Founded in Truth Fellowship - Bible Teachings and Sermons

Idols in Orbit - Why We Put God in a Box • How Big is God? | Seek First the Kingdom of God | Sermon

Idols in Orbit - Why We Put God in a Box • How Big is God? | Seek First the Kingdom of God | Sermon
The Awe-Inspiring Vastness of Space and Our Limited Perception
Matthew Vander Els begins by sharing his excitement about the images from the James Webb telescope. He notes that while we have a conceptual understanding of the vastness of space, actually seeing the deep space images provides a more profound sense of its scale. The Hubble telescope, launched a long time ago, was a significant achievement, but the James Webb telescope is described as 100 times more powerful in reading infrared light, allowing us to see farther into deep space than ever before.
One of the first images shown is of the Southern Ring Nebula, also known as the Eight Burst Nebula, an expanding cloud of gas surrounding a dying star that is nearly half a light-year in diameter and 2,000 light-years away from Earth. To put this in perspective, traveling at the speed of light, which is the fastest speed possible, it would take six months to cross the nebula and 2,000 years to reach it from Earth, and this is still within our Milky Way galaxy.
Another image is of the Carina Nebula, specifically a section called the Cosmic Cliffs, located 8,500 light-years away, still within our galaxy. Then, the speaker discusses the Galaxy Cluster SMACS 0723, a deep field image containing countless galaxies, each similar to our Milky Way. A video is shown to illustrate the scale: the area of the sky captured in this image is equivalent to the size of a grain of sand held at arm's length.
This overwhelming sense of the universe's size can lead to a feeling called cosmic vertigo, a genuine sense of being overwhelmed by the sheer vastness of the cosmos. The speaker poses a thought-provoking question: if the size of the universe evokes such a profound feeling, why is a similar sense of being overwhelmed so unfamiliar when we consider the vastness of God?
Putting God in a Box: Control and Fear
The teaching then shifts to the idea that we often tend to put God in a box to make Him easier to worship. This desire to make God smaller can stem from a lack of trust in difficult circumstances or a yearning to be in control ourselves. The temptation in the Garden of Eden, to eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, was about wanting to be like God, ultimately driven by a desire for control.
The core reasons why we put God in a box are identified as control and fear, which are interconnected. We desire control because it makes us feel safe and secure, or it allows us to dominate others. This desire for control mirrors the original sin of reaching for the fruit to determine good and evil for ourselves. When we trade trust in God for knowledge of God, the result is often fear and uncertainty. Adam's response to God after eating the forbidden fruit – hiding because he was naked and afraid – illustrates this point.
This desire for control and fear has consequences, leading to conflict and violence in the world. The speaker uses the example of a mass shooting motivated by fear of losing power and privilege due to changing demographics. This echoes the fear that led Abraham and Isaac to lie. Sarah's decision to give Hagar to Abraham was also driven by a lack of trust in God's promise and a desire to take control.
Even though we may acknowledge God's goodness and control, we often struggle to trust Him in our circumstances, leading us to scramble for control. The speaker references Matthew 6:25-34 about not worrying, acknowledging how challenging it can be to fully embrace this trust. Ultimately, the message is one of trust: trusting that God is bigger than our problems and our fears.
The Idolatry of Control: Historical Examples
The teaching explores how humanity has historically tried to control or limit God. The Israelites at Mount Sinai were overwhelmed by God's presence and asked Moses to be their intermediary. However, when Moses was on the mountain for 40 days, the people, fearing an untamable God, pressured Aaron to create golden calves. They declared, "These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you out of the land of Egypt." Aaron even proclaimed a feast to the Lord, indicating they saw the calf as a representation of Yahweh, a tamed and controllable version of God they preferred. This highlights our tendency to desire a God we can manage rather than a limitless one.
The story of Jonah further illustrates this tendency to put God in a box. Jonah was displeased when God showed mercy to Nineveh, a city he believed deserved destruction. Jonah wanted God's grace and judgment to align with his own limited understanding and desires for control. He was angry that God broke out of his "box" of expected behavior and showed untamed grace and mercy.
Theological Debate vs. Obedience and Love
The speaker emphasizes the difference between knowing about God and truly trusting and obeying Him. The serpent in Genesis 3 engaged in a theological debate with Eve, treating God as a third party and twisting His words. Walter Brueggemann is quoted as saying, "The serpent is the first in the Bible to seem knowing and critical about God and to practice theology in the place of obedience."
Knowing the Bible is important, but it is meaningless without action rooted in trust and love. Using theological knowledge to control or condemn others is likened to being the serpent. True followers of Jesus are known by their love, a love that extends even to enemies. Jesus consistently broke societal standards by showing grace, mercy, and love to those considered outcasts.
We are called to be image bearers of God, speaking life and pouring out energy for the benefit of others, even our enemies. This means serving, not seeking to manipulate or control. Condemning from a distance is easier than building authentic relationships and showing genuine care. The world is waiting to see a God they can trust, and our actions are the "resume" of the God we serve.
Instead of using the Bible as a weapon to feel powerful, we should yield to God. The strategy Jesus taught for correcting the world is rooted in love, demonstrated through empathy and connection. We must practice catching ourselves when we judge and instead seek to love others. True theology leads to action and obedience.
Applications for Everyday Life
Recognize the tendency to control: Be aware of situations where you feel an overwhelming need to be in control, and consider if this stems from fear or a lack of trust in God.
Cultivate trust in God's bigness: When faced with overwhelming circumstances, remember the vastness of the universe and the even greater vastness of God's power and love.
Examine your theological lens: Ensure your understanding of God doesn't limit His power, grace, or mercy based on your comfort or preferences.
Prioritize obedience over mere knowledge: Put your faith into action by obeying God's commands, especially the command to love others.
Practice love and empathy: Engage with others, even those you disagree with, with love, empathy, and a desire for their well-being, rather than judgment and condemnation.
Serve others self-sacrificially: Look for opportunities to serve those in need, reflecting the love and actions of Jesus.
Be aware of hypocrisy: Check your own heart and actions for inconsistencies between your beliefs and behavior.
Focus on unity and peace: Make an effort to maintain unity and peace within the community of believers, bearing with one another in love.
Speak truth in love: When addressing issues or correcting others, ensure it is done with genuine love, care, and relationship.
Let go of fear: Trust in God's perfect love, which casts out fear, allowing you to love others more fully.
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The Image of God - Humans, Mission, and Jesus

The Image of God - Humans, Mission, and Jesus
In this insightful Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship, Matthew Vander Els explores the profound concept of humanity being created in the image of God. He begins by inviting listeners to consider their search for something bigger than themselves, a community rooted in truth and love, and a place to worship God. The teaching then delves into the overarching narrative of the Bible, suggesting that it culminates in the mission embodied by Jesus (Yeshua).
Vander Els emphasizes that the creation account in Genesis 1-3 is foundational, portraying God's initial design and intentions for humanity. He highlights the state of the earth before creation – tohu vavohu, often translated as formless and void, a desolate and watery chaos. God's method of creation is through speech, signifying the power and authority inherent in His word. The Hebrew word for create, bara, not only implies bringing something into existence but also giving it function and purpose.
The pivotal moment comes in Genesis 1:26-28, where God declares, "Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness." Vander Els stresses that this applies to all humanity, both male and female. He points out the shift from singular ("mankind," "his own image") to plural ("them," "he created them"), indicating that God desires a community of image-bearers who co-rule together. This community is commanded to be fruitful, increase in number, fill the earth, and subdue it, exercising dominion over creation. This subduing (kava) implies authoritative rule, akin to a king, and even suggests the trampling of sin.
To understand this role better, Vander Els examines the meaning of "image," the Hebrew word tselem. In the ancient world, tselem referred to statues, particularly idols representing pagan gods and statues of kings placed in temples or at borders to signify their authority. These statues were not seen as having power themselves but as representing and channeling the power of the deity or king. Vander Els argues that in the creation story, God doesn't create a physical statue of Himself but instead creates humanity to fill that role – to be His proxy on earth. Just as idols in pagan cultures were believed to be vessels for the spirit of the god, humans are intended to reflect God's will and character within creation.
The teaching further explores Genesis 2:7, where God forms man (Adam) from the dust (Adama) and breathes the breath of life (ruach) into his nostrils, making him a living being. This act of God molding man like a clay statue, a tselem, and then animating it with His spirit is presented as a profound act of significance. Vander Els emphasizes that this significance extends to all humans, regardless of their abilities or background, their purpose being to reflect God's reign and creative motives. The intention was for these image-bearers to fill the earth in unity, reflecting God's will towards each other and creation.
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Application for Everyday Life:
Recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every person you encounter, understanding that they are created in God's image. This should influence how you treat and speak to everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Act as God's representative in your sphere of influence, reflecting His love, justice, and compassion in your actions and decisions.
Use your words to speak life, encouragement, and truth. Be mindful of the power of your tongue and avoid using it to condemn or belittle others.
Cultivate empathy and seek to understand the perspectives of those who hold different views. Engage in conversations with a genuine desire to listen and understand their concerns.
Look for opportunities to actively participate in creating a more life-giving world. This could involve supporting organizations that care for the vulnerable, volunteering your time, or advocating for policies that promote human flourishing.
Be self-sacrificial in your efforts to help others, mirroring God's outward-pouring nature.
Stand up against injustice and advocate for those who are oppressed or marginalized, reflecting God's concern for the cries of the oppressed.
Remember that your mission as an image-bearer extends beyond personal piety to actively engaging with the world around you.
Continuously strive to reflect the perfected image of God, which is Jesus Christ, in all aspects of your life.
Be aware of the tendency to weaponize your beliefs and instead focus on extending grace and understanding to others.
References:
Genesis 1:26-28 (Biblehub)
Psalm 33:6 (Biblehub)
Habakkuk 2:18 (Biblehub)
Jeremiah 10 (Biblehub)
Genesis 2:7 (Biblehub)
Ezekiel 37 (Biblehub)
Psalm 8 (Biblehub)
James 3:10 (Biblehub)
Ephesians 1:9 (Biblehub)
Hebrews 1 (Biblehub)
Matthew 25 (Biblehub)
Books and Resources Mentioned:
Breath of Life, Speech, Gender and Authority in the Garden of Eden
Books on this topic
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What is the Temple - The Biblical Theme

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What is the Gospel?

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What is the Sabbath?

What is the Sabbath?
In this Bible teaching delivered by Matthew Vander Els at Founded in Truth Fellowship, the concept of the Sabbath is explored as more than just a weekly day of rest. It is presented as a central theme woven throughout the entire biblical narrative, beginning with creation and pointing towards an ultimate, eternal rest found in Jesus Christ (Yeshua). The message emphasizes understanding the Sabbath not merely as a commandment to be followed, but as a profound invitation to enter into God's rest, reflecting His character and His plan for humanity.
The teaching begins by examining the creation account in Genesis 1 and Genesis 2. God created the heavens and the earth in six days and rested on the seventh day, making it holy. Notably, unlike the conclusions of the first six days ("And there was evening and morning"), the seventh day has no such ending, suggesting an ongoing, eternal nature of God's rest. This initial act of divine rest introduces the concept of the Sabbath from the very beginning of the biblical story.
Furthermore, the speaker highlights the unique portrayal of humanity in Genesis 1. Instead of being created as slaves to work for the gods, as in other ancient Near Eastern creation myths like the Babylonian Enuma Elish, humans are created in God's image (the Hebrew word "Selim") to be His representatives and even to co-rule over creation. This sets a stark contrast where the biblical God desires relationship and shared dominion with humanity, rather than servitude.
The Sabbath commandment is formally introduced to the Israelites in Exodus 16 in the context of gathering manna, where they were instructed to gather twice as much on the sixth day because the seventh day would be a Sabbath rest. Later, it is included in the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20, with the justification that God rested on the seventh day after creating the world in six days. Deuteronomy 5 provides a slightly different reason, linking the Sabbath to the remembrance of Israel's liberation from slavery in Egypt. Both reasons work together, highlighting God's example and His act of redemption.
Application for Everyday Life:
Recognize the human need for rest in a society that often glorifies constant work and productivity. The Sabbath provides an opportunity to cease from labor and reflect.
Find your ultimate rest in Jesus Christ. He is presented as the Lord of the Sabbath, and true spiritual rest is found in a relationship with Him.
Remember your freedom from spiritual "slavery". Just as the Sabbath reminded Israel of their liberation from Egypt, it can remind believers of their freedom from sin and the burdens of striving for self-righteousness.
Look forward to the eternal rest promised in God's kingdom. The weekly Sabbath can serve as a foretaste of this ultimate rest.
View the Sabbath as an invitation to dwell with God. It is a time to focus on spiritual connection and communion with Him.
Consider the broader implications of Sabbath rest for your life and community. This includes examining whether you are contributing to exploitation or injustice and whether you are caring for the vulnerable. True Sabbath rest should align with God's character of justice and mercy.
Examine your motivations for observing any day of rest. Is it out of obligation to a past law, or is it an expression of the present reality of rest found in Christ and a longing for the future eternal Sabbath?
To find more Bible Teachings, click the link.
References:
Bible Verses:
Genesis 1
Genesis 2
Exodus 16
Exodus 20
Deuteronomy 5
Leviticus 23
Leviticus 25
Leviticus 26
Numbers 7
Psalm 95
Isaiah 56
Isaiah 61
Jeremiah 31
Ezekiel 36
Luke 4
Hebrews 3
Hebrews 4
2 Chronicles 36
Judges 19
1 Kings
Books and Resources:
The Bible by various authors
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Pentecost and the Whole House of Israel • What is Shavuot? | Shavuot and Jesus | The Lost Tribes

Pentecost and the Whole House of Israel • What is Shavuot? | Shavuot and Jesus | The Lost Tribes
This Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship, delivered by Matthew Vander Els, explores the deep connections between the Jewish festival of Shavuot and the Christian celebration of Pentecost. It delves into the historical context of Shavuot, its prophetic significance in the Old Testament, and its ultimate fulfillment in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Acts chapter 2.
The Jewish Roots of Pentecost: Shavuot
The teaching begins by establishing that Pentecost, which occurred 50 days after Passover, is the Greek name for the Hebrew festival of Shavuot, meaning "weeks." Shavuot was one of the three major pilgrimage festivals in the Jewish religious calendar, alongside Passover and Sukkot (the Feast of Tabernacles). During these festivals, the Israelites were commanded to travel to Jerusalem and bring first fruit offerings to the Lord as a sign of gratitude for the harvest.
Deuteronomy chapter 16 describes these three pilgrimage festivals, highlighting that Shavuot took place in the summer and involved offering the first fruits of the wheat harvest. This festival was observed 50 days after the offering of the first barley harvest during Passover week, hence the name Pentecost, derived from the Greek word for fifty. The speaker emphasizes the significance of this offering, explaining that in an agrarian society, the harvest was essential for life, and a successful harvest was seen as a direct blessing from God. Bringing the first fruits was an act of thanksgiving for God's faithfulness in providing rain and sustenance. This practice is presented as the root of the modern tradition of tithing, where a portion of one's provision is given back as an expression of gratitude.
The celebration of Shavuot was a time of joy, dancing, and a sense of divine peace. Families would create beautiful baskets to carry their offerings to the temple in Jerusalem, highlighting the importance and celebratory nature of the event. The speaker suggests that modern society might have a harder time fully grasping the profound gratitude associated with these harvest festivals, given our less direct connection to agricultural cycles.
Prophetic Promises and the Kingdom of Israel
The teaching then shifts to the Old Testament prophecies concerning the future of Israel. After the reign of King Solomon, the unified kingdom of Israel split into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Both nations fell into idolatry and disobedience, leading to their eventual exile by the Assyrian and Babylonian empires. During this period of exile, prophets like Hosea, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Malachi arose, carrying messages of repentance and future hope.
The prophecies spoke of a time when God would regather the scattered Israelites and restore the kingdom under a shepherd king from the lineage of David. Ezekiel chapter 34 depicts God as the ultimate shepherd who would rectify the failures of the earthly kings and care for his people. Verse 23 of Ezekiel 34 specifically mentions that David would be the shepherd, raising the question of whether this refers to the historical David or a future descendant with divine authority. The speaker clarifies that the prophets often united human royalty with divine control, indicating a future king from David's line who would rule with God's authority.
Ezekiel chapter 37, with the vision of the valley of dry bones, further emphasizes the promise of restoration and resurrection for the defeated and scattered people of Israel. Verse 24 of Ezekiel 37 reiterates that a descendant of David would be king over them, uniting them under one shepherd and establishing an everlasting covenant of peace. These prophecies instilled hope in the exiled Judeans for a future return to their land, the rebuilding of the temple, and the reestablishment of their kingdom under a righteous king.
The Disciples' Question and the Arrival of Pentecost
Even after the ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus (Yeshua), the expectation of a restored kingdom of Israel remained strong among his followers. As recorded in Acts chapter 1, the disciples asked Jesus, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom of Israel?" This question reveals their continued focus on the prophetic promises of national restoration. Jesus responded that it was not for them to know the timing but redirected their attention to the coming of the Holy Spirit, through whom they would receive power to be his witnesses throughout the world.
Acts chapter 2 recounts the events of Pentecost, which occurred while the disciples were gathered in Jerusalem. Significantly, this coincided with the Jewish festival of Shavuot, a time when devout Jews from "every nation under heaven" would have been in Jerusalem for the pilgrimage. Instead of the people bringing offerings to God, God poured out his Holy Spirit upon the believers. This was manifested by the miraculous ability of the disciples to speak in other languages, allowing the diverse crowd to hear the wonders of God declared in their own native tongues.
Pentecost: Fulfillment and New Creation
The speaker highlights Luke's deliberate emphasis on the diverse national origins of the people present in Jerusalem, listing 15 different regions. This emphasis mirrors Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 11, which foretold the regathering of Israel from the nations to which they had been scattered. The miracle of speaking in tongues served as a powerful sign, connecting the scattered Judeans in a new and profound way.
Peter's sermon in Acts chapter 2 explains the meaning of these events. He declares that Jesus is the promised shepherd king, risen from the dead and exalted to the right hand of God, reigning even now. Peter argues that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the gathering of people from all nations signify the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies concerning the new covenant, the ingathering of exiles, and the reign of the Davidic king. He proclaims that Jesus is the one who brings this reconstitution of Israel, not as a political entity but as a spiritual body. The new temple being raised up is not a physical building but a growing community of believers indwelt by God's Spirit, destined to expand throughout the world.
To find more Bible Teachings, click the link.
Application for Everyday Life
Cultivate Gratitude: Reflect on God's provision in your life, both material and spiritual, and express gratitude like the Israelites bringing their first fruits.
Embrace Diversity: Recognize and value the diversity within the body of Christ and in the wider world, understanding that the Holy Spirit works across cultures and languages.
Seek the Holy Spirit: Acknowledge the Holy Spirit as a gift that brings life, power, and guidance, drawing you closer to Jesus.
Be an Ambassador of Life: Allow the Holy Spirit to work through you to bring forth spiritual life, demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit in your interactions with others.
Participate in the Kingdom: Recognize that the kingdom of God is a growing reality that you are invited to be a part of.
Repent and Be Transformed: Respond to the work of the Holy Spirit by turning away from sin and embracing the forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ.
Find Unity in Christ: Despite differences, strive for unity with fellow believers through the common bond of the Holy Spirit.
Offer Hope in Chaotic Times: Trust that the Holy Spirit can bring order and life to the chaotic areas of your life.
Use Your Abilities for Good: Use your abilities, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to benefit others and further God's kingdom.
Be a Witness: Share the message of hope, grace, forgiveness, and mercy that is found in Jesus Christ.
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Grace of the Torah - Discovering the Gospel in the Law • Messianic Teaching about the Torah | Jesus

Grace of the Torah - Discovering the Gospel in the Law • Messianic Teaching about the Torah | Jesus
Understanding the Torah: More Than Just Laws
In a recent teaching at Founded in Truth Fellowship, the speaker, Matthew Vander Els, delved into the profound significance of the Torah, the first five books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Often referred to as "the law," the speaker argued that viewing the Torah solely through the lens of legislation misses its deeper purpose and genre. He suggested that the Torah is primarily a narrative, a story of God's interaction with humanity, beginning with creation and tracing His covenant relationship with Abraham and the nation of Israel.
Many individuals, particularly those raised in church traditions, might have been taught to overlook much of the Torah, focusing only on a few key stories. However, the speaker contended that there is immense value and understanding to be gained from exploring these foundational texts. While acknowledging the presence of numerous laws and commandments within the Torah, he emphasized that these laws are embedded within the overarching narrative and serve to contribute to the unfolding story of God's redemptive plan.
The speaker highlighted a crucial question that arises from the study of the Torah: What is its central message or point? He discussed common misconceptions, such as the idea that the Torah was a means for the Israelites to achieve salvation through obedience. He countered this by citing the Apostle Paul's teaching that Abraham was justified by faith, not by adherence to the law. Another perspective suggests that the law was given to demonstrate humanity's inability to keep it, thus highlighting the need for a savior. While acknowledging the role of the law in revealing sin and the necessity of God's grace, the speaker cautioned against viewing it solely as an oppressive burden that God intended to inflict upon Israel.
God's Grace in the Torah: A Privilege, Not a Burden
The speaker passionately argued that the Torah reveals God's grace and that obedience to it was intended to be a response to that grace, not a means of earning it. He drew attention to Moses' words in Deuteronomy, where he emphasizes that the decrees and laws were given so that Israel might live and be seen by other nations as wise and understanding. Moses declared that other nations would be envious of Israel's privilege of having their God so near to them and possessing such righteous decrees and laws. This perspective reframes the commandments not as a heavy burden, but as a distinctive privilege granted by a loving and intimate God.
To illustrate this point, the speaker contrasted the Israelite experience with an ancient Sumerian prayer from a pagan worshipper. This prayer revealed a deep sense of sin, accountability to unknown deities, and a desperate plea for pacification from divine wrath, without any clear understanding of the offense committed or how to find resolution. The speaker highlighted the stark difference: Israel had a clear knowledge of Yahweh's will, a God who spoke to them, listened to them, and provided a way for reconciliation despite their transgressions. This intimate relationship and clear guidance were the very reasons why other nations would envy Israel.
The key to understanding the meaning behind the Torah's statutes and commandments, according to the speaker, is grace. It was by God's grace that these laws, saturated with righteousness, were given to Israel. They served to reveal God's character, expose sin, and show how sin could be removed through the provisions within the Torah, such as Yom Kippur, allowing for a relationship of peace and confidence with God.
Deuteronomy: Passing on the Legacy of Grace
The speaker focused particularly on the book of Deuteronomy, which means "second law" or "repeated law." This book recounts Moses' final address to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land, summarizing their journey from Egypt and reminding them of God's acts and commands. Moses foresaw a time when future generations would ask their parents, "Why do we do these things?" These children, having no direct memory of the Exodus or the covenant at Sinai, would observe their parents living differently from the surrounding cultures and would seek to understand the meaning behind their traditions and practices.
Moses provides the answer to this crucial "why" question in Deuteronomy. He instructs the Israelites to tell their children that their unique lifestyle and obedience to God's commands are a response to God's saving power and grace. They were to remember and recount how God rescued them from slavery in Egypt, performed great wonders on their behalf, and brought them out to fulfill His promises. The purpose of the Torah was not for salvation, as the Israelites had already been saved by God's grace. Rather, obedience was a demonstration of their love and gratitude for His redemptive acts.
The speaker drew a parallel to the New Testament, highlighting John 1:16-17, which states that grace and truth came through Jesus Christ, emphasizing that this was not in opposition to the grace already present in the giving of the law through Moses. Just as ancient Israel celebrated and embraced the Torah as a privilege and a response to God's grace, believers in Jesus should also find joy in obedience as a response to God's ultimate gospel salvation.
The crucial message, the speaker emphasized, is the transmission of the testimony of God's supreme grace to the next generation. Forgetting God's goodness, as seen in Judges 2, leads to a generation that does not know the Lord or His grace and seeks fulfillment elsewhere. The speaker then shared a modern rephrasing by Old Testament scholar Daniel Block of how a believer might answer the "why" question today: we live this way because we were slaves to sin, but the Lord rescued us through the work of Christ. Our obedience is an expression of our fear and love for Christ, for our good and survival as His people.
Application for Everyday Life
Reflect on God's saving grace: Regularly remember and appreciate the ways God has shown grace in your life, both historically and personally. Let this gratitude be the primary motivation for your actions.
See obedience as a response, not a burden: View God's commands and principles not as a restrictive checklist, but as an opportunity to express your love and thankfulness for His salvation.
Engage with the Torah: Don't neglect the first five books of the Bible. Approach them as a narrative that reveals God's character and His initial covenant relationship with His people, understanding the laws within this historical context.
Answer the "why" for the next generation: Be prepared to explain to your children and others the reasons behind your faith and lifestyle, emphasizing God's grace and the saving work of Jesus Christ as the foundation.
Live as a witness to God's nearness: Strive to live in a way that reflects the intimacy and accessibility of God in your life, so that others might see and be drawn to Him.
Pursue justice, love, and mercy: Let your actions be motivated by the gracious character of God, extending these qualities to those around you, even when it goes against the norms of the world.
Find joy in worship and generosity: Participate in community and support causes that align with God's kingdom out of a spirit of gratitude for all that He has done.
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Divine Nurturer - Maternal Depictions of God in the Bible

Divine Nurturer - Maternal Depictions of God in the Bible
This Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship explores a fascinating and often underemphasized aspect of God's character as revealed in the Scriptures: His maternal nature. Matthew Vander Els leads this insightful discussion, drawing attention to the various ways the biblical authors used metaphors and similes to depict Yahweh not only with traditionally masculine attributes but also with the tenderness, compassion, and nurturing qualities associated with motherhood.
The Comfort of a Mother
The teaching begins by highlighting the powerful imagery in Isaiah 66:13, where God speaks of comforting His people as a mother comforts her son. This simile paints a vivid picture of God's ultimate care and compassion, suggesting a deep and personal level of solace that resonates with the universal experience of a mother's embrace. In times of distress, anxiety, or shame, this depiction offers a profound sense of security and reassurance, akin to the safety a child feels in the arms of a loving mother figure.
Metaphors and Similes: Unveiling God's Complexity
To understand these maternal depictions, it's crucial to recognize the biblical practice of using metaphors and similes to articulate the ineffable nature of God. Just as God is portrayed as a mighty man of war (Exodus 15:3), a strong fortress, a protective shield, and a caring shepherd, these images help us grasp different facets of His being and His relationship with humanity. These literary devices allow us to experience God through our imagination, connecting with abstract concepts like love, protection, and care in tangible ways.
God as the Nurturing Mother in Hosea
The book of Hosea provides particularly striking examples of God's maternal characteristics. In Hosea 11:1-4, the feelings of Yahweh toward Israel are depicted as those of a mother teaching her son to walk, embracing him with tender love, healing him when ill, and feeding him when hungry. These were tasks typically assigned to mothers in Israelite households, making the comparison deeply resonant with the audience. Even amidst Israel's unfaithfulness, God's compassion arises, echoing a mother's unwavering love for her child, a love that doesn't want to see her child stumble or suffer.
Moses' Plea: God as the Bearing and Nursing Parent
The narrative in Numbers 11:12 offers another compelling image. Here, Moses, overwhelmed by the burden of leading the Israelites, asks God, "Did I conceive all these people? Did I give birth to them, that you should tell me, 'Carry them in your arms as a nursing mother carries her infant'?" Moses frames God as the one who essentially "birthed" the nation and is responsible for their care, likening God's nurturing role to that of a nursing mother carrying her baby with tenderness and provision.
The Father Who Gives Birth in Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy 32:18 presents a seemingly paradoxical yet profound depiction: "You deserted the Rock who fathered you; you forgot the God who gave you birth." This verse uses the imagery of both fatherhood and motherhood to describe God's role in the creation and sustenance of Israel. The offense of Israel's apostasy is magnified by comparing it to a rebellious child who forgets both parents, highlighting the seriousness of breaking covenant with the One who brought them into being.
The Unforgettable Love of a Nursing Mother in Isaiah
Isaiah 49:15 poses a powerful rhetorical question: "Can a mother forget her nursing child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb?" God's answer is a resounding no, emphasizing that even if such an impossible event were to occur, He would never forget His people. This metaphor speaks not just of unconditional love but of a deep physical connection and an inherent impulse to nurture and protect that is stronger than any human bond.
God's Labor of Love in Isaiah
In Isaiah 42:14, God describes His intervention on behalf of His people using the intense imagery of a woman in childbirth: "For a long time I have kept silent; I have been quiet and restrained myself. But now, like a woman in labor, I will cry out; I will gasp and pant." This depiction conveys the intensity, determination, and even the pain God is willing to endure to bring His children home, overcoming any obstacle with the fierce protectiveness of a mother in labor.
Shelter Under Divine Wings
The imagery of a mother bird sheltering her young under her wings is another recurring maternal motif. While not explicitly stating "God is a mother bird," the concept is evident in verses like Psalm 91:4 ("He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge") and is powerfully echoed in Jesus' lament over Jerusalem in Matthew 23:37: "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!" This tender image speaks of God's desire to nurture, protect, and keep His children safe in His care, just as a hen instinctively shields her chicks from danger.
Contentment in God's Presence
Finally, Psalm 131:2 offers a picture of serene dependence: "But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me." This analogy portrays a soul completely at peace and content in God's presence, finding comfort and security in His love, much like a weaned child rests peacefully with its mother, no longer needing constant nourishment but simply desiring the closeness and warmth of her embrace.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship beautifully illuminates the maternal depictions of God in the Bible. Through vivid metaphors and similes, Scripture reveals a God who comforts like a mother, nurtures with tenderness, protects with fierce love, and yearns for His children to find peace in His embrace. Recognizing these often-overlooked aspects of God's character offers profound comfort, broadens our understanding of His love, and invites us into a deeper, more intimate relationship with our Divine Nurturer.
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References
Isaiah 66:13
Exodus 15:3
Hosea 11:1-4
Books and Resources
The Bible
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Unclean Food and the Gospel - Sabbath Service

Unclean Food and the Gospel - Sabbath Service
Introduction
This Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship, delivered during a Sabbath service, explores the topic of clean and unclean foods as outlined in the Old Testament and their relevance in light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The speaker, likely Matthew Vander Els, guides the congregation through the historical context of these dietary laws, their significance for ancient Israel, and how they are understood by believers in Jesus today. The teaching emphasizes that while the community at Founded in Truth values and participates in many of these commandments, their primary focus is on the deeper spiritual lessons and the heart of the Gospel message.
The Torah's Dietary Laws
The teaching begins by referencing the Torah, specifically the books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy, which contain detailed instructions regarding which animals were considered clean and permissible for the Israelites to eat, and which were unclean and forbidden. Examples of unclean animals mentioned include pigs, whose meat and carcasses were not to be consumed or even touched. In contrast, animals living in the water were considered clean if they possessed both fins and scales. This detail is explored, noting that some creatures, like catfish and adult swordfish, would not have met these criteria. Certain birds, particularly birds of prey, were also listed as abhorrent and not to be eaten. Interestingly, the laws regarding insects made a distinction between those that fly and those that hop. Winged insects that walk on all fours were generally considered abhorrent, except for those with jointed legs above their feet for hopping, such as locusts, crickets, and grasshoppers, which were permitted.
The speaker explains that God gave these boundary laws to separate Israel from the surrounding nations, establishing them as a holy people. The concept of holiness (kedushah) is central, as God, being holy, expected His covenant people to reflect His likeness. The act of eating certain animals was presented as something that would distort this sense of holiness. While the community at Founded in Truth values the Torah and finds meaning in participating in these laws as an act of honoring God, it is clarified that this participation is not for salvational benefits or blessings, as blessings are understood to come to both the good and the wicked. Instead, they choose to engage with these commandments, like the Sabbath and the feast days, as a way to immerse their lives in the Word of God and connect with a rhythm of life based in Scripture. They believe these practices, including not eating certain meats, serve as a form of worship and a remembrance that God invites them to His table.
The New Testament Perspective: Mark 7
The discussion then shifts to the New Testament and how Jesus addressed the concepts of clean and unclean. The Gospel of Mark chapter 7 is highlighted, where the Pharisees confront Jesus because His disciples did not wash their hands before eating. The Pharisees viewed this as a violation of their interpretation of the Torah, believing it made them unclean and defiled the community. However, Jesus rebukes them, stating that they have made the word of God ineffective through their traditions or interpretations.
Quoting Mark 7:14-23, Jesus teaches that nothing from outside a person can defile them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person's heart that defiles them, listing evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness as the true sources of uncleanness. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus is reframing the understanding of purity, shifting the focus from external rituals to the internal state of the heart.
The New Testament Perspective: Acts 10
Another key passage discussed is Acts chapter 10, which recounts the vision of Peter. In this vision, a large sheet filled with all kinds of animals, reptiles, and birds descends from heaven, and a voice commands Peter to kill and eat. Peter, being a faithful Jew, objects, stating that he has never eaten anything impure or unclean. The voice responds, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." This vision occurs three times before the sheet is taken back to heaven.
The speaker argues that this vision is not primarily about making all foods permissible to eat. Instead, it is interpreted as a symbolic message about the inclusion of Gentiles in the Gospel. Immediately after the vision, Peter is called to the house of Cornelius, a Gentile, which would have been considered ritually unclean for a Jew at that time. Peter's realization is that just as God declared these animals clean in the vision, He is also declaring that Gentiles are no longer to be considered unclean and are also invited into His kingdom.
Application for Everyday Life
Prioritize the condition of your heart over external actions when it comes to true righteousness.
Practice humility and avoid haughtiness when observing religious practices.
Extend grace and avoid judging those who do not adhere to the same religious convictions.
Focus on producing the kingdom of God through love and service, rather than merely prescribing rules to others.
Recognize that God's love and mercy extend to all whom He chooses, regardless of your personal preferences or judgments.
View participation in biblical commandments as an act of worship and remembrance, not as a means of earning salvation.
Engage in self-reflection to identify and address any bitterness, pride, or other negative traits in your heart.
Focus on the weightier matters of the kingdom, such as love, justice, and mercy.
Be mindful of how your zeal for religious dogma might lead to judging others who are not part of your covenant community.
Extend generosity and service to others, even if their choices differ from your own.
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References
Mark 2
Mark 7
Acts 10
Books and Resources Mentioned
NIV Application Commentary on Deuteronomy by Daniel Block
Interpretation Commentary Series on Leviticus by Daniel Block
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Yeshua’s Passover

Yeshua's Passover
The Foundation of Redemption
This Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship centers on the profound significance of Passover and its reinterpretation by Yeshua (Jesus) during the Last Supper. The speaker emphasizes that the Passover event is not merely a historical commemoration but the foundational narrative for the entire story of Israel in both the Old and New Testaments. The Exodus from Egypt, brought about by God's mighty acts, including the final plague of the firstborn, is presented as a pivotal moment where God redeemed a people for Himself and initiated a covenant with them, leading them towards the promised land of rest.
The teaching highlights how the biblical authors intentionally weave themes and phrases throughout scripture, connecting the creation story in Genesis, Noah's Ark, and the Exodus. For instance, the splitting of the Red Sea is likened to the creation where God's Spirit moved over the waters and dry land appeared. The ultimate goal of creation, God dwelling with humanity in a place of rest, is echoed in the promised land and later in the temple.
A Timeless Tradition with Evolving Meaning
The Passover Seder, a tradition spanning approximately 3,500 years, is described as a meal centered around storytelling, specifically the origin story of God's people. The speaker recounts a vibrant Passover celebration with children asking the traditional four questions, underscoring God's intention for this meal to be a teaching opportunity for future generations, ingraining in them the narrative of suffering, oppression, God's salvation, justice, and redemption through the blood of the lamb.
The gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John all emphasize the final week of Yeshua's life, dedicating a significant portion of their narratives to this period, particularly His triumphant entry into Jerusalem and the events leading up to His crucifixion. The Last Supper, occurring during the Passover, is presented not as a theological lecture but as a meal through which Yeshua explained the meaning of His impending death to His closest followers.
Reframing the Passover: Yeshua's Body and Blood
During the Last Supper, Yeshua radically reframed the traditional elements of the Passover Seder. Instead of the usual setting with nice chairs and tables depicted in Renaissance art, the historical context suggests a low table where participants reclined, a common practice during Roman feasts. The speaker notes that Yeshua reclining with sinners and tax collectors earlier in His ministry foreshadows the intimate table fellowship of the Last Supper.
As they were eating the Passover meal, Yeshua took the unleavened bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, "**This is my body**." This declaration was revolutionary, as never before in the Passover tradition had the bread been associated with a person's body. The speaker explains the symbolism of the bread: just as bread provides life and sustenance, Yeshua's body, which would be beaten, sliced, and subjected to a "furnace of flames" (referring to His suffering), would also give life.
Similarly, after giving thanks for the cup of wine (likely the third cup in the traditional Seder), Yeshua gave it to His disciples, saying, "**This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins**." This act connected the wine, traditionally a symbol of celebration and God's redemptive power during the Exodus, to the spilling of His own blood, establishing a new covenant for the forgiveness of sins. This reframing transformed the Passover from a commemoration of past deliverance to a present and future reality of freedom from sin through Yeshua's sacrifice.
The speaker mentions Rabbi Gamaliel's teaching in the Mishnah that a legitimate Passover Seder must include matzah (unleavened bread), moror (bitter herbs), and the (represented) lamb. While the gospel accounts do not explicitly mention a lamb at the Last Supper, the speaker suggests that Yeshua Himself became the lamb of the new Passover. The bitter herbs, symbolizing the bitterness of slavery in Egypt, are reinterpreted to also represent the bitterness of sin and oppression in our own lives, even the "Pharaoh within us."
Participating in the New Passover: Communion
The Last Supper, or Communion (also called the Eucharist), is presented as a continuation and re-imaging of the Passover. By partaking in the bread and the cup, believers participate in Yeshua's death, burial, and resurrection. This act is not just a remembrance of a past event but a present reality where individuals acknowledge their own "Egypt" – the things they were enslaved to before encountering Yeshua, such as selfishness, bitterness, and the pursuit of worldly desires.
The speaker emphasizes that Yeshua's message transcends an "us versus them" mentality, focusing instead on the universal human condition of being trapped and oppressed by sin. Evil originates from within the human heart, manifesting as evil thoughts, lust, pride, gossip, and more. Yeshua's mission was to provide a remedy for this slavery through His life, offering a glimpse of heaven; His death, taking the place of humanity; and His resurrection, offering new life in an eternal kingdom.
The choice presented to believers is whether to remain in the "Egypt" of their former lives, enslaved to sin, or to embrace the freedom offered through Yeshua, the Lamb who provides forgiveness. The act of taking the bread and the cup is a conscious decision to participate in this new covenant and align with God's kingdom. The absence of a formal distribution of communion during the teaching is intentional, allowing for personal reflection and a deliberate choice to partake in this symbolic meal, acknowledging one's heart condition and desire for freedom from sin.
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Applications for Everyday Life
Reflect on your personal "Egypt": Identify the areas in your life where you feel enslaved or oppressed, whether by external circumstances or internal struggles like selfishness, bitterness, or unhealthy habits.
Recognize the bitterness of sin: Just as the bitter herbs remind us of the suffering of slavery, acknowledge the destructive nature and consequences of sin in your own life and the lives of others.
Embrace Yeshua as the Passover Lamb: Understand that Yeshua's sacrifice provides the ultimate redemption from sin and death, just as the blood of the lamb protected the Israelites from the final plague.
Participate in Communion with intention: When partaking in the bread and the cup, do so with a mindful awareness of its symbolism – Yeshua's broken body and shed blood for the forgiveness of sins and the establishment of a new covenant.
Live as a redeemed people: Recognize that, as followers of Yeshua, you are part of a people freed from slavery, called to live out the testimony of God's grace and love in the present.
Continuously ground yourself in the story of redemption: Regularly revisit the story of Passover and the Last Supper to remember God's faithfulness and your ongoing participation in the exodus from spiritual slavery.
Extend grace and love to others: Following Yeshua's example, reach out to the marginalized and those who are seen as "other," recognizing that all humanity is in need of redemption from sin.
Choose freedom over the "watermelons of Egypt": Be aware of the temptation to return to comfortable but ultimately destructive patterns of behavior, and actively choose the freedom offered in Yeshua.
Books and Resources Mentioned
The Bible by Various Authors
Mishnah by Various Authors
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