MBM-UK - Weekly studies

Our study this week examines how the prepartion for the Giving of the Torah and the timeline of the events reveal the intention of Adonai's restoration of relationship with mankind through His people Israel and for the rest of humanity through Yeshua His Messiah. We discuss the significance of the third month/third day metaphor in chapter 19 followed by the examination of the first of the 10 words and how they are part of the group of mitzvot on the 1st tablet.

This week we begin the study of the Torah portion called Yitro which includes the Giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai. We discuss how chapter 18 which begins with the reunting of Moses with his father-in-law appears to out of chronological order of events, but that the essential nature of the testimony of Yitro reflects the practical witness of the Gentiles who by faith declare the Sovereignty of the Eternal One who is Adonai the GOD of Abraham, Isaac and Israel.

This week we conclude the portion named Beshelach.In our review of the portion we discuss the events that it contains and what is the roadmap that is being set out as an example to us regarding the nature of salvation and redemption.We discuss how our purpose is to glorify Adonai in the framework of the Shabbat and its impact on our lives both spiritually and physically as a people set apart by Adonai who have been allowed to experience the benefit of the covenant He made with the forefathers.

This week we discuss the provison of the manna and the teaching of the importance of the Sabbath.What is the most important aspect of the manna?Its provision is held as a memorial in the Ark, but the Sabbath? That is an eternal covenant.We discuss how not keeping the Sabbath impacts the believing community, both Jewish and Gentile, when the Sabbath is not adhered to and how it is a key part to understanding it as the part of the glue that binds us to Adonai and His Messiah Yeshua.

As we return to our discussions after our break, we continue by looking at the Song of Moses.What is it and how is it significant to us today?Clearly it has future implications as it is mentioned in the book of Revelation and it referred to frequently in both the Psalms and the Siddur (the daily prayers), as well as being recounted each year at Passover. We look at how the song is set out on a Torah scroll and the significance of the parts of the song as they trace the path of the Israelite tribes through the Red Sea and give us hope in the world we live in today as it pertains to the Messianic Redemption to come.

In our study this week we look at the time between Pesach and the crossing of the Red Sea in the context of Psalm 67 which is read each day during the Counting of the Omer.We discuss how the Exodus from Egypt is not just an historical moment in the history of Israel, but how it heralds the redemption that Adonai brings across the whole earth and that the thirst for true justice and equity, freedom from oppression and righteous judgment will be acheived not by force of arms and the warring nations, but by the mercy of Adonai through Messiah Yeshua.We also discuss how this is a template of how we are to live each day as we recognise that our fears and past experiences should not be the main influence of how we live our lives today, but that the transformative power of Adonai's word and the power of the death and resurrection of Messiah Yeshua lead us as we turn away from the misinformed actions of lawlessness that we witness through social media and "influencers".

This week we discuss the final part of parsha Bo which deals specifically with the sanctification of the firstborn.We look at how this comes immediately after the night of Passover but before the Red Sea crossing. We also discover how the redemption of the firstborn donkey by the lamb connects to the death and resurrection of Messiah Yeshua and the redemption of all mankind.We discover the connection between the hebrew words for womb, compassion and donkey, and how important they are to our understanding of the Passover story at the time of the Exodus and the time of the crucifixion and resurrection of Messiah Yeshua.

This week we discuss the final plague, the Death of the Firstborn.We look closely at the words used by Adonai regarding the final words of Pharaoh and how they imply the complete end to the relationship between Egypt and Israel to prepare the way for their arrival at Mount Sinai and establishing a further relationship with the Children of Israel developing beyond the covenant of circumcision through the Giving of the TorahWe also discuss how the commandments concerning Passover and how Paul in Colossians explains how those who are outside of the people of Israel are able to join with the remembrance of the feast to celebrate their freedom from slavery based on the instructions of Exodus 12 and the work of Messiah Yeshua through His death and resurrection at Passover

This week we continue to look at the plagues preceding the Exodus, looking at the last three, Hail, Locusts and Darkness, prior to the Death of the Firstborn.We discuss Hail in particular as an instrument of Adonai's judgment and how it is applied from Creation, through Job, the Exodus and into the book of Revelation. We look at the distinction Adonai makes between those who heed the instructions of Moses and those who do not and between the Children of Israel in Goshen, and the residents of Egypt.We discuss the connection with Shabbat and how Adonai uses the plagues as a tool for repentance prior to judgment.

In this study we begin to look at the plagues and challenges set down before the Pharaoh of Egypt by Adonai through His envoy's Moses and AaronWe look at the controversial expression of how Adonai "hardens" the heart of Pharaoh. We also discuss the importance of the differentiation between faith in Adonai compared to the desire to see signs and wonders to prove who god is.

This week we continue to look at the plagues of Egypt and how they are structured.We discuss how the plagues deal with the three key aspects addressing the attitude of the Egyptians toward the land and its residents.These are lessons that extend to us today in our present time and the future attitudes toward Adonai and the environment that we have been given stewardship over.

In this week's study we begin to look at the build up to the coming plagues of Egypt.At the heart of the redemption and rescue of Israel is the fulfilling of the convenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and the establishing of GOD's name as the covenant keeping GOD.We discuss how this parallels our place in history today as we await the coming of Messiah and the covenant established at Passover at the Passover seder in the gospels.We look at the characteristics reflected in the names of GOD and what that means to us and the whole of creation.

This week we conclude the portion Shemot. We discuss the significance of the book of Shemot as the establishing of the Name of GOD through the Children of Israel in the world and how the essence of GOD's name establishes His presence as the Creator of the Universe, the name of His Son as mentioned in Proverbs 30 and the connection to the life and ministry of Yeshua as set out in the gospels.

This week we look at the calling of Moses. We discuss the Burning Bush and how the redemption of the children of Israel shows the plan of redemption for all men from the Garden of Eden to the coming of Messiah and the Messianic Kingdom. We look at why Adonai uses this moment in time and in particular Moses as the template for redemption and the Torah as the instruction manual that is also the blueprint for life.

As this is the first study of the Gregorian year, we look at the beginning of the book of Exodus and discuss how this account connects to the Garden of Eden.We consider how Adonai through the descendants of Adam and Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, leading to Yeshua brings into reality a redemptive program that is far more than a religious practice.We touch on how the relevance of the Exodus account reaches beyond the first Passover and can impact us on a daily basis as we seek to understand what true freedom is and our place within the plan of the Creator.

As we begin our study in Exodus/Shemot, we look at what has brought the Children of Israel to the point that the nation of Egypt has begun to despise and fear them.We talk about the characteristics that are carried forward from when they first arrived under the auhority of Joseph and how their assimialtion into Egyptian society brings about the ire of the new Pharaoh and his people.We look at how Moshe, as a member of the tribe of Levi, when acting in his own strength and power only reinforces the nature of his forefather and the final words of Jacob, and that when he is named as Moshe begins to fulfill his destiny as the one who draws those he encounters out of the waters of strife.We briefly discuss how these two natures embody the nature of Torah and whether it is used to condemn or bring life.

The week concludes our study in Genesis.We look at the aspect of what constitutes a blessing and specifcally how are Jacob's words to his sons blessings when some of the words spoken appear to be negative.

This discussion focuses on the distribution of food by Joseph and the comparison and contrast of the chapter in Revelation that speaks of the mark of the beast.We also discuss the blessings that are conveyed upon Ephraim and Manasseh and the importance of the burial of Rachel in Ephrathah and how this has implications upon the gentiles who join themselves to the Master through faith and rejecting the idols of the nations.

This week is a further exploration into the restoration of relationship between Joseph and Israel. We look at the role of Goshen the place of "drawing near" and how it connects with Revelation 7 as the forerunner to the restoration of Israel with Messiah Yeshua, preserving the 12 tribes from the continuing famine across the world and saving the mixed-multitudes who come to Joseph.

In the discussion this week, we conclude chapter 44 where we see the final test set by Joseph to establish whether his brothers have changed or whether they remain the same people as before when they sent Joseph into exile.We discuss how the tests reflect the way the difference between false piety and humility is exposed through our encounters with "nachash", and how the Master, Yeshua experienced the same attitudes as he sought to understand and reveal the hearts of his own people.The review of this passage is essential to understanding how the next section, Vayigash, (and he drew near) prefigures the restoration of the people of Israel and the reunification and repair of their relationship with Messiah Yeshua, prefigured by Joseph.

This week we look at the second visit of the sons of Jacob to Egypt to collect grain. We discuss why Joseph chose Simeon to remain imprisoned when the brothers returned home and the hidden message behind the return of the money and how Gentile believers are to communicate a message of assurance and comfort to the Jewish people today, taking the Joseph story as our example.

The discussion this week asks the question of the Joseph narrative as to the purpose of Adonai's intention with all of the events that we see in Joseph's story.With hindsight we understand the typology of the chosen one, but by placing ourselves in the narrative at the moment it is happening, this gives us potential for insight and to ask how events may have been perceived by the characters and why they act and speak in the manner they do. We also discuss the prohetic implications regarding Israel, Gentiles and the future events that will unfold.

This week we look specifically at the back story of Joseph and Asenath. Although not a biblical text the story gives some insight into the marriage between Egyptian Asenath and the Hebrew Joseph, looking at the need for Asenath to set aside the foreign idols that she worships in order to repent and be restored to the Most High God before being married to Joseph.This is particularly relevant as we get closer to the season of the Autumn Moedim and the Moed of Rosh Hashanah which is traditionally associated with the potential for the beginning of the Messianic reign of Messiah ben David and the return for his bride.  It is also the day that Pharoah releases Joseph, his restoration and promotion to the viceroy of Egypt leading ultimately to the restoration of the family of Israel and their rescue from the famine in the world.

This week we discuss the time of Joseph in prison and the interpretation of the dreams of the imprisoned chamberlains.We look at the perspective of this time through Psalm 105 and the impact of the life of Joseph as the saviour of Israel and the comparison of the sufferings with Messiah ben Joseph.

This week we return to the story of Joseph and his arrival as the slave of Potiphar. We look at how this is the first time that Adonai speaks into the life of Egypt by blessing his household through Joseph. We also speak about some of the hidden connections of Joseph and Yeshua and Joseph's conduct when falsely accused.

In our study this week, we discuss the account of Judah and Tamar. We look at why it appears where it does and how it impacts the future of the Messianic kingdom, Israel and Christianity. We also discuss how redemption comes from the most unlikely places.

This week we continue our discussion about the introduction of Joseph. We discuss perception and how it influences our understanding of our circumstances and how Adonai sees all.

This week's study begins the story of Joseph and his role as the redeemer of Israel. We discuss the parallels with Yeshua and how important it is to understand the importance of Joseph as a key character in the whole biblical narrative rather than the popular characterisation that we have grown used to.

This week we look at the violation of Dinah and the destruction of the men of shchem by Levi and Simeon. We discuss the complexities of the account morally and ethically and how some of the events recorded have paralllels with the Oct 7th attacks and the continuing conflict.

In the second part of our study we look specifically at the verses where Jacob wrestles with the messenger and how that impacts what we experience and how it shapes us if we perservere in the struglle to become the people we are meant to be.

We begin the new portion Vayishlach which marks the beginning of the next phase of Jacob's journey. We discuss the symbolic importance of the relationship between Jacob and Esau and how the characteristics of both the brothers is reflected today in the events we seeing unfolding. We also discuss how we have within ourselves Jacob and Esau nature's which war against each other.

Continuing our study, we discuss the departure of Jacob from Laban. We discuss how stealing is connected with idolatry and how atheism is a form of self-worship.

This week we look at the continuing expansion of Jacob's family. We begin with the foundation of 12 and how this number is not only relevant to the number of sons that Jacob has but how it permeates history, nature and the universe. We discuss technologies of the time, how that applies to our world today, and how the will of GOD supercedes all of the methods that we might use to advance our own fortunes through our knowledge and understanding.

This week we look at the change in Jacob after his dream about the ladder and the covenant GOD makes with him. We discuss the importance of the number 12 and how this is the point where the fruition of the previous covenant promises begin to come to life. We also touch on the principle that covenant promises don't necessarily mean an easy ride in life, but that their fulfillment is based on the giver more than the receiver.

This week we begin the Torah portion Vayetze - "And he departed". Our discussion looks at the dream of Jacob and the ladder which is referred to in John's gospel. We look at the contrast of departing and leaving and how that informs the way we walk toward the challenges and adventures before us despite what may have brought us to the place of choosing.

This week's study is a continuation of the chapter that speaks of the blessings over Jacob and Esau. We look at the nature of the blessings and how they are fulfilled. We also discuss the character of Esau and the connection with the goats of Yom Kippur and the sheep and goat judgment of Matthew 25 and Revelation 20

This weeks discussion is recorded at our Rosh Chodesh service. The discussion looks at some of the questions around what seems a very negative and controversial passage. Part of the discussion included a video from the teaching of Aleph Beta - here is the link: https://alephbeta.org/podcasts/book-like-no-otherGenesis 27 is not all it seems and the discussions reflect this.

This week we discuss Isaac and the famine during his time in Gerar, the land of the Philistines. We continue to show how he, as the first part of the covenant made between Abraham and HaShem also encounters hostility and rejection in the land of the Philistines during the time of famine even though he brings blessing thorugh the provision of water and food. We also discuss how the land dispute in the land today described as Palestine is no different from the sort of dispute seen in Chapter 26 and how jealously and envy can cause a loss of blessing from GOD by rejecting the vehicle of His covenant blessings.

In this study we look at the final part of Chayei Sarah and the beginning of Toldot (the life of sarah and Generations). We see how the women of this era feature as arbiters of the covenant promises, and as vessels of the continuation of the promises made by GOD to ensure the lineage of Abraham to Messiah and how that also features for the physical descendants of Abraham Isaac and Jacob, as well as the spiritual descendants who are shaped through faith in Messiah Yeshua and the teaching of Tanakh led by the Ruach Hakodesh.

This episode was recorded at the monthly Rosh Chodesh gathering and contains elements of the Shabbat Service. Our discussion covers a number of topics relating to the work of Eliezer, the nature of the work of the servant in accordance with the will of the master and obedience.

This week we begin the new parsha Chayei Sarah and we discuss the importance of Abraham's choice of the Cave of Machpelah and how Abraham and Sarah are the template of faith that we are to set as an example for our daily lives.

This week we look at the pivotal event in the scritpures; The Binding of Isaac. We discuss, following on from last week, how this moment in biblical history links directly to the sacrifice of Yeshua as the other part of the near-eastern covenant exchange of sons, made in Genesis 15. We look at how all the biblical festivals are hinted at in the passage and some of the lessons that we might learn about faithfulness and obedience in the face of seeming tragedy.

This week we look at the three events in the passage and how they interlink. We also discuss the implications of how they link to Paul in the book of Galatians and the importance of the near eastern covenant regarding the exchange of sons. We also see how this is a continuation on the theme of "seeing" in Parsha Vayera.

This discussion was recorded as part of the group Rosh Chodesh meeting. We discuss the protection of Sarah, the compassion of GOD and the prayer of the prophet in Abraham and Yeshua as they heal and bring life to the those they encounter.

In the study this week we look at Lot and his origin story to see how it applies to us now and the similarities between him and Abraham. We also discuss what the account of Sodom and Gomorrah teaches us today and in the future.

Our study this week features the first encounter of Abraham and Sarah in their new roles as custodians of the new covenant. We discuss how the announcement of Isaac as the archetype of this covenant along with Abraham and Sarah echo throughout history and into our future, showing how GOD has and will bring about further redemption in the world through Messiah and the continuing fulfillment of the covenant made with Abraham.We also discuss the role of intercession by the believing community on behalf of the people we know, not just believers, but all humanity in accordance with the character and nature of GOD as shown in the 13 Attributes of Mercy set out in Exodus 33.

This week we look at the ratifying of the covenant, and the instruction of circumcision.We discuss the impact of this upon Gentile believers and its connection to the crucifixion of Yeshua. We also discuss the change of name for Abraham and Sarah and whether uncircumcised Gentiles are allowed to celebrate Passover who are followers of Yeshua as Messiah outside of the existing traditional Jewish framework.

Our discussion this week looks at Hagar and the circumstances of her relationship with Abram and Sarai.We consider the idea of how we can turn covenant promises from GOD into commandments that we enact ourselves while not fully considering the outcome of our actions.

This week's study looks at the Covenant made with Abram concernng the Land. Even today this still stands and awaits its completion. We also discuss why Abram is chosen and what is the catalyst of that choice and the importance of Abram as an example to us stated in Romans 4

This week we discuss the parsha Lech Lecha. This is a follow on from our Rosh Chodesh discussions. We continue to look at Abraham as the person that Adonai chooses to not only communicate the message of salvation and covenant, but also how Abraham chooses Adonai over the corrupt systems of the world at that time which were orientated toward idolatry and tyranny.