Category Archives: Jesus Christ / Yeshua

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Justice / Judgment, Protector / Deliverer, Revelation

Judgment Falls, But God Secures His Own (Revelation 6-7)

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When everything in the world is shaken, what determines whether you will stand?

Key Verse:
“For the great day of their wrath has come, and who is able to stand?” —Revelation 6:17 NASB

Background Context:
In Revelation 6–7, the opening of the seals reveals the unfolding of God’s judgment upon the earth. The imagery is intense—war, famine, death, and cosmic disturbance—culminating in a sobering question: who can stand before the wrath of God?

Before continuing the judgments, Revelation 7 provides a pause. In that pause, God reveals an essential truth: He not only judges, but He also secures and preserves those who belong to Him.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 6-7

Reflection on Revelation 6–7:
Revelation 6 makes it clear that God’s judgment is real, powerful, and unavoidable. The seals reveal a progression of events that shake every form of earthly stability. Power, wealth, status, and position offer no protection. Even kings and mighty men recognize that they cannot escape what is coming.

This leads to the defining question: who can stand?

Revelation 7 answers that question—not by removing judgment, but by revealing God’s provision within it.

Before the winds of destruction are released, they are held back. God delays the next phase of judgment for a specific purpose: to seal His servants. This sealing represents His authority, ownership, and protection. Those who belong to Him are not overlooked or forgotten. They are marked as His.

This is an important truth—God’s judgment is never reckless. It is measured, purposeful, and always aligned with His covenant and promises.

The sealing of the 144,000 from Israel reminds us that God remains faithful to His people. His promises do not fail, even across generations and in the midst of global upheaval.

Then the vision expands.

John sees a great multitude that no one can count, from every nation, tribe, people, and language. This is a powerful picture of God’s redemptive plan fulfilled beyond any single nation. Salvation extends to all who belong to Him.

These believers have come through great tribulation. They are not spared from hardship—but they are sustained through it. Their robes are made white in the blood of the Lamb, showing that their victory is not earned, but given through Yeshua.

The outcome is not fear—it is worship.

They stand before the throne, serving God continually. His presence covers them. The Lamb, who was once slain, now becomes their Shepherd—guiding, providing, and protecting them.

The promises given are deeply personal:

  • No more hunger
  • No more thirst
  • No more suffering from the elements
  • God Himself wipes away every tear

This is the final answer to the question: who can stand?

Not those who rely on the world.
Not those who trust in their own strength.
But those who belong to God, are sealed by Him, and remain faithful to Him.

Revelation 6–7 reveals both sides of God’s nature—His justice and His mercy. Judgment is certain, but so is His protection for those who are His.

This calls us to examine our own lives. Are we aligned with Him? Are we trusting in Him? Are we living in a way that reflects that we belong to Him?

Because in the end, that is what determines whether we will stand.

Application:

  • Examine where your security truly lies—in the world or in God.
  • Remember that God knows and seals those who belong to Him.
  • Remain faithful through hardship, trusting God’s purpose and protection.
  • Rejoice that salvation is available to people from every nation.
  • Live with eternal perspective, focusing on standing before God rather than pleasing the world.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You that You are both just and merciful. Help me to trust in You as my security and not in the things of this world. Strengthen my faith so that I remain steadfast no matter what comes. Seal my heart fully as Yours, and lead me to live in obedience and trust. Thank You for the hope of standing before You in victory through Yeshua. In His name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Compassionate, Grace / Forgiveness, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind, Protector / Deliverer, Submitted / Servant, Traditions / Holidays

Passover and Our Path to Salvation Through Yeshua

As we draw near to the season of Passover and Unleavened Bread, we’re reminded of the profound significance these celebrations hold in our journey of faith. They’re not merely historical observances but pivotal events that invite us to reflect on the sacrifice of Yeshua (Jesus) for our sins and the remarkable gift of salvation available to us through Him. This season provides a unique lens through which to view the message of the cross—a message that is both beautifully simple for a child to grasp and infinitely rich for scholars to explore.

The Gospel according to John and the teachings of Paul provide foundational insights into the nature of belief and the essence of the gospel message. John 3:16-21 eloquently expresses God’s immense love for humanity, a love so great that it led to the ultimate sacrifice—sending His only Son to save us, not to condemn us but to offer eternal life through belief in Him.

However, understanding “belief” in its biblical context requires more than acknowledging Yeshua’s existence or His role in history. True belief necessitates a submission to Yeshua as Lord, evidenced by a life increasingly reflective of His character and teachings. It’s a belief that transforms, impacting not just our thoughts but our actions and priorities (James 2:14-20).

Sin, our inherent separation from God, demands a price we’re unable to pay. Yet, through God’s grace and mercy, Yeshua paid that price on our behalf. He lived a sinless life, took on our sins, and overcame death, offering us a path to reconciliation with God. Acknowledging this gift involves repentance—a genuine turning away from sin—and embracing Yeshua as the Lord of our lives (Romans 3:23, Matthew 5:21-48).

The call to salvation is a call to transformation. It’s not merely about attending church or identifying as a Christian but about a deep, personal submission to God. This journey begins with accepting Yeshua’s lordship, continues with living out our faith through our actions, and requires us to share this truth with the world (Matthew 5:21-48).

For those ready to take this step, to move from acknowledging Yeshua academically to surrendering to Him heart and soul, consider this prayer:

Heavenly Father, in the name of Yeshua, I confess my sins and seek Your forgiveness. I believe Yeshua died for me and rose again, and I accept Him as my Lord and Savior. Guide me to turn from my sinful ways and to live in a manner that honors You. Help me to boldly declare my faith and to find fellowship with those who genuinely seek You. Thank you for the gift of salvation and the promise of eternal life. Amen.

This decision marks the beginning of a lifelong journey—a journey of growing closer to God, understanding His Word, and living out His teachings. It’s a path marked by learning, love, and an unwavering commitment to follow Yeshua.

As we observe Passover, let’s embrace the full depth of its connection to the message of the cross. Let’s allow it to deepen our understanding of God’s love, Yeshua’s sacrifice, and the transformative power of embracing salvation through faith in Him.

For those seeking to explore this path further, we invite you to take the next step by exploring our teachings on Celebrating God’s Holy Days (Moedim). Let this Passover be a time of reflection, renewal, and rejoicing in the salvation Yeshua offers.

May this season inspire us all to reflect deeply on our response to Yeshua’s call and to live out the true meaning of belief in every aspect of our lives.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Is the Old Testament Relevant Today?, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Traditions / Holidays

Embrace Passover: Rediscover Our Roots and Remember Christ’s Sacrifice

In a world where traditions often overshadow biblical instructions, it’s crucial to remember the significance of Passover, a festival that not only commemorates God’s deliverance of His people from bondage in Egypt but also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, our Passover Lamb. While modern Christianity has drifted towards celebrating Easter, with its blend of pagan traditions, it’s essential to revisit the roots of our faith and the holy days God explicitly commands us to observe.

God’s Persistent Instruction

Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread are highlighted repeatedly in Scripture (Exodus 12:42-51, Exodus 13:1-16, Exodus 23; Leviticus 23) as essential commemorations of God’s mighty hand freeing His people. This repetition isn’t merely for emphasis but a call to remember and celebrate God’s acts of salvation throughout generations. The directive to share these stories with our children (Exodus 13:8, 14-16) ensures that the knowledge of God’s power and love is passed down, keeping the faith alive through every generation.

The Christian Connection

For Christians, Passover holds additional meaning. Jesus, our Messiah, fulfilled the role of the Passover lamb, sacrificing Himself to free us from the bondage of sin. The elements of the Passover meal—especially the unleavened bread—take on profound significance in light of Christ’s death and resurrection. By celebrating Passover, we acknowledge the continuity of God’s salvation plan from the Exodus to the Cross and beyond.

The Challenge of Tradition

Choosing to celebrate Passover in a Christian context may seem daunting, especially when faced with longstanding traditions and the potential for misunderstanding or conflict. Yet, Jesus Himself warned that following Him might set us at odds with familiar customs and even our own families (Matthew 10:32-39). The decision to embrace Passover is a choice to prioritize God’s instructions over man-made traditions, seeking closer alignment with His desires for our lives.

A New Way to Celebrate

Celebrating Passover as believers in Christ doesn’t require adherence to all the ancient rituals but an open heart to remember and rejoice in God’s deliverance and Christ’s sacrifice. It offers a unique opportunity to deepen our understanding of the biblical narrative and experience a richer, more meaningful connection to the story of our faith.

An Invitation to Rediscovery

If the idea of celebrating Passover feels new or unfamiliar, you’re not alone. Many Christians are rediscovering the richness of God’s holy days and finding joy in aligning their celebrations with Scripture. It’s a journey of faith, exploration, and deepening love for our Creator and Redeemer.

Prayer for Guidance and Joy in Celebration

Father, lead us back to the roots of our faith, to the holy days You have set apart for us. Help us to see the beauty and depth of celebrating Passover, recognizing Jesus as our Passover Lamb. Give us the courage to step away from traditions that do not honor You and embrace those that do. May our celebrations bring us closer to You, filled with joy, understanding, and gratitude for all You have done. In Jesus’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Marriage, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Psalms, Self Control, Submitted / Servant

The Bride and the King (Psalm 45)

What does it mean to belong to a King whose throne is eternal?

Key Verse:
“Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; a scepter of uprightness is the scepter of Your kingdom.” —Psalm 45:6 NASB

Background Context:
Psalm 45 is labeled a wedding song, likely composed for a royal marriage in Israel’s history. Yet as the psalm unfolds, the language exceeds any merely human king. The king is described in exalted, even divine terms. The New Testament later applies part of this psalm directly to Messiah (see Hebrews 1:8–9), revealing its prophetic dimension.

This psalm celebrates not only a royal union, but the reign of a righteous King and the beauty of covenant loyalty.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 45

For the choir director; according to the Shoshannim. A Maskil of the sons of Korah. A Song of Love.

      1My heart overflows with a good theme;
I address my verses to the King;
My tongue is the pen of a ready writer.

      2You are fairer than the sons of men;
Grace is poured upon Your lips;
Therefore God has blessed You forever.

      3Gird Your sword on Your thigh, O Mighty One,
In Your splendor and Your majesty!

      4And in Your majesty ride on victoriously,
For the cause of truth and meekness and righteousness;
Let Your right hand teach You awesome things.

      5Your arrows are sharp;
The peoples fall under You;
Your arrows are in the heart of the King’s enemies.

      6Your throne, O God, is forever and ever;
A scepter of uprightness is the scepter of Your kingdom.

      7You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness;
Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You
With the oil of joy above Your fellows.

      8All Your garments are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia;
Out of ivory palaces stringed instruments have made You glad.

      9Kings’ daughters are among Your noble ladies;
At Your right hand stands the queen in gold from Ophir.

      10Listen, O daughter, give attention and incline your ear:
Forget your people and your father’s house;

      11Then the King will desire your beauty.
Because He is your Lord, bow down to Him.

      12The daughter of Tyre will come with a gift;
The rich among the people will seek your favor.

      13The King’s daughter is all glorious within;
Her clothing is interwoven with gold.

      14She will be led to the King in embroidered work;
The virgins, her companions who follow her,
Will be brought to You.

      15They will be led forth with gladness and rejoicing;
They will enter into the King’s palace.

      16In place of your fathers will be your sons;
You shall make them princes in all the earth.

      17I will cause Your name to be remembered in all generations;
Therefore the peoples will give You thanks forever and ever.

Reflection on Psalm 45:
The psalmist begins with overflow — his heart is stirred with a good theme. He writes not mechanically, but with joy. The King is described as handsome, gracious in speech, mighty in battle, and righteous in rule. His throne is eternal, and justice marks His reign.

These descriptions stretch beyond earthly monarchy. A king whose throne is “forever and ever” and who is addressed as God points forward to a greater fulfillment. This is a picture of Messiah — a righteous ruler whose authority is rooted in truth and humility.

The psalm then turns to the bride. She is called to leave her former identity and cleave to the king. She is adorned in splendor and brought with joy into the royal palace. The imagery is rich with covenant language: devotion, honor, belonging.

In marriage, Psalm 45 celebrates loyalty, honor, and the joy of covenant union. It portrays marriage not as convenience, but as dignity and shared purpose.

Spiritually, it reveals the relationship between Messiah and His people. The King reigns in righteousness, and His bride responds with devotion and beauty shaped by His presence. To belong to this King is to share in His glory and future.

Psalm 45 reminds us that faith is not merely survival — it is celebration. Our King is righteous, eternal, and worthy of praise. And we are invited into covenant with Him.

Application:

  • Rejoice in the righteous reign of Messiah.

  • Honor covenant commitments with dignity and joy.

  • Align your life under the authority of the eternal King.

  • Leave behind former loyalties that compete with devotion to Him.

  • Let your worship overflow from a heart stirred by His beauty.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for the righteous King whose throne is forever. Help me honor You with loyalty, devotion, and joy. Shape my heart to celebrate Your reign and live in covenant faithfulness. May my life reflect the beauty of belonging to You. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Powerful / King of All, Faith / Trusting God, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Revelation, Through Prophets, Visions

The Risen Christ Who Walks With His People (Revelation 1:9-20)

Are you picturing Jesus as distant from your struggles — or standing right in the middle of them?

Key Verse:
“Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades.” —Revelation 1:17–18 NASB

Background Context:
John writes this portion of Revelation while exiled on the island of Patmos because of his faithfulness to the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. Isolated and suffering, John identifies himself not as an authority figure, but as a brother who shares in tribulation, kingdom, and perseverance. On the Lord’s Day, in the midst of hardship, God reveals not a plan first—but a Person.

This vision comes before the letters to the churches and before any correction or warning. God first reveals who Jesus is in His risen glory.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Revelation 1:9-20

The Patmos Vision

      9I, John, your brother and fellow partaker in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance which are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like the sound of a trumpet, 11saying, “Write in a book what you see, and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea.”

      12Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands; 13and in the middle of the lampstands I saw one like a son of man, clothed in a robe reaching to the feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. 14His head and His hair were white like white wool, like snow; and His eyes were like a flame of fire. 15His feet were like burnished bronze, when it has been made to glow in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of many waters. 16In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword; and His face was like the sun shining in its strength.

      17When I saw Him, I fell at His feet like a dead man. And He placed His right hand on me, saying, “Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, 18and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades. 19“Therefore write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after these things. 20“As for the mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.

Reflection on Revelation 1:9–20:
John begins by standing shoulder to shoulder with the churches. He is not removed from their suffering; he is experiencing it. His exile is not a sign of defeat, but of faithfulness. God meets him there.

When John turns to see who is speaking, he encounters a vision of Jesus unlike anything seen during Christ’s earthly ministry. This is the risen and glorified Lord—clothed with authority, radiant with holiness, and overwhelming in presence. Every detail of the description communicates power, purity, judgment, and sovereignty.

Jesus is standing among the lampstands, which He later explains represent the churches. This is deeply significant. Christ is not distant from His people. He is present among them—watchful, active, and engaged.

John’s response is immediate and human: he falls at Jesus’ feet as though dead. Yet the first words Jesus speaks are not words of judgment, but reassurance: “Do not be afraid.” The One who appears in terrifying glory is the same One who offers comfort to His servant.

Jesus declares His authority clearly. He is the First and the Last. He was dead, but now lives forevermore. He holds the keys of death and Hades. Even the greatest fears of the human heart—suffering, persecution, and death—are under His control.

Jesus then gives John the framework for understanding Revelation. What John has seen, what is, and what will take place are all held together by Christ’s sovereign rule. Revelation is not chaos—it is ordered by the authority of Jesus.

Application:

  • Remember Christ’s nearness. He walks among His churches, not away from them.

  • Do not let fear dominate your faith. The risen Christ speaks assurance before instruction.

  • Trust Christ’s authority. Even death itself is under His control.

  • Remain faithful in hardship. God often reveals His glory in seasons of suffering.

  • View history through Christ. What has been, what is, and what will be are all held in His hands.

Closing Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing Yourself as the living and reigning Savior who walks among His people. When fear rises or suffering weighs heavy, help me remember that You are present, victorious, and in control. Strengthen my faith, steady my heart, and help me live faithfully under Your authority. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Core Teaching, Discipline / Correction, Faith / Trusting God, Guide, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God, Purposeful / Intentional, Share the Good News, Study the Word, Submitted / Servant, Teachable

The Great Commission – Personal Discipleship Plan

This teaching is really a core part of our personal walk with Yeshua. Please take the time to read through it prayerfully, even though it may be a bit longer than average.

At Hearing From Jesus, we take the commands of our Lord very seriously and that certainly includes The Great Commission. In fact, it is this command that most directly inspires our ministry. We want to obey Yeshua and make disciples of all the nations.

Besides being the command of our Lord, it is also a natural desire we have in gratitude to Yahweh for His grace and forgiveness and also out of love for other people, who may be headed for eternal separation from Him in hell, unless they hear and study the true word of God.

Matthew 28:16-20

16But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated. 17When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful. 18And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

To learn more about the Great Commission given to us by Yeshua, we recommend you study our teaching, The Great Commission – Make Disciples Of All The Nations, before continuing with this teaching on building a personal discipleship plan.

Whether Hearing From Jesus is a primary source for your personal study and growth with the Lord or just another valuable reference site, we have structured our ministry to help you become a disciple, a learner, of Christ and then to prepare to go and make disciples of others. This last point is important… it should not be our goal to do the absolute minimum we can and still get into Heaven. Those who have this attitude are far from the kingdom of Heaven. Our goal is to grow spiritually to the point that we are feeding ourselves from Yahweh’s word and growing in our relationship with Him from now until we die. It is a journey that we never finish, but it transforms us along the way to become more like our Messiah and less like our old sinful nature. We are to learn well enough to then teach others effectively and help them become disciples as well… so they can , in turn, teach others.

Overwhelming? It can be. So, how do we begin such a task?

Let us begin by studying and then following the example of Yeshua. Likewise, we can review how others, like Paul or Moses or Elijah practiced discipleship. In all the examples I just mentioned, these servants of Yahweh knew the ultimate authority was the Creator, not a religious authority figure or scholars or traditions. We must seek to develop a personal relationship with Yahweh. We must not cling to traditions of men, even if they are taught by religious authority figures. The Pope, like the earthly head of every religion, is quite fallible and what he teaches must be tested against the word of Yah in the Bible. Sadly it often contradicts God’s word. We must test everything against the truth of the scripture and seek Yahweh in prayer consistently. To be a disciple of Christ we must be willing to put Him first, above and before all other parts of our lives and it will be hard. We must lose our own lives in order to find true life with Jesus.

Matthew 10:34-39

34“Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35“For I came to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; 36and a man’s enemies will be the members of his household.

37“He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38“And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. 39“He who has found his life will lose it, and he who has lost his life for My sake will find it.

Yeshua did not attend formal schooling or study at seminary. These things may be helpful, but are not necessary and for most of us, not practical. Yeshua studied the scriptures rigorously and with devotion since He was as child. So knowledgeable was He, that when He was twelve, He was amazing the scholars and teachers of the law.

Luke 2:46-47

46Then, after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. 47And all who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and His answers.

If you are coming to know Yeshua later in life, do not worry. Use the time our Father has given you and get started studying (not just reading) the Bible consistently today. He will reveal much to a devoted disciple through His word. Yeshua’s disciples certainly did not start studying scripture as children but God used them in a mighty way!

Yeshua had a powerful prayer life. Communicating with the Father to receive instruction through prayer is essential to live as an effective disciple. Yeshua did not pray when convenient… when He had time. Yeshua stayed up late and got up early. Consistent prayer is essential to staying submitted to the Father’s will rather than our own. To study more about Yeshua’s prayer life, I recommend reading Experiencing Prayer with Jesus, by Henry and Norman Blackaby.

When it was time for His public ministry to begin, Yeshua found a small set of disciples, or followers. He had an inner circle in which He invested much time (Peter, James, John) and He had a wider group, but still small, that included all twelve disciples. He invested much time in the twelve, but not as much as He invested in the closer circle of three. Yeshua also taught the masses who sought to hear God’s word. He never turned away those who were genuinely seeking the word of God.

We must recognize that Yeshua forced no one to be a disciple or to listen to His message. Instead He choose people as disciples who came enthusiastically and willingly. They were eager to learn and they were not rebelling against Yah, insisting on clutching onto their traditions or their personal lives before meeting Yeshua. They were willing to put Yeshua as a priority above all other things. They left much behind of what they knew to follow Him. Others whom he invited, such as the rich young ruler introduced in Matthew 19:16, could not put him first and thus chose not to follow him.

Yeshua made time for people and demonstrated compassion, but also remained focused on going about doing God’s work. He dealt with mockers appropriately so as not to let them distract Him from getting to those who wanted to hear. Yeshua would reply to those trying to trick Him, but only to provide a teachable moment and an opportunity for them to hear truth and repent, and then He would move on.

In three years He created a team of disciples who could go out and teach others. This is what disciple means… Yeshua does not call us to just remain a “baby” in the faith, needing constant care and feeding. Rather He calls us to be disciples who can learn and teach others to learn. Those others then teach more and there is a multiplying effect that has dramatically impacted the world over the last two thousand years… starting from the humble beginnings of a poor carpenter who taught truth and stood up against the established teachers and scholars of the time and against centuries of traditions of men which were put above the commands of God.

We will briefly comment regarding Moses, Elijah, and Paul but of course you can study and learn more about them by reading the scriptures.

Moses trained judges to be prepared to help meet the needs of the people in order to properly lead such a large number of people. [Exodus 18:17-26]

Elijah invested time to disciple Elisha, who became his successor. [1Kings 19:19-21]

Paul managed his disciples over a wider geography, across many different cities and regions. He taught to crowds, big and small, on his missionary journeys. However, he clearly had a close circle of disciples with whom he traveled and invested significant time and a wider circle of individuals whom he discipled through occasional visits and more frequently through correspondence (e.g. letters).

So… what do we learn from Yeshua and some significant servants of Yahweh? What is a practical way to begin?

We must all begin with study of the scripture and prayer. We must develop a strong personal relationship with the Father. Do not get in a hurry to be the teacher. Yeshua did not start discipling others immediately, he studied from time of child and started with disciples at 30 years old. His disciples spent three years under His instruction and care before going out to disciple others on their own. They maintained a support structure often going out in pairs and coming back to consult with one another.

Most of us need to identify resources and techniques for studying scripture, and possibly find a teacher or disciple who is further on the journey than we are to help lead the way and answer questions. We must learn to feed ourselves with Yah’s help, still listening to the wise, but testing all they teach against scripture.

When you are ready, start seeking those you can invest time and relationship in to come together to study Yah’s word with commitment and devotion. Seek your disciples, without giving up or forsaking your relationship with your teacher or with the Father. Keep feeding yourself and continue on the journey to know, love, and serve Yahweh or you will not be effective in leading others. Even if you do not feel comfortable guiding a Bible study on your own, set up a Bible study anyway. You can use material from our ministry or from other teachers who have already prepared and shared the message of God’s word. Just remember to test everything against the whole of scripture using your own discernment and prayer… as even good teachers have some doctrine incorrect… and some of it quite significant.

After a time, do not rush it, and staying connected to the disciples you study with… each of you perhaps in pairs can also set up separate small groups to disciple others. Invest in more than just Bible study, but in life activities and support one another. Do not tolerate among your disciples those who would tempt you to sloth or to disregard and rebel against God’s word by rationalizing sin or worldly culture as acceptable. Do not tolerate among your close disciples those that refuse to submit to Yahweh and repent of their sin, clinging to their sin nature and refusing to change behaviors to honor God. Follow Jesus’ instructions found in Matthew 18:15-17.

15“If your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have won your brother. 16“But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every fact may be confirmed. 17“If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.

Listen, also, to your fellow disciples when they point out to you your sin… for the wise listen to good advice with thanksgiving and become wiser. A fool despises correction.

Stay focused. Consider writing down a plan for your personal discipleship both as a learner and as a teacher. Review periodically, perhaps a few times a year, to evaluate your progress and commitment to this mission. Pray for our Father’s help frequently… “and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Please reach out to us with questions through our Contact Us page. Our intent is to teach you and support you in becoming a disciple, not just to give you a word from the scriptures daily… though that is a great start.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, please lead me in Your word with wisdom and courage. Help me to develop the passion to pursue the truth and depth of Your word. Give me a humble heart so that I may learn from others, even as I become more mature spiritually. Help also prepare me to lead others and to go forth and make disciples. To You be all the glory and honor. Amen. 

Shalom

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Faith / Trusting God, Father / Yahweh, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God, Salvation, Truth

Faith That Overcomes the World (1 John 5:1-12)

What does it truly mean to overcome the world — is it power, influence, success, or something far deeper?

Key Verse:
“For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world — our faith.” —1 John 5:4 NASB

Background Context:
As John nears the conclusion of his letter, he draws together several key themes: faith, obedience, love, and assurance. He reminds believers that faith in Jesus as the Messiah is not merely intellectual agreement, but the beginning of a transformed life.

John emphasizes that loving God results in obedience to His commandments, which are not burdensome because they flow from a new nature. He then highlights God’s own testimony concerning His Son — a testimony confirmed by the Spirit, the water, and the blood — affirming that eternal life is found only in Jesus Christ.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 John 5:1-12

Overcoming the World

      1Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and whoever loves the Father loves the child born of Him. 2By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and observe His commandments. 3For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome. 4For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.

      5Who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? 6This is the One who came by water and blood, Jesus Christ; not with the water only, but with the water and with the blood. It is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth. 7For there are three that testify: 8the Spirit and the water and the blood; and the three are in agreement. 9If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater; for the testimony of God is this, that He has testified concerning His Son. 10The one who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself; the one who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has given concerning His Son. 11And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life.

Reflection on 1 John 5:1–12:
John begins with identity. Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God. This new birth changes how we relate to God and to others. Love for God naturally produces love for His children, and love for God is expressed through obedience to His commandments.

John is careful to clarify that obedience is not burdensome. This does not mean obedience is effortless, but that it is no longer oppressive. When our hearts are aligned with God, His ways are no longer experienced as chains but as life-giving truth.

John then speaks of victory. Overcoming the world does not mean escaping hardship or dominating culture. It means remaining faithful to God in a world that resists Him. This victory is not achieved by human strength, but through faith — faith rooted in who Jesus is and what He has done.

The testimony John refers to is crucial. Faith is not a blind leap. God Himself has testified about His Son. The Spirit bears witness, confirming truth within believers. The water and the blood point to the historical reality of Jesus’ life, ministry, death, and resurrection. Christianity is grounded in real events, witnessed and recorded.

John draws a clear line: eternal life is found in the Son. To have the Son is to have life; to reject Him is to remain without it. There is no alternative path offered here — only a gracious invitation to trust God’s testimony.

This passage reassures believers that faith, obedience, and assurance are woven together. Our confidence does not rest in our perfection, but in God’s faithful witness and the transforming power of new birth.

Application:

  • Rest in your new identity. You are born of God through faith in Christ.

  • Let love lead to obedience. God’s commandments are life-giving, not oppressive.

  • Understand victory rightly. Overcoming the world means remaining faithful, not avoiding trials.

  • Anchor your faith in truth. God’s testimony is historical, reliable, and Spirit-confirmed.

  • Cling to Christ. Eternal life is found only in the Son.

  • Walk with confidence. Faith produces assurance rooted in God’s promise, not your performance.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for the gift of new life through faith in Your Son. Strengthen my trust in Your testimony and help me walk in obedience born from love, not obligation. Teach me what it truly means to overcome the world by remaining faithful to You. Anchor my confidence in Christ alone, and let my life reflect the victory You have already secured. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Father / Yahweh, Holy / Set Apart, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Repenting from Sin

Set Apart to Live Like Him (1 John 3:1-10)

Have you ever paused to truly consider how astounding it is that God calls you His child — and what that means for how you live?

Key Verse:
“See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are.” —1 John 3:1 NASB

Background Context:
John opens this section with an outburst of worship. He marvels that God does not merely forgive us — He adopts us. We are not simply servants or followers; we are His children. Because of this new identity, the world does not understand us any more than it understood Jesus.

John then connects identity to transformation. When Christ appears, we will be like Him, so even now we purify our lives in anticipation. He contrasts the children of God with the children of the devil, explaining that habitual sin is incompatible with a life born of God.

This passage is not about sinless perfection but about the direction of one’s life — a life shaped by righteousness rather than rebellion.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 John 3 (1-10)

Children of God Love One Another

     1See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. 2Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is. 3And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.

      4Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness. 5You know that He appeared in order to take away sins; and in Him there is no sin. 6No one who abides in Him sins; no one who sins has seen Him or knows Him. 7Little children, make sure no one deceives you; the one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous; 8the one who practices sin is of the devil; for the devil has sinned from the beginning. The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil. 9No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. 10By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor the one who does not love his brother.

Reflection on 1 John 3:1–10:
John begins with awe: “See what great love…” The message is not merely taught; it is exclaimed. Adoption into God’s family is a gift beyond human comprehension. The more we understand it, the more we recognize that our lives must be transformed to reflect our Father.

John reminds us that being God’s child will make us misunderstood in this world. Our values, our priorities, our hopes, and our obedience are different. We belong to a heavenly Father, not an earthly system.

Then he gives a forward-looking promise: “We will be like Him.” Our future glory motivates present purity. Hope in Christ leads naturally to holiness.

John then moves into a strong warning about sin. He speaks plainly: those who practice sin — meaning those who live in it as a pattern, habit, or defining lifestyle — show that they do not belong to God. Not because they struggle, but because they have no desire to change.

He is not describing the believer who stumbles and repents, but the person who is comfortable in sin and unchanged by grace.

John explains why:

  • Jesus came to take away sin.

  • Jesus appeared to destroy the works of the devil.

  • God’s seed — His life — remains in His children.

A transformed identity produces a transformed life.

This passage also reminds us that our faith is not a “blind leap.” It is anchored in the historical reality of Christ’s appearance, His victory over sin, and His ongoing work in those who belong to Him. Our transformation is evidence of His living presence.

Application:

  • Marvel at your identity. Begin each day remembering: “I am a child of God.”

  • Pursue purity. Let the hope of seeing Christ shape your choices today.

  • Examine your habits. Are your patterns consistent with belonging to God or to the world?

  • Do not become comfortable with sin. Repent quickly; cling to Christ’s power to change you.

  • Live as someone set apart. Expect to be misunderstood — your allegiance is heavenly.

  • Anchor your faith in truth. Your walk with God is rooted in real, historical acts of God, not vague spiritual sentiment.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for calling me Your child. Help me never take for granted the love that adopted me into Your family. Purify my heart, transform my habits, and empower me to walk in righteousness. Keep me from becoming comfortable with sin, and strengthen me to live as one who belongs to You. Make my life a testimony to the grace and truth of Your Son. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Father / Yahweh, Holy Spirit / Ruach HaKodesh, Jesus Christ / Yeshua

Yahweh Reveals Himself Through the Holy Trinity

Many struggle to fully understand how one God has chosen to reveal Himself to us in the persons of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Some even fall away from true faith over their lack of understanding in this issue or hesitate to follow Yeshua because of it. Others may simply dismiss it. Blessed are those who accept it on faith and those who study God’s word to gain a clearer understanding of it. Whatever your understanding, scripture is clear… Yahweh reveals Himself to us in three key relationships… that of Yahweh the Father, Yeshua the Son of God, and the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 3:16-18 16After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him, 17and behold, a voice out of the heavens said, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased.”

Matthew 28:18-19 18And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Take note of the importance of the Holy Trinity by its explicit mention by God in both the beginning of Jesus’ public earthly ministry at baptism and the end after He has died and been raised from the dead. The fact that God finds it important to express Himself to us in this way is undeniable. He does not shy away from it. It is front and center and important.

We could do well to conduct a detailed Bible study on each aspect of the trinity, and I encourage you to do so as you read through the Bible and study. I encourage you also to prayerfully ask God to reveal Himself clearly to you. For the purposes of today’s devotion, I will summarize at a high level.

Let me first begin with a simple example that may help remove some of the mystery, and then we will explore Biblical insights into the persons of the Trinity through which God reveals Himself to His people.

Try not to get hung up on someone revealing themselves through three persons. It seems impossible at first but consider even God’s humble people. I am a servant of God. So too am I a husband and a father. Further, I am a neighbor and a citizen of a city and a nation. I am an employee and also a leader. I am a son and a brother. I could go on. I am one person, but through many different roles I reveal myself in different relationships with people I meet. I am the same person, yet the way I act to my children is different in some ways to the way I act to my employer. Each relationship is consistent with the person being revealed, but each may show a different aspect or part of that person. So it is likewise with God.

Also allow for the fact that there may be nothing else exactly like it we can relate to. God is supernatural. Thy physical may help us understand Him, but may not be a perfect match.

God the Father, Yahweh

God the Father is the Creator, the Alpha and Omega… beginning and the end, He is our Father, our Provider, our Protector. He is sovereign. Respect and honor who God is. Take a few moments and be still before God. Contemplate the character of God:

  • The Great I Am
  • Creator of All
  • All Knowing (omniscient)
  • All Powerful (omnipotent)
  • Present In All Places At All Times (omnipresent)
  • The Beginning and the End (Alpha and Omega)

God’s name is to be separated from the world. To do this, we must separate from the world and focus on God. Focus on the Old Testament names for God.

God the Son, Yeshua

The word of God became flesh in the person of Yeshua and dwelt among us. He showed us how to live in relationship with God the Father and our fellow man. He suffered and died and was raised from the dead so our wrongs could be forgiven.

John 1:1-5 1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2He was in the beginning with God. 3All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. 4In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. 5The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.

John 1:14-18 14And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. 15John testified about Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.’” 16For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. 17For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. 18No one has seen God at any time; the only begotten God who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained Him.

John 14:6-11 6Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.

7“If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; from now on you know Him, and have seen Him.”

8Philip said to Him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” 9Jesus said to him, “Have I been so long with you, and yet you have not come to know Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10“Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father is in Me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on My own initiative, but the Father abiding in Me does His works. 11“Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me; otherwise believe because of the works themselves.

God The Holy Spirit, Ruach Chodesh

The Holy Spirit is a helper that God sends for each of us who believe in Him through the person of Jesus Christ and submit our lives to Him. The Spirit represents God living inside of each believer to help comfort, counsel, teach, and guide us.

John 14:16-26 16“I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; 17that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.

18“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. 19“After a little while the world will no longer see Me, but you will see Me; because I live, you will live also. 20“In that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. 21“He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will disclose Myself to him.” 22Judas (not Iscariot) said to Him, “Lord, what then has happened that You are going to disclose Yourself to us and not to the world?” 23Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our abode with him. 24“He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine, but the Father’s who sent Me.

25“These things I have spoken to you while abiding with you. 26“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.

Embrace God’s word and allow God to more fully reveal Himself to you through each of these relationships He has chosen… God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, please help me to more fully understand the mystery of how you reveal yourself, three persons in one. You are one God, but You reveal Yourself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Let me not reject the truth because I do not fully understand it, but rather help me to accept Your word and continue to grow in understanding. Help me not to redefine Your word to fit my understanding, but rather redefine my understanding based on Your word.  Amen. 

Shalom

Devotion by John in service to Christ

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Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Forgive Others / Seek Forgiveness, Guide, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Love, Obeying God, Repenting from Sin

Love Is Proven in Our Walk (1 John 2:1–14)

When you think about your relationship with God, do you ever wonder, “How can I be sure I truly know Him?”

Key Verse:
“The one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.” —1 John 2:6 NASB

Background Context:
John continues his message of assurance, clarity, and spiritual discernment to believers. In 1 John 2:1–14, he comforts the church by reminding them that Jesus Himself is our Advocate before the Father and the atoning sacrifice for our sins. But John also emphasizes that genuine relationship with God produces obedience and love.

He explains that the old commandment — to love — is new in Christ because it is now perfectly revealed in His life, death, and resurrection. John then speaks warmly to different groups within the church (“little children,” “fathers,” and “young men”), reassuring them of their forgiveness, strength, and spiritual triumph through God’s Word.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 John 2:1–14

Christ Is Our Advocate

      1My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; 2and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world.

      3By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; 5but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him: 6the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.

      7Beloved, I am not writing a new commandment to you, but an old commandment which you have had from the beginning; the old commandment is the word which you have heard. 8On the other hand, I am writing a new commandment to you, which is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true Light is already shining. 9The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now. 10The one who loves his brother abides in the Light and there is no cause for stumbling in him. 11But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

      12I am writing to you, little children, because your sins have been forgiven you for His name’s sake. 13I am writing to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I have written to you, children, because you know the Father. 14I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.

Reflection on 1 John 2:1–14:
John begins with tenderness: “My little children, I am writing these things so that you may not sin.” He does not excuse sin — but neither does he leave the believer without hope. When we fall, “we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.”

This is not a sentimental comfort; it is a profound theological truth. Jesus Himself intercedes for us. He stands in our defense on the basis of His righteousness, not ours. His sacrifice is the propitiation — the complete, wrath-satisfying atonement — not only for our sins but for the whole world.

But John does not stop at comfort. He moves to examination. How do we know we truly know God? John gives a simple, searching answer: “By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments.”

Obedience is not the means of salvation but the evidence of genuine relationship. The one who claims to know God while ignoring His commands “is a liar.” The one who walks as Jesus walked shows that God’s love is being perfected in him.

Then John turns to love — the commandment that is both old and new. It is old because it has been God’s will from the beginning; new because Christ displayed it perfectly and empowers us to live it through His Spirit. Love is the distinguishing mark of those who walk in the light. Hatred or contempt toward others reveals darkness, no matter what a person professes.

Finally, John speaks encouragement to all believers. Children are forgiven. Fathers know the Eternal One. Young men have overcome the evil one and are strong because the Word of God abides in them. John’s words remind us that every stage of spiritual growth carries blessing, responsibility, and purpose.

Application:

  • Look to Christ when you sin. He is your Advocate — righteous, faithful, and always interceding for you.

  • Measure your walk honestly. True relationship with God produces obedience to His Word.

  • Walk as Jesus walked. Let His example shape your responses, priorities, and relationships.

  • Love with sincerity. Love is the visible evidence of walking in the light.

  • Let God’s Word abide in you. Strength against temptation flows from Scripture dwelling deeply in your heart.

  • Embrace your stage of spiritual growth. Whether young in faith or seasoned, God has purpose and encouragement for you.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for giving us an Advocate in Yeshua, who intercedes for us with perfect righteousness. Help me to walk in obedience, not as a burden but as evidence of knowing You. Fill my heart with genuine love for others, and let Your Word abide in me with strength and clarity. Teach me to walk as Yeshua walked, relying on Your Spirit every day. In His holy name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.