Truth Versus Man’S Religious Systems

By Terry W. McHenry

The book in overview is historical and instructional in content, with the focus being on the Biblical text in terms of its original form and language and in consideration of its full and proper context linguistically, textually, historically, culturally, and literarily. It stresses the importance of moving from a knowledge of the Bible to an understanding of its life-giving instructions, being studied in its entirety as a gift to mankind from a loving creator, Elohim.

The thrust of the book is accordingly threefold:
An indictment of two of mans religious systems (Judaism and Christianity) for syncretism, corruption of Elohims written Word of truth, and abuses of religious authority, plus promulgation of religious traditions not aligned with the whole truth of Elohims Word.
A call to return to the one source of truththe written Word of Elohim understood in its originally written form and in its full and proper context.
Providing the equipping and study tools necessary to move from a mere knowledge of the Word to an understanding of its life-giving instructionshow to live a redeemed life as Elohim intended for all mankind.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jan 27, 2018
• ISBN: 9781543470840

Terry W. McHenry

The author is a recently retired, licensed professional land surveyor, whose career emphasis was primarily on complex historical research and analysis of evidence. In this profession discovery of truth is the objective, but must be substantiated by convincing analysis capable of surviving the scrutiny of the court. This is the skill set the author has applied to the writing of the book, along with the leading of the Holy Spirit. It was in 2009 that I was moved to compile a comprehensive statement of a centuries-old problem, along with the Biblical, prophetic and historical background evidencing the problem. It was in 1998 that Elohim began to open the eyes and heart of my wife and I to the depth and breadth of Elohims Written Word of truth. We soon realized what had been missing, what had side-tracked our walk with Elohim, and plateaued our spiritual growth in the process. In mainstream religion we had been instructed through syncretistic (mixed) teachings; viz., these teachings contained some truth mixed in with false history, false Biblical interpretation, and false, Biblically unsupported religious traditions.

Book preview

Copyright © 2018 by Terry W. McHenry.

Library of Congress Control Number:      2017918651

ISBN:                  Hardcover                      978-1-5434-7086-4

                            Softcover                        978-1-5434-7085-7

                            eBook                             978-1-5434-7084-0

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner. Copyright owner may be contacted at: [e-mail].

Scriptural quotations are from the New King James Study Bible version, unless otherwise noted. See Abbreviations and Textual Conventions, Page xxxi, for full attribution.

Cover design and artwork by Timothy Shaw.

Rev. date: 03/30/2018

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CONTENTS

Dedication

Prologue

Acknowledgments

Truth

Abbreviations And Textual Conventions

Introduction

Chapter 1     Relationship vs. Religion

Chapter 2     Religion as Big Business

The Business of Church

The Business of Bible Publications

The Business of Entertainment

The Business of False Historic Sites

The Mount of Beatitudes

The Tomb of Rachel

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

The Business of Tithing

Indictment

Cause

Chapter 3     Religion as Control

Introduction

Spiritual Abuse

An Ancient Malady

Traditions and Religious Control

Examples of Religious Abuses Which Have Provided Opportunities for Control

In Conclusion

Chapter 4     Historical Overview

General Comments on History

The Beginnings

Judaism

Christianity

The Promised Land as a Geographic Crossroads

Judaism and Christianity Have Evolved

Ancient Judaism

Diaspora Judaism

Modern-Day Judaism

Modern-Day Christianity

Summarization

Chapter 5     Religious Factions: Sects, Movements, and Denominations

Introduction

Part 1: Factions within Judaism

Ancient Religious Sects

Modern Religious Sects

Modern Jewish Political Movements

Summary, Part 1

Part 2: Factions within Christendom

Introduction

Historical Overview

Definition of Terms

Categorizing Christian Factions

The Four Christian Families

Summary, Part 2

Conclusion

Chapter 6     Law

Written Law and Oral Law

Christendom’s Treatment of Law

Christianity and Salvation

Salvation as Biblically Taught

Three Elements Involved in the Outworking of Salvation

Salvation: Related Key Words Defined

Judaism’s Treatment of Law

Torah

Tanakh

Oral law

Pharisaic Law, Customs

Talmud

Judaism and Salvation

Natural Law

Historical Champions of Natural Law

Noachide Laws

The Jerusalem Council

U.S. Congress Adopts Noachide Laws

Chapter 7     The Biblical Covenants and Two Houses of Israel

Covenants in General

Elements of Ancient Covenants

Principal Biblical Covenants

Edenic Covenant

Adamic Covenant

Noahic Covenant

Abrahamic Covenant

Mosaic Covenant

Promised Land/Deuteronomic Covenant

Davidic Covenant

New Covenant

Comparative Biblical Covenants Overview

The Biblical Two Houses of Israel

Biblical History

Example Citations of the Biblical Two Houses:

Determination of Which House by Context

Misunderstanding the Biblical Two Houses

Tribe of Judah

Biblical Text

Israel

Misuse and Abuse of the Biblical Two Houses:

Within Messianic Circles

Within Christendom

Within Judaism

Concluding Remarks

Chapter 8     Torah: Foundation and Source of Truth

Torah: A Symbol and Source of Legalism?

Structure and Overview of Torah and the Tanakh

Understanding Faith and the Torah

The Torah and its Four Levels of Understanding

The Torah as Multidimensional

Torah in Ancient Perspective

The Torah in Translation

Chapter 9     Doctrines and Theologies Contrasted with Biblical Truth

Introduction

Defining Terms

Theology

Doctrine

Exegesis

Hermeneutics

The Church

Israel

Israel, Two Houses of

Israelite

Israeli

Jewish (Jew)

Biblical Interpretation

Block Logic

Linear, Step Logic

An Account in Both Logic Systems

Two Forms of Biblical Interpretation

Greco-Roman

Hebraic

Western Thinking vs. Hebraic Thinking

Western

Hebraic

Common Doctrines and Theologies

Replacement Theology (Supersessionism)

Preterism

Dispensationalism

Antinomianism

Trinitarianism

Covenant Theology

Systematic Theology

Process Theology

Reformed Theology

Deism

Natural Theology

Chapter Summary

Chapter 10   The Creator’s Cycles of Righteousness vs. Man’s Traditions

Introduction

Sources of Tradition

Biblical Calendars

Cycles of Righteousness—Elohim’s Feasts (Mo’edim)

The Four Spring Feasts of YHVH

Passover (Pesach)

Feast of Unleavened Bread (Chag Ha Matzot)

Feast of First Fruits (Yom Bikkurim)

Feast of Weeks (Shavuot)

The Three Fall Feasts of YHVH

Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah/Rosh HaShanah)

Day of Atonement (Yom Kippurim)

Feast of Tabernacles (Succot)

Shemini Atzeret (Eighth Day)

Simchat Torah (Ninth Day)

Purim

The Account of the Book of Esther

The Account of the Book of Ruth

Summary of the Accounts of the Books of Esther and Ruth

Chanukkah

Man’s Traditions—Corruptions of Elohim’s Written Word

Easter

Christmas

Is There Any Relationship between Christmas and Chanukkah?

The Sabbath

In Conclusion to Man’s Traditions

Chapter 11   Biblical Interpretation Tools and Key Misinterpretations

Introduction

Part 1: Biblical Interpretation Tools and Equipping

Understanding Textual History—The Torah

Understanding Textual History—The Tanakh

Understanding Textual History—The Apostolic Scriptures

Canonization of the Biblical Texts

Canonization

Canonicity of the Tanakh (Hebrew Scriptures)

Canonicity of the Apostolic Scriptures

Textual Sources Available Today (Bible Versions)

Bound Bible Versions

The Bible: From the Old Latin to First Printing, Through to the King James Version of 1611

Preprinting Press Era Bibles

Postprinting Press Era Bibles

English Bible Comparisons

Bible Software Sources

Translation vs. Interpretation

Concrete vs. Abstract Thought

Proper Context

Linguistic Context

Textual Context

Historical Context

Cultural Context

Literary Context and Devices

Parallelism

Simile

Metaphor

Metonymy

Hyperbole

Irony

Personification

Allegory

Anthropomorphism

Anthropopathism

Litotes

Synecdoche

Euphemism

Pleonasm

Repetition

Climax

Obscure Figures of Speech

Fables

Symbols

Types and Foreshadows

Parables

Chiastic Structure

Speech Mannerisms

Idioms

Word Puns

Back to the Original Text?

Objective and Reality

Intended Meaning

Recipient Understanding

Scripture as Interpreter and Dictionary

Interpretive Approach and Equipping

Introduction

Presuppositions

Spiritual Leading

Inerrancy and Intelligibility of Elohim’s Word

Torah-Based Community Involvement

Asking the Right Questions

Word or Phrase Interpretation

Employ the Clear to Explain the Obscure

Progressive Revelation

Distinguish What the Bible Records from What It Condones

Realize the Messianic-centric Focus of the Bible

Realize a Fuller Sense Exists within the Scriptural Writings

Interpreting Parables

Interpreting Prophecy

Interrelationship of the Two Canons (Testaments, so-called)

Resolving Seeming Biblical Discrepancies

Resources

Strong’s Concordance and Numbering System

Interlinears

Bible Software

Lexicons

Biblical and Historical Encyclopedias and Atlases

Biblical Commentaries

Selected Teaching Resources

Selected Books and Papers

Need for Discretion

Edification by the Holy Spirit

Part 2: Key Biblical Misinterpretations

The Biblical Sabbath

First the Natural, Then the Spiritual

Mikvah/Baptism

Peter’s Vision: Acts 10

Kosher/Kashrut and Leviticus 11

Oaths and Swearing in the Name of YHVH

The Jerusalem Council: Acts 15

Lying—Is It Biblically Condoned?

Homosexuality

Life, Death, and the Number 3

Self-Defense, Revenge, and an Eye for an Eye?

Reference to the Scriptures

The End from the Beginning

New Testament Originally Written in Greek?

Works of the Law

The Lunar Sabbath?

Part 3: The Messianic/Hebrew Roots Awakening

Overriding Tenets

Future Direction And Challenges

Recommendations

Chapter Conclusion

Chapter 12   Conclusion

Concluding Overview

The Greek Jesus

The Hebrew Yeshua

Full Conclusion

Covenantal Relationships

Primal Man as the Common Denominator

Historical Indicators of Mankind’s Psyche

Principal Systems of Modern Mankind

Introspection

Objective and Closing

Epilogue

Appendices

Appendix I        Principal Names and Titles of Elohim

Appendix II       The Necessity of Asking Questions

Appendix III     Chiastic Structures

Appendix IV     Beit Midrash Guidelines

Appendix V      Biblical Word Studies

Appendix VI     Biblical Tithing

Appendix VII   Healthy Community

Glossary

Bibliography

DEDICATION

This book is dedicated to our four children—Erick, Scott, Steven, and Danna—their spouses, their children, and their children’s children. My prayer, and that of my wife, Marti, is that they each will heed the words of Deuteronomy 6:6–9 (cf. Jeremiah 31:31–34).

For all who are sincere seekers of truth, my prayer is that they will find the content of this book to be helpful in walking out the teachings and instructions of Elohim’s Written Word of Truth—the biblical record we have been given.

From the cowardice that shirks from revealed truth,

from the laziness that is content with half-truths,

from the arrogance that thinks it knows all truth,

O Elohim of Truth, deliver us.

~ Ancient Prayer (Anonymous)

PROLOGUE

Mere religion is a poor substitute for a relationship with the living God, made possible through true repentance.¹

H ow has it come about that today two seemingly diverse faith systems began from the same foundational roots, acknowledge portions of the same ancient writings, and worship the same Creator Elohim? Yet there exists a polarization between them that for centuries has been so compelling and so widespread that it has cost the lives of untold millions, and still persists to this very day in virtually all parts of the world. Why? What historical events, cultural evolutions, traditions, interpretations, and teachings have brought us to the point where we are today? What reliable sources exist where answers to these and similar questions can be sought with confidence? Within the ensuing pages of this book, the author presents for weighed and careful consideration historical facts and little understood origins that, when combined, will open up to the reader the means to answer these and similar questions.

This is a book about truths and nontruths, and the sources of each. It is written for both those who practice Judaism and those who practice Christianity, and also for anyone who seeks to know truth and its source. To understand and benefit from the content of this book, the reader is strongly encouraged to do the following:

1. To lay aside his or her preconceptions surrounding the general subject matter, remembering that we humans by adulthood have amassed conclusions on a number of topics. Certain of those conclusions are based on either wrong or incomplete information, and therefore the conclusions themselves are not entirely valid. I challenge the reader to not be too quick to defend your understandings until you have studied the resources contained within these pages and have evaluated the veracity of your understandings and beliefs in light thereof.

2. To independently verify the historical information presented and the facts and statements made in the following pages. For this is written by a seeker of truth, but nevertheless a man and therefore one who, like his fellow man, is also fallible.

3. Have your Bible close at hand when reading this book. Take the time to look up the referenced verses, to read the footnotes as they are encountered, and to make margin notes to yourself for later recall. Upon conclusion of reading this book, explore the carefully selected extrabiblical sources cited by footnote, or found in the Bibliography, for a deeper understanding of the various subtopics. As you are reading, make sure you have a correct understanding of any words or phrases that may be unfamiliar to you, as you encounter them, by consulting the Glossary at the end of this book.

If you are a seeker of truth, this is a book that could very well unlock for you the means to gain a deeper understanding of the Scriptures—understandings that were intended to be revealed by those who, many centuries ago and under divine revelation,² originally penned the words we read in the Bible.

Few readers of English versions of the Bible stop to consider that what they are reading has gone through multiple translations, from copies of the originals (known as autographs) and subsequent copies/translations, having varying levels of authenticity. Additionally, most do not question why today there are so many versions of the Bible, or that proper textual, cultural, historical, and literary context is critical to correctly interpreting what the writer meant to convey. It is a fact that editorial liberties abound in most Bibles and are most frequently there to propagate denominational or rabbinic biases and teachings. Moreover, idiomatic phrases (i.e., Hebraic or Aramaic idioms) are found throughout the Bible, are often difficult for English speakers to correctly understand, and thus are often completely missed or incorrectly translated and understood. Finally, while the Bible contains historical accounts, it is not comprised of a complete or entirely sequentially ordered record of history (nor was it intended to). Understanding history from accurate and reliable sources alone is a tremendous aid to correctly understanding the biblical record.

Of tremendous importance to proper biblical interpretation is an understanding of who the targeted recipients were. The composite of books comprising the Bible were not written to you and me in the twenty-first century but rather to persons of completely different cultures, times, and historical settings, over a period spanning nearly two thousand years. It is correct to state that the books of the Bible were written for us, but not to us. Why is this so important? The principles for living a life in accord with Elohim’s will are applicable to all of mankind, and over the whole history of man (yesterday, today, and forever). But to understand these principles, we must be able to transport ourselves back to the time and setting in which they were originally written. What was the intended meaning of the writers, and how were the passages understood by the early recipients of the message? Most of the original writers of the Bible did not knowingly set out to write for the Bible. Instead, they were chronicling historical events, teaching, prophesying, conveying warnings, or responding to situations occurring in communities where they lived or where the Gospel had been taught. Our goal must be one of correctly understanding the principles intended to be conveyed so that we can correctly apply them to our lives today in a setting and culture far removed from that of the originally penned works.

Moreover, there exists a form of teaching in the Western world that has thoroughly entrenched itself in our culture for centuries. It is known as homiletics. The word is derived from the Latin and Greek. In the Latin homileticus carries the meaning of conversation or preaching, from the word homily. In the Greek homilein carries the meaning to consort with, or to address, a crowd—homilos. In essence then homiletics is the format all Westerners know as lecture, discourse, or sermon. The precept behind this manner of teaching or imparting of information is that the deliverer is more versed and knowledgeable in the subject matter than the audience receiving the message. This is an assumption that simply is not always true. More importantly, the whole format of homiletical discourse affords the opportunity to spread opinion and biased thinking that is not the truth, or is a mixture of truth and fallacy. In particular, it is this very fact that has caused so much misinformation and confusion over the centuries surrounding the Holy Scriptures and what they actually teach and impart.

All of the above is to say that for one to begin to understand the mind and purposes of the Creator Elohim, and to know where you as an individual fit into His purposes, you must become a committed student³ of His Written Word. For it is primarily His Written Word that is the vehicle by which He communicates His truths to us today.

At first this may seem to be a daunting task, but it truly is not. Considerable materials and resources are available today that will provide a truthful, solid foundation upon which to build a proper understanding. These materials, however, are not found in the mainstream of either Judaism or Christianity. The reason for this is that both Judaism and Christianity centuries ago strayed from their common foundation—the Holy Scriptures (in original textual form).

This book is also about the chasm that was created by man’s errant, self-serving ways, leading up to and including the first century AD, and how propagation thereof has brought us to the circumstances of today.

What you hold in your hands is not written as an exhaustive treatment of the topics addressed, but rather as an overview and primer of key historical events, and the consequent human reactions that have operated to sidetrack mankind from recognizing and adhering to the one true source of Light and Life.⁴ However, abundant scriptural citations and reliable reference materials are provided, along with a comprehensive Glossary of words and terms, so that the reader can grasp the concepts posited and be led to reliable, more in-depth study sources.

As a prerequisite to embarking upon this journey of seeking deeper truths, pause for a few moments to read the following scriptural references:

The cover of this book depicts three icons superimposed over and beside an outline of the modern-day State of Israel. Judaism⁵ and Christianity⁶ are represented by the menorah and the cross, respectively. Each of these two faiths share much in common, but each one has also allowed man’s errant ways and rebellion against Elohim to enter into their belief systems over the centuries. Thus, today there is seen in both the result of a mixing (known as syncretism) of the profane with the pure.⁷

Above the graphic of Israel is depicted a third icon, a Torah Scroll, with three rays of light emitting upward to the scroll from Jerusalem, the place where the Creator Elohim chose to place His Holy Name, YHVH (see Deut. 26:2; Psalm 46:4, 87:1–3; Rev. 3:12). The Torah Scroll has become the icon or symbol of Elohim’s Written Word of truth. In its originally written form, those who were divinely inspired to pen, or to dictate to a scribe, the Holy Spirit inspired Torah text, wrote on specially prepared animal skins stitched together into a continuous scroll.

The cover graphic illustrates in pictorial form three elements of the content of this book, and expresses graphically the interconnection between these icons, yet also illustrates a distinction in what today they represent—a separation brought about through man’s doing, not Elohim’s.

Every belief system will ultimately bear fruit—and the fruit will be consistent with the root from which it comes.⁸

Before proceeding, there is a critically important point that warrants emphasizing. It concerns the matter of conversion from one religious system of man to another. Let it be clear to the reader that this author is not a proponent of religious conversions, nor will any portion of the book’s content be promoting such in any form or fashion.

Conversion in the above context is defined as follows: Man, either individually or in a corporate sense, who has subscribed to one of a number of mankind’s religious systems, attempting to persuade another to convert to his religious system (of man), from the other’s religious system (of man).

No! Conversion as defined above is detestable to this author and, I submit, grieves the heart of Elohim. Why? Because it is symptomatic of man placing his trust in mankind, rather than in Elohim and His Written Word.

Instead, this book strives to promote an awareness of truth, and its source. Truth stands on its own merits. It does not require a third party (another man) for validation, to convince you of it, or to convert you to it. Moreover, truth does not wait for your approval or disapproval. It is what it is—reality. And reality does not depend on your or my acceptance. Truth cannot change, and it will never be out of date. It is in fact, independent of anyone’s opinion or understanding.

What is required is a sincere desire to discover the truth, some initial redirection in identifying its source, and how to begin to understand the source.⁹ Once you are on to it, the Spirit of Elohim will provide discernment and lead the way in truth from that point forward.

Join me now in our journey together as students of the Word of Elohim, and as fellow seekers of truth.

Terry W. McHenry

Reno, Nevada

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

C redit first and foremost for the inspiration of this book must go to Messiah Yeshua, the written and living Word of Truth (John 1:1-4, 14; Psalm 119:142). It was the moving of the Holy Spirit on my life some nearly 20 years ago that opened my eyes and heart to the deeper truths to be found in Elohim’s Written Word.

I am grateful to my wife of 44 years, who is my partner, best friend, soul mate, and precious gift from Elohim. Were it not for her patience and encouragement to bring this book to completion, it would not have become a reality. Although in the background for much of the project’s duration, she has taught me and honed me through various content and concept discussions that have enhanced the book’s overall value.

In our initial hunger and quest for truth, Elohim early-on placed in our path Richard and Ellie Agee. We are forever grateful for their nurturing insights and patience, as they discipled us over many long weekends.

Although too numerous to name, there are a number of Hebrew Roots teachers and presenters (see listing in Chapter 11, under the Interpretative Approach and Equipping, Resources sub-section) who have been instrumental in our growth and maturity. In each case these are exegetes who provided us with a balanced understanding of Elohim’s Word of Truth.

For refining of the book’s content and presentation I am grateful to several reviewers who devoted their time and insights toward improving all or a portion of the manuscript’s flow, grammar, punctuation and spelling. Notable among these are Betty Littlejohn, and two others who humbly chose to remain anonymous. For permission to adapt portions of their works cited in the content of this book, I am grateful in particular to Daniel Agee, Tim Hegg, and Brad Scott.

For the many seekers of truth who have crossed our path over the years, I am forever grateful. They have honed me, challenged me, and caused me to dig deeper into the Word of Truth.

The front cover concept and front and rear cover text are the author’s, but for translating the cover concept and expressing it in the resulting art work, credit goes to the fine talents of Timothy Shaw.

Finally, for the publisher, Xlibris, I am both impressed and thankful for the expertise of their staff. They have been wonderful to work with, and most helpful in guiding me through the process of pulling all the pieces together to make the book a reality.

TRUTH

img1.jpg

(Tav Mem Aleph)

The three Hebrew letters above, aleph, mem, tav (read from right to left), spell TRUTH. Transliterated into the English, the word is pronounced emet.¹⁰

Each of the three Hebrew letters take on the form of standing on two feet (in difference with other of the Hebrew letters); meaning that in truth there is balance, stability, integrity and fidelity to a standard: Torah = Truth = Torah.

The aleph and the tav are the first and last letters of the Hebrew alphabet, and the mem is the middle letter. Thus, truth is comprised of the first, the last and everything in between (the mem).

We read in John Chapter One, verses 1 and 14: "In the beginning was the Word [Torah], and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And the Word became flesh [Messiah Yeshua] and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth (bracketed text added)."

In John Chapter Fourteen, verses 6, and 15 - 17: I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. If you love me keep my commandments [Torah]. And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever – the Spirit of truth …

Messiah Yeshua is the first (aleph), the last (tav), and everything in between (mem). He is the Word [Torah], the way, the life, and the TRUTH, img2.jpg

ABBREVIATIONS AND TEXTUAL CONVENTIONS

Biblical References, Quotations

Scriptural references and quotations found throughout this book are from Nelson’s New King James Version Study Bible, copyright © 1997 by Thomas Nelson, Inc., unless otherwise noted.

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1979, 1980, 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

The term Bible is a reference to the whole of both the Old Testament and New Testaments, in their originally written meaning.

The term Scripture(s) is a reference specifically to the Old Testament or Tanakh, in their originally written meaning.

The term Apostolic Scriptures is a reference specifically to the New Testament, in its originally written meaning.

The term Torah is a reference specifically to the first five books of the Bible (Gen., Ex., Lev., Num. and Deut.), often seen referenced as the Books of Moses or the Torah of Moses, and with the qualification that the textual meaning thereof be as close to that as originally written as possible to determine.

Word

The terms Word, Written Word or Word of Elohim refer to any or all of the text of the Bible; and, as close in meaning to that as originally written (be it in the Hebrew, Greek or Aramaic) as possible to determine, and in contrast to later alterations, versions or modern translations.

God, Lord

The terms GOD, God, or LORD, Lord, often used in modern English Bible translations, and also seen in various Christian writings, are titles. They are not the name of the Creator of the universe. Within Judaism, most usually seen are titles for the Creator such as Ha Shem, Adonai, G-d, or G-D. These non-Scriptural terms will be replaced within this book by use of the Creator’s Scripturally identified names of Elohim (in the Hebrew img3.jpg ), or YHVH (alternately, YHWH), which in the Hebrew is img4.jpg . The name Elohim is the plural form of EL (see, e.g., Gen. 1:26), seen in relation to the creation. The title God used in most English Bibles (e.g., Gen. 1:1-3; Deut. 10:17; and Psalm 68), is Elohim in the original Hebrew text. The Name’s generally accepted meaning is: the all-powerful, Supreme Creator. The "tetragrammaton (YHVH) or four-letter name of the Creator, is the I AM, or existent One, translated as LORD" in most English Bibles (see, e.g., Exodus 3:14; Malachi 3:6). The Name’s generally accepted meaning is: I AM the One who never changes. Within Judaism the common practice has been to use Adonai or Ha Shem in place of YHVH, out of a false fear of mispronouncing the Name, or pronouncing a Name too sacred to be uttered. For further information on Names in general, and specifically various names and titles of Elohim found within the Scriptures, see Appendix I of this book. Also, the reader is referred to Book 2, Walk in the Light Series, entitled Names, by Todd D. Bennet. See the Bibliography for details.

Old, New Testament; Scriptures, Apostolic Scriptures

The terms Old Testament and New Testament for the most part will be replaced by "Scriptures and Apostolic Scriptures, respectively. In the few cases where today’s commonly seen designations for the two separate canons are used, it will be for specific reasons explained in that use, or for transitioning the reader into the adopted convention in the earlier portions of this book. Further, the term Old Testament is meaningless unless there is also a New Testament, yet Biblically speaking the books which today comprise the so-called New Testament did not exist at the time of the writing of either testament. By use of the term Old Testament the early Church fathers were implying inferior testament in contrast to the so-called new testament, the latter which they incorrectly perceived as a better word of Elohim. Thus, the terms old testament and new testament carried the impetus for what became the Church’s thinking that the new covenant had replaced and made obsolete the covenants made with Israel, and found in the so-called Old Testament. In the emerging theology of the early Christian Church these two erroneous monikers fueled the fires of supersessionism," or what later became known as replacement theology (see Chapter 9, under Replacement Theology).

Footnoted Bible Reference Abbreviations

Footnoted and quoted Bible references have been abbreviated using standard convention abbreviations (e.g., Deut. for the Book of Deuteronomy, the 5th Book of the Bible and of Torah).

Law, law

The term Law (capitalized) specifically refers to the Written Word of Elohim, and by way of context may refer to Torah, the Ten Commandments, to other ordinances, decrees and statutes of Elohim so labeled, or to the whole counsel of the Written Word of Elohim.

The term law (not capitalized) specifically refers to man-made law(s), most notably the oral law, or oral Torah (so called).

The term oral law will be used as a general statement for the host of man-made laws, including, but not necessarily limited to, the Talmud and Rabbinic dictates, including Halacha, Minhagim, Takanot or Gezerot, and Ma’asim. Refer to the Glossary for definitions, or to Chapter 6 for explanations and usage. Also, when a specific aspect of the Rabbinic oral law and customs is referenced or intended, it will be so noted in lieu of the general term oral law.

Bibliographic Directives

References or footnotes to a source in the Bibliography may be cited first by the author’s surname, followed by title of the book, with a colon following, giving the page number(s), all in brackets. For example: [Wilson, Our Father Abraham: 297]. The Bibliography is listed in alphabetical order by author surnames, followed by title of the book and publication information. Direct quotations, or portions thereof, from an author will be shown in quotations followed by, or footnoted with, the above form of bracketed citation, or alternatively by footnote containing the citation information found in the Bibliography.

Historical Era Convention

The historical era nomenclature adopted for use in this book is B.C. (for the pre-Christian era; generally read as before Christ) and A.D. (for the Latin Anno Domini, in the year of the dominion of the/our Lord). This author is well aware of the controversy over use of this system vs. what is probably the second most common system, that of B.C.E. (for Before the Common Era) and C.E. (for the Common Era), today used primarily by Judaism. In actuality both systems have their drawbacks, but the one adopted herein is of the longest historical usage, and therefore the one most widely recognized. The B.C./A.D. system is not taught in the Bible, and did not come into usage until several centuries after the death of Yeshua (Jesus). It does not recognize a zero dividing point in time, nor account for what most scholars generally agree to be the birth of the Messiah somewhere around 4 B.C. Additionally there is no such period as the common era. Its usage in the form of B.C.E./C.E. has been by those choosing not to recognize the Biblical/ historical personage of Yeshua (Jesus) as the Messiah, and more recently by those of religious tolerance leanings.

Jew, Jewish

The terms Jew or Jewish will be limited due to their multiple connotations in usage, which can be as follows:

1. A reference to someone of the ancestral lineage of King David, and the tribe of Judah (the correct usage).

2. A reference to someone ethnically linked to any one of the 12 Tribes of Jacob.

3. A reference to an individual, or corporately inclusive of those born in the land of Israel (known as Sabra(s)).

4. A reference to someone who practices in any one of the recognized sects of Judaism, irregardless of ethnicity or place of birth.

5. A reference to someone of either maternal or paternal consanguinity such as to satisfy past or present Israeli Government criteria under the law of return (i.e., for making Aliyah).

Where used the author will qualify, either by context or explanation, the intended meaning of the terms Jew or Jewish. Note also that the term Jew as first employed was in the form of a derogatory label, later coming into common, more-or-less accepted usage.

Messianic Naming Convention

For the name Jesus the author will substitute Yeshua (also spelled variously as Yeshu’a or Yahshua), as His given Hebrew name was Yeshu’a. Jesus is the Latin form of Iēsoús, the Greek transliteration of Yeshu’a. Common usage of the name Jesus did not come into being until the Third or Fourth Century, A.D. The fact that Yeshua was by birth Jewish (meaning he was in the line of David, and of the Tribe of Judah) is significant in terms of Hebrew thought and practice. Here a name was more than a title by which to identify someone. A name was believed to reveal the essence, character, reputation or destiny of the one to whom it was given. In the case of Yeshua this was born out both physically and spiritually (see Isa. 9:6-7). The Hebrew verb yasha means to save or to deliver, and the noun yeshu’ah, salvation, derives from it. In the Hebrew Bible, this verb is not used in the sense of escape to heaven. Rather, a careful study of its many occurrences reveals that the main idea is to liberate, to deliver from evil, or to free from oppression and the bondage of sin. [Wilson, Our Father Abraham: 179-181]

Religion, Religious

Use of the terms religion or religious found in this book will be defined as follows, unless otherwise specifically qualified:

Religion and religious practices amount to man pursuing a god of his own making and on his own terms. For purposes of this writing, that is the definition that will be implied when either term is used, unless otherwise noted.

Although the etymology of the word religion is somewhat in dispute, it is derived from the Latin religiō, or religāre, which means variously to tie, bind or return to bondage. To be bound to the Torah and its teaching and instructions in how to live out a redeemed life in accordance with Elohim’s will, for all humanity, is one thing. But to be bound up in man’s doctrines and theologies that differ from the Word of Elohim, is altogether another circumstance, the latter being how religion has largely manifested itself in our world today.

Glossary Directives

Words or phrases found in the body of the text of this book which have been defined in the Glossary will be so noted by the word or phrase being expressed in italics (either bolded or non-bolded).

INTRODUCTION

There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.

Proverbs 16:25

T he subject matter of this book addresses in part man’s historical propensity to accept the teachings of his fellow man as truth, and therefore presumed as having a greater weight of authority than the Written Word of the Elohim of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as presented in the Bible— in its entirety and as originally penned . The Bible’s veracity will be discussed with the objective of providing the reader with tools to correctly interpret and understand its intended message and purpose.

Discussion will be offered concerning mankind’s nature in terms of greed, lust for power and control, and self-serving motives throughout history and, specifically, with respect to spiritual or religious matters. These motives have been the source of numerous misguided doctrines and theologies that, unfortunately, have built one upon another for centuries. They have come about from an innocent lack of understanding, from an effort to comprehend and explain a biblical principle without the proper background, or from an intent to perpetuate accepted though (biblically) unsupported teachings that have evolved into religious dogma. This has occurred in both Judaism and Christianity, the result of which has been abandonment of the Written Word of Elohim in favor of man’s errant teachings.¹¹

The author will discuss man’s inclination to individually develop his own standards of right and wrong, apart from any higher authority, no matter the seeming credibility of the source.¹² This in turn has led to what this author labels as the pick-and-choose mentality, wherein even if the individual happens to select a reliable, truthful source of information as guidance, often only portions are regarded as valid. The decision as to what is judged to be valid is based on the individual’s self-derived standards (known as relativism¹³). Thus, as much of humankind goes about living out its own standards contrary to a common reliable source, misunderstanding and discord increasingly abound.

It never occurs to most that perhaps the Creator of the universe put in place a standard for all of mankind to follow.¹⁴ Ironically, even for those who acknowledge a common creator, many tend to pick and choose from the Creator’s Standards only those portions they will follow. And thus is summarized a history of the human condition from the beginning, as is recorded in the Bible—consisting of the Torah, Tanakh,¹⁵ and Apostolic Scriptures (or New Testament).

Related to man’s propensity to trust in his fellow man over providential guidance, and his desire to establish his own standards, is the innate tendency to stereotype others with whom he comes in contact. Stereotyping is the act of drawing conclusions about an individual or group of persons based on first impressions or first encounter. In other words, it is a judgment made on incomplete, and therefore inconclusive, information. In colloquial vernacular, stereotyping is referred to as placing someone in a box. The problem with this seemingly natural tendency is that it is based on one’s own life experiences and value system, which of course differs for each of us. Thus, judgments are made about others with limited information about them, and from a frame of reference that in itself is not only limited, but widely diverse. The human condition is such that we have all been stereotyped, and have stereotyped others with whom we have come in contact. Simply stated, stereotyping is another form of man selecting his own standards rather than deferring to Elohim’s.

To provide a few examples, we have all made judgments about someone based on their style of dress, hair, skin color, the car they drive, the house they live in, their political leanings or religious affiliation. The list seems to be almost endless. An extreme example would be to conclude that if a bird has webbed feet it must be a duck. This, of course, is ridiculous, because many species of water fowl have webbed feet. Yet much of man’s stereotyping over the centuries has been no less ludicrous.

Closely related to stereotyping is the concept of paradigms. A paradigm is a model or perspective from which we each view a particular subject or aspect of life. For example, have you ever wondered why two people can read the same passage of Scripture and yet derive from the same words two different meanings or conclusions? It is because these two individuals have interpreted what they have read through their own, but differing, paradigms. We all interpret the daily stimuli of life through our paradigms. Our paradigm functions as the model by which we decide if the things of life are good, bad, right, or wrong. We are conditioned through life’s experiences to assume that we each have the correct model, or paradigm.

As it is with the nature of humanity, some will allow themselves from time to time to reevaluate their models of life, or paradigms, and others will not. For those who do, and as a result perceive the need to adjust or modify their model, the process of doing so is known as a paradigm shift. In virtually all aspects of life, paradigm shifts are not uncommon. We read in the Scriptures where paradigm shifts occurred. For example, the Apostle Paul’s experience on the road to Damascus was a paradigm shift of major proportions.¹⁶ Peter’s vision resulted in another important paradigm shift.¹⁷

A stereotypical model can sometimes manifest itself in the form of a fully matured (though incorrect) paradigm. We each must ask ourselves what is the source and veracity of our models surrounding life, its meaning and purpose. For many the source has been our own life’s experiences, or that of another person we regarded as knowledgeable.

From a spiritual perspective the tendencies of man’s fallibilities noted above have combined to create misunderstanding among mankind, resulting in untold suffering and misery. The irony of it all is this needless, self-inflicted grief continues to the present day.¹⁸

Narrowing our focus to the centuries-long chasm between Judaism and Christianity, we will see how these human fallibilities, in combination with historical events on the world stage, have brought us to the present-day circumstance in which a multitude have been misled into false doctrine, errant beliefs, unnecessary burdens, and, perhaps most tragically, frustration and indifference to spiritual matters. The result? Eternally damaging choices that for countless individuals have become seemingly irreversible—all brought about from inaccurate or incomplete information, compounded by an unwillingness to question and to discover the truth.

The goal, in part, of this book is to encourage its readers to give themselves permission to ask probing questions. For example, if the adherents to both Judaism and Christianity each believe they have the proper revelation for a right standing before God, and yet they noticeably differ in many of their fundamental beliefs and practices, can they both be practicing the whole (truthful) counsel of Elohim (particularly since they will both acknowledge following the same Elohim)? If the answer to the above question were to be yes, then it would have to mean that Elohim does not care how we practice our belief system, and that man is free to individually worship and acknowledge Elohim in any way he chooses,¹⁹ and yet still maintain a right standing in Elohim’s eyes. If the answer were to be no, then it would have to mean that either one or the other is completely correct in their understanding, or that both have certain but differing aspects correct, and others incorrect.²⁰ I submit the latter is the answer, and that truth is the key to unlocking the disparity.

There is nothing natural about this [i.e., asking good questions] at all. To the contrary, it goes dramatically against the grain of history. Most traditional cultures see it as the task of a parent or teacher to instruct, guide, or command. The task of the child is to obey. "Children should be seen, not heard," goes the old English proverb. "Children, be obedient to your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing to the Lord," says a famous Christian text. Socrates, who spent his life teaching people to ask questions, was condemned by the citizens of Athens for corrupting the young. In Judaism the opposite is the case. It is a religious duty to teach our children to ask questions. That is how they grow.

Isadore Rabi, winner of a Nobel Prize in physics, was once asked why he became a scientist. He replied, "My mother made me a scientist without ever knowing it. Every other child would come back from school and be asked, ‘What did you learn today?’ But my mother used to ask: ‘Izzy, did you ask a good question today?’ That made the difference. Asking good questions made me a scientist."²¹

If one asks most people actively involved in either mainstream Judaism (in its various sects) or mainstream Christianity (in its various denominations) about religious beliefs or doctrines, and how they compare or contrast, there will invariably be heard a clear tendency to place persons (stereotyping them) or their belief systems into one of the two boxes of Judaism or Christianity. It does not occur to most that there is a third box, if you will. That box is the box of truth, illustrated on the cover of this book by the Torah scroll. It is the box that contains the whole truth of Elohim’s Written Word, and none of man’s profane and idolatrous notions that have infiltrated the other two boxes.

This book is largely centered about that third box of Truth, known as Torah (i.e., the written Torah, the foundation for the whole of the Bible), and how to rediscover its wonderful, burden-lifting, life-giving teaching and instruction in Elohim’s ways. It is for all who believe in the Elohim of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and for all who are seeking the one truthful model for life. The written Torah was the foundation for both Judaism and first century Christianity, long before propagation of man’s divisiveness was allowed to permeate each, and to create the chasm between them we see today.

Think for a moment. Contrast the nature of mankind with the nature of the Elohim of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (the Elohim of the Bible). Ask yourself why the Creator of the universe and all that is in it would cause His Word to be penned, wrought with contradiction, confusion, and intending that only portions be followed. This hardly seems plausible (see Psalm 18:30; Prov. 30:5), particularly when considering it would be completely outside of Elohim’s divine, loving, and just character to initiate such a thing. Conversely, mankind historically has proven himself to be contradictory, unloving and unjust, unworthy of trust, and having instead a propensity for self-serving, shortsighted motives.

The Truth of Elohim’s Written Word provides the catalyst by which the barriers man has built over the centuries will be torn down, bringing back to the source two faith systems into the one Elohim intended for man to follow.²² Of course it is the Spirit of Elohim that will ultimately be the operative for man’s realization of the source of truth. Our Creator has made the provision for fullness of life and life eternal, expressed in the whole council of His Written Word. It is up to us as individuals to appropriate that provision, embracing it and living it out for others to observe.

Ultimately, truth is found in the one reliable source, and through study of His Written Word, the Torah of Elohim—foundation of the Scriptures and the whole of the Bible. We see where the Bereans of Acts 17:11 were openly willing to hear the teachings of Paul and Silas, but "searched the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so." Their model was the Word of God. It was evident they had made the paradigm shift from the various teachings of man-made religious doctrines, were willing to hear Paul, but wanted also to validate his teachings against the one reliable source of truth—Torah.

As with the Bereans, our paradigm must be molded from scriptural truth. We must seek to discover and discern the author’s intended meaning from the writings inspired by Elohim. We must come to the realization that the true meaning of all passages of Scripture has already been determined by the author. Those meanings are to be discerned by the reader and student of the Word. Our goal must be exegesis (deriving meaning from the text), not eisegesis (superimposing meaning onto the text),²³ the latter of which corrupts the intended meaning. Scripture must be used as the primary source for interpreting Scripture. If we find that our paradigm conflicts with Scripture, then we must modify our paradigm to conform with the Elohim of the Universe, author of the Bible and molder of our faith—just as Paul and Peter made a paradigm shift based upon that most reliable source. Lest we not forget, the Elohim of the Universe is wiser than any man.

What we have in the biblical record, as originally penned, is something monumentally substantial. Every fact and truth it contains only serves to prove its perfection. No artifact that has ever been unearthed, or no manuscript that has ever been discovered, has been anything but further evidence of biblical truth. Only man’s interpretation of these things has stood against Elohim’s Written Word, because it is only his thoughts and paradigms that have opposed, corrupted, and maligned it. In fact, it is through mankind, in all his thoughts and imperfections, that Elohim’s Written Word has suffered from poor custodianship down through the ages. But the Creator’s hand has nevertheless sustained it—for all who will seek out its truths.

This is eloquently expressed by the nineteenth-century biblical scholar, E. W. Bullinger, as quoted from one of his monumental books, Number in Scripture, Its Supernatural Design and Spiritual Significance:²⁴

Like a beautiful stained glass window which has suffered from accident, or fire or siege, and which man has endeavored to restore; we can see how exquisiteare its colors and patterns; how perfect it once was. Here and there is a tiny piece wanting, or misplaced. But it does not hinder us from discerning the perfection of the original geometrical figure, or from admiring the delicacy of the features of the figure portrayed. The window is indeed marred. And one man has done much to repair the injury caused by the negligence of another. We can see the defect of the repairs; but we can see also that the design was originally perfect, and we can praise and admire the wisdom of the designer.

So it is with the Word of God. Nothing can hide the perfection displayed in its design. Man has been false to his trust. He has not preserved it with the faithfulness which should ever characterize a steward. But because man has been unfaithful, we are not going to question the faithfulness of God! Because man has not properly cared for this precious gift of God, we are not going to question the perfection of that gift! But this is what man has done, and is doing: he is charging upon God the result of his own sin, neglect, and folly! God has given man this "bread of life," and he is analyzing it instead of eating it! God has given man His Word, and he is criticizing it instead of believing it! This is the "wisdom" of man "up to date." This is the highest flight of his Wisdom—"higher criticism"! Truly "the world by wisdom knew not God (1 Cor. 1:21)." It never did and never will. Human wisdom ever leads from God. It is so with nineteenth century wisdom! It may seem very clever, very daring, very wise, for man to criticize the Word of God, but it is still true, as it is written (1 Cor. 3:19),

The wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.

Then away with man’s wisdom! We do not want it. What we want is God’s truth, and if man’s science does not agree with God’s book, then so much the worse for his science.

We will come to God’s Word as those who are foolish in the eyes of the world, because we desire to be made wise unto salvation (2 Tim. 3:15); and because we remember the word of the Lord Jesus, how He said, "Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures (Mat. 22:29)."

CHAPTER 1

Relationship vs. Religion

"Cursed is the man who trusts in man And makes flesh his strength, Whose heart departs from the Lord."

(Jeremiah 17:5)

F rom ancient times mankind has been involved in religious pursuits, rather than responding to the Creator’s overtures for relationship through obedience to the commandments. Man has " substituted religious affiliation for a genuine relationship with God. " ²⁵

The terms religion or religious are seldom used in the Apostolic Scriptures, and not found in the Scriptures. Either term can take on a positive or negative connotation depending on the context in which it is used. This is best illustrated by a few examples.

From James 1:26–27 we read,

If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit the orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. (Emphasis added)

Here we see James using the term religion in the negative sense in verse 26; and in the positive sense in verse 27. In the Greek the two terms are threskeia (religion) and threskos (religious), Strong’s Nos. 2356 and 2357, respectively, and meaning religious worship, especially external ceremonies or religious discipline; and worshiping or fearing God and trembling before Him, respectively.

From Colossians 2:23 we read,

These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh (i.e., self-imposed religion is of no value for eternity). (Emphasis added)

Here we see the Apostle Paul referring to the commandments and doctrines of men from verses 20–22, in the negative sense. In the Greek the term is ethelothreskia, Strong’s No. 1479, meaning self-willed, self-imposed, and arbitrary worship that one prescribes and devises for himself. In effect it is unwarranted piety, said of the misdirected zeal and practice of ascetics.

Distilled down to its core elements, religion is defined herein as man pursuing god (any god of his own choosing) using his own methods and devices, largely ignoring biblical mandates. The Bible is clear that man’s relationship to his creator is through successively building covenants, one upon another.²⁶ The reader is referred to Chapter 7 for the critically important concepts embedded in the biblical covenants. A covenant, by its very nature, normally entails responsibilities on the part of both parties to the covenant.²⁷

Out of covenant faithfulness comes intimate relationship as designed by Elohim, under His terms not man’s. Therefore, the covenant relationship designed and desired by Elohim with His created mankind is defined as Elohim pursuing man on the terms of His commandments.²⁸ Man, in obedience thereto, was to represent Elohim’s ways (i.e., live out or exhibit the benefits of covenant faithfulness) before his fellow man who were not/are not in covenant relationship with Elohim. True repentance on the part of man results in a redemptive response from Elohim, opening the door for intimate relationship.

Elohim has never defaulted on His promises to mankind under the covenants. Conversely, mankind throughout history has repeatedly ignored and knowingly defaulted on his obedience under the covenants.²⁹ Mankind, having chosen to do things his own way, has suffered greatly throughout the centuries, and in accord with the consequences Elohim clearly enumerated in His Word, the Bible.³⁰ Thus, mankind for the most part has chosen the curses of covenant unfaithfulness (i.e., religion), rather than the blessings of covenant faithfulness (i.e., relationship).

What has evolved from man’s unfaithfulness to the covenants is an elaborate system of man’s laws, doctrines, and theologies. Most of these have become either a mix (syncretism) of biblical directives and man’s errant teachings and interpretations, or wholly man’s own misguided rulings lorded over his fellow man.³¹ The leadership of both Judaism and Christianity historically fell prey to these errors, and stand guilty of propagating them forward to the present day. However, each has erred in differing aspects, with the one exception in common of not heeding all the scriptural directives.

To understand the errors of Judaism and Christianity requires a study of both history and the Bible in its entirety. The reader is referred to Chapter Four for an overview historically, and to additionally listed sources in the Bibliography for more in-depth accounts of what has occurred historically to cause these two faiths to deviate from their common foundation—the Torah.

Principal among the errors of Judaism were (1) failure to heed the admonitions of the prophets;³² (2) to seek earthly kings;³³ (3) to place the oral law on par with, or above, the Written Law (Torah);³⁴ (4) failure to recognize the types and shadows of Messiah embedded in their own Scriptures (the Tanakh),³⁵ and thus missing who Yeshua (later called Jesus) was as He challenged the scribes and Pharisees over their man-made laws;³⁶ and (5) failure to make the distinction between the Greco-Roman Jesus of the fourth century AD (via Constantine the Great)³⁷ and the scripturally and historically accurate true Messiah Yeshua of the first century AD.³⁸

Principal among the errors of Christianity have been (1) separating itself from its Hebraic roots—the roots of scriptural³⁹ authority, and the basis for truths that Yeshua (later called Jesus) taught His disciples and followers in opposition to the Pharisaic laws—largely to avoid persecutions leveled against those identified as practicing Judaism; (2) deviation from scriptural principles and covenantal obedience, substituting instead man’s doctrines and theologies based on a partial read,⁴⁰ and thus understanding, of the whole Bible, birthing a host of errant theologies, principle among them allowing "Replacement Theology⁴¹ to come into being and spread throughout the whole of Christianity; (3) allowing Dispensationalism"⁴² to trump covenantal building blocks; (4) promulgating grace⁴³ over, or to the exclusion of, covenantal obedience; (5) preaching prosperity and numbers (of church attendance) over truth and responsibility to the biblical directives; and (6) allowing the big-business, denominational⁴⁴ corporate mentality to creep in and replace shepherding the flock in spirit and in truth (John 4:23–24).

"For the shepherds have become dull hearted, and have not sought the Lord; therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered." (Jeremiah 10:21)

Ultimately, the manifestation of religion has been seen as man fashioning Elohim into his own image. Indeed, religions are the invention of men. Elohim does not want us to become affiliated with a religion. He desires that you and I become a new creation through intimate relationship with Him. There is a significant difference between the two.

The reader is directed to Chapters 6 through 10 for a more in-depth background on the above noted errors, and to Chapter 9 specifically for a discussion of nonscripturally based theologies, including the two noted above.

For centuries upon centuries man has been caught up in, and subjected himself to, the three-party religious systems of mankind’s own making. A classic point of entry for this is illustrated for us in the account at the foot of Mt. Sinai, where the children of Israel opted to place Moses between themselves and Elohim.

Granted, Moses was indeed appointed by Elohim to lead the children of Israel out of Egypt and to the Promised Land. He became the mediator for the Children of Israel, between man and their Elohim. Moses, in this role, became a type of Messiah. However, if we look carefully at Exodus 20:18–19, we see where the children of Israel chose to place someone (a man) between themselves and Elohim as a third party go-between in terms of communication directly with their Creator Elohim. The verses read as follows:

Then they [the children of Israel] said to Moses, "You speak with us, and we will hear; but let not God speak with us, lest we die." (Emphasis added)

Moses recounts this event to the children of Israel in Deuteronomy 5, where he reviews the Ten Commandments. Excerpting from this chapter, we read in verses 5, and 22–27, the following:

I [Moses] stood between the LORD and you [children of Israel] at the time, to declare to you the word of the LORD; for you were afraid because of the fire, and you did not go up the mountain … These words [ten commandments] the LORD spoke to all your assembly, in the mountain from the midst of the fire, the cloud, and the thick darkness, with a loud voice; and He added no more. And He wrote them on two tablets of stone and gave them to me. So it was, when you heard the voice from the midst of the darkness, while the mountain was burning with fire, that you came near to me, all the heads of your tribes and your elders. And you said: "Surely the LORD our God has shown us His glory and His greatness, and we have heard His voice from the midst of the fire. We have seen this day that God speaks with man; yet he still lives. Now therefore, why should we die? For this great fire will consume us; if we hear the voice of the LORD our God anymore, then we shall die. For who is there of all flesh who has heard the voice of the living God speaking from the midst of the fire, as we have, and lived? You [Moses]go near and hear all that the LORD our God may say, and tell us all that the LORD our God says to you, and we will hear and do it." (Emphasis added)

This classic historical event set the stage for plunging mankind headlong into