Only the New Covenant is for the Firstfruits

As we grow in grace and knowledge, we have a better understanding of the difference between the old and new covenants.

Paul tells us in Hebrews 10:9:  “He taketh away the first, that he may establish this second.”

Paul also tells us this in 2 Corinthians 3:6:  “Who[Yahweh] also hath made us able ministers [servants] of the New Testament." (Covenant, see Strong’s 1242)

Messiah is also quoted as saying his blood is of the New Testament. (Covenant) (Matthew 26:28; Mark 14:24; Luke 22:20; 1 Corinthians 11:25)

I have learned more about the true meaning of Shavuoth, or Pentecost, with a deeper understanding of the new covenant. It is important for the firstfruits to leave the old covenant and embrace the new covenant.  Under the old covenant, Passover is observed as the Jews do today. Unleavened bread is eaten at that meal, and the night on which it is celebrated is the 15thof Abib.

Messiah taught us a new way to observe the meal he had with his disciples the night before the 15thof Abib. This meal was on the evening of the 14th,not during the days of unleavened bread that began the evening of the 15th.  The bread he gave to his disciples was leavened. That evening was not a true Old Covenant Passover meal, and did not occur after the sacrifice of the Passover lambs. Messiah was the Passover lamb and he did not die until the next afternoon at 3 PM.  Under the old covenant, the leavening was removed from the homes by noon before the lambs were sacrificed. Thus, the Jews’ Passover meal was served with unleavened bread. 

According to Luke 22:15-16, Messiah would not eat anymore until the kingdom of Yahweh. See also Mark 14:25.

We also understand that the seven days of unleavened bread, following the departure of the Israelites from Egypt, represent the consecration of the firstborn as priests. They were the original priests before the Levites, and had to be consecrated as the pattern was revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai. These seven days of restricted movement along with unleavened bread is consistent with what we learn about the Levitical consecration in the book of Leviticus.

Exodus 13 shows us that Yahweh instructed Moses to sanctify or consecrate (Strong’s 6942) the firstborn. During this period of seven days, unleavened bread was eaten.  Aaron followed this same pattern. (Leviticus 8)

Our understanding of Shavuoth, or Pentecost in the Greek, has deepened as well. The seven weekly Sabbaths represent the consecration of the firstfruits. It is important to take note of the fact that the bread offering for Pentecost is two loaves of leavened bread, which is called the bread of the firstfruits. This is why we learn that Messiah gave his disciples leavened bread the night before his death, because these men represented the beginning of the firstfruits who were to become priests in the order of Melchisedec.

Each Sabbath in the count toward Pentecost represents an age. These seven ages are equivalent to the seven days of consecration, which are required to become priests or firstfruits. 

            Sabbath                                  Age

              One                                      Adam

              Two                                      Noah                    

              Three                                   Abraham

              Four                                     Moses

              Five                                      David

              Six                                        Messiah

              Seven                                  Firstfruits

The pattern of consecration as revealed in Leviticus 8 is seven days and then on the eighth day, the priest begins to serve. (Leviticus 9:1) The firstfruits are called during the sixth age and resurrected in the seventh. However, Yahweh has known them before the foundation of the world. On the eighth or last great day, they begin their service as priests to judge the angels and mankind. (1 Corinthians 6:2-3)

For years I have learned and taught about Shavuoth from the perspective of the old covenant and the Israelites in the wilderness. I now view this period of time from the perspective of the new covenant. Each week of Pentecost, we can learn and discuss relevant topics from that age. Below are suggestions for each Sabbath or age:

1.   This is when the genetic material of the firstfruits was created and placed in Adam. Many would be called, but few chosen. Recall Levi in the loins of Abraham. (Hebrews 7:5, 10)

2.   Division and punishment were themes during this age of Noah. Recall that the name of Satan, Heylel, means divide and conquer. 

3.   During this age of Abraham we are introduced to the concepts of calling and separation. When potential firstfruits are born, they begin a process of separation from the world. This is one aspect to the challenge that all firstfruits face.

4.   During this age of Moses we are introduced to the priesthood of the firstborn and Levites. It is here that we are introduced to the important concept of consecration. It is also a time to understand the patterns that were introduced to Moses.

5.   This is the fifth week and the spiritual significance of that number is grace or favor. Please review appendix 10 in the Companion Bible for the spiritual significance of numbers. This is the age of David who was granted grace despite his sins and disobedience. This is an opportunity to review the life of David and discover how he became a friend of Yahweh.

6.   Six is the number of man. Yahweh of hosts becomes incarnate. We are reconciled by his human death, but we are saved by his resurrected life and his name of life. (Romans 5:10)

7.   This is the age when the firstfruits are resurrected. The earth enjoys prosperity for 1000 years while the firstfruits are with Messiah for one day in spiritual time. (2 Peter 3:8) We will complete our preparation to become judges on the last great day. It is of note that the sixth book of the Old Testament is named Yahshua, while the seventh book is named Judges.

The themes of the seven Sabbaths and Pentecost no longer focus only on the physical Israelites in the wilderness. During this time we can learn more about the preparation of the firstfruits throughout the ages and the completion of their consecration for service on the last great day as judges.

The pattern for priesthood is derived from the order of Melchisedec. The first-born Israelites and the Levites follow the same pattern. We must learn more about the order of Melchisedec in our role as firstfruits during the count toward Pentecost. The book of Hebrews is a good source for this deeper understanding. Also during Pentecost, we can review the book of Acts chapters 1 and 2, as well as the formation of the Spirit of Messiah and its significance to our overcoming.

This is also a good time to review the old covenant in Leviticus 23 and the new covenant perspective provided by Messiah in Hebrews 6:1-2. The Hebrews reference omits Coverings or Atonement and the Feast of Tabernacles. We must learn the significance of these differences and embrace the new. As we are taught to discern between clean and unclean, we must also discern between the old and new and fully participate in the new covenant.

 If you wish to submit a question or comment, please email our Elder at john12e4567@gmail.com. 

THE ORIGINAL HIGH PRIEST: MELCHIZEDEK

The word “original” as defined by the Miriam-Webster dictionary is: “The source or cause from which something arises.”

We are told in the book of Hebrews that the Israelite priests were established according to a heavenly pattern given to Moses. (Hebrews 8: 4-5)  At the time of the creation of the world, there was already a priesthood in existence. We are first introduced to the name of this priesthood in Genesis 14:8, the order of Melchizedek.

Why was there a heavenly priesthood? Because according to Hebrews 8:5, there was a sanctuary or true tabernacle that had been constructed by Yahweh.  There must be a priest or priests to officiate in such a tabernacle. It was this heavenly tabernacle that Yahweh described to Moses and required him to construct one similar to it on earth. (Exodus 25: 9) 

Aaron, the brother of Moses, became the first high priest of the Levitical order. Prior to the building of the tabernacle of the congregation, there was no need for a high priest. Once the tabernacle was completed, Aaron, the new high priest, and his four sons were required to be consecrated before they could officiate in the new tabernacle.  (Leviticus 8)  Moses did not create the tabernacle, the instruments within it or the Levitical priesthood from his imagination. In Exodus 25:9, we are told that Yahweh gave Moses a pattern for the tabernacle and its instruments. This revelation given to Moses is confirmed in Hebrews 8:5.  Moses was admonished to follow the instructions of Yahweh exactly as they had been given. 

The Miriam-Webster dictionary defines the word pattern in this way:  “a form or model proposed for imitation.”  The position and duties of the Levitical high priest were instituted according to the pattern received by Moses. The high priest of the order of Melchizedek was the model or pattern that was given to Moses to create a priesthood that would officiate in the tabernacle of the congregation. (Numbers 8:15)

As we can see, Yahweh was very interested in how Moses duplicated the pattern given to him. This means that the description of the tabernacle, its instruments, and the high priest were exact physical representations of the spiritual reality. 

We are told in the book of Hebrews that YahwehShua is our high priest. Yet in Hebrews 7:1, we are told about Melchizedek, the king of Salem, priest of the most high Yahweh.  This is the same being that met with Abraham. (Genesis 14:8) 

Who is this Melchizedek? In Hebrews 7:3 we have this description:  “Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of Yahweh; abideth a priest continually.”  This is not a description of a human being. Melchizedek did not have a genealogy, nor was he born.

Messiah told us this in John 6:38:  “For I came down from heaven….” 

In John 8:58, Messiah revealed this:  “Before Abraham was, I am.” 

In John 17:5, he reveals that he had pre-existence before he became the man, Yahshua:  “And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.” 

Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 10:4 that Messiah was with the Israelites in the wilderness:  “And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank all of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Messiah.”

Messiah confirms that he had an existence before becoming the man, Yahshua. He had a spiritual existence in heaven and lived on the same level as his Father Yahweh. In Hebrews 7:3 we are told that Melchizedek was made like unto the son of Yahweh.  Messiah was the Son of Yahweh.  (Hebrews 1: 5) Melchizedek, the priest of Yahweh without genealogy, is the high priest of the order of Melchizedek. YahwehShua and Melchizedek are the same being!

YahwehShua is the priest of Yahweh who provides the pattern for the Levitical high priest. He is the original high priest who met Abraham and provided the model that was revealed to Moses.

The creation, scriptures, and really everything is about Messiah. Consider what Paul tells us in Colossians 1:16-18:

“For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:  And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the ekklesia, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things he might have the preeminence.”   

There it is! He is the origin. He is the source of the pattern that Moses and David used to develop the tabernacle, the instruments, the temple, and the priesthood. He is the end from the beginning.

Consider even the very first verse in the Old Testament, Genesis 1: 1: The King James Version translates it this way: “In the beginning, Elohim created the heaven and the earth.” An alternate translation of this scripture is much more revealing:  “For the sake of the firstfruit Elohim created the heaven and the earth.”

Why the difference? The first word in the Hebrew is a combination of a preposition and noun. The Hebrew word is berishyth.  Be, is the preposition. Reyshiyth, a noun, Strong’s number 7225, can mean either beginning or firstfruit.  In 1 Corinthians 15: 23, Paul tells us that Messiah is the firstfruit. Since Messiah is the origin and purpose of everything, it makes sense that the Scriptures should open up with a reference to Him.

It is of interest that there are actually two priesthoods that are introduced to us in the Old Testament. The first priests were the firstborn Israelites. There is much recorded about the Levites, but not so much about the firstborn priests. It was the firstborn priests who officiated at Mount Sinai during the time of Shavuoth. (Exodus 19:22)

Consider what Moses tells us in Numbers 3:12-13:  “And I, behold, I have taken the Levites from among the children of Israel instead of all the firstborn that openeth the matrix among the children of Israel: therefore the Levites shall be mine; Because all the firstborn are mine; for on the day that I smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt I hallowed unto me all the firstborn in Israel, both man and beast: mine shall they be: I am Yahweh.”

In verse 13, we are told that on the 15th, the day the Egyptian firstborn were killed, he hallowed the firstborn of Israel. It is of interest that the English word “hallowed” is translated from the Hebrew word qadas, which is Strong’s number 6942. An alternative translation for this word is “consecration”.  Numbers 3:13 could also read:  “For on the day that I smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt I consecrated unto me all the firstborn in Israel.”  

Why is this of interest? We are told much about the consecration of the Levitical priests in Leviticus 8. There is no similar mention for the consecration of the firstborn priests.  Yahweh would not allow the Levitical priests to serve him before they were consecrated. Even when the Levitical priests return during the 1,000 years, they must again be consecrated. (Ezekiel 43: 26) Should not there be a consecration even for the firstborn priests? I believe there was!

The consecration for the Levitical priests took place in the tabernacle. They were isolated for seven days and ate unleavened bread. The firstborn priests ate unleavened bread for seven days during their journey from Rameses to the Sea of Reeds (often called the Red Sea). They were confined after leaving Rameses until they escaped through the parted waters of the sea. The separation of the firstborn and the consuming of unleavened bread was their consecration. Only by going through this process of consecration, could they have officiated at Mount Sinai.

Consecration is a requirement common to both the firstborn and the Levites. What about the priests of the order of Melchizedek? The priests we are considering are the saints or firstfruits who will be resurrected when Messiah returns. (Revelation 20:6) They are being resurrected to judge angels and mankind in the last great day or the white throne judgment. (1 Corinthians 6:2-3) Just as the Levites could not serve before Yahweh until the full completion of their consecration, the firstfruits should have a similar requirement. After all, the order of Melchizedek is the pattern or model from which the firstborn priests and Levitical priests are patterned.

As I have shown, consecration is a requirement for all firstborn and Levitical priests. Then when are the priests of the order of Melchizedek consecrated? The firstfruits of the order of Melchizedek are in the process of being consecrated NOW! They were known before the foundation of the world and the consecration began when their genetic material (DNA) was created in Adam. To qualify as priests, they must complete seven days or ages before they are approved to serve before Yahweh. Please see our previous article, “The Mystery of Consecration”, which was entered on our website on November 12, 2016.

Paul tells us about the plan of the ages in Ephesians 3:11. The King James Bible translates the Greek as eternal purpose. However, a better translation is found in J. B. Rotherham’s Emphasized Bible as “plan of the ages”. This plan is a reference to the seven ages, which are designed to provide the consecration required for the firstfruits or the priests of the order of Melchizedek.

It is of note that the first human priesthood was the firstborn of the Israelites. The second priesthood, the Levites, were only a substitute for the firstborn. When the order of Melchizedek’s priesthood is resurrected in the seventh age, these firstfruits too will have the status of being firstborn, just like their high priest. They will have this designation because they have the Spirit of Messiah, their high priest, who is known as the firstborn from the dead. (Colossians 1:18) The firstfruits are known as part of the general assembly and ekklesia of the firstborn that are written in heaven. (Hebrews 12:23)  The original authority of the priesthood resided with the human firstborn, which was a pattern of the heavenly and again becomes the reality with the resurrection of the firstfruits.

The high priest of the order of Melchizedek was first introduced in the Old Testament as Melchizedek in Genesis 14:18.  The only other reference found in the Old Testament regarding Melchizedek is found in Psalm 110:4. Nothing more is revealed until the book of Hebrews.  This book of the new covenant scriptures is often overlooked and is not given the study that it deserves.

In Hebrews 7:3 we learn that Melchizedek (in Hebrew; Melchisedec in the Greek) was:  “Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like the Son of Yahweh; abideth a priest continually.”This verse reveals that Melchizedek was not a human. He was a spiritual being. He was the Son of Yahweh who we now know as YahwehShua. This is why Messiah told us in John 8:56 that Abraham:  “rejoiced to see my day; and he saw it, and was glad.”During his contact with Melchizedek, Abraham learned about the order of Melchizedek and his future fulfillment. Abraham’s learning from Messiah is similar to that experienced by Paul when YahwehShua personally taught him. (Galatians 1: 12, 18)

Aaron was the first Levitical high priest. Moses was taught the pattern to follow concerning the duties of the high priest, so a study of Aaron will give us more insight into our high priest, YahwehShua. 

Let’s then review Exodus 28: 36-38:  

“And thou shalt make a plate of pure gold, and grave upon it, the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO YAHWEH. And thou shalt put it on a blue lace, that it may be upon the mitre; upon the forefront of the mitre it shall be. And it shall be upon Aaron’s forehead, that Aaron may bear the iniquity of the holy things, which the children of Israel shall hallow in all their holy gifts; and it shall be always upon his forehead, that they may be accepted before Yahweh.”

Notice that Aaron was required to wear the name of Yahweh on his forehead. This is similar to what you find in Revelation 14:1. In this verse, you will find a description of the firstfruits standing with the Lamb on Mount Sion. These 144,000 had His name and the name of His Father written in their foreheads. (YAHWEHSHUA) This name must be on their foreheads upon completion of consecration and before they can serve as judges before Yahweh.

Aaron was also required to “bear the iniquity” of the Israelites. He performed this role with a temporary substitute of animal blood. He was never required to use his own blood. Messiah, our high priest, was able to reconcile all mankind through the use of his own blood. However, salvation would only come to the firstfruits by his appearing before his Father and receiving the more excellent name, YahwehShua. Mankind is reconciled by Yahshua’s blood; however, to receive salvation you must have the name of life, YahwehShua. (Romans 5:10) This is the only name by which we must be saved. (Acts 4: 12) Aaron’s role in bearing iniquity to have the people accepted and wearing the name of Yahweh was according to the pattern shown to Moses. However, because Aaron’s blood was defiled (Romans 3:23) and he was not wearing the name YahwehShua, he was not able to fulfill the requirements of being a high priest. Messiah, the original high priest, was able to reconcile the world with his undefiled blood and save those who call upon the name of YahwehShua.  (As the lamb of Yahweh, he was unblemished by sin.  His blood was the perfect sacrifice.)

This is an appropriate time to point out that animal sacrifices were not required by Yahweh when the Israelites left Egypt. This truth is revealed in Jeremiah 17: 22-23:  “For I spake not unto your fathers, nor commanded them in the day that I brought them out of the land of Egypt, concerning burnt offerings or sacrifices. But this I commanded I them, saying, obey my voice, and I will be your Elohim, and you shall be my people: and walk ye in all the ways I commanded you that it may be well with you.”

They were not able to obey Yahweh, so the Levitical sacrifices were instituted. They will have to be reinstituted during the thousand-year reign of Messiah because salvation will not be available at that time. 

Animal blood could not remove iniquity. Hundreds of years before the Israelites left Egypt, Yahweh had revealed that animal blood was not acceptable. It had to be the blood of a man, a human. This is revealed in Genesis 9:5-6: “And surely your blood of your lives will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it and at the hand of man; at the hand of every man’s brother will I require the life of man. Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of Elohim made he man.”

This is why Messiah, the Son of Yahweh, had to become incarnate. He could only reconcile mankind by the shedding of his own blood. He created a body containing his own blood so he could become the sacrificial Lamb. (Hebrews 10:5) He had to have a disposable human name that could be defiled by all of man’s sin and then could be blotted out. He willingly gave up the name of Yahweh that would have to be restored after his death as Yahshua. He did this for us.

Genesis 9:5 also required that the shedding of the blood had to be from a kinsman or blood relative. To meet this requirement, Yahweh had to become a husband to Israel and therefore met the condition of being a relative. (Jeremiah 31:12) He had to become human to meet the requirements of Genesis 9:5. (Philippians 2:7)

Messiah had the ultimate power before becoming incarnate. (John 17:5) He gave up this power, as the Son of Yahweh, so he could die for all mankind. (Philippians 2: 8) This power was restored when he inherited the more excellent name of Yahweh. (Hebrews 1:4) We have an outstanding high priest. Paul confirms this in Hebrews 4:15:  “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; But was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.”

Messiah is the beginning of everything. This physical creation exists to produce more members of the family of Yahweh. It must start with the priesthood and it did. The original priesthood was the order of Melchizedek and the original high priest was YahwehShua. He is the king of righteousness. According to Jeremiah 33:16, he will again have the name of righteousness.  In Hebrew his name will be, Yahweh Zidkenu (see Bullinger’s Companion Bible, appendix 4), Yahweh our righteousness.

If reading this article is indicative of your being called, then you have been given a remarkable privilege. As a firstfruit you will be able to have the Spirit of the greatest high priest formed within you. This is why baptism in the name of YahwehShua is vital.  You will have his mind and his support. You will be able to do all things through your high priest who will strengthen you. (Philippians 4:13)

By accepting your invitation to join the ranks of the order of Melchizedek, you will be getting in on the ground floor of a magnificent future. In Isaiah 9:7 we are promised this:  “Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end.” Consider becoming part of an organization that will have no end and you will be with the greatest high priest forever!

Contact us at the Light of YahwehShua to learn more about your possible destiny. We stand ready to help you. May Yahweh guide you.  If you wish to submit a question or comment, please email our Elder at john12e4567@gmail.com.

Yahshua Reconciles; YahwehShua Saves

We are reconciled by the Human Name of YAHSHUA,  But are saved by the Inherited Name, YAHWEHSHUA!

One of the greatest lies perpetrated by religionists is that a man’s name is the name of salvation.

Messiah warned us about this type of deception in Luke 11:52:  “Woe to you lawyers! For ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered.”

The prophet Joel gave us the key of knowledge in Joel 2:32: “And it came to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of Yahweh shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as Yahweh hath said, and in the remnant who Yahweh shall call.”

Peter quoted Joel in Acts 2: 21:  “and it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of Yahweh shall be saved.”

The apostle Paul is the third witness to the name of salvation in Romans 10:13:  “for whosoever shall call on the name of Yahweh shall be saved.”

The Yahweh all three referred to was Messiah. He was the Yahweh of the Old Testament. Paul, who learned directly from YahwehShua, teaches us this in first Corinthians 10:4:  “And did all[the Israelites with Moses] drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual rock that followed them, and that rock was Messiah.”

Who was that rock that followed the Israelites while in the wilderness?

Please read Exodus 14 to learn more about this being. That being was Yahweh of Hosts, Yahweh Shalom, and later was known as YahwehShua.  For additional names, please see appendix four in the Companion Bible.  Messiah left that spiritual preexistence (John 17:5) and became incarnate with the name of the man, Yahshua. (Philippians 2:7-8)

Messiah in the flesh had been given the name Yahshua, (Matthew 1:21) and after his resurrection, he inherited a new spiritual name,YahwehShua. (Hebrews 1:4) Messiah was born of a woman and was under the old covenant law. (Galatians 4:4) He was therefore subject to Deuteronomy 29:20:

“Yahweh[the Father] will not spare him, but then the anger of Yahweh and his jealousy shall smoke against that man, and all the curses that are written in this book shall lie upon him, and Yahweh shall blot out his name from under heaven.”

Because Messiah was under the law and never sinned, he could not avoid this penalty (Galatians 3: 13) when he died in our sin.  Because he became sin for all mankind, (2 Corinthians 5:21) his human name was defiled with ALL the sin of mankind. He could not appear before the Father with a defiled name.

His Father could not get near him as long as he had a defiled human name. This is why we are told this in Matthew 27:46: “and about the ninth hour Yahshua cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli Eli, lama sabachthani, that is to say, My El, My El, why hast thou forsaken me?  

Up until that moment, the Father and his Son were one. (John 10:30)

But at the moment of his defilement, the Father left him, turning his back on him. This was predicted in Psalm 22:1:  “My El, My El, why hast thou forsaken me? Why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?”

This was a very dark moment for Messiah. He knew it was coming, which was why he had such a strong emotional reaction when he was praying in the garden of Gethsemane. His emotional pain that he experienced at that time was manifested physically in his perspiration mixed with blood. (Luke 22:44)  He went through all of this for us!

We must understand the difference between his human name and his inherited name. False teachers will try to deceive you by saying his human name was Jesus, Yahushua, or Yeshua. Yahshua is the correct rendering of Messiah’s human name, but it is NOT the name of salvation.

It was our high priest, YahwehShua, who appeared before Father Yahweh. (Zechariah 3) We have a pattern for this appearance in Exodus 28:36-38) The Levitical high priest was required to have the full Tetragrammaton on his forehead when he entered the holy of holies. This requirement was patterned after the order of Melchizedek. Messiah was the priest of that order who appeared to Abraham in Genesis 14.

The Levitical high priest was required to appear with the full name of Yahweh on his forehead. Failure to follow this scripture would result in his death. Notice in Revelation 14:1 that 144,000 firstfruits did have the name of the Father and his Son on their foreheads. The name of salvation on their foreheads is YahwehShua, Yahweh Savior. A man’s name would not have satisfied this scriptural requirement.

Messiah’s human name, Yahshua, is the correct translation of his Hebrew name. Even that name does not contain the full name of Yahweh, yod,hey, waw, hey. The name, Yahshua, has only a partial Tetragrammaton, yod, hey, and waw. The scripture is quite clear. Exodus 28:36 says, “Holiness to Yahweh“ and does not use a partial rendering of the great name of Yahweh. The name of salvation must contain all four letters of the Tetragrammaton. 

Any group or individual that teaches that the full name of Yahweh is not required is leading you astray. They are assuming the role of the lawyers in Luke 11:52 that Messiah warned us about. They are hiding the key of knowledge. 

The names of Jesus, Yeshua, or Y’shua do not have a linguistic link to the Tetragrammaton. Yet, there are those who still teach that these names can still be translated as Yahweh saves. That is a false understanding. Even the correct human name of Messiah, Yahshua, does not have a full linguistic link to the name Yahweh. His human name only contains the yod, hey, and waw, while the second hey is missing.  This means that Yahshua can only be translated as YAH saves and NOT YAHWEH SAVES.

Another problem is this. When the incarnate Messiah died, he had the name of Yahshua, YAH SAVES. That name was defiled and therefore blotted out as required by Deuteronomy 29:20. If that name could be correctly rendered as Yahweh, then the great name of Yahweh would be defiled and that is not possible. Yahweh’s name cannot be defiled. This is why Messiah was given a human name and human body.

To avoid the defilement of Yahweh in any way, Messiah was given a human body with the human name. That body and name were prepared for the sacrifice he was making. (Hebrews 10:5) This is just another example of how well Yahweh planned the process of salvation. We are told in Revelation 13:8 that the Messiah was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. The Father knew the end from the beginning. Nothing was left to chance.

Even though I’ve shown how Yahshua cannot be both the name of reconciliation and the name of salvation, many will still struggle with this. Yah is used about 46 times in the Old Testament. Yahweh is used nearly 7000 times. Yah is used about .6 % compared to the full Tetragrammaton. Yah is never called the savior. That distinction is only reserved for the full name of Yahweh.

Messiah was hung on a tree.  He was born of a woman and born under the law. It was only after he died that his blood was poured out. (John 19:33- 34) He died in sin, that is, he became sin. (2 Corinthians 5:21) His blood absorbed all the sin of mankind. He sacrificed his human life for us. His life was in the blood.  (Leviticus 17:11)  His human name, Yahshua, identifies that blood. It too became defiled by all that sin. That name had to be replaced before Messiah could appear before his Father.

Consider this message that Paul reveals to us in Romans 5:10:  “For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to Yahweh by the death of his son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.” Paul continues in Colossians 1:20 with this insight into reconciliation:  “and having made peace through the blood of his beam, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth or things in heaven.”

Being reconciled means being acquitted of sin. This is a free gift not just for the firstfruits, but also for all mankind and angels. Reconciliation is not the same as salvation. Salvation refers to the inheritance of the kingdom. All beings are reconciled, but not all receive an inheritance. All mankind will receive age-abiding life. Once in the new heavens and earth, that age-abiding life will be transformed into actual deathlessness.

Reconciliation is not dependent on repentance. It is a free gift. Salvation is dependent on repentance, baptism and the receiving of the Holy Spirit of the Father. This is a significant difference between reconciliation and salvation. There is also a significant difference between the human name of Yahshua and the inherited name of faith, YahwehShua. They are not interchangeable. The human name was created to be defiled. The inherited name allows those called to be firstfruits to receive the Spirit of the Father so they can form the Spirit of Messiah. Without forming the full Spirit of Messiah, they cannot overcome and become one of the 144,000.

The name Yahshua cannot save, only reconcile. Only the name of YahwehShua leads to salvation. It is better to say that Yahshua reconciles the heavens and earth through his blood. Once Messiah accomplishes this reconciliation, the name, Yahshua, is blotted out. It offers no further benefit. 

The inherited name of YahwehShua must now accomplish salvation. You will not find the name of YahwehShua in the Scriptures. It is the name of faith and not sight. (Hebrews 11:1) We do find the name of Yahshua because it has nothing to do with salvation. Salvation is not a free gift and therefore requires acceptance of the Father’s invitation and then overcoming to the end. Only those being called by the Father have the name of faith revealed to them.

Those being called must free themselves from the limitations of the old covenant. They must truly embrace the new covenant. However, this can only occur through baptism in the name of YahwehShua and the forming of the Spirit of Messiah. It is Messiah in us that allows us to fully comprehend and embrace the new covenant.

The human name of Yahshua was the name associated with the blood sacrifice. This name was blotted out of the book of life, but is found in the Scriptures. The inherited name of YahwehShua, was blotted out in the Scriptures, but is found in the book of life. This name is revealed by the Father, not just discovered on one’s own. This is the name of life that can only be embraced by faith and not by sight. The name of Yahshua allows for reconciliation, but YahwehShua is the revealed name whereby we must be saved.

Yahshua represents flesh and blood. Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 15:50, “that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of Yahweh.”The inherited name is the name of life that Messiah received after his resurrection to life. It is this name that we must have to have life in the better resurrection which then leads to our inheritance in the kingdom. 

Romans 5:10 can be better understood with this amplified translation:

“We were reconciled to Yahweh by the death of his son, [Yahshua]much more, being reconciled we shall be saved by his life.” (YAHWEHSHUA)

The name, Yahshua, was defiled with all human sin and according to Scripture was blotted out. This name was blotted out of heaven and no longer has relevance.  If you desire to have life in the better resurrection, the name of YahwehShua is what you should be seeking.

Yes, having the right name is of vast significance. If this is your invitation from the Father, consider our website carefully as well as our offer of assistance. Your decision will affect where you will be in the new heavens and earth. 

Remember, it is Yahweh Saves or Savior.  Accept NO substitute!

 If you wish to submit a question or comment, please email our Elder at john12e4567@gmail.com.

The devils believe Yahweh! WILL YOU?

James 2: 19:

“Thou believest that there is one Yahweh; thou doest well:  the devils also believe, and tremble.”

As James indicates, believing is good. But there is much more to it than just believing. Notice verse 20: “But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?”

The Greek word for works is ergon, Strong’s number 2041. It means doing or making an effort. Faith without doing something or making an effort to demonstrate your faith is of no value. Words are cheap; action is everything!

In verse 19, the words believest and believe are derived from the same Greek word, pisteuo. (Strong’s 4100) This word is derived from the Greek word, pistis. (Strong’s 4102) Pistis is the basis for the word faith, used in verse 20. James is telling us that belief or faith is dead without action to support the words.

In verse 23, James tells us how Abraham believed, but in verse 21 Abraham proved his belief by offering his son upon an altar. His offer or willingness to offer his son was the effort that he put forward to support his words. It was his effort that made Yahweh to consider him righteous and call him his friend. The words came first, but it was the action that gained Yahweh’s attention. 

Abraham is considered the father of the Israelites. He is held in very high esteem. But note who was also introduced as a righteous person in verse 25. Rahab, the harlot was also justified by her works. Even though her station in life was very inferior to that of Abraham, her action to help the Israelites spies justified her in the eyes of Yahweh. 

Very few of us can achieve the stature of Abraham, but the actions of Rahab the harlot and the reaction of Yahweh can give us all hope. Paul confirms this in 1 Corinthians 1:26-27:

“For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called.  Yahweh has chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and Yahweh has chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.” 

Many are called but few are chosen. (Matthew 20:16) The calling or invitation is not of value if not accepted. Revelation 14:1 tells us that only 144,000 firstfruits were called and overcame -- a very small number. What we don’t know is how many were called and then rejected the opportunity given to them. Either of these numbers is a very small percentage of firstfruits compared to the billions of human beings created.

How do we accept the calling or invitation that comes only from Father Yahweh? (John 6:44) We must do something.  We cannot just say we believe or have faith. We must demonstrate our faith with works or by doing something, taking action. (James 2:24) Peter tells us what that action must be in Acts 2:38:  “Then Peter said unto them, repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of ___________ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”[Spirit]

This verse is taken from the King James Version. The last word, ghost, is a poor choice for the Greek word pneuma (Strong’s 4151) which is better translated as Spirit.

I have left a blank space where the translators used another poor choice to translate the name in which we should be baptized. Peter is quoted to have used the name of a man, even though the Messiah was never known as Jesus. That name did not come into usage until the 16thcentury. His human name was a Hebrew name, Yahshua. Others will tell you that the human name Messiah could have been Yeshua, Yehoshua, or Y’shua. All these refer to a man’s name.

However, Messiah no longer had his human name when Peter gave us the instruction in Acts 2:38. Messiah was dead. He died in sin. (2 Corinthians 5:21) His blood absorbed all the sin of the world. His human name identified that blood and was therefore defiled. He had to have a new name before he appeared before his Father, Yahweh.

The Messiah appeared before his Father as a high priest. When Aaron, the Levitical high priest, appeared before Yahweh on the Day of Coverings (Atonement), he had to appear with the name of Yahweh on his forehead. (Exodus 29: 36- 38) Messiah would also have to have the name of Yahweh when he appeared before his Father.

The Messiah did have a new name given to him after his resurrection and before he appeared before his Father. The revelation of this amazing fact is revealed in Hebrews 1:4:  “Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name then they”.  That new name was very different than the name given when he was born as a human. (Matthew 1:25)

Can we know what this new name is? We MUST know this new name to be able to follow Peter’s instructions in Acts 2:38. There is no room for substitution or misunderstanding. A significant clue to this name is revealed in Revelation 14: 1. The 144,000 firstfruits that are successfully resurrected when Messiah returns have the name of the Father and Son on their foreheads. The Father’s name is Yahweh and the second part of Messiah’s human name was shua or savior. His inherited name is YahwehShua or Yahweh Savior.

It is interesting to note that Messiah’s human name, Yahshua, in Hebrew, has six letters: yod, hey, waw, sheen,waw ayin. The inherited name only needed to have the letter hey added to the human name: yod, hey, waw, HEY, sheen, waw, ayin. 

The difference between the six letters in Messiah’s human name and the seven letters of his inherited name is significant. I refer you to appendix 10 in the Companion Bible for more details on the significance of numbers. The Companion Bible tells us that the number six is the human number. The number seven denotes spiritual perfection. We must have the name of spiritual perfection for baptism, and NOT the defiled human name.

YahwehShua is not an unusual construction for the name of the Messiah. We learn from 1 Corinthians 10:4 that Messiah was the Yahweh of the Old Testament. In that role, he had many two-part or hyphenated names: Yahweh of Hosts, Yahweh Shalom, Yahweh Rapha, etc. Please refer to appendix 4 of the Companion Bible for further information about the names of Yahweh.

Messiah is quoted in Luke 11:52 as telling us that the key of knowledge was taken away. That key is and was the name of Yahweh. The Jews had declared that Yahweh’s name was ineffable and should not be pronounced. Substitutions such as Ha Shem and Adonai were made. This doctrine led to the Christians not understanding the name of Yahweh. They substituted LORD for the Hebrew Tetragrammaton. This is incorrect. You cannot understand the inherited name by only knowing LORD. You must refer to the Hebrew name and not the English translation. This lack of knowledge prevents you from obeying Peter’s instruction to be baptized in the inherited name.

I have reviewed many articles on the Internet and have seen commercials on TV, which promote the importance of believing in the human name of Messiah. These sources do not talk about the significance of baptism, but only the importance of believing. These authors emphasize the use of words and leave out the necessity for action. Baptism is a requirement, not an option. Many have been baptized, but only in the human name of Messiah.  This has led many people to receive a worthless baptism. 

I even found one author who proclaims that baptism was only necessary during the early years of what he called the Pentecostal period. He says this is no longer necessary in our age. His conception is that whosoever professes to be a believer is sealed and baptized in the Holy Spirit. This perspective does away with the act of water baptism and laying on of hands in the inherited name of YahwehShua. This leads many people to follow a great deception. Satan continues deceiving man as he deceived Eve in the garden. The difference is that today he has many “ministers of righteousness” to do his work. (2 Corinthians 11:15)

Satan and his angels know the truth of Yahweh, but do not want YOU to know. They desire you to be deceived so you will miss the opportunity to become a firstfruit in the better resurrection. They tremble, as James tells us, because they know their fate. The fallen angels face being judged and cast into the lake of fire, the second death. The firstfruits will never face the second death! (Revelation 20:6) That fact alone makes the fallen angels jealous and vengeful.

The fallen angels are awaiting their judgment and tremble, but, what about the firstfruits? Peter tells us, we, those who are the first fruits, are being judged now! He tells us this in 1 Peter 4:17:  “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of Yahweh: and if it first begins at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the Evangel of Yahweh.” 

The first resurrection is for the firstfruits. Being in that resurrection indicates that their judgment is successfully completed, and they will face no further judgment. In fact they will become judges themselves. (1 Corinthians 6: 2-3) 

What about the rest of mankind who are not being called at this time? They will be resurrected after the 1000-year reign of Messiah. (Revelation 20:5) This time of judgment is known as the last great day or the white throne judgment.

This second resurrection is to physical life. The firstfruits will be spirit beings and no longer physical. Please refer to Ezekiel 37 for insights into the second or physical resurrection of the rest of mankind. The firstfruits do not have to face the second death. That will be reserved for the fallen angels and the rest of mankind who are judged to be disobedient.

We live in the age of lies. Religion, science, politics, history and really all aspects of our culture are filled with deception. The word church is a translator’s deception as well. (Look in Strong’s Concordance for the correct word.) The churches are full of lies. This is why there will be only a 144,000 firstfruits in the first resurrection when Messiah returns.

Only some people are being called by Father Yahweh in this age. You may be one of them. If you have potential for becoming a firstfruit, Satan also knows this as well. He will focus his efforts on you. The rest of the world is not being called now. They are being reserved until the last great day, which will occur after the thousand-year reign of Messiah. Satan will deal with them later. 

To avoid falling victim to Satan’s deception, call on Yahweh to lead you to truth. Study, pray, and accept our invitation to be of assistance to you. We are not here to “save” the world. We are here to assist those being called by the Father. Prayer and study are a beginning, but the real understanding begins after your baptism in YahwehShua. At that time you will freely receive the Spirit of the Father, who will give you the down payment of Messiah’s Spirit. You will begin to develop the mind of Messiah. (Philippians 2:5)

Following baptism, the Spirit of Messiah will begin to be formed within you. (Galatians 4:19) As His Spirit becomes more developed within you over time, the mind of Messiah will reveal more truth and understanding to you. When you are baptized, you will also become a member of the body of Messiah. This is an important resource that Yahweh has prepared for all His firstfruits. You do not have to walk alone. Your brethren in the faith are commanded to love you, support you and encourage you in the process of overcoming. (John 15:12)

Becoming a firstfruit is the greatest calling of this age. If you are being called for this opportunity, consider taking advantage of it. Study the articles on this website and contact us. There is a challenge to accepting this invitation, and there is suffering associated with that as well. However the successful completion of your overcoming will produce rewards that you cannot even comprehend at this time. 

Remember, believing is not enough. You must take action and demonstrate the validity of your belief or faith. This action begins with baptism in the inherited name of YahwehShua. The path to the first resurrection begins here. Words are cheap and easy. Baptism makes your belief real. Then the work begins. However, you have the strength of Messiah and the body of Messiah to help you. You will not be alone! 

Contact us for more information! Go to prayer and ask Yahweh to guide you. Yes, begin now. Do not put it off!  If you wish to submit a question or comment, please email our Elder at john12e4567@gmail.com. 

A HIDDEN TRUTH: "For the firstfruit"

Throughout my life, I have been taught that the first book of the bible is named Genesis. However, that name is of Greek origin and not the original language given to Moses by Yahweh. The Hebrew name for the first book given to Moses is “Bereyshiyth”. 

Bereyshiyth is actually two words: Be is a preposition and reyshiyth, a noun. The English translation for Genesis is “beginning”. That is one definition of reyshiyth, but there is also an alternative definition for reyshiyth: the firstfruit. 

The Strong’s number for reyshiyth is 7225. When you refer to Strong’s Concordance, you will find both definitions, beginning, and firstfruit, used for 7225. 

It is of note that there is an alternative Hebrew word that Moses could have used for expressing the thought of a beginning, tekhillaw or Strong’s number 8462. However, this word is derived from the Hebrew word chalal (Strong’s 2490), which has a definition of to begin, but also to pollute or defile.

The derivation of reyshiyth is the Hebrew word, “rosh” (Strong’s 7213). This word refers to “the first thing” or “the originating event”. Unlike the derivation of tekhillaw, it does not have a negative connotation of pollute or defile.

It is my understanding that the better translation of the Hebrew for the first verse in the book of BEREYSHIYTH (Genesis) is: “For the firstfruit Elohim created the heaven and earth.”  This is a significant difference. This translation gives us the statement of Yahweh’s purpose in the first two words!

This translation is consistent with what Yahweh tells us in Isaiah 46:10:  “Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, my council shall stand, and I will do my pleasure.” This is an interesting verse as well. The Hebrew word for beginning used here is reyshiyth. The Hebrew word translated as end can also mean latter days or time. This physical or earthly existence we find ourselves in is not the first creation. There was at least one other before Genesis (Bereyshiyth) 1:1. This is confirmed in Proverbs 8:22:

“Yahweh possessed me in the beginning of his way, before the works of old.”

The angels are created beings. They existed before Adam and Eve. They are made of a spiritual substance, not material or physical.  That is only one of the creations. There may be others that have not been revealed as of yet.

Who is the firstfruit that is revealed in the first two words of Genesis (Bereyshiyth) 1:1? This firstfruit is Messiah. This is confirmed in 1 Corinthians 15:23:  “But every man in his own order: Messiah the firstfruits; afterward they that are Messiah’s at his coming.” The apostle James says we are a kind of firstfruit. (James 1:18)

The first verse of the bible is introducing YahwehShua and the saints or firstfruits.

This understanding is confirmed in Isaiah 8:18:  “Behold, I and the children who Yahweh had given me are for signs and wonders in Israel from Yahweh of hosts, which dwelleth in Mount Zion.”

When are these children revealed? You will find this in the last book of the bible, the revelation of YahwehShua Messiah 14: 1:  “And I looked, and lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Zion and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his name and the name of his Father written in their foreheads.” (Diaglott)

The King James Version hides the truth of this verse with an incomplete translation from the Greek. These newly resurrected children of Yahweh (1 John 3:2) have the name of YahwehShua, which is His name and the name of His Father, on their foreheads.

Verse four of the same chapter tells us who these 144,000 are:  “These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto Yahweh[the Father] and to the Lamb[YahwehShua].”

We are in the latter days and Yahweh is revealing his truth to his saints or firstfruits. Consider Amos 3:7:  “Surely the sovereign Yahweh will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.” 

Also consider 1 Corinthians 2:10:  “But Yahweh hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: the Spirit searches all things, yea, the deep things of Yahweh.”

On this website, you will find the deep things of Yahweh being revealed. This understanding has come to those who have the Spirit of the Messiah being formed within them. (Galatians 4:19) These saints or firstfruits have the mind of Messiah being formed within them that enables them to search the deeper things of Yahweh. (Philippians 2:10)

The formation of the Spirit of Messiah can only begin with baptism in the name of YahwehShua. With this baptism, the Father freely gives us His Spirit, which then provides us with the down payment of the Spirit of Messiah. Over time the Spirit of Messiah is formed. This is the process of overcoming. Those who do not quench the Spirit and overcome to the end will be resurrected when Messiah returns. These are the 144,000 revealed in Revelation 14:1.

What about the creation prior to the first verse of the first book of the bible? We can learn about this in Job 38: 4- 7:  

“Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth?

Declare, if thou hast understanding.  Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? Or who hath stretched the line upon it?  Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? Or who laid the corner stone thereof; when the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of Elohim shouted for joy?”

These “sons of Elohim” are the angels. They were created during a spiritual creation, just prior to the introduction of the physical creation in Genesis (Bereyshiyth). This physical creation is producing a new set of sons. The first set did not have to go through a physical incarnation first. The current creation, those introduced in the first book, are producing a second set of sons who must be physical first and eventually become spirit beings.

Yahweh has not completed his creation. Yes, there was a spiritual creation, which was then followed by our present physical creation, but there is more.

What about the new heavens and earth? This next creation follows the present physical creation and is revealed in Isaiah 65:17 and 1 Peter 3:12. The present physical creation will be destroyed by fire as revealed in 1 Peter 3:12. All mortal human beings will be able to enter the new heavens and earth once they are changed to spirit beings. Flesh and blood cannot enter the new creation; therefore all resurrected human beings must first become spirit beings. (1 Corinthians 15:50)

Human beings do not go to heaven; Yahweh brings His heaven to the new earth. This is revealed in Revelation 21:1-2:

“And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.  And I John saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from Yahweh out in heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.”

The firstfruits are those who are the beginning of this new creation. (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15) The firstfruits are the judges by which more people will be selected and transformed into spirit beings, which allows them to enter the new creation. Those who must enter through the lake of fire will be allowed to complete their time in the second death and then enter the new heaven and earth. All humans entering this new creation will have no memory of how they got there.  (Isaiah 65:17; Revelation 21:4)

The firstfruits and those they judge eligible to enter the kingdom without going through the lake of fire will have a reward waiting for them in the new heavens and earth. Those entering from the lake of fire will not have an inheritance. The inheritance is only for those who will be living in New Jerusalem. Those living outside the walls will not share this inheritance. (Revelation 22:15)

As you study and learn more about this new creation, you may develop more interest in learning if you too may qualify to receive the status of firstfruit.  As a firstfruit within New Jerusalem, you will have the opportunity to experience what was revealed in Isaiah 9:7:  

“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The seal of Yahweh of hosts will perform this.” 

Yes, Yahweh will have a physical kingdom on this present earth during the one thousand years after Messiah returns. (Revelation 20:1) Sin will continue to exist during this kingdom and after the thousand years have been completed, Satan will be loosed to cause more problems. The kingdom in the new heaven and earth will be permanent and without sin. The firstfruits are leading the way. Are you being called to be a firstfruit? Perhaps you should look into it? 

The firstfruits hidden in Genesis 1:1 are now revealed during this present age. We have been given Yahweh’s purpose from the very beginning. Ephesians 3:5 reveals this:  “Which in the ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit”. The Spirit Is very much involved in the calling of the firstfruits.  Once baptized, the Spirit of Messiah will bring the firstfruits into the deeper understanding of Yahweh. 

Do you desire to know the mysteries of Yahweh? Pray to Yahweh for truth, study the articles on this website and contact us for more guidance. We are the firstfruits of the body of Messiah. At one time, the key of knowledge was taken away (Luke 11:52), but now you can have access to this remarkable knowledge. Consult with us to consider carefully whether the Father is calling you. (John 6:44) This may be your invitation! 

The first fruits are the vanguard of this new creation. What a remarkable opportunity to be part of this exciting future. Consider carefully what is at stake if you are being called and miss the opportunity to accept this invitation. Yahweh has done all this, “for the firstfruits”. Do you wish to find out if you can be included?

 If you wish to submit a question or comment, please email our Elder at john12e4567@gmail.com.