In this installment of the Messianic Torah Observer, I begin a multi-part discussion on what the Torah can and cannot do for the people of Yah. This is a foundational and, at times, misunderstood topic, especially for those who have inherited denominational teachings that frame Torah as obsolete, burdensome, or somehow contrary to grace. In this discussion, I work to show from the witness of Scripture that Torah does not save us, but it most certainly remains essential to the life of the set-apart believer who has come into covenant relationship with the Creator through Yeshua HaMashiyach.

Along the way, I address the widespread claim that the Apostle Paul rejected Torah and taught against Torah living. I also touch on the historical realities that contributed to the Church Triumphant’s rejection of Torah, the significance of the Acts 15 Jerusalem Council, and James’ profound statement that the implanted Torah is able to save our souls. My aim throughout is not to stir controversy for controversy’s sake, but rather to encourage sober, scripturally grounded reflection on the role Torah should play in the life of every believer who longs to walk faithfully before Yah.

• Why Torah-keeping has never been the means by which a person is justified or saved.
• How faith and obedience properly work together in the life of the believer.
• Why Paul’s writings have often been misunderstood, misrepresented, and used to promote anti-Torah doctrine.
• What the Acts 15 Jerusalem Council actually addressed regarding Gentile believers and Torah.
• Why freedom and deliverance are necessary prerequisites for properly receiving and walking out Torah.
• What James meant by the implanted Torah being able to save the soul.
• How Torah functions in the life of the redeemed as loving instruction in righteousness rather than as a mechanism of salvation.

Key Scriptures Referenced

• Galatians 2:16
• Ephesians 2:8
• Acts 2:42, 46
• Acts 15:19-21
• Acts 18
• Acts 21:20
• Acts 24
• Acts 25
• Romans 3:31
• Romans 5:14
• Romans 7
• 1 Corinthians 7
• James 1:21-25
• Galatians 3:24
• Genesis 49:10
• Deuteronomy 28
• Deuteronomy 32
• Joshua 1:6-9
• Psalm 1:2-3
• Isaiah 48:20
• Isaiah 55:9
• Revelation 18:4
• Romans 6:23

Who This Teaching Is For

This teaching is especially for believers who have wrestled with questions surrounding Torah, grace, salvation, and the writings of Paul. It is for those who sense that something in the conventional Christian framing of the law does not fully square with the whole counsel of Scripture. And it is for those who desire to better understand the relationship between covenant faithfulness, Spirit-led obedience, and the ongoing relevance of Yah’s instructions in righteousness for His people today.

I pray this discussion strengthens and challenges you in your walk with the Almighty. If this teaching blesses you, consider sharing it with others in your fellowship or with those who are reexamining what Scripture actually says about Torah and the life of the redeemed. Abba willing, we will continue this discussion in Part 2 and examine this subject even more deeply.