionally ignored or lost.
The Parable of the Lost Coin: "Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Doesn't she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.'" This parable, involving a smaller number and a woman (potentially carrying social implications), further emphasizes God's relentless effort and the joy in finding what was lost. Like the shepherd, the woman shares her joy with her community. This illustrates God's persistent longing for reconciliation with those who are lost, likened to searching with a candle and broom until they are found, followed by divine rejoicing.
The Parable of the Prodigal Son (or Prodigal Father): This longest of Jesus's parables tells of a man with two sons. The younger son asks for his inheritance, squanders it in a distant land, and eventually returns home in destitution. The father, filled with compassion, runs to him, embraces him, and throws a lavish celebration, symbolizing God's unconditional love and acceptance of returning sinners. The elder son, who remained obedient and hardworking, becomes angry at the father's extravagant grace towards his wayward brother. He felt unappreciated despite his faithfulness. The father reminds him, "My son, you are always with me, and everything I have is yours," highlighting that the elder son had access to the father's blessings all along. The parable ends without explicitly stating whether the elder son joins the celebration, leaving the audience to ponder their own response. The speaker suggests that the parable is not just about a prodigal son but also a "prodigal father," characterized by reckless and extravagant love. Both sons are presented as having a distorted understanding of their father's love and their own identity. The younger son doubted his worthiness to be called a son, while the elder son believed his father's love was earned through his service. The father's actions reveal that his love is freely given based on sonship, not performance.
Application for Everyday Life
Embrace Inclusive Love: Like Jesus, strive to include those who are marginalized or considered outcasts in your community and show them God's love.
Seek the Lost: Be proactive in reaching out to those who may be drifting away or feeling disconnected, both within and outside your immediate circles.
Rejoice in Reconciliation: Share in the joy when someone who was lost is found, mirroring God's own rejoicing.
Examine Your Identity in God: Reflect on whether you are operating under a false identity, either feeling unworthy of God's love or believing you must earn it through works.
Understand God's Extravagant Love: Recognize that God's love is not limited or conditional but is reckless and extravagant, freely offered to all.
Challenge Preconceived Notions of God: Be open to how God's plans and prophecies might unfold in ways that differ from your expectations.
Foster Community: Intentionally connect with all members of your community, ensuring no one feels overlooked or excluded.
Practice Forgiveness and Compassion: Extend grace and compassion to others, just as the father in the prodigal son parable did.
Conclusion: The Reckless Love of the Father
The parables in Luke 15, the "Lost Trinity," collectively illustrate the profound and relentless love of God. They reveal a Father who actively seeks out the lost, rejoices in their return, and offers unconditional love and acceptance. Ultimately, the message emphasizes that all are invited to God's banquet of mercy and restoration, regardless of their past or present circumstances. The core of Jesus's teaching, as reflected in these parables, is the extravagant and radical nature of the Father's love for humanity.
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The Parable Series - Cursed

The Parable Series - Cursed
The Parable Series - Cursed
This Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship, titled "Cursed," explores the concept of being cursed and the transformative power of encountering Yeshua (Jesus). The message delves into a specific parable in Luke 18, contrasting the Pharisee and the tax collector, and expands on themes of prejudice, righteousness, and God's inclusive love. Matthew Vander Els introduces the message by referencing morning prayers in Orthodox Judaism to highlight historical perspectives and shifts in religious interpretations.
Understanding the Pharisee and the Tax Collector
The teaching examines the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector to challenge preconceived notions. Pharisees, often viewed negatively, were actually pious Jews who sought to uphold the Torah strictly, adapting it to contemporary life. Tax collectors, on the other hand, were seen as the "scum of the earth" due to their extortionate practices.
In the parable, the Pharisee thanks God for not being like others, while the tax collector humbly asks for mercy. Yeshua declares that the tax collector, not the Pharisee, goes home justified. This challenges the idea that outward righteousness and strict adherence to religious laws are sufficient for experiencing God's favor. The key point is that the Pharisee's disdain for others undermines his obedience to God.
The Heart's Condition
The message emphasizes that true entry into God's kingdom is determined by the heart's condition, not merely outward signs or traditions. Yeshua's teachings often disrupt comfortable, established ways of thinking, calling for a new creation and a restoration of all things. This new creation includes those often considered outcasts – tax collectors, sinners, and even those labeled as "cursed."
The Canaanite Woman and Overcoming Curses
The teaching references the story of Yeshua and the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15 to illustrate God's inclusive love. The Canaanites were considered cursed and were enemies of Israel. Yeshua initially seems to reject the woman, stating he was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel. However, her persistent faith and humility lead Yeshua to heal her daughter.
Matthew Vander Els highlights that Yeshua intentionally went to Sidon, a place associated with cursed people, and that he changed Mark’s description of the woman from Syrophoenician to Canaanite, in order to emphasize the weight and the point of the story. This encounter demonstrates that curses do not follow individuals into the arms of Yeshua, and that God's mercy, grace, and healing are available to all, regardless of their background or perceived status. The story underscores that those who are humble, repentant, and yearning for God can experience His presence more deeply than those who are outwardly religious but prejudiced.
Application for Everyday Life
Examine your heart: Ensure your actions align with a genuine love for God and others, rather than being driven by self-righteousness.
Embrace inclusivity: Extend God's love, grace, and forgiveness to those society deems outcasts or "cursed," breaking down barriers of prejudice and judgment.
Challenge your comfort zones: Be willing to have your beliefs and traditions challenged by Yeshua's radical teachings, embracing the new creation and restoration He offers.
Practice humility: Recognize your own imperfections and need for God's mercy, avoiding the trap of looking down on others.
Seek justice and love: Apply the Torah with a foundation of love and a desire for justice, becoming an ambassador of God's kingdom rather than a tool of judgment.
Be cautious of labels: Avoid using labels to dismiss or write people off.
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References
Luke 18:9
Luke 18:11
Matthew 5:8
Matthew 15
Genesis 9
1 Kings 11:1
1 Kings 16:31
Luke 10:13
Mark 7
2 Kings 9:16
Isaiah
Jeremiah 31
Ezekiel 27, 28, 32
Joel
Resources
The Bible
Zonderman's Bible Backgrounds Commentary
Mishnah
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The Parable Series - Rebellion in the Vineyard

The Parable Series - Rebellion in the Vineyard
Yeshua's Triumphal Entry and the Disciples' Expectations
Matthew Vander Els from Founded in Truth Fellowship begins a teaching on Matthew chapter 21, focusing on Yeshua's final entry into Jerusalem. This event occurred during Passover, a significant festival celebrating freedom from slavery. The speaker notes that many of Yeshua's disciples held the expectation that he would initiate a literal rebellion against the Roman authorities and re-establish the Kingdom of God in Jerusalem at this opportune time. Their understanding was that Yeshua would lead a revolt, gathering weapons to overthrow the Roman guards and reclaim Jerusalem. However, this perspective revealed a misunderstanding of Yeshua's true mission.
The arrival of Yeshua in Jerusalem was marked by a jubilant crowd who greeted him by spreading palm branches and shouting praises. There are varying interpretations of Yeshua's choice to ride on a donkey. One view suggests it symbolized his humble nature, indicating he was not yet coming as a conquering king. Another opinion posits that riding on a donkey, similar to Solomon's entry on a mule, signified his role as the conquering King. This interpretation aligns with Zechariah 9:9, which speaks of a king coming humbly yet victoriously on a donkey. A third, more provocative interpretation suggests Yeshua's entry was a deliberate mockery of the Roman triumphal processions. The speaker leans towards the second interpretation, believing Yeshua indeed came as a conquering King, but one who conquered sin and death.
The Temple Cleansing: Confronting Injustice
Following his entry, Yeshua went directly to the temple and took decisive action against the commercial activities taking place there. He drove out those who were buying and selling, overturned the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of those selling pigeons. Yeshua condemned their actions, quoting Isaiah and Jeremiah by saying, "My house shall be called a house of prayer, but you make it a den of robbers."
The speaker explains that while there might have been logistical reasons for the market setup on the Temple Mount, facilitated by Caiaphas, the core issue was the exploitation of worshippers, particularly the poor. Moneychangers charged fees to exchange currency for temple offerings, and the price of sacrificial animals, especially pigeons offered by the poor, was inflated. Yeshua's anger was directed at this injustice and the transformation of his Father's house into a place of extortion rather than worship. This act demonstrated Yeshua's passionate love for his people and the sanctity of God's house. Immediately after this forceful cleansing, the blind and lame came to Yeshua in the temple, and he healed them. This juxtaposition of judgment and mercy highlights the multifaceted nature of Yeshua's ministry.
The Barren Fig Tree: A Symbol of Unfruitfulness
The next morning, as Yeshua returned to the city, he encountered a fig tree by the roadside. Finding it full of leaves but without fruit, Matthew's Gospel records that Yeshua cursed the tree, causing it to wither. The disciples were astonished by this act. The speaker clarifies that the image of a fruitless fig tree or vine is a common metaphor in the Old Testament, often used to represent Israel and Jerusalem's spiritual barrenness and God's impending judgment. Prophets like Micah, Jeremiah, and Hosea used similar imagery to critique Israel's lack of spiritual fruit despite having God's law. The Pharisees, despite their meticulous adherence to the Torah, had turned the temple into an idol and their religious practices into a checklist, missing the intended intimacy with God. Their pursuit was the Law and the Temple themselves, rather than the relationship they were meant to foster.
The Parable of the Two Sons: Hypocrisy Exposed
Upon his return to the temple, Yeshua was confronted by the chief priests and elders who questioned his authority. In response, Yeshua presented a series of parables, the first being the parable of the two sons. A father asked his two sons to work in his vineyard. The first son initially refused but later went, while the second son readily agreed but did not go. When asked which son did the father's will, the religious leaders correctly answered, "the first." Yeshua then delivered a sharp rebuke, stating that tax collectors and prostitutes would enter the Kingdom of God before them. This was because, despite their outward piety and knowledge of the Law, the religious leaders had rejected John the Baptist's message of righteousness, while those considered outcasts had believed. Even after witnessing the faith of the marginalized, the religious leaders remained unchanged. This parable served as a direct indictment of their hypocrisy, highlighting that true obedience lies in action and a change of heart, not mere words or outward appearances.
For more Bible Teachings, click the link.
Application for Everyday Life:
Examine your motivations for religious practices: Are you following God for genuine love and relationship, or out of a sense of obligation or to appear righteous to others?
Beware of hypocrisy: Ensure your actions align with your words and beliefs. Don't just say you will follow God; actively do so.
Recognize true spiritual fruit: Focus on bearing fruit that reflects God's character, such as love, justice, and righteousness, rather than relying on outward displays of religiosity.
Don't turn the means of grace into an idol: The Bible and church are meant to facilitate intimacy with God, not become replacements for God himself.
Be open to God's new work: God is always doing new things. Avoid becoming so rigid in your traditions that you miss what God is doing in the present.
Understand Jesus as the cornerstone: Recognize that Jesus is the foundation upon which everything rests. Rejecting him leads to stumbling and brokenness.
Focus on genuine transformation: God desires a change of heart and a life that reflects His will, not just external conformity to rules.
References:
Bible Verses:
Matthew 21:1
Matthew 21:12
Matthew 21:28
Matthew 21:33
Zechariah 9:9
Psalm 118:22-23
Isaiah 5:1
Daniel 2:34-35
John 2:19-21
Books and Resources Mentioned:
The Bible
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The Parable Series - Fear and Oil

The Parable Series - Fear and Oil
The Parable Series - Fear and Oil
In a teaching from Founded In Truth Fellowship, Matthew Vander Els explores the Parable of the Ten Virgins in Matthew 25, providing guidance on navigating the end times and living a purposeful life grounded in love and truth. The discourse aims to steer believers away from both fear-based speculation and apathy, encouraging a focused and intentional walk with God.
Understanding Matthew 24 and 25
The teaching begins by addressing common anxieties related to eschatology, or the study of the end times. Vander Els admits a past struggle with both extreme views and apathy regarding the end of the world. Instead of offering a timeline, the emphasis is on pastoral encouragement, urging believers to remain steadfast in a broken world.
A key point is the interpretation of Matthew 24, where Jesus discusses the destruction of the temple and signs of his coming. The speaker divides the chapter into two sections: verses 4-35, which answer the question of when the temple will be destroyed, and verses 36-51, which address the signs of Jesus' return and the end of the age.
Regarding the destruction of the temple, it is asserted that Jesus was speaking of events that would occur within a generation, around 40 years, after his pronouncement. This aligns with the historical destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. The speaker draws on the works of scholars like N.T. Wright, Tim Mackey, and Frederick Murphy to inform his understanding.
However, the speaker cautions against interpreting these prophecies as a precise timeline, and the discussion highlights the use of hyperbole and proto-apocalyptic language common among Hebrew prophets. Examples from Isaiah 13 are used to demonstrate how near and distant events are intertwined with exaggerated, poetic language to emphasize God's vision.
The Parable of the Ten Virgins: Readiness and Intention
The message transitions to the Parable of the Ten Virgins in Matthew 25, where five wise virgins prepare for the bridegroom's arrival with extra oil, while five foolish virgins do not. The oil symbolizes living with intention as ambassadors of Christ, focused on the kingdom of God. The wise virgins represent those who actively live out their faith, while the foolish are distracted by fear, apathy, and worldly concerns.
It's emphasized that Jesus' message isn't about adhering to a prophecy chart, but rather about pastoral encouragement: acting in a broken world by remaining submitted to the scriptures. The ultimate mission is to love God and love one's neighbor, which is described as the spear tip or most important aspect of God's kingdom.
Avoiding Fear and Apathy
The teaching identifies two detrimental responses to the brokenness of the world: succumbing to fear and falling into apathy. Fear manifests in obsession with conspiracies, sensationalist media, and reliance on self-proclaimed prophets. Apathy, on the other hand, leads to disengagement from creation and the mandate to care for it.
Instead, the call is to stand firm, endure, and stay focused on proclaiming the gospel and building the Kingdom of God. The new people of God are dispatched to all nations, to proclaim a new creation. This involves actively loving God and others, resisting the urge to conform to worldly standards, and bearing witness to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.
Application for Everyday Life
Focus on Loving God and Your Neighbor: Make these the priority in your daily actions and decisions.
Resist Fear and Sensationalism: Be aware of media that feeds on fear and conspiracy theories, and instead focus on truth and love.
Stay Engaged with Creation: Recognize that caring for the earth is a spiritual responsibility.
Live Intentionally: Emulate the wise virgins by living each day with the expectation of Christ's call, prepared and focused.
Endure and Persevere: Maintain focus, stay focused, and don't be afraid, because we are part of the birthing of the kingdom into the now.
Key Takeaways
The destruction of Jerusalem and the temple was a historical event with prophetic significance, but not the end of the world.
The Parable of the Ten Virgins teaches the importance of readiness, intention, and persistent faith.
Fear and apathy are detrimental responses to a broken world; instead, believers should focus on love, service, and proclaiming the gospel.
The kingdom of God is being birthed now, and believers are called to be ambassadors of this new creation.
To find more Bible Teachings, click the link.
References
Matthew 24:3
Matthew 24:4-35
Matthew 24:33
Matthew 24:34
Matthew 24:36-51
Matthew 25:1
Matthew 28
Mark 14:62
Luke 14:26
Luke 17:24
Acts 5
Acts 11
1 Peter 3:22
Exodus 11:6
2 Kings 18
Daniel 7
Isaiah 13
Numbers 32:13
Resources
The Bible
Books by N.T. Wright
Books by Samuel Dakiaki
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The Altar and the Sledgehammer - Hanukkah 2017

The Altar and the Sledgehammer - Hanukkah 2017
The Altar and the Sledgehammer - Hanukkah 2017
Understanding Hanukkah: Dedication and Restoration
In this teaching, Hanukkah is explored as a season of dedication and remembrance of a significant event in Judea's history. The story begins around 323 BCE after the death of Alexander the Great, whose kingdom was divided among his generals, leading to conflicts between the Syrian Greek Seleucid Empire and the Egyptian Greek Ptolemaic Empire.
Judea, caught between these empires, eventually fell under the control of the Seleucid Empire. While the Judeans initially appreciated many aspects of Greek culture, tensions arose when Antiochus of Epiphanes became king. Antiochus challenged core Judean practices such as circumcision, Sabbath observance, and feast days, which were integral to their covenant with God.
The Seleucid Empire, under Antiochus Epiphanes, desecrated the temple in Jerusalem by sacrificing a pig on the altar and committing other unspeakable acts. This desecration was a pivotal moment, as the temple was considered the meeting place between heaven and earth, a place to experience God's presence and harmony.
The Maccabean Revolt and Rededication
In response to the Seleucid Empire's actions, a small group of priests known as the Hasmoneans revolted against the massive Seleucid army. After numerous battles, the Hasmoneans drove the Seleucid army out of Judea. Hanukkah celebrates the rededication of the temple after this revolt. The altar was rebuilt, and the temple, representing the central hub where heaven and earth met, was revitalized.
Judas Maccabee led the effort to cleanse and rebuild the sanctuary. The priests tore down the profaned altar and constructed a new one from unhewn stones, as directed by the Torah. The temple was rededicated on the 25th day of Kislev, the same day Antiochus Epiphanes had defiled it, marking a new beginning.
Symbolism of the Altar and Personal Transformation
The act of destroying the old, defiled altar is presented as a symbol of personal transformation and spiritual renewal. Just as the Maccabees destroyed the altar to remove the shame of its desecration, believers are called to address the shame and guilt in their lives that hinder their relationship with God.
Paul's teachings in Ephesians 4 are referenced, encouraging believers to put off the old self and renew their minds in the spirit, putting on the new self created in righteousness and holiness. This involves consciously rejecting the past and embracing the new creation offered in Christ.
Hanukkah and the Light of Yeshua
Hanukkah is framed as a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is a new dawn coming. God is greater than the challenges and shame in our lives, offering reconciliation and a fresh start. The rededication of the temple symbolizes the restoration of the meeting place between heaven and earth, and believers are invited to walk in the joy of God's kingdom.
The teaching connects Hanukkah to Yeshua (Jesus), highlighting a passage in John 10:22 where Yeshua is present at the Festival of Dedication in Jerusalem. This is linked to the messianic overtones of Hanukkah, a time when the land and people were suffering, and God provided the strength to overcome their enemies.
Yeshua is presented as the ultimate fulfillment of the messianic hope, the one who fully restores God's kingdom on earth. Just as Antiochus Epiphanes proclaimed himself to be God manifest in the flesh, Yeshua was the true Theos Epiphanes, God manifest in the flesh, present at the Feast of Dedication.
While the physical temple no longer exists, Yeshua is greater than the temple, representing the place where heaven meets earth. As followers of Yeshua, believers are charged to show forth the kingdom of God, reflecting His light and destroying the defiled altars of shame in their lives. Matthew Vander Els encourages believers to embrace this opportunity to be ambassadors of Christ, proclaiming the power of Yeshua to destroy the defiled altars in people's lives.
To find more Bible Teachings, click the link.
Application for Everyday Life
Identify and confront sources of shame: Recognize the areas in your life where shame and guilt from the past are hindering your relationship with God.
Embrace the new creation in Christ: Believe that you are a new creation, and your past does not define you.
Confess and receive forgiveness: If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Destroy the old altar: Make a conscious decision to tear down the altars in your life that remind you of your past sins and failures.
Reflect the light of Yeshua: Embody and reflect the light of Yeshua to the world.
Proclaim the kingdom of God: Embrace your role as an ambassador of Christ, sharing the message of hope, restoration, and salvation with others.
References
Ephesians 4
1 John 1:9
Isaiah 43:18
John 10:22
Ezekiel 34
Matthew 12:6
Resources
Psalm of Solomon
Apocrypha
Works by Josephus
The Bible
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Ghosts, Lizards, and Pearls - The Parable Series

Ghosts, Lizards, and Pearls - The Parable Series
Ghosts, Lizards, and Pearls - The Parable Series
In a message delivered at Founded In Truth Fellowship, the speaker, possibly Matthew Vander Els, explores the parables of Yeshua (Jesus) with a fresh perspective, encouraging listeners to reconsider familiar stories and discover deeper meanings relevant to their lives. The central theme revolves around identity, personal transformation, and the pursuit of the Kingdom of God. Drawing inspiration from C.S. Lewis's "The Great Divorce," the teaching uses vivid metaphors like "lizards," "ghosts," and "pearls" to illustrate the challenges and rewards of spiritual growth.
The Great Divorce: Ghosts and Spirits
The message references C.S. Lewis's "The Great Divorce," which presents a narrative about ghosts residing in a gray, joyless town, symbolizing a purgatorial or hellish state. These ghosts have the opportunity to journey to a beautiful, heavenly realm but find it painful and uncomfortable because they are not compatible with it. They carry burdens and attachments that prevent them from fully embracing the new reality.
In contrast, spirits inhabit the heavenly realm and try to help the ghosts, encouraging them to let go of their burdens and take steps toward the Kingdom. The story highlights the struggle between holding onto familiar comforts and embracing the transformative, yet potentially painful, process of spiritual growth.
The Lizard on Your Shoulder
A key illustration from "The Great Divorce" involves a man with a small red lizard on his shoulder, representing lust or any other persistent sin or negative influence. This lizard constantly whispers temptations and justifications, hindering the man's progress toward spiritual freedom. An angel offers to kill the lizard, but the man hesitates, rationalizing and delaying, unwilling to part with the familiar comfort, despite its harmful effects.
Ultimately, the man agrees, and the angel kills the lizard, resulting in both pain and transformation. The lizard transforms into a magnificent stallion, which the man then rides into the mountains, symbolizing his entry into the Kingdom, now in control of the beast. This powerful imagery emphasizes that overcoming our "lizards" – our persistent sins and negative influences – is essential for experiencing the fullness of God's Kingdom.
Parables of the Treasure and the Pearl
The teaching then shifts to two short parables from Matthew 13:44-46: the parable of the treasure hidden in a field and the parable of the pearl of great price. In the first parable, a man discovers a treasure in a field, buries it again, and then joyfully sells everything he owns to buy the field. In the second, a merchant finds a pearl of great value and sells all his possessions to acquire it.
These parables illustrate the immense value of the Kingdom of Heaven and the willingness to sacrifice everything to obtain it. The speaker emphasizes that the parables are about identity and transformation. The man who finds the treasure must sell all that he has to take ownership of the field, and the merchant must sacrifice his capital and identity as a merchant to possess the pearl. These are stories about people killing their lizards.
The speaker challenges traditional interpretations of the merchant as a positive figure, suggesting that in the first century, merchants often had a negative connotation, associated with exploiting others for personal gain. Thus, the merchant's willingness to sell everything highlights the transformative power of the pearl, leading him to abandon his former identity and way of life.
The Rich Young Ruler
To further illustrate this theme, the message references the story of the rich young ruler in Matthew 19. This man asks Yeshua how to obtain eternal life, and Yeshua initially instructs him to follow the commandments. The ruler claims to have already done so, but Yeshua then tells him that if he desires to be perfect, he must sell all his possessions and give to the poor.
The speaker points out that Yeshua's instruction is specific to this man, whose identity was wrapped up in his wealth. The commandment that Yeshua omits when listing the commandments is "Do not covet," suggesting that the man's "lizard" was his covetousness and attachment to his possessions. The man walks away sad because he was not willing to kill his lizard.
Peter's Restoration
The teaching contrasts the rich young ruler with the Apostle Peter, who denied Yeshua three times before the crucifixion. After the resurrection, Yeshua appears to Peter and asks him three times, "Do you love me?" Peter affirms his love, and Yeshua instructs him to feed His sheep, symbolizing Peter's restoration and renewed commitment to the Kingdom.
However, immediately after this profound moment, Peter turns and asks about the fate of another disciple, John. Yeshua rebukes him, saying, "If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me." This highlights the importance of focusing on one's own path and calling, rather than comparing oneself to others or being distracted by their journeys.
Application for Everyday Life
Identify Your "Lizard": Recognize the persistent sins, negative influences, or attachments that are holding you back from fully experiencing God's Kingdom.
Be Willing to Sacrifice: Understand that obtaining the treasure or the pearl may require selling everything, letting go of familiar comforts and identities.
Embrace Transformation: Be prepared for the pain and discomfort that may accompany spiritual growth and transformation.
Focus on Your Own Path: Avoid comparing yourself to others or being distracted by their journeys. Focus on your own calling and relationship with God.
Recognize God's Creation in You: Acknowledge that God created you with a specific purpose and plan for your life. Embrace your unique identity and vocation.
Live in the Eternal Now: Realize that eternal life and the Kingdom of God are not just future realities but are present experiences that begin now.
Participate in God's Creation: Recognize that God wants us to participate in the progress of creation by representing His Kingdom in our words and actions.
Conclusion
The message concludes by emphasizing that the question is not what you need to sell to enter the Kingdom, but what you are not selling to experience the fullness of God's Kingdom in your life. It encourages listeners to identify the "lizard" whispering in their ear and to be willing to let go of whatever is hindering their spiritual growth, trusting that the reward will be worth the sacrifice.
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References
Matthew 13:44
Matthew 13:45
Matthew 13:46
Matthew 19
John 21:20
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Small Stuff Matters - The Parable Series

Small Stuff Matters - The Parable Series
Small Stuff Matters - The Parable Series
Many people search for something bigger than themselves, a community rooted in truth and love, a place to worship. In this teaching, Matthew Vander Els from Founded in Truth Fellowship explores the idea that small things matter, using parables to illustrate how the Kingdom of Heaven manifests in unexpected, subtle ways.
The Significance of Small Beginnings
Yeshua's parables often use unremarkable examples like a mustard seed to describe the grand scope of God's work. These parables are meant for those with open hearts, eager to understand God's will. However, those with hardened hearts, focused solely on their own agendas, may find that these parables further harden their hearts. The message is clear: little things hold immense significance.
The Kite and the Bridge
In 1848, a 16-year-old named Holman Walsh flew a kite across the Niagara River as part of a competition. This seemingly insignificant act led to the construction of a suspension bridge connecting the U.S. and Canada. Politicians wanted to promote trade between the two countries, but they needed a way to establish a connection across the river. Initially, ideas like using a rocket or a cannon to carry a rope across were considered, but an engineer suggested a kite-flying contest inspired by Benjamin Franklin's experiments.
Walsh's successful kite flight allowed engineers to attach progressively larger strings, ropes, and cables until they could build a bridge capable of supporting a train and pedestrians. This bridge, completed in 1855 by John Augustus after Mr. Ellett Jr. resigned, stands as a testament to how small actions can lead to significant outcomes. If someone had seen the kite flying, they probably wouldn't have thought anything of it.
The Inklings
In Oxford, England, a pub known as the Eagle and Child (or Bird and Baby) has been a place of commerce since the 1600s. In the 20th century, it became a meeting place for Oxford professors known as the Inklings. Every Tuesday, they would gather to share and critique their literary works and ideas. Among them were John, who loved fantasy, and Clive, who studied medieval cultures and fairy tales.
These men, rivals and friends, are better known as J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, the authors of "Lord of the Rings" and "The Chronicles of Narnia." Both devout Christians, they impacted millions through their stories. To be a fly on the wall to hear Tolkien speak to Lewis about his character, a hobbit with big, hairy feet, named Frodo, or to hear Lewis speak passionately about Aslan, the Jesus-like lion, who would overcome death, become resurrected, and proclaim victory over evil, sin, and death in the land of Narnia. Their simple meetings, filled with discussions and debates, demonstrate how small, consistent actions can result in extraordinary creations. Someone walking by would not have thought anything of a bunch of professors sitting in a corner.
The Parables of the Mustard Seed and Leaven
Yeshua's parables in Matthew 13 carry profound messages about God's work in the world. These stories, though not literal, reveal the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven, or the Kingdom of God, which is about God arriving to do what the prophets said He was going to do. The Kingdom is not far off in time or place but is among us now, where God's will is done.
The Mustard Seed
The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed that someone plants in a field. Though tiny and easily overlooked, it grows into a large shrub where birds can nest. The parable emphasizes that the Kingdom starts small but has the potential for significant growth and impact on creation.
The Leaven
The Kingdom of Heaven is also like yeast that a woman mixes into a large amount of flour (around 50-60 pounds). The yeast, hidden within the dough, leavens the whole batch. The Greek word for "mixed" is "crypto", meaning to hide. This suggests that the Kingdom is not only small but also hidden, working subtly to transform everything.
The Kingdom's Unremarkable Manifestation
Yeshua told these parables because many Judeans expected God's kingdom to arrive with a dramatic revolt against the Romans. Instead, Yeshua describes a kingdom that manifests in itty-bitty and hidden ways. Those focused on outward signs may miss the subtle arrival of God's kingdom.
It is not our job to judge and condemn others but to offer hope and a kingdom invitation. If we are not looking for these mustard seed moments, we will miss them. The kingdom of God is not always a dramatic manifestation but can be a simple moment of connection, a phone call to a friend in need.
Yeshua's Example
Yeshua himself came from Nazareth, a small, insignificant town. Nathanael even asked, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" The biblical authors had to add, "a town in Galilee," because people wouldn't know where Nazareth was.
Yeshua chose fishermen, not religious elites, to be his first disciples. He then called Matthew, a tax collector despised by his own people for working with the Roman government. By eating with tax collectors and sinners, Yeshua challenged the Pharisees' notion of holiness. The Pharisees believed the table to be like the altar at the temple.
Yeshua's actions were revolutionary, proclaiming the arrival of God's kingdom and associating with misfits. He offered hope, not condemnation, and showed that the Kingdom of God can manifest in a meal at a kitchen table with a tax collector.
Living in the Kingdom Now
In the first century, rabbis would interpret the Torah, offering their disciples a "yoke" to follow. Yeshua's yoke is easy, redefining how we live out the scriptures. He showed what it looks like to bring the new creation into the old, to be ambassadors of the King.
Despite Yeshua's triumphant entry into Jerusalem, he was tried, beaten, and crucified. Yet, three days later, he was resurrected, demonstrating that God's kingdom does not always come with fireworks but through small, transformative acts.
Application for Everyday Life
Be Open to Small Moments: Recognize that significant opportunities for the Kingdom can arise in everyday situations.
Offer Hope, Not Condemnation: Like Yeshua, extend hope and mercy to those trapped in sin, rather than simply condemning them.
Live Out Kingdom Values Now: Practice forgiveness, reconciliation, and love, even when it's difficult, in anticipation of God's new creation.
Look for the Hidden Kingdom: Be aware that God's work may not always be obvious or dramatic but can be found in subtle, transformative acts.
Embrace Unlikely People: Follow Yeshua's example by associating with and offering opportunities to those whom society overlooks or despises.
Question with Purpose: Like biblical figures, question God with the intention of understanding His will and aligning with His kingdom.
Wear Mustard Seed Lenses: When you have a random conversation with a stranger, ask yourself, "Is this insignificant, or is it a mustard seed?"
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The Parable Series - The Truth Behind The Wheat and the Tares

The Parable Series - The Truth Behind The Wheat and the Tares
The Parable Series - The Truth Behind The Wheat and the Tares
In a sermon by Matthew Vander Els from Founded In Truth Fellowship, the parable of the wheat and the tares is explored, emphasizing the Kingdom of God and its implications for believers. The central theme revolves around understanding the Kingdom of God as something already present yet not fully realized, crashing into a world filled with brokenness and destruction.
The Parable: Sowing Seeds and the Enemy's Work
The parable, found in Matthew 13:24-30, tells of a farmer sowing good seed, but an enemy sows weeds (tares) among the wheat. The servants ask if they should pull out the weeds, but the farmer instructs them to let both grow together until the harvest. At harvest time, the weeds will be gathered and burned, while the wheat will be gathered into the barn.
Understanding the Kingdom
The Kingdom of God was highly anticipated in the first century, with people expecting God to send a king to rule over Israel and fulfill past promises. Yeshua (Jesus) proclaimed that the Kingdom of God was not a future event or a specific location but was happening "now," crashing into a broken world. This Kingdom is about God's plan of redemption, restoring heaven and earth to each other, despite humanity's eagerness to seek autonomy from God and not resist evil.
Historical Context: Revolutionaries and Violence
In the first century, many messianic figures sought to bring about God's kingdom on earth. Many believed this could be achieved through violence, attempting to overthrow the Romans and cleanse the land of sinners. However, Yeshua warned against using the tactics of the world (pagan tactics) to usher in the Kingdom of God. He asserted that the Kingdom of Heaven would progress slowly, with the world of brokenness existing alongside a world of healing until God declares the fullness of His reign.
The Nature of Weeds (Tares)
The weeds in the parable are identified as "Darnell" (zizania in Greek), a poisonous weed that was a significant problem in the Roman Empire. Darnell is almost indistinguishable from wheat before it blooms, symbolizing how evil can be difficult to discern. The servants' question, "Why are there weeds growing here?" reflects the frustration and anger people feel when evil and suffering exist in God's world.
The Farmer's Wisdom: Growing Wheat, Not Whacking Weeds
Yeshua's response to the problem of evil is not to focus on eliminating the weeds but to concentrate on growing the wheat. This means that believers should focus on embodying and representing the Kingdom of Heaven. Trying to eliminate the weeds (evil) can lead to uprooting the wheat (good). The focus should be on personal growth and representing God's kingdom, allowing God to deal with evil in His own time and way.
Practical Application: Being Wheat in a Weedy World
Focus on Personal Growth: Strive to embody the qualities of the Kingdom of God: love, mercy, forgiveness.
Discernment: Be aware that evil is an outsider and invader in God's kingdom.
Avoid Self-Righteousness: Recognize that the mission is not to judge and condemn others but to show them what the Kingdom of God looks like.
Be the Example: Instead of trying to eliminate those perceived as "weeds," show them what it means to be "wheat" by living out the values of the Kingdom.
Hope in Suffering: Remember that God has not forgotten those who are suffering and that He has promised a day when justice will prevail, and all pain and suffering will be no more.
Examine Your Heart: Ensure that your passions and energy are directed toward God's kingdom and not toward selfish agendas or worldly concerns.
Forgive and Love: Practice forgiveness and love, even toward enemies, because the Kingdom of God is characterized by reconciliation and not brokenness.
Live Above the Weeds: Refrain from engaging in behaviors and attitudes that are contrary to the values of the Kingdom, such as gossip, hatred, and violence.
The Promise of Vindication
Despite the presence of weeds (evil and suffering), God promises that there will be a day when He will deal with them. Those who remain faithful (the wheat) will be vindicated and will shine like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father (Matthew 13:43).
Living Out the Kingdom Now
The sermon encourages believers to live out the hope of God's kingdom now, forgiving, loving, and showing mercy. Just as Yeshua taught, we are called to represent God's kingdom in our actions and attitudes, trusting that God will ultimately bring about His justice and reign. This is not our garden to destroy, but to nurture and grow.
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References
Matthew 13:24-30
Matthew 13:43
Resources
The Bible
Foxe's Book of Martyrs
Square Foot Gardening
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Hearing & Listening - The Parable Series

Hearing & Listening - The Parable Series
Have you ever felt a yearning for something more profound, a sense of belonging within a community built on genuine principles of truth and love, and a desire to worship the ultimate authority? This teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship invites us into such a space, describing it as more than just a gathering but a family, a home built on the foundation of truth. The speaker, Matthew Vander Els, begins by sharing a humorous anecdote about a misunderstanding between a Polish man and his lawyer to illustrate a crucial point: the difference between merely hearing words and truly listening to understand their meaning.
This distinction between hearing and listening is the central theme of this message. We often hear sounds, including spoken words, but our minds may be preoccupied, preventing us from fully processing and comprehending what is being communicated. This can lead to miscommunication and conflict in our relationships with spouses, friends, and even when engaging with important messages.
The teaching then shifts to the importance of listening in the context of understanding the teachings of Jesus, referred to as Yeshua. The speaker highlights that Yeshua frequently used parables – stories with deeper meanings that require active engagement to grasp their significance. These parables are not simple tales with obvious morals; they are rich in detail and demand our energy and focus to truly understand the underlying message.
The focus then turns to Matthew chapter 13, where Yeshua shares the parable of the sower. This parable describes how different types of soil respond to seeds that are sown, illustrating the varying ways people receive and respond to the "word of the kingdom." The four types of soil represent different hearts and minds:
The path: Represents those who hear the word of the kingdom but do not understand it. As a result, the evil one easily takes away what was sown in their hearts.
The rocky ground: Symbolizes those who initially receive the word with joy, but lack deep roots. When faced with tribulation or persecution because of the word, they quickly fall away. Their faith is shallow and not deeply invested in the message of the kingdom.
The thorns: Represents those who hear the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, making it unfruitful. Other priorities and selfish desires overshadow the message of the kingdom.
The good soil: Represents those who hear the word and understand it because they truly listen. They bear fruit, yielding a significant harvest in their lives.
The speaker emphasizes that Yeshua deliberately spoke in parables for a reason. Quoting Isaiah, Yeshua explains that those whose hearts are hardened will hear but not understand, and see but not perceive. Their lack of willingness to truly listen reinforces the hardness of their hearts. Conversely, those with open hearts will receive more understanding and knowledge of the kingdom of God.
Central to understanding Yeshua's message in the parables is recognizing the theme of the kingdom of God or the kingdom of heaven. This was the core of Yeshua's preaching – the proclamation of God's reign and rule crashing into the world, bringing reconciliation, love, peace, and healing. The speaker notes that the kingdom is mentioned numerous times in the Gospels, highlighting its importance. The kingdom of heaven is where God reigns, and His rule overtakes everything, transforming the brokenness of the world. Yeshua announced that this kingdom was not just a future hope but was also present, "within you" and "here," beginning through Him and His followers.
To truly grasp the parables, it is crucial to have the right "lenses," meaning the perspective that the Bible itself provides. Just as wearing the wrong 3D glasses distorts a movie, imposing our own preconceived notions or focusing on pet topics can prevent us from seeing the true meaning of scripture. We must strive to understand the context and intent behind the words, rather than reading them through our own biased perspectives.
The speaker connects Yeshua's message to the Old Testament prophecies, specifically referencing Isaiah 35, which speaks of a new creation characterized by healing, restoration, and the end of exile from God. Yeshua's miracles and teachings were a direct fulfillment of these prophecies, demonstrating the arrival of God's kingdom. When John the Baptist questioned whether Yeshua was the Messiah, Yeshua pointed to these very acts of healing and restoration as evidence.
The foundation of our faith is not merely adhering to laws, but rather our allegiance to King Yeshua Messiah. While the Torah is valuable as the reign of God's law, it is not the foundation upon which we build our faith. The true foundation is Jesus Christ himself, the chief cornerstone. Our pursuit of faith is a pursuit of God, and the Bible serves as a tool to facilitate that relationship. When we fail to listen to Yeshua, we risk losing our connection to Him and potentially walking away from our faith.
Application for Everyday Life
Self-Examination: Regularly examine your heart and mind to determine what type of "soil" you represent in the parable of the sower. Are you truly understanding and acting upon the word of the kingdom?
Active Listening: Cultivate the discipline of active listening in all areas of life, including your relationship with God, your spouse, family, and friends. Pay attention not just to the words, but to the meaning and intent behind them.
Kingdom Focus: Prioritize the kingdom of God in your life. Let love, reconciliation, bravery, boldness, grace, and mercy – the characteristics of the kingdom – guide your actions and decisions.
Guard Your Heart: Be mindful of the "weeds" and "thorns" in your life – the cares of the world, selfishness, hatred, pride, unforgiveness, and the deceitfulness of riches – that can choke the growth of God's word in you. Actively work to remove these obstacles.
Cultivate Good Soil: Strive to be "good soil" by not only hearing the word but also understanding it through diligent listening and putting it into practice. This will lead to the production of spiritual fruit in your life.
Produce the Fruit of the Spirit: As described in Galatians 5:22-23, the evidence of good soil is the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Evaluate your life to see if these qualities are increasing.
Seek Understanding: Don't become complacent with familiarity. Approach scripture with a desire to truly understand it, removing any preconceived "lenses" that might distort its meaning.
Act on the Word: Hearing and understanding are not enough; we are called to act on the message of the kingdom, living as a new creation in a world of decay and unforgiveness.
Ultimately, the message calls for a conscious effort to move beyond passive hearing to active listening, allowing the transformative power of God's kingdom, centered in Yeshua the Messiah, to take root and bear fruit in our lives. We are challenged to examine ourselves and ensure that we are not just hearers of the word, but doers also, reflecting the reality of God's reign in our thoughts, words, and actions.
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References
Matthew 7: https://biblehub.com/matthew/7.htm
Matthew 11: https://biblehub.com/matthew/11.htm
Matthew 13: https://biblehub.com/matthew/13.htm
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