“Messiah the Prince: Daniel’s Prophecy, Jewish Tradition, and the Identity of Yeshua” – Part 9 of our Melchizedek Series

by | Jan 23, 2026 | Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Overview

In this installment, Rod Thomas explores the Jewish concepts of the Messiah, focusing on the three-messiah framework: Mashiyach Nagid, Mashiyach ben Yosef, and Mashiyach ben David. The discussion delves into Daniel’s prophecy, Jewish tradition, and the identity of Yeshua (Jesus) as understood in Messianic faith. The episode also examines why mainstream Judaism rejects Yeshua as Messiah and how these messianic expectations shape both Jewish and Messianic perspectives.

Key Topics Covered

1. Introduction and Context

  • Greetings and setting: Recorded on the 3rd Day of the 11th biblical month, 6025 (Friday, January 16, 2026).
  • Reflection on persecution, faith, and the hope found in Yeshua’s teachings (Matthew 5:10-12; Ephesians 6:18; Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:28).

2. Why Judaism Rejects Yeshua as Messiah

  • Historical grievances and theological differences.
  • The role of Rabbinic expectations and interpretations in shaping Jewish messianic beliefs (Hebrews 2:3; Romans 3:2; Romans 11:25-26; Zechariah 12:10).

3. The Three Messiahs in Jewish Thought

  • Mashiyach Nagid (Messiah the Prince)
  • Mashiyach ben Yosef (Messiah, son of Joseph)
  • Mashiyach ben David (Messiah, son of David)
  • The episode focuses on Mashiyach Nagid, with future installments to cover the other two.

4. What is Mashiyach Nagid?

  • Linguistic breakdown: “Mashiyach” means “Anointed One”; “Nagid” means “Prince” or “Leader.”
  • Scriptural foundation: Daniel 9:25-26 and its interpretations.
  • The prophecy’s implications for Jewish and Christian eschatology (1 Corinthians 13:12; Matthew 24:15-16).

5. The Meaning and Role of “Nagid”

  • “Nagid” as prince, ruler, leader, commander, or official.
  • Biblical examples: Saul, David, Solomon, Hezekiah, Abner, Azariah, and others (1 Samuel 9:16; 10:1; 13:14; 25:30; 2 Samuel 5:2; 6:21; 7:8; 1 Kings 1:35; 2 Kings 18:1; 2 Chronicles 31:13).

6. Mashiyach Nagid in Prophecy and Tradition

  • The “transitional” leader concept: Anointed but not yet king.
  • Comparison with “Melech” (King) and the Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7:8-16; Psalm 2:8-12; 2 Chronicles 13:5).

7. Messianic Traits and the Melchizedekian Order

  • Psalm 110 as a foundational text for the dual role of king and priest.
  • The Melchizedekian priesthood and its fulfillment in Yeshua (1 Peter 2:9; Daniel 2:44; Matthew 21:44; 1 Corinthians 15:24; Revelation 11:15).

8. Jewish Perspectives on Mashiyach Nagid

  • Views of Rashi, Ibn Ezra, and Rambam (Maimonides) on the identity and role of Mashiyach Nagid.
  • The Essenes and Qumran writings: Priestly and royal messiahs, “Prince of the Congregation” (Damascus Document, Rule of the Congregation, 11QMelchizedek).
  • Apocryphal and Talmudic references: Suffering and kingly messiahs (1 Enoch, Jubilees, Talmud).

9. Christian and Messianic Interpretations

  • Yeshua as the fulfillment of Daniel’s prophecy and the persona of Mashiyach Nagid.
  • The dual or double-fulfillment view of prophecy.
  • Jewish objections to identifying Yeshua as all three messianic figures.

10. Application and Call to Discipleship

  • The call for believers to imitate Yeshua’s character traits: suffering, triumph, priesthood, kingship, exaltation, royal lineage, and spiritual warfare (Isaiah 53; Colossians 2:15; Psalm 110; Matthew 1:1; Zechariah 14:3; 1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 20:6; 2 Corinthians 10:4-6; Ephesians 6:12-14).
  • Invitation to covenant relationship and Torah-honoring lifestyle (2 Corinthians 6:2; Isaiah 55:6-9).

References & Further Reading

Contact & Community

Closing Blessing

May you be most blessed, fellow saints in training. Walk in faith, truth, and the hope of Messiah’s return.

The Two Afflictions That Get God’s Attention

by | Apr 3, 2025

Messianic Torah Observer Podcast Episode: The Two Afflictions That Get God's Attention Host: Rod Thomas Date: April 3, 2025 Episode Summary: In this episode, Rod Thomas shares his thoughts ahead of the spring feast and discusses the significance of Yom Kippur, the Day...

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Beyond Protests: How Prayer and Fasting Topple Evil Regimes – Venezuela-Minnesota-Iran-The Extreme Radical Left Weighing Heavy on my Mind

by | Jan 16, 2026 | Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Messianic Torah Observer, Rod Thomas explores the spiritual dynamics behind the persistence and collapse of evil regimes. Drawing from current events, biblical prophecy, and personal reflection, the discussion centers on how prayer and fasting—not protests or violence—are the most effective tools for confronting entrenched systems of power.

Key Themes & Discussion Points

1. Living in Perilous Times

  • The episode opens with a reflection on the “Last Days” and the fulfillment of biblical prophecy regarding the moral decline of society (2 Timothy 3:1-4, Romans 3:23). Listeners are encouraged to self-examine and recognize how these ungodly traits manifest both individually and collectively.

2. The Danger of Ideological Absolutism

  • Various global systems—religious and secular—are discussed (Iran, Venezuela, radical movements in the West). The common thread is the danger that arises when any system claims moral perfection and becomes intolerant of dissent. Such systems survive on fear and collapse only when their enforcement mechanisms fail.

3. Power and Unlikely Alliances

  • The thirst for power unites disparate groups and ideologies, leading to unexpected alliances. The episode highlights how neither religion nor atheism can restrain absolute ideology, and how tragic consequences can result when individuals or groups become impervious to reason.

4. How Systems Claim and Maintain Power

  • Real-world examples illustrate how institutions (courts, media, schools, police) shift from protecting rights to enforcing ideology when a system claims absolute authority. This is seen in Iran, Venezuela, the Soviet Union, and contemporary U.S. politics.

5. Why Evil Systems Persist

  • Despite knowing right from wrong, humanity continues to support corrupt systems. Scriptural references (Romans 1:20-32) explain how people exchange truth for lies and become complicit in evil. The episode argues that regimes survive protests and leadership changes, collapsing only when their authority is removed—a power that comes from beyond human agency.

6. The Spiritual Mandate: Prayer Over Protest

  • The biblical framework is presented: God is sovereign over all authorities (Romans 13:1, Daniel 2:21; 4:17, Proverbs 8:15, John 19:11). The only lawful recourse for believers is prayer, which is described as a legal act before the Court of Heaven. Prayer is not just a plea for help but a formal petition for judgment and removal of illegitimate power.

7. Praying for Systems and Individuals

  • While believers are called to pray for individuals in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2), the focus should also be on praying against evil systems themselves. The episode emphasizes living as “light and salt” in the world, being subject to governing authorities, and fulfilling the Great Commission.

8. Spiritual Warfare: Prayer and Fasting

  • Spiritual warfare is real and scripturally grounded (Ephesians 6:10-18). The episode encourages listeners to engage in prayer and fasting as acts of spiritual authority, citing examples from Moses (Exodus 32), Esther (Esther 4), and Daniel (Daniel 9). These acts can break the power of evil systems and bring about divine intervention.

9. Practical Implications for Believers

  • The role of the Body of Messiah is not violent overthrow but persistent prayer and fasting. Prayer aligns believers with God’s decisions, enabling justice without chaos. Listeners are invited to join in spiritual warfare, maintain personal holiness, and pray for leaders, nations, and one another.

10. Invitation to Discipleship

  • The episode closes with an invitation to enter into a covenant relationship with God through Yeshua Messiah, encouraging listeners to seek forgiveness, walk in obedience, and pursue a faith-based, Torah-honoring lifestyle.

Scriptural References

  • 2 Timothy 3:1-4
  • Romans 3:23; 1:20-32; 13:1-7
  • Daniel 2:21; 4:17; 7
  • Proverbs 8:15
  • John 19:11
  • 1 Timothy 2:1-2
  • Matthew 6:33; 5:13-14; 28:19-20; 16:19; 18:18
  • Ephesians 6:10-18
  • Exodus 32
  • Esther 4
  • Daniel 9
  • Psalm 2; 122:6
  • Titus 3
  • 1 Peter 2
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:17
  • Galatians 5:22-25
  • 1 Corinthians 5:9-13
  • Luke 5:16
  • 2 Corinthians 6:2
  • Isaiah 55:6-9

Action Steps & Reflection

  • Engage in prayer and fasting for the collapse of evil systems and the salvation of those in authority.
  • Maintain personal holiness and avoid unholy company.
  • Pray for leaders, nations, and fellow believers.
  • Study the Word and seek God’s Kingdom and righteousness.
  • Consider entering into a covenant relationship with God if you have not already done so.

Connect & Respond

Closing Blessing

May you be most blessed, fellow saints in training. Have an overcoming Sabbath and a productive, blessed week in Yeshua Messiah.

The Two Afflictions That Get God’s Attention

by | Apr 3, 2025

Messianic Torah Observer Podcast Episode: The Two Afflictions That Get God's Attention Host: Rod Thomas Date: April 3, 2025 Episode Summary: In this episode, Rod Thomas shares his thoughts ahead of the spring feast and discusses the significance of Yom Kippur, the Day...

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Have We Finished the Great Commission — and Triggered the End Times?

by | Jan 9, 2026 | Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer Sabbath Thoughts & Reflections

Welcome, beloved saints of the Most High! I’m Rod Thomas, and I’m honored to bring you another installment of the Messianic Torah Observer. On this unusually warm Preparation Day here in DFW, I invite you to join me as we tackle a provocative question: Have we truly finished the Great Commission—and could this be the very thing that triggers the End Times?
In this episode, I share my personal reflections and biblical analysis after reading a recent BlazeTV article featuring global missions leader Douglas Cobb. Cobb claims that within the next decade, every people group on earth will have access to the Gospel, and that this milestone could unleash the End Times and prompt the return of Messiah. But is this really what Scripture teaches?
Here’s what you can expect as I walk you through this timely discussion:
  • My take on Cobb’s claims: I break down the metrics and milestones cited by mission organizations, including Bible translation efforts and church planting, and ask whether these truly fulfill Yeshua’s mandate.
  • A deep dive into the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24): We’ll explore the sequence of events Yeshua said must occur before the End comes, and what it means for the Gospel to be preached to all nations.
  • The true meaning of the Great Commission: I challenge the idea that simply distributing Bibles or building churches is enough. Instead, I emphasize the importance of teaching, modeling, and living out the Gospel of the Kingdom—Yeshua-focused Torah Living.
  • Why I believe the Great Commission is far from complete: Drawing from Scripture and history, I argue that the true Gospel has not been proclaimed to any appreciable degree since the early centuries AD, and that the Church Triumphant has missed the mark.
  • Comparing Christian traditions: I discuss how Catholics, Orthodox, Protestants, Evangelicals, and Charismatics each interpret the Great Commission differently—and why many approaches fall short of true discipleship.
  • Who decides when the mission is complete? Only Abba Yah knows the times and seasons. I reflect on what it means for us to walk in covenant, obey Torah, and embody Kingdom principles as we await Messiah’s return.
  • A call to action: I invite you to consider your own relationship with Yehovah and encourage you to seek true discipleship, covenant living, and a deeper understanding of the Gospel of the Kingdom.
Throughout this episode, I share my heart, my convictions, and my hope that we, as a remnant of elect and chosen ones, will rise to fulfill the true Great Commission in these last days. If you have questions, need prayer, or want to connect, please reach out to me at perceptionwp@gmail.com or leave a voice message at themessianictorahobserver.org.
Referenced links:
Thank you for spending time with me today. May you be most blessed, fellow saints in training. Take care, and let’s continue to walk the narrow path together until our King returns!

The Two Afflictions That Get God’s Attention

by | Apr 3, 2025

Messianic Torah Observer Podcast Episode: The Two Afflictions That Get God's Attention Host: Rod Thomas Date: April 3, 2025 Episode Summary: In this episode, Rod Thomas shares his thoughts ahead of the spring feast and discusses the significance of Yom Kippur, the Day...

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Runway to the Royal Priesthood-How Hebrews Builds the Case for Yeshua as our Melchizedekian High Priest: Part 8 of our Melchizedek Series

by | Jan 1, 2026 | Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Title: Runway to the Royal Priesthood—How Hebrews Builds the Case for Yeshua as Our Melchizedekian High Priest
Episode Description: Are you ready to discover the deeper meaning behind Yeshua’s role as our Melchizedekian High Priest? In this powerful episode, Rod Thomas guides you through the Book of Hebrews, revealing how its author builds a compelling case for Yeshua’s unique priesthood and what it means for Messianic believers today.
What You’ll Learn:
  • Why the Melchizedekian priesthood is central to the true faith once delivered
  • How Hebrews connects Yeshua’s ministry to Torah, covenant, and spiritual identity
  • The difference between Levitical and Melchizedekian priesthood—and why it matters now
  • Practical responsibilities of believers as royal priests: praise, prayer, teaching, and living set-apart lives
  • The “runway” of Hebrews chapters 1–4: Yeshua’s superiority to angels, humanity, Moses, and the promise of true rest
Why Listen? If you’ve ever wondered how Yeshua fulfills the Torah, why the priesthood matters, or how your faith connects to the Kingdom, this episode will equip you with assurance, hope, and a deeper sense of identity in Messiah.
Resources & Links:
Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts, questions, or testimonies—your journey as a royal priest matters!

The Two Afflictions That Get God’s Attention

by | Apr 3, 2025

Messianic Torah Observer Podcast Episode: The Two Afflictions That Get God's Attention Host: Rod Thomas Date: April 3, 2025 Episode Summary: In this episode, Rod Thomas shares his thoughts ahead of the spring feast and discusses the significance of Yom Kippur, the Day...

read more

Israel’s Inextricable Link to our Salvation Part 7-My Thoughts & Reflections on Torah Reading Vayigash-And He (Judah) Approached

by | Dec 26, 2025 | Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer's Sabbath Thoughts & Reflections

Character Trait Similarities with Yosef and Yeshua

Show Notes

Title: Israel’s Inextricable Link to Our Salvation—Reflections on Torah Reading Vayigash
Host: Rod Thomas, Messianic Torah Observer
Date: Preparation Day, Friday, December 26, 2025

Episode Overview

In this installment of TMTO, Rod explores the prophetic significance of Torah Reading Vayigash (Genesis 44:18–47:27), focusing on the powerful themes of repentance, revelation, restoration and salvation. Discover how Joseph’s story serves as a shadow picture of Yeshua Messiah’s mission, the unity and redemption of Israel’s tribes, and the ultimate salvation promised to both houses of Israel, all of which is inextricably linked to every believer’s salvation.

Key Topics

  • Vayigash Torah Portion: The meaning of “And He (Judah) Approached” and its tradition in Messianic and Orthodox communities
  • Joseph’s Revelation: How Joseph’s revealing to his brothers mirrors Yeshua’s future revelation to Israel
  • Repentance and Restoration: The sequence of repentance, revelation, and restoration as a prophetic pattern for Israel’s final redemption
  • Lost Tribes and the Remnant: Insights on the lost tribes of Israel, the concept of “all Israel will be saved,” and the importance of covenant relationship over biological descent
  • Messianic Prophecy: Connections to Romans 11, Ezekiel 37, and other key passages about the unity and salvation of Israel
  • Practical Application: Encouragement to enter into covenant with Yehovah through Yeshua Messiah and walk in obedience

Resources & Contact

  • Scripture References: Genesis 44–47, Romans 11, Ezekiel 37, Isaiah 10, Jeremiah 31, Revelation 7, and more.
  • Contact: For questions or feedback, email Rod at perceptionwp@gmail.com or leave a voice message via SpeakPipe at themessianictorahobserver.org
Closing Blessing: May you be most blessed, fellow saints in training. Have an overcoming Sabbath and a productive week in Yeshua Messiah!

The Two Afflictions That Get God’s Attention

by | Apr 3, 2025

Messianic Torah Observer Podcast Episode: The Two Afflictions That Get God's Attention Host: Rod Thomas Date: April 3, 2025 Episode Summary: In this episode, Rod Thomas shares his thoughts ahead of the spring feast and discusses the significance of Yom Kippur, the Day...

read more