Rabbi’s Reflections – Tuesday, September 12, 2023
Shalom,
Special Announcement: Next Shabbat is also Rosh Hashanah, or Yom Teruah – as it is known in Scripture. The Feast of Trumpets begins at sundown on Friday night. We announce a new spiritual year with the sound of the Shofar, but we also make a prophetic declaration that Yeshua will be crowned King.
At 6PM we will light the candles and say the Kiddush as we begin our Shabbat and holiday (Holy Day) celebration with a covered dish meal. Please bring something to share. Also, remember to bring your shofar (if you have one). We will make a joyful sound to the Lord both Friday night and again on Saturday morning. Visitors are welcome at both services.
One In Messiah part 58 – Romans, part 169
Rom 11:29 for the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.
Yesterday, we reviewed ample proof that God loves the children of Israel. Today, we are calling God’s love “gifts and calling,” which are further defined as “irrevocable.” Put that in your “replacement theology” pipe and smoke it.
When we read about “gifts and calling,” we must define them in context. It is clear from the passage that we are talking about the inclusion of Jewish people into the family of God. (As if it were even possible to exclude us.) Romans 11:25b …a partial hardening has come upon Israel… 26a and in this way all Israel will be saved… 27a And this is My covenant with them… 29 for the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.
What are “gifts?” In Greek, the word is “Charismata,” meaning “a gift of grace or undeserved favor.” It is first used in Romans 1 in connection with a spiritual gift. Romans 1:11 For I long to see you, so I may share with you some spiritual gift to strengthen you.
The “calling” in Greek is “Clesis” which is “a divine call or invitation.” This is the first use of that Greek word, but not the last. It is also used in Ephesians 1:18a I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope of His calling.
God has poured out grace on His people, Israel, and He has called them (us) to Himself. None of His promises can be revoked. Isa 63:7 I will remember the lovingkindnesses of Adonai, the praises of Adonai, according to all that Adonai has granted us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel, which He has granted them according to His compassion, and according to the abundance of His lovingkindnesses. 8 For He said, “Surely they are My people, children who will not deal falsely.” So He became their Savior. 9 In all their affliction He was afflicted. So the angel of His presence saved them. In His love and in His mercy He redeemed them, then He lifted them and carried them all the days of old.
It is a long road to restoration, but finally, in Isaiah, chapter 65, God’s promises are prophesied to be fulfilled. Isaiah 65:17 For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered or come to mind. 18 But be glad and rejoice forever in what I am creating. For behold, I am creating Jerusalem for rejoicing, and her people for joy.
For the gifts and calling of God are irrevocable. Have the faith to walk in this truth. Shalom shalom.
Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Tue 12 Sep 2023 26th of Elul, 5784
Ge 21:9-12 Hab 1-2 2 Ch 20:20-37 Rev 6 (Ac 14)