Did John Baptize Yeshua into the Melchizedekian Priestly Order? Part 5 of our Melchizedek Series

by | May 3, 2025 | Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Show Notes: Did John Baptize Yeshua into the Melchizedekian Priestly Order-Part 5 of our Melchizedek Series

Episode Title: Did John Baptize Yeshua into the Melchizedekian Priestly Order-Part 5 of our Melchizedek Series
Episode Description: In this episode, we explore the intriguing question of whether John the Baptist baptized Yeshua into the Melchizedekian Priestly Order. Join us as we delve into historical, theological, and scriptural insights to uncover the significance of this event. This is Part 5 of our Melchizedek Series, where we continue to examine the profound implications of the Melchizedekian Order in religious history.
Key Topics Covered:
  • The role of John the Baptist in Yeshua’s baptism
  • Historical context of the Melchizedekian Priestly Order
  • Theological implications of Yeshua’s baptism into the Melchizedekian Order
  • Scriptural evidence supporting the Melchizedekian baptism
  • Insights from scholars and theologians on the Melchizedekian Order
Episode Highlights:
  • Detailed analysis of the historical background of John the Baptist and Yeshua
  • Examination of theological perspectives on the Melchizedekian Order
  • Scriptural references and interpretations related to Yeshua’s baptism
  • Expert opinions and scholarly discussions on the topic

References:

  • Philo, a Hellenist Jewish philosopher and history, mentions Melchizedek in his writings (Legum Allegoriae III 79-82, De Congressu 99, and De Abrahamo 325).
  • Josephus, the first-century Jewish historian to Rome, fingers Melchizedek as a Canaanite priest of God Most High (Antiquities of the Jews 1.10.2).

  • Turns out the oldest known New Testament manuscript is Papyrus 90, which contains words from the Gospel of John and dates back to the 2nd century. However, there are even earlier fragments, such as portions of the Gospel of Matthew and the Book of Revelation, which some scholars believe could date to the 1st century. (Where to find the four oldest New Testament manuscripts) The Codex Vaticanus, a parchment manuscript from the 4th century, is one of the most complete early versions of the New Testament (Dating the Oldest New Testament Christian Manuscripts – Biblical Archaeology Society). It played a significant role in shaping modern scholarly editions of the Greek text.

  • Of this, Michael Rood in his Chronology of the Gospels: “Pantaenus, Clement of Alexandria, Cyril, Epiphanius, Eusebius, Irenaeus, Origen, and Jerome, early church historians of the second to fourth centuries, all concurred with the statement of Papias, Yochanan’s disciple, that “Matthew wrote his Gospel in the Hebrew language and several did their best to translate it’ (Ecclesiastical History 3:39 — Eusebius).”

  • 11QMelchizedek
  • Community Rule, 1QS, col. 8
  • The Ancient Order of Melchizedek by Ken Johnson
  • The Protoevangelium of James 16

What Does Worshipping the Father in Spirit and Truth Mean and Look Like? Part 2 of True Biblical Worship

by | Apr 24, 2025 | Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Title: Biblical Principles for Worship Today
Episode Summary: In this episode, we delve into the essential principles of true worship according to Yehovah. We explore the transition from the Original Covenant to the Renewed Covenant and how worship has evolved from physical to spiritual. We discuss the teachings of Yeshua and the importance of renewing our minds, guarding our souls, and obeying Yehovah’s instructions.
Key Points:
  • Renewing Our Minds: Focus on Yehovah’s kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33).
  • Guarding Our Souls: Be mindful of what we take into ourselves, including food, entertainment, relationships, and reading material.
  • Listening to Yehovah: Be quick to hear His voice and slow to respond or speak.
  • Maintaining Joy: Don’t let anyone steal your joy .
  • Continuous Prayer: Pray without ceasing and do not grow weary of doing good.
  • Obedience: Incorporate Yehovah’s and Yeshua’s instructions into our daily walk.
Conclusion: True worship involves a holy and righteous lifestyle that aligns with Yehovah’s teachings. Yeshua’s teachings emphasize the importance of spirit and truth worship, transitioning from physical practices to spiritual devotion.
Call to Action: Encouragement to keep on in the faith walk, focusing on the high calling in Messiah and maintaining a Godly attitude. Worship the Father in Spirit and Truth.
Closing Remarks: May you have a blessed Shabbat and an overcoming rest of your week in Yeshua’s matchless Name. Until next time, Shalom, shalom.

True Biblical Worship According to the Original Covenant-Part 1 of our True Biblical Worship Series

by | Apr 19, 2025 | Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Show Notes: True Biblical Worship According to the Original Covenant – Part 1

Episode Title: True Biblical Worship According to the Original Covenant – Part 1
Host: Rod Thomas
Date: April 19, 2025
Description: In this episode of the Messianic Torah Observer, Rod Thomas delves into the profound teachings on true biblical worship according to the original covenant. Recorded on a rainy but warm Shabbat morning in DFW, Rod shares insights from a recent Google-Meet study delivered to Torah-honoring brethren in Nairobi, Kenya. This teaching explores the significance of worship in the Messianic Torah Observer lifestyle, including the Feast of Unleavened Bread and the Day of Firstfruits.
Key Points:
  • Introduction to the topic of true biblical worship and its importance in the Messianic Torah Observer lifestyle1.
  • Examination of traditional understandings of worship across various religious practices2.
  • Detailed discussion on the biblical principles of worship, including the Hebrew term “shachah” and its significance3.
  • Insights into the original covenant perspectives on worship, including the physical and actionable forms of worship4.
  • Exploration of the appointed times for worship according to Yah’s sacred calendar5.
  • Emphasis on the fear of Yehovah as the basis of true biblical worship6.
  • Closing remarks and preview of Part 2, which will focus on worship from a Yeshua-centric perspective.

 

Call to Action: Visit [http://themessianictorahobserver.org](http://themessianictorahobserver.org) for more teachings on Yah’s set apart days and other Hebraic topics. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this teaching series, where Rod will explore worship in spirit and truth.
Closing: Rod Thomas wishes listeners a blessed rest of their Shabbat, a meaningful Feast of Unleavened Bread, and a powerfully blessed Day of Firstfruits. Until next time, Shalom, shalom.

Waking-up From the Slumber-Feast of Tabernacles 2024-Kenya

by | Apr 10, 2025 | Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Join Rod Thomas in this enlightening episode of the Messianic Torah Observer as he discusses the significance of the upcoming Spring Feasts, including Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Dive deep into the spiritual implications of these sacred times, exploring the importance of ridding our homes of leaven and embracing the symbolism of matzah. Rod also shares a powerful teaching titled “Waking Up from Our Slumber: The Feast of Tabernacles and Our Kingdom Readiness,” originally delivered to a Kenyan assembly. This teaching emphasizes the urgency for believers to awaken spiritually and fulfill their divine purpose. Tune in for a meaningful exploration of faith, community, and the call to action in our walk with Yeshua.

Website: themessianictorahobserver.org

  1. Introduction to the Spring Feasts
  2. Significance of Passover and Unleavened Bread
  3. Teaching: Waking Up from Our Slumber
  4. Spiritual Complacency and Its Dangers
  5. Fulfilling Our Purpose in Yeshua
  6. Conclusion and Call to Action

Learning to Leave Well Enough Alone-Thoughts and Reflections on Torah Reading 24

by | Apr 4, 2025 | Blog, Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Podcast Episode: Learning to Leave Well Enough Alone – Thoughts and Reflections on Torah Reading 24

In this episode of the Messianic Torah Observer, Rod Thomas delves into Torah Reading 24, titled “Learning to Leave Well Enough Alone.” Rod reflects on Genesis/Beresheit 26:12-35, where Yehovah reaffirms His covenant with Isaac/Yitschaq, promising blessings, land, and descendants. Despite Isaac’s obedience and prosperity, he faces challenges from the Philistines, who envy his success and fill the wells his father Abraham had dug. Isaac’s journey of re-digging and naming these wells symbolizes his faith and connection to his father’s legacy.

Rod discusses the significance of wells in biblical times, not just as sources of water but as markers of territorial claims, divine provision, and social gathering places. Naming wells was a way to commemorate agreements, establish ownership, and symbolize divine blessings. Isaac’s encounters with the Philistines over wells highlight the importance of peace and trust in Yehovah’s promises.

Rod encourages listeners to reflect on their own spiritual wells and how they respond to adversity. He emphasizes the importance of seeking peace, trusting in Yehovah’s covenant promises, and walking in faith and obedience. The episode concludes with a reminder to remain steadfast in our faith and trust in Yehovah’s blessings, even in the face of challenges.

Key Takeaways:

  • Yehovah’s covenant promises to Isaac/Yitschaq.
  • The significance of wells in biblical times.
  • Isaac’s journey of re-digging and naming wells.
  • The importance of peace and trust in Yehovah’s promises.
  • Reflecting on our own spiritual wells and responding to adversity.

Scripture References:

  • Genesis/Beresheit 26:12-35
  • Numbers 23:19
  • Ephesians 2:12-16
  • Romans 11:17
  • Luke 14:25-35
  • Matthew 5:10-12
  • Matthew 6:19-20
  • Romans 12:14-21

Tune in to this insightful episode and deepen your understanding of Torah Reading 24 and its relevance to our covenant relationship with Yehovah.